It’s hard to believe 2012 is already here and 2011 is another year from our past. Before we get too far into the new calendar year, let’s revisit some of the highlights from the last few months of 2011. First of all, elementary students sold $16,786 during our Great American Opportunities (GAO) fundraiser, raising over $7,000 for our school. Students (and parents) did a wonderful job in the midst of a tough economy and we’re grateful for your hard work and support with our annual fundraiser. Mr. Watkins’ class won the top sales award, selling $2,412. Additionally, Mrs. Dekoning’s 3rd & 4th split-grade class won the top participation award. Grace Allphin was the top overall seller (for the second year in a row). Mrs. Brauer coordinated our GAO event this year, and we can’t thank her enough for all she did. She made the fundraiser a huge success for our kids. Thank you, Tanya!
Our Scholastic Book Fair theme this year – To the Book Fair and Beyond! – took place during conference week in the elementary library. I hope you had a chance to stop in and browse the merchandise. Mrs. Boast coordinated our book fair this year, while Gracie Brauer, Payton Hyatt and Reagan Baker helped promote the event by dressing in the Clifford the Big Red Dog costume during the week. Many wonderful parents also donated their time to make everything work out super for our students. Thank you!
Tied into the Book Fair week, Mrs. Boast challenged students to a “Duct Tape the Principal” contest. If students read over 10,000 minutes during the week, they could duct tape me to the wall – for some reason shaving my head wasn’t a good enough incentive for them. Students almost doubled the goal by reading over 19,000 minutes. I’m happy to share I followed through with my end of the bargain and was duct taped to the wall in the MPR during our December 2nd assembly. I’ve recovered alright since my time suspended from the wall, but I think some staff and students with claustrophobic tendencies still refuse to go near duct tape.
On a final note, Michele Cook has joined the elementary staff as our new secretary. Mrs. Cook has been the secretary at the secondary school for the past twelve years, and we are excited to have her join our elementary team. Please take a minute to welcome Michele when you have an opportunity. Mrs. Allphin accepted a position as the district secretary in late October. Thank you, Lonnie, for your wonderful service to Kittitas Elementary for the past six years, and we wish you the very best in your new position.
Best wishes to you and your family throughout 2012. Have a great year!
Sincerely,
Derek Larsen