Roadrunner News
Riverside Elementary School
Principal Note
March is a month of momentum at Riverside. While the weather may still be deciding whether it is winter or spring, inside our classrooms there is no question — learning is in full bloom. I continue to be inspired every day by our students’ resilience, curiosity, and determination.
This time of year is important academically. Students are building upon everything they have learned since August, stretching their thinking, and showing growth in reading, writing, and math. Growth does not happen overnight — it happens through daily effort, small goals, and perseverance. That is exactly what we are seeing from our Roadrunners.
We are also preparing for the upcoming Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP). While assessments are one measure of learning, what makes me most proud is the confidence our students are building. They are learning how to approach challenges calmly, think critically, and do their personal best. You can support your child by encouraging a positive mindset, maintaining routines, and reminding them that effort matters most.
Attendance remains one of our biggest priorities. Each school day provides essential instruction, collaboration, and connection. When students are here consistently, they feel confident, prepared, and part of something special. Thank you for making school attendance a priority whenever possible.
Have a wonderful month!
One Book, One School Event
Riverside kicked off our One Book, One School event when K-5 students get to read a book together! Our book this year is "The World According to Humphrey." Each family received a copy of the book, along with a schedule for reading. Each night the families enjoy a chapter together. Students have multiple opportunities to answer trivia questions throughout the day and earn prizes. There are some fun activities to go along with the book! We encourage you to read with your child and talk about the chapters. Thanks for helping us partner with your child to promote reading!
Spring Conferences
Our spring conferences will take place on Tuesday, March 24th from 4-8pm and Thursday, March 26th from 8am-4pm. The link to sign up will go LIVE on Monday, March 9th. A message will be sent out to access sign-up information. There will be NO School for students on March 26 and 27th.
Scholastic Book Fair
Our annual Book Fair will take place at Riverside in the library March 23-26th. Students can bring money to school and purchase or stop in to visit during conferences!
Weather
We are approaching that time of year when the weather gets nicer, but temperatures are still chilly in the mornings. Please send coats with your child each day as we are outside in the mornings above 15 degrees. These are temperatures that the sweatshirt does not help students stay warm. It's better to have that extra layer just in case! Bring on spring!
Did you know that it is important for students to develop good sleep routines early? Getting a proper night's rest is crucial for a child's healthy growth, immune function, and emotional and behavioral development. Students who are exhausted at school are more likely to be cranky, impatient, and do poorly in school.
According to the National Sleep Foundation (2025), students should avoid electronics before bed and find time to calm before sleep. See below when are appropriate bedtimes for students.
Attendance MATTERS!
With second semester beginning this month, ALL students missed days began at 0. If students are missing lengthy amounts, there are protocols in place.
5 days; (call from principal)
10 days; (meeting with principal)
13 days; (school engagement meeting downtown)
20 days; (student becomes truant and is referred to the county attorney)
Each school day begins at 8:30AM (unless weather permitting) and attendance is taken shortly after. Each TARDY adds up on student attendance. We encourage students to join walk/talk on the playground or come in for breakfast before 8:30am. Being tardy and leaving early add up on attendance.
Thank you to sharing your students with Riverside. If your student is going to be absent, kindly share with your teacher and the office ahead of the school day by email, call, or Talking Points. This way we prevent having to make calls. If students are going to be gone multiple days, you can send one message to cover the time.
Most classrooms begin the day with Character Strong and building relationships through social emotional learning. If your child is late, they miss these opportunities to interact.
Thank you for partnering with us to allow students all the experiences at Riverside!
End of 3rd Quarter
We are approaching the last few weeks of 3rd quarter on March 20th. Hard to believe! Report cards will come home on April 1st.
SPRING Pictures!
ALL students will have their spring pictures taken on March 13th. Parents do not need to send any orders in beforehand. Each student will receive ordering information after pictures are taken. Pictures are not required to purchase. Get those smiles ready!
Kindergarten Registration
Riverside will hold Kindergarten Registration on April 8th. Current kindergarteners will NOT have school that day. If you have a child that turns 5 by beginning of September to register, call the office at 712-279-6811.
Snack Cart
WOW! The snack cart has been a HIT with students! We appreciate all the support and are excitied to use profits on more student opportunities and classroom resources. Starting the new year, we will only be doing the snack cart on TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS prior to dismissal. Thanks again for all the support!
Cell Phone Protocol
The District has cell phone protocols in place to ensure an engaging and distraction-free environment for our students. The protocols restrict the use of electronic devices during the school day. For more information, please review the 2025-2026 Parent/Guardian & Student Handbook on the District website.
Get To Know Your Child's Social Media
Do the terms Snap map, private account, or ghost mode sound familiar? If you answered no, you are not alone. Many families are unfamiliar with these social media terms and others. The District website offers information for parents on the most popular social media platforms and tips for keeping kids safe online. Information is available on the District’s website.