November - Clarion - Goldfield

Clarion-Goldfield
and Dows
Cowboy Chronicles
Community School Districts
November 2013
From the Desk of the Superintendent Dr. Robert Olson
Certified Enrollment Up
Both districts experienced
increases in certified enrollment.
Certified enrollment includes all
resident students in a school
district, no matter where they
attend school.
It not only
includes students who attend
school in their home district, but
also those attending educational
programs outside of the district.
Students attending schools
outside of the district include
open enrollment, whole grade
sharing and tuitioned out to other
schools.
This year, the certified enrollment
in the Dows District increased
by 14.7 students, while ClarionGoldfield grew by 12.9 students.
Enrollment is determined on
October 1st, not based on
Average
Daily
Attendance
(ADA), used by other states.
Although the Dows enrollment
growth was larger than ClarionGoldfield and that is great, three
families representing 9 students
were no longer a part of the
district shortly after the count
day. Clarion-Goldfield also had
families move into the district
after count day (not the same
families).
Student enrollment is an
important factor in determining
school funding. The number of
students in a school district is
multiplied by the state cost per
student in the state aid formula.
This year, Clarion-Goldfield’s
Regular Program District Cost
per student is $6,135. It is
anticipated that the District Cost
per student will exceed $6,200
next year, the first year of the
reorganized district.
BEDS Enrollment
In addition to certified enrollment,
BEDS
(Basic
Educational
Data Survey) Enrollment is
also counted on the first day
of October.
This enrollment
figure is different than certified
enrollment. BEDS represents the
students educated in the resident
district, no matter where they
live. This includes all resident
students, open enrollment in,
and students tuitioned in. This
enrollment figure in grades 9-11,
is used in the determination of
athletic classes. For example,
Clarion-Goldfield is a 2A school
in football and volleyball. This
makes sense, considering all
who attend school are potential
athletes.
Open enrollment in compared
to open enrollment out is very
similar in Clarion-Goldfield.
This October, there were 46
students open enrolled out, with
47 students open enrolled in.
Dows on the other hand, has 16
students open enrolled out and
no students open enrolling in.
This is up three students from
last year.
Revenue Purpose Statement
There will be one item to be
determined by district patrons
of the newly reorganized
Clarion-Goldfield-Dows CSD at
a special election February 4,
2014. This question identifies
district intentions for using the
one-cent sales tax revenue.
The district plans to use the onecent for uses allowable for the
Physical Plant and Equipment
Levy (PPEL) and the Public
Education and Recreation Levy
(PERL). The levy is also used to
“pay down” bond issue debt, and
lowering the amount generated
by property tax.
HS Parking Lot
Work in the HS Parking Lot is
scheduled to begin this summer.
Engineers
of
the
school
district and City of Clarion are
coordinating efforts to address
issues associated with the
parking lot and the housing
project planned east and south
of the high school parking lot. It
is hoped that advertising for bids
will be solicited at the same time
as to take advantage of bidders
being more aggressive by taking
advantage of an economy of
scale.
See a complete list of
sporting events on the
school website
cargold.org
Snow Days?
Snow? Really? Can we be
talking about snow already? Well
in Iowa, when we have snow in
May and October this past year,
snow happens when you least
expect it.
Decisions to have school or call
it off isn’t always easy, especially
when the Clarion-Goldfield and
Dows School Districts include 350
square miles and driving from the
northwest corner to the southeast
corner of the districts will roll up
about 54 miles on the odometer.
We are used to being teased
about letting school out too often,
but when in doubt, let them out.
Some decisions are easy. If
the National Weather Service
(NOAA) declares a winter storm
warning or a blizzard warning, we
don’t have school. The liability of
having inexperienced drivers on
the road, often with nothing more
than a light jacket is too great. We
aren’t meteorologists, but when
those who are tell us something
nasty is imminent, we don’t argue.
We also consider the needs of
parents who must make child care
arrangements when school is not
in session, especially with late
starts and early dismissals. That
is why, whenever possible late
starts are announced the evening
before or early dismissals are
declared by 1:00pm.
When you hear, “Is school
called off again?”, remember it
is being done with the safety of
our students and staff in mind.
We would much prefer making
a mistake on the side of safety
rather than being caught with
school buildings full of students
waiting the storm out, or even
worse, a student in the ditch ill
equipped for the bitterly cold of an
Iowa snowstorm.
Weather Related
Announcements
The districts do their best to
inform the public of weather
related changes in schedules
and events. Clarion-Goldfield
and Dows utilize a number of
media outlets to keep our staff
and district patrons informed.
Some of these outlets provide
notification services anytime
schools of interest change their
plans for school and school
related events.
