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Open Enrollment Deadline
Update Hopkins Public Schools
The community’s guide to the District. Former Hopkins special services director to receive Distinguished Alumni Award Former Hopkins Special Services Director, Jan Ormasa, received the University of Minnesota’s 2011 College of Education and Human Development Distinguished Alumni Award. Ormasa is receiving the award due to her years of service in the field of special education at Hopkins Public Schools.
FACS students, participate in ProStart Fundraiser
Left to right: HHS students Alec Cash, Mary Mobley, Nora Bonner, Amanda Young, Hannah Dickenson
Six Hopkins High School ProStart students gained real-world insight into the culinary and catering world by participating in the Stars of the Future fundraiser. The students were paired with experienced chefs and prepared appetizers for the event that was held at the W hotel in downtown Minneapolis. The fundraiser event raised money for the ProStart program, which prepares high-school students for culinary careers.
Go in-depth... Want to read more about our stories in this issue of Update? Go indepth at: HopkinsSchools.org/Up
Dec./ Jan. 2011-12
2012-13 Open Enrollment applications are being accepted now. Deadline to apply: January 15, 2012 Questions? Please call 952.988.4003.
c o m m u n i t y K-6 Non-School Days Open Swim
Supervised K-6 grade open swim at Eisenhower Pool! January 3, 4, 5, 6, 2012 1:00-3:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Hwy. 7, Hopkins $3 per child. 952.988.4070
Hopkins Parent Forum: Speaker: David Walsh, Ph.D. “Smart Parenting, Smarter Kids” January 24, 6:00-9:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Hwy. 7, Hopkins This is a free event.
XinXing Academy — Five Years Later A look back at the bold moves that built XinXing Academy. Molly Wieland still remembers the advice an immersion expert at the University of Minnesota gave her when she was exploring the possibility of starting an elementary immersion program at Hopkins Public Schools. “She told me to do something different,” said Wieland. “Go out on a limb — do Chinese or Arabic. Do something bold.” Wieland, who was then a world language coordinator for the District, brought this suggestion back to Superintendent John Schultz and remembers his reaction as well. It went something like this: “Chinese. Cutting edge — I like that.” That was six years ago, one year before XinXing Academy’s pioneer kindergarten class would begin forging forward. Now five years later, that group of students is in grade 4 and will continue to pave the path for XinXing through grade 6. The students will then have the opportunity to continue Chinese immersion at the secondary level when an ongoing immersion program rolls out at West Junior High in the 2014-2015 school year. The start of XinXing Academy Those who worked tirelessly to bring XinXing to Hopkins described the planning year as one big blur. While there are countless immersion programs in the Minneapolis metro area, Chinese immersion was largely uncharted territory. A team of planners researched immersion models at length and worked out as many details as possible ahead of time. Eisenhower Elementary was chosen as the location to host XinXing because it was centrally located and had enough space. The next step of the process was to recruit families to enroll.
First-grade XinXing teacher checks a student’s assignment.
language. Adults who are fluent in Chinese and English have a range of international opportunities available to them simply for being able to speak both languages. A large pool of parents are interested in Chinese immersion, but overall it tends to be a harder sell. The parents who signed up that first year were comfortable taking risks. They were signing up for a program that did not yet exist. “When I received the letter that Hopkins was adding Chinese, I called immediately,” said Kimberly Ruthenbeck, a parent of a student enrolled in the first year’s class. “There was no question that this is what I wanted as an education choice for my daughter.”
She told me to do something different. Go out on a limb — do Chinese or Arabic. Do something bold.
“It was easy to build on Hopkins’ solid reputation,” said Rosemary Lawrence, former principal of Eisenhower + XinXing. “We were very honest about the fact that we did not have all the answers, but that we would work closely with parents to create a program that was good for children and responsive to change as it evolved.” Chinese is labeled by the United States as a critical
Although an enthusiastic supporter from day one, Ruthenbeck understands how some parents could find Chinese immersion intimidating. “Not learning English until third-grade is usually what most parents are concerned about,” she said. “We now have proof, five years into the program, that students are becoming truly bilingual. It’s a journey in the early years, but the opportunity it gives kids is lifelong.”
