McDonald News!

Hello McDonald Families,

November is a special time to slow down and think about all the things we’re thankful for. Here at McDonald, we are so grateful for our wonderful students, caring families, and the amazing teachers and staff who make our school such a positive place to learn and grow.

Every day, we see students working hard, showing kindness, and supporting one another. That’s what makes McDonald such a special community. We truly couldn’t do it without your continued support at home — whether it’s helping with homework, attending school events, or simply encouraging your child to do their best.

We know this time of year can get busy, but we hope you find moments to relax, spend time with family, and enjoy the season. Thank you for being such an important part of our school family.

If you ever have questions or concerns, please reach out. We value your partnership and look forward to a wonderful November full of learning and gratitude at McDonald!

Until next month~

Kim Flanders

Principal

McDonald Elementary has been recognized as a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, one of the highest honors a school can receive. This prestigious award highlights schools that demonstrate exemplary high performance, ranking among the top in the state on reading and math assessments.

Only a small number of schools across Nebraska earn this distinction each year. To qualify, schools must maintain consistently high achievement, with every grade level performing within the top 40% on state assessments. McDonald Elementary was specifically honored for its consistent, high, and exemplary achievement, maintaining an excellent state rating since the 2021–22 school year.

On Friday, October 10th, the school held a special assembly to celebrate this incredible accomplishment with students, staff, and families, highlighting the hard work and dedication that made this recognition possible.

The Blue Ribbon designation reflects the efforts of the entire McDonald community — students, teachers, staff, and families — whose commitment, hard work, and support make the school a place where learning thrives. This recognition belongs to all members of the school community, from students who give their best each day to teachers and staff who go above and beyond, and families who provide unwavering support.

November 26th-28th - No School - Thanksgiving Break

December 15th - Music Program at NPHS - K-2 arrive 6:15, 3-5 arrive 7:15

December 16th - PTO Meeting @ 5:30 in the Library, Zoom links available if you are unable to attend!

December 19th - PTO Holiday Stations - We need your help! Signup genius QR code below!

December 22nd- January 2nd - No School - Holiday Break

January 9th 2nd Qtr. Assembly 2:30 p.m.

January 29th - PTO Bingo for books

BINGO for Books Donations Needed!

Help us make sure every McDonald student leaves with a brand-new story to enjoy! The McDonald PTO is collecting new or gently used children’s books for our upcoming BINGO for Books event on January 29th.

This is a great opportunity to clear off your shelves and share the joy of reading with others. Donations can be dropped off at the school office now through November 21st.

Thank you for helping us spread the love of reading, one book at a time!

Please scan the SignupGenius link to help with our Holiday party on December 19th. There are several options to help beginning at 1:00. We couldn't make this day special without you!

We’re creating Grade Level Student Directories to help families connect for playdates and birthday celebrations. Each directory will include student names, parent names, phone numbers, and email addresses.

If you have requested a FERPA restriction, your student’s information will not be included in the directory. (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.)

If you do not wish to have your contact information shared, please notify the school office by November 7th.

Student Directories will be shared through the Rooms App.

If you have not signed up please click this link to sign-up for Rooms. Thank you!

Each month, our students gather for Mustangs Meet, a school-wide event where our 13 House Families—made up of peers from different grade levels—come together to collaborate, learn, and have fun. These monthly meetings give students a chance to build friendships across grades while tackling exciting challenges.

This October, the challenge was the Pumpkin Tower Challenge! Students worked in teams to build the tallest and strongest towers using only pumpkins and toothpicks. Towers had to stand on their own, and teams had 15–20 minutes to design, test, and improve their structures. Many students experimented with different shapes—triangles for strength, cubes for stability—and even tested their towers’ strength with small paper objects.

Mustangs Meet is a wonderful way for students to explore STEM concepts, practice teamwork, and connect with peers across grade levels—all while celebrating creativity and school spirit!

Parent Teacher Conferences were a success! We had 95% of our families attend conferences. We are so thankful to partner with you for your students success! A big shout out to PTO for the dinner Thursday and breakfast Friday! Our staff is so blessed to be supported by you!

Below is the Counseling Corner flyer. Please give it a look!

Here at McDonald Elementary, we are committed to supporting our school community by offering resources and assistance to families in need. Whether it’s clothing, food, ties to local counseling resources, we strive to ensure every student and family has access to the support they need to thrive. If anyone has any questions, please reach out to Mr. Blumanthal!

Behind every successful student is an amazing staff member—this month, we celebrate those everyday heroes in our Bright Spots! Whether it’s a joyful classroom moment or quiet dedication behind the scenes, their impact is felt by everyone.

Please have your student bring or wear tennis shoes everyday for PE. Sandals, crocs and boots are not ideal and create safety issues. Thank you for your help!

Are you looking for things to do with your family or for your student/s? North Platte Public Schools has one place to find events going on in North Platte and the surrounding communities. This will include things like sports signups, camps, kids festivals and so much more. The link will be at the bottom of every monthly newsletter. You will also be able to access it at www.nppsd.org. Check often as we will update and share new opportunities often!

Please join us at 5:30 p.m. in the library for PTO meetings. Zoom links are available if you cannot attend. Each meeting is usually less than 30 minutes. We need help planning family friendly events, supporting our teachers, enhancing the learning environment and encouraging community within the school.

Upcoming Meeting Dates: December 16th, January 13th, March 9th, March 31st, and April 28th

Zoom Link

https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86456466080?pwd=G43NbXxW0zVSmx7tbUKruciehvztYF.1

Meeting ID: 864 5646 6080

Passcode: 1weZf8

Got questions? Feel free to email mcdonald.pto.69101@gmail.com

Officers are:

Kayla Thurman, President

Sage Anderson, VP

Sarah Nichols, Treasurer

Aspen Painter, Secretary

Melissa Robinson, member at large

Stay up to date and join our Facebook Page

Email: kflander@nppsd.org
Website: www.nppsd.org/o/mcdonald
Location: 601 McDonald Road, North Platte, NE, USA
Phone: (308)535-7140
Facebook: facebook.com/McDonaldElem