District News

Monitoring Minneapolis/St. Paul situation

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 09:45:36 -0600

You may be aware of an Internet threat received yesterday by Minneapolis Public Schools and a school in St. Paul. We wanted to let you know that we are monitoring the situation closely. We also wanted to reassure you that nothing has happened in Hopkins and that your children are safe.

Spirit Shop conducts special sale through April 30

eileen_harvala — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:00:58 -0600

Due to an overstock of size 2X hooded sweatshirts, the Spirit Shop is conducting a special sale through Friday, April 30. Classic hooded sweatshirts in size 2X will be on sale for $29. The sweatshirts are available in royal blue, black, and gray. In additional all navy sweatshirts, in sizes large, X-large, and 2X, will be on clearance sale for $15. The Spirit Shop is located at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. The Spirit Shop is open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday-Friday. Checks and cash are accepted. Call 952-988-4551 for additional information.

2010 Census is coming: Help Center at Eisenhower

eileen_harvala — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:10:57 -0600

Watch for it. All households in Hopkins Public Schools will soon receive the 2010 Census Form. Residents should receive their forms some time between March 15 and March 17.

Hopkins selects Athena and Apollo award winners

eileen_harvala — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:51:13 -0600

Hopkins has selected Grace Gerring as its 2010 Athena award-winner, and Alex Fons as its Apollo award-winner, which are honors presented to the outstanding female and male athletes in the senior class at Hopkins High School.

District math coordinator to lead statewide math group

eileen_harvala — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:19:40 -0600

Michele Luke, a mathematics teacher at Hopkins West Junior High and Hopkins Public Schools' K-12 mathematics coordinator and Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) co-coordinator, has been elected the 38th president of the Minnesota Council of Teachers of Mathematics (MCTM).

About MCTM

MCTM is a professional organization of nearly 1,500 of Minnesota's K-16 mathematics educators dedicated to promoting the teaching and learning of meaningful mathematics for all students by supporting educators in their efforts to improve mathematics education.

Kindergarten Roundups offer opportunity to learn about school

eileen_harvala — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 15:26:37 -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.

Kindergarten Roundups are scheduled for:
Alice Smith Elementary
6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 8

Eisenhower Elementary/XinXing
6 p.m. Thursday, March 25A

270 Dances features students' creative dance talents

eileen_harvala — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 15:40:13 -0600

270 Dances, Hopkins Public Schools' districtwide dance concert, is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, March 22, in the auditorium at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka.

270 Dances showcases highlights from Hopkins' curricular and extracurricular dance opportunities for students. A variety of dances will be performed by Hopkins High School, Hopkins West Junior High, Alice Smith Elementary, Eisenhower Elementary/XinXing Academy, Glen Lake Elementary, Meadowbrook Elementary, and L.H. Tanglen Elementary students.

Hopkins’ caring youth honored for outstanding community service

eileen_harvala — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:26:29 -0600

Twelve students from Hopkins Public Schools who have given outstanding service to others were honored at this year's Caring Youth Recognition event. A total of 30 youth received Caring Youth awards at the recognition ceremony.

Hopkins' Caring Youth

Hopkins Public Schools' honorees include:

Three teams advance to state Destination ImagiNation

eileen_harvala — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 14:22:46 -0600

Two teams of seniors from Hopkins High School and one team of 9th graders from Hopkins North Junior High and Hopkins West Junior High advance to the state Destination ImagiNation tournament after winning the regional competition. The state tournament will be conducted, Saturday, April 17, at Anoka High School.

Advancing to state competition

Teams advancing to state include:

Tanglen students organize fund-raisers

eileen_harvala — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:14:20 -0600

Students at L.H. Tanglen Elementary School have organized successful fund-raisers to aid the victims of the earthquake in Haiti, and to support local food shelves.

Hats Off for Haiti

Several of the school's 6th graders organized a fund-raiser for Haiti earthquake relief efforts. Their letter to the Salvation Army tells the story:

Hopkins No Text Pledge featured on Fox 9 News

terri_osland — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 10:04:53 -0600

Students at Hopkins High School pledged to not text while they are driving. Organizers worked to get a thousand pledges from students at the basketball game on Tuesday night and their efforts were featured on Fox 9 at night.

View the video at Fox 9 News.

Hopkins junior takes first prize in composers contest

eileen_harvala — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:29:20 -0600

Cody Bursch, a junior at Hopkins High School, took first prize in the Junior Composers Contest administered by the Minnesota Federation of Music Club.

There were four age-group categories and Cody's piece "Time" won for the oldest age-group (16-18 years old). "Time" was written for chamber orchestra.

His piece will now be submitted to a regional contest and he will have the possibility of a scholarship to the Junior Composers Institute held this summer.

Senior Kallie Billadeau named Let's Play Hockey Goalie of the Year

scott_howard — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:35:33 -0600

Let's Play Hockey publication has selected Hopkins' girls hockey captain, senior Kallie Billadeau, as Senior Goalie of the Year.

Hopkins, once again, receives School Finance Award

eileen_harvala — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:02:27 -0600

Once again, 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 2010. Hopkins received this prestigious financial reporting honor for its 2008-09 fiscal year financial results. This is the third consecutive year that Hopkins has received this award.

English Language Learner families invited to dinner, March 16

eileen_harvala — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:00:49 -0600

Hopkins High School and Hopkins North Junior High families of English Language Learners are invited to a dinner, followed by a workshop with school guidance counselors and hands-on information on how to use the Parent Portal, which is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 16, at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka.

