District News

Community presentation by Dr. Peter Benson to be broadcast on local cable TV

donna_adams — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:24:38 -0600

The Oct. 20 community presentation by Peter Benson, PhD, president of the Search Institute and author of Sparks: How Parents Can Ignite the Hidden Strengths of Teenagers, this year's Our Community Reads selection, will be shown on local cable television stations during the month of November.

In his presentation, Dr. Benson shared insights into asset development and the overall wellness of Hopkins-area youth, as well as strategies to help parents and other caring adults build assets or "sparks" in children and youth.

Incumbent and two new members elected to Hopkins School Board

donna_adams — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:57:48 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools' voters re-elected an incumbent and two new members to the Hopkins Board of Education, Tuesday, Nov. 3. Voters re-elected Betsy Scheurer, and elected Susan Wootten and Warren Goodroad. All will serve four-year terms, and the new school board members will begin their terms in January 2010. The newly elected School Board members will replace Directors Stan Berris and Sandy Forster, who did not seek re-election.

Vote totals, which were canvassed and approved by the Hopkins School Board at their meeting on Thursday, Nov. 5, include the following:

Hopkins Education Foundation to host annual Grant Showcase

donna_adams — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:49:55 -0600

The Hopkins Education Foundation (H.E.F.) will sponsor its annual Grant Showcase Open House on Thursday, Nov. 12, from 6:45 to 9:00 p.m. in the Commons Area at Hopkins High School.

The Grant Showcase provides an opportunity for the community to meet educators who have received H.E.F. grants and learn how their gifts are making a difference for students throughout the school district. Since 1995, H.E.F. has granted more than $1,700,000 to schools in the Hopkins School District.

U.S. Women's Olympic hockey team to play HHS boys' team

donna_adams — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:16:33 -0600

The 2009-10 U.S. Women's National Hockey Team will play the Hopkins High School boys' hockey team at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009, presenting a rare opportunity to see the U.S. Women's team play locally before the 2010 Olympics. The game will be held in the Hopkins Pavilion.

HHS 'Wizard of Oz' featured on Fox9 News

donna_adams — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:42:21 -0600

Hopkins High School's upcoming production of "The Wizard of Oz" was featured on the Fox9 Morning News on Tuesday, Nov. 3, with reporter M.A. Rosko interviewing director Mark Hauck and trying out the harness used on the flying monkeys. Watch the video here.

Royal Page receives top ratings in the state and the country

eileen_harvala — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:20:40 -0500

Hopkins High School's Royal Page newspaper again has been rated as among the best high school newspapers in the state and the country. Each year, the Royal Page is submitted for review by the National Scholastic Press Association, and the Minnesota High School Press Association/Journalism Educators of Minnesota. The Royal Page received exceptional reviews from both organizations.

XinXing Academy receives accolades from Confucius Institute

eileen_harvala — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:23:09 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' XinXing Academy—its students and staff members—received outstanding accolades from the director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Minnesota. XinXing Academy is part of Hopkins' Eisenhower Elementary School.

High School increases drug and alcohol awareness during Red Ribbon Week

eileen_harvala — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:33:09 -0500

Students are Hopkins High School are encouraging safe chemical free activities during Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-30. As part of Red Ribbon Week, a group of students at the high school, calling themselves Better Ways, created posters promoting better ways to have safe and healthy lifestyles, using data from the 2007 Minnesota Student Survey and the 2009 Search Institute survey. Marit Lee Dohse, high school student involvement coordinator on behalf of the Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice, is advising the group.

School district receives city of Hopkins Community Image Award

eileen_harvala — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:35:09 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools and its Building & Grounds Department have received a city of Hopkins' Community Image Award for its recent major deferred maintenance project at the Eisenhower Community Center. The district's Building & Grounds Supervisor Patrick Poquette will receive the award at the Hopkins City Council meeting, Wednesday, Nov. 4.

High School students seek toys for community service project

eileen_harvala — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:12:24 -0500

Students enrolled in Hopkins High School's ProPel (Professionals Providing Experiences for Life) mentorship class are seeking donations of new toys, books, games, or money as part of their class community service project. Donations will be given to the Simpson House, a Minneapolis-based housing service that helps families get back on their feet. Donations can be dropped off from Monday, Oct. 26, through Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Hopkins High School office, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka.

Join the Our Community Reads of 'Sparks: How Parents Can Ignite the Hidden Strengths of Teenagers'

eileen_harvala — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:23:39 -0500

The October 20 presentation with author and Search Institute president, Peter Benson, Ph.D., left parents and staff with a positive message and outlook of Hopkins youth. Participants learned how sparks can inspire kids to transform from surviving to thriving through asset building. Our community was challenged to learn more about asset development and start asking kids about their sparks and looking for ways to nurture them.

Secondary Program Study Survey for Parents

sid_voss — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:25:18 -0500

The Hopkins School Board directed the administration to conduct a secondary program review. The purpose of this study will be to proactively review the junior and senior high school program requirements and master schedule, keeping in mind the desire to provide optimal student learning and achievement within the resources available to the school district.

Two Hopkins WJH teachers present Google workshop at upcoming technology conference

eileen_harvala — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:17:15 -0500

Ben Friesen and Sean Beaverson, two Hopkins West Junior High teachers and Google Certified Teachers, will present a Google Workshop for Educators at this year's TIES Education Technology Conference in December.

Kindergarten information nights provide an opportunity to learn about Hopkins’ options

eileen_harvala — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:55:22 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools offers several kindergarten choices to fit a family's and their child's specific needs in the 2010-11 school year. Each of the district's elementary schools will be hosting an information night where parents can learn about the district, the schools, and those kindergarten options.

Information nights

Parents of 4 and 5-year-olds are invited to attend any of the kindergarten information nights to learn about the schools and choices for their child:

Eisenhower Elementary seeks volunteers for its after-school homework program

eileen_harvala — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:21:26 -0500

Eisenhower Elementary is seeking adult and high school student volunteers for its Just A.S.K. (After School Kids) homework completion program for students in 1st grade through 3rd grade. A.S.K. meets most Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. in the Eisenhower Media Center. For additional information, contact Just A.S.K. Coordinator Kathy Israel via email.

Volunteer opportunities available through Adult Options

eileen_harvala — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:53:39 -0500

Opportunities to tutor adults in English language skills or GED preparation are available with Adult Options in Education. Adult Options in Education provides free, confidential classes for adults who need English-language skills, a refresher in math, reading, or writing, or degree preparation. Volunteers are needed for weekday, evening, and Saturday morning classes. Volunteers can find the volunteer schedule and opportunity that works best for them. Training is provided.

Hopkins teacher receives innovative economic educator award

eileen_harvala — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:38:33 -0500

Mary LaBelle, a Challenge (gifted and talented) teacher at L.H. Tanglen Elementary School, has received a 3M Innovative Economic Educator Award from the Minnesota Council on Economic Education. She will receive her award at EconFest, Monday, Oct. 26. She will also present her 3rd grade learning activity that helps students think about themselves as a human resource during a mini-seminar at EconFest.

Hopkins’ Legislative Action Coalition seeks parent and community volunteers

eileen_harvala — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:40:48 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' Legislative Action Coalition (LAC) is seeking parent and community volunteers. The LAC assists the Hopkins School Board on education-related legislation by developing, proposing, and advocating for legislative positions. Volunteers can choose their level of service, ranging from receiving legislative information and calls-to-action via email, to planning school-based legislative advocacy activities, or serving on the Steering Committee, which develops the school district's legislative platform, organizes events, and plans advocacy activities.

National Merit Program—Commended Students 2010

terri_osland — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:23:06 -0500

Ten Hopkins High School students have received honors as National Merit Program Commended Students, including Dylan Browdie, Rachel Calvert, Laura Cooper, Gregory Cousins, Laura Crossley, Heather Englert, Chloe Hennes, John LaRoy, Madeline McDonnell, and Ashley Urspringer.

Gatewood’s Stepping Stones supports hunger drive and seeks community’s help

eileen_harvala — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:56:12 -0500

Gatewood's Stepping Stones is helping Tonkadale Nursery scare away hunger this October. The preschool class created one of the scarecrows currently on display at Tonkadale Nursery, 3739 Tonkadale Road, Minnetonka. However, Stepping Stones needs votes from school and community members to win. Vote by bringing a food item or $1 donation to Tonkadale. All proceeds will be given to Intercongregation Communities Association (ICA) food shelf.

Donations needed for Toy Chest Drive

eileen_harvala — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 19:06:53 -0500

ResourceWest (formerly the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center) is seeking donations of new toys or cash for its annual Toy Chest drive. A variety of toys and gift cards are needed for children aged newborn to 18.

Preparing for the future starts early in Hopkins Public Schools

eileen_harvala — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:21:41 -0500

Preparing all students for success after high school begins early in Hopkins-at 6th grade. The goal of Hopkins' 6-12 and Beyond program is to help students and their parents plan and prepare for post-secondary education.

"It is vitally important for kids to be academically prepared for post-secondary education/training, and also for them to understand the process of achieving their goals," said Nick Abel, Hopkins High School counselor and 6-12 and Beyond coordinator.

High School’s Royal Den Playschool accepting enrollment applications

eileen_harvala — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:58:28 -0500

Hopkins High School's Royal Den Playschool is accepting applications for enrollment. The program will run December and January, three to four days a week in the mornings. For additional information, contact Gayle Durand at 952.988.4715, or via email.

Hopkins School Board candidates forum, Tuesday, Oct. 27

eileen_harvala — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:38:01 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) is hosting a school board candidates forum from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, at the Eisenhower Community Center (Room 213), 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. All candidates have been invited to participate. This will be an opportunity for parents to meet the candidates and learn more about their philosophies regarding special education and its place in the public schools.

Special Education Advisory Committee on Facebook

eileen_harvala — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 19:01:33 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) has a new group on Facebook. The Facebook group is a way to get information, meet parents and special education advocates, share resources, post links, and connect using social networking. Join the group

Students to volunteer 2,500 hours in Helping Hands community service project

eileen_harvala — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:42:02 -0500

Imagine 1,000 people volunteering 2,500 hours to help with nonprofit community organizations over a three-day period. That's exactly what's happening at Hopkins West Junior High during the mornings of Wednesday, Oct. 21, through Friday, Oct. 23. All students at the school will be participating in the Helping Hands community service project.

The goal of this school wide project is to provide opportunities for young people to make a difference in their community, and to allow them to experience the sense of satisfaction that comes by serving others.

Winter Warm Wear donations needed

eileen_harvala — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 19:03:38 -0500

Cold weather is coming, and children in Hopkins Public Schools need Winter Warm Wear. You can help by donating gently used, clean coats, snow pants, boots, and new hats & water proof mittens to ResourceWest (formerly the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center). All sizes are needed, from newborn to adult. Cash donations are also being accepted.

‘The Wizard of Oz' comes to Hopkins

eileen_harvala — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:28:54 -0500

"Follow, follow, follow, follow, follow the yellow brick road" to Hopkins High School Royal Productions' adaptation of the classic MGM film, The Wizard of Oz.

Hopkins students excel in Advanced Placement

eileen_harvala — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:14:30 -0500

Hopkins' students excel in Advanced Placement (AP): 159 students earned 162 AP Scholar honors from the College Board in recognition of their outstanding achievement on rigorous exams that they took in the spring of 2009.

Early Childhood Family Education offers new infant class, starting Oct. 20

eileen_harvala — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:46:01 -0500

Early Childhood Family Education is offering a new infant class on Tuesday, Oct. 20 through Dec. 8, from 4 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. While parents and babies (7 months through15 months of age) connect and play, a parent educator leads discussion on topics such as infant growth and development, sleeping, nutrition, and how babies learn and play. The classes will be held at the Harley Hopkins Family Center, 125 Monroe Ave. S., Hopkins. Fees are determined according to a sliding fee scale based on gross family income. Care for children, birth to kindergarten, is available for $5 per child.

Grade point average earns softball team top national honors

eileen_harvala — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:11:37 -0500

On the field and off, Hopkins High School's girls' fastpitch softball team excels. With its outstanding grade point average (GPA), the team has, once again, claimed the top spot in the nation on the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Top Ten All-Academic Teams. The softball team tied for first place in the non-weighted category along with Madison County High School in Georgia. Both teams had GPAs of 3.812. The NFCA honors high school and collegiate softball teams for their success in the classroom.

Community invited to school safety forum, Monday, Oct. 5

eileen_harvala — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:34:07 -0500

Parents and community members are invited to a forum on school safety scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5, at Gatewood Elementary School, 14900 Gatewood Drive, Minnetonka. Join John Schultz, Ph.D., superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools, and members of the Superintendent's Parent Learning Academy for a panel discussion on school safety and security. Panelists include Amy Weinzierl, Hopkins Public Schools' environmental health & safety coordinator, and representatives from the Hopkins Fire Department and Minnetonka Police Department.

Young People’s Concert, Tuesday, Oct. 27

eileen_harvala — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:26:23 -0500

The Hopkins High School Symphony Orchestra will present its 10th annual Young People's Concert—a bedtime concert designed especially for families with preschool-aged through 5th-grade children—at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, in the Hopkins High School (HHS) gymnasium, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. A light, child-friendly program is planned that will include Disney songs and other children's favorites. The program will last about an hour. Children are encouraged to come dressed in pajamas, and to bring pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals for a true bedtime concert.

AVID: Supporting Your Student’s Academic Success, Thursday, Oct. 1

eileen_harvala — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:30:30 -0500

Parents of children in 7th grade through 12 grade are invited to learn more about Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), Thursday, Oct. 1. Shannon Bailey, AVID district director and instructor, will present information and answer questions from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Little Theater at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. This presentation is targeted for parents with students in the academic middle who have the potential to go to college and have the willingness to work hard. Strategies and resources will be shared to promote college readiness.

One Voice, Our Voice: Reducing Youth Chemical Use DVD presentations, Thursday, Oct. 1

eileen_harvala — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:32:47 -0500

During conferences at Hopkins High School, Thursday, Oct. 1, Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice will be airing its DVD, One Voice, Our Voice: Reducing Youth Chemical Use. The DVD will be shown on the hour, starting at 1 p.m. and ending at 7 p.m., in Room W230 at the high school. The 12-minute DVD features voices from Hopkins parents, staff members, and community members. There is no cost and no registration is required.

Hopkins High School juniors urged to take the PSAT, Wednesday, Oct. 14

eileen_harvala — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:19:06 -0500

Hopkins High School juniors considering college should sign up to take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT), which will be administered from 7:47 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, at the high school. The cost is $15; however, a limited number of fee waivers are available.

Students may purchase tickets at the High School from Monday, Sept. 28, through Wednesday, Oct. 7. Tickets are sold before and after school in the Guidance Office, and during lunch by the cafeteria. Tickets also will be sold, Thursday, Oct. 1, during conferences from 1:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Ignite the hidden strengths of our youth: Discover the powerful steps, Tuesday, Oct. 20

eileen_harvala — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:31:13 -0500

Parents, community members, and Hopkins Public Schools staff members are invited to a community presentation on how to ignite the hidden strengths of youth. The free community presentation, Sparks: How Parents Can Help Ignite the Hidden Strengths of Teenagers, with Peter Benson, Ph.D., author and president of the Search Institute, is scheduled for 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

Information about H1N1 novel influenza

eileen_harvala — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:40:16 -0500

We want to provide you with updated information on the H1N1 novel influenza, which includes fact sheets, state reporting requirements, and a checklist that you can use if your child is ill.

Baby Sign Language class, Tuesday, Sept. 29

eileen_harvala — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:42:55 -0500

Learn how to use and teach your infant Baby Sign Language. Kathie Dormanen, parent educator, will teach parents and their infants (0-18 months) some of the basics of baby sign language during a workshop set for 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, at the Harley Hopkins Family Center, 125 Monroe Ave. S., Hopkins. The cost is $10 per adult, or $15 per household. Child care for children, birth to kindergarten, is available for $5 per child. Please call 952.988.5000 to register.

