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Open Enrollment Deadline
Update Hopkins Public Schools
The community’s guide to the District. Dec. 2013/Jan. 2014
Hopkins students take financial challenge with Minnesota Vikings
Hopkins High School students, the Minnesota Department of Commerce, the Minnesota Vikings, and Visa teamed up on Nov. 19 for an event highlighting the importance of Financial Literacy. Vikings player Greg Jennings and Commissioner of Commerce Mike Rothman were pitted against each other as they each led a team of students in a game of Financial Literacy Football Trivia. In 2011, Hopkins became the first district in Minnesota to make Financial Literacy a required course. This preparation made students especially tough contenders in the trivia challenge — they only missed a few questions.
Hopkins junior highs to eliminate study halls from schedule
In an effort to align with International Baccalaureate (IB), both Hopkins junior highs will move to an alternatingday, four-block schedule, which will eliminate study halls. This change will take effect starting next school year. The new schedule will meet IB standards and enable students to take additional courses above the requirements. More information at www.hopkinsschools.org.
2014-15 Hopkins Public Schools Open Enrollment applications are being accepted now. Deadline to apply: January 15, 2014 Questions? Please call 952-988-4110.
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com m u ni t y Free Comet Week Open House Nights
Pot Pourri Art Exhibit
View an exhibit of artwork Experience a close encounter with created by Hopkins the Comet ISON at the historic Community Education Eisenhower Observatory. Free Adult Enrichment students viewing of the night sky and this and teachers. once-in-a-lifetime comet! December 5 - January 6 Eisenhower Community Center Hopkins Center for the Arts Observatory, December 16-20 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins 1001 Hwy. 7, Hopkins HopkinsSchools.org/Observatory
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Hopkins High School Offers a Wealth of Music Opportunities Hopkins High School is a GRAMMY® Signature School semifinalist The last few months have been exciting for the Hopkins High School music department. The Minnesota Orchestra performed live for students, 20 choir students performed in concert with the band Paramore, and to top it off, Hopkins High School was named a GRAMMY® Signature School semifinalist. If Mark Czech, music chair at Hopkins High School, could ask for one more thing, it would be for Hopkins High School to earn the esteemed honor of GRAMMY® Signature School finalist. Hopkins is deep into the application process, but a decision won’t be announced until March. “Our music program is one of the top in the state,” said Czech. “You could come to a band concert as someone who has never experienced band, and have an enjoyable and entertaining experience. The level of musicianship and the quality level of our performances is spectacular.” An exceptional staff According to Czech, the success of the music program is attributed to the staff, specifically the world-class orchestra, band, and choir directors. Over the years, each has taken the time and energy to put a unique spin on their program, creating opportunities that are engaging and relevant for students. For example, Philip Brown, choir director at Hopkins High School, compares singing to preparing a meal —there should be flavors, spices, variety, and the unexpected. His students are learning Norwegian lullabies, Czech folk songs, and Swedish-American pieces. “Choir teaches us to find a voice,” said Brown. “One of the neatest things it does is builds a positive community for the kids who are involved. They feel a sense of pride, accomplishment, and belonging—it’s a chance for them to be successful.”
The Hopkins music program has drum line, nine choirs, three orchestras, a string quartet, two jazz bands, a pep band, a concert band, a symphonic band, a wind symphony, a marching band, and more.
secondary and undergraduate choral training throughout Minnesota by celebrating music educators who uphold high standards of excellence in repertoire selection, and acknowledging creativity in choral performance.
Brown oversees nine choirs a year—five that are curricular, and four that are before or after school. He runs a healthy five-concerts-a-year performance schedule and strives to embed innovation into everything he does. He also seeks professional performing You could come opportunities for his students. On Nov. 23, 20 to a band concert as of his top singers performed live with the band Paramore at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium in someone who has St. Paul.
never experienced band, and have an enjoyable and entertaining experience. The level of musicianship and the quality level of our performances is spectacular.
