dates
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Orchestra Spring Concert
Hopkins Student Survey Results
Update Hopkins Public Schools
The community’s guide to the District.
North students hear from holocaust survivors’ daughter
May 2017
com m u ni t y
Come and hear the highlights of the 2016 Student Survey. Free and open to the public. Thursday, May 11, 6:30-8 p.m. Hopkins High School Cafeteria 2400 Lindbergh Drive Minnetonka
All ensembles perform in this beautiful evening of orchestral music. Thursday, May 18, 7:30-9 p.m. Hopkins High School 2400 Lindbergh Drive Minnetonka
Hopkins High School Graduation Congratulations to the graduating class of 2017! Thursday, June 1, 7:15 p.m. Hopkins High School 2400 Lindbergh Drive Minnetonka Ticket is required for admission.
Questions? Call 952-988-4323
Partnership Connects Students to their Libraries Building lifelong learning through technology, educational spaces, and books
Iris Tzafrir, a Twin Cities resident, shared the story of her parents, both survivors of the Holocaust, with North Junior High eighthgraders on March 21. She talked about her family history and shared lessons on how to stand up against discrimination. Tzafrir is the parent of a North student. Hopkins student receives gold medal from the National Scholastic Art Awards
Hopkins High School student Car Thie (grade 12) won a National Scholastic Art Award for his sculpture entitled “On Masculinity.” Thie received a gold medal, the highest honor high school art students can receive. His artwork will be shipped to New York City where it will be on display during a National Ceremony in June at Carnegie Hall. The National Scholastic Art Awards is the national component of the Minnesota Scholastic Art Award competition. This year, Hopkins students won 32 Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards (four Gold Key, 10 Silver Key, and 18 Honorable Mentions).
In a world where electronic media is king, you might think a room dedicated to books would be at risk for extinction. You would be wrong. Hopkins media centers leverage technology to create dynamic spaces for learning, reflecting, creating, and yes, even reading real books. A partnership with Hennepin County Library provides even more learning experiences to students — from access to databases to after-school enrichment and homework help. It’s all part of a goal to foster lifelong learning and lifelong library users.
Robin Price, media specialist at West Junior High (left) works with students to set up their Hennepin County Library accounts
magazines that Hennepin County Library already provides Leveraging technology and resources access to. All schools are free to discontinue redundant Technology in media centers is not a new concept. subscriptions and use the funds elsewhere in their libraries. These spaces have long offered students a place where A change in readership habits they can go to conduct research, connect to Wi-Fi, Increased access to online resources has changed how and access multimedia materials. As Hopkins students students prefer to obtain information. They are more traded textbooks for devices, media likely to use internet databases to conduct their centers underwent their own research, but they still appreciate physical books transformations. In 2015, Hopkins If we can get for reading fiction. This means Jen Legatt, a was one of the first districts in media specialist at North Junior High, no longer Minnesota to participate in the our kids connected purchases encyclopedias, which are outdated White House sponsored ConnectED with the library, as soon as they are printed. With more room challenge through a partnership with available on the library shelf, she is able to create Hennepin County Library. Hopkins then during the more engaging experiences for students, focusing was chosen as a partnering school on the fiction and topic-based books they enjoy district because of its robust 1:1 summer, they feel reading. digital environment. “I love this partnership,” said Robin Price, media specialist at West Junior High. “Hennepin County Library has been awesome every step of the way.”
supported. They know Hennepin County Library is a resource.
As part of the collaboration, all Hopkins students now have active Hennepin County Library cards. The junior high media centers led the way in this effort and became a testing ground for other schools. Because of the 1:1 digital device initiative, junior high students were already using apps like OverDrive to check out books and other materials electronically. Having access to Hennepin County Library’s resources expands these opportunities and allows for cost savings where there is overlap. North Junior High alone subscribes to nine databases and several
“Students overall prefer paper books for fiction,” Legatt said. “They spend enough time plugged in for other reasons. In many ways, books provide an escape from technology.”