One such outlet is called Iowa
Alerts. When a school notice
is sent out, you can receive
an e-mail at home, work, or on
e-mail-enabled mobile devices
like cell phones and PDAs. To
signup, go online to https://
schoolalerts.iowa.gov/.
The district will continue to use
KQWC, KJYL, KLMJ, WHO,
KCCI, WOI, KAAL, KHBT, KIMT,
KIOW, KWMT, and KKEZ,
but you may wish to consider
using this or other notification
alerts to keep up with the latest
developments.
Instructional Support Levy
The Clarion-Goldfield-Dows
Transition Board is conducting
a public hearing on Monday,
November 11th, at 7:30pm. This
hearing is conducted to provide
an opportunity to ask questions
and express their support or
opposition to continuing to utilize
an Instructional Support Levy
(ISL).
The Board plans to utilize the
resolution process rather than
taking the issue to the public.
This limits the duration of the
levy to five years, rather than the
maximum ten years allowed by
voting. This is the process the
Dows School District has utilized
every time the ISL was renewed.
Although the Clarion-GoldfieldDows CSD may decide to
utilize the voting method in the
future, it was considered more
expedient to use the resolution.
Another aspect of the ISL is the
decision not to utilize the surtax,
used for years in the ClarionGoldfield CSD. All the revenue
will be generated by property
tax. Again, this has been the
practice of the Dows CSD and
it is proposed to continue this
in the Clarion-Goldfield-Dows
CSD.
Air Conditioning the
Elementary & Middle
Schools
The Clarion-Goldfield CSD
had authorized a study by
Struxture Architects, Inc., to
determine options and costs
associated with air conditioning
the elementary and middle
school buildings in Clarion.
After the brutal heat this fall
and district patrons expressing
interest in fundraising for air
conditioning, it was determined
that air conditioning these
buildings would require more
time and study to accomplish
in the midst of the heat wave.
The district will be presented
with three options for air
conditioning
for
these
buildings. Advantages and
disadvantages
of
each
options and associated cost
projections will be included in
this report. More information
will be shared with the public
as it becomes available.
Transition Board
Transition Board Directors have been
determined and will be responsible
for making decisions in preparation
for the newly reorganized ClarionGoldfield-Dows Community School
District (CGD CSD). Some of the
decisions being made by this body
have been identified in this issue of
the newsletter, but there are more
to come. The districts will keep the
public informed of these decisions,
as they are determined.
So what do the school boards of the
Clarion-Goldfield and Dows School
Districts do in the final year being
separate districts? It is easiest to
consider these boards focusing on
the here-and-now and the Transition
Board focused on the future.
We want to thank our school board
members of both districts and the
Transition Board. These individuals
who are focused on providing
the best possible educational
experience for their students,
have been instrumental in sharing
their vision for the future while
addressing issues needing attention
in the current year. Listed below are
members of the respective school
boards. If you get an opportunity,
thank them for their hard work and
looking out for the well-being of our
students.
Clarion-Goldfield School Board:
Clint Middleton-President, Beth
Severson-Vice President, Beth
Jackson, Dr. Tim Nagel, and Missy
Schultz.
Dows
School
Board:
Marty
Osterman-President, Kristi HinkleVice President, Betty Ellis, Cindy
Ingebritsen, and Corey Jacobsen.
Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Transition
Board: Clint Middleton-President,
Beth Severson-Vice President,
Corey Jacobsen, Beth Jackson,
and Missy Schultz.
October Assembly
Committee – Mrs. Jensen, Mrs. Cero, Mrs. Thompson and Mrs.
Staples
The K – 5 assembly for October was a zoo program by Kathy
McKee of Blank Park Zoo. Kathy brought an armadillo, a tortoise, a duck, and a boa constrictor to show the students. She
talked about responsible behaviors in learning to care for these
animals. She also explained how the zoo acquired these animals and about their natural habitats.
The students had a chance at the end to touch the snake and
the tortoise and get a close up look at these animals. Check out
these pictures of the great program we enjoyed!
Geothermal Energy Tour
5th grade science, By Tanja Jensen
On Friday, September 27th the 5th grade classes walked to the
high school for a tour of our geothermal energy facilities led by
Dr. Olson, superintendent of the district. Dr. Olson explained how
geothermal energy is used in our district and the positive aspects
of geothermal energy.
The students enjoyed this informative tour that correlates with
their current science unit.
