G-A Superintendent Newsletter
May EDITION
Note from Dr. Newton -Rams Finish Strong!
Dear Ram Families,
It’s hard to believe we are nearing the end of another school year. This season always brings a mix of reflection and anticipation, and I want to take a moment to thank you for being such an important part of our Ram community.
Throughout the year, we’ve seen incredible growth in our students—not just academically, but in their confidence, character, and connections with one another. From early learning milestones to senior celebrations, each step forward is a reminder of what we can accomplish together. Our classrooms, stages, fields, and community spaces have been filled with energy, perseverance, and pride.
As we head into these final weeks, our focus remains on finishing strong. Daily attendance continues to matter—even on half days—and every moment of learning counts. Let’s continue to support one another, stay engaged, and take pride in all that we’ve achieved together.
I would also like to extend a special congratulations to our graduating seniors. You have made a lasting impact on our schools, and we are excited to see where your path leads next. As you graduation from this RAMventure to the next adventure!
To our staff, thank you for the dedication, care, and professionalism you bring each day. You make a difference in ways that go far beyond the classroom. As Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week approaches (May 4–8), we invite our families to join us in celebrating the people who give so much to our students.
And to our families, thank you for your continued partnership and trust. Your support strengthens our schools and helps create the positive, connected environment we value so deeply.
Let’s make these last weeks meaningful, memorable, and full of Ram pride.
My Best,
Dr. Lindsey Newton
Action needed for Transportation for 26-27
What we need from you is to enter your transportation information into PowerSchool -Form K- before the end of the school year. Just a heads up for the beginning of the school year, if addresses aren't added by Aug 8th transportation will not be availabe for the first week of school. It's important to get your information updated this Spring so we can be proactive and ahead of all conflicts.
Caitlyn Noteboom
Nominated by Mr. Blyveis
Caitlyn consistently goes above and beyond on every assignment. She is always the first to volunteer to help both her teachers and her classmates, often without even being asked. She brings a positive attitude every day, always smiling and finding the good in every situation. Caitlyn is a true model student and strong leader and consistently sets a great example for others. In group work, she helps bring others up to her level, encouraging them to do their best. Her presentation skills have grown tremendously, and she confidently shares her ideas with her peers. Caitlyn’s kindness, leadership, and positivity make her someone others look up to every day.
Alex Brownell
Nominated by Community Member: Krystal Hubbard
I’d like to take a moment to recognize a student who shows up every day with kindness, compassion, and respect. He’s the kind of student who helps without being asked, who includes others when it would be easier not to, and who treats people with genuine care. Alex is consistently good to others, is polite, respectful, and has great matters. Alex has been observed stepping in during a moment when a classmate was overwhelmed, calmly helping him work through it with patience and understanding well beyond his years. These may seem like small actions, but they have made a huge difference. Alex reminds us that character matters, and that the way we treat others can have a lasting impact. For all of these reasons, he truly deserves to be recognized.
Adelyn Baker
Nominated by Mrs. Meyers
Addy is a highly motivated learner who consistently seeks out challenges and pushes herself to grow. She takes pride in following directions, doing things the right way, and putting forth her best effort in everything she does. She naturally leads by example and strives to be a positive role model for others, even in moments when those around her may not be making the best choices. Her strong work ethic, curiosity, and commitment to learning has set her apart, and she contributes to a positive and focused classroom environment every day.
Kendall Dolph
Nominated by Mrs. Boniface
Kendall is an excellent reader and achieved a very high score on her Acadience and NWEA tests.Kendall is a bright, kind, and helpful student! She is always willing to lend a hand to others. She especially looks out for one of her classmates. She assists her with tasks on a daily basis, without even being asked. She helps her with her work, helps her clean up, helps her put on her recess gear, and helps with anything else this student may need. Kendall is a great role model for other students. I can always count on her to follow the rules and directions. Kendall is a shining example of the G-A Ram Fam spirit!
Kira Nawrocki
Nominated by Mrs. Walker
Kira is a high-achieving student who takes her studies and responsibilities seriously. She is always looking for ways to improve and grow. She is dependable, responsible, and naturally steps into leadership roles whenever she can.Kira consistently shows kindness to everyone around her. She is patient with others and treats people with respect, even when they may be different from her. It is truly inspiring to see the way she chooses the high road and leads with grace.She is someone who cares deeply about others and her community believing that all people deserve kindness and respect, and she lives that belief every day. Her positivity is contagious, and she encourages those around her to stand up for others and spread kindness at all times—not just when it’s easy.Kira is a true example of what it means to be a RAM.