Managing the details The strength of the library partnership is the commitment from both organizations to navigate potentially complicated issues like data privacy. Without library cards, students cannot take advantage of the expanded learning opportunities offered through the partnership, yet anyone who knows a junior-high student knows that they are prone to lose things — like their library cards. Hopkins wanted to store the library cards assigned to students in case they were lost or forgotten, but the barcodes are proprietary information, and Hennepin County Library did not have a policy that allowed for Hopkins staff to have this access. Eventually, the two organizations found a solution in storing the information in each student’s school profile, a system that is also classified as data private. “Data privacy was one of our biggest, most complicated issues,” said Price. “Hennepin County Library would not share this information without knowing it was going into the right hands. It was essential that we had buy-in from see Partnership Connects Students to their Libraries inside
Minnesota Student Survey Results Reflect Positively for Hopkins The overwhelming majority of Hopkins students feel safe in school, report that their teachers care, and abstain from drugs and alcohol. These findings were revealed in the 2016 Minnesota Student Survey, a reflection of the overall wellbeing of our youth. The survey is administered every three years to Minnesota students in grades 5, 8, 9, and 11, and covers a broad array of topics, including school and community, safety, substance use, and mental health. In 2016, 169,000 students participated in the survey statewide. “The Minnesota Student Survey is an important tool that allows students to anonymously share how they are feeling, and what they are thinking and experiencing,” said Holly Magdanz, Hopkins One Voice Coalition coordinator. “By identifying both positive findings and areas of concern, as a community we can better respond to the changing needs of our youth.” Mark your calendar for the 2016 Minnesota Student Survey results If you would like more in-depth information on the 2016 Minnesota Student Survey results, please plan to attend a community presentation and discussion, led by the Hopkins One Voice Coalition. The presentation will be held on Thursday, May 11, from 6:30-8 p.m., at Hopkins High School in the cafeteria.
The 2016 data from grades 5, 8, 9, and 11 provides many reasons for Hopkins to celebrate, including: Over 90% of Hopkins students care about doing well in school. The majority of students (over 93% across the grades) feel safe in school. In fact, between 2013 and 2016, all grades surveyed showed an increase in students “strongly agreeing” or “agreeing” that they feel safe at school.
Mental health emerges as a primary concern for students Between 2013 and 2016, the percent of students self-reporting a long-term mental health, behavioral, or emotional health problem noticeably increased among 8th-, 9th-, and 11th-graders. This trend was reflected both at Hopkins and statewide. Girls showed markedly higher rates of mental health concerns than boys across all mental health indicators in the survey.
Hopkins students agree that their teachers care about them. The majority of Hopkins students are abstaining from marijuana, alcohol, and other drugs. Since 2001, which is the earliest survey data available, 9th-grade substance use for Hopkins has shown impressive and steady declines. • Past 30-day cigarette use for 9th-graders declined from 14% in 2001, to 2% in 2016 • Past 30-day alcohol use for 9th-graders declined from 22% in 2001, to 7% in 2016 • Past 30-day marijuana use for 9th-graders declined from 13% in 2001, to 7% in 2016
Additional areas of concern E-cigarettes were first added to the survey in 2016, and 14% of 11th-graders at Hopkins reported using an e-cig in the past 30 days. Distracted driving remains a concern. Of 11th-graders who drive at Hopkins, 33% reported they “sometimes” send or read text messages while driving, and 12% reported they “often” or “always” do so. Questions? Contact One Voice coordinator, Holly Magdanz, at 952-988-4323 or email holly.magdanz@hopkinsschools.org.
Partnership Connects Students to their Libraries, continued from cover senior leadership, and a library-minded culture with full-time media specialists.”
them through the library and also to get them to physically go there. So far it’s working.
A place to belong Both Hopkins and Hennepin County want students to explore the resources available to
Hennepin County Library’s Homework Help program is bursting at the seams. Last May, when attendance typically drops, it increased as new students took advantage of the in-person tutoring program. In addition to Homework Help, North and West junior high students have been participating in a teen after-school library enrichment program at Ridgedale Library.
Two Hopkins students make Shrinky Dink art at the Ridgedale Library after-school program.
