Hello SVE Families!

December is here, and with it, all the excitement and joy of the holiday season! But before we dive into this month's activities, let's take a moment to reflect on the wonderful events and accomplishments from November at Sioux Valley Elementary.

November was packed with memorable moments and opportunities for learning, including:

• High-Fives and Playground Fun with SDSU football players, bringing smiles and energy to our students.
• Girls On The Run (GOTR) end of the season 5K held in SF at Yankton Trail Park.
• Grade Checks for 4th & 5th graders, helping students stay on track with their academic progress.

• The launch of RTI (Response to Intervention) has brought targeted reading support to help our students thrive. Every JK-5 student now receives 30 minutes of focused reading instruction tailored to their individual needs, guided by assessment data and aligned with grade-level standards.

• Title I and BASE Advisory Meetings, along with School Board Meetings, were held to gather valuable parent input and to establish and uphold effective policies.

• Mock Elections took place with Mr. Fast's High School Government class, teaching students about democracy and civic responsibility.

• PLCs and Academic Team Meetings, where our staff worked hard to enhance our students' education.
• Engaging Ancient Civilization Presentations by our 5th graders, showcasing their creativity and knowledge.
• A special dress-rehearsal of the high school play, The Wind in the Willows, enjoyed by our students.
• A heartfelt Veteran's Day Program for the Volga community, honoring those who serve our country.
• Professional Development focused on developing standards-based report cards for grades 1st-5th, aligning with the work already in place for JK and K. More information to come.
• Breakfast with Deputies, strengthening connections between our students and local law enforcement.
• Pep Rallies to celebrate the success of our fall sports teams, including:
  • State High School Football Championship: 2nd in the STATE!
  • State Volleyball Tournament: 6th in the STATE!
• STAAR Club for 3rd-5th graders, supporting academic growth.
• Participation in the AIMS Writing Cohort, where a few of our staff joined teachers statewide to enhance writing instruction.
• Mrs. Duarte’s 3rd Grade Macy’s Day Balloon Parade, a creative and festive classroom activity.
• An SVE Assembly led by our 1st graders, focusing on collaboration and conflict resolution.
• Student Advisory Team Meetings for 3rd-5th graders provided a platform for students to share ideas for improving our school. Discussions included topics such as December Dress-Up days, bus safety, and bringing back the tradition of decorating Valentine’s Day boxes, complete with established expectations.
• A big thank you to Ms. Schnose for creating the heartfelt "THANKFUL for You" notes for all of our SVE families to share with staff. The gesture truly meant "A Latte" to so many! ☕
• And of course, Thanksgiving Break, offering us all time to recharge and reflect.

It’s amazing to see the learning, growth, and sense of community happening at SVE every day. Thank you for your continued support in making our school such a special place. Stay tuned for all the fun and learning December has in store!

The Hiltunen Happenings Newsletters are emailed monthly to our families and added to the SVE Learning HUB on our district website (link above) for you to refer to, when and if needed.🌟

Warm regards,

Mrs. Heather Hiltunen

SVE Principal

(Photo: Left to right-Crystal Niemann (Administrative Assistant), Heather Hiltunen (SVE Principal), and Tiffany Thompson (Medical Office Assistant).

Join us on Friday, December 13, for an afternoon of musical delight featuring our JK-3 students! Performances will take place in the Performing Arts Center (PAC):

• JK-1 Concert: 2:00–2:30 PM
• 2nd & 3rd Grade Concert: 2:45–3:15 PM

Please allow time for concertgoers to transition between performances by waiting in the foyer of the PAC.

Can’t make it in person? No problem! The concerts will be streamed LIVE on our SVE Facebook page. Be sure to join and/or share the page at Sioux Valley Elementary Facebook.

Please park in the lot south of the PAC. After their performances, all students will return to their classrooms and follow the regular dismissal schedule and procedures. We look forward to seeing you there—whether in person or online!

Our Title I Interventionist is Mrs. Bezdichek.