“THE WIZARD OF OZ”
(Cast List)
Dorothy Gale…………………………………………………........................................….Elizabeth Lockwood
Hunk/Scarecrow………………………………………………….....................................………Colten Langfitt
Hickory/Tinman………………………………………………….….......................................….Kirby Simmons
Zeke/Cowardly Lion………………………………..………………......................................…Michael McHale
Auntie Em……………………………………………………..…………......................................Amanda Nerem
Uncle Henry…………………………………..……………………….....................................…….Trenton Sann
Glinda (The Good Witch)………………………………………......................................….Mikaela Livengood
Miss Gultch/Wicked Witch………………………………………..........................................Jamiin Braadland
Professor MarvelWizardOz……………………………...............................................................Evan Ulven
Toto……………………………………………………………………........................................…...Cierra Milner
Guard……………………………………………………………….….…..........................................Brody Studer
Mayor of Oz…………………………………………………………...............................................Dustin Weist
Munchkin (Barrister)…………………………………………………….........................................Frances Kem
Munchkin (Coroner)…………………………………….……….....................................................Jenna Kraft
City Fathers………………………………………………........................................…..Matt Magee, Zach Frye
Munchkin (Teachers)…………………...........................................................Taylor Kruger, Taylor Hagie
Munchkin.(Three Tots)…………….....................................…Breckie Clark, Taylor Kruger, Taylor Hagie
Munchkin (Three Tough Kids)...........................Jenalee Hinkle, Jordan Hennigar, Emma Konvalinka
Munchkin (Braggart)……………...……………………......................................………………….Josie Nelson
Winkie General………………………………………………………..............................................Jacob Harvey
Winkies……………………….....................................…………………………..….Trenton Sann, Jossie Sann
Trees……………………….....................................………….Celeste Swanson, Megan Hoing, Jossie Sann
Crows………………………....................................…...Amanda Nerem, Kennedy Goodell, Kaylie Bricker
Nikko (Monkey Commander)………………………....................................…………..……….Ryan Basinger
Rikko (Second in Command)…………………………….....................................…………..Jesus Marroquin
Monkeys………………………………………….…….......................................Evan Ulven, Emma Konvalink
MUNCHKINS: Breckie Clark, Alejandra Delacruz, Shelby Engh, Kaitlynn Fields, Chloe Johnson, Selena
Johnson, Daniela Landeros, Kaitlin Osier, Mayra Perez,Sarah Rasmussen, Paeten Schultz, Tabetha
Waller,
OZIANS: Mekenzie Alberts, Brittany Boeset, Kaylie Bricker, Claire Davis, Jordan Dietz, Samantha
Feller, Cheyanne Fleener, Melisa Fregoso, Alexis Harrington, Megan Hoing, Ana Johnson, Kenzie
Kolb, Samantha Nerem, Shilpa Reddy, Rilley Ring-Foss, Jossie Sann, Trenton Sann, Lydia Schroeder,
Eveie Sherman, Celeste Swanson, Lilian Swanson, Hannah Terhark, Sydney Terhark, Megan Zwiefel
POPPIES: All Munchkins and Ozians
Keyboard/Synthesizer…………………………….....................................………………Monte Leichsenring
Drums………………………………………………………….....................................…………....Michael EnTin
Stage Director………………………………………………...……....................................….Kennedy Goodell
Special Effects…………………………………………………….....................................……....Jon Ahrendsen
Choreographer…………………………………………………….......................................………Nikki Conlon
Artistic Director………………………………………………….....................................….……Lori Lea Carlon
Drama Director…………………………………………….…….....................................…………Tamara EnTin
Musical Director…………………………………………………......................................…….David Ackerman
Middle School students were treated to a wonderful presentation on October 16th. V.J. Smith,
author of "The Richest Man in Town," spent the morning with our our students setting the
stage about the book, sharing stories, and introducing all of us to "Marty!"
Marty was Walmart cashier for many years and lived by the motto:
"Relationships matter most", "Only you can make you happy", and "Try to do a little more".
Students and staff will be reading the short story throughout the month of November.
1:30 Dismissal
November 6, 22, 25, 26
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Monday, 25th 3:00-8:00
Tuesday, 26th 3:00-6:00
Algona Band Festival
Our Local
Heroes
by Renee Holmes
Kindergarten
The Dows Elementary School students visited
the Dows Fire Station on Friday, October 11th.
Firemen Luke, Matt, and Dave gave a tour of
the facilities and equipment. Luke showed the
fire trucks. Matt dressed up in full gear and
explained the equipment. Dave taught about
the stop, drop, and roll procedure and had students demonstrate. The firemen even gave
each student a goody bag. We are thankful for
our firemen and appreciate the volunteer work
they do for our community.
Preschool students enjoy Fire Safety
Week with a trip to the Fire Station
with Mr. Simmons and Sonia Vinsand
Dows First Graders
visited the Apple
Orchard
Eating it is
even better
Yum Yum
Making Pie
is Fun
Pumpkin People
By Mrs. Cero
Creative fifth grade students had fun turning ordinary pumpkins into unique characters during
their fall festival. A lot of imagination went into
designing and creating these “pumpkin people.”