Hopkins Community Education Adult Enrichment
Hennepin County Library supervises the program and pays for an activity bus to transport students. Students spend about two hours engaged in a variety of educational and fun activities. They play games, work on art projects, listen to speakers, and read books.
Building a great place to live
Hello, summer!
Hopkins Community Education is in full bloom with fresh spring and summer classes to help you craft new culinary experiences, boost wellness, strengthen your body, prep your financial future, explore music and dance, discover your artistic talents, bring out your professional best, and more!
“I love going to the after-school library program,” said Annika Widenhoefer, a North Junior High eighth-grader. “I like to come here and unwind.” The teen enrichment program runs from October through March on Tuesdays. About 30 students participate between both junior highs. It gives students a place to hang out and participate in a non-traditional after-school activity, with the idea that they will continue to use the library during the summer when school is not in session. “If we can get our kids connected with the library resources, then during the summer, they feel supported,” Price said. “They know Hennepin County Library is a resource. They are comfortable checking out books on OverDrive, and they feel comfortable going to the library.”
Daddy & Me!
FREE fun reading event at your local police station!
Dads, grandpas, uncles, and friends with children newborn to 5 years — join us to explore the police or fire stations, listen to police officers read stories, and more!
Shake off your same routine and spark a new passion while connecting with others who share your interests.
Friday, May 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Minnetonka Police & Fire Station, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka Thursday, June 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Hopkins Police Station, 1010 - 1st Street South, Hopkins
Start your summer adventure! HopkinsCommunityEd.org
Questions? Call Hopkins Early Childhood Programs: 952-988-5000 or email Kathryn.Moore@HopkinsSchools.org
Hopkins Selects West Junior High Principal Hopkins Public Schools is pleased to announce that Leanne Kampfe will be the next principal of West Junior High. Her position will begin at the start of the contract year in July 2017. She will replace the current principal Shirley Gregoire, who is retiring at the end of this year. Kampfe has deep roots in Hopkins, and in particular at West Junior High. Although she served as the assistant principal at Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis for the past three years, the majority of her 20-year career in education has been with Hopkins, both in elementary and secondary roles. From 2000 to 2007, she served as a music instructor at Tanglen Elementary and then became the vocal music director at West Junior High. She took on the role of assistant dean at West from 2012 to 2014. “We feel fortunate to be able to welcome Leanne back to Hopkins,” said Nik Lightfoot, assistant superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools. “Leanne brings with her the knowledge, skills, and talents that will help us continue the strong level of leadership the West Junior High community expects. Throughout our selection process, it was clear that Leanne exemplifies Hopkins’ mission of excellence.” Kampfe’s experience at West makes her uniquely qualified to be the next principal. She was involved in several key initiatives that continue to shape the future of the school, including authorizing the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program, implementing the digital curriculum initiative, and the expanding of the secondary Chinese immersion program. She is known for being a strong leader who is exceptionally organized and committed to equity. Her experience at Roosevelt provided her with a wide array of administrative experiences, and she is excited to bring those talents to a community that has always felt like home. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to collaborate with the talented staff and serve the wonderful families and children at West Junior High,” Kampfe said. “I especially anticipate working with students, as the interaction with kids is what makes education a calling for me.” Kampfe has a bachelor’s degree in music from Northern State University and a master’s degree in music education from the University of Minnesota. This spring, she expects to complete a doctoral program in educational leadership at Hamline University. In her spare time, Kampfe enjoys running, traveling, reading, going to movies, and spending time with family and friends. She is married to her husband Julian, and together they have two dogs, Daisy and Button.
Superintendent Search Update Superintendent John Schultz accepted the Edina superintendent position in March and will be leaving Hopkins Public Schools at the end of June. At the April 4 School Board meeting, the Hopkins School Board selected School Exec Connect to lead its search for the next superintendent. The District’s goal is to have a superintendent hired and in place by July 1, 2017. Over the next few weeks, the consultants will engage with board members, school staff, parents, students, and community members to determine the challenges, strengths, and goals of our District, as well as what characteristics or skills the community would like to see in a superintendent. Stay informed You can stay informed of our process by visiting the webpage: HopkinsSchools.org/superintendent-search
Empty Bowls Raises $70,474 for ResourceWest and ICA Food Shelf
The talents of local artists, Hopkins students and staff, and community members were on display at the 19th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser.