In this month's newsletter, Mrs. Bezdichek explores the connection between reading and spelling, focusing on how the speech-to-print approach supports spelling multisyllabic words. Just like decoding words in reading, spelling relies on understanding sound-symbol relationships. By breaking words into syllables and sounds, students can learn to spell more effectively. Mrs. Bez shares a step-by-step process for supporting multisyllable spelling strategies, helping students connect phonemes (sounds) to graphemes (letters). As students gain proficiency, they’ll be able to spell more automatically. This approach is simple to implement and can be used across any classroom setting to support literacy development. For a deeper look, check out Mrs. Bezdichek's December newsletter!

Hello December! In December, we are continuing our collaboration focus along with adding in problem-solving skills.

Teaching problem-solving to children is essential for their cognitive, emotional, and social development. Here are some key reasons why it is important:

1. Critical Thinking Development

Problem-solving helps children develop critical thinking skills, enabling them to assess situations, analyze options, and make informed decisions. It encourages them to think logically, weigh pros and cons, and understand cause-and-effect relationships, which are essential for academic success and daily life.

2. Independence and Confidence

When children learn to solve problems on their own, they become more independent and self-reliant. Successfully navigating challenges builds their confidence and resilience, teaching them that they are capable of overcoming obstacles. This self-assurance helps them face future difficulties with a positive attitude.

3. Creativity and Innovation

Problem-solving encourages creativity. Children learn to approach problems from different angles and think outside the box. This fosters innovation and imagination, skills that are highly valuable not only in education but also in future careers and real-world situations.

4. Emotional Regulation

Problem-solving teaches children how to manage frustration, disappointment, and stress when things don't go as planned. They learn that setbacks are a natural part of the process and that persistence is key. This helps them develop emotional resilience and coping mechanisms that will serve them throughout their lives.

5. Collaboration and Social Skills (this was a lot of November's conversations and will be continued)

When children are encouraged to solve problems in group settings, they develop teamwork and communication skills. They learn how to collaborate, listen to others' ideas, negotiate, and compromise. These interpersonal skills are crucial for building healthy relationships both inside and outside of school.

6. Preparation for Real-World Challenges

Problem-solving prepares children for the challenges they will face in everyday life and in their future careers. The ability to approach problems systematically and find effective solutions is a critical skill in the workforce and in personal decision-making.

7. Instilling a Growth Mindset - (we will dive more into growth mindset in January)

Teaching problem-solving encourages children to adopt a growth mindset—the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. By experiencing and reflecting on the problem-solving process, children learn that making mistakes is a part of learning, and they become more open to challenges.

8. Enhancing Academic Performance

Problem-solving skills directly contribute to better performance in subjects like math, science, and even language arts, where reasoning, analysis, and strategic thinking are required. Children who master problem-solving can transfer these skills across disciplines, making them more effective learners.

Fostering independence, creativity, resilience, and a sense of empowerment to our students help our staff reach our vision and mission statements.

Vision statement: Sioux Valley Elementary's highest priority is to guarantee all Cossacks will reach their highest potential.

Mission statement: At Sioux Valley Elementary, Cossacks will feel safe and supported in a positive learning community. A culture of collaboration will be felt by all stakeholders: Students, Staff, Parents/Guardians, & Community Members.

These 8 points listed above are all foundational to becoming effective, adaptable, and confident individuals.

I will continue to send out resources as needed/when the month is over. Thank you all for your continued support. Happy Holidays! :)

Click the title above to explore "Kid Whisperer Nation Tips for Parents" from Scott Ervin on building strong relationships with students, sharing control, and promoting positive behaviors. All current Sioux Valley staff have been trained in-person by Mr. Ervin, which is why we’ve introduced classroom names, Delayed Learning Opportunities (DLOs), explicit teaching strategies, "Nows & Laters," greetings at the door, and more! These techniques help create a supportive and positive learning environment for all students. You might also find these techniques helpful at home—our hope is that your children will carry over what they are learning at school into everyday life. THIS MONTH'S TIPS: MAKE YOUR KID A SUPERHERO, ALLOW YOUR KIDS TO FAIL, PUT THE FORGOTTEN HOMEWORK DOWN, ALLOW YOUR KIDS TO LIVE A STORY, and WHATEVER YOU WANT TO DO IS FINE.

