dates
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Spring Choir Concerts
2015 Community Book Read
Update
The community’s guide to the District.
March 2015
reading! Where Am I Eating? by Kelsey Timmerman; and How Did That Get in My Lunchbox?, by Lucia Gaggiotti. Kick off held at the Go Families Go free event on: March 14, 9:00 a.m.-noon Eisenhower Community Ctr. 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins HopkinsSchools.org/book
Meadowbrook receives multiple Readers’ Choice Awards, including Best Public School
The Sun Newspaper 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards special section was published on Jan. 22. In addition to Meadowbrook Elementary being awarded Best Public School, Principal Greta Evans-Becker was named Best Principal, secondgrade teacher Justin Thorvilson was named Best Teacher, and the Meadowbrook PTA was voted Best PTA. The Golden Valley Sun Newspaper readers also named Hopkins Stepping Stones Preschool as Best Preschool. Stepping Stones is a year-round, year-before-kindergarten preschool located at Meadowbrook.
D’Lisa Campbell receives MnSACA 2015 Award of Excellence
At the Minnesota Association for the Education of Young Children and the Minnesota School-Age Care Alliance (MnSACA) 2015 State Conference, D’Lisa Campbell (above left) was among four individuals who were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the fields of early childhood and school-age care. Campbell, Hopkins Public Schools Lead Supervisor for Kids & Company at Eisenhower, received the MnSACA 2015 Award of Excellence.
Community Showcase
Realtor Event An evening of beautiful music 3 CEUs! Realtors, join us to learn performed by Hopkins High about Hopkins Public Schools and School choir students. the cities of Minnetonka, Golden 6:15 p.m.- Men’s Chorus, Valley, and Hopkins. Presented in Women’s Chorus, Geoff, and partnership with the Minneapolis Midori. 8:00 p.m.- Kantorei, Bel Area Association of Realtors. Canto, Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, and Sophomore Chorale. March 5, 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Hopkins High School March 5, 6:15–9:00 p.m. 2400 Lindbergh Dr., Minnetonka Hopkins High School 2400 Lindbergh Dr., Minnetonka Register: MplsRealtor.com
Let’s get the whole family
Hopkins Public Schools
com m u ni t y
Hopkins Advanced Placement (AP) Program Enhanced by Partnership with National College Board Five Hopkins teachers serve as national Advanced Placement exam readers Flip through the high school course catalog and it’s clear that Hopkins High School has a strong AP (Advanced Placement) program. Many of the teachers who fuel this powerhouse program have sought out additional training with the National College Board, a non-profit organization that prepares students for college success. Because of this partnership, Hopkins High School is home to some of the best-prepared, highly trained AP teachers in the state, if not the nation. “Our AP program is strong,” said John Sammler, AP coordinator at Hopkins High School. “We offer 21 AP courses and the teachers who teach them are passionate about the subjects they teach.” AP courses are intensely rigorous, college-level classes. They are attractive because students can earn college credit by taking an AP exam and earning a score of three or better. The essay portions of these exams are scored by national AP exam readers who have the responsibility of ensuring that students receive scores that accurately reflect college-level achievement. Five Hopkins AP teachers are among the teachers and professors from across the country who currently serve as national AP exam readers — John Sammler, Jennifer Heimlich, John Unruh-Friesen, Felicia Homberger, and Jeff Kocur — and a handful more have previously served in this capacity.
Historically, Hopkins High School has had more exam readers than any other district in Minnesota. The current Hopkins National AP exam readers are Jeff Kocur, John Unruh-Friesen, John Sammler, (left to right, back row) Felicia Homberger, and Jennifer Heimlich (front row, left to right).
Every time I read an essay, I say to myself, this could be one of my students. I am getting a slice of the nation and a real understanding of how my students
In order to be accepted, teachers must have a master’s degree and three years of AP teaching experience, and even then they require an invitation from the National College Board. Enhanced value to the AP program Having AP exam readers involved in the Hopkins AP program creates relevant curriculum that is closely aligned with the expectations of the National College Board. Students have the ability to leverage this opportunity to jump start their post-secondary track. Teachers who participate in the AP exam-reading process inevitably come back to the classroom with a fresh perspective and a better understanding of how to present their curriculum.
are stacking up.
