Elementary Principal Report
Where School is for Kids
by Jim Bathen
October 21, 2008
David City Elementary
Jim Bathen, Principal
You can feel the chill in the air on these beautiful fall days. But, this is Nebraska and your children need to be prepared for cold weather. This is the time of year that I remind parents to think ahead. We have had snow in October many times over the years and it has been enough snow to close schools and reschedule football play off games. It is time for children to try on their boots, gloves and stocking hats to make sure they fit. Snow pants are optional, but the majority of the students wear snow pants so they can go play on the snow hills. Students that do not wear boots will be kept in the cafeteria during lunch time. If you can’t afford specific clothing items, call me. I can help. Nebraska weather is unpredictable, so please check your child’s snow gear out right away.
Note:Remember that November 3rd is the last day for kids to wear shorts.
Student Council elected representatives on October 3rd. We now have thirteen new members. The council has already elected a president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. These four officers attended the NAESP Region I Leadership Conference with me on Monday, October 13th. I was very proud of the way the kids handled themselves during their leadership sessions. I think we have some possible leaders for the future. The officers listened to the keynote speaker Greg Nishimara. They toured campus and ate with one hundred and fifty other students from Region I schools. What a great experience for the kids! The council is now preparing a mini grant to repaint the playground lines that were covered over by the new asphalt.
There was an excellent turnout for Parent Teacher Conferences. It’s great to see so many parents participate in this annual event. We had six classrooms that had 100% parent participation. There were 283 out of 300 families that were represented. The elementary had a 94.3 % participation rate for the first quarter conferences. The Bake Sale didn’t do quite as well. We raised $130.00 for the elementary Parent Pride account. Thanks to all the parents who donated bake goods or money or purchased. All donations were greatly appreciated.
Grades 2-6 participated in the Nebraska Student Vote program. Grades 2-6 were given the opportunity to vote for the president of the United States. Teachers spent time talking about the election and encouraging students to watch the debates, then the classes voted. I had to record their votes online. I do not have the results of the vote yet, but I am sure your children will tell you the outcome.