Nate Ellis
Nominated by Mrs. Ellis
Nate has been incredibly helpful throughout the entire year. Even during the summer, while we were preparing for the new school year, he stepped up to help deliver curriculum to classrooms and get the building ready to open.He has helped move furniture during classroom changes and continues to support our custodial staff whenever they need an extra hand. Mrs. Dawn often stops by just to share her appreciation for how much Nate helps her throughout the day.In the mornings, before heading to his CTE class, Nate is always ready to pitch in. During count time, he helped collect teacher signatures to make sure packets were completed each week.No matter the situation—even at the last minute—Nate is always willing to help. He has even jumped into the Rammy costume countless times to support school events.Nate is truly selfless and always puts others first. We are so grateful for everything he does.
Rainey Butcher
Nominated by Sarah Baker
It is a pleasure to nominate Rainey for the Superintendent’s Award, as her transition to high school has been nothing short of exemplary. Since arriving on campus, Rainey has demonstrated remarkable academic dedication, concluding her first semester with an impressive 3.1 GPA. Beyond the numbers, her personal growth has been profound; she has navigated the shift from middle school with grace, maturing into a student who is not only thriving socially but also honing the vital coping skills necessary for long-term success. Rainey has truly found her voice, confidently advocating for her own needs while maintaining a positive, respectful rapport with the faculty. Her ability to build meaningful connections with staff and her openness to receiving direction and correction with a growth mindset distinguish her as a leader among her peers. Rainey is a shining example of resilience and achievement, and she is deeply deserving of this recognition.
Gunner Emery
Nominated by Brooke Hall
Ms. Hall nominated Gunner Emery. Any goal he is given, he doesn’t just meet—he surpasses it. He is a role model to his classmates, showing what hard work and determination looks like every day. Gunner is always willing to take on a challenge and gives his best effort in everything he does. During small group time, he has been observed lifting up a struggling classmate with patience and encouragement. Gunner has a gentle soul and a very kind heart. Outside of the classroom, he stays active by playing many sports. He is currently playing baseball, and in the fall, he wrestles and plays football. He also enjoys hunting.Gunner is someone who leads by example, and we are proud of all he has accomplished.
Galesburg-Augusta Inspirational Alumni Award 2026
Thank you to the committee for this wonderful honor of alumni in our district
- Linda Mezo Carlton
- Linda was nominated by her daughter, Laurie Zuidema Thurman.
- Shana Schmidt Wiese
- Shana was nominated by Kathryn Dooley
- Pete VanVranken
- Pete was nominated by Bruce Rolfe.
- David Frank
- David was nominated by Barbara Eldridge Henry. Barbara was not able to join us today - the award was presented by Ardis Cook. Mr. Frank was unable to attend the ceremony today - Donna Adams spoke on behalf of Mr. Frank.
Shana Wiese
Pete VanVranken
Linda Carlton
David Frank
G-AIAA Recipients 2026
G-AIAA Committee 2026
First Grade Pirate Day!
Arrrrrr! The first grade classes celebrated Pirate Day On Wednesday, March 25 as a fun, educational way to practice the “ar” sound!
Many children dressed in costumes, hats, bandanas, eye-patches, mustaches, and hook hands. Students practiced reading and writing “ar” words during a classroom treasure hunt, ate some “Pirate’s Booty” for a snack, listened to wonderful pirate stories, and much more!
Reading Buddy Volunteers!
We are incredibly grateful for the support of our young Reading Rams! These dedicated community members volunteered an average of 6.5 hours each week, helping our students grow their skills and develop a love of reading.
We would like to recognize and thank:
Elizabeth E.
Jackie S.C.
Joy C.
Joyce H.
Karen W.
Katie L.
Lara J.
Lauren A.
Linda D.
Megan L.
Teri R.
Tiffany M.
Your time, care, and commitment make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students. Thank you for being such an important part of our Reading Rams community!
Hall of Fame
Our April Hall of Fame winners are: Kayden Makowski, Herschel Dohm, and Layla Scott!!!
The Hall of Fame award recognizes outstanding student work and kindness shown to others. Congratulations!!!
GA Foundation Grant:
A huge THANK YOU to the G-A Foundation Grant for funding two wiggle seats for our Speech and Language students!I These seats help the students focus during their sessions with Mrs. Wells. It really is amazing what a little movement can do for students’ attention and motivation!
Freshman Honors Geometry
Senior Ceiling TIles Tradition
Our Big Ram/Little Rams