November 2024 Behavior Referrals Overview

At Sioux Valley Elementary, we remain committed to understanding and addressing student behavior trends to foster a positive learning environment. Here's a detailed breakdown of behavior data for November 2024:

Referrals by Behavior

• The most common behavior leading to referrals was disruption, with over 80 incidents recorded in November.
• Disrespect and inappropriate physical contact also continued to be significant contributors, each accounting for approximately 70-75 referrals.
• Defiance and physical aggression saw a slight decrease compared to October, indicating progress in these areas.

Referrals by Location

• Classrooms remain the primary location for referrals, with around 160 incidents, highlighting the need for continued classroom management strategies and daily reminders given.
• The playground accounted for roughly 100 referrals, a slight increase compared to October, despite additional supervision measures.
• Other areas, such as the cafeteria and hallways, saw fewer incidents, reflecting improvements in these locations.

Average Referrals Per Day by Month

• November's daily average referrals decreased to approximately 6 per day, compared to October’s peak of 7 per day. This indicates a gradual improvement in overall student behavior as we approach the winter months.

Steps We’re Taking to Support Positive Behavior

1. Classroom Strategies: Teachers are incorporating more proactive classroom management techniques, including positive reinforcement and conflict resolution activities.
2. Playground Supervision: We’ve added another supervisor to the playground during recess to address and prevent inappropriate behavior in real time.
3. Positive Behavior Interventions: We’re emphasizing Sioux Valley's "Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe" principles through monthly student assemblies and classroom activities.
4. Social-Emotional Learning: Guidance lessons are being used to teach students how to handle conflicts and express their emotions appropriately.
5. We are developing a Check-In/Check-Out (CICO) program to support students who may need additional structure and encouragement to meet behavioral expectations. CICO is a targeted intervention designed to help students set daily goals, receive positive feedback, and reflect on their progress. Each day begins with a check-in where students review their goals with a trusted adult, and it ends with a check-out to celebrate successes and discuss areas for improvement. This program not only helps students stay accountable but also strengthens relationships with staff members, fostering a sense of connection and belonging. By focusing on consistent support and encouragement, the CICO program helps students build the skills they need to thrive academically and socially.

How Families Can Support Positive Behavior

We value the partnership between home and school in fostering respectful and responsible behavior. Here are ways you can help:

1. Set Clear Expectations: Reinforce Sioux Valley’s rules—be kind and avoid causing problems for others.
2. Model Positive Behavior: Children learn by example, so demonstrate patience, respect, and conflict resolution at home.
3. Praise Positive Choices: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s efforts to follow rules, show kindness, and stay calm in difficult situations.
4. Stay Connected: Regularly communicate with your child’s teacher to align on strategies and address concerns collaboratively.
5. Teach Self-Regulation: Help your child practice calming strategies, like deep breathing or counting, when they feel upset.

Thank You for Your Support!

We’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and engaging learning environment for all students. Together, we can continue to build a strong foundation for positive behavior and student success at Sioux Valley Elementary.

Feel free to share any feedback or suggestions with us as we move forward in this effort!

Lunchroom and Recess Times:

• Lunchroom Times:

  • JK-2: 10:50-11:30
  • 3rd-5th: 11:35-12:05

• Recess Times:

  • JK-3: 9:30-9:45
  • JK-2: 11:15-11:45
  • 3rd-5th: 11:55-12:35

Note: Recess times for 3rd-5th graders may vary on Wednesdays.

If you are available to help one day, several days a week, or even just once a month, please let your child's teacher know. We would love to have you join us as a volunteer!

We are excited to introduce Dawn Parker, BSN, RN, a seasoned healthcare professional who brings a wealth of experience and compassion to our community. Dawn is in her 18th year as a Registered Nurse and has spent the majority of her career in the fast-paced environment of Emergency Departments. Her impressive background also includes serving as a summer camp nurse and a school contact tracer. Dawn earned her nursing degree at California State University of San Bernardino.

Originally from sunny Southern California, Dawn made Volga her home two years ago and has been working in the Brookings Health System Emergency Department ever since. She is passionate about nursing and will be an integral role in overseeing our certified medication aides, including Tiffany Thompson, Crystal Niemann, Nikki Moir, Karen Steege, Karna Adler, and Heather Hiltunen. Dawn’s leadership and support ensure the highest standards of care for our school community.