Competitive application process Scoring AP exams is a high-stakes endeavor that involves more college professors than high school teachers — the ratio is about 60/40 respectively. There are only about 5,000 AP exam readers nationwide in all subject areas. Historically, Hopkins High School has had one of the strongest turnouts in Minnesota. Before teachers are able to contribute their time and talents as AP exam readers, they must undergo a rigorous vetting process.
“Every time I read an essay, I say to myself, this could be one of my students,” said Hopkins AP history teacher John Unruh-Friesen. “I am getting a slice of the nation and a real understanding of how my students are stacking up.” Last year, 603 students took at least one AP exam, and of those students, 70 percent earned a score of three or higher. Regardless of the AP exam test score, nearly all students who take an AP class benefit. They see Advanced Placement inside
Genius Team Students Share their Expertise at Hopkins State of the City The State of the City is an opportunity for citizens and business owners to learn more about the workings of the city of Hopkins in a relaxed setting. The event was free and open to the public. Speakers who participated in the State of the City included Mayor Gene Maxwell and Council Members Kristi Halverson, Aaron Kuznia, Molly Cummings, and Jason Gadd.
Student from the Junior High Genius Team assists a community member using an iPad.
The Genius Teams from Hopkins North Junior High and West Junior High were in attendance at the Hopkins State of the City assembly on Thursday, Jan. 29, doing what they do best — sharing their knowledge of and passion for technology.
The Genius Team participated in the quiz section of the presentation, handing out iPads, troubleshooting technical errors, and engaging members of the community. Many audience members who received assistance from the Genius Team students were very impressed with their knowledge of technology. “Students approach technology differently from adults,” said Ben Friesen, digital content specialist
at West Junior High. “They are comfortable with trial and error and just jump in. There are times when we help guide them in the approach or application of a tool, but the teachers can also learn a lot by standing back and giving them room to experiment.”
About the Genius Team The Genius Team is a group of technology savvy junior-high students from North Junior High and West Junior High who support teachers and students with Hopkins digital curriculum. They assist technology specialists, provide technology support for their peers, and provide feedback on educational apps. Students go through an extensive application and training process to become members of the Genius Team.
Advanced Placement, continued from cover can experience a college-level course in a safe environment and leave with an accurate selfassessment of their strengths as a student. National AP readers spend a week in June scoring AP exams in their subject areas. It’s a grueling process that involves reading and scoring over 1,000 essays a week — or up to 140 a day. Those who participate continue to do so because of the increased value it brings to their instruction and the student experience. “It’s the best professional development that you could possibly imagine,” said Unruh-Friesen. “If you know how the AP test is graded, you understand the rules of the game better. Our Hopkins staff is invested in learning those rules and bringing them back to our students.” Leadership roles with the National College Board Unruh-Friesen has participated in AP exam scoring for the last 10 years. He was recently recruited by the National College Board to serve as a Certified College Board trainer. He is now teaching summer classes at Carleton College explaining the fundamentals of teaching an AP class to a varied group of students, including both new and veteran teachers and even one state legislator.
Hopkins Community Education
Felicia Homberger, AP language arts teacher, has nine years experience as an AP reader, and has also taken a leadership role within the National College Board. She currently serves as a table reader, training other AP readers in her subject area of English. Being closely involved with the National College Board has helped her prepare students not only for the test, but also for postsecondary life. “This process keeps me close to the college level,” said Homberger. “I hear from professors, and know the skills they want students to have in order to be prepared for college. It’s more than just preparing students for a test.” More depth and relevancy One of the ways Hopkins prepares students for college is by offering a variety of AP courses. Appealing to students’ passions is the hallmark of the Hopkins AP program. Several years ago, coordinators began testing new classes to attract a more diverse student body. AP World History was added to provide a perspective beyond AP European History. Spanish AP courses are now being offered as part of the Juntos Secondary Spanish Immersion track. In addition, attention is always given to student and parent interest. Due to increasing demand and interest, this year
Building a great place to live
Go Families Go! Free family fun.
Saturday, March 14, 9:00 am-noon
Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Hwy. 7, Hopkins Explore all the amazing opportunities available to families in our community at this free family event. Enjoy games, cooking, drama, sports, face-painting, art, math, and more. Learn more about Hopkins Community Education programs, HopkinsMinnetonka Recreation Services, city programs, library programs, Hopkins Police & Fire, Hopkins Center for the Arts, and more. Register to win! Enter for a chance to win a free week of youth Camp Royal, Hop-Kids, or Kids & Company; or a spring adult or youth enrichment class. Bring the family for a morning of fun!