This fall, Brown was awarded the 2013 American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota Award for Creative Programming. The award affirms the importance of quality
“It was a tremendous opportunity for our students to perform on stage with a professional group,” said Brown. “They got to experience a sound check and observe how a professional band prepares for a show.”
Breadth of music programming—from drum line to music production Despite the fact that music classes are elective and students don’t have to take them, the high school music program continues to grow its enrollment. Czech attributes this trend, in part, to a decision the department made 15 years ago when they created paths for students who did not have musical training. From that idea, the guitar program was born, which allowed students who did not already play an instrument (as well as those who did) an opportunity to learn guitar. The class was an instant hit, with enrollment reaching 250 kids. Now the department teaches three levels of guitar. Thanks to a Hopkins
Make music part of your December. High School concerts featured on back.
see MUSIC inside
Ken Novak Inducted into the Minnesota Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame On Saturday, Nov. 2, the eve of his 32nd year of coaching, Ken Novak Jr. the head boys basketball coach at Hopkins High School, was inducted into the Minnesota Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. The ceremony, hosted at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Minneapolis, honored Novak, along with Luverne’s Laurin Carroll, Vern Johnson of Grygla-Gatzke, and Braham’s Bob Vaughan. “Coach Novak’s impact on the Hopkins community is far-reaching, not only as a basketball coach, but as a teacher and mentor for so many,” said Dan Johnson, Hopkins activities director. “A testament to his ability as a coach—he has won six state championships as a basketball coach, but his first state title was in girls tennis almost 20 years ago.”
Novak joins another Hopkins coach in the MBCA Hall of Fame, his father Ken Novak Sr. whom he credits for being his constant mentor over his nearly three decades of coaching. “My dad’s number one. We model a lot of what we’ve done off of him,” Novak said. “He’s a hall of fame coach too. It was just seeing the importance he had on kids’ lives. Former players would come back and thank him and it really showed me how impactful being a coach could be.” Novak took over the role of head mentor for the Hopkins boys basketball program in 1990 after 10 seasons at Blaine Public Schools. Since returning to the Royals 24 seasons ago, Novak has helped Hopkins claim six Class AAAA state championships (2002, 05, 06, 09, 10, 11) and 20 Lake Conference titles. For his efforts, Novak was named National Coach of the Year by ESPN in 2011. Under his watch, the Royals have also seen numerous players go on to play in college, as Novak ensures that all of his players are excelling
MUSIC continued from cover Education Foundation grant, a few years later, music technology was added into the mix with the same hope of drawing even more students to music. To date, that class has remained overwhelmingly successful.
different from learning and is more about creating. Czech wants his students to know that plenty of music careers exist and pursuing music can be an option for them after high school.
“What is amazing to me is that a lot of students in the music technology room are not music kids,” said Czech. “It’s important to offer opportunities for the kid who has not been in band for five years.”
To illustrate this idea, last summer, Czech created a wall of fame depicting Hopkins alumni who currently make a living performing, producing, writing music, or writing about music. The list is growing quite lengthy and includes all the members of the local hip-hop group Doomtree (except Dessa), Holly (Heinrich) Henry from the hit show “The Voice,” and Ryan Schreiber, the founder of the indie music blog “Pitchfork Media.”
Of course, it should be noted that the high school has plenty of opportunities for students who have been training in music since kindergarten, as well. The Hopkins music program has drum line, nine choirs, three orchestras, a string quartet, two jazz bands, a pep band, a concert band, a symphonic band, a wind symphony, a marching band, and more. Inspiration: music after high school Music offers students an important creative outlet. It engages a side of the brain that is
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in the classroom as well as on the court. “We have sent a lot of kids to college. I think it has become something special,” Novak said. “We teach self-discipline and a work ethic. There’s a responsibility here and they [the players] have to live up to that responsibility.” When not coaching, Novak teaches Social Studies at Hopkins High School. “Hopkins is a special place. I’m continually amazed by the teachers I’m associated with, how hard they’re working,” Novak said. “I’m not sure if we realize how lucky we are to have the teachers we do. I consider myself very lucky to be here.” In his career, Novak has amassed a win-loss record of 711-130 for a winning percentage of 84.5. His 711 career victories currently rank fourth all-time in Minnesota . With 13 state tournament appearances, Novak is tied for third in state history with Bob Brink of Rocori (Cold Spring). His six state championships are the most all-time for a coach in Minnesota. The Royals, meanwhile, started their 2013-14 season at the Lindbergh Center on Nov. 26 against Bloomington-Kennedy.
