KPF Newsletter 6/3/26
June 3, 2026
A Note from Dr. Busse
Hello Kenny Families!
We are just catching our breath from the school year, and the planning is already beginning for next year. But as I reflect on the year and look towards my own summer vacation, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to all of you. This has been a bumpy year and I am so honored to get to endure all of the highs and lows with this community. Looking back, I am overwhelmed by the things we have been through. We started this year with the tragedy of the shooting at Annunciation School, the middle of the year was marred by Metro Surge, and then the busiest of Mays. However, we also had some great wins - increases in enrollment, increases in test scores, amazing student performances and academics showcased, more connected community, unity in a whole new way, and even the day-to-day smiles.
This year at Kenny has been a beautiful masterclass in growth, shared leadership, and dedication. Reflection is such a powerful part of the learning process, and when I reflect on the past ten months, several things stand out beautifully:
Academic Excellence: Our test scores have soared and we are already seeing the fruits of our efforts to close the achievement gap. We are so proud of all that the Kenny Students have accomplished.
Community: From the laughter on the playground to the vibrant energy of our school-wide events, the Kenny embraces our school and makes it possible to reach out and support those in need.
Amazing Staff: Thank you to our incredible team of educators, teachers and engineers, and everyone in between. The work that is put in each and every day does not go unnoticed. Thank you for being here for our students!
None of this would be possible without your constant collaboration. Thank you for volunteering, attending events, and trusting us with your brilliant children every single day.
To our 5th Graders and their families: We are so incredibly proud of you. As you transition to middle school, remember that you are a Kenny Kid, and Kenny family! Shine bright, and keep striving for greatness.
I wish you all a safe, restful, and fun-filled summer! Thank you for a great 2025-2026 School Year, and I look forward to seeing all the Kenny Kids in August! You never know, we might run into each other in the neighborhood!
In Partnership and Community,
Dr. Jessica Busse
Principal, Kenny School
Important Dates for Next Year
2026-2027 School Supplies - Sprouts DUE FRIDAY
Yearbook Update
Good news -- this year's yearbook turned out great! Bummer news -- it didn't come home with your student, yet. Due to a new process and delays with the district printer, yearbooks will arrive later than anticipated. But fear not -- they are on their way, and every Kenny Kid will still get a yearbook at no cost. Once the books arrive, you will receive a text and email, which will provide more information about the timing and process for how we'll distribute the yearbooks. Stay tuned, and more soon!
Hoping to have them for Thursday's KNA Event!
Join the Kenny Yearbook team!
Even as we close out this school year, we're already starting to plan for next year's yearbook.
✅ Do you enjoy volunteering but find it’s easier to contribute outside of school hours?
✅ Or, are you often at Kenny and willing to take more photos at lunch, recess, class parties and other fun events?
✅ Are you looking for a fun creative outlet and/or already familiar with Canva?
If any of those sound like you, we’d love to have you on the team! We’re looking for a few more people to commit to ongoing yearbook work from September through Spring Break next year. Email kennyschoolyearbook@gmail.com to sign up!
Spring Carnival - THANK YOU!
Thank you to Krista Miller and Amy Nostdahl on coordinating such a fun spring carnival this year and thank you to everyone who volunteered at the carnival! Krista and Amy's kids are moving on to Anthony next year so we are looking for new carnival coordinators for the 2026-2027 school year! Are you interested in helping plan next year's spring carnival? Please contact volunteer coordinator Tully Jordan at kennyvolunteers@gmail.com.
Kenny Garden Update
Next Garden Cleanup Day is Sunday, June 14
Big thanks to all the Kenny families and neighbors who helped with spring garden clean-up!
Join the Kenny Gardens WhatsApp Community to stay updated on garden gatherings throughout the summer!
Volunteers Needed to Help Water This Summer
Our new veggie, flower, and berry plants on the east side of the school are thirsty and we need volunteers to help water throughout the summer!
Each grade level is assigned a day of the week to check on the garden and water. Weekends are open to any grade level. If it rains, you get a day off. Once we know who is interested in watering we'll send out a separate sign-up for specific date(s), and detailed instructions will be sent to all volunteers!
As a bonus you'll be able to harvest and take home any of the produce that’s ready! Thank you for helping us keep our new garden space beautiful and productive over the summer months!
🎒 Minneapolis Kids: 2026-2027 Before & After School Care
Questions? Visit the Mpls Kids website or email the Program Coordinator, Olivia at olivia.skyberg@mpls.k12.mn.us We’re here to help!
Kenny Ice Cream Social & Green Fair: June 18
STEM & Leadership Summer Camp
Visit Neighborhood Roots Markets This Summer
Quick Links
Have an idea on how the KPF can spend its funds?
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Kenny Contacts
Health Services Assistant / Attendance: Angie McCann, 612-668-3346
School Nurse: Rebecca Richardson
School Social Worker: Nora Beyers
School Psychologist: Kate Wagner
Secretary: Shermane Gatlin-Johnson
Kenny Principal: Dr. Jessica Busse
KPF Board: kennyschool99@gmail.com
Phone: 612-668-3340
School Website: https://kenny.mpschools.org
KPF Website: https://www.thekpf.org
Address: 5720 Emerson Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55419