Authentically Chinese Early in the planning phase it was decided that XinXing would be a rigorous program that was authentically Chinese. As Lawrence puts it, “no fortune cookies.” To give students the strongest start possible, the only option for kindergarten was, and continues to be, full-day immersion. Zhining Chin, data assessment coordinator for Hopkins Public Schools, was instrumental in setting XinXing up see XinXing, inside
District Life Changer
Liz Ogren
“I’m not sure I’m a ‘Life Changer,’ maybe I’m a ‘Life Changed,’” said fifth grade Glen Lake Elementary teacher, Liz Ogren. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), a neuro-degenerative disease with no cure, Liz knows all too well that life is not what you plan it to be, it is what happens in spite of your plans. “Being happy and making a difference is a choice,” she said. “I hope my students learn from me that it can be their choice, too. My students see me walk crookedly and trip over my own feet. They help me pick up papers that I bump into and scatter. They do jobs around the classroom that I used to do. But, they see that I still come to work each day and that I am glad to see them. I hope from me they will learn reading, writing, arithmetic, and resilience.” There is no doubt she has impacted her students. In fact, she currently teaches side-by-side with a former student. “When she was my fifth-grade teacher, she gave me the motivation and encouragement I needed to follow my dreams of becoming a teacher,” said Hannah Swaden, who teaches with Liz at Glen Lake. “She lives her life with passion and encourages her students to do the same.” Liz has a great sense of community spirit. Read about the fitness and fundraiser event for PD she started, Pedal and Roll for Parkinson’s, at right. Background: During my sophomore year of college, I subbed at Kids & Company and I volunteered at Meadowbrook Elementary. I had so much fun playing with the kids that I should have pursued my teaching degree right off the bat! But, I had plans to study in France for a year, and thus ended up with a BA in French and government. In September of 1990, I enrolled at St. Thomas for my teaching license and Master’s. I began teaching French at Eisenhower Elementary. Later, I was fortunate to find a position teaching grade 5 at Glen Lake, I worked with a great group of teachers then, and still do. What do you love most about working at Hopkins Public Schools? So many things! The strong feeling of community where every person is valued, that we prioritize kids and learning, that we are able to share our optimism with kids. Witnessing students’ smiles of satisfaction when a skill is attained or a project finished. Knowing that we are truly doing 1,000 things at once in order to help each child achieve his or her highest potential every day. Valuing uniqueness and diversity, outside of the box thinking, and the dedicated, caring, committed people of this community Proudest moments? When I can help kids learn in a fun, meaningful way. When my students know that I respect them as individuals no matter how easy or hard academic/social situations are for them. When a class goes out the door in June and says ‘This was the best year ever!’ Life quote? Being happy and making a difference is a choice. I hope my students learn that it can be their choice, too. Stats: r Bachelors: government and French r Teaching Licensure and Master’s, University of St. Thomas. Liz developed a love of working with children subbing for Kids & Company while in college. She took a few detours in her career path, but eventually came back to her true passion — teaching.
Where are they now?
Andrew J. Hoffer: 2004 graduate
Stats: Currently managing a sales team for a company he helped build, Optimal HCG. r B.S., Business Management, Gustavus Adolphus College fun facts Andrew recently took on a new opportunity managing a sales team for a weight-loss product company, started by Chris Jahnke, also a recent Hopkins grad. Together, they have built Optimal HCG from the ground up, and their weight-loss product has been a top-seller at a national chain. Andrew’s goal is to continue expansion of the business. How did Hopkins prepare you? Hopkins helped me make the most of my social surroundings and maintain a good reputation among my peers, which has helped me in life. Favorite CD of 2004? The Eminem Show tracks 7, 12, 16, and 18. Favorite hangout spot at Hopkins High School? The weight room after school. What Hopkins staff member made a difference in your life? Mr. Vin Paolucci. He knew when to step in during a critical period in my life, he knew just what to say, and pointed me in the right direction. I would like to thank him for that.
Liz Ogren pedals at Pedal and Roll for Parkinson’s
Community Spirit Tell us more about your non-profit, Pedal and Roll for Parkinson’s.