Welcome to the 2009-10 School Year

eileen_harvala — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:29:06 -0500

By Superintendent John Schultz & Board Chair Yvonne Selcer

School Board sets preliminary tax levy; invites input from residents

eileen_harvala — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:22:13 -0500

The Hopkins School Board considered all of its levy options when setting the district's preliminary tax levy, Thursday, Sept. 17. A proposed preliminary levy of $39, 021,854—an 8.29 percent increase—for taxes payable 2010, will be reflected on this year's tax notices, which will be mailed this fall in preparation for upcoming "truth in taxation" public hearings. The preliminary levy has been set at the maximum, giving school board members the most flexibility in determining the district's final levy in December.

Hopkins hires coordinator for readiness and emergency response plan grant

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:52:24 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools has hired Paul McCullough to coordinate its $246,500 Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools (REMS) grant.

McCullough has more than 30 years of police service with the city of Bloomington. He served as a commander with a number of different assignments such as patrol commander, professional standards commander, and emergency manager for the city. As the emergency manager, McCullough updated the city's emergency plan, and conducted three full-scale exercises involving police, fire, and emergency medical services.

Hopkins North Junior High students participate in International Day of Peace, Monday, Sept. 21

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:31:05 -0500

One thousand, colorful, handmade pinwheels will line Cedar Lake Road, Monday, Sept. 21, as part of Hopkins North Junior High's participation in the International Day of Peace and Ceasefire—Peace One Day.

Blake Road corridor improvement efforts receive international recognition

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:04:13 -0500

The Hopkins Police Department and its Joint Community Policing Project has received the 2009 International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Civil Rights Award. The Joint Community Policing Project was a result of the city's, school district's, and community's efforts to address quality of life issues for residents living in the Blake Road corridor.

The award is given to the JCPP in the multi-agency category. The award committee noted the work to "enhance civil and human rights in our communities through civic engagement."

Six Hopkins High School seniors named National Merit semifinalists

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 10:56:42 -0500

Six Hopkins High School seniors—Keelin Gallup, Robert Gao, Jennifer Loheit, Eshaan Rao, Lauren Sadowsky, and Sarah Snyder—have been named semifinalists in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship competition. These students represent the top one-half of one percent of high school seniors in the country. They earned this honor by being among the highest scorers in the nation on the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) that they took as juniors.

Assistance sought for Helping Hands community service project, Oct. 21-23

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:08:58 -0500

Assistance from parents, residents, and non-profit organizations is needed for Hopkins West Junior High's Helping Hands community service project, Wednesday, Oct. 21, through Friday, Oct. 23. Helping Hands is an opportunity for the school's youth to make a difference in the community, and to experience the satisfaction of serving others.

What's needed

Volunteers and donations are needed:

Students develop marketing campaign for Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:09:52 -0500

This summer, six Hopkins High School students spent four weeks serving as marketing interns to the Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice for Reducing Youth Chemical Use (HCC: One Voice).

The marketing interns included 9th grader Anna Brude-Crandall, 10th graders Nawang Chodon, Drakirah Glenn, Samathan McCarroll-Hyne, and Skyler Dorr, and 12th grader Karl Paske.

Major grant enables Hopkins to develop innovative Chinese immersion curriculum

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:16:42 -0500

Hopkins, working in collaboration with two other Minnesota school districts, received a major Foreign Language Assistance (FLAP) grant from the United States Department of Education. The five-year, $1.4 million, FLAP grant will enable Hopkins to develop a well-articulated, kindergarten through 12th grade, Mandarin Chinese immersion program that has a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curricular focus.

Our Community Reads and community forum focuses on assets for children and youth

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:16:20 -0500

This year's Our Community Reads and community forum focuses on how parents and community members can nurture, build, and support assets for children and youth. This year's book is Sparks: How Parents Can Ignite the Hidden Strengths of Teenagers, written by Peter Benson, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Search Institute. Benson is the keynote speaker at this year's community forum, which is scheduled for 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

Homecoming Week, Sept. 20-25

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:30:09 -0500

Hopkins High School will celebrate Homecoming Week, Monday, Sept. 20, through Friday, Sept. 25. The activities include:

Coaching your kids to better nutrition . . . one bite at a time

linda_wareham — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 10:57:50 -0500

Want to be a coach? Parents and guardians are needed to be volunteer food coaches. Food coaching is an exciting new approach to motivate kids to try new foods and eat nutritious meals. As parents and guardians, kids look up to you to make food choices. Consider becoming a part of the coaching team today!

What you'll do:

Five people file for Hopkins School Board

eileen_harvala — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:54:13 -0500

Five people have filed for three four-year positions on the Hopkins School Board. Candidates include incumbent Betsy Scheurer of Golden Valley, Israel E. Alguindigue of Minnetonka, Paul Scofield or Golden Valley, Warren R. Goodroad of Minnetonka, and Susan M. Wootten of Minnetonka. Board directors Stan Berris and Sandy Forster did not file for re-election. The school board election is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Hopkins Public Schools seeking instrument donations

eileen_harvala — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:41:46 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' Music Department is seeking donations of used brass, woodwind, percussion, and string instruments. The district will accept instruments in any working condition. Each instrument will be evaluated and repaired if necessary, or used as a trade if beyond fixing. Donations may be left at any school office. Hopkins will provide a letter of thanks that can be filed with tax returns. So the instruments can be put to good use this year, please consider donating by Friday, Oct. 16.

Response to President Obama's address, Tuesday, Sept. 8

eileen_harvala — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 20:48:47 -0500

Dear Parents and Community Members,

We have fielded phone calls and email messages from parents and community members about President Obama's planned address to school children, Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Hopkins High School Nurse named Nurse of the Year

eileen_harvala — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:30:25 -0500

The School Nurse Organization Board of Directors has named Bobbi Pointer the 2009 School Nurse of the Year. Pointer is the school nurse at Hopkins High School. This award publicly recognizes school nurses in Minnesota by annually honoring one school nurse who demonstrates excellence in school nursing practice and leadership in school health. Pointer's knowledge, dedication, leadership, and passion for the health and academic success of her students have earned her this prestigious award.

Look for your fall 2009 Adult & Youth catalogs

kris_koshiol — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:41:19 -0500

Fall Adult Enrichment classes are currently online, or look for your fall catalog in the mail in late August. Classes range from art to cooking to fitness to money. Check out more than 150 classes today, and try something new!

Hopkins School Board decides not to conduct a fall referendum; undertakes in-depth analysis of levy options

eileen_harvala — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:19:23 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools will not be conducting a referendum in November 2009. However, it will be undertaking an in-depth analysis of its levy options in preparation for tax levy discussions this fall. This decision comes on the wake of a community survey, which shows that residents are deeply concerned about the economy, and new information showing that the school district is not levying to its maximum capacity.

Early Childhood’s annual open house/vehicle fair, Friday, Sept. 11

eileen_harvala — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:47:22 -0500

Early Childhood Family Education's annual open house and vehicle fair is planned for 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, at the Harley Hopkins Family Center, 125 Monroe Ave. S., Hopkins. This free event includes the opportunity to explore a police car, fire truck, garbage truck, school bus, bobcat, snow plow, and more. There will be free refreshments provided by Caribou Coffee, Cub Foods Bakery, Great Harvest Bread, and McDonald's. There also will be face painting, and classroom activities.

School district community invited to Hopkins in Motion

eileen_harvala — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:20:47 -0500

The school district community is invited to Hopkins in Motion, which is planned for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12.

Hopkins in Motion is sponsored by the city of Hopkins and the Hopkins Business & Civic Association. It is a celebration of walk-ability and livability of Hopkins.

Applications being accepted for Hopkins North Junior High’s Playschool

eileen_harvala — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:13:00 -0500

Applications are being accepted for September enrollment into Hopkins North Junior High's Playschool. The Playschool is part of a 9th-grade Family and Consumer Sciences class. The Playschool is planned and implemented by 9th-grade students and consists of learning activities that are developmentally appropriate for preschoolers as well as nutritious snacks. This year, Playschool will start in mid-September and run until mid-January. The time is from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. The program is offered at no charge.

Registration for Hopkins Champions Fund Golf & Tennis Tournament being accepted now

eileen_harvala — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:35:42 -0500

Registration is open for the annual Champions Fund Golf & Tennis Tournament, scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 17, at the Oak Ridge Country Club, 700 Oak Ridge Road, Hopkins. The activities program in the Hopkins School District provides arts and athletic participation opportunities to students in 7th grade through 12th grade.

Adult Options receives awards from Literacy Minnesota

eileen_harvala — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:58:44 -0500

Adult Options in Education brought home two awards from Literacy Minnesota's 2009 awards banquet.

Ann Gilbert, intake and placement specialist for the Adult Options in Education consortium, was honored with the Leadership Award. Gilbert was honored for her work in spearheading an educationally-focused support system for ABE registration and testing services staff.

Registration for Adult Options in Education classes open; classes start Sept. 14

eileen_harvala — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:24:00 -0500

Registration for Adult Options in Education classes is open at the Eisenhower Community Center. Classes start, Monday, Sept. 14.

Adult Options in Education offers classes for adults who need English-language skills (ESL classes); a refresher in math, reading, or writing; or general educational development (GED) preparation. All Adult Options In Education classes are free and confidential. Transportation and childcare assistance may be available for registered students.

Focus on integrated technology yields benefits for Hopkins

eileen_harvala — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:40:30 -0500

Due to Hopkins Public Schools' focus on integrating technology into the classroom to enhance learning and instruction, the school district was the host site for a Google Workshop for Educators in early August. More than 50 teachers from throughout Minnesota attended the two-day workshop.

Soup with the Superintendent

eileen_harvala — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:53:15 -0500

Soup, sandwich, and conversation with the superintendent are on the agenda for three Soup with the Superintendent gatherings planned for the 2009-10 school year. Parents and district residents are invited to join Superintendent John Schultz, Ph.D., for a soup and sandwich supper and an informal discussion. All of the sessions begin at 5:30 p.m. Sessions are scheduled for:

Engineering is Elementary

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 10:51:32 -0500

With a $2.5 million grant from the Cargill Foundation to the Science Museum of Minnesota, Hopkins is participating in the Engineering is Elementary Alliance for Curriculum Implementation and Support (EiE/ACIS) project—a multi-year program designed to increase the quality and quantity of engineering education in the district's six elementary schools. Minneapolis Public Schools is also a participant in this four-year project.

Expansion of Infinite Campus with more information for parents

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:06:02 -0500

Beginning this fall, lunch balance, payment and purchase information will be available on the Infinite Campus parent portal. Please note: Parents will receive more information about the payment system when it is activated the week of Aug. 17. Also available on the portal is information about bus routes, attendance, immunization compliance, state and local assessments, and for secondary students—schedule, homework assignment, and grade book information.

What's New for 2009-10

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 10:45:59 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools is starting the 2009-10 school year with new innovative programs and initiatives designed to improve learning for all students and to engage the community in two-way communications.

Emergency response planning

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:13:42 -0500

Hopkins has received a major federal grant of $246,500 to improve its readiness and emergency response plan. Hopkins is the only school district in the state and one of only 108 school districts in the country to receive a grant from the U.S. Department of Education as part of its Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools (REMS) discretionary grant program.

Response to Intervention

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:02:44 -0500

Hopkins has created a multi-tier elementary intervention program designed to meet the needs of students. Based on student achievement data, along with classroom teacher judgment, students may receive some of their instruction from a team of instructional staff members. This program will supplement the core classroom curriculum, will be focused on providing differentiated instruction, and will have a strong focus on reading and mathematics. The overall goal is to use the available resources in the best way possible to maximize instructional classroom support.

Graduation Planning 6-12 and Beyond

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:00:04 -0500

With a $28,000 grant from the Hopkins Education Foundation, Hopkins is continuing with its Graduation Planning 6-12 and Beyond project. By providing information and helpful tools, Hopkins is assisting students and families make successful transitions from elementary to secondary education levels, preparing students for college-readiness and leading productive lives beyond high school.

Mental health partnership

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:11:13 -0500

A grant and partnership with St. David's Center helps Hopkins address the emerging and complex mental health needs of young children and their families in the community.

Hopkins Grapevine

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:16:08 -0500

Have a question? Heard a rumor? Check out the Hopkins Grapevine. Post your question, and an answer will be posted.

Soup with the Superintendent at Hopkins High School, Thursday, Oct. 8

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:20:57 -0500

High school parents—Thursday, Oct. 8, at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka;
Junior high parents—Tuesday, Jan.
read more

Open houses and other events welcome students and families

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 16:49:13 -0500

All of Hopkins' schools will conduct open houses and other welcoming events in August and September.

Directory information/military recruiters

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:33:02 -0500

By law, student names and other directory information are public information. Directory information includes name, address, gender, telephone listing, grade level, school, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, previous educational agency or institution attended by a student, and pictures or video images for school district-approved publications, newspapers, or website.

Early-release days for secondary schools

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:09:52 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools will have four early-release days during the 2009-10 school year for its secondary schools—Hopkins High School, Hopkins North Junior High, and Hopkins West Junior High—which affect 7th-12th grade students. School ends at 11:53 a.m. on early release days. The schedule of early-release days:

Thursday, Oct. 1
Thursday, Dec. 10
Thursday, Feb. 25
Thursday, May 6

School nutrition/student dining

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:18:42 -0500

Meal prices

Breakfast:

Free for free/reduced price (all grades)
$1.25 for elementary students (K-6th grade)
$1.75 for secondary students (7th-12th grade)
$2.05 for adults

Lunch:

40 cents for reduced price (all grades)
$2.45 for elementary students (K-6th grade)
$2.70 for junior high (7th-9th grade)
$2.95 for high school (10th-12th grade)
$3.45 adult lunch (elementary & junior high)
$3.60 adult lunch (high school)

Despite achievement strides, some Hopkins schools impacted by adequate yearly progress

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:54:35 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' results on state achievement tests are a mixture of good news and challenges. Overall, Hopkins' students performed better on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments Series II (MCA-II) than the state average at all grade levels in reading and mathematics. Hopkins students also continue to show improvement over last year's results, with more students reaching proficiency.

Back-to-School 2009-10

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 16:37:11 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools expects to welcome about 7,600 students in kindergarten through 12th grade when the 2009-10 school begins. The first day of school for students in 1st grade through 12th grade is Monday, Aug. 31 (before Labor Day). Kindergarten starts, Tuesday, Sept. 1.

School Closings & Emergencies

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:42:13 -0500

The Connect-ED® message system will be Hopkins Public Schools' primary notification system if winter storms or other emergencies cause the school district to close school for the day, delay the beginning of the school day, or close school early. An announcement will be sent as early as 6:30 a.m. when school will be closed or start late. Early dismissal from school in session will be announced approximately one hour before dismissal.

Orientations/information sessions acquaint students and their parents with secondary schools

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 16:58:40 -0500

All three of Hopkins' secondary schools—Hopkins High School, Hopkins North Junior High, and Hopkins West Junior High—have scheduled orientations for incoming and new students and their families.

Hopkins High School

Hopkins High School's orientation for incoming 10th graders and other new students is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26.

Late-start dates scheduled for 2009–10

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:02:12 -0500

All Hopkins Public Schools, grades K-12, will have seven late-start days during the 2009-10 school year. During these late starts, teachers will be working together in planning and preparing learning experiences for children. The time used by teachers during the late-start days is in addition to staff development done during the summer and outside of the school day. Late-start days for 2009-10 are:

Bus assignments

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:16:09 -0500

The week before school starts, information about students' assigned bus stops, pick-up times, and bus numbers will be mailed to the homes of all students who are eligible for transportation. Bus route information also is posted at each school. Families who believe they are eligible for transportation, but who do not receive a bus assignment mailing by Aug. 24, should call Hopkins Public Schools' Transportation Office at 952.988.4115.

No school days for secondary students

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:12:54 -0500

There will be no school for 7th-12th grade students on Monday, Nov. 2, Monday, Jan. 25, Friday, March 26, and Friday, May 7.

Expansion of Infinite Campus information for parents

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:45:01 -0500

Beginning this fall, lunch balance, payment and purchase informationwill be available on the Infinite Campus parent portal. Please note: Parents will receive more information about the payment system when it is activated the week of Aug. 17. Also available on the portal is information about bus routes, attendance, immunization compliance, state and local assessments, and for secondary students-schedule, homework assignment, and grade book information. Parents who have an existing portal account will find the food service information available on their current account in mid- to late-August.

School year starts before Labor Day

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 16:46:35 -0500

The first day of school for students in 1st grade through 12 grade is Monday, August 31, rather than the day after Labor Day. Kindergarten starts, Tuesday, Sept. 1.

Teacher qualifications

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:48:52 -0500

Parents of students who attend one of Hopkins Public Schools' Title I schools—Alice Smith Elementary School, Eisenhower Elementary School, Gatewood Elementary School, and L.H. Tanglen Elementary School—have the right, under the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLBA) of 2001, to know the professional qualifications of the teachers who instruct their children. The NCLBA gives parents the right to ask for the following information about each child's classroom teachers:

Immunizations

eileen_harvala — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:36:04 -0500

Ensure that your child's immunizations are up to day. For example, beginning in September 2009, parents of children entering kindergarten or 7th grade will need to:

Show proof their child has either received two chickenpox (varicella) shots or has had the disease, OR
Show proof of a medical exemption signed by the child's healthcare provider, OR
File a notarized waiver with their school if they are conscientiously opposed to chickenpox vaccine.

Students develop marketing campaigns for Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice

eileen_harvala — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:19:00 -0500

This summer, six Hopkins High School students spent four weeks—about 64 hours—serving as marketing interns to the Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice for Reducing Youth Chemical Use (HCC: One Voice). They created two campaigns: It's "YOUR VOICE, YOUR CHOICE" and there are, "BETTER WAYS" to live your life drug and alcohol free.

Inspiring children's dreams: Breakfast Club honored with Child Advocate of the Year Award

eileen_harvala — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:53:16 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' Breakfast Club and its coordinator Al Johnson were honored for inspiring children's dreams with a Child Advocate of the Year Award from Tix for Tots. The Breakfast Club received this honor, Sunday, Aug. 16, at a special event before the Minnesota Twins game at the Metrodome.

Hopkins Trap Shooting Club takes first place at state championship

eileen_harvala — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 14:31:56 -0500

Members of the 2008-09 Hopkins High School Trap Shooting Club took first place honors at the Minnesota State Trap Shooting Championship, which was conducted in Alexandria, MN, on July 11. The squad of five represented the 45-member Hopkins club in the Scholastic Clay Target Division.

The squad broke a total of 915 targets during the event. Club member Tanner Hilgers had a club record and personal best of 75 straight targets. This is the first Hopkins trap shooting team to take first place honors in a state competition.

Kindergarten playground nights

eileen_harvala — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:11:44 -0500

Hopkins' elementary schools are hosting playground nights for incoming kindergartners and their parents. This is an informal opportunity to meet other families of kindergartners and classmates from their schools. Staff members from the schools will be present to answer questions and to share information about their school.

Weather permitting, kindergarten playground nights are planned for:

2009-10 Calendar & Info

sid_voss — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:49:41 -0500

Hopkins School District families will find our 2009-10 calendar and information in their mailboxes. Along with the yearly calendar, the flier includes back to school events and other important information.

If your children are in the Hopkins District and you did not receive a calendar in the mail, please call 952.988.4105, or send us an email with your name, address, and phone number and we will drop a calendar in the mail to you.

Hopkins students exceed state averages on state tests

linda_wareham — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:06:01 -0500

Hopkins students continue to score higher than state averages on the state Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments-II in reading, math, and science. Hopkins students also continue to show improvement over last year's results, with more students reaching proficiency.

Planned power outage closes district offices

linda_wareham — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:57:05 -0500

Construction at the Eisenhower Community and Service Center is progressing well this summer.

Although we try to minimize disruptions throughout the construction, construction requirements sometime create unavoidable obstacles.

ResourceWest conducts back-to-school supply program

eileen_harvala — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:55:09 -0500

ResourceWest, formerly the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center, is conducting its annual back-to-school supply program, seeking donations and accepting registrations. It is accepting back-to-school supply donations through Wednesday, Aug. 19. Families can register to receive supplies from Monday, Aug. 10, through Friday, Aug. 14. Distribution will be Tuesday, Aug. 25, through Friday, Aug. 28.

Infrastructure improvements give new life to vintage buildings

eileen_harvala — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:48:31 -0500

What's old is not only new again, but much improved. Hopkins Public Schools' Eisenhower Community Center is getting a major re-do, which, when completed, will restore the architectural look of the building to what it was when first built in 1956. The major difference—this time, windows will not be semi-transparent glass blocks, but insulated, energy efficient windows that will let natural light into offices, classrooms, and conference rooms.

Workshop designed for people interested in serving on Hopkins School Board

eileen_harvala — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:29:47 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools is conducting a workshop for people interested in filing for the November 2009 school board election. The workshop is schedule for 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, in Room 215 at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins.

The evening includes presentations by the school district's superintendent and school board officers:

Basics skills summer school anything but 'basic'

eileen_harvala — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:45:58 -0500

It may be called basic skills summer school, but it is anything but basic. It's about focused learning. It's about believing that some concentrated efforts in the summer can and do make a difference. And it's about relationships. Basic skills summer school is available for students in 1st grade through 12th grade who have been referred by their teachers.

Hopkins offers extensive summer programs

eileen_harvala — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:19:04 -0500

School's out . . . School's in for summer. From the youngest of learners to the oldest, Hopkins Public Schools offers one of the most intensive summer learning programs in that state. There is learning. There is fun. And hundreds of students participate. Components of the school district's summer learning program include enrichment classes, basic skills classes, extended-day activities, and site-specific programs.

Royal Cuisine provides breakfast & lunch this summer

eileen_harvala — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:04:57 -0500

Royal Cuisine, Hopkins Public Schools' student nutrition program, did not take the summer off, but, instead, fed students enrolled in the school district's summer programs and community members as well.

Through funding from the United States Department of Agriculture, Royal Cuisine served about 100 free breakfasts and 120 free lunches per day at Alice Smith Elementary, the former Katherine Curren facility, Hopkins North Junior High, and Hopkins West Junior High.

Enrichment classes meet students' interests

eileen_harvala — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:25:29 -0500

For two months, Hopkins Community Education offers a variety of fee-based summer enrichment classes for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Thirty-eight class sections are offered, with a total of 502 students participating. Some of the more popular courses include Spybots, Science Kaleidoscope, Advanced Golf, Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), Showtime, Italian Cooking, and XinXing Summer Camp.

Afternoon Replay provides students with enrichment opportunities

eileen_harvala — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:30:55 -0500

A unique component of Hopkins' summer programming is Afternoon Replay, which provides an opportunity for students attending morning basic skills classes to participate in enrichment classes in the afternoon. Afternoon Replay serves 127 students in 1st grade through 9th grade who live in high-density housing areas of Hopkins and Minnetonka, including apartment and condominium complexes along the Blake Road as well as Brentwood, Minnetonka Mills, and Renaissance Court.

Family Resource Center changes name to ResourceWest

eileen_harvala — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:47:11 -0500

On July 18, 2009, Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center changes it name to ResourceWest. With the new name in place, the community-based nonprofit organization will continue to connect area residents with needed resources.

Hopkins receives major grant to improve emergency response plan

eileen_harvala — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:25:53 -0500

Graduation video available for viewing

eileen_harvala — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:52:31 -0500

Hopkins' KHOP television studio has produced a video of graduation 2009. To watch the video, click on the link below.

Hopkins teacher receives Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

eileen_harvala — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:33:06 -0500

Barbara Stoflet, a 6th-grade teacher at Gatewood Elementary School, has received a prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Young gardeners' vegetables donated to local food shelf

eileen_harvala — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:16:31 -0500

Like Mr. McGregor, young gardeners at Meadowbrook Elementary School are tending a salsa-themed vegetable garden, which is located in the school's courtyard, and harvesting some of the produce. Recently, students and parents delivered lettuce and herbs to PRISM, the food shelf serving the Golden Valley community. Neighbors added vegetables from their own backyard gardens, and a large cooler full of fresh vegetables was delivered.

Hopkins considers November referendum

eileen_harvala — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:42:34 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools is considering conducting a referendum on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, which may include an excess operating levy increase, and an increased capital projects levy for curriculum and technology. The Hopkins School Board is scheduled to make a decision on whether to conduct the election at its meeting, Thursday, Aug. 20.

Hopkins graduate wins Minnesota Biodiesel Essay Contest

eileen_harvala — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:18:35 -0500

Emily Johnson of Minnetonka, a recent graduate of Hopkins High School, has been awarded first place in the 2009 Minnesota Clean Air Choice scholarship essay contest, presented by the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association and the American Lung Association in Minnesota. Johnson received $1,000 for her winning essay, "The Benefits of the Use of Biodiesel." Her award-winning essay is posted on the Clean Air Choice website.

Hopkins Education Foundation seeks new executive director

eileen_harvala — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 08:52:45 -0500

The Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) is conducting a search for a new executive director. Information about this career opportunity is posted until Monday, July 6, on the Minnesota Council for Non-Profits website. To learn more about the HEF, please visit its website.

Grant focuses on early childhood mental health issues

eileen_harvala — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:49:52 -0500

Grant and partnership with St. David's Center helps Hopkins address the emerging and complex mental health needs of young children and their families in the community.

HWJH team of ‘knowledge masters’ finishes fifth in national academic competition

eileen_harvala — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:11:08 -0500

Six players from the national award-winning Hopkins West Junior High Knowledge Master team finished fifth in the invitation-only Junior National Academic Competition in Washington, D.C. The team, consisting of 9th graders Sreyas Chintapalli, Lucas Menzies, and Alex Tisher, 8th graders Graham Giesting and Rachel Gorlin, and 7th grader Tim Bergeland, made it to the "Elite 8" of the final round, losing to the eventual winner of the competition.

Junior high orchestras earn first-place ratings

eileen_harvala — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:18:10 -0500

Orchestras from Hopkins North Junior High and Hopkins West Junior High earned first-place ratings at the Music in the Parks Festival, which was conducted in Chicago. The schools' combined 7th-grade and the schools' combined 8th/9th-grade orchestras received first-place ratings in their divisions at the festival.

HandsOn volunteers spruce up Glen Lake

eileen_harvala — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:42:25 -0500

Volunteers—120—made a difference at Glen Lake Elementary School as part of this year's HandsOn Twin Cities' annual serv-athon.

Hopkins High School feted at SpotLight Awards, Sunday, June 14

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:29:14 -0500

Hopkins High School's production of "It's a Wonderful Life," will be honored at Hennepin Theatre Trust's SpotLight Awards 7 p.m. Sunday, June 14, at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis.

The SpotLight Awards recognize high schools that present musical theater. Tickets to the awards ceremony are $12 and are available on the Hennepin Theatre Trust website.

Hopkins, once again, ranked as one of the top high schools in the country

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 16:01:45 -0500

Hopkins High School is, once again, ranked among the top high schools in the country by Newsweek magazine. This is the fifth consecutive year that Hopkins has received the high ranking of being in the top 6 percent of secondary public schools in the country.

Hopkins was one of 11 Twin Cities suburban high schools among the top 1,500 secondary facilities in the country, according to Newsweek magazine. Hopkins High School was ranked 1,120.

GED graduation celebrates achievement

eileen_harvala — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:22:07 -0500

Adult Options in Education's General Educational Development (GED) graduation ceremony, Tuesday, June 2, celebrated the achievement of more than 50 graduates who received their diplomas.

Reminder: 2009-10 school year starts Monday, Aug. 31

eileen_harvala — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:09:04 -0500

Please keep in mind that the first day of school next fall in Hopkins Public Schools will be Monday, August 31, rather than the day after Labor Day.

State law authorizes school districts with renovation projects in their buildings to have some flexibility in establishing their school calendar. Hopkins is working on major maintenance projects at many of its buildings such as stonework tuckpointing and restoration, roof repairs, etc.

Hopkins School Board honors 2008-09 retirees

eileen_harvala — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:27:55 -0500

In May, the Hopkins School Board honored 15 retirees for their years of service to Hopkins Public Schools, celebrating their accomplishments and thanking them for their contributions of the school community. The retirees contributed more 325 years of service to the school district. The 2008-09 retirees included:

New principal hired for Eisenhower Elementary School

eileen_harvala — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 18:31:04 -0500

Hopkins' basic skills summer program

sid_voss — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:15:17 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' basic skills summer school program begins, Monday, June 15, with four-week (7th-9th grades) and five-week (1st-6th grades) Area Learning Center (ALC) programs. The high school has a summer program through the Hopkins Alternative Program (HAP).

Registration was completed May 30, and all classes are full.

Courses held where?

The elementary program will be at L.H. Tanglen Elementary School. The junior high programs will be at Hopkins West Junior High, Hopkins North Junior High, and Hopkins High School.

Students apply construction and math skills to build DNR cabin

eileen_harvala — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:14:09 -0500

Students enrolled in the Carpentry & Building Construction with Applied Math course at Hopkins High School have built a small cabin that will be placed in a state park. The Department of National Resources was invited to a celebration marking the completion of the cabin. The cabin provides sleeping areas for five people. The Department of National Resources provided the funds to purchase all of the building materials for the cabin. This summer, the cabin will be moved to Flandreau State Park near New Ulm.

Boys' track team takes second at section meet; individual qualifiers advance to state meet

eileen_harvala — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:29:17 -0500

The Royals boys track and field team took second place at the section meet. Individual qualifiers compete at state meet, June 5-6, at Hamline University.

Girls track & field team named section champs; individuals advance to state, June 5-6

eileen_harvala — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:11:25 -0500

The Royals girls' track and field team won the Section 6AA team championship. Individual qualifiers will be competing in the state tournament, June 5-6, at Hamline University.

Adult Options GED graduation, Tuesday, June 2

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 May 2009 17:56:19 -0500

Adult Options in Education's General Educational Development (GED) graduation ceremony is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 2, at Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

GED graduates, their families and friends, and the public are invited to attend this inspirational event. The ceremony is free and open to the public. Refreshments are served after the ceremony.

Softball team wins section title; advances to state tournament

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 May 2009 18:04:09 -0500

The Royals 2009 girls' softball team won the Section 6AAA championship, and play in the state tournament, starting Thursday, June 4, at Caswell Park in Mankato.

HandsOn Twin Cities selects Glen Lake for service day

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 May 2009 18:06:22 -0500

Glen Lake Elementary School has been selected as one of the service sites for HandsOn Twin Cities' (HOTC) annual service day, Friday, June 12. HOTC is a volunteer resource center with a mission to bring people together to strengthen communities through meaningful volunteer action. Hopkins Public Schools' service day business partner is UnitedHealth Group (UHG). About 100 UHG employees will clean the school's classrooms and common areas, and complete outdoor landscaping projects. The team of volunteers will be at the school from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

HWJH bands earn trophies at Music in the Parks festival

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 May 2009 18:02:01 -0500

The Hopkins West Junior High 8th Grade Band and Jazz Band earned three trophies at the Music in the Parks Band Festival, Saturday, May 23. Both groups took first place in their divisions, with the 8th Grade Band receiving the highest score in all divisions to receive the Overall Trophy with a superior rating.

Hopkins High School conducts graduation, Thursday, June 4

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 May 2009 17:45:38 -0500

About 675 seniors will graduate from Hopkins High School (HHS), Thursday, June 4. A commencement ceremony will be conducted at 7:30 p.m. in the Lindbergh Center, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. The student-centered ceremony will feature music by the HHS Wind Symphony, Concert Choir, and Symphony Orchestra, and one student speaker.

Seniors qualify for state golf tournament

terri_osland — Fri, 22 May 2009 11:24:15 -0500

Senior co-captains Brittany Levens and Rose Kelly qualified for the Class AAA state golf tournament by finishing among the low five individuals at the Section VI tournament held on Tuesday, May 19, and Thursday, May 21, at Ridges at Sand Creek in Jordan.

Brittany finished in 2nd place overall, with rounds of 83-74 (157); Rose finished in 4th place overall, with rounds of 81-80 (161).

Website receives Award of Excellence

sid_voss — Thu, 21 May 2009 22:50:44 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' new website has received a Northern Lights Award of Excellence from the Minnesota Association of Government Communicators. The Award of Excellence is given to communication initiatives of the highest quality that met or exceeded their intended results, taking into account constraints on time and money, and that demonstrated creativity and wise use of resources. Hopkins' website was also one of eight entries nominated by the MAGC Board of Directors for Best of Show honors.

Hopkins Envirothon teams earn 3rd & 5th places at state

eileen_harvala — Wed, 13 May 2009 11:28:25 -0500

Hopkins High School's two Envirothon teams earned third place and fifth place at the state competition against 28 other teams, after taking after taking second and third place at the Region 4 competition.

Hopkins Ultimate team wins Western Ultimate National Championship

eileen_harvala — Tue, 19 May 2009 15:47:11 -0500

The Hopkins Hurt Varsity Ultimate team, comprised of students from Hopkins Public Schools, won the Ultimate Players Association's High School Western National Championship for 2009.

Team members

Team members include Jon Alter, Sam Bumsted, Colin Camp, Simon Gottlieb, Asa Gotlieb, Mat Grewe, Josh Klane, Jake Hoffman, Al Lim, Danny Litin, Zach Mekler, Daniel Raskin, Ethan Rasmussen, Tom Rosengren, Sam Segal, Robbie Shapiro, Jack Sussman, Evan Tarshish, and Mike Tradewell.

132 Hopkins High School students inducted into National Honor Society

eileen_harvala — Fri, 15 May 2009 15:20:26 -0500

One hundred and thirty-two students from Hopkins High School were inducted into the National Honor Society.

Ninth grade bands earn top music festival honors

eileen_harvala — Fri, 15 May 2009 15:27:39 -0500

Hopkins West Junior High's (HWJH) 9th grade bands, under the direction of Kay Hawley, earned top honors at the Music in the Park Festival in Chicago. The HWJH Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Honor Band received first place trophies. The Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble also received Overall Grand Champion Awards for their outstanding performance.

Food, Film & Forum, Friday, May 15, focuses on gay and lesbian issues

eileen_harvala — Wed, 13 May 2009 15:22:56 -0500

The Hopkins Human Rights Commission is hosting a Food, Film & Forum, starting at 6:30 p.m. Friday May 15, at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. The film and forum will focus on gay and lesbian issues. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. The film, Our House, will be shown at 7:15 p.m. It is a ground-breaking documentary that explores what it is like to grow up with gay or lesbian parents. The forum, which follows the film, will include some speakers who are families in the Hopkins School District.

Hopkins offers summer AVID program, June 15-25

eileen_harvala — Wed, 13 May 2009 10:53:11 -0500

As part of Hopkins Public Schools' summer youth enrichment offerings, students entering 8th through 11th grades can participate in a summer Advancing Via Individual Determination (AVID) college readiness program, June 15-25.

Hopkins targets additional dollars for class size issues

eileen_harvala — Mon, 11 May 2009 11:33:50 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools is targeting additional financial resources at class size issues.

Elders' Wisdom, Children's Song, Tuesday, May 12

eileen_harvala — Thu, 07 May 2009 17:17:41 -0500

Community members are invited to the Elders' Wisdom, Children's Song program, which is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, in the theater at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. This year's honorees are Weida Allen, Zhining Chin, Ph.D., Rosemary Lawrence, Ed.D., and Craid Reid, Hopkins' police chief.

Hopkins offers a variety of summer enrichment activities

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:46:00 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools' offers a variety of summer enrichment opportunities for students.

Summer enrichment classes begin the week of June 8, and include an array of opportunities such as golf, cooking, robotics, rock climbing, movie production, art, music, language camps, clay animation, rock climbing, study strategies, and much more.

Register online under Community Education, or call 952.988.4070 for more information. Fee assistance is available.

80 year old to receive his high school diploma

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:05:05 -0500

A special graduate—80-year-old Wayne Sueker of Golden Valley—will receive his high school diploma during Hopkins High School's graduation ceremony, Thursday, June 4.

Spirit Shop clearance sale week, May 26-29

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:18:01 -0500

The Spirit Shop is having a clearance sale, Tuesday, May 26, through Friday, May 29. Selected items will be 20 percent to 60 percent off. Sale hours are 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, May 29. Only personal checks or cash accepted. The Spirit Shop is located at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. The phone number is 952.988.4551.

Art exhibit features former teacher’s work

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:55:09 -0500

Paintings and ceramics by nationally renowned artist and former Hopkins teacher, Mel Jacobson, will be on display at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins, from May 14 to June 21. Jacobson's work will be exhibited in the Charles D. Redepenning gallery.

Two Hopkins seniors receive National Merit scholarships

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 May 2009 17:34:55 -0500

Two Hopkins High School seniors—Michael Haynes and Caroline Hedberg—have received $2,500 National Merit Scholarships. They are among 2,500 distinguished high school seniors chosen to receive this honor from a talent pool of 15,000 finalists in the 2009 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Summer marketing internship opportunity available: Registration deadline May 27

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:31:14 -0500

Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice and an instructor at Hopkins High School are teaming to provide a summer internship opportunity to students entering 10th grade through 12th grade who are interested in marketing. Jesse Theirl, a business education teacher at Hopkins High School, will teach the summer marketing internship. The course will be taught from June 15 through July 16. Class size will be limited to 20 students, and students must complete an application. Applications are due May 27. The course is one of Hopkins Public Schools' summer enrichment opportunities, and the cost is $29.

Business Education Department featured in statewide journal

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 May 2009 17:38:44 -0500

The Minnesota Department of Education has featured Hopkins' Business Education Department in its May Business Education Today for business educators across the state.

The article highlights the 12 courses offered at the high school; the use of technology; real business opportunities for students; business partners; a new store. The article also highlights the Business Department's three instructors—Rose Pettit, David Braaten and Jesse Theirl.

Registration for Hopkins Champions Fund Golf & Tennis Tournament being accepted now

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:44:24 -0500

Registration is open for the annual Champions Fund Golf & Tennis Tournament, scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 17, at the Oak Ridge Country Club, 700 Oak Ridge Road, Hopkins. The tournament raises scholarship funds for Hopkins Public School's activities program, which provides arts and athletic participation opportunities to students in 7th-12th grades.

Keep the Drive Club chosen as finalist in Act Out Loud competition: Support the team and vote, starting May 11

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:07:43 -0500

Students from Hopkins High School who are involved in the Keep the Drive Club are currently participating in the Act Out Loud competition with voting opening, Monday, May 11. The competition is sponsored by the Allstate Foundation, National Youth Traffic Safety Month, and the National Organization for Youth Safety.

Hot Club 2009, Saturday, May 16

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:58:22 -0500

Hot Club 2009, featuring Hopkins High School's jazz bands under the direction of William Bell, is scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday, May 16, in the Fireside Room at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. Hot Club 2009 will feature Jazz One, Jazz Too, and special appearances by student performers in small ensembles.

Tickets

Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Tickets may be purchased at the door the evening of the performance, and include table treats and one beverage.

Student school board representative receives special scholarship

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:44:39 -0500

Ethan Lang, a senior at Hopkins High School, was chosen as a recipient of a Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA) Student School Board Member Scholarship.

The $3,000 scholarship will be awarded to Lang by MSBA staff at the Hopkins School Board meeting, Thursday, May 21. Lang is one of only two students in the state to receive the award.

Hopkins Education Foundation awards large grants

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:25:19 -0500

The Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) awarded $66,500 for three large grants to enrich students' learning experiences in the Hopkins School District. The grants include:

Document cameras at L.H. Tanglen Elementary School

Document cameras are part of the 21st century classroom initiative. They engage students with active learning and cut down on prep time for teachers. A document camera projects images of whatever is placed under its lens-whether it's a piece of paper or a 3-D object, opening up informative discussions in the classroom.

Junior high Knowledge Master team earns top honors

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:48:27 -0500

The spring 2009 Knowledge Master team from Hopkins West Junior High placed first in the state and second internationally in the Knowledge Master Open. Team members answered 196 out of 200 points correctly to earn those honors.

Students participate in 5th Congressional District Art Show

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:58:31 -0500

Two students from Hopkins High School—Ananias Brown and Blake Smedstad—currently have their art work on display at the Perpich Center for the Arts as part of the 5th Congressional District Art Show. A reception and the announcement of award honorees is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, May 11, at the Perpich Center.

Seniors participate in Alumni Challenge

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:20:18 -0500

Seniors at Hopkins High School are participating in the Alumni Challenge, pledging donations to the school district. This is the fourth year of the Alumni Challenge, which was started in 2006 by Betsy Scheurer, a Hopkins graduate and member of the Hopkins School Board. Each year, the senior class tries to obtain more pledges than the year before. This year's goal is 70 percent participation. To date, Hopkins High School's graduates have pledged more than $25,000. Donations go to grants for programs and scholarships.

German students win an ‘Oscar’ for public service video

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:40:33 -0500

Students involved in the German VI College in the Schools class at Hopkins High School won an "Oscar" for their public service video. Their video was honored for technical quality, best use of German, and creativity. A total of 30 videos from schools across the state were entered in the competition.

2009 blankets still available

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:22:26 -0500

Blankets, silkscreened with the Hopkins High School seal and the class of 2009, are still available for purchase. The full size 54" X 84" Jersey blankets are $30, and available in the Hopkins High School Spirit Shop or Corner Store. Purchases support the senior party.

Students raise awareness about and funds for teen homelessness

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:31:38 -0500

Forty students from Hopkins North Junior and Hopkins West Junior High raised more than $1,300 to help end teen homelessness. In addition to raising money, the students collected food donations for the Intercongregation Communities Association (ICA) food shelf, heard a presentation from Teens Alone, ate a homeless meal supplied by the ICA Food Shelf, and role-played the part of a shelter owner with only one bed left and many people in need. Partners in this project included the Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hopkins Police Department, ICA Food Shelf, and Teens Alone.

Hopkins senior performs in MacPhail spring honors recital, Friday, May 8

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:54:22 -0500

Jordan Werre, a Hopkins High School senior and MacPhail Center for Music student, has been selected to perform in MacPhail's Spring Honors Recital at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 8, in MacPhail's Antonello Hall. Werre will perform the piece "Piano Variations" by Aaron Copland.

Werre, who studies piano with Gary Sipes at MacPhail, said that he felt flattered to be chosen for such an honor after the competing against many other students in challenging auditions.

Former athletic director inducted into Hall of Fame

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 09:36:19 -0500

Ron Sellnow, a long-time math and science teacher, coach, and athletic director for Hopkins Public Schools, has been inducted into the Minnesota State High School League's Hall of Fame.

Although Sellnow has been retired for about 10 years, he has a 36-year history of service to the Hopkins School District. He was a teacher for more than 24 years, and coached hockey, and boys' and girls' soccer. Many of his teams qualified for state tournaments and won state championships. He was named the district's athletic director in 1988, serving in that position for 12 years.

French students earn top ratings in statewide competition

eileen_harvala — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:36:07 -0500

French VI College in the Schools students from Hopkins High School received ratings of excellent or très bien—the two highest possible ratings—at the Minnesota French competition. They performed scenes from French plays, read French poetry, and performed French songs.

Their accomplishments included:

Advanced Poetry

Clayton Doyle (excellent): "Voeu" by Henri de Régnier

Chess team wins Northwestern Suburbs Regional Team Award

eileen_harvala — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 10:25:04 -0500

The Meadowbrook Elementary School chess team won the Northwestern Suburbs Regional Team Award at the School Chess Association statewide championships.

Of the 64 teams, representing 215 competitors, in the primary (K-3) section, Meadowbrook's five chess team members came in 17th place. Team members include 2nd graders Dean Andraschko, Jack Holzersmith, Vaughn Holzersmith, Felix Johnson, and Lauren Kolodge.

High school students collect pop can tabs for Ronald McDonald House

eileen_harvala — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 10:51:48 -0500

Hopkins High School students are collecting pop can tabs as a fund-raising for Ronald McDonald House. The fund-raiser begins the week of April 27. Community residents can participate by dropping off pop can tabs at collection bins that will be located near the high school reception area and near the entrance of the Lindbergh Center.

GED opens doors to the future for Family Resource Center executive director

eileen_harvala — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 10:54:33 -0500

As the executive director of the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center, Judy Elling sits beneath her collection of framed degrees. No one would ever guess Elling is a high school drop out—unless they ask.

"I'll tell you where I've been and I'll tell you where I'm going," said Elling, who has been serving the area's low-income families since beginning work at the Family Resource Center last spring.

8th grader makes hole-in-one

eileen_harvala — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 10:30:32 -0500

Jonathan Werner, an 8th grader at Hopkins North Junior High, an avid golfer, and a member of Hopkins' junior varsity golf team, made a hole-in-one on the 7th hole at the Braemar Golf Course, during a match against Edina's junior varsity team.

Filings open August 25 for November school board elections

eileen_harvala — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:45:51 -0500

On Tuesday, November 3, the Hopkins School District will conduct an election to fill three four-year director positions on the Hopkins School Board.

School Board directors currently holding those positions are Stan Berris, Sandy Forster, and Betsy Scheurer.

Filing period

The filing period for interested candidates begins Tuesday, Aug. 25, and closes at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8. The last day to withdraw is 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10.

Former Hopkins debater featured on MPR

eileen_harvala — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 15:53:38 -0500

Nadine Strossen, a Hopkins graduate, 18-year president of the American Civil Liberties Union, and professor of law at New York University, was recently interviewed on Minnesota Public Radio. During that interview she talked about her experiences at Hopkins, particularly with the debate team. Strossen was on two state championship debate teams in the late 1960s. She talked about how that experience provided her with skills that have been, and continue to be, integral to her success. "It literally shaped everything that has been important to me as an advocate and as a teacher . .

HHS Concert Choir chosen for Choral Arts Finale

sid_voss — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 13:47:23 -0600

The Hopkins High School Concert Choir is one of five choirs in the state selected to participate in the Choral Arts Finale in Orchestra Hall. The Minnesota Choral Directors Association in conjunction with Concordia University sponsors the Choral Arts Finale. The choir was chosen for this high honor based on an audition process earlier this school year. "The students will sing under the direction of Dr. Eph Ehly. Each choir will perform a 15-minute set of music individually at the concert, and then combine with the four other selected choirs on two selections conducted by Dr. Ehly.

Community dance, Friday, May 1

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:31:02 -0500

Residents are invited to join Dick Macko and his Big Band Sound for a community dance, which will be conducted from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, May 1, at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. A free dance lesson will be held at 6:15 p.m. with dance instructor Jay Dudding. Dick Macko's band plays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Light refreshments are included in the ticket price of $10. Due to the popularity of these sold-out dances, only prepaid registrations are being accepted. No tickets will be sold at the door.

Regalia yearbook pages featured in Jostens 2009 design book

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:24:00 -0500

The Regalia, Hopkins High School's yearbook, has again been recognized for excellence and featured in the 2009 Gotcha Covered Look Book. Published annually by yearbook leader Jostens, the Look Book features yearbook spreads and covers from across the country. The book is a popular reference for yearbook advisers and staff members seeking creative design and coverage ideas, trends and inspiration.

Kindergartners visit carpentry class

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:08:43 -0500

A group of kindergartners received a practical lesson in carpentry, construction, engineering and math from Hopkins High School students. The older students who are enrolled in the Carpentry and Building Construction will Applied Math course are building a small cabin. They talked to the kindergartners about different components of their project including roof, electrical, floors, soffits, framing, etc. The kindergartners also visited the shop and saw how power tools are used, and viewed a slide presentation that included step-by-step pictures of the finished project.

Parents invited to view binge drinking documentary

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:38:51 -0500

Parents with older teenagers and college students are invited to view Haze, a video documentary on binge drinking. Haze looks at the alcohol culture of today's colleges, and addresses the dangers, the contributing factors and the seriousness of the issue. Older teenagers are invited to attend as well with an adult.

