School Matters 1/22/2024

January 2024

Vol. 12, Issue 2

• Denise Weyenberg, Director of Continuous Improvement, along with Principals Jackie DePeau of Kimberly High School and Rob DeLain of J.R. Gerritts Middle School, and Nurse Katy Dedering, gave a comprehensive update on the District's ATODA programs for students. The team shared valuable insights from student surveys, shedding light on behaviors related to alcohol, drugs, and other substances. The District plans to implement programs that not only effectively prevent but also intervene in alcohol, nicotine, and other drug usage among students, ultimately breaking down barriers to learning. This will be achieved through student programs, education for students, staff, families, and the community, as well as policies and practices aligned with consistent messaging. The District’s goal is to create an environment where students feel a sense of belonging without feeling the need to misuse alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. They explained that the mission extends beyond prevention, empowering students with strategies to confidently say no and engage in other activities. Kick-off events at both J.R. Gerritts and Kimberly High reintroduced the R.O.C.K.S. (Recognizing our Committed Kids to Keep JRG Drug and Alcohol Free) and Promisemakers programs. The events were both well-attended, providing students with opportunities to learn about the dangers and to take a proactive step by signing a pledge to stay drug and alcohol free. Events and activities for students will be held to serve as platforms to reinforce the crucial message and provide support and resources to our students and families. More information on this presentation can be found in Boarddocs.

• Holly Prast, Assistant Superintendent, requested approval of the Open Enrollment Grade Level Caps for the 2024-25 school year. Several factors are used in determining space at each grade level, including predicted move-ins, open building permits, building capacities, socio-economic makeup, academic needs, and the cost/benefit ratio of potential Open Enrollment staffing increases. In addition, Tim Fosshage, Director of Pupil Services recommended that Open Enrollment be closed for all special education programs at all grade levels. The Board approved regular and special education as recommended. Details regarding open enrollment space availability can be found in Boarddocs.
• The Board approved the Boys' Hockey Coop application for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years. The coop enables schools without enough interest in the sport individually, to collectively offer a program for those interested. Schools in the coop include Brillion, Fox Valley Lutheran, Freedom, Kaukauna, Kimberly, Little Chute, New London, Saint Mary Catholic, and Xavier.
• Bob Mayfield, Superintendent, informed the Board of technical changes to policies 1211/3211/4211 - Whistleblower Protection; 2210 - Curriculum Development; and 5461 - Children at Risk of Not Graduating from High School.
• The Board approved retirements for Laura Bockhaus, Third Grade Teacher at Sunrise Elementary, and Richard Lippold, Reading Specialist at Westside Elementary, both effective June 6, 2024.

More information about this meeting, including agendas, approved minutes and policy changes can be found on Boarddocs. For more information about upcoming board meetings, go to the District website.

Upcoming Board Meetings:

February 12, 2024

February 26, 2024

March 11, 2024

Have you reviewed the updated Plan for Excellence? This plan was shaped by you, community members, school district staff, students and families through a series of listening sessions, classroom observations, and surveys. The District’s Plan for Excellence is a five-year plan that outlines our commitment to developing students who are community, college, and career ready. At the heart of our plan lies a commitment to aligning our efforts with the following key objectives: raising achievement and growth, preparing students for career pathways, developing problem solvers, and investing in student wellness. To view the Plan for Excellence in full, please visit bit.ly/plan-for-e. You can also receive a printed copy at any of our School offices or request a copy by calling (920) 788-7900.

In recognition of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, students at each school learned about his life, his impact on the Civil Rights Movement, and his significance to American culture and history. Learning and reflection activities included reading about Dr. King’s life, listening to his speeches, viewing programs about his life and legacy, writing essays reflecting on the themes of his life’s work – such as freedom, justice and equality, and class discussions about his legacy, kindness and respect. During an all-school assembly at J.R. Gerritts, Reverend Charles Butler captivated students and staff with a powerful discussion about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s message, artfully weaving it with our district's core values of kindness, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Events and activities stretched beyond lectures and students were encouraged to participate and engage. Second grade students at Sunrise Elementary took action by collecting items for Pillars Adult and Family Shelter.

Students from kindergarten to fourth grade presented their scientific research at the annual Janssen Elementary Science Fair. Over seven weeks, these budding scientists, working either solo or in pairs, diligently prepared their exhibits. The project-based learning allowed students to explore the scientific method while integrating subjects that sparked their curiosity. The event was a vibrant community affair, with parents, family members, friends, and our dedicated staff playing a pivotal role in guiding and supporting our young researchers. The range of topics presented was impressively diverse, spanning from the explosive wonders of volcanoes to the intriguing realms of robotics, as well as explorations into sound, light, and matter. The enthusiasm of students and visitors alike was easy to see while walking the exhibit floor. Be sure to visit our website, where you'll find a comprehensive photo gallery capturing the highlights of this inspiring event.

Kimberly Area School District
425 S. Washington St
Combined Locks, WI 54113
Phone: (920) 788-7900
Robert S. Mayfield, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Board of Education

Mary Pribbenow, President

Brad Siebers, Vice President

Penny Hoh, Treasurer

Debbie Roberts, Clerk

Kell Bales

Ammie Ebben

Timothy Handrich

About this Publication

School Matters is designed to keep you informed of current news in the Kimberly Area School District. Contact us with questions: (920) 788-7900 kasd@kimberly.k12.wi.us

Nondiscrimination Statement
The Kimberly Area School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, sex, (including gender status, change of sex or gender identity), or physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability ("Protected Classes") in any of its student programs and activities.

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