Top photo: The Hopkins High School Music Alumni Hall of Fame Bottom Photo: The Honor Wall is the first thing students see when they enter the music hall of the high school. As soon as they walk through the doors, they know they are part of a rich tradition.
“All these kids who have gone through here have been inspired by other musicians or teachers,” said Czech. “Our music department has been a great place to foster talent, and get kids to believe in themselves.”
Building a great place to live
Youth Enrichment
You asked, we delivered — more youth classes than ever! Winter/Spring Youth Enrichment is bursting at the seams with more and new classes to engage your elementary child or teen in out-of-school time fun and learning! Check out cup stacking, dance, water polo, ballet/ tap/jazz dance, bicycle maintenance, chess, firearms safety, art, Lacrosse, golf, ski/snowboard tune-up, winter survival, and more. See your Youth Enrichment mailer for all of our great classes! Visit www.HopkinsCommunityEd.org
Early Childhood
Frosty Fun! Come in from the cold for indoor winter family fun!
Saturday, January 11 10:00-11:30 a.m. Play with snow and ice, create snowflake art, sing snowy songs, listen to winter stories, enjoy warm cocoa, and more — all indoors! Class # 405-EW. Ages 2-5. $5 per family. Register, call 952-988-5046 www.HopkinsCommunityEd.org
Culinary Program Offers Hopkins Students Delicious Opportunities
Hopkins culinary students complete hands-on training at the Le Cordon Bleu “Culinary Boot Camp.”
With nearly 100 separate teams, fine arts groups, and before- or after-school clubs, an activity exists for any interest at Hopkins High School. There’s even a group for students interested in culinary competition via the ProStart Culinary team. One of the first ProStart teams in Minnesota and winner of the inaugural state competition in 2008, the Hopkins ProStart team recently began pre-heating its sixth-year of competition with trips to Le Cordon Bleu for a “Culinary Boot Camp.” Hopkins ProStart coach Gayle Durand said that November provided several practice opportunities for the team members, but noted that the real training for the March 4th state competition picks up after the New Year. “When it comes to competition, in February we’ll be meeting almost daily and practicing the meal that we’re going to make for the state competition,” Durand said. Durand also teaches Family and Consumer Sciences and culinary courses at Hopkins High School and was integral in bringing ProStart, a national curriculum requiring state-level sponsorship from a professional restaurant association, to Hopkins. She now teaches nine sections of culinary with ProStart-infused curriculum, training students in food safety and sanitation, varied culinary skills, and even restaurant management. Her classes, which appeal to any student with an affinity for food, help provide the membership for the ProStart team. Despite its professional ties, you don’t have to be a chef in training to take part in ProStart.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Curriculum in all Hopkins Preschools Children are natural explorers, sense-makers, and problem-solvers. What they explore depends on the materials, experiences, and support we provide them. As a result, all Hopkins preschool programs — Kaleidoscope, Stepping Stones, Ready4K — have embedded STEM curriculum. STEM learning integrates well into the Hopkins Preschool program because it is already centered around exploratory learning, a cornerstone of the Reggio-inspired approach. The STEM for Preschool project provides Hopkins preschool classrooms with the tools and knowledge necessary to assist children in an elevated beginning exploration and understanding of STEM concepts. This gives preschoolers the STEM base knowledge, ready to be expanded on, as they move into deeper STEM concepts through the Hopkins Public Schools curriculum. Discover the difference your preschool choice can make, by attending one of the upcoming Visit Us preschool open house dates (below) in February 2014.