Date, times and locations for the film viewing are:

Engineering and technology workshop offered to 8th-grade girls

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:49:54 -0500

Girls in 8th grade are invited to participate in a Girls Engineering their future in Technology (GET), workshop, Saturday, April 25. The workshop runs from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and includes a series of sessions at Hennepin Technical College and North Hennepin Community College.

Workshop session choices include:

Parents can apply for free or reduced-priced lunch at any time

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:09:11 -0500

Parents of Hopkins Public Schools may apply for free or reduced-priced lunch at any time during the school year. Applications are available at all district school offices and cafeterias, and the Food & Nutrition Services office, which is located in the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. The application is also available on the Food Service-Royal Cuisine web page. For more information, call Hopkins Public Schools Food & Nutrition Services at 952.988.5313.

Robotics team earns special award at regional competition

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:36:05 -0500

The Technocrats, Hopkins High School's robotics team, won the XEROX Creativity Award for Engineering and Design at the Midwest North Star Regional Competition. The winning design allowed for ease of access to control components, and enabled the robot to score regardless of its position on the playing field.

The Technocrats constructed its robot for this year's For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) competition with assistance from ev3, which gave the team $10,000 toward the competition and building materials for the robot.

Local magazine features staff member and his interest in storm chasing

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:12:51 -0500

John Wetter, Hopkins Public Schools' technology support administrator, was recently featured in Metro Magazine Maple Grove edition. The article highlights Wetter's interest in meteorology and his role as a storm chaser. In the spring and summer, his car often includes an arsenal of cameras and computers as he heads for the sites of severe storms or tornadoes. He uploads his photos and videos to his website. Wetter also coordinates operations for the Twin Cities-based Upper Midwest office of Skywarn,, a volunteer weather-tracking organization.

Student dancers feel the beat in Hopkins schools

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:43:38 -0500

About 40 students are involved in unique dance programs at Hopkins schools. The dancers include 16 students in the ASEAP Steppers group, nine students in the Danceline Group at Alice Smith Elementary School, and 15 students in the junior high steppers group.

Debate team finishes another successful season

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:39:43 -0500

Hopkins' debate team is finishing another successful season. The debaters have had success at a number of tournaments in Minnesota and at tournaments across the country, including major national circuit tournaments in Texas, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, California and Minnesota. The team's collective successes puts it among the top 20 to 25 teams in the nation.

Students to raise awareness about and funds for teen homelessness

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:23:56 -0500

Students from Hopkins North Junior High (HNJH) and Hopkins West Junior High (HWJH) will be raising funds for and awareness about teen homelessness, Friday, April 24.

About the project

Students will be in front of the Hopkins Center for Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. They will be distributing information about teen homelessness, and collecting donations of food and cash. The food donations will go to the Intercongregation Communities Association (ICA) food shelf, and the financial donations will go to Teens Alone.

Grant supports literature and film project at Delta Place

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:43:56 -0500

Kjersti Gilthvedt, a language arts/special education teacher in Delta Place (a care and treatment facility), received a $ 3,000 grant from Education Minnesota Foundation for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. The grant money will be used for a program library project. The focus of the project, which is a collaboration between the Delta Place teaching and therapy staff, encompasses using literature and film to encourage thematic analysis and the study of life experiences to help students realize self awareness and their personal treatment goals.

Family Resource Center partners with Nordic Ware for fund-raiser

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:24:39 -0500

Between now and May 31, residents can participate in a fund-raiser for the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center. St. Louis Park-based Nordic Ware will donate 40 percent of all kitchenware sales during this time period to the Family Resource Center. To participate, go to Nordic Ware's website, and click on the fund-raising tab. During checkout, use the fund-raising code MNN0409 before entering your credit card number. Phone orders can be made by calling 1.877.466.7342. For additional information, please contact the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center at 952.988.5350.

Royce White selected as Minnesota's Mr. Basketball

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:14:11 -0500

Royce White, a senior forward on Hopkins High School's state champion boys' basketball team, has been named Minnesota's Mr. Basketball. Royce is described as a tireless worker with shut-down skills on defense, a strong and talented player with an ability to score from anyplace on the court, and a team leader committed to doing whatever he could to make his team better. He led the undefeated Royals in scoring about 16 points per game. He will be playing for the University of Minnesota Gophers next season.

The Winter's Tale takes the stage, May 7-10

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:52:04 -0500

Coming to the stage, May 7-10, is William Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale—a landmark studio production by Hopkins High School's Royal Productions theater troupe.

Student groups partner with local businesses to take action to reduce youth alcohol use

eileen_harvala — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:32:54 -0500

As part of their work with the Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice, students from Hopkins High School, Hopkins North Junior High and Hopkins West Junior High are teaming up to stop under-aged drinking this prom season. Students from the schools' chemical awareness programs, PACT (Positive Alternative Choices for Teens) at the high school and Students Promoting Positive Actions (SPPA) at the junior highs, will put stickers on alcoholic beverages at liquor stores in Hopkins and Minnetonka. The stickers read: "Thank you for not giving me to an under-aged drinker.

Hopkins School Board Listening Session, Tuesday, April 21

eileen_harvala — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:35:27 -0500

The Hopkins School Board will conduct its second Listening Session from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, in Room 207B at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins.

The Listening Session is an opportunity for community members to share their issues, concerns, and ideas with three School Board members and the superintendent. The School Board representatives will listen to citizens and ask clarifying questions. Superintendent John Schultz will be available to assist and respond to issues being presented.

Community Health & Fitness Expo, Sunday, April 19

eileen_harvala — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:41:52 -0500

Community members of all ages are invited to the free Community Health and Fitness Expo, which is scheduled for 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 19, at the Lindbergh Center, 2700 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. The community Health and Fitness Expo is sponsored by Hopkins Public Schools and Hopkins Minnetonka Recreation Services.

Track & Field fund-raiser, Tuesday, April 21

eileen_harvala — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:18:01 -0500

The Hopkins Cross Country and Track & Field Booster Club is hosting a fund-raiser from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, at Davanni's, 15200 W. Highway 7, Minnetonka. Davanni's will donate to the Booster Club an amount equal to 20 percent of the total orders taken that evening. Diners will be required to present a coupon upon ordering; coupons are available at the high school and junior high buildings. Go to the Booster Club's website to print additional coupons.

Gatewood sculptors to be featured in Minnesota Sculptor Society newsletter

eileen_harvala — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:57:09 -0500

Four 6th graders from Gatewood Elementary School—Christopher Dinh, Shane McCarty, Brenden Oakes, and Alexander Wallner—will have their wire sculptures featured in the Society of Minnesota Sculptors quarterly newsletter. Their art work was on display at the Hopkins Center for the Arts during the March student art show, and was noticed by Richard Poey, a local sculptor, and vice president of the Society of Minnesota Sculptors. Pictures of the students' sculptures will be featured in the Society's newsletter, Highlights & Shadows.

Eight new members to be inducted in Hopkins Athletic Hall of Fame

eileen_harvala — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:01:32 -0500

Eight new members will be inducted into the Hopkins Athletic Hall of Fame, Sunday, April 19. The induction ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m. in the auditorium at the Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. The ceremony and reception is open to the public. Admission is free.

2009 Hall of Fame inductees

The 2009 inductees include:

Hopkins to host Google Workshop for Educators

eileen_harvala — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:48:44 -0500

Due to Hopkins Public Schools' focus on integrating technology into the classroom to enhance learning and instruction, the school district will be the host site for a Google Workshop for Educators in August.

Family and consumer sciences teacher receives statewide honor

eileen_harvala — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:06:03 -0500

Michele Saylor, a family and consumer sciences (FACS) teacher at Hopkins North Junior High and Hopkins West Junior High, has been selected as one of 100 people who have had a impact on the profession and the Minnesota Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (MAFCS). She will be honored, Friday, April 3, at MAFCS state conference. MAFCS is a scientific and educational association of family and consumer sciences professionals, and is affiliated with the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, which is celebrating its centennial this year.

Boys’ basketball player named athlete of the week

eileen_harvala — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:54:52 -0500

Royce White, a senior forward on Hopkins' state championship boys' basketball team, has been named the Hardware Hank "Nuts & Bolts" athlete of the week. Royce scored 20 points and had 7 rebounds in Hopkins' Class AAAA win over Osseo in the recent state high school basketball tournament. He plans on attending the University of Minnesota next fall. The "Nuts & Bolts" athlete of the week is sponsored by Hardware Hank and Minnesota Sports Online.

Basketball team wins Class AAAA state championship

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:48:27 -0500

Congratulations to the Hopkins boys' basketball team for winning the Class AAAA state championship, Saturday, March 28.

They defeated Osseo High School, 69-59, for the championship. The Royals ended their season with a perfect, 31-0 record.

The Royals have captured four state championships since 2002.

Empty Bowls raises $58,823 for local food shelves

eileen_harvala — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 07:55:15 -0500

Empty Bowls raised $58,823 for the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center, and the Intercongregation Communities Association. The amount included $44,936 raised through the Challenge to the Community Fund sponsored by SUPERVALU and Choices for Children, and 135 business, civic, and school district leaders.

The event included:

Ninth grade students tackle the issue of homelessness

eileen_harvala — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:40:49 -0500

Ninth grade students involved in the Autonomous Learners Model (ALM) at Hopkins West Junior High (HWJH) recently tackled the issue of homelessness as part of their focused study of empathy. ALM is the Challenge program for gifted and talented students at HWJH.

Hopkins Education Foundation has an immediate need for a graphic design volunteer

eileen_harvala — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:49:51 -0500

The Hopkins Education Foundation has an immediate need for a graphic design volunteer, and is also looking for volunteers for photography, webmaster, writing, organizing events, mailings, and general office help. Please contact Valeng Cha at 952.988.4097.

Robins earn top seed in state adapted floor hockey tournament

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:55:02 -0500

The Robins adapted floor hockey team won the state championship in the Minnesota State High School League State Adapted Floor Hockey Tournament by defeating Dakota United, 8-2, Friday, March 20. To earn the #1 seed in the tournament, the Robins won the Metro Association for Adapted Athletics North Conference Championship with a perfect 12-0 record. Hopkins High School students on the team are Steven Halsey and Zach Thuleen.

Summer enrichment catalog arrives in homes soon

eileen_harvala — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:08:23 -0500

The summer enrichment catalog will arrive in homes soon. It includes an array of opportunities, including golf, cooking, robotics, rock climbing, movie production, art, music, language camps, clay animation, rock climbing, study strategies, and more. Register online on the Hopkins Community Education website, or call 952.988.4070 for more information. Fee assistance is available. Summer enrichment classes begin the week of June 8.

Not too late to pass GED tests in time for graduation

eileen_harvala — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 19:36:00 -0500

It's not too late for adults to pass their general educational development (GED) tests and participate in June's graduation ceremony. Adult Options in Education's GED graduation ceremony is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 2, at Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

Courses offerings ensure that students meet math standards

eileen_harvala — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:02:23 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools is changing its math course offerings in order to ensure that its students meet the Minnesota Academic Standards for mathematics. Those standards—adopted in September 2008—mandate that current sixth graders complete Algebra 1 in 8th grade, and take three years of required mathematics in high school beyond Algebra 1.

The changes to junior high math classes, which begin next year for 7th grade students, are noted in the table below. The changes provide all students with the high rigor necessary to meet the standards.

Lacrosse pancake fund-raiser, Saturday, March 28

eileen_harvala — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:07:07 -0500

A Hopkins lacrosse pancake breakfast is planned for 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 28, at the Hopkins High School cafeteria, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. The event is hosted by the Boys and Girls High School Lacrosse Booster Club, and is an opportunity to meet the coaches and players. There will be a raffle for tickets to Minnesota Swarm games. Tickets are $5, and may be purchased at Hopkins High School from the team captains, or at the door. All proceeds will go toward helping to fund additional coaching staff and transportation for added teams.

College Fair draws interest of Hopkins students

eileen_harvala — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:21:31 -0500

All of Hopkins High School's (HHS) students and 9th graders from Hopkins North Junior High had an opportunity to meet with 52 college/university representatives at a College Fair at the high school, March 17.

The College Fair was part of HHS College Week. Students were able to ask questions about college entrance requirements, costs and financial aid, and major programs and extra-curricular opportunities. HHS counselors were also available to answer students' questions and help them with the Get Connected Portfolio system.

To Everything There is a Season

eileen_harvala — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:32:00 -0500

Fall to winter . . . winter to spring . . . spring to summer . . . summer to the back-to-school season. We are starting to notice more changes as we start the transition to spring—robins, rain, and daylight savings. Our hopes for sunshine and warmer weather are starting to come to fruition as the days get longer and the sun warms the interior of our cars.

Softball fund-raiser, Sunday, April 19

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:37:45 -0500

The third annual Hopkins Softball Royale will be held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 19, at the Park Tavern, 3401 Louisiana Ave. S., St. Louis Park. The event is hosted by the Hopkins High School Softball Booster Club. There will be bowling, a pizza bar, prize and cash drawings, and a silent auction. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the door. All proceeds will go toward field improvements at Hopkins High School's softball fields. Additional information is available at the Hopkins Royals website.

Becky Kortum earns local and state honors as a scholar athlete

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:57:46 -0500

Rebecca "Becky" Kortum, a forward on Hopkins girls' hockey team, has earned local, regional, and statewide honors for her athletic abilities, academic achievement, community and extra curricular activities, and leadership. She recently was named the 2009 Athena winner from Hopkins High School, and named the 2009 Minnesota Let's Play Hockey Ms. Hockey award winner.

High school and Minnetonka police plan drunken driving assembly

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:25:56 -0500

Hopkins High School in conjunction with the Minnetonka Police Department is putting on a drunken driving presentation for students, Monday, April 27. There will be an assembly for students. Crashed cars and rollover simulators will be located near the main entrance of the school. Students will have the opportunity to use vision goggles that mimic what it is like to be drunk, to ask questions of police officers, and to sign pledges saying that they will not drive drunk or ride with a drunken driver.

Four teams from Hopkins advance to state Destination ImagiNation tournament

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:40:27 -0500

Four teams from Hopkins Public Schools have advanced to the state Destination ImagiNation tournament, which will be conducted Saturday, April 18, in Chaska.

Hopkins' teams

The teams include:

Athletes from Hopkins compete nationally

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:00:54 -0500

Hopkins High School has two athletes participating in national competitions—a snowboarder and an alpine skier.

AJ Hartzler

Alexander "AJ" Hartzler, a junior at Hopkins High School, will be competing in two events-boardercross and slopestyle-at the snowboarding nationals at Copper Mountain in Colorado over spring break, April 6-10. AJ is a member of the G team, and won the Twin Cities ALT rail jam this year.

Hopkins senior accepted into prestigious acting program

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:04:50 -0500

Ross Destiche has been accepted into the prestigious University of Minnesota/Guthrie Theater BFA (bachelor of fine arts) Acting Program. To be accepted into this program, Ross had to participate in a rigorous application and multi-audition process, and attend a multi-day workshop. More than 1,000 students from across the country annually apply for the program, and only 20 students are selected to participate.

Kyle Sonnen Aviation Scholarship Benefit, Monday, April 13

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:34:26 -0500

Blue Skies & Dragonflies—Kyle Sonnen Aviation Scholarship Benefit—is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 13, at Bet Shalom Congregation, 13613 Orchard Road, Minnetonka. Kyle was a 2005 graduate of Hopkins High School. He died in a car accident in February 2008. The benefit includes a silent auction from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The concert, from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., will feature Peppino D'agostino, Becky Schlegel and Brian Fessler, and Ivan Rafowitz and his trio Realtime. Tickets are $25 for adults, and $20 for children 18 and under.

Girls’ hockey coach named Minnesota AA Hockey Coach of the Year

eileen_harvala — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 10:45:43 -0500

Vincent Paolucci, Hopkins girls' hockey coach, has been named Minnesota Girls High School AA Hockey Coach of the Year. Paolucci lead his team to a second place finish in the state girls hockey tournament. He is physical education teacher at Hopkins High School.

NJH Players present 'Annie'

eileen_harvala — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:50:51 -0600

Community members are invited to the NJH Players' presentation of Annie. The performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, March 19, through Saturday, March 21, at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins.

Tickets

Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students, and will be available at the door.

Registration for Kids & Company begins March 16-20

eileen_harvala — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:54:24 -0500

Registration for Kids & Company for the summer of 2009 and the 2009-10 school year, begins the week of March 16 through March 20. Kids & Company is Hopkins Public Schools' nationally accredited, extended-day, child care program for children in kindergarten through 6th grade. Summer program dates are June 11 through Aug. 14. The school program begins Monday, Aug. 31.

Registration available at the schools

Parents can register at their child's elementary school. The registration schedule is from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.:

Empty Bowls fund-raiser set for March 24

eileen_harvala — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:22:10 -0500

Community members of all ages are invited to the annual Empty Bowls fund-raiser, which is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

The funds raised will support community food shelves-the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center, and the Intercongregation Communities Association. The fund-raising goal for this year's Empty Bowls is $50,000. This year's SUPERVALU Challenge to the Community is to raise $30,000 in sponsorships before the day of the event.

Attendees are invited to:

The Jump to Junior High, Tuesday, March 17 & 31, & April 14

eileen_harvala — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:59:04 -0500

Kathy Rezac, parent educator and 6th grade teacher at L.H. Tanglen Elementary School, will host a series of workshops, The Jump to Junior High, for parents of 6th graders who are interested in helping their children made a smooth transition to junior high. The workshops are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, March 31, and April 14. The workshops will provide parents with effective tips and strategies for ensuring that their children have great experiences in junior high. Parents are encouraged to attend all three sessions.

Courses, instructors, and counselor foster a student's passion for social justice

eileen_harvala — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 13:59:30 -0500

In the early 1900s, historian and author Jacques Barzun wrote, "In teaching you cannot see the fruit of a day's work. It is invisible and remains so, maybe for 20 years." But sometimes teachers don't have to wait 20 years to see the impact that they have made on their students.

Cable broadcast times set for Spark presentation

eileen_harvala — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 15:07:47 -0500

The Spark presentation, looking at the impact of exercise on brain function and learning, by author John Ratey, M.D. will be broadcast on Comcast Channel 14, at

9 p.m. Friday, March 20;
6 p.m. Sunday, March 22;
5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 24; and
9 p.m. Friday, March 27.

Student-run store helps students gain hands-on business experience

eileen_harvala — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:39:58 -0500

The Royal Corner, a new student-based enterprise, was opened by business students at Hopkins High School, providing them with hands-on practical experiences in planning, implementing, and running a store.

From Chaos to Cool, Calm Kids, Tuesday, March 24

eileen_harvala — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 15:11:49 -0500

From Chaos to Cool, Calm Kids, a workshop for parents of children ages 8 to 14, will be conducted from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. This workshop will help parents understand their child's learning style, and develop empowering strategies and tools to improve motivation, time management and self reliance with less frustration for all involved. The cost is $10 per person or $15 per household. To register, please call Hopkins Community Education at 952.988.4070.

Music teacher’s composition chosen for Essential Choral—an American Music Forum

eileen_harvala — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:17:16 -0500

Timothy Berry, an elementary classroom music teacher at Meadowbrook Elementary School, has had one of his choral pieces, "Unfolding Amen," selected for Essential Choral-an American Music Forum for emerging composers. Berry, along with six other composers, was chosen for this honor from a field of 82 composers from across the country. Berry will receive mentoring sessions with composer Steven Sametz and conductor Philip Brunelle. His music will be performed by a 32-voice professional chamber choir.

Cargill grant enables Hopkins to implement Engineering in Elementary

eileen_harvala — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:09:35 -0600

The Cargill Foundation is donating nearly $2.5 million over four years to the Science Museum of Minnesota to facilitate the introduction of the Engineering is Elementary (EiE) curriculum in all of Hopkins' and Minneapolis' elementary schools. Cargill Foundation announced the award of this grant, Thursday, March 5.

About the grants

The Cargill Foundation grant is designed to help promote a new generation of American scientists and engineers.

College Fair to feature 40+ colleges and universities

eileen_harvala — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:26:48 -0600

A College Fair at Hopkins High School, Tuesday, March 17, will feature representatives from more than 40 colleges and universities. The fair will be conducted from 1:06 p.m. to 2:35 p.m. in the gym at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive.

Students will be systematically dismissed during their 4th block class. Specific information will be forthcoming.

Glen Lake raises funds for American Heart Association

eileen_harvala — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:59:27 -0600

Glen Lake Elementary conducted its third annual Jump Rope for Heart Event during physical education classes, raising more than $2,787 for the American Heart Association. The school's goal was to raise $2,000. One second grader—John James "JJ" Martin—raised $380, helping the school to exceed its goal. Before the jumping event, students participated in fitness stations and practiced jumping. Students jumped for 30 minutes, and many made more than 2,000 jumps.

Fourteen Hopkins youth receive Caring Youth Recognition

eileen_harvala — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:38:11 -0600

Fourteen youth from Hopkins Public Schools will be honored at the Caring Youth Recognition event, Thursday, March 12.

Minnetonka-Hopkins Community Parent Fair, Saturday, March 7

eileen_harvala — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 14:01:03 -0600

The Minnetonka-Hopkins Community Parent Fair, a free community event for all caring adults who parent or work with children, will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 7, at Minnetonka High School, 18301 Highway 7 in Minnetonka.

Co-sponsored by Hopkins and Minnetonka Public Schools' Community Education departments, the event will feature a variety of workshop sessions designed to be helpful to parents of children ages birth through teen.

Hopkins hockey player chosen as Ms. Hockey

eileen_harvala — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 13:44:24 -0600

Rebecca "Becky" Kortum has been selected as the 2009 Minnesota Let's Play Hockey Ms. Hockey award winner. Becky is a forward on the Hopkins girls' hockey team, who just finished in second place at the state girls hockey tournament. Becky was honored at the Ms. Hockey awards banquet, Sunday, March 1.

Girls hockey team advances in state tournament

eileen_harvala — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:48:30 -0600

Congratulations to the Hopkins Royals girls' hockey team for their second place finish in the state girls' hockey tournament.

Superintendent presents "State of the School District," March 9

eileen_harvala — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:34:42 -0600

Superintendent John Schultz, Ph.D., will present his State of the School District address from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday, March 9, in Room 215 at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. Parents and community members are invited to attend.

Superintendent Schultz will talk about the vision and goals for Hopkins Public Schools, and highlight areas of excellence and success, and programs that are designed to prepare students for living and working in the 21st century.

Three Hopkins gymnasts to compete in state meet

eileen_harvala — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 17:11:43 -0600

Seniors Logan Dick and Lillian "Lilli" Torrison, and sophomore Therese "Tess" L'Heureux finished at the top of Section 6AA gymnastics individually, and qualified to compete in the state gymnastics meet, Friday, Feb. 27. At the Section 6AA finals, Logan won floor, Tess won beam, and Lilli finished 2nd on floor, 3rd on bars, 4th on beam and 4th all-around. They will represent Hopkins and Section 6AA at the state gymnastics meet, which is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at the University of Minnesota Women's Sports Pavilion.

Kindergarten Roundups acquaint parents and children with teachers and classrooms

eileen_harvala — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 19:07:08 -0600

All kindergarten families are encouraged to attend their school's Kindergarten Roundup. At Kindergarten Roundup, children will be involved in a number of kindergarten activities designed to acquaint them with teachers and classrooms. Parents will receive important information from the principal, school nurse, transportation supervisor, and Kids & Company staff.

District 270 Dances concert, Thursday, March 12

eileen_harvala — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 17:38:02 -0600

Students from through the Hopkins School District will present a dance concert—270 Dances—from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 12, in the auditorium at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. This annual showcase of curricular and extracurricular dance will feature students from Alice Smith Elementary, Glen Lake Elementary, Meadowbrook Elementary, L.H. Tanglen Elementary, Hopkins West Junior High, and Hopkins High School. The show is open to the public and is free.

Tax preparation assistance available

eileen_harvala — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 19:31:50 -0600

The Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center is offering free e-file tax preparation assistance to residents who meet the following income eligibility requirements: singles earning less than $30,000 annually; families earning less than $45,000 annually; and self-employed people earning less than $50,000 annually.

When assistance is available

Assistance will be provided on a first come, first serve basis, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, and 8:30 a.m. Saturday, through Tuesday, April 14.

Schools and Current Economics

eileen_harvala — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 19:43:57 -0600

One way or another, we have each felt the impact of the current economic crisis. Much of the anxiety stems from the uncertainty that accompanies these troubling times. Although we hear from time-to-time that some sectors of society are doing well, we continue to see people from every walk of life who have had to endure the loss of their home, their job, increased health-care costs, all while continuing to face the challenges that go with raising a family and/or caring for others. It is a time when we need to acknowledge the trying times members in our community face . . .

Hopkins football coach chosen as head coach for the Metro All-Star Football Team

eileen_harvala — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:22:24 -0600

John DenHartog, Hopkins' football coach and a special education teacher at Hopkins High School, has been selected to be head coach of the Metro All-Star Football Team in the 36th annual Minnesota High School All-Star football game between schools from the metro area and schools from outstate Minnesota. The game will be played June 27 at St. Cloud State. DenHartog was selected for this honor by his peers in the Minnesota High School Football Association.

Fencing with Sword Play begins March 2

eileen_harvala — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:17:41 -0600

Fencing with Sword Play, a Community Education class for adults/parents and young people over the age of 8, begins March 2. Classes will be held through April 13, at Hopkins West Junior High 3830 Baker Road, Minnetonka. The cost is $79, and adults/parents with their child need to register separately. Masks, jackets, gloves, and swords will be provided. Participants should dress comfortably for freedom of movement such as sweat pants and running shoes.

Hopkins High School celebrates Winter Week

eileen_harvala — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:41:54 -0600

Hopkins High School will celebrate Winter Week, March 2 through March 6. Each day will have a different spirit theme. On Tuesday, March 3, there is a Hopkins vs. Minnetonka boys' basketball game at Minnetonka. One of the highlights for the week is the Mr. Hopkins Pageant, scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, in the Little Theater at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Dr., Hopkins. Mr. Hopkins is for seniors, and the pageant includes talent, question & answer, and runway competitions. The week culminates with the last home boys' basketball game—Hopkins vs.

Low cost dental services available at Family Resource Center

eileen_harvala — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:12:53 -0600

Children's Dental Services (CDS) is providing low cost dental exams and more at the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center (HMFRC), Thursday, March 26, and Wednesday, April 8.

Junior high students to conduct fund-raiser for upcoming orchestra trip

eileen_harvala — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:44:53 -0600

Students from Hopkins North and Hopkins West junior highs will be bagging groceries for tips from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Cub Foods located at the intersection of Highway 101 and Highway 7 in Minnetonka. The money raised will help defray costs of the schools' upcoming orchestra trip to Chicago.

Student art work featured at Hopkins Center for the Arts

eileen_harvala — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:44:49 -0600

As part of National Youth Art Month in March, an exhibit of student art work from all schools in the Hopkins School District will be on display at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, from February 26 through March 29.

When to see the exhibit

The Hopkins Center for the Arts is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Students and staff reach out to others

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 16:38:03 -0600

Hopkins students and staff members constantly reach out to others in need. Recently, some Hopkins students collected change for fund-raiser, while other students and staff participate in a successful blood drive.

Change for Kids

Students in L.H. Tanglen Elementary School's Kids & Company recently participated in KS95's fund-raiser, Change for Kids. They raised $380.25 for the Gillette Children's Hospital and Children's Cancer Research Fund.

High School robotics team flourishes with help from technology firm

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 09:38:30 -0600

Technocrats, a robotics team at Hopkins High School, is flourishing with assistance from a ev3—a Plymouth-based medical technology company—and two teachers.

The Technocrats constructed its robot for this year's For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) competition with assistance from ev3, which gave the team $10,000 toward the competition and building materials for the robot.

High School musical earns theater honors

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 15:15:29 -0600

Hopkins High School's award-winning theater program, Royal Productions, has once again earned honors in the SpotLight Musical Theatre Program. Mark Hauck is Hopkins' theater director.

The SpotLight Musical Theatre Program was created by the Hennepin Theatre District to honor students who participate and excel in musical theater. SpotLight celebrates high school musical theater productions and recognizes performances in a variety of categories. This year, five Hopkins students were recognized for their outstanding performances in "A Wonderful Life."

Envirothon Team focuses on environmental competitions

eileen_harvala — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 16:01:42 -0600

The Envirothon Team at Hopkins High School is a student group that competes in regional and state competition on topics associated with the environment. Students form teams of five and take tests on aquatics, wildlife, forestry, soils, and biodiversity. Tests are focused on real-world applications of environmental science knowledge, particularly on how natural resource managers use this information for their jobs and daily decision-making.

Please take the Business Education & Marketing survey

eileen_harvala — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 19:12:56 -0600

Dear parents: You are invited to participate in the Business & Marketing Education survey. The survey is a part of Hopkins' continuing effort to improve curriculum and elective course offerings in our school district. Please click here to take the survey.

Author of "Our Community Reads" selection to visit

donna_adams — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 13:04:59 -0600

"Our Community Reads" is an opportunity in Hopkins Public Schools for our entire community to read and discuss the same book. The 2009 book selection is Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, by John R. Ratey, M.D.

The book examines the chemical changes in the brain that show the far-reaching power of regular exercise in improving learning and the emotional and physical well-being of students as well as adults.

Two opportunities to hear Dr. Ratey present his ideas in person are scheduled for February:

HHS Deeply Royal to host 'Step It Up' on Feb. 18

terri_osland — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:20:05 -0600

In celebration of Black History Month, Deeply Royal, a dance club at Hopkins High School, is hosting “Step It Up," featuring hip hop and step teams, spoken word, and music from around the metro area at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18, in the HHS Auditorium. DJ B-Right from B96 radio will be another special guest.

Tickets are $5 and will be for sale at the door beginning at 6:30 p.m. Hopkins High School is located at 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka.

Boys ski teams both take second place at state meets

eileen_harvala — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 19:23:33 -0600

Alpine Ski Team

Hopkins' Boys Alpine Ski Team earned second place at the state alpine meet, Thursday, Feb. 12, at Giant's Ridge in Biwabik. Peter Rolfshus came in fourth, and Brett Bremer came in 9th. Other members of the Hopkins team include Benjamin Bumsted, Samuel Bumsted, Nicholas Eagon, Brennan Kelley, and Robert Meller.

Students earn Future Cities competition honors

eileen_harvala — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 16:21:26 -0600

Globalite, one of Hopkins West Junior High's teams in the 2009 Minnesota Future City Competition, "Building Quality Communities," was the recipient of the Special Presentation Award. The award is given by the League of Minnesota Cities to the team who "demonstrates how a city government, its policies, and services can improve the quality of life for your city's citizens."

2009 HHS blankets available for gift-giving

donna_adams — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 14:42:10 -0600

Anyone who would like to order a commemorative blanket to give a favorite student is welcome to call 763.521.2817 or send an email to meams@nationaltheatre.com. The blankets are made of heavy jersey and silk-screened with the 2009 HHS emblem.

The cost iof the blankets is $30, with proceeds going to support the senior party following graduation. Blankets may be picked up at Hopkins High School during conferences on February 26.

HHS to present The Crucible

donna_adams — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 09:53:48 -0600

Hopkins High School's Royal Productions will present The Crucible, by Arthur Miller, on February 19–22 in the high school's Small Theater. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on February 19, 20, and 21 and at 3 p.m. on February 22.

Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and senior citizens. They are available online at www.hhstheater.org, in the Spirit Shop at the high school during the week of the show, and one hour before each performance.

HHS teacher receives leadership award

donna_adams — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 11:10:15 -0600

Hopkins High School teacher Matt Kappel has been named the recipient of the 2009 Robert Schmidt Aspiring Principal Scholarship Award by the Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP).

The award is given annually by the MASSP to recognize an outstanding student in an educational leadership program. Kappel, who has a B.A.S. degree from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and an M.A. from the University of St. Thomas, is currently working toward a doctorate in education through St. Thomas.

Two HHS seniors chosen as U.S. Presidential Scholar candidates

donna_adams — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 11:56:18 -0600

Two Hopkins High School seniors—Madison Dunitz and Michael Haynes—have been selected as candidates for the United States Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students.

The students were chosen for this honor by the U.S. Department of Education Commission on Presidential Scholars based on their exceptional performance on the College Board SAT or the ACT Assessment. They will now submit additional materials, including transcripts, essays, and school reports, to move forward in the competition.

Blood drive to be held at HHS on Feb. 6

donna_adams — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 13:00:03 -0600

A blood drive sponsored by the Memorial Blood Center will be held at Hopkins High School on Friday, February 6, from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the East Gym.

Walk-in donors are welcome throughout the day. For more information, contact the Hopkins High School Nurse's Office, 952.988.4493.

AVID program accepting applications for 2009-10

donna_adams — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 13:22:20 -0600

The AVID program (Advancement Via Individual Determination) in Hopkins Public Schools is now accepting applications for the 2009-10 school year.

AVID is a class offered at 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades that provides instruction and support in academic skills such as staying organized, taking notes, studying, taking tests, communicating with teachers, and completing the college application process.

The program is designed for students who are:

Hopkins North Junior High team wins 1st place in Stock Market Game

donna_adams — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 13:43:45 -0600

A team of 8th graders at Hopkins North Junior High won first place in the fall session of The Stock Market Game, a simulation activity administered and sponsored locally by Best Prep and RBC Wealth Management. This is the 19th time a Hopkins North team has finished in the top three places in the contest, more than any other school in Minnesota.

Budget information/input meeting set for Feb. 10

donna_adams — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 13:50:34 -0600

A community information/input meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, in Room 215 at Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. This is an opportunity to learn more about the proposed preliminary 2009-10 budget, and to provide input. Detailed budget information about budget proposals, along with a form to submit input online, is available on the 2009-10 Budget Planning website.

HHS Quiz Bowl team at 10-2 in competition

donna_adams — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 13:57:05 -0600

Hopkins High School's Quiz Bowl team, which will be advancing to Nationals in May, has compiled a 10-2 record in state-level competition.

The team participates in a variety of Thursday night leagues and Saturday day-long tournaments. The Hopkins A team is ranked second in their bracket of Northern Metro school teams and qualfied for metro-area finals as well as Nationals.

Empty Bowls ceramics classes offered

donna_adams — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:01:31 -0600

Any community members who would like to handcraft a ceramic bowl for the annual Empty Bowls event that raises money for the ICA foodshelf and the Hopkins Minnetonka Resource Center are invited to participate in a class during February.

Artists Steve Frederickson and Kathy Israel will teach several two-session classes. A bowl will be created at the first class and glazed during the second class, and then it will be donated to the Empty Bowls that will take place on March 24 at the Hopkins Center for the Arts.

"Getting Ready for Kindergarten" session scheduled for Feb. 21

donna_adams — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:12:45 -0600

"Getting Ready for Kindergarten," a special session for parents of children who will be starting kindergarten next fall, will be held on Saturday, February 21, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in Room 215 at Eisenhower Community Center.

Participants will learn about the essential elements for enhancing their children's success in school and for nurturing their love of learning. A Hopkins Public Schools principal and kindergarten teacher will be on hand, in addition to a parent educator, to present information and answer questions.

Adult Options offers online GED preparation

donna_adams — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 11:21:44 -0600

GED-i, an online GED preparation program, is launching statewide to provide a way to prepare for the five GED exams at home, thus lessening the challenges many adults face in their pursuit ot graduation--transportation, childcare, and hectic schedules.

HHS culinary arts teacher named Educator of the Year

donna_adams — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:46:19 -0600

Hopkins High School culinary arts teacher Gayle Durand has been named "Educator of the Year" by the American Culinary Federation, Minneapolis Chefs Chapter, in recognition of her work with the Hopkins High School ProStart team, one of 36 teams from around the country to advance to the national ProStart culinary competition last spring.

The HHS ProStart Team was also recognized and received an award from the American Culinary Federation at their banquet this past November.

Collaboration expands Todos los Santos preschool program to second classroom

donna_adams — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:08:58 -0600

It was only one year ago that Todos los Santos ("All Saints") Preschool was created. The preschool, designed to help English-language-learning children prepare for kindergarten, is a result of an innovative collaboration between Hopkins Public Schools and All Saints Lutheran Church. Now in its second year, the program is expanding with assistance from Gethsemane Lutheran Church.

21st Century Classroom showcased in the Star Tribune and Sun Sailor

connie_sexton — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:14:40 -0600

Our school district recently hosted a demonstration on how the "21st Century Classroom" model is motivating and engaging students in Hopkins Public Schools through the use of interactive and participatory classroom technology.

Visit the links below to see the press coverage about Hopkins and Promethean Interactive Classrooms.

Hopkins students earn prestigious art awards

donna_adams — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:05:17 -0600

Twenty-eight Hopkins students earned honors in the Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards, including 11 students who earned 12 prestigious Gold Key and Silver Key awards. Hopkins earned the second highest number of Scholastic Art Awards in the state; only the Minnesota Arts High School earned more.

Gold Key

Gold Key winners, whose work will go on to the national competition in New York, include:

21st Century Classroom showcased in the Star Tribune and Sun Sailor

donna_adams — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:21:20 -0600

Hopkins is a leader in using technology to enhance education, and recently was one of 15 school districts in the nation to receive the prestigious Torchlight Award from Prometheum, a global leader in interactive technology.

Caring Youth Award nominations due February 9

donna_adams — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 12:46:01 -0600

Each year, the cities of Golden Valley, Hopkins, and Minnetonka, and the Hopkins and Minnetonka school districts host a Caring Youth Recognition event to honor the contributions of area young people in grades 7 through 12. The Glen Lake Optimists Club of Minnetonka are sponsors of the event.

Nominations are being accepted for the 2009 Caring Youth Awards. Nominees must be in grades 7 through 12 and meet at least one of the following criteria:

HHS to host Dance Team Conference Championships

donna_adams — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 12:18:20 -0600

Hopkins High School will host the Dance Team Conference Championships on Thursday, January 15, at 7 p.m. in Lindbergh Center.

With Hopkins one of three dance teams in the Classic Lake Conference to be ranked among the top 10 dance teams in Minnesota, the Conference Championships will be a showcase of top performances.

School Board appoints officers

donna_adams — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:31:05 -0600

The Hopkins School Board appointed its officers for 2009 at the Board meeting held on January 8.

The Board Chair is Yvonne Selcer, the Vice Chair is Ellen Dustman, and the Treasurer is Wendy Donovan. Business Services Director John Toop will continue to serve as Board Clerk.

These appointments took effect on January 9.

HHS Quiz Bowl team qualifies for Nationals

donna_adams — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:36:02 -0600

The Hopkins High School Quiz Bowl Team had an outstanding performance at the Classic Lake Conference Quiz Bowl Tournament on January 10, qualifying them to move on to the national tournament in Chicago on May 29–31.

The members of the qualifying team include Eshaan Rao, Clayton Doyle, Cassie Burke, and Krishna Shankar.

District receives Minnesota School Finance Award

donna_adams — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:38:39 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools is one of about 60 school districts in the state to qualify for a Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) School Finance Award for 2009. Hopkins received this prestigious financial reporting honor for its 2007-08 fiscal year financial results. This is the second consecutive year Hopkins has received the award.

Since 2003, the MDE has recognized school organizations that exhibit sound fiscal health and financial management policies and procedures. To earn this honor, Hopkins:

21st Century Classroom showcase on Jan. 14

donna_adams — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:45:14 -0600

A demonstration of how the "21st Century Classroom" model is motivating and engaging students in Hopkins Public Schools through the use of interactive and participatory classroom technology will take place at 10:45 a.m. on January 14 at Glen Lake Elementary School in Minnetonka.

Hopkins teachers will show how they are using interactive whiteboards, electronic student response and assessment systems, and curriculum delivery tools to engage, motivate, and teach in high-tech, collaborative classrooms.

2009-10 school year begins, Monday, Aug. 31

donna_adams — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 14:31:00 -0600

As the days start to get longer, many parents may be looking ahead to summer vacations. When doing so please keep in mind that the first day of school next fall in Hopkins Public Schools will be Monday, August 31, rather than the day after Labor Day.

State law authorizes school districts with renovation projects in their buildings to have some flexibility in establishing their school calendar. Hopkins is working on major deferred maintenance projects at many of its buildings such as stonework tuckpointing and restoration, roof repairs, etc.

AP World History classes to host Festival of Nations

donna_adams — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:22:05 -0600

Hopkins High School's AP (Advanced Placement) World History classes will host the third annual Festival of Nations on Tuesday, January 13, from 9:40 to 11:40 a.m. in the school gymnasium.

The event will feature activities, foods, and information about more than 25 countries, presented in booths created by the students. More than 150 students are enrolled in AP World History this year, one of 16 AP classes offered at Hopkins High School.

Used book sale to support HHS Senior Party

donna_adams — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:21:35 -0600

The planning committee for the 2009 Hopkins High School Senior Party is sponsoring a used book and CD sale on Saturday, January 24, at the Wayzata Bay Center in downtown Wayzata.

Donations of used books, CDs, DVDs, or videotapes are appreciated and can be dropped off in the main office at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. Items for the sale should be marked Senior Party.

Proceeds from the sale will be used to offset costs of this year's all-night party following commencement.Anyone with questions is welcome to call 952.545.0931.

Hopkins students help feed hungry children

donna_adams — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 14:26:18 -0600

More than 50 students and parents from six Hopkins schools gave up vacation days to donate their time at Feed My Starving Children during Winter Break.

The group packed 10,368 meals, which will feed 28 children for an entire year. Students and parents from Alice Smith Elementary, Gatewood Elementary, Glen Lake Elementary, L. H. Tanglen Elementary, Hopkins North Junior High, and Hopkins West Junior High participated in the project.

HHS students win speech contest

donna_adams — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 10:04:54 -0600

Two Hopkins High School students won the top two places in the annual Voice of Democracy speech competition. Junior Eshaan Rao won first place and will move on to regional competition. Sophomore Keerthana Shankar's speech took second place.

HHS Knowledge Master team places 5th in state

donna_adams — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 10:45:47 -0600

A 22-member team from Hopkins High School finished 5th in Minnesota in the senior high division of the Knowledge Master Academic Open competition held in December.

Annual HEF Gala set for February 21

donna_adams — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 11:27:24 -0600

The 10th annual Hopkins Education Foundation Gala will take place on Saturday, February 21, at the Minneapolis Marriott City Center.

The theme of this year's Gala, "A Decade of Making a Difference," highlights the Foundation's history of raising community donations for Hopkins Public Schools. Since its inception in 2000, the HEF has raised $1.2 million to fund innovative educational programs. Last year's Gala alone raised $143,000.

Safe Schools

eileen_harvala — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 16:31:48 -0600

December is a time filled with hustle and bustle, whether you are in the hallways of a school, on the road, or in the aisle of a grocery store. Throughout the past couple of weeks, I have run into a number of district constituents out and about with whom I have had the opportunity to chat.

CFAC makes recommendations for budget planning

donna_adams — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:23:32 -0600

The Citizens Financial Advisory Committee (CFAC), which comprises financial and business experts, recently developed several recommendations for the Hopkins School Board and district administration to consider as they develop the school district's 2009-10 budget.

In making their recommendations the CFAC took into account several existing conditions, none of which is unique to the Hopkins Public Schools:

Auditors present positive report

donna_adams — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:48:55 -0600

LarsonAllen LLP, the independent auditors for Hopkins Public Schools, presented a positive report to the Hopkins School Board on December 18.

The audit of the school district's financial records for the budget year that ended June 30, 2008, showed that Hopkins Public Schools' financial statements were "fairly stated," earning an "unqualified" audit report. No compliance issues were noted in the auditors' review of laws, regulations, contracts, and grants.

School Board establishes school tax levy amount

donna_adams — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 13:17:05 -0600

The Hopkins School Board adopted a resolution at its December 18 meeting setting the amount of the school district's property tax levy payable in 2009 at $36.2 million. Although this is the maximum allowable levy amount, it is only a 1.4 percent increase over the amount that was payable in 2008.

Bring Your Parents to School Day a success

eileen_harvala — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:30:46 -0600

Approximately 300 parents participated in Hopkins North Junior High's (HNJH) first Bring Your Parents to School Day, attending their children's classes and experiencing a school day, first hand.

"Because this was our first time, we really had no idea how many parents would come to school, said Principal Pat Schmidt, Ed.D. "We were very pleased, and plan to do this again next year."

Delta Place raises donations for Invisible Children

eileen_harvala — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:33:06 -0600

Students at Delta Place, located at the Eisenhower Community Center in Hopkins, raised more than $600 to support children at a secondary school in Uganda. At the start of the 2008 school year, students and teachers at Delta Place began raising money and books for the Invisible Children campaign, which supports children in war-torn northern Uganda. They wrote summaries about the war, sold Links of Love, organized book drives, and made key chains.

Veteran pottery teachers help community members make bowls for Empty Bowls

eileen_harvala — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:21:43 -0600

Community members of all ages are invited to create a ceramic bowl under the tutelage of veteran artists and potters, Steve Frederickson and Kathy Israel, for the 11th annual Empty Bowls event. This year's Empty Bowls event is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24. Classes for adults, and classes for adults and children are planned for February. No pottery experience is necessary. The goal is to create 100 bowls.

Teachers honored for use of technology to enhance student learning

eileen_harvala — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 13:27:50 -0600

Two Hopkins teachers receive awards for modeling best practices in using technology in their classroom and engaging students in learning. Sara Lacey, a 4th grade teacher at Gatewood Elementary School, and Charles Schlegel, an area learning center teacher at Hopkins North Junior High, have been honored as 2008 TIES Exceptional Teachers. They were among 67 teachers from 33 school districts chosen by their superintendents for TIES Exceptional Teacher recognition because of their use of technology.

Bond rating for Hopkins Public Schools raised

eileen_harvala — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 15:09:48 -0600

Citing the district's excellent and much-improved financial management, Hopkins Public Schools recently received a new bond rating that jumped two rating increments—Baa1 to A2—from Moody's Investor Service. This improved rating will enable the district to obtain better rates for bonds, lower interest rates, and more competitive bids from firms buying bonds.

Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl team tops in the state

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 06:19:16 -0600

Hopkins North Junior High's (HNJH) 7th grade Quiz Bowl team earned first place in the Minnesota Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl, sharing that top honor with two other schools.

About Quiz Bowl

Quiz Bowl is a scholastic, computer team competition. The computer contest consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, covering math, geography, government, sports, spelling, science, literature, English, history, general information and trivia. Points are awarded based on how fast team members answer the questions as well as accuracy.

2009 Our Community Reads: Sparking fitness for healthy bodies and minds

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:07:23 -0600

Are you a parent, grandparent, child caregiver, or teacher striving for a child's greater success in school? Are you interested in learning about strategies designed to improve a child's ability to focus and stay on task? Are stress and meltdowns an ongoing struggle in your home? Are you concerned about the impacts of screen time physically and mentally on your child?

Registration open for early childhood education classes

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:36:05 -0600

Registrations are currently being accepted for Hopkins Public Schools' winter Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) classes, which are available to young children from birth through pre-kindergarten age and their parents. ECFE includes activities and information such as parent/child sessions, workshops, special family events, and other fun activities. ECFE classes are conducted at two locations-the Harley Hopkins Family Center, 125 Monroe Ave. S., Hopkins, and the Ronald B. Davis Community Center, 5430 Glenwood Ave., Golden Valley.

Students take active role in developing after-school activities

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:19:55 -0600

Youth programming at Hopkins Public Schools' two junior highs focuses on creating an environment were students play an active role in their after-school activities. Students at Hopkins North Junior High and Hopkins West Junior High have risen to the challenge with guidance from Steve Bucko, youth development supervisor, who divides his time between both junior high schools. The success of the program is in part to the energy, passion, creativity, and vision that Steve brings to the position.

Adult classes resume, Monday, Jan. 5

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:05:10 -0600

Registration for Adult Options in Education's classes in the new year is open. Classes will resume, Monday, Jan. 5, at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins.

Knowledge Master team earns first place honors

eileen_harvala — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:00:42 -0600

A team of students from Hopkins West Junior High (HWJH) earned top honors—first place in the state and first place overall—in the junior high division of the fall Knowledge Master Open academic competition.

Human rights assembly focuses on school community and climate

eileen_harvala — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 14:15:18 -0600

A recent human rights assembly at Hopkins West Junior High continues the school's work on developing a respectful community and positive school climate.

Principal Terry Wolfson asked the students to consider what the school would be like if it was a more ideal environment where students felt respected and safe. Students watched a video illustrating the damage that can be caused by disrespect, and the contrasting healing effects of respect.The video featured sketch art and atmospheric music by two 9th grade students.

Adult Options seeks black caps & gowns

eileen_harvala — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 14:47:20 -0600

Adult Options in Education is seeking donations of black graduation caps and gowns—baccalaureate or master's—for its graduates.

Each spring, adult graduates, from 17-years-old to senior citizens, walk across the stage at Hopkins Center for the Arts and celebrate a major life accomplishment, earning a general education development (GED) degree through Adult Options in Education. Black graduation caps and gowns, which will be re-used every year, are needed for these graduates.

Grant goes toward athletic scholarships

eileen_harvala — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 15:09:18 -0600

A new grant will help defray athletic participation fees. Hopkins Public Schools received a $5,617 grant from the Minnesota State High School League Foundation that will enable students who meet federal low-income guidelines to participate in after-school programs. Last year, the district's Athletic Department provided more that $60,000 in financial aid to students who were not able to pay the athletic participation fees. The MSHSL grant will help defray those costs for more than 25 students.

National Honor Society helps food shelf and food relief efforts

eileen_harvala — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:28:21 -0600

The Hopkins High School National Honor Society (NHS) collected 587 pounds of food for the Intercongregation Communities Association (ICA) food shelf during the recent Cans for Candidates Food Drive.

Twenty NHS members volunteered at Feed My Starving Children in October. Their work, along with the other volunteers during that shift, helped package 17,712 meals, which will feed 49 children for an entire year.

Dawn Hansen is the National Honor Society adviser.

Hopkins North Junior High Student Council honored for Coats for Kids campaign efforts

eileen_harvala — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:30:43 -0600

The Hopkins North Junior High (HNJH) Student Council received first place honors for the Pilgrim Dry Cleaners Coats for Kids campaign. Under the direction of the school's Student Council, HNJH collected the greatest number-590-of coats and jackets in the state. The items were cleaned and repaired by Pilgrim Cleaners and distributed to nine local charities. Student Council members received a plaque for their trophy case, a certificate of distinction, and a Subway meal. Student Council advisers are Sue-Ellen Baird and Marcia Danahy.

Hopkins Public Schools cancels tax levy hearing

eileen_harvala — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:18:58 -0600

With only a slight increase in its proposed levy—1.31 percent over last year's levy—Hopkins Public Schools will not be conducting a Truth in Taxation tax levy hearing, Tuesday, Dec. 9, with a continuation, if necessary, Thursday, Dec. 18. State law allows exemptions to Truth in Taxation hearings, if levy increases are less than 6 percent. Hopkins' hearings traditionally have had low attendance.

Robins Adapted Soccer team wins state championship

eileen_harvala — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:15:34 -0600

The Robins Adapted Soccer team finished off a perfect 13-0 season by winning the adapted soccer state championship. During the tournament, the Robins defeated St. Paul Humboldt 17-0, South Suburban 6-1, and Anoka-Hennepin 4-3 in the championship game. Junior Steven Halsey had two goals for the Robins in the title game. In addition to Halsey, Hopkins' members of the team include sophomore Harrison Lerner and senior Zach Thuleen. Lerner and Halsey were named to the Wells-Fargo All Tournament Team.

ProPEL students raise money and donations for baby kit project

eileen_harvala — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:58:18 -0600

As part of a class community service project, the students in the ProPEL Program at Hopkins High School raised more than $1,000, and put together baby kits for homeless families in the metro area expecting babies. In addition to raising money, the students organized various drop sites to collect baby clothes and supplies. The kits were presented to Loaves and Fishes for further distribution, Monday, Nov. 24.

Minnesota Elementary Honor Choir 2008

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:28:18 -0600

Five Glen Lake Elementary School students—Meredith Ackerson, Alex Campbell, Konstantinos Kochilas, Marie Olson, and Sydney Simpson—were selected for the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) of Minnesota Elementary Honor Choir 2008. The students are five of 120 outstanding young Minnesota musicians selected from more than 400 recorded auditions. Teri Larson is the vocal music teacher for the students. The singers performed at the ACDA fall convention.

Student athletes sign letters of intent

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:31:58 -0600

A number of Hopkins High School's student athletes recently signed national letters of intent, including:

Students learn world dances

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 19:28:15 -0600

Young Audiences of Minnesota has begun its fourth year of providing MetLife Foundation Dance for Life residencies in Hopkins Public Schools. Hopkins students are learning world dances from professional dance artists, including Christopher Yaeger, Jae Phillips, Kenna Sarge and Katha Dance Theatre. This activity is made possible in part from a matching grant from the Minnesota Arts Board, through an appropriation by the Minnesota state Legislature, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Advanced Placement Scholar Honors

eileen_harvala — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:20:51 -0600

A record number of Hopkins students earned Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar honors on exams that they took in the spring of 2008. One hundred and fifty-nine students earned 161 AP Scholar honors from the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the exams.

In 2008, the highest number—950—of Advanced Placement (AP) exams were taken. Seventy-five percent of Hopkins' students scored three of higher on the exams.

Celebrate 100 years of educational excellence

eileen_harvala — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 14:42:38 -0600

All community residents, alumni, and friends are invited to attend a celebration of the 100th anniversary of Hopkins High School scheduled for 4:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, and Tuesday, Dec. 9, at the school, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka.

Celebration Activities

The event will feature displays of historical memorabilia, decade-by-decade photo collages, and tours of the award-winning programs and cutting-edge classroom technology in the current facility.

Hopkins Votes engages students in learning about democracy

eileen_harvala — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 13:15:24 -0600

Hopkins Votes, Hopkins Public Schools' new student voter education program, gave all students the opportunity to vote in school on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 4.

Learning about democracy

Hopkins Votes engaged students in learning about democracy, government, and civic responsibilities. Voting opportunities included:

We Welcome All Students

eileen_harvala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:38:48 -0500

Welcome to my favorite season of the year—fall! Truly, there is nothing that compares to fall in Minnesota. The colors, the crunch of the leaves, the harvest moon, and the smell of cold! We recently hiked through Savannah State Forest with our two girls, Ellie (11) and Ana Mei (6) where we experienced the vibrant colors of red, orange, and yellow spotted with green.

Students' helping hands reach out to community

eileen_harvala — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:50:31 -0600

Imagine 1,200 people volunteering 3,000 hours to help with nonprofit community organizations over a three-day period. That's exactly what happened at Hopkins West Junior High in October.

Helping Hands community service project

All students at the school participate in the Helping Hands community service project. The goal of this school-wide project was to provide opportunities for young people to make a difference in their community, and to allow them to experience the sense of satisfaction that comes by serving others.

Todos los Santos

eileen_harvala — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 16:31:11 -0500

Researchers know the importance of early childhood education and family involvement in kindergartners' healthy school adjustment and future academic success. All Saints Lutheran Church and Hopkins Public Schools have begun the second year of a preschool collaborative, Todos los Santos, which is designed to impact the academic success of future kindergartners.

National Middle Level Principal of the Year Finalist

eileen_harvala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:42:30 -0600

Patrice "Pat" Schmidt, Ed.D., principal at Hopkins North Junior High in Minnetonka, was named runner-up for National Middle Level Principal of the Year. She was one of three finalists for the National Middle Level Principal of the Year, which is a program sponsored by MetLife and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

Concert Choir performance recognition

eileen_harvala — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 13:06:28 -0600

In November, the Hopkins High School Concert Choir performed two honors performances. The choir was invited to be a guest performer at the Minnesota State University-Mankato Choral Festival. The Concert Choir performed music by contemporary composers, Ola Gjeilo, Derek Bermel, and Rosephanye Powell along with a Southern folk song by Vaclav Nelhybel. The Concert Choir also participated in the mass choir for the festival under the direction of David Dickau.

Advanced Placement Environmental Scientists

eileen_harvala — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 12:11:16 -0500

Students enrolled in the popular Advanced Placement Environmental Science course at Hopkins High School conducted stream health assessments on Minnehaha Creek. The students worked with Hennepin County Environmental Services as part of the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District's volunteer stream monitoring program-River Watch. Students collected stream invertebrate samples from the creek, measured water quality, and assessed general stream characteristics. Students learned about stream characteristics, water quality measurements, and biodiversity topics.

Hopkins earns high approval ratings

eileen_harvala — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 11:40:40 -0500

And the survey says: Hopkins ranks in top 2 percent of districts

The outstanding quality of education rating for Hopkins Public Schools places the school district in the top two percent of school districts in the state, and one of the top five school districts in the metropolitan area. Those rankings were two of the many high-approval accolades revealed in a recent survey.

Hopkins Bowling Team

eileen_harvala — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:24:11 -0500

Bowling Team wins 2008 Northern Challenge

Hopkins High School's varsity bowling team won the 2008 Northern Fall Challenge, which was sponsored by the Bowling Proprietors Association of Minnesota. The challenge involved 24 teams from the northern half of Minnesota. Hopkins High School's team bowled in a three-game qualifier which was followed by a seven-game pool match with the top eight teams going into the final match tournament. Hopkins then bested all seven teams to secure the championship.

Softball team earns top academic honors

eileen_harvala — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 14:02:33 -0500

On the field and in the classroom, Hopkins' Fastpitch Softball Team exemplifies excellence

The National Fastpitch Coaches Association has named Hopkins 2008 Fastpitch Team as one of the top 10 high school softball teams in the country for highest grade point average (GPA). The 2008 Hopkins Fastpitch Team finished in sixth place with an GPA team average of 3.715. Coach Anne Campbell's softball teams have finished in the top 10 in GPA for nine years, including first place in 2006 and 2007.

Torchlight Technology Award

eileen_harvala — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 10:07:14 -0500

Hopkins Public Schools has received the prestigious Torchlight Award from Promethean, a global leader in interactive technology. Hopkins is one of only 15 districts nationwide to be honored with this distinction.

National Merit Honors

eileen_harvala — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:12:14 -0500

Twenty-two Hopkins High School seniors have been honored for their outstanding achievement on the 2007 Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Five Hopkins High School seniors—Noah Berman, Conor Doherty, Michael Haynes, Caroline Hedberg, and Jack Wanderman—have been named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. These students represent the top one-half of one percent of high school seniors in the country.

Summit for Courageous Conversation Honors

eileen_harvala — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:49:08 -0500

Carlos Connell-Torres received the "Learning and Teaching Award" at The Summit for Courageous Conversations ‘08. The Learning and Teaching Award honored Connell-Torres for being a classroom teacher who demonstrates radically-innovative and culturally-relevant instruction that engages all students, and for promoting the highest achievement of underserved student-of-color populations. Connell-Torres is an English language learner (ELL) teacher at L.H. Tanglen Elementary School and the district's elementary ELL coordinator.

Google Teacher Academy

eileen_harvala — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 12:47:14 -0600

Benjamin Friesen, an 8th grade science teacher at Hopkins West Junior High, was invited to attend the Google Teacher Academy, which is a free, professional development experience designed to help K-12 educators get the most from innovative technologies.

Each Academy is an intensive, one-day event where participants get hands-on experience with Google's free products and other technologies, learn about innovative instructional strategies, receive resources to share with colleagues, and immerse themselves in an innovative corporate environment.

Minnesota Nurse Administrator of the Year

eileen_harvala — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:26:20 -0600

Mary Jo Martin, Hopkins Public Schools' lead nurse and school nurse at Hopkins West Junior High, has been selected as Minnesota School Nurse Administrator of the Year by the School Nurse Organization of Minnesota. Martin was nominated and selected because of her outstanding nursing practice. She consistently demonstrates excellence in the application of the standards of professional school nursing. She is an advocate for students in the community.

Hopkins West Junior High featured at Breaking Ranks Secondary Schools Showcase

eileen_harvala — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:32:46 -0600

Hopkins West Junior High has been invited to participate in the Breaking Ranks 2009 Secondary School Showcase, which is presented by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) and The Center for Secondary School Redesign.

Partnerships Essential to Educational Excellence

eileen_harvala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:19:45 -0500

Co-Written by Board Chair Sandy Forster and Superintendent John Schultz

Hopkins swimmer earns top medals at Paralympic Games

eileen_harvala — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:25:41 -0600

Anna Eames, a senior at Hopkins High School, earned a gold medal in the Women's 100m Butterfly S-10 and a bronze medal in the Women's 100m Freestyle S-10 at the Paralympic Games.

For the past five years, Anna has swam on the Hopkins High School team. She was a varsity team captain, section champion, and has been named All-Conference Honorable Mention. Her major achievements include:

Volleyball Coach of the Year honors

eileen_harvala — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:21:09 -0600

Vicki Swenson, Hopkins High School's volleyball coach, has been named Minnesota Co-Coach of the Year by the Minnesota High School Coaches Association. She was also named the Section 6AAA by the coaches association.

"We are very proud of Vicki and all that she means to our volleyball program and department," said Dan Johnson, Hopkins' athletic director.

Research paper published in professional journal

eileen_harvala — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:54:33 -0600

John Sammler, a science teacher at Hopkins High School and the Off Campus Program, recently had his master's project article, "Population Trends of Tundra-Nesting Birds at Cape Churchill, Manitoba, in Relation to Increasing Goose Populations," published in The Condor, a peer review scientific journal. The Condor is considered one of the top two professional bird journals. International bird experts and ecologists read and use the data in The Condor to inform their own work and to provide information for further bird studies.

The Royal Page goes online

eileen_harvala — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:01:40 -0600

The Royal Page, Hopkins High School's award-winning student newspaper, is online and has a new look for its printed version as well. This project began with a grant from the Hopkins Education Foundation, which enabled the high school to purchase new cameras to facilitate a highly visual online and print newspaper. Adviser Jeff Kocur attended a workshop sponsored by the American Society of Newspaper Editors that helped him create curriculum for an online print newspaper.

The Royal Page receives top awards

eileen_harvala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 19:14:03 -0600

Hopkins High School's newspaper, The Royal Page, has again been awarded a first class ranking by the National Scholastic Press Association. The first class ranking is the second highest ranking awarded by the organization. The newspaper also received a mark of distinction for its content and coverage of issues relevant to the Hopkins High School community.

Hopkins Public Schools' new equity coordinator

eileen_harvala — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:50:06 -0600

Stanley Brown is Hopkins Public Schools' new equity coordinator, bringing with him many years of classroom teaching and administrative leadership experience.

Discover Hopkins Public Schools!

eileen_harvala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:40:23 -0500

Welcome to the 2008-09 school year in the Hopkins School District. More importantly, welcome to the excellence we provide, along with numerous exciting opportunities for learners of all ages—from birth through adulthood. Whether you are a parent, a community member, or a business owner, I invite you to discover—and in some instances, rediscover—what the district has to offer students, families, and community members.

We have much to welcome as we approach the new year:

Connect–ED® Messaging System

eileen_harvala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:01:23 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools has launched its new Connect-ED® messaging system. Connect-ED® will enable the school district to personally communicate with parents about emergency situations, school events, and other issues that have an impact on their children such as attendance and school lunch balances. It will allow the school district and its schools to send personalized voice messages to a family's home, work or cell phones, and to send email messages. With this system, the district and its schools will be able to reach all parents in the district within minutes.

Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice

eileen_harvala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:53:44 -0600

Hopkins' seven-year-old Reduce the Use program has a new name, Hopkins Community Coalition: One Voice For Reducing Youth Chemical Use, and new logo.

Mission & Goals

The mission and goals of this coalition remain focused on reducing the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs by youth. The coalition's mission is: "We will live in a community where more of our youth will choose not to use alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs; and where the community speaks out with one voice regarding illegal chemical use."