Elementary students voted for their favorites.
These were the winning characters: First place
winner was “Kevin the Minion” created by Peyen
Rasmussen, Kylie Greenfield, and Kaeden Langfitt. Second place honors went to “Brody the Fox”
created by Trenton Jergenson, Morgan Middleton, and Alaina Friesleben. Third place went to
“Makala Rose Hope assembled by Noah Dewey,
Karen Acabel, and Alexis Gardalen. Congratulations to these students and all of the fifth grade
participants!
Using the beautiful
Red Maple tree as an
Autumn backdrop,
the Dows 1st graders
display one of the
two newly installed
STOP signs that help
keep them safe!
Five Sentence Paragraph
with Mrs. March
Learning to write a basic paragraph is a key tool
for fourth graders. In writing class the students have Do You Have Health Insurance?
been learning a strategy for writing paragraphs. We The Affordable Care Act (ACA) begins on
have been writing paragraphs in writing and reading January 1, 2014. The Healthcare Marketplace
to respond to a question by writing a paragraph. The began open enrolling on October 1 and will
st
five-step process begins with writing a main idea end March 31 . To find out whether or not you
sentence that rephrases the question. The next will have to pay for insurance or you might be
step is to provide three details that support the main exempt go to www.healthcare.gov and read
idea. Finally a conclusion sentence is added. The about this program. Heathcare.gov takes you
conclusion sentence basically rephrases the main through the steps and explains all the rules. You
can also “chat” with someone live on the site if
idea sentence.
In writing classes each were given a question that you cannot find the answers you need.
stemmed from our Scholastic News Magazine. The After you have been on the healthcare.gov site
first question was, “Should zoos be closed?” and and get logged into the system, Iowa Specialty
the second question was “Should parents be fined Hospitals has certified application counselors
if their child is a bully?” The students voiced their if you need further assistance. Call the Clarion
opinions with supporting details in the response or Belmond hospital number and ask if further
assistance is needed.
written in a paragraph form.
“LILA”
By Mrs. Carpenter & Mrs. Voigts
Students in Mrs. Carpenter’s 4-year old preschool classes have a fun pet in the science area. The
students in the morning class found a big bug outside at recess in September. We caught the bug and
brought it inside to our science center. We learned that the bug is a giant waterbug. The students
named it, “Lila, the Waterbug”. Students have been watching Lila move, using magnifying glasses to
see what she looks like, drawing pictures of Lila, and making a class book about Lila.
The Art Show will be set up in the cafeteria all day Friday and prior to the
Musical performance both Friday and
Saturday beginning at 6:00pm
New Spotlights And New Cordless Microphones For
"Wizard Of Oz"
Mr. Ackerman and Mrs. EnTin are pleased to announce
that new spotlights and new cordless microphones have
been purchased for this year's musical. It has been several years since the school has purchased spotlights and
"The Wizard of Oz" demands lots of color on stage. The
new spotlights can run 7 different colors: red, green, purple, pink, blue, red, and yellow. This should add much
variety to the musical, and everyone knows you have to
have green for "The Wizard of Oz."
As for the cordless microphones, this has been something they have talked about for a number of years. In
the past, the school has rented them from a company in
Minneapolis. However, they thought it was time that the
school purchased their own so they could use them more
frequently. “We have other tricks up our sleeve as well,
but we can't discuss it or it would ruin the show,” said Ackerman.
Remember to mark your calendars now for "The Wizard
of Oz" musical presented by the Clarion-Goldfield High
School Vocal Music Department on Friday, Nov. 8, and
Saturday, Nov. 9, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets will be available at
the door. $6 - Adults and $4 - Students. Passes cannot
be honored at this event.
EnTin Joins Ackerman to Direct “The Wizard of Oz” CGHS Musical
Tamara EnTin, special education level 2 and 3 strategist, has joined David Ackerman, 6-12 vocal music instructor, to direct the high school production “The Wizard of Oz.” Mrs. EnTin is the drama director
while Mr. Ackerman is the music director.
“I asked Tamara to direct the drama portion because she will be directing the high school play in the
spring. I also thought this might be a good introduction into the high school drama position. So far,
things have been going great. The students respond to Mrs. EnTin, and she has a great sense of humor,” said Ackerman.
EnTin stated, “ “I have enjoyed my time with the students, and I appreciate their enthusiasm.”
Mrs. Carlon, high school art teacher, has supervised the painting of the set. Some of her high school
art students and Mrs. Carlon have been painting the backdrop for the Kansas prairie and the Emerald
City. They have also painted haunted trees and different Oz set pieces. Nikki Conlon, dancing instructor, has worked with choreography for the Munchkins and the Ozians.