After being diagnosed with Parkinsons’s Disease (PD) I had to slow down, which, if you knew me before PD, would seem totally ridiculous. I had lots of irons in the fire, and was driven to achieve. When things got physically tough for me, my brother and his wife started taking me out for regular workouts, often against my will. Soon I began to appreciate the “forced” exercise sessions, and I started to feel the benefits. One day, I realized I had to pay forward the push they had given me. I decided to create a fitness event where people with Parkinson’s could do the actual exercise and live better today. Together with Park Nicollet Struthers Parkinson’s Center, I started a fundraising bike ride called Pedal and Roll for Parkinson’s, to raise money to enhance their exercise and therapy area. We made $5,000 to donate to Struthers! I am preparing for next year’s event on September 22, 2012 — hopefully at Cleary Lake Park. This year we had 180 riders. Next fall I hope for 300 riders, and for 100 of the riders to be people with Parkinson’s — that is really important to me. “Liz is a fighter and innovator for her students, the Glen Lake community, and Pedal and Roll,” said Glen Lake teacher Jeremy Loveless. “Even though she continues to battle the everyday trials that are associated with her disease, she has more fight in her pinky toe than most people have in their entire body.”
Know someone we should feature on this page? Email Carrie.Gerard@HopkinsSchools.org
JoAnn Guernsey: 1967 graduate Stats: Writer, author. r B.A. in Psychology, Macalester College, MN, later University of Massachusetts. r Completed extensive training in writing through classes and workshops. fun facts JoAnn has been a writer for over 30 years, with 19 published books for young readers. She is thrilled to have her first adult novel in print, Glass Asylum, published by North Star Press of St. Cloud. In addition to writing, JoAnn enjoys visiting groups of readers and/or writers for discussion. Favorite Band of 1967? I could not get enough of Simon & Garfunkel! Favorite hangout spot at Hopkins High School? The band room. I always felt at home there. How did Hopkins prepare you? I had amazing English teachers who enhanced my love of literature and encouraged me to express myself by writing. What Hopkins staff member made a difference in your life? My AP English teacher, he had me not only analyzing what I read, but also writing in a very encouraging way that has stuck all these years.
Mark Magney: 1974 graduate Stats: President, Magney Construction, Inc. r B.S., Engineering, University of Minnesota fun facts Mark Magney recently celebrated 31 years of marriage to his Hopkins Eisenhower High School sweetheart, Tammy Sehlin. Mark started a general construction company in 1994. He has since grown the company to 40-plus employees, specializing in the construction of Municipal Water and Wastewater Treatment Systems. Favorite hangout spot at Hopkins (Eisenhower) High School? The hallway by my locker! Favorite CD of 1974? Albums back then! Steely Dan, “Pretzel Logic.” How did Hopkins prepare you? The excellent science and math programs paved the way for my career. What Hopkins staff member made a difference in your life? Larry Hanson, science teacher and football coach. He was a really awesome motivator and stressed the importance of hard work and discipline. Update: December /January 2011-12
Hopkins Activities Director to Receive Top National Honor Dan Johnson, activities director for Hopkins High School, will receive the Distinguished Service Award from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) on December 13, 2011. The award will be presented at the National Athletic Directors Conference in Indianapolis.
“I am very proud to receive this award, and even more so to represent Hopkins Public Schools,” said Johnson. “I am so fortunate to have the opportunity to do this job and to have the support of our administration, staff, coaches, and parents.”
The Distinguished Service Award is one of the most significant awards in the field of nationwide activity directors. Johnson is one of 10 activity directors in the country to receive this honor this year from the NIAAA. Over the past 25 years, only six activity directors from Minnesota have received the Distinguished Service Award.
Johnson has served as Hopkins High School’s activity director for the past 13 years. He is responsible for 32 high school teams, 14 junior high teams, six fine arts activities, along with 170 coaches, and 10 fine arts directors.
“Dan’s leadership is engaging, and a model for athletics and activities leadership,” said Superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools, John Schultz. “Dan knows just about every athlete and performer who is under his care, regardless of their skill or ability.”