Hopkins added AP Physics and AP Computer Science, and AP English Literature and Composition is starting next year. “If the demand is there, we are going to try to make it happen,” said Sammler. “Our philosophy is to find ways to make students as successful as possible and as excited as possible.”
More ways Hopkins students can earn college credit College in the Schools
CIS
In addition to offering a competitive AP program, Hopkins Public Schools offers six College in the Schools courses. Students who take and pass these classes earn the equivalent number of college credits from the University of Minnesota. In the 2013-14 school year, 366 Hopkins students registered for College in the Schools classes. Together, they earned 1,775 credits. If students had to pay the usual University of Minnesota college tuition for these credits, the cost incurred would have been $823,000.
HopkinsCommunityEd.org Parent Education
Together we read!
2015 Community Book Read Join together to read the book Where Am I Eating?, by Kelsey Timmerman, with stories of the farmers and fishermen around the world who produce the food we eat. And a kids’ read, How Did That Get in My Lunchbox?, by Lucia Gaggiotti. The Book Read kicks off at the Go Families Go (left) event on March 14. HopkinsSchools.org/book
From the Superintendent, John Schultz, Ph.D.
Honoring our Volunteers
Superintendent John Schultz volunteering his time for Empty Bowls.
I distinctly remember when I was a third-grader and the local dentists donated their time in my elementary school to offer free dental exams. I believe that, as a result of those free exams, many of my classmates have healthier teeth today. I know I do. It is always amazing what adults remember about their schooling. It is the gifts of time and talents that create a memory and a unique learning opportunity. Generosity, philanthropy, and kindness are values of Hopkins Public Schools.
A community of volunteers It remains amazing to me how our parents roll up their sleeves and offer to help with anything that needs to be done in our schools. Serving on parent groups, clearing buckthorn, painting school walls, building playgrounds, organizing a school carnival, and providing meals to the school community, Hopkins parents model to our youth — and the rest of the community — the impact volunteering has on others. Hopkins community leaders also contribute their time and skills every day! Adult mentors, senior citizens, and community volunteers read to kids, help solve math problems, assist students with projects, and support staff in their lesson preparations. A common observation by our volunteers is how thirsty for learning our young and adult learners are who are new to this country. They are enthusiastic about learning English and the ins and outs of American culture. Our volunteers should be given some credit for developing bilingual speakers. Outside organizations enter the doors of our schools ready to provide resources and time. Local faith communities have designated days for their groups to assist in projects throughout the community. Civic groups like Rotary, The Lions, Elks, Masons, Optimists, and City Councils (the list goes on … ) are always available to assist students financially through scholarships, or our schools with special projects. These groups are also the first to recognize the academic and extracurricular activities of students and teams. The Hopkins Education Foundation HEF (Hopkins Education Foundation) is another group that is successful at giving back. This organization has awarded over $2 million to Hopkins Public Schools and its students, and HEF works hard with the professional staff to identify engaging activities and cutting-edge learning opportunities for Hopkins students. It has a rich history of providing teachers with the technology tools they need in order to provide dynamic and innovative instruction that is student centered. HEF continues to collaborate with staff to provide resources to learners that will have an impact on their future. Hopkins Public Schools is embedded in a community of very generous and philanthropic citizens. Just like my memory of free dental care and “Mr. Molar” visiting my third-grade classroom, the generosity and kindness of the Hopkins community is building memories as it educates its learners. Sincerely,
John W. Schultz, Ph.D. Superintendent
Know a ‘Royal’ volunteer? We would like to spotlight our dedicated Hopkins volunteers in the Update newsletter. Please tell us about a Hopkins Public Schools volunteer you know! Contact Carrie Gerard: Carrie.Gerard@HopkinsSchools.org
Hopkins High School Receives 26 Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards Hopkins High School art and photography students won an impressive 26 Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards (nine Gold Key, four Silver Key, and 13 Honorable Mentions). Students who received the Gold Key and Silver Key had their winning pieces exhibited at the Regis Center for Art at the University of Minnesota. Honorable Mentions were displayed digitally. A Scholastic Art Awards Ceremony was held on Feb. 21 at the University of Minnesota’s Weisman Art Museum. The Minnesota Scholastic Art Award is the highest art recognition for high school students. Hopkins Gold Key award recipients: Isabelle Bergman, Drawing & Painting Rachel Colestock, Drawing & Painting Alyssa Resnick, Photography Anne Goodroad, Photography Jonathan Clay (two awards), Ceramics Hannah Senser, Ceramics Sam Greenwald, Ceramics Lauret Wilson, Ceramics
Gold Key winner: Jonathan Clay
Hopkins Silver Key award recipients: Nayeli Briones, Drawing & Painting Ian Eltringham, Drawing & Painting Sam Schultz, Drawing & Painting Sophie Holm, Drawing & Painting Honorable Mentions: Tori Bloch, Drawing & Painting Isabelle Bergman, Drawing & Painting Ian Eltringham, Drawing & Painting Anna Hall, Drawing & Painting Sophie Holm, Drawing & Painting Elissa Marble, Drawing & Painting Emma Grace Reese, Drawing & Painting Elle Tigner, Photography Sam Greenwald, Ceramics Rachel Lee, Ceramics Ava Hazelmyer, Jewelry
Gold Key: Hannah Senser
Silver Key winner: Sophia Holm
ResourceWest Welcomes Molly Link as New Executive Director
Newly appointed executive director, Molly Link, comes to ResourceWest with a fresh perspective and an abundance of knowledge gained through years of experience.