It takes several people with different talents to present a musical of this magnitude. This promises
to be a great night of entertainment for Clarion, Goldfield, Dows, and other surrounding communities.
They hope to see entire families in the audience.
Ticket prices for the musical are $6 for adults and $4 for students. Tickets can be purchased at the
door. Passes cannot be honored at this event. Because of rental/royalty charges, costume rental, and
set construction, a musical can become a very costly production. The high school students have put in
several hours of rehearsal to make this an outstanding show. Mr. Ackerman and the students are very
excited about the “Wizard of Oz.” Please put these dates on your calendar and plan on attending this
wonderful musical.
The musical will be presented Friday, Nov. 8, and Saturday, Nov. 9, at 7:00 p.m. The Clarion-Goldfield
Music Boosters plan to serve refreshments during the intermission.
CGHS Chorus Student Selected to the All-State Chorus
Elizabeth Lockwood, a senior from Clarion-Goldfield High School,
has been selected as a member of the 2013 All-State Chorus. On
Saturday, Oct. 26, three high school vocal students from CGHS auditioned in Hampton for the All-State Chorus: Elizabeth Lockwood,
Amanda Nerem, and Claire Davis.
Amanda and Claire were auditioning for the very first time while
Elizabeth had auditioned for the last three years. Last year, Elizabeth Lockwood and Laura Franzmeier were recalled. However, this
year, Elizabeth was accepted on the first list. She was not recalled,
which means she didn’t have to audition again. “I am very proud of
all three girls. Auditioning for All-State is a very scary thing,” commented David Ackerman, CGHS vocal music instructor. All auditions are A Cappella (no accompaniment), and the director cannot
be in the room. Michael McHale, a junior at C-GHS, gave pitches
from the piano. After Michael gave the pitch, it was the singer’s responsibility to set the tempo, secure
the pitch, and count every beat.
The All-State Concert is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 23, at 7:30 p.m. in Hilton Coliseum in Ames.
600 vocalists from across Iowa are chosen every year to be a member of the All-State Chorus. Tickets
went on sale Monday, Oct. 28, at 10:00 a.m. All tickets may be purchased through ticketmaster.com.
Elizabeth joins a distinguished list of All-State Chorus members from Clarion-Goldfield High School:
Sarah Chipman, Paul Maxheimer, Eric Alberts, and Kelly Huisinga. This list covers 1994-2013. Elizabeth Lockwood is the daughter of Lee and Tammy Lockwood.
Music Notes.................
North Central District Honor Choir at NIACC
On Friday, November 15th, the North Central District of
Iowa will host its annual honor choir festival at NIACC
in Mason City. There will be four honor choirs at the
festival: 7th/8th grade girls’ choir, 7th/8th grade boys’
choir, 9th/10th grade mixed choir, and a choir consisting
of high school students who auditioned for the All-State
Chorus. The students will rehearse their songs during
the day on Friday and present a concert in the NIACC
gym at 7:00 p.m. Admission will be charged for the concert. Approximately 600 students will participate in this
honor choir event.
7th/8th Grade Girls’ Honor Choir
Sidney Cross, MaKenzie Goodell, Cheyenne Harle,
Amaya Watne, Abby Kraft, Haley Nerem, Gemma Pohlman, and Emily Rasmussen
7th/8th Grade Boys’ Honor Choir
Christian Dames, Isaac Romero, Carter Dietz, Alec Martin, and Max Powers
9th Grade Mixed Honor Choir
Kennedy Goodell, Jordan Hennigar, Cierra Milner, Lydia
Schroeder, Paeten Schultz, Briannan Purcell, Shilpa
Reddy, Tabetha Waller, Mekenzie Alberts, Brittany Bo-
eset, Kaylie Bricker, Chelsie Dow, Kaitlynn Fields, Akira Harrington, Emma Konvalinka, Samantha Nerem,
Eveie Sherman, Brian Dean, Zach Frye, Jordan Dietz
10th-12th Grade Mixed Honor Choir
Elizabeth Lockwood, Amanda Nerem, Claire Davis
Middle School Select Choir Auditions
On Monday, November 18th, Mr. Ackerman will hold
auditions for the middle school select choir at 7:30
a.m. in the middle school music room. Any 6th, 7th,
or 8th grade student who is currently enrolled in chorus may audition for this group. Rehearsals are EVERY Monday and Wednesday (7:30-8:15 a.m.) This
choir will sing at the March and May middle school
concerts.