Despite a long list of accomplishments, including being named the 2007 Region 6AA Athletic Administrator of the Year, Johnson relishes the smaller moments. Seeing students play for the love of the game and display good sportsmanship, or watching a coach support
The Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to individuals from within the NIAAA membership in recognition of their length of service, special accomplishments, and contributions to interscholastic athletics at the local, state and national levels.
XinXing, continued from cover
for a successful start. In addition to her current role with the District, Chin became the Chinese expert for XinXing. Chin grew up in China and attended college in both China and the United States. She also had experience working with Chinese immersion schools in the United States. Using her knowledge of both systems, Chin recruited, hired, and mentored staff, translated curriculum, and partnered with the Chinese community to provide students with enrichment experiences.
“What has ended up happening is that we have the best elements of Chinese approaches to education, blended with the best American approaches to education,” said Wieland. Wieland is particularly proud of her work with the FLAP (Foreign Language Assistance Program) grant, which delivers STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) curriculum in Chinese. STEM experiences are offered in all the Hopkins elementary schools, but were not available to XinXing until last year when acoustical engineering and bio-engineering were integrated into grade 3. This year, in grade 4, students are studying magnetism and electricity. This curriculum is delivered entirely in Chinese, giving students a strong global edge.
Challenges and opportunities In its first years, XinXing faced culture shock on both sides. XinXing teachers are from China. Culturally they are Chinese and they know Chinese education, which is drastically different from the United States’ education system. For example, in China, there is a We have the strong focus on discipline and best elements of structure. Students do not ask teachers questions because that Chinese approaches is perceived as disrespectful. The American system is much to education, more exploratory. Students are blended with the encouraged to think critically and ask questions. Teachers, parents, and students on both sides had to adjust their expectations and find a new equilibrium. Over time, a balance was discovered between the two educational styles.
best American approaches to education.
100% Success Rate 100% of XinXing Academy students passed the Youth Chinese Test (YCT), an international standardized Chinese proficiency test administered by the Minnesota Confucius Institute on May 20, 2011. www.HopkinsSchools.org/Up
and recognize positive behavior, those are the cherished moments. He notes that on a personal level, he is most proud of the fact that both his children graduated from Hopkins High School.
Two programs, one school XinXing is a separate program located in Eisenhower Elementary. Being part of an existing elementary school offers numerous benefits. Students have access to resources like a media center, a cafeteria, and technology. The Chinese staff has the support of a building filled with experienced teachers who are knowledgeable in the American educational system.
The two programs are separate, but they are housed in the same building. It’s only common sense that there be harmony and partnership between them. In fact, current principal Terri Sigüenza has spent the last three years creating a culture that embraces both programs and unifies the staff and students, starting with just one name — Eisenhower + XinXing Academy. Other changes have been made, too. Celebrations that used to be program specific are now building-wide. Everyone celebrates the Chinese New Year and everyone attends the well-known Eisenhower sixth-grade musical. As both sets
of students enter upper elementary, the two programs begin to intertwine. Fourth-grade Eisenhower and XinXing students take field trips together. “We are creating an awareness school-wide,” said Sigüenza. “There is a clear understanding of the benefits that each program brings. We all have a valued place here.” Immersion continues into junior high Students of XinXing Academy will be able to continue their Chinese-immersion experience at the secondary level. Hopkins West Junior High will house a Chinese immersion program for grades 7-9 starting in 2014. The immersion experience will consist of at least two courses in Chinese — a Chinese Language Arts or Literature and Culture, plus one other content course. The program will expand course offerings in Chinese as it grows at the secondary level. Comprehensive planning for secondary immersion will continue for the next two years, when the pioneer class, currently in grade 4, reaches grade 7.
McDonald Finds his Place at Hopkins High School Newest assistant principal sought Hopkins for its reputation for excellence. Adam McDonald was looking for an administration position with a west-metro school district. When an opportunity presented itself at Hopkins, he jumped at it. He is now the newest assistant principal at Hopkins High School, a role he began this school year. “I was looking for a district with a strong mission, vision, and a reputation of excellence,” said McDonald. “I really loved the ‘every school, every student, every day’ mission statement.” McDonald filled the position formerly held by Patty Johnson, who accepted the role of high school principal at the end of the 2010-2011 school year. The high school has two assistant principals and McDonald’s position works closely with teachers, primarily supporting the work they do instructionally. Collaborating with teachers is what McDonald is most excited about. “Hopkins teachers take their work very seriously,” said McDonald. “They have passion, exhibit leadership, provide stability, and are always open to trying new things.”