Preschool is the perfect time to start developing STEM concepts because students are already so curious. They want to experiment, and STEM curriculum helps us frame those experiences. —Karen Tadewald, preschool program supervisor
“I want to be a nutritional scientist who specializes in dietetics, so I would teach people how to cook healthy for their own personal disabilities or inabilities to do things,” said student Zoe Epperson. “I love working with food. Even though I don’t want to be a chef, I want to do something in the science area of it.” But for members intent on following the culinary career path, ProStart offers an added bonus—thousands of dollars in available scholarships. According to Durand, the HMEF (Hospitality Minnesota Education Foundation) gave away $63,000 in scholarship funds last year alone. “All the kids who are involved in ProStart can apply for scholarships through HMEF,” said Durand.“Likewise, students who complete the two-year ProStart program will earn their ProStart passport and can receive free classes at certain universities.”
The heat is on—in competition, ProStart Culinary teams are asked to complete a three-course meal in 60 minutes using just two propane burners for heat. There are no electrical outlets and no running water. The teams are graded on taste, skill, teamwork, safety, and sanitation. A management competition also exists, as students quickly solve challenges faced by industry managers on a daily basis.
Hopkins Preschool Visit Us Events: Stepping Stones Preschool:
Kaleidoscope Preschool:
Tanglen Elementary: Tuesday, Feb. 11 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Meadowbrook Elementary: Monday, Feb. 24 Noon-1:00 p.m.
Meadowbrook Elementary: Wednesday, Feb. 12 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Harley Hopkins Family Center: Friday, Feb. 28 Noon-1:00 p.m.
Gatewood Elementary: Thursday, Feb. 13 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Glen Lake Elementary: Tuesday, Feb. 25 Noon-1:00 p.m.
District Life Changer
Philip Brown
Philip Brown has been an enthusiastic presence in the Hopkins High School music department for eight years. He is described as passionate and full of energy. He has high expectations for his students, but they don’t seem to mind. In fact, they sing his praises. “Mr. Brown always strives for excellence in all his choirs and uses very specific and successful teaching techniques to make his choirs the best of the best,” said student Dan Sheldon.
When Philip arrived at Hopkins, he had the goal of preserving the existing traditions and adding new ones. In his second year, he started to invite alumni back to sing on-stage during the last concert of the year. Now over 100 students return to be part of this final performance. Philip also wanted to create and grow a men’s chorus that was focused completely on the high school male changing voice, allowing young men an opportunity to build camaraderie through singing. Seeing this work come alive is something he considers a real blessing. Philip’s students are ever impressed by his commitment to them. He can always be counted on to provide extra support before or after school. One student commented on how he will show up to dozens of high school sporting events to support his students. “Before or after class, he is there to support you in every way,” said student Jessi Ewing, “but during class, it is his job to push us musically.” Background: In a previous life, Philip was the director of choral activities for a high school in Colorado. When his family re-located, he briefly worked in White Bear Lake, and then learned about an opening at Hopkins from a friend. Knowing that the Hopkins music department had a great reputation, Philip did not hesitate to apply. He has been the director of choral activities at Hopkins High School ever since.
New Reflections Tyson Crockett
Tyson Crockett is the newest face on the Hopkins High School administrative team. As Academic Dean, he interacts with students daily and helps them achieve success. Born and raised in neighboring St. Louis Park, Tyson blazed a non-traditional path to professional success. He calls his job at Hopkins High School a dream opportunity to work for a continuously improving organization. Tyson graduated from the University of Duluth with a teaching degree, he has a Master’s and a Principal Licensure from St. Cloud State University. Where have you worked recently? I have worked in Minneapolis, Robbinsdale, and Spring Lake Park school districts, and in the Hennepin County foster care system. I have also worked as communications director.
