MPS Elementary Newsletter

All of these dates and more future dates can be found on the school website OR this calendar link- https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0?cid=bWlubmV3YXVrYW4uazEyLm5kLnVzX2RhZHU0ZDR0dHRsNTE2dWllazRqa3FkMzA4QGdyb3VwLmNhbGVuZGFyLmdvb2dsZS5jb20

As part of our school wide goals, we encourage families to come into our classrooms to engage with their child during the school day.

We have had a few parent acitivites this school year thus far.

• Our 4-6 graders played cookies and games with students in their classrooms on December 13th. They had a little over 50% of students who had a family member attend!
• Our kindergarten students in Ms. Morken's class had about 57% of students family members attend while making a gingerbread craft!
• Our 1st grade students in Mrs. Walter's class had 84% of their families attend while making a ginger bread house! See pictures below, provided by Mrs. Walter.

Winter is on its way! Make sure kids dress accordingly to both ride buses and go outside daily.

This is directly from the student handbook:

Students should be dressed according to the weather. Families and students are responsible for ensuring their students are appropriately dressed when they get on the buses. Students will be required to go outside if the weather is above -10 degrees with wind chill. If your child is ill and needs to stay in for a period of more than 5 days a doctor's note excusing them from recess must be provided.

What I prefer students to call me:

How long I have been a teacher: 36 Years

How long I have been teaching at MPS: This is my 2nd year here

When/how is the best time to contact me: The best time to contact me is between 2:10-2:30 by calling the school

What I want to share about my reason for working at MPS: I have had some wonderful teachers growing up who made learning exciting and that is one reason why I went into the teaching profession.

Fun facts about me:

1. I have fun rock hunting with my grandkids.
2. I love traveling with my husband and family.
3. I love reading and crafting.

What I prefer students to call me: Mrs. Ricter

How long I have been a teacher: This is my 35th year.

How long I have been teaching at MPS: This is my 3rd year here!

When/how is the best time to contact me: Contact 8:15-8:45, or 3:25-4:00.

What I want to share about my reason for working at MPS: I feel every child can learn, but not all learn at the same pace. The only way you can get better at anything is by practicing! Read!Read!Read!!

Fun facts about me:

I have 2 children, Rori is a cosmetologist in Bismarck and Gabe is a senior.

I enjoy reading and streaming old T.V. shows.

Spending time with family and friends makes me happy!

The Minnewaukan Elementary Leadership Team, The Buffalo Crew, of seven 5th and 6th grade students meet weekly and plan the school's monthly assemblies that focus on the various Grandfather Teachings and expectations within the school. They also plan monthly activities for the elementary school to participate in. The Buffalo Crew, along with a small group of Junior and Senior students, spent a recent afternoon volunteering at The Hope Center in Devils Lake.

Goal setting is an important skill for elementary-age children because it helps them develop focus, responsibility, and a sense of achievement. By setting clear, attainable goals, children learn how to break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, which fosters problem-solving skills and perseverance. Achieving goals, whether academic, social, or personal, boosts their confidence and encourages a growth mindset, teaching them that effort and persistence lead to success. Additionally, goal setting helps children stay organized, prioritize tasks, and develop a sense of purpose, all of which are essential skills for lifelong learning and personal development.

Organization Goals

• Example: "I will keep my school desk organized for the whole week."
  • Helps children develop a sense of responsibility and organization. By setting small, manageable goals around tidiness, kids can learn to keep their spaces neat and focus on their work.

Emotional Goals

• Example: "I will take three deep breaths when I feel angry or upset."
  • This goal teaches emotional regulation and mindfulness. It gives children a practical tool to manage their feelings, helping them feel more in control and reducing stress.

Chore or Responsibility Goals

• Example: "I will make my bed every morning before school."
  • Setting a simple chore goal helps children take responsibility and contribute to the household. It also instills a sense of accomplishment and independence.

Family Connection Goals

• Example: "I will spend 30 minutes of quality time with my family every weekend."
  • This goal emphasizes the importance of family bonding. It encourages children to create meaningful connections, whether through activities like playing games, talking, or doing projects together.

10. Health and Nutrition Goals

• Example: "I will eat two servings of vegetables every day for the next week."
  • Encourages healthy eating habits and the importance of nutrition. Kids can track their progress and understand how good food choices contribute to overall health.

They will be recognized on the school website and FB page as well as receive a small reward for their accomplishment.

Student engagement staff will look for when nominating a student of the month:

• Good Attendance!
• Completion of Work!
• Collaborates well with peers and staff!
• Follows school expectations!

Check out last months students of the month on our website!

https://www.minnewaukan.k12.nd.us/

Elementary Expectations MPS

Elementary Expectations MPS Videos

Email: mackenzie.moen@minnewaukan.k12.nd.us
Website: https://www.minnewaukan.k12.nd.us/
Location: Minnewaukan Public School
Phone: 701-473-5306
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MinnewaukanSchool