Board of Education Meeting Summary March 11, 2013

Meeting called to order at 6 p.m.

The agenda was approved as amended with the addition of Action Item 2.7 (Amendment to 2012-2013 Early Separation Program Agreement).

Minutes of the February 11, 2013 meeting were approved as printed.

The Treasurer’s Report was accepted as presented; claims were approved for payment in the amounts of $53,713.80 (General Fund), $2,649.19 (Depreciation Fund), and $506.99 (Building Fund).

A presentation was made by the Continuous Improvement Leadership Team (CILT). The group reviewed the recent ex-ternal visitation and evaluation required by the Department of Education.

Tabled action on the 2013-2014 calendar.

Approved the purchase of two gymnasium scoreboards.

Approved repairs to the heating/cooling system in the high school and a three-year service agreement for this equipment.

Presented storage building ideas to the Building and Grounds Committee for consideration. The committee will meet on March 25th to discuss possibilities.

Approved the summer maintenance list as recommended.

Heard report from Principal Beth Nelson: Recent parent-teacher conferences were well attended; February 8th staff development; 2 state science contest qualifiers (Demi Edgell/Brooke Pieke); junior-senior high winter concert; Win-ter Homecoming; testing in progress or being planned; exter-nal visitation (appreciation extended to faculty, students, and community members involved), end-of-year activities and planning for the 2013-2014 school year.

Received report from Superintendent Pokorny: NRCSA Spring Conference; replacement of mini van (approved by consen-sus); $22,000 gift to Science Department to be received at April meeting; elementary alignment and staffing for next year; and purchase of banner and trophy for boys state basket-ball.

Entered into Executive Session at 8:26 p.m. to discuss amend-ment to early separation agreement, early retirement applica-tions, and 2013-2014 Principal’s salary/benefit package.

Returned to Public Session at 9:28 p.m.

Approved amendment to 2012-2013 early separation program agreement.

Accepted the early separation applications of Keith Fuhrer, Deb Matson and Mark Seier, effective at the completion of the 2012-2013 school year.

Approved the 2013-2014 salary/benefit package for Principal Beth Nelson.

Meeting was adjourned at 9:33 p.m.

CONGRATULATIONS TO: The following speech team members for their performances at our

invitational on February 20th: Brock Donelson, 4th in extemp; Brett Weinman, 5th in extemp; Jason Kaufman and Brooke Pieke, 2nd in duet acting; Mariely Estrada, 5th in poetry; Demi Edgell, 6th in poetry. Other team members competed well and earned superior and excellent ratings: Darienne Pokorny, Megan Nelson, Joe O’Brien, Nolan Wondercheck, Celine Dunlap, Destiny Johnson, and Esmeralda Arreguin.

The 8th grade boys on their 2nd place finish at the Boone Central Tournament.

Those who competed and earned medals at the Pope John Speech Festival: Alaina Rast, 1st in informative and 4th in serious prose; Darienne Pokorny, 4th in entertainment; Jason Kaufman and Brooke Pieke, 3rd in duet acting; Jason, 3rd in humorous; Mariely Estrada, 1st in poetry; Megan Nelson, 2nd in persuasive. Brett Weinman received high superior ratings in both rounds and barely missed earning the 4th place medal.

Alaina Rast for being selected through audition to Sounds of Amer-ica Choir. Sounds of America is a music program designed to en-rich aspiring musicians through international performance and education.

Matt Finkral and Darienne Pokorny on being selected as the Winter Homecoming Royalty. Leslie Estrada and Jason Kaufman were chosen as Maid of Honor and King’s Attendant.

Demi Edgell and Billy O’Brien for being accepted into the Agricul-ture Issues Academy at FFA State Convention. There were a total of 95 applications and 30 students from across the state were se-lected!

The BC/NG boys basketball team, qualifying for the State Tourna-ment with their win over Wayne, 51-38.

Brooke Pieke who is a State FFA Proficiency Finalist in Agrisci-ence Plant Systems.

Darienne Pokorny on selection as the February Student of the Month by the Norfolk Elks Lodge.

District CDE Contest Participants: Agriscience Team (Savannah Wiese, Celine Dunlap, Destiny Johnson, Esmer Arreguin, and Crystal Salinas) and the Meats Team (Megan Nelson, Darienne Pokorny, Demi Edgell, Brett Weinman, Andrea Lloyd, and Kleo Edgell) who will be competing at State Convention. Also congrats to the following individuals for earning purple ribbons - Darienne Pokorny (Meats), Billy O’Brien (Vet Science), Brock Donelson (Vet Science), and Jacob Haase (Vet Science).

Demi Edgell and Brooke Pieke on qualifying for the State NJAS Science Fair.

The boys basketball team on a runner-up finish at the State Tourna-ment! Great job, guys!!

The following on earning Academic All-State Honors. Darienne Pokorny (Basketball & Speech); Jason Kaufman (Speech); and Billy O’Brien (Wrestling).

No School/Early Dismissal Announcements March 29 NO SCHOOL K-12, Good Friday April 1 NO SCHOOL K-12 April 15 K-12, 3:00 PM Early Dismissal May 1 K-12, 1:30 PM Early Dismissal

The Bluejay Bulletin

President: David Fowlkes Secretary: John Krueger Vice-President: Tom Haase Member: Scott Lyon Treasurer: Jeanie McCloud Member: Zane Wondercheck

Web Site: http://www.newman.esu8.org (402) 447-6294

Newman Grove

Public Schools ~ ~ ~ ~

2012-2013

March, 2013

The Bluejay Bulletin

CAMPBELL’S SOUP UPCs DueApril 26th

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF THESE PROGRAMS!THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF THESE PROGRAMS!THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF THESE PROGRAMS!

— DEADLINES ARE APPROACHING —

MRS. NELSON

March, 2013

FROM THE OFFICE OF 7-12 PRINCIPAL

BETH NELSON

So Just What Does it Take to Raise a Competent Self-Sufficient Adult?

This is a burning question for many parents. This is also a burning question for school districts as well. I have shared some information at parent meetings at the beginning of the school year that talks about helicopter parenting. I come across this article and thought it would be beneficial to share with you. Only the main parts are shared here but the website addresses are present for your further reading if you so choose. TIME Magazine Article/Family Matters: Hover No More: Helicopter Parents May Breed Depression and Incompetence in Their Children By Bonnie Rochman

Read more: http://healthland.time.com/2013/02/22/hover-no-more-helicopter-parents-may-breed-depression-and-incompetence-in-their-children/#ixzz2MVs3uVCx

You may think you’re helping out by phoning your kids’ college professors to haggle over the differ-ence between a B+ and an A–, but that interference may be undermining young adults’ ability to problem-solve and fend for themselves. Constantly texting adult children and friending them on Facebook — letting them fly the coop but still demanding daily check-ins — is not exactly building a generation of confident and resilient grownups. And the problem only snowballs. “Parents are sending an unintentional message to their children that they are not competent,” says Holly Schiffrin, lead author of the study and an associate profes-sor of psychology at the University of Mary Washington. “When adult children don’t get to practice problem-solving skills, they can’t solve these problems in the future.” Read more: http://healthland.time.com/2013/02/22/hover-no-more-helicopter-parents-may-breed-depression-and-incompetence-in-their-children/#ixzz2MVrTiRru

The students also reported on how satisfied they were with their lives, as well as their feelings of depression and anxiety. And they were questioned about the “self-determination theory,” which holds that every person has three basic needs in order to be happy: they must feel autonomous, competent and con-nected to other people.

Their answers showed that helicopter parenting decreased adult children’s feelings of autonomy, competence and connection. In turn, feeling incompetent led to increased reports of feeling depressed and dissatisfied. “These parents have the best intentions,” says Schiffrin. “They are being involved to help their child be successful. But as we know from the previous study, that high level of involvement is stressful for parents and it is not benefiting the kids. It’s actually harming them.” Read more: http://healthland.time.com/2013/02/22/hover-no-more-helicopter-parents-may-breed-depression-and-incompetence-in-their-children/#ixzz2MVrqm03G

COUNSELOR’S

O

R

N

E

Matt Rudloff, K-12 Counselor

mrudloff@esu8.org

REMINDER: Local scholarship application forms are available from Mr. Rudloff and most of

them have an April 1st deadline.

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS The following scholarships are available through the Newman Grove Schools Bluejay Foundation:

Bluejay Foundation Scholarship - (1 boy and 1 girl), ($500 each), The top 5 girls and top 5 boys according to their GPA may apply.

NECC/Bluejay Foundation/Wayne Gearhart Memorial Scholarship - (Estimate $600), Students pursuing a degree through NECC; must file on-line

application and submit FAFSA to NECC.

Pauline Engelka - ($400), Open to anyone.

Muller Family Scholarship - ($1,000), Open to anyone. Student’s GPA, academic achievement, high achiever, and hard worker will be considered.

Jennevie (Froistad) O’Reilly Scholarship - ($400), Open to anyone with at least a 3.0 GPA. Financial need considered.

Qualset Family Agriculture Scholarship - ($500), Must be pursuing a career in agriculture.

Randy Benson, Jr. Memorial Scholarship - ($400), Pursuing a degree through any university, community college or technical school. Consideration

given to Benson relatives.

Clarence and DeLoris Nelson Memorial Scholarship - (1-$1,000 or 2-$500), Must have a farm background.

Oscar “Buddy” and Delores Gustafson Family Scholarship - ($500), Open to anyone with at least a 3.0 GPA. Financial need taken into considera-

tion.

Matthew London Memorial Scholarship – ($300), Open to anyone.

NG Community Foundation/Bluejay Foundation Scholarship – (1-$1,000 or 2-$500), Students pursuing a degree through a community college in an

occupational or career field.

Senator Tom Kennedy Memorial Scholarship – ($1,000), GPA of 3.0 required; intended for student who may not be eligible for other scholarships

Donavon T. and Ruth (Romberg) Nelson Education Scholarship – ($500), GPA of 2.5 required; students pursuing a degree in science education, pref-

erably in teaching

Kenneth/Caroline Eng Scholarship – (2-$3,000), GPA of 2.5. 1 scholarship awarded to student planning on attending Wayne State, other to any other

college: Any degree pursued.

Newman Grove Senior Center Scholarship – (1-$1,000 or 2-$500), GPA of 2.5. Low-Income family. Senior Center trustee to help with selection.

The following local scholarships are available:

Newman Grove Education Association Study Grant-($100), 3.0 GPA or upper 1/3 of the class. Entering the field of education.

Newman Grove Ministerial Association-($100), Planning a vocation in a service to the church, pick up application from the school counselor or a min-

ister.

Newman Grove Masonic Lodge #305-($ amount TBD each year. 1-2 scholarships will be given), Two page application. On page one, include name

and address of student and parents plus activities while attending NGHS. On page two, write a one page paper telling the lodge of post high school

plans and ambitions for future.

Newman Grove FFA Alumni Scholarship-(1-$200), Pick up application blank and return it to the Agriculture Education Instructor.

All scholarship applications are judged not only according to the above criteria but also on academic achievement, activity participation, stu-

dent’s work ethic, and personal integrity.

Unless otherwise stated, the deadline for applications is April 1. Unless otherwise stated, pick up application from the school counselor. Unless

otherwise stated, return completed applications to the school counselor.

Other important information 1. You should never pay to fill out the FASFA. Check the web address to make sure it ends in gov. 2. I have a booklet “Funding Education Beyond High School” that students or parents can pick up. 3. Northeast Community College is offering some free assistance through their Financial Aid Office at the College Welcome Center on Fri-days from 1pm -4pm between February and June 2013 with no appointment necessary. Number to call is 1-402-844-7285. You will need the following info: 2012 tax returns & W-2’s and a PIN for both parent and student (www.pin.ed.gov). Parents do not need a new PIN if they have one from a previous child. 4. The Education Quest website (www.educationquest.org) gives great tutorials for filling out the FASFA. It goes over each question and helps answer any questions you may have. 5. A link to the FASFA and Education Quest websites are posted on our school website. 6. An updated list of scholarships is available in the counseling office for students to pick up. A list is also posted on our school web-site. Local scholarship applications have been distributed to each senior. 7. Seniors should visit and then apply to colleges they are seriously considering. 8. Please notify Mr. Rudloff of any Scholarships or Awards earned so you can be recognized at graduation.

R

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

Encouragement By Donna Miller

Whether they’ll fess up to it or not, kids like a pat on the back...especially from their parents. Kids need encour-

agement from everyone whether it is their parents, teacher, relatives, friends, or community members. Everyone likes to hear

when they have done something good. Encourage your child or children to have a positive attitude.

Sometimes the biggest accomplishments are just showing up—for the big game, their very first concert or an all-

school assembly. Let your child know it takes guts to meet those challenges, and you’re sure proud of their never-give-up

approach to life. Remind them of a specific success (or even a failure) and how their effort will serve them later in life.

Nothing delights a child more than an unexpected card from Mom or Dad under the pillow or tucked into a brand-

new book in their backpack. Include messages like “Awesome effort on your algebra test” or “I knew you could do it!” or

“Aren’t you proud of yourself? I sure am.” These confidence boosters are worth their weight in hugs and kisses.

For all their hard work and good behavior, send them on a mission of recognition. Hide their favorite candy, a

thoughtful card or a small gift in the mailbox and ask them to bring in the mail that day. With a beaming smile and a happy

heart, you’ll know right away you’ve made their day.

Create a whole lot of motivation by rewarding everyday good deeds like entering the spelling bee, tutoring another

student or just having the courage to be themselves. Give a surprise high five in the form of skip-a-day-of-chores coupons,

their favorite dinners or special time set aside for just the two of you to recap the day and set goals for tomorrow.

Freshmen attend 9th

Grade Career Day By Matt Rudloff

On Monday, May 4th, I took the freshmen to a 9th grade career day at Northeast Communi-ty College. Over 20 schools and 500 students were in attendance. This day consisted of an opening speech from the president of the college and then the students attended 5 career explora-tion sessions that they had previously signed up for. Lunch was also provided. This day was a good experience for our freshmen as it was very college like with having to walk across campus and meet many new people. It is good to see the freshmen start thinking about their future and what they will have to do to attain their goals.

Know the facts before having a discussion about peer pressure with your teen

In order to prepare your teen to combat peer pressure, you have to know what she is being pressured to do. A survey by the Centers

for Disease Control and Prevention found that teens are often being pressured on the topics of:

• Smoking. Nearly 25% of high school students smoke cigarettes.

• Drinking. A whopping two-thirds of teens between 14 and 17 have tried alcohol.

• Drugs. A little more than 25% of 14 to 17-year-olds reported that they have used illegal drugs.

• Sex. Just about one in every three teens aged 14 to 15 has had sexual intercourse.

Think about your family values regarding these issues. Then, rather than banning your teen from leaving the house, have a conversa-

tion with your teen about why you feel the way you feel. Knowing why you don’t want her smoking, drinking or involved in other

risky behaviors may be just enough to encourage your teen to say no to her friends.

Source: E. Heubeck, “Teen Peer Pressure: Raising a Peer Pressure-Proof Child,” WebMD, www.webmd.com/ parenting/teen-abuse-cough-medicine-

9/peer-pressure.

Newman Grove Dance Team

The Newman Grove Dance Team went to Grand Island on Febru-ary 15 th and 16 th to compete at the Cheer/Dance State Competition.

They received an excellent rating with their pom routine and a superior Rating in the Hip

Hop division. Dance

Team members are Kleo Edgell, Brittney Weinman, Emily Strong, Shyanne

McCuiston and Sadie Wallin.

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

Newman Huskers 4H Group will provide concessions at

ALUMNI BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

Friday, March 15 6-10 PM

Saturday, March 16 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Sloppy Joes, Chips, Baked Goods

They are also having a food drive. If you bring some canned goods to the

concession stand they will give you a treat. The food is going to the local food pantry.

Night of the Stars

Come see the speech performances and the spring play…

Pirates By Kristi Theilen

April 11th at 7:30 P.M.

Old Gym Dessert Bar will follow.

A Preschool Family Affair By Meghan Flood

One aspect of being a family in

Head Start is having family activities for preschoolers

and their families to participate in. Throughout the

school year we have six family activities. Our first

“activity” is always a mandatory parent meeting

where we are able to discuss the year’s family activi-

ties. Parents are our best resources and they often

come up with the best activities!

In October we had a family hay rack ride pro-

vided by David Fowlkes. Everyone was also able to

bring home a pumpkin. In November we had a mother

and me activity; dancing and a food experience. In

January we attempted sledding, but there was not

enough snow so we had a family game night. In

March we will be having a father and me activity

where we will make bird houses and in April we will

have a family potluck. We are looking forward to next

year and some new, exciting family activities!

Babies Can’t Wait!

Babies can’t wait! Babies grow and learn rapidly

from the minute they are born. If a baby is not learning or

growing appropriately he can’t wait for help. If you have

concerns about your baby or another child’s development, the

Early Development Network can help.

The Early Development Network helps children

birth to 3 years of age and their families access services and

supports. If a child’s development is delayed or if he has

been diagnosed with a health condition that will affect his

development, the Early Development Network will help his

family access an evaluation of his skills in five areas of devel-

opment: cognitive, motor, speech and language, social -

emotional, and adaptive behavior. The evaluation is con-

ducted in the child’s home with trained professionals and is

provided at no cost to the family.

After the evaluation is completed, the family and the

services coordinator meet with the person or persons who

conducted the evaluation and a representative of the local

school district to discuss the results and to determine what

services the child needs. This team works with the family to

develop an Individual Family Services Plan (IFSP). The ser-

vices are provided in the child’s home or other setting natural

to the child so that learning happens in a setting best suited to

the child. The Early Development Network can also help

families identify areas of need and assist with accessing ser-

vices and supports such as respite care and financial assis-

tance for medical treatment.

Early childhood services help babies and children to

learn and grow. Research has shown that the earlier children

with delays receive instruction and/or therapy, the more likely

they are to learn to communicate, to move independently, and

to learn to interact with others appropriately.

Babies Can’t Wait! If you have concerns about your

baby or toddler’s development, contact the Early Develop-

ment Network today. Call 1-800-531-9316 to contact an Ear-

ly Development Network services coordinator.

March, 2009 March, 2013 The Bluejay Bulletin

STEM AND OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME By Mark Seier

The new acronym in science education today is

STEM. It stands for Science Technology Engineering and

Math. There is a national and state initiative to increase

STEM education through out- of- school time (OST) pro-

grams. At Newman Grove High School we have had these

types of programs for many years. They include the Shell

Creek Watershed Research Team, Olson Nature Preserve

Projects, Beaver Creek Water Quality Monitoring, the Nio-

brara River field trip, Colorado field trip, and Individual Sci-

ence Research (ISR) Projects.

Please go to the web site http://netnebraska.org/

basic-page/learning-services/out-school-time-and-stem. At

this site you will find additional information about (OST)

STEM programs. Some of the highlights at this web site

include:

a link to the Newman Grove nelovesps video “Student

Scientists in Action”

Governor Dave Heinemann and Commissioner of Edu-

cation Dr. Roger Breeds’ testimonials about the im-

portance of STEM education in Nebraska

a link to an hour long video aired on NTV on February

21 about STEM education

and many printable files on the importance of STEM

education programs

Some of the interesting facts discussed at this web

site are that “over the course of a year, only 18.5% of a K-12

student’s waking hours are spent in school and that by 2018,

2,800,000 jobs will open in STEM professions.” These two

pieces of information suggest that for our students to be com-

petitive for the STEM jobs of the future they will need to

continue to take advantage of the out- of- school time STEM

programs we have to offer at Newman Grove High School.

March is the month when schools across

America celebrate Music in Our Schools.

EVENTS for Newman Grove

Music Department

Wednesday…March 20th Karaoke Day in

Music Room

Friday…March 22nd K-6th Grade Talent Show

2 p.m. (register before hand) Parents, Grand-

parents may attend.

JOIN IN THE FUN!!!!

Easter Egg Hunt

March 27th

4:00 PM

In the City Park

4th Grade and Younger

Sponsored by the Newman Grove FFA

and the Community Club

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

Kindergarten Roundup 2013-2014

An orientation meeting for parents of incoming Kindergarten students is scheduled for Thursday, April 25th, at 6:00 p.m. in the Kindergarten classroom. The teacher, principal, guidance counselor and school nurse will be available to answer questions parents may have concerning their child’s enrollment. Kindergarten Roundup has been scheduled for Friday, May 3rd from 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. This is an im-portant opportunity for parents and their future Kindergarten children to visit the classroom and school staff. All children who reach the age of five by July 31, 2013 are eligible to enter Kindergarten this fall. Eligible students include Shawn Brixter-Hagnaya (Jeff/Juanita), Micah Cuevas (Jenelle), Billy Fyfe (Shawn), Owen Kauf-man (Luke/Tammy), Riley Nelson (Ross/Amy), Kailey Patzel (Troy/Karla), Isaac Rudloff (Matt/Stephanie), Se-renity Strong (Tim/Kathy). Information regarding Parent Orientation and Roundup will be mailed soon to parents. However, if you should not receive this information, please contact the school office (447-6294). If you are unable to attend the parent meeting, please notify the office so that arrangements can be made for you to receive a Kindergarten in-formation packet. If you have a child who is eligible but he/she is not listed above, please contact the school.

County Government Day

Essay Contest Winner

By Laura Nelson

Kleo Edgell received third place

for her essay titled “What County Govern-

ment Day Means to Me”. She received a

check for $10 from the Madison County

American Legion. She and other Newman

Grove students attended County Govern-

ment Day in Madison in October and

wrote about how their experience that day

affected them. Charlie Borg from Ameri-

can Legion Post #73 presented the check

but was unable to be there for the picture.

2nd & 3rd Grade Pennies Project for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

The 2nd/3rd Grade Class, with the help of a very generous and car-ing community, raised $1,624.90 during their Pennies Project for St. Jude’s this year. Throughout the 5 years this class has been doing this project, we have raised a total of $4, 690, with the majority of the money being pennies. While this project provides numerous opportunities for using our skills in reading, writing, and math, the greater lesson comes through an awareness of what it means to be a caring, compassionate, and contributing citizen of a community. We sincerely appreciate everyone who had a part in helping us to realize that and are so proud to be a part of this school and community! The class gave the money to Clint Leifeld of US92 on February 24th. Thank you for helping us make a difference.

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

Bluejays Speech Team Hosts Parents’ Night

By Rhonda Rother

Monday evening, March 4 at 7:00 PM, the Bluejays Speech Team hosted its third annual Parents’ Night. Each speech team member performed at least one event for the audience. Among the performers were seniors Jason Kaufman (who performed a humorous prose cutting and a duet acting piece entitled Spartan Cheerleaders, written by Brooke Pieke), Darienne Pokorny (entertainment speaking), and Demi Edgell (poetry). Performers from the junior class were Megan Nelson (persuasive speaking), Brooke Pieke (duet acting, with Jason), Alaina Rast (informative speaking and serious prose), and Brett Weinman (humorous prose). The sole sophomore performer was Mariely Estra-da, performing her poetry program. Freshmen included Esmeralda Arreguin, Celine Dunlap, Destiny Johnson, Joe O’Brien, and Nolan Wondercheck, giving the audience some laughs with their humorous oral interpretation of drama performance entitled Girls’ Night Out, by Ken Bradbury. Coming up next in the team’s schedule is districts, which is scheduled for Wednesday, March 13 in Leigh. Joining the team members listed previously will be sophomore Robin Repoli and juniors Jacob Haase, John O’Brien, and Billy O’Brien. These additional performers will help the Bluejays fill their district roster. Commenting on the up-coming district contest, coach Rhonda Rother expressed a positive outlook, stating that, “It’s the first time ever in my 14 years of coaching that we’ve had a full district roster. I’m really looking forward to the contest.”

BC/NG Cardinals finish with Runner-Up trophy

at the 2013 Boys State Basketball Tournament

By Matt Rudloff

The Boone Central/ Newman Grove Cardinals finished the year with the C1 state runner-up honors. The Cardi-

nals path to state started with three wins in sub-districts and districts. The Cards beat Battle Creek 65-48 and then beat

Norfolk Catholic 52-46 in the sub-district finals. The Cards faced Wayne for the third time in the district final game for

a chance to go to the state tournament. Wayne had won the first match 58-65 in overtime at the holiday tournament.

The Cardinals won the second match 46-43 in Wayne. The Cards showed up and played tremendous defense to beat the

Blue Devils 51-38 and earn a berth to the 2013 boys C1 state basketball tournament. At the state tournament the seventh

seeded Cardinals (21-6) were paired to meet the second seeded Kearney Catholic Stars who were 22-3. The first round

was played at the Pershing Auditorium at 7pm on Thursday, March 7th. The Cards won 63-57. The next day’s semi-

final game at the Devaney Center was against Kimball (21-1) who had beat Gibbon in the first round. The Cardinals

defense again showed up and the Cards beat Kimball 53-33. This win put the Cards in the state championship game

against Wahoo who was 28-0. Wahoo beat Lincoln Christian in round 1 and Wayne in the semi-finals on their way to

the state championship game. An exciting first half in the championship game left the game tied at 20-20 at halftime

between the Cardinals and Warriors. At the end of the third quarter, the Cards hit a 3 to go up by 2 points with 5 sec-

onds left but it didn’t last long as Wahoo hit a half-court shot to take a 1 point lead into the final quarter. The Cards

came up a little short in the final quarter to see a final score, 42-45, in upsetting an undefeated Wahoo team. The Cardi-

nals ended the year with a record of 23-7. As coaches, we are very proud of the team and their efforts all year long. The

guys weathered all the storms of a 30 game season to come up just 3 points short of being state champions. We will

miss the 3 seniors, Beau Bremer, Hallick Lehmann, and Hunter Henry. They provide much leadership and stability that

the team thrived on.

Players on this year’s team include:

Seniors: Beau Bremer, Hallick Lehmann, Hunter Henry.

Juniors: Carter Johnson, Pierce Koch, Derek Gentrup, Tyler Hedlund, Austin Zoucha, Luke Johnson, Alex Hayes.

Sophomores: Colton Pelster, Wyatt Mazour, Zac Glidden, Travis Kennedy, Garrett Temme, Noah Weidner, Colt Man-

gus, Evan Struebing, Justin Lee, Christian Ketteler.

Freshmen: Kyle Kramer, Keaton Henry, Scott Ketteler, Damian Backes, Blake Olnes, Blaine Kennedy, Jared Zwiener,

Will Dyer, Mario Cortes, Jose Campos, Tate Zwiebel.

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2009 March, 2013

Junior High Boys

Basketball

The Boone Central/

Newman Grove Junior High Boys

basketball team recently completed

the 2013 season. There were six-

teen boys on the 7th team that fin-

ished the season with a record of 4

-3. In addition to the regular

games, we were often able to play

extra quarters and even a couple of

“B” team games with the seventh

graders. This gave everyone con-

siderable playing time and the op-

portunity to improve as basketball

players.

The 8th grade team fin-

ished with a record of 2-9, with the

highlight being a second place

finish in the Boone Central tourna-

ment to conclude the season. A

total of eleven boys made up the

8th grade squad.

These boys were a lot of

fun to coach and they worked hard

every day to become better basket-

ball players. The coaches take a lot

of satisfaction in watching each

individual improve as the season

develops. Hopefully these young

men will continue to work to be-

come the best they can be.

Pictured on top is the 7th

grade team. Back row (l-r): Coach

Tim Rossow, EJ, Cody Nelson,

William Thompson, Michael Mur-

cek, Coach Jeff Hayes, Tyler

Schriver, Riley Montoya, Jessie

Sullivan, Caden Ranslem, Coach

Kris Pestel. Middle row: Matt

Schmitz, Dylan Bagley, Dylan

Gentrup, Mack Nelson, Bryton

Fowlkes. Front row: Zach Wrights,

Zach Nissen, Nicholas Pelster,

Logan Kohl, Ashley Lindgren.

Bottom picture is the 8th grade team. Back row (l-r): Tanner Schafer, Ethan Young, Coach Tim Rossow, Derek Stuhr,

Coach Jeff Hayes, Joel Garcia, Coach Kris Pestel, Dalton Wagner, Conner Johnson. Middle row: Jacob Potmesil, Johnny Case,

Nathan Gottier, Isiah Weverka-Haddix, Ty Groth. Front row: Zach Wrights and Ashley Lindgren, Student Managers.

March, 2013 The Bluejay Bulletin

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

Alaina Rast chosen to perform

with Sound of America

Honor band/chorus By Tami Texley

Alaina Rast, a junior, has been selected to perform

with The Sound of America Honor Band and Chorus when it

begins its 2013 European Concert Tour in July. Alaina has

participated in chorus as an alto singer and band at Newman

Grove as a flutist for 3 years under the instruction of Tami

Texley. Alaina’s accomplishments include being selected for

UNK Honor Choir 2 years. She was a flutist for Doane Col-

lege’s Honor Band, and participated as a flutist for the 2012

Shrine Bowl Marching Band. Alaina will join the choir with 200

other select student musicians chosen from applicants repre-

senting nearly every state. Selection into THE SOUND OF

AMERICA is a distinguished honor for all participants. All

applicants are carefully screened and chosen only after a

rigid character and musical evaluation.

All student performers will meet on the campus of

Elizabethtown College, Pennsylvania June 29th, 2013. After

four days of intensive rehearsal and orientation, the group will

depart for Frankfurt, Germany. The group is scheduled to

present nine performances in some of Europe’s finest concert

halls and major cathedrals during its 23 day concert tour.

The students will experience the cultures of six

countries: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, France and

Luxembourg. Some of the exciting locations that will be visit-

ed during the tour are Paris, Venice, and La Chaux-de-

Fonds. A special ceremony will be presented at the Luxem-

bourg-American World War II Military Cemetery on behalf of

America’s fallen soldiers. Clyde M. Barr is Conductor of the

Honor Band, and Dr. Nancy Klein is Conductor of the Honor

Chorus.

Students who have qualified for THE SOUND OF

AMERICA membership are responsible for costs involved

with the trip. Frequently, however, local businesses and civic

clubs who have an interest in helping deserving students will

offer some financial sponsorship to the student representing

their community. THE SOUND OF AMERICA Honor Band

and Chorus, celebrating its 37th year in 2013, and is recog-

nized as one of the finest and most successful European

Concert Tour programs. THE SOUND OF AMERICA has

been the recipient of letters of recommendation from former

United States Presidents George W. Bush, Ronald Reagan,

and George H. W. Bush. THE SOUND OF AMERICA, Inc. is

registered with the commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the

United States Internal Revenue Services as a non-profit cor-

poration.

Alaina Rast is the daughter of Nathan and Heidi

Rast of Newman Grove. Her grandparents are Naomi Rast

of Newman Grove, and Glenn and the late Marjorie Wede-

kind of Madison. Contributions are tax deductible and may be

written to THE SOUND OF AMERICA and sent to 82645 540

Ave. Newman Grove, NE 68758.

Science Fair Season

By Karen Malmkar

Science Fair season 2013

opened with Brooke Pieke traveling

to Oklahoma State University on

March 1st for an intense, invitation

only competition against students

from Nebraska, Kansas, and Okla-

homa. This was a great experience and opportunity to compete against

some very challenging competition.

The first full team effort on March 7th had 6 students competing at

Hastings College for the Nebraska Junior Academy of Sciences Re-

gional Fair. In the junior high division Alexis Malmkar came home

with a red ribbon and Payton Nelson came home with a blue rib-

bon. In the senior high division Garrett Flamme came home with a

blue ribbon. Parker Wallin, Demi Edgell, and Brooke Pieke all

brought home purple ribbons and made it into the top ten finish-

ers. From that group both Demi Edgell and Brooke Pieke were select-

ed to go to state. Brooke also brought home the trophy for the best physical science project.

Upcoming events:

Monday March 18th AHEC Health and Science Fair at Northeast

Community College (8th grade only) Saturday-Sunday March 22-24 Greater Nebraska Science and Engi-

neering Fair @ Nebraska City (Depart Friday afternoon)

Friday April 19th State NJAS Wesleyan University @ Lincoln

As you see these students out and about in our community encourage them about their participation in science research and ask

them questions about their projects. This years topics are as follows:

7th - Payton Nelson: Left and Right Brained Dominance

8th - Bridgette Borgheiinck: Voltage Differences of Fruits in a Circuit

8th - Alexis Malmkar: The Effect of Hand Sanitizer on P. acnes Bacte-

rium

10th - Parker Wallin: The Effect of pH on the De-Oxidization Rates of

Copper

10th - Garrett Flamme: Can Fire be Classified

as Living?

11th - Brooke Pieke: The Effect of Lemnaceae on Nitrate Levels in the Shell Creek Watershed

12th - Demi Edgell: The Effect of Well Depth

on Nitrate Levels in Drinking Water (wells test-

ed in the Shell Creek Watershed)

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

Brittney

Weinman

Parents:

Michael Plugge & the late Christina Plugge

Other Family Members: Robert, Brett, David

Favorite Pastime: Hanging with friends, having fun,

going to random places with Shyanne McCuiston

Senior Activities: Dance, Choir, Student Council

Plans After Graduation: Possibly go to Culinary School

Brock

Donelson

Parents:

Alan & Daidrea Donelson

Other Family Members: Mya, Addy

Favorite Pastime:

Working with cattle and 4-H, FFA activities

Senior Activities: Football, Wrestling, FFA, Speech, Drama,

Student Council, 4-H

Part-time Employment: Martinson Farms

Plans After Graduation:

Go to NECC and then UNL for Agri-Business

NEWMAN GROVE FFA WEEK IS CUT SHORT BY WEATHER

By Billy O’Brien Newman Grove FFA Reporter

Despite the weather we still had a successful week celebrating the FFA organization and our chapter. On the week of February 18th through the 20th the Newman Grove FFA chapter celebrated National FFA Week. On Monday, we started the week with decorating the hallways in blue and gold. We also started the trivia for the week on Monday. On Tuesday, students selected the teacher that they wanted to see kiss the pig. Mr. Robert Rose won the most votes by a large margin. FFA members also put on the teacher appreciation breakfast and wore our official dress on Tuesday. On Wednesday, students wore their FFA shirts and four students drove their tractors to school. The students were Alex Wiese, Andy King, Brock Donelson, Nolan Wondercheck, and Parker Wallin brought his pedal tractor to school. With school being cancelled on Thursday, we moved our petting zoo to Monday. All the elementary students were invited to come over to the petting zoo. The animals at the petting zoo included a bunny, guinea pig, lambs, baby goats, calf, a miniature donkey, and a miniature pony. The elementary students enjoyed interacting and learn-ing about the animals.

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

SCHOOL IMMUNIZATIONS, PHYSICALS, AND VISION

RULES AND REGULATIONS INFORMATION

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILDREN ENTERING KINDERGARTEN,

7TH GRADE OR FROM OUT-0F-STATE

PHYSICAL AND VISUAL EXAMS These can be done any time between now and the first day of school

Kindergarten or new students transferring from out-of-state are required to have a physical and visual exam.

All 7th Graders are required to have a physical exam and immunization.

Please have the physical form and record of immunizations returned to the school by the first day of school or sooner if

possible.

IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS FOR KINDERGARTEN AND 7TH GRADE Children are required to have:

3 doses of Dtap, DT, or Td vaccine with one given on or after the 4th birthday,

Tdap booster for 7th grade (must contain pertussis booster)

3 doses of Polio vaccine,

2 doses of MMR vaccine, given on or after 12 months of age and separated by at least one month,

3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine, and

2 doses of varicella (chicken pox) vaccine given on or after 12 months of age. Written document including year of vari-

cella disease from parent, guardian, or health care provider will be accepted.

Nebraska State Law states that students will not be admitted to school without the minimum immunizations listed here.

Waivers will be allowed if your doctor states the child cannot receive a specific immunization. This will have to be on a

written form provided by the school and signed by the physician.

VISION Students entering school for the first time, including kindergarten and transfer students from out of state, will be re-

quired to provide proof of a vision evaluation taken within six months prior to the student’s entrance.

The vision evaluation is required to test for amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (misalignment of the eyes), which are

two of the most common vision disorders in young children, as well as internal and external eye health and visual acuity.

A certificate or form stating results of the evaluation must be signed by an optometrist, physician, physician assistant, or

advanced practice registered nurse.

IMMUNIZATION CLINIC SCHEDULE Madison Immunization Clinic: Trinity Lutheran Church, 508 S. Jackson – 11 a.m.-3 p.m. First Monday of each

month. Please call (402) 385-6300 or 800-445-2505 for an appointment.

Norfolk Immunization Clinic: 1405 Riverside Blvd., Norfolk – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday by appointment on-

ly. Please call (402) 379-1380.

Neligh Immunization Clinic Abundant Life Christian Center, 1101 L St. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. First Thursday of each month.

Please call (402) 385-6300 or 800-445-2505.

Central Community Services: 3362 53rd Ave., Columbus 9 a.m.-1 p.m. & 2 p.m.-6 p.m. First Monday of the month.

Please call (402) 564-1124 ext.230 or 800-736-5827 ext. 230.

Boone Community Immunization Clinic: United Methodist Church, 605 W. Morengo St. Albion third Tuesday of

each month, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Call (402)564-1124 ext. 230 or 800-736-5827 ext. 230.

APRIL 2013

The Bluejay Bulletin

NEWMAN GROVE SCHOOL LUNCH MENUS

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

April 1

NO

SCHOOL

April 2

WG Chicken Alfredo

Peas

Fruit Slushy

Banana

WG Biscuits/Jelly

Milk

April 3

Shephard’s Pie

Sliced Cucumbers

Frozen Strawberries

WG Bread/Butter

Grape Tomatoes

Milk

April 5

Pizza Burger/WG Bun

French Fries

Spinach Lettuce

Applesauce

Garbanzo Beans

Milk

April 4

Breaded Chicken Patty

Mashed Potato/Gravy

Broccoli/Cauliflower

Mandarin Oranges

WG Dinner Roll

Milk

April 8

Ham Patty

WG Pancakes

Tri Taters

Juice

Red Pepper Strips

Milk

April 9 Chicken Strips

WG Mac & Cheese

Carrots

Fruit Slushy

WG Muffin

Milk

April 10

Tater Tot Casserole

Green Beans

Sliced Tomatoes

Banana

WG Sugar Cookie

Milk

April 12

Beef Taco

Doritos

Romaine Lettuce

Salsa

Applesauce

Milk

April 11

Breaded Beef Patty

Mashed Potato/Gravy

Broccoli

Mandarin Oranges

WG Dinner Roll

Milk

April 15

WG Cavatini

Corn

Broccoli/Cauliflower

Applesauce

WG Bread Sticks

Milk

April 16

Popcorn Chicken

Cheesy Cal Blend Veg

Apple Slices

Fruit Slushy

PBJ

Milk

April 17

Beef Taco Pie

WG Tortillas

Peas

Sliced Cucumbers

Peaches

Milk

April 19

Ham Sub/WG Bun

Potato Wedges

Sliced Tomatoes

Mandarin Oranges

Radishes

Milk

April 18

Grilled Chicken Patty

Mashed Potato/Gravy

Spinach Lettuce

Frozen Strawberries

WG Dinner Roll

Milk

April 22

Chicken Noodle Soup

Baby Carrots

Green Pepper Strips

Pears

WG Muffin

Milk

April 23

BBQ Meatball Sand/

WG Bun/ Curly Q’s

Sliced Tomatoes

Fruit Slushy

Banana

Milk

April 24

Nachos/w Gr. Beef

WG Tortilla Chips

Refried Beans/Salsa

Romaine Lettuce

Mandarin Oranges

Milk

April 26

Pep Pizza/WG Crust

Corn

Broccoli

Cantaloupe

Cookie

Milk

April 25

Chunk Chicken Gravy

over/Mashed Potatoes

Peas

Mixed Fruit

WG Dinner Roll

Milk

(menus are subject to change without notice) Fruit or juice served daily!

(milk served with each meal; salad bar or fruit boat available to 7-12 students)

March, 2013

April 29

BBQ Rib Sandwich

WG Bun/Tater Tots

Sliced Cucumbers

Tomato Wedges

Honeydew Melon

Milk

April 30

Corndogs

Baked Beans

Baby Carrots

Fruit Slushy

WG Turnover

Milk

May 1

Hamb/Brown Rice

Casserole/Corn

Celery Sticks

Apple Slices

WG Biscuits/Butter

Milk

May 2

Au Gratin Potato/Ham

Peas

Broccoli

Pears

WG Dinner Roll

Milk

May 3

Sloppy Joes/WG Bun

Potato Wedges

Romaine Lettuce

Red Pepper Strips

Mandarin Oranges

Milk

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to provide a safe environment where all students can develop academically,

socially, physically, and emotionally. Students will be provided the opportunity to acquire

skills needed to participate in, and contribute to, society.

NEWMAN GROVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS Non-Profit Organization 101 SOUTH 8TH STREET, PO BOX 370 U.S. POSTAGE NEWMAN GROVE NE 68758-0370 Permit No. 14 Newman Grove, NE 68758

BOXHOLDER and RURAL ROUTE NEWMAN GROVE, NE 68758

The Bluejay Bulletin March, 2013

King Matt Finkral and

Queen Darienne Pokorny

The Winter Homecoming ceremony was held on Saturday evening, February 23rd. The evening began with

freshmen through senior classes proceeding in by introduction with a spot light for the crowd to see and applaud with

the introduction of the royal court soon following. Darienne Pokorny, daughter of Herb & Teri Pokorny and Matt Finkral, son of Mark & Linda Finkral, were

selected as homecoming Queen and King. This year’s maid of honor was Leslie Estrada-Gonzalez, daughter of José

Estrada & Maria Gonzalez. Jason Kaufman, son of Jim & Kathy Kaufman, was selected as the king’s attendant.

Other royalty candidates included Rachel Schroeter, daughter of David & Donna Schroeter; Brittney Wein-

man, daughter of Michael Plugge; Nick Flamme, son of Kevin & Pat Flamme; Braydon Kopejtka, son of Kevin Ko-

pejtka & Cinnamon Templar; Juan Sanchez-Maldonado, son of Juan Sanchez & Rocio Maldonado.

Carpet rollers were Billy O’Brien, son of Ed & Ruth O’Brien and Alex Wiese, son of Steve & Missy

Wiese. Candle lighters were Taylor Friedrich, daughter of Dan & Lisa Friedrich, and Brooke Pieke, daughter of Da-

vid & Cindy Pieke. The flower girl was Brooke Forre, daughter of Dusty & Erin Forre. The crown bearer was Cole

Lyon, son of Scott & Deb Lyon.

A dance followed coronation ceremonies. Tim Rossow and the FBLA organization were in charge of Winter

Homecoming arrangements.

Pictured (l-r): Taylor Friedrich, Brooke Pieke, Rachel Schroeter, Brittney Weinman, Leslie Estrada, Matt Finkral, Jason Kaufman,

Braydon Kopejtka, Nick Flamme, Juan Sanchez, Billy O’Brien, Alex Wiese. Front row: Brooke Forre, Darienne Pokorny, Cole Lyon