The 19th-annual Empty Bowls fundraiser was a strong success, raising a total of $70,474 for ResourceWest and ICA Food Shelf. Held on March 7 at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, the event drew community members of all ages who came out to enjoy a simple meal of soup and bread, pottery, and local entertainment. “We want to thank everyone in our community for mixing in your ‘special ingredients’ to make our 19th-annual Empty Bowls fundraiser a great success,” said Hopkins Public School volunteer coordinator Barb Westmoreland. “Your support helps to ensure that no one’s bowl goes empty in our community.” This year’s recipe for success included: • 1,340 bowls created by Hopkins Public Schools students, staff, and community potters • 34 art, music, and elementary teachers from Hopkins Public Schools • 318 volunteers and 302 entertainers of all ages • 54 fine art pieces for the silent auction • 1,517 servings of soup and bread • 40 sponsors of in-kind services
Royal Bash Fundraiser Brings In $181,200 for Hopkins Students The Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) hosted its 18th-annual Royal Bash on Feb. 25 at the Minnetonka Marriott. The Mardi Gras-themed event drew 400 supporters and raised Royal Bash guests enjoy the Mardi Gras$181,200 for grants and inspired photo booth. special projects that directly benefit Hopkins Public Schools students.
Chef Seth Bixby Daugherty prepared dinner, and entertainment was provided by local musicians, a magician, and festive games. The night culminated with dancing. A complete list of Royal Bash sponsors, as well as information about specific grants, can be found at HopkinsEducationFoundation.org. Since 1995, HEF has raised $2.5 million, which has been used to fund 380 grants for pilot projects and curricular enhancements at Hopkins. HEF is a nonprofit independent from Hopkins Public Schools, and is dedicated to providing resources for educational innovations and enhancements for student success. It is governed by a volunteer board of directors.
District Life Changer
Robin Price
Robin Price’s passion for reading runs deep. Her entire life has been devoted to enhancing the literacy skills of each student whom she encounters. As the longtime library media specialist at West Junior High, Price develops and curates the school’s ever-changing collection of print and electronic materials. Her role also allows her to make recommendations to help staff and students find the best materials and resources. But her most important task, she said, is putting a good book in the hand of a student and hoping to spark the love of reading.
“Robin is the heart and soul of our school,” said Sara Speicher, digital learning coach and reading teacher at West. “She is passionate about literacy and helping students pursue their passions through reading. She creates a culture of fun and a love of reading and technology in the West media center, where students love to hang out.” As a mother of children in Hopkins Schools, Price already had a deep passion for the District. So when a job at West Junior High was available, she knew it was where she was meant to be. Whether it is assisting staff in finding relevant classroom materials or offering a new book recommendation to students, Price’s knowledge is invaluable. Her colleagues say she is always willing to lend a helping hand. She is the first to offer her expertise when it comes to getting a new school initiative off the ground, and she eagerly works with students during her advisory time. Can’t find what you’re looking for in the media center? Price has even been known to make special trips to purchase the requested materials. “Everyone at West is drawn to Robin because she is so positive, kind, and helpful,” said West educator Kim Campbell. “Robin is a staff member any school wants. She’s fun-loving, up for anything, cares about kids, and makes the media center a great place for teachers and students.” Background: After a three-year stint at a St. Paul elementary school as a librarian, Price jumped at the chance to work in Hopkins. She has spent the majority of her career with Hopkins Public Schools as the library media specialist at West Junior High. Throughout her time with Hopkins, Price has turned the media center into a place where students can not only learn but also one they can cherish. What do you love most about working at Hopkins Public Schools? I am proud to be a member of a quality teaching staff. I also love the family involvement in our district. Proudest moment? Each time a student asks for another book recommendation or tells me that they loved a book from our library. Teaching philosophy? Reading changes lives. Stats: • B.A. in French and foreign language education, University of Delaware; M.A. in educational technology, San Francisco University. Robin and her family relocated to the Midwest where she began working in the St. Paul Public Schools. In 1997, she joined the staff of Hopkins West Junior High as the library media specialist and participates in both District and building leadership committees. Robin is passionate about reading.