Hopkins Education Foundation Awards Grants to Hopkins Schools Over $26,000 in grants awarded! Thanks to generous donors, volunteers, and sponsors, the Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) recently awarded over $26,000 in grants that benefit all levels in the school district. The following programs received grant money: Making College a Reality for English Language Learners, Hopkins Public Schools, Scott Endo College readiness is an important part of the District’s strategic plan. This innovative parent involvement program works with families of English language learners to explain the college process and help families better prepare their students. Daily Five Listening Centers Glen Lake Elementary, Cindy Anderson Listening to books is one of the basic development steps in learning to read. This grant provides the tools for listening. Listening
to Reading, Reading to Self, Reading to Someone, Working on Writing, and Working with Words are components of the Daily Five literacy program. Lexia Reading Program, Tanglen Elementary, Bonnie Hild Lexia software provides reading assessment, lesson plans, and teaching tools that adjust to students’ progress and individual needs. Students at home can also access the Web-based technology. Roll ‘Em: Video Cameras for Language Assessments, Hopkins High School Stephanie Owen-Lyons Small groups of world language students can now easily record their conversations with Flip cameras. Students are more comfortable, and the teachers can efficiently assess the oral activities outside of class time with the video recording. Book Project, Off Campus Pavilion, Deb Ludwig and Val Honey Students create and illustrate their own book in language arts class. The project helps students develop writing, illustrating, editing, and technology skills.
Hopkins Education Foundation’s Annual Fundraiser Event Saturday, February 25, 2012 Tickets on sale in January New Location — Golden Valley Golf and Country Club
Hopkins Education Foundations’ Royal Bash — come celebrate to benefit our schools! This popular annual fundaiser includes a live auction, silent auction, and dinner. We look forward to seeing you at this “royal” event! For more information, please call 952-988-4097.
Prior to Hopkins, McDonald worked as the dean of students at Mounds View from 2006 to 2011. He also taught social studies at Lake View North for four years, and worked at an alternative school in Burnsville, teaching students who were struggling in regular classes. He attended Hamline University for his undergraduate work and Saint Mary’s for his graduate work — he holds a Master’s degree in education, a K-12 principal license, and an educational specialist degree.
Strong Support
In his free time, McDonald enjoys spending time with his family. He has been known to dabble in ballroom dancing with his wife. He also has an interest in wrestling and hopes to volunteer for the high school’s wrestling program.
This summer, Hopkins Public Schools commissioned a survey by Decision Resources to measure the perceptions of parents. Overall, the community gave the District a strong rating.
t .PSF UIBO QFSDFOU of parents rated the quality of education as excellent or good.
Highlights include:
t ɨF GPVS PVUTUBOEJOH characteristics most attributed to Hopkins Public Schools include variety of courses, academic achievement, basic academics, and access to technology.
Hopkins teachers take their work very seriously. They have passion, exhibit leadership, provide stability, and are always open to trying new things.
Survey reveals community support for Hopkins Public Schools
t 1SFTDIPPM QBSFOUT TUSPOHMZ TVQQPSUFE Hopkins Public Schools and had the most positive attitudes about the District. t )PQLJOT UFBDIFST BOE RVBMJUZ PG FEVDBUJPO received the highest rankings when those surveyed were asked what they like most about the District. Furthermore, the vast majority of people agreed that their children’s teachers were highly trained and effective, and that the schools provided a safe learning environment.
t ɨF %JTUSJDU T OFXTMFUUFS UIF %JTUSJDU T website, and email are the principle sources of information for parents. Additionally, the mailed newsletter, e-mail, and the website are the most effective communication channels.
Update: December /January 2011-12
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Watch your mail for your Early Childhood, Adult, and Youth Community Education Catalogs Welcome! ÂĄBienvenidos! Soodhawaada!