High School Select Choir Auditions
On Tuesday, November 19th, Mr. Ackerman will hold
auditions for the high school select choir at 7:30 a.m.
in the high school chorus room. Any 9th,10th, 11th, or
12th grade student who is currently enrolled in chorus
may audition for this group. Rehearsals are EVERY
Tuesday and Friday (7:30-8:15 a.m.) This choir will
sing at the March and May high school concerts.
BALLS, BALLS, BALLS!
Mrs. Carpenter & Mrs. Voigts
Students in Mrs. Carpenter’s 4-year old preschool class had a Ball Unit. The students enjoyed learning
about balls. We talked about: What is a ball? What are the different types of balls? What are balls
made of? Who uses balls to do their job? Tom Simmons, recreation department director, came into
our classroom and talked to the students about his job. He showed the students different kinds of balls
that he uses for his job such as soccer balls, basketballs, and footballs. Thank you, Tom, for coming
to our classroom and talking to our students.
FIRE SAFETY
Mrs. Carpenter & Mrs. Kreitlow
In October, the students in 4-year old preschool learned about Fire Safety. We learned: STOP-DROPROLL, Don’t Play with Matches, Crawl Low Under Smoke, Have Two Ways to Get Out, and Know
Where Your Meeting Place Is. The students learned to call 9-1-1 if there is an emergency.
At the conclusion of our Fire Safety Unit, the students went on a Field Trip to the Clarion Fire Station.
The firefighters talked about fire safety, showed the students the fire trucks, assisted them in climbing
on the trucks, and squirted the water hose. The firefighter put on his firefighter clothes to show the
students what firemen look like. Our visit to the fire station was a great learning experience. Thank you
very much to the Clarion Firefighters for teaching us about Fire Safety on our visit to the fire station.
A BIG Thank You to all 2013-14 Donors Adopt A Classroom
Dennis & Kris Mraz, Donald & Darlene Borel, Charles & Joan Gangestad, Sam, Darrin & Tabitha Waller, Hearts & Flowers, BETA SIGMA PHI, Blake Greenfield Chevrolet Buick, Preppy Farmer, Herb Billman, Marla Miller, Tony & Renee
Holmes, AAUW, Alfred & Donna Johnson, Jay & Daphne Pogge, Marys & Marthas,Royal Neighbors of America, Wright
County Monitor, Denny & Mary March, Sumners Insurance Agency, Tom & Nikki Conlon, CGHS Dance Team, Merlin &
Jackie Loux, Troy & Dawn Schultz, grounded, Wright County Land Title, Sams Chinese Kitchen, Sebby Ag Services, Inc,
First State Bank/Town & Country Insurance, Paradigm Benefits-Bob Powers & Rod Brooks, Mister G’s,Dr. Pamela Kelch,
Clarion Super Foods, Security Savings Bank, First Citizens National Bank, Alesha Sigmeth Roberts, Esq, Fancy That
Catering, Bill & Carla Kem, Bernard & Marjorie Roskamp, Bob & Donna Bartholomaus, Urness Hardware & Appliance,
The Klaver Family,Tricia Rosendahl, Steve & Michelle Haberman, Fran & Tami Brownell, Brian & Michelle Harle, Lindsey
& Belva German, Al & Pam Winter, The Legleiter Family, Chris & Brenda Carpenter, Terry & Melissa Hackley, Paul & Julie Nesheim, Rod & Shannon Brooks Family, Jake & Karianne Johnson & Family, Robert & Ronda Schaffer, Main Street
Style & Tanning, Scott & Melinda Anderson, Ennis Corp., Clint & Mandi Middleton, Brian & Tanja Jensen, That Iowa Girl,
Kathy Lester, Snack Village/Barb Tanner, Hagie Manufacturing Company, Pizza Ranch, In Memory of Christopher Robert
Testino, Murray Wise Associates, LLC, Zoetis Products Eagle Grove, Monsanto Clarion Iowa, Joel & Carol Sebby, Clarion
Hardware Hank, Dwight & Roberta Tew, Bruce D. Frink CPA, Denny & Missy Schultz, James & Karen Weld, Bob & Edie
Eaton, The Hair Studio, Shirley Ann Stecher, Elizabeth Lyons, Jean Wilson/Paeton & Brandon Schultz, Wright County
Motors, Margaret Sumners, Bob & Bonita Harle, Lois Lesher, Bessie Ritter, Clarion Goldfield Girl Scouts, Granny’s Mixing Bowl-Dawn Hamilton, Holmes Lutheran Church Women, Daisys on Main/The Print Shop, Carol Towsend, Chappy’s
on Main, Suzanne Deimerly, Dan Kraft trucking Inc./ Dan & Deanna Kraft, Envy Salon by Brittany, Dewayne & Mary
Knoshaug, Richard & Judy Pletcher, Thrifty White Pharmacy, Alice Espe, Roger & Kay Brooks, Maurice & Gladys Riley,
Bob & Jo Anne Olson, Farm Bureau Financial Services-Trent Adams, Wendell Mayes – Beth Menges,The Meadows Independent Living Clarion, Dennis & Jane McGrath, Arnold & Mary Cook, Dwight & Patty Sann, Drs. Snively & Gildner, Doris Orcutt, Goldfield Veterinary Clinic, Lowell & Elma Lynch, Bruce & Shirley Wigans, Gary & Syl Funnell, Duane & Staci
Schnittjer, Verle & Pam Tate, Brinton Bordwell & Johnson
Your generous donations are greatly appreciated as we were able to give a gift of $86.27 to each teacher at the ClarionGoldfield School – to be used for classroom and student needs. Thank you for your donations TAP (Teachers & Parents)
Kindergarten Eye Checks
A big thank you goes out to Dr. Gildner and his staff for
graciously taking over the kindergarten eye checks from Dr.