“She is truly dedicated to the vision of ResourceWest and comes to the position with a wealth of community experience,” said Hopkins Public Schools community partnerships coordinator, Barb Westmoreland. After studying psychology, Link found her true calling in social work and completed her Master’s at Augsburg College. Before joining ResourceWest, she was program manager at Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People (VEAP) and then served as the program director at People Reaching out to People (PROP). As executive director, Link plans to work closely with the community, aiming to minimize the gap between donors and the clients. In order to guarantee a high standard of service, one of her first big to-do items is to expand her staff from one full-time social worker to two. “ResourceWest is committed to helping everyone on their journey,” said Link. “I look forward to seeing where that journey takes us.”
District Life Changer
Felicia Homberger
In her fourteen years teaching AP (Advanced Placement) Language and Composition at Hopkins, Felicia Homberger never stopped exploring opportunities for growth — for the AP (Advanced Placement) program, her students, colleagues, and for herself. Known for their rigor, AP classes require a high level of dedication from students and commitment from teachers.
“Ms. Homberger is one of the most influential teachers I’ve ever come into contact with,” said former student Peter Makey. “She does an exceptional job preparing her students, not only to write at a high level, but to think critically, which prepares them to advance in their academic careers and beyond with great confidence.” Homberger has gone above and beyond, serving as an AP exam reader (scorer) for the last nine years, and more recently as an AP exam table leader, which in addition to scoring, requires instructing fellow AP readers on how to score the AP exams. “As an AP reader/table leader, I’m always excited to bring back information gleaned from scoring the exams, and interfacing with college professors and AP high school teachers from across the country,” said Homberger. “What I learn enhances our AP Composition course each year.” Background: After graduating from college, Homberger worked in Sharon, Mass. to help launch a grant-funded program to infuse community service into the curriculum. She loved working with high school students, so she went back to get her Master’s in education, along with a teaching license. Although she is a Milwaukee native, she always held the Minnesota school system in high regard. Homberger was most impressed by the climate for student learning at Hopkins High School. What do you love most about working at Hopkins Public Schools? The amazing colleagues I get to work with and learn from. There are so many talented teachers in Hopkins. I also love the freedom we get to be creative and the trust we get to do what we feel best meets our students’ needs. Proudest moments? The most amazing benefit of this job is that so many students have touched my life and made me feel my work makes a difference. I think the best thing is having students return from college and tell me that they felt more prepared for college-level writing than their peers. To hear them say that what I taught them has benefitted them is the best compliment they could give me. Achievements that make you a life changer? As an AP Language and Composition teacher, I am proud that our team has had 90-98 percent of our students pass the national AP exam for the last 15 years. In my role as staff development coordinator, I brought Dr. Sharroky Hollie to our District after seeing him at a conference. Currently, 75 percent of our teaching staff have gone through Dr. Hollie’s Culturally Responsive instructional coaching Teaching philosophy? I believe that I can always be a better teacher, and that my students can always be better writers. What makes my job exciting is that we all are continually learning and growing. Stats: • BA - English Literature, Brandeis University, MA - Harvard Graduate School of Education. Currently, Felicia is a High School Language Arts teacher and the High School Staff Development Coordinator. Homberger has been an AP exam reader for nine years, and is now an AP exam table leader. She is also consulting with Dr. Sharroky Hollie as an instructional coach in Culturally Responsive Teaching and Learning.