Winter/Spring classes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; check out all there is to explore, learn, make, and do with Hopkins Community Education: Building a great place to live for all ages!
get out and see the world!
page 20
Options to fit your needs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; part-day to full-day!pages 12-14
New baby? Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re invited â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to our free Baby Shower!
page 17
Come For Your Child...Stay For Yourself! Building a great place to live
Hopkins Community Education
Gluten-Free Cooking: go gluten-free and feel better page 12
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New: The Great Comeback: Get control of your life!page 24
21
Building a great place to live
January-May 2012 Download our full catalog for class descriptions and register at:
www.HopkinsCommunityEd.org 952-988-4070 Building a great place to live
Hopkins Community Education: Youth Enrichment
Hopkins Community Education
Early Childhood
Adult Enrichment Classes
New: Travel Solo â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you can
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Learn anywhere! Online classes on page 10
Tired of whining? Strategies for building positive behaviors!
Plus: Looking for Preschool?
Kettlebells Core Strength
Event!
Frosty Fun!
Try our Intro class and find out what all the buzz is about! Burn fat, increase core strength, and bring your fitness level to new heights. #941: Kettlebells Introduction: Jan. 4, Feb. 8, Mar. 14, Apr. 18, 5:30-7:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins 952-988-4070 or visit www.HopkinsCommunityEd.org
Event!
Potpourri Art Show
December 8, 2011 - January 8, 2012
paintings . pottery . drawings . photographs . fine crafts . jewelry
An art exhibit of works created by Hopkins Community Education adult enrichment teachers and their students. Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins
Parent Education Event!
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Smart Parenting, Smarter Kidsâ&#x20AC;?
Parenting Workshop with speaker: David Walsh, Ph.D. Tuesday, January 24, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Come in from the cold! Indoor winter family fun! 4BUVSEBZ +BOVBSZ r B N Hopkins Early Childhood Family Education invites your family to our indoor Frosty Fun winter event for families with children ages 2-5. Enjoy playing with snow and ice, make snowflake art, sing snowy songs, listen to winter tales, and enjoy warm cocoa. Harley Hopkins Family Center. Class #405EW. Cost: $5 for first child, $2 each additional sibling. Register: 952-988-5000 or www.HopkinsCommunityEd.org.
Event!
Free event! Get new insight into brain development and develop new parenting strategies to allow your child to reach their full potential â&#x20AC;&#x201D; academically, socially, physically and emotionally. Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins
Youth Enrichment Activity
Family Open Swim Saturdays Fun and fitness family time together! Saturdays, December 3 - March 24, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Cost is only $7.00 per family per session. Lifeguards are on duty during all open family swim hours. Eisenhower Community Center Pool, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. Questions about Family Open Swim? 952-988-4070.
Activity
Kids & Company
When school is out, Kids & Company is in! Make plans now for non-school day child care. Hopkins Kids & Company offers a fullâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;day recreational program available during school breaks. Plan for Thanksgiving Break and Winter Break now and your kids will have safe, supervised, active fun on non-school days! Our program creates a safe, fun-filled environment where kids in grades K-6 actively stretch their mind and body through age-appropriate activities, arts and crafts, group games, sports, and field trips. Each school has limited spaces available at a cost of $45.00 per day. Call us at 952-988-4080.
Storytime! You and your family are invited... Tuesday, January 17 6-7:15 p.m.
You and your family are invited to join us at our FREE Story Time & Dinner at Hopkins Public Library! Come for a meal, a chance to visit with others with children (birth-24 months), and share a story and play time with the children. In addition, choose a new, free book for each child to take home. Older siblings are welcome. Limited space. Make your reservation, call at 952-988-5046, or Kathryn.Moore@HopkinsSchools.org
Classes
Out of the House!