Snively who retired. We truly appreciate your generousity.
The children enjoyed learning about the eye as they
waited their turn for the exam. They made a class graph
of eye color and discussed which color of eyes each class
had the most of. Mrs. Gildner read books, shared with us
the size of the largest eye, played a matching game with
us and even had a game where we had to identify who’s
eyes were hiding behind the curtain. Dr. Gildner and staff
presented the children with a goody bag that included
sunglasses and more information for parents. If you see
him or members of his staff please thank him for donating
his time and expertise to our students!!!!
Elementary Enlightener
By: Tricia Rosendahl
October 6th – 12th was Fire Safety Week and once again the Clarion Volunteer Fire Department did an
outstanding job helping us practice safety. A group of firemen came to the school to watch and help
us practice a fire drill. We were able to exit the building quickly, quietly and safely. A few firemen also
took time out of their day to offer tours of the Fire Station, trucks and equipment to all our preschool
and Prep-Kindergarten classes. Look for another article listing the winners of the poster contest the
firemen sponsor each year. Thank you to the Firemen for all their extra time and efforts. We appreciate
all they do!
I am sure most of you have been hearing about Make A Difference Day/Week throughout our community.
The elementary is excited to say each and every grade level participated in one way or another. Take
a look at what we did:
3-year old preschool: Made fall decorations for display at an business uptown
4-year old preschool: Wrote thank you notes to custodians, secretaries and bus drivers
Prep Kindergarten: Made monster cookies and leave thank you notes for firemen, police and EMT’s in
our town
Kindergarten: Made placemats for the upcoming Community Thanksgiving dinner
1st Grade: Made placemats for the upcoming Community Thanksgiving dinner and helped clean the
football field area
2nd Grade: Collected gently used stuffed animals to give to DSOAC
3rd Grade: Worked with 1st grade to clean the football field area
4th Grade: Made homemade greeting cards for the residents at the Meadows
5th Grade: Took a bucket of books and read with younger students in our school
We are proud of our students and staff for finding ways to Make a Difference in a way that young
children can for others. If we can fill a bucket so can you!
As I close I want to remind each and every parent that Parent-Teacher Conferences will be coming
towards the end of November. They will take place on November 25th and 26th. Watch for appointment
times to come home real soon. We strive for 100% attendance in the elementary and are proud to say
we were able to accomplish that the last couple years. Please help us make it possible again this year!
Remember, there will be NO School on Wednesday, November 27th – Friday, November 29th due to
Thanksgiving break. See you back in school on Monday, December 2nd.
Have a great month and a very Happy Thanksgiving!
Fire Safety Week Poster Contest
Congratulations to the following students who participated in and were selected as winners in the
Clarion Fire Department’s poster contest during Fire Safety week. We appreciate all the work
and collaboration done by the Fire Department at all times throughout the year.
Kindergarten:
1st place – Jennifer Ramirez – Miss Helton’s class
2nd place – Claire Kirstein – Mrs. Haberman’s class
3rd place – Morgan Goodell – Mrs. Askelsen’s class
1st Grade:
1st place – Delaney DeHate – Mrs. Simmons-Bailey’s class
2nd place – Elliot Ennis – Mrs. Thurn’s class
3rd place – Carly Jones – Miss Warner’s class
2nd Grade:
1st place – Nick Sisson – Mrs. Dodds’ class
2nd place – Sawyer Morrical – Mrs. Cramer’s class
3rd place – Pixie Hart – Mrs. Middleton’s class
3rd Grade:
1st place – Kennedy Trca – Mrs. Smith’s class
2nd place - Monica Arroyo – Miss Odland’s class
3rd place – Mackenna Hasty – Mr. Lienemann’s class
4th Grade:
1st place – Lillian Fulk – Mrs. March’s class
2nd place – Brooke Askelsen – Mrs. Wicks’ class
3rd place – Delia Swanson – Miss Jones’s class
5th Grade:
1st place – Raven Kinnetz – Mrs. Cero’s class
2nd place – Gavin Wilson – Mrs.Thompson’s class
3rd place – Natalie Kirstein – Mrs. Jensen’s class
Thanks to the Music Boosters AGAIN!