Proudest moments? Moments I am proud of happen each day when students learn more about music and how to sing with one another. Hearing them create a new sound, artistically sing a phrase, or embrace working together as an ensemble are daily joys.
Who or what inspired you to become an academic dean? My inspiration comes from caring people that took an interest in me at a young age and saw under-utilized potential in me. Those teachers and administrators did not let me quit, and I attempt to provide the same opportunities for our students.
Teaching philosophy? Ralph Waldo Emerson said ‘nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.’ I try to reflect this consistently with students through music.
If your job were a reality show, what would it be called? High Expectations.
What do you love most about working at Hopkins Public Schools? The students who invest time in music classes at Hopkins High School are among the finest young adults I can imagine being around. They are hard working, intelligent, creative, and passionate about music.
Stats: • Philip is the director of choral activities at Hopkins High School. He graduated summa cum laude from Bethany College in Kansas, majoring in K-12 music education. He later received his M.M. degree in Music Education from Northern Arizona University. He has been awarded the ACDA-MN/Vocal Essence Creative Programming Award, Director of Note for Minnesota, and ACDA-MN Young Director of the Year. He is married to Molly Brown and has a Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Gracie.
Where are they now?
Jessica Waldman: 2001 graduate
Stats: Master Coach Reading Corps, United Way Colorado • B.A. Education, Special Education, Indiana University, M.S.Ed., Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Walden University fun facts After graduating from college, Jessica wanted a new adventure. She landed a job as a special educator and moved to Colorado where she fell in love with the area. No mosquitos are a plus! After six years of teaching, Jessica began seeking a role where she could positively impact more students. Fate led her to an amazing job at Mile High United Way Denver as Master Coach for the Colorado Reading Corps. Jessica is excited to be a part of such a successful program and looks forward to its growth and to impacting more students in Colorado! Favorite Band of 2001? Blink 182. How did Hopkins prepare you? Hopkins High School exposed me to a variety of opportunities that helped shape the person I am today. What Hopkins teacher made a difference in your life? My photography teacher, Mr. Fuhr, had a great impact on me. Not only is he an amazing teacher, he also had a way of validating my ideas and work, and always encouraged me to take risks.
What do you want students to walk away with? That their mindset and desire to work hard will determine their success.
Know someone we should feature on this page? Email Carrie.Gerard@HopkinsSchools.org
Elizabeth Pavlica: 1999 graduate Stats: Director of Media/Social Media at Evans Larson Communications, Minneapolis • B.A., PR/Mass Comm., University of Minnesota fun facts Elizabeth’s favorite part of her job at Evans Larson Communications in Minneapolis is developing new ways to incorporate social media and PR. As the Social Media director, Elizabeth provides communication planning, content strategy, and audience analysis for retail, small business, and national companies in digital and social media channels. She loves her position and says she has no plans to leave. Favorite hangout spot at Hopkins High School? The music department/band room. Favorite Band of 1999? Pink Floyd and Squirrel Nut Zippers. How did Hopkins prepare you? Being able to think outside the box and knowing where and how to start looking for answers. What Hopkins teacher made a difference in your life? Mr. Don Bates (band) was an inspiration and a role model who encouraged me to challenge myself to become not just a better musician, but also a better person all around.