Beat the winter wiggles â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Stay & Play and Open Gym! Enjoy indoor playtime and activities with your child and get out those winter wiggles. Some times still available in December â&#x20AC;&#x201D; new classes starting in January! Come for one class, or take a series â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays! Call 952-988-5000 or visit www.HopkinCommunityEd.org
Visit www.HopkinsCommunityEd.org for all our offerings, or call 952-988-4070 for a catalog. www.HopkinsSchools.org/Up
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December/January Events
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The Wizard of Oz â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Blue Water Theatre December 1, 2, and 3, 7:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center Theater, www.HopkinsConference.com Apollo Male Chorus â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Holiday Concert December 4, 3:00 p.m. Hopkins High School Auditorium, tickets: 952-933-6322
Residential Postal Patron ECRWSS
Potpourri â&#x20AC;&#x201C; An art exhibit of work created by Hopkins Community Education adult enrichment teachers and students. December 8, 2011-January 8, 2012 Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins The Nutcracker â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Metropolitan Ballet, Kenwood Symphony Orchestra December 10, 1:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., December 11, 3:00 p.m. Hopkins High School Auditorium, www.HopkinsConference.com Hopkins Westwind Concert Band â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Holiday Concert December 11, 7:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, www.HopkinsConference.com One Voice Mixed Chorus January 21, 7:30 p.m. January 22, 3:30 p.m. In the Hopkins High School Auditorium Hopkins High School Auditorium, www.ovmc.org Hopkins Parent Forum â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Smart Parenting, Smarter Kids January 24, 6:00-9:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, questions: 952-988-4081. Yoga Workshops â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Christina Sell January 27-29 Eisenhower Community Center, www.YogaGardenMpls.com
New Year, New School Board Members! Re-elected and newly elected school board members On November 8, the Hopkins Public Schools community went to the polls and selected four school board members. Steven Adams and Kristine Newcomer were newly elected. Incumbents Wendy Donovan and Irma McIntosh Coleman were elected to serve another term. Each term is four years long and starts January 2012.
HHS Spirit Shop
Hopkins Letter Jackets, Emblems, Sweats, Shirts and Hats
Saturday Sales! Dec. 3, 10, and 17 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m
Show your Hopkins spirit! Great items for gift giving, or find something just for yourself! The Spirit Shop is located on the main floor of Hopkins High School next to the Lindbergh Center. Cash or checks accepted. Call the Spirit Shop at 952-988-4551.
Key District Contacts
District Office 952-988-4000 Adult Options In Education 952-988-5343 Athletics 952-988-4691 Community Education 952-988-4070 Early Childhood 952-988-5000 Human Resources 952-988-4030 Kids & Company 952-988-4080 Nutrition/Royal Cuisine 952-988-4060 Special Education 952-988-4040 Superintendent 952-988-4021 Transportation 952-988-4115
Get Connected Find us on Facebook:
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Mark Your Calendar â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Registration Dates Kindergarten 2012-13 Registration Deadlines Half-Day Kindergarten: No registration deadline. Please attend the Kindergarten Roundup in your attendance area.
Learn more about XinXing Academy Chinese Immersion Information Fair December 13, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, Room 233 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins, MN 55305 Hopkins Public Schools has an amazing Chinese Full-Immersion program â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and we want you to learn more. Get all your questions answered in one spot, on one night. Talk with parents of XinXing students, meet our teachers, see examples of curriculum, and much more. Mark your calendar. XinXing School Program Tours: Thursday, December 15, 9:15-10:15 a.m. Thursday, January 12, 9:15-10:15 a.m.
Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it on December 13? Join us for a parent information night on: January 10, at 6:30 p.m. Eisenhower Elementary School
Full-Day Kindergarten Plus: Registrations are being accepted now. Registration deadline is January 16, 2012. Notification letters will be mailed February 16. Full-Day: KinderConnection: Registration is open now. Registration deadline is March 16, 2012. Enrollment is guaranteed if registered by March 16, 2012. Full-Day: XinXing Academy: Registration deadline is January 16, 2012. Notification letters will be mailed February 16. Additional spaces may be available after the registration deadlines.
Open Enrollment Registration Deadline Open enrollment applications for the 20122013 school year are being collected from now until January 15, 2012. If you miss the January 15 deadline, you may still submit an application, but it will be placed on a waiting list for later review. For application questions, please contact: Pat Wright at 952-988-4003.