By Mrs. McGlynn
It’s been like Christmas in the Music Room, thanks to the CG Music Boosters! Last month, I shared the
good news that the Music Boosters had purchased two more sets of Resonator Bells for the elementary.
There’s more good news from this Awesome Group of Music Supporters! The elementary music room
now has two bass bars, C and G to add to the barred instruments that students Prep K – 5 are able to
play. In addition, we also were gifted with a music magazine, Music Express, that studies music from
different eras and venues, shares Listening Tours with Luigi, allows for music to be downloaded for our
Apple Tvs, introduces a musician that students often know, and offers rhythm and pitch practices. In
addition, the elementary is enjoying
the series, “Freddie the Frog” which
has a book for each grade level,
rhythm cards and CD’s that tie all
activities together. The students
have so many opportunities to
experience all kinds of music in an
engaging style. With the use of the
Apple TV and a computer/IPAD,
students are having lots of fun each
day! But they are learning by leaps
and bounds! Thanks again to this
great group of music supporters. If
you are interested in being a member
of Music Boosters, contact Lynette
Smith at the Elementary or Brenda
Kapka.
School Meal Calendars Available on the School Website
The breakfast and lunch menus for the Clarion-Goldfield Community School District are available on the
school’s website at www.clargold.org. Click on the Calendars link on the left side of the Home Page and
then select “School Lunch” or “School Breakfast.”
Meal Assistance Applications
May Be Filed At Any Time
During the School Year
The Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are rapidly
approaching. While the holidays can be a wonderful
time of the year, they can also bring additional financial stress for some families.
So we would like to remind you that applications
for Free or Reduced Price meal assistance may be
filed at any time during the school year. The eligibility guidelines are sometimes surprising…a family of
four, for example, with annual gross earnings under
$43,568 is eligible for Reduced-Price (30¢ for breakfast and 40¢ for lunch) meals. This is a significant
savings on the regular meal prices.
The meal status of students who participate in the
Free and Reduced Price Meal Program is strictly
confidential and has absolutely no impact on meal
choices.
Iowa Eligibility Applications are available on the Clarion-Goldfield school website at www.clargold.org;
they are also available at the Elementary, Middle
School, High School and District offices from 8:00
a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
If you have questions about your household’s meal
status for the 2013-2014 school year or about the Iowa
Free and Reduced Price Meal Program, please call
Kris Mraz at the High School office at 515-532-2895
from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Do You Know Your Family’s
School Meal Account Balance?
The first quarter of the 2013-2014 school year is
done, and it may again be time to add money to your
family’s school meal account. Parents can check
their account balances through the student information system (JMS) on the school’s website at www.
clargold.org or they may call one of the building secretaries.
If you’re having trouble keeping track of your account
balance, the following cost guidelines may help:
Weekly
Regular-pay:
Reduced-pay:
Monthly
Regular-pay:
Reduced-pay:
Breakfast
All Grades
Lunch
Elementary
Middle & High School
Breakfast
All Grades
Lunch
Elementary
Middle & High School
$6.75
$1.50
$27.00
$6.00
$9.00
$2.00
$36.00
$8.00
$9.50
$2.00
$38.00
$8.00
Also if students take a second helping of the main
entrée or purchase other a la carté items frequently,
then additional money will be needed.
The Clarion-Goldfield School Board has set charge
limits for the family school meal accounts:
Regular-pay households:
Reduced-pay households:
One Student
in Household
$40
$10
More than One Student
in Household
$100
$25
Once these limits are reached, students will not be
allowed to charge school meals but will be provided
with a sack lunch and milk until payment is received.
School Meals Are Nutricious and Also a Good Deal!
Did you know that the average price for soda + candy bar + chips = $3.29? Or that the average price for a
fast food kid’s meal (chicken nuggets, fries/appes, milk/soda) = $3.87? Compare these prices to the cost
of a healthy school lunch at Clarion-Goldfield ($1.80 for elementary students and $1.90 for middle school
and high school students) and you will see that school meals are very economical. Many times school
meals cost less than a home-packaged lunch.
School meals offer food from all of the food groups. They introduce students to a variety of healthy food
choices. Many fruit and vegetable choices are offered at lunch to help students select a reimbursable
meal, which includes an entrée, up to three side dishes and milk. This “meal deal” is the best value in
terms of price and nutrition.