Patty Acomb: 1984 graduate Stats: Newly re-elected to the Minnetonka City Council • B.S. Natural Resources Management, University of Minnesota fun facts Patty graduated from college and headed for the north woods to work with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Since then, she has re-connected with her childhood home in Minnetonka, where she now happily resides with her husband and two sons, who attend Eisenhower Elementary and West Junior High. Patty is thrilled to once again be part of the Hopkins Public Schools community. She previously held the position of naturalist at Eisenhower Elementary. Favorite hangout spot at Hopkins High School? The “senior steps,” outside the library. Favorite Musician from 1984? Prince. How did Hopkins prepare you? In high school, I took a Community Involvement class where I learned the benefit of giving back to my neighborhood. Since then, community involvement and public service have been a big part of my life. This class made a lifelong impact on me. Update December 2013/January 2014
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December/January Events
Food Allergy Resource Fair – Free resource fair, coupons, samples, vendors, ask-the-doctor, and more. All ages welcome. December 7, 9:00 a.m. - Noon Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Hwy. 7, Hopkins Blue Water Theatre – presents The Music Man December 5, 6, 7, at 7:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center Theater, tickets www.BlueWaterTheatre.com High School Choir Festival – Concert Choir, Small Ensembles December 9, 7:30 p.m. Hopkins High School Auditorium, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka High School Bands Concerts December 10, 6:30 p.m., Sophomore Band December 10, 8:00 p.m., Junior and Senior Band Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka Comet Week – FREE open-house viewing of the night sky. December 16-20, 5:30-7:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, HopkinsSchools.org/Observatory High School Winter Choir Concert – All Choirs December 19, 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Hopkins High School Auditorium, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka Frosty Fun – Come inside for winter-themed family fun activities! January 11, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Hopkins ECFE, information and to register, call 952-988-5046
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Eat what? How? Help! Current research on nutrition can be confusing. Sometimes the first step toward healthy eating is the hardest to make. Hopkins Community Education and Hopkins Public Schools’ Department of Nutrition and Lifestyle Services is offering Step Toward Better Nutrition.
N U A JNA U A ARR Y
Enrichment
This series is designed to motivate you to take small steps toward healthier eating, and provide you with the know-how to purchase and prepare healthy foods easily. Try hands-on healthy-living cooking classes, and more classes for improved health and wellness. Learn more at HopkinsCommunityEd.org
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H O P K I N S C O M M U N I T Y E D U C AT I O N
More than 25 new classes inside!
New: Hot workout trend –
experience BARRE Fitness! page 17
How much cash is your treasure worth? Appraise it! page 21
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The Big Easy right here – cooking New Orleans-style page 14 1
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Superintendent John Schultz Thanks Community On behalf of the Hopkins School Board, I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone who voted on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2013. Whether your vote was in support or opposition of the referendum questions, it is gratifying to be in a community where residents take the time and energy to get out and vote, as well as respond to the District’s request for support. I am blessed to serve in a school district where education is seen as a priority. Without question, this is a community that expects and supports excellence, as evidenced by the outcome of the Nov. 5 election. It is my hope that our voters realize that by voting yes, they are providing resources for Hopkins Public Schools to be at or above standards in curriculum, technology, security, and school nutrition. Children and families will have dynamic curriculum intertwined with state-
of-the-art technology. All campuses will be more secure 24/7, and the meals served even more nutritious. Every day, I have the opportunity to see these resources come alive through education. I get to witness the “ah-ha!” moment when a student comprehends the concept being taught and beams with pride. Our staff judiciously focuses these much-needed resources in educating children through a variety of dynamic, effective, and creative techniques. Your support of this referendum makes a difference in providing educational excellence for every school, every student, every day. I remain honored to be the Superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools. Our community’s response to these questions was largely positive. I attribute much of this positive attitude to the quality of our staff, and our combined commitment of excellence for all learners. With Gratitude,
John W. Schultz, Ph.D. Superintendent
We are a community that values education! Hopkins School Board Election Results
Warren Goodroad, Michael Doobie Kurus, and Betsy Scheurer Anderson were elected to serve on the Hopkins School Board, Nov. 5, 2013. Scheurer Anderson led the school board race, securing 23 percent of the vote. Goodroad and Kurus each earned about 20 percent of the vote. Kurus is serving his first term, and Goodroad and Scheurer Anderson are incumbents. Their terms are four years long and start January 2014. Current Board Chair Susan Wootten’s term expires at the end of 2013, but she chose not to run for re-election.