Where are they now?
Community Spirit
Lyla Bouchard and Jen Westmoreland Bouchard Service to community is more than just a notion in the Westmoreland Bouchard household — it’s a family endeavor that has Jen Westmoreland Bouchard and her 5-year-old daughter, Lyla, giving back on a regular basis. This mother-daughter duo are longtime supporters of ResourceWest and the annual Empty Bowls fundraiser. Proudest moment volunteering: Lyla: One time there was a little girl at ResourceWest who was getting upset while she was waiting for her mom to finish what she had to do. I shared some of my toys with her, and we played a game. Jen: Over the years, I’ve met some of my closest friends, and I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the many different people who make up our community. What person has influenced you most? Lyla: My grandpa has been alive longer than me. He has taught me how to help people and tell jokes. Jen: My mom, Barb Westmoreland, has been a lifelong inspiration to me. She is so innovative in her approach to connecting and maintaining meaningful relationships. Also Tarrah Palm at ResourceWest, Fartun Ahmed, Dominique and Tracie PierreToussaint of Minnesota Youth Community, and Lyla. I volunteer because … Lyla: I think it’s fun to hang out with other kids when I volunteer. On Empty Bowls day I really like showing people bowls and helping them choose when they can’t decide. Jen: We’re all in this together.
Know someone we should feature on this page? Email Emily.Buss@HopkinsSchools.org
Rose Simon: 2013 graduate
Brian Shragg: 2008 graduate
Kristina (Jensen) Rouw: 1995 graduate
Stats: Peer Mentor at The President’s Emerging Scholars scholarship program • Senior at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, finishing B.A. in French studies and B.S. in family social science fun facts As a longtime Hopkins Camp Royal staffer and current intern for the Hopkins One Voice Coalition, Rose Simon has a passion for giving back to her school community. Simon said studying in and now working at Hopkins Schools has opened her eyes to other cultures. After graduation later this spring, Simon plans to continue her work in higher education or in a nonprofit. Favorite hangout spot during Hopkins High School? The Mall. Favorite music artist of 2013? Imagine Dragons. What teacher or staff member at Hopkins High School made a difference in your life? To this day, Madame Miller is my favorite French teacher I have ever had. How did Hopkins prepare you? I have always felt lucky to call Hopkins my home because I feel supported and loved in this community, and I will continue to reciprocate those values in my future work.
Stats: Associate Dentist at Blue Ridge Dental Center • B.A. in psychology, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities; D.D.S., University of Southern California School of Dentistry fun facts Dr. Brian Shragg credits much of his success to the foundation he built inside Hopkins classrooms and in the Hopkins community. Upon graduating college, he headed west to Los Angeles where he studied dentistry. After chasing his dream of becoming a dentist, he moved back to his hometown. He is now an associate dentist and said he absolutely loves being able to give back to the community he grew up in. Favorite hangout spot during Hopkins High School? The music department and the Mall. Favorite music artist of 2008? Coldplay or Dave Matthews Band. What teacher or staff member at Hopkins High School made a difference in your life? Rick Rexroth. He was one of the most caring teachers I have ever had. How did Hopkins prepare you? Hopkins encouraged me to strive for my highest capabilities and gave me the confidence to achieve my dreams.