Outside of her professional life, she and her significant other have a blended family with five children, whose ages range from 17 to 24. Dawn enjoys traveling, crafting, gardening, and caring for her beloved chickens. She has fallen in love with South Dakota and is proud to call Volga her new home.

We are grateful for the dedication and expertise Dawn brings to our team and our community. Her commitment to excellence and her mentorship of our certified medication aides make her an invaluable asset to all of us. Please join us in welcoming Dawn and celebrating her many contributions!

When your child is ill, has a doctor’s appointment, is going to be with you on family business, or will be absent for other reasons, please contact the school before 8:50 a.m. If we do not hear from you, we will make every attempt to call you at home or work to make sure your child is safe. A written excuse sent with a sibling is necessary unless parents have called the school beforehand. Please note that if your primary students have a change in dismissal routine, a note or a call to the office or teacher is needed before1:00PM, if possible.

For the protection of your children, no student is permitted to leave the school at any time during the school hours without permission from the office. Students should call their parents from a school phone and/or on their cell phone (if they have one) with permission of a staff member and with the staff member present.

Parents desiring early dismissal for students with appointments should send a note of explanation to their child’s teacher or call the elementary office prior to dismissal. Students will be released only to parents, guardians, or other authorized persons registering at the office.

If the student becomes ill during the day, the school administrative assistant or the principal will contact the parents and a designated adult will pick the student up at the office.

We prefer a phone call or email to the elementary office as teachers are busy teaching and may not be able to check email and/or to take the time to let the office know. It is important for the office to know so we can make sure attendance is recording correctly and to be aware of the whereabouts of all students.

As part of our ongoing efforts to keep our Lost & Found organized, any unclaimed clothing and other items will be donated on the last Friday of each month. We kindly ask for your cooperation in labeling your child’s belongings to help ensure they are returned if lost. Recently, we made our third donation of one large bag of clothing and water bottles to the Brookings Area Goodwill. We already have a handful of hats, gloves/mittens, and boots that have been left behind by his/her owner. 😮

December 11-NO STAAR CLUB/Homework Help for students in 3rd-5th

December 11-Staff Christmas Gathering

December 13-Holiday Concerts at the Performing Arts Center (PAC)

JK-1 Concert at 2-2:30pm

2nd & 3rd Concert at 2:45-3:15pm

December 13-SV PTO KIDS NIGHT EVENT (see poster)

December 20-End of 2nd Quarter

December 20-Holiday Parties & 1:45 Dismissal

December 23-January 3-Christmas Break

January 6-School Resumes. Welcome back.

January 6-17-Middle of the Year (MOY) DIBELS Assessments for all JK-5 students

January 6-SVE Assembly 2:45 (Cossack Gym)

January 8-STAAR CLUB/Homework Help for students in 3rd-5th

January 9-Breakfast with Deputies

January 15-STAAR CLUB/Homework Help for students in 3rd-5th

January 17-NO SCHOOL for STUDENTS. Professional Development Day for Staff

January 20-NO SCHOOL (Martin Luther King Jr Day)

January 22-STAAR CLUB/Homework Help for students in 3rd-5th

January 23-RTI MOY Start Date

January 30-SVE Assembly 2:45 (Cossack Gym)

Remaining 2024-2025 Elementary Concert Dates:

April 14-5th Grade Music & Band Concert. 7pm. Cossack Gym.

April 28-4th Grade Spring Music Concert. 6pm. Cossack Gym.

🌟 Shout-Out to Mrs. Jaclyn Roach! 🌟

We’re thrilled to celebrate Mrs. Jaclyn Roach, one of our amazing 1st-grade teachers, for being recognized by a fellow team member! She was nominated for always being "willing to lend a helping hand."

Mrs. Roach's kindness, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to her students and colleagues make her a true asset to our SVE family. Thank you, Mrs. Roach, for everything you do to make our school a better place! 👏💙

Thank you, Mrs. Jaclyn Roach, for being a part of someone's "Marigold Moment" at SVE! 🌟

It seems this month has been quiet on the question front. If you’ve got something you’re wondering about, don’t be shy! Shoot me an email, and I’ll make sure to tackle your question in next month’s newsletter.