Where are they now?
LeRoy Gardner III : 1999 graduate
Stats: Owner, Soul Ruckus Athletics, Texas, and runs a web, IT, and security business, and Officer-U.S. Navy Reserve • BA-Psychology, Wartburg College, MBA-Finance, U of Rhode Island fun facts LeRoy has spent time on the wrestling mat competing, winning national championships, and later coaching. He was the first NCAA Heavyweight National Champion in history for Iowa’s Wartburg College. He presently owns Soul Ruckus Athletics, a fitness facility, in Katy, TX, with his wife, and applies his athletic experience to helping others discover health and fitness. LeRoy served as an Officer in the U.S. Navy, and recently returned from Afghanistan, currently remaining in the Reserves. LeRoy’s next move is to expand his web development business. Favorite hangout at Hopkins High School? The wrestling room! Favorite Band of 1999? Earth, Wind, & Fire. What Hopkins teacher made a difference? Al Price, Jacques Youakim, Ron McClure, Ms. LeeDohse, and Dr. Franke. Mostly because they really showed they cared about me, the things I was interested in, and the future me. How did Hopkins prepare you? I was glad for the diversity and a wide variety of options for interests.
New Reflections Andrea Sjogren
A new face in the District, Andrea Sjogren recently joined the Hopkins Community Education team, stepping into the role of adult and youth programs coordinator. She has chalked up many years in the field of community education, and during that time recognized Hopkins as a premier community education program, but never dreamed she would one day be a part of the team. With a Master’s in education, and a community education director’s license, Andrea is delighted to bring her passion for lifelong learning, community engagement, and student success to Hopkins. Who inspired you to become involved with community education? I have been, and still am, inspired by so many great people I have encountered in community education throughout my life who have made me who I am and impacted my career on every level. What energizes you about working at Hopkins? The supportive and inclusive community here, the adults and young people I interact with daily, and the great team of colleagues. If your job were a reality show, what would it be called? Dream Job — not because I know the content of the show, but because … it really is! Hidden passions or talents? I am passionate about the arts and making art accessible to our community. I have taught dance for 20 years, serve on the board of directors for two arts organizations, and am pursuing a second Master’s in arts and cultural leadership. I am also a master gardener and love volunteering my time. Sunrise or sunset? Sunset, definitely.
Know someone we should feature on this page? Email Carrie.Gerard@HopkinsSchools.org
Janine (Larson) Petersen: 2002 graduate Stats: Senior Interior Designer, CorePower Yoga • BFA-Interior Design, University of Wisconsin, Stout
fun facts Janine travels the 50 states to CorePower’s 120+ yoga studios to ensure that they are being built according to plan, and running correctly. Minnesota is one of her biggest regions with 13 studios! Recently, Janine became a mom to her daughter, Hazel Jean. Beyond continuing her work with CorePower Yoga, Janine looks forward to completing their Teacher Training program so she can learn more about herself and share the gift of yoga with others. Favorite hangout at Hopkins High School? The Mall. Favorite Band of 2002? N’Sync! What Hopkins teacher made a difference? I struggled with math at times, but Mr. Bartz made it fun by getting students to laugh. I’ll never forget his daily memory game that we added onto all the time — I can only imagine how long it is now. How did Hopkins prepare you? The counselors showed me the importance of having career goals along with activities and AP courses for college admission, which set a solid path for my future.