Stats: Principal Scientist at Holaira medical device company • B.S. and M.S. in mechanical engineering, and Ph.D. in biochemical engineering from University of Wisconsin-Madison fun facts Kristina Rouw has a knack for research. Her entire career has been focused on making a significant difference in people’s health. She has worked in many aspects of the industry, from development and testing to clinical use of medical devices. Throughout her career, she has worked on a number of products, including a device that treats peripheral artery disease. Currently she is involved in a clinical trial for the treatment of COPD. Favorite hangout spot during Hopkins High School? The pool at North Junior High. I was there a lot after school and on Saturdays because I was in synchronized swimming and speed swimming. How did Hopkins prepare you? Being part of the synchronized swimming and speed swimming teams at Hopkins High School was very important for me. Through these activities, I gained confidence and learned to work and compete both on a team and as a leader. Update May 2017
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 161 Hopkins, MN 55343
May Events Lincoln Center Live: A Memorial Concert for Pete and Toshi Seeger Thursday, May 11, 7-8:30 p.m. – Free screening! Eisenhower Community Center Theater, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins
1001 Highway 7 Hopkins, MN 55305 www.HopkinsSchools.org 952-988-4000 Time Value
2016 Hopkins Student Survey Results – Free and open to the public. Thursday, May 11, 6:30-8 p.m. Hopkins High School Cafeteria, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka Daddy and Me – Fun and free reading event at your local police station! Friday, May 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Minnetonka Police and Fire Station, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka Thursday, June 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Hopkins Police Station, 1010 1st Street South, Hopkins
Residential Postal Patron ECRWSS
Hopkins High School Choir Finale Thursday, May 25, 7-9 p.m. Hopkins High School Auditorium, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka Last Day of School for Students – Grades K-12 Thursday, June 1
Summer Rocks at Camp Royal!
Hopkins High School 2017 Graduation Thursday, June 1, 7:15 p.m. Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. Ticket is required. 2017 GED Graduation – Details at adultoptions.org Monday, June 5, 7 p.m. Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins
For youth K-6
Make your child’s summer sizzle! Registration open now:
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www.HopkinsSummer.org
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The School Board Needs You — Yes, You!
Wondering how you can get engaged in public education and your community? Being a school board member puts you at the center of the excellence that happens in Every School for Every Student Every Day. Leading and governing schools is exciting and allows you to make a lasting impact on your community’s future. But I don’t know the first thing about being a school board member! No problem! The Hopkins School Board will be offering a comprehensive training session for those interested in learning more. The Hopkins School Board and Superintendent John Schultz will present the roles and duties required of the position. You are encouraged to attend this training to see if being a board member is right for you. School Board training session: Monday, May 15, 6:30 p.m. Eisenhower Community Center, Room 233 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins
Greetings from Shanghai, China On March 15, XinXing students and a handful of chaperones boarded a plane for Shanghai, China. Twenty-five students participated in the second-annual eighth-grade trip to China, a voluntary trip abroad that is part of the Hopkins XinXing Chinese immersion program. This year, for the first time, six fourth-grade students and their families also traveled abroad. “This trip exceeded all of our expectations,” said Paul Domer, principal of Eisenhower Elementary and XinXing Academy. “We were treated as honored guests and were allowed to experience a week in the life of a Shanghai student. This partnership has been a great exchange of culture, academic ideas, and friendship that benefits both of our schools.” Hopkins Public Schools has a sister school partnership with the Putuo School District in Shanghai, China. The eighth-grade XinXing @ West students spent three days at the Cosco Experimental School. The XinXing Academy fourth-graders attended the Wuning
Road Primary School. The trip immersed students in Chinese culture and challenged them on their language competency skills. Older students stayed in home stays for the duration of the trip, while the younger students stayed with their families in hotels. “To be surrounded by the language is different from speaking it in the classroom,” said Catriona Ray, an eighth-grader at XinXing @ West. “I have been learning this language for nine years, but being there completely immersed in it, it felt pretty big.”
XinXing @ West eighth-grade students pose outside the Cosco Experimental School. Hopkins has had a sister school partnership with this school since 2013. This is the second time students have visited the school as part of the eighthgrade trip to China.
Fourth-grade XinXing Academy students spent three days in classrooms at the Wuning Road Primary School in Shanghai, China.
Insights from the fourth-graders:
Neil Lerner, a social studies teacher at West Junior High and one of the chaperones, said a trip highlight was being asked to coach the Chinese baseball team. Using hand gestures to communicate, he was able to run a successful baseball clinic and was even offered a permanent job coaching baseball in China. He declined.
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The accents were different and a little harder A Rubik’s Cube goes for $3 The high-speed train ride was really smooth Adult playgrounds — cool! Chinese students eat in their classroom, not in a lunchroom