Laura Nelson: 2006 graduate Stats: Sub-editor, Oxford Business Group, Istanbul, Turkey • BA, Political Science & French Literature, Boston College; MSc, Finance & Strategy, Sciences Po; MSc, International Management, Fundação Getulio Vargas Since graduating, Laura has worked and studied in Boston, Madrid, Paris, Cairo, São Paulo, and now Istanbul, with a focus on financial communications and business intelligence. She continues to find exposure to other cultures enriching and has collected some interesting experiences along the way — including getting tear-gassed in Tahrir Square during the Egyptian revolution in 2011 and sitting third-row at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil with her family. Favorite hangout at Hopkins High School? The music department. Favorite Band of 2006? The Shins. What Hopkins teacher made a difference? Mr. Youakim, Ms. Tycast, and Mr. Unruh-Friesen — they each helped me to cultivate intellectual curiosity, a passion for life-long learning, and self-acceptance. How did Hopkins prepare you? Hopkins allowed me to really choose my own field of interest for the first time. The balance between creativity and discipline that Hopkins encouraged is something that is still so central to my life. Update March 2015
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 161 Hopkins, MN 55343
March Events Realtors – earn 3 CEUs – Community Showcase Realtor Event Join us to learn about Hopkins Public Schools and the cities of Golden Valley, Hopkins, and Minnetonka. Register: mplsrealtor.com March 5, 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Dr., Minnetonka Kids & Company 2015 School-Year Registration – Kids & Company provides high-quality school-age care before- and after-school, on school vacation days, and during summer. Plan now for Spring Break. Register online: HopkinsCommunityEd.org/Kids or call 952-988-4080. Go Families Go! Free Family Fun – Explore the amazing opportunities available to families. Activities, face painting, and more. Details inside. March 14, 9:00 a.m. -12:00 noon Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Hwy. 7, Hopkins. 952-988-4070. JazzMN Orchestra presents Pete Christlieb, tenor saxophonist March 15, 3:00 p.m. Hopkins High School Auditorium • Tickets and details: jazzmn.org Twin Cities Bead Bazaar – Spring Show! 30+ vendors. $3 entrance fee. March 21 and 22, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Hwy. 7, Hopkins. Visit beadsbydee.com Empty Bowls Fundraiser – Celebrate community and support the ICA Foodshelf and ResourceWest. More details at HopkinsSchools.org/bowls March 24, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins
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Enchanted Stars
Little Girls & their Favorite Guy
Friday, March 13, 6:30 p.m.
Create special memories at the Enchanted Stars Dance! Girls, ages 4-12, and their dad, uncle, grandfather, or family friend will enjoy a magical evening together with refreshments, dancing to a DJ, photo opportunities, and more! Bling Shop treasures and pizza will be available for purchase. $24 per adult/child pair.
Details and to register: www.HopkinsCommunityEd.org
Empty Bowls, Full Hearts — Bringing the Community Together for a Cause on March 24
See all of the bowls made during the session on display at the Empty Bowls event from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24 at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. Also, be sure to check out the beautiful bowls and art donated by professional potters available for bidding at the silent auction.
Long-time Empty Bowls supporter, Joan Van de Kamp (left), gets bowl-making tips from a Hopkins High School AP ceramics student.
On March 24, Empty Bowls in Hopkins will celebrate its 17th year of helping those in need in our community. Over the previous 16 years, the Hopkins community has raised a total of $862,025 for the event, which benefits ICA Foodshelf and ResourceWest. Preparation for Empty Bowls is underway — on Feb. 11, members of the community gathered to make bowls at Hopkins High School with the help of some talented AP (Advanced Placement) art students. From members of the Hopkins City Council to this year’s Empty Bowls community co-chair, Woody Love, everyone had a chance to take a turn at the wheel and create their own bowl to donate to the Empty Bowls fundraiser.
You Can Help! Join this community fundraiser on March 24. Choose a free handmade bowl, eat a simple meal of donated soup and bread, enjoy a variety of entertainment, and, if you are able, make a generous free-will donation.
About ResourceWest:
ResourceWest is a responsive communitybased organization. Their goal is to build a healthier and stronger community by connecting individuals and families to programs and services available to meet their needs. ResourceWest coordinates annual drives for school supplies, winter coats, and holiday gifts for families in need. It also provides the following services on site — a computer center, community meeting rooms, Relate Counseling services, Hennepin Economic Assistance Outreach, and Accountability MN’s tax preparation services. www.resourcewest.org • 952-933-3860
Hopkins elementary students make bowls during their school day to donate to Empty Bowls. A student shows off her creation.
For more information about the Empty Bowls fundraiser, or to make a donation visit HopkinsSchools.org/Bowls
About ICA Foodshelf:
With the goal of self-sufficiency, ICA Foodshelf’s mission is to provide food and other assistance to every member of the local community who finds themselves struggling to make ends meet. ICA provides several services to support community members. Foodshelf services (by appointment) offer supplemental foods to individuals or families. Financial assistance is available for help with rent, utilities, or mortgage expenses. A wide range of employment assistance services offers help with job search tools, interviewing skills, and employment networking strategies. www.icafoodshelf.org • 952-938-0729