Kids & Company registration, March 8-12

eileen_harvala — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:14:59 -0600

Kids & Company, Hopkins Public Schools' nationally accredited extended-day program for children in kindergarten through 6th grade, registration for summer and next school year takes place at the following locations, dates and times:

Alice Smith

Monday, March 8

4-6 p.m.

Meadowbrook

Tuesday, March 9

4-6 p.m.

Discover Hopkins' two preschool options

eileen_harvala — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:28:59 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools Community Education program offers two programs options for preschoolers with registration and visiting days taking place.

Kaleidoscope Preschool

Kaleidoscope Preschool is a part-day, part-week, school-year program for children ages 3 to 5 located at the Harley Hopkins Family Center and the Ronald B. Davis Community Center attached to Meadowbrook Elementary School. Registration for the 2010-11 school year occurs in March. Please call 952-988-5000 to be added to the mailing list for registration materials.

Parent conversations focus on raising children, strengthening families

eileen_harvala — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:46:27 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools' Community Education is offering a series of parent conversation circles focusing on raising children and strengthening families.

The circles will be conducted form 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. Pre-registration is requested, and can be made by calling 952-988-4070. The cost is $10 per class.

Soup with the Superintendent, Thursday, March 11

eileen_harvala — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:45:25 -0600

Soup, sandwich, and conversation with the superintendent is on the agenda for the next Soup with the Superintendent gathering, which is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 11, at the Eisenhower Elementary School, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins.

Elementary parents and district residents are invited to join Superintendent John Schultz, Ph.D., for a soup and sandwich supper, and an informal discussion.

Help fill our community’s Empty Bowls, Tuesday, March 16

eileen_harvala — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 15:47:04 -0600

Community members of all ages are invited to the 12th annual Empty Bowls fund-raiser, which is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 16, at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. This year's community co-chair is Dr. Jim Block from Affiliated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons.

The funds raised will support community food shelves—ResourceWest (formerly the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center), and the Intercongregation Communities Association (ICA) Food Shelf.

High school teacher receives 'Apples for Teacher' Award

eileen_harvala — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:53:14 -0600

Bill Ruis, a math teacher at Hopkins High School, received an Apples for Teacher award, Tuesday, February 22, from 102.9 Lite FM. He was nominated by two students—Nicole Christensen and Ashlee Bednar.

In their nomination, the students wrote, "Mr. Ruis is an amazing teacher who really connects with his students and connects math to real life in order to help us to understand it. He is very funny and seems to enjoy math and enjoys teaching."

The morning show co-hosts-—Cheryl Kaye and Kevin Murphy-—presented the award to Bill.

Hopkins Royal Cuisine is now on Twitter

eileen_harvala — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 14:07:36 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools Royal Cuisine Food Services is now on Twitter. The new Twitter page will update parents on what their kids are eating at school, fun recipes to try at home, nation and statewide news on nutrition updates, and school lunch nutrition information. To follow Royal Cuisine, visit its Twitter page.

Getting Ready for Kindergarten

sid_voss — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:13:49 -0600

North students place second in Science Bowl

eileen_harvala — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:10:19 -0600

A team of students from Hopkins North Junior High (HNJH) finished second in the Minnesota Academy of Science's Minnesota State Regional Science Bowl. Team members are Synneva "Eva" Druskin, Mary Gertner, Margaret "Maggie" O'Neil, Christian Peterson, and Paul Vogt.

A total of 95 students from 19 teams from 10 schools participated in the tournament. HNJH first defeated Blake Middle School in a double-elimination round, and then tied with Minnetonka Middle School West Team 2, before losing to Minnetonka in a special final elimination round.

Student artwork on display during March

eileen_harvala — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:31:44 -0600

March is National Youth Art Month, and an exhibit of student artwork from all of schools in the Hopkins School District will be on display from Thursday, February 25, through Saturday, April 3, at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

A reception for all students and their families is scheduled for 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 2, in the Charles Redepenning Gallery at the Hopkins Center for the Arts.

New Teens Alone walk-in service available in Hopkins

eileen_harvala — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:39:22 -0600

Teens Alone, a free counseling service for teens and their families who live and/or go to school in the Hopkins School District, will has a new walk-in service with a counselor available from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, at 915 Mainstreet (ResourceWest building), Hopkins. The counselor will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For additional information about Teens Alone, its services and counseling please call 952-988-TEEN, or visit its website.

All students safe & return to class after bomb threat

eileen_harvala — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 11:05:28 -0600

At 7:57 a.m. Wednesday, February 17, Hopkins High School received a bomb threat from an adult male. The caller said that the bomb was located in a specific area of the high school and that it would go off at a specific time.

With the safety and security of students and staff members as its top priority, the high school administration made a decision to evacuate students and staff to Hopkins North Junior High.

Superintendent says thanks for handling of bomb threat

eileen_harvala — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 15:12:37 -0600

As superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools, I want to update you with more information surrounding an incident that occurred at Hopkins High School (HHS) this morning.

At approximately 8 a.m., an individual called HHS with a bomb threat. It is always unfortunate when menacing behavior, especially with all the good things happening in our schools, disrupts learning. The decision was made to evacuate the building. All staff and students went to Hopkins North Junior High School (HNJH) while the Minnetonka Police Department searched the building.

Hopkins places 2nd & 3rd in Stock Market Game

eileen_harvala — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:19:28 -0600

Hopkins North Junior High students took second and third place state honors in BestPrep's Stock Market Game.

Between September and December, two groups of students in Marcia Danahy's Challenge gifted and talented class, earned second and third place for their investing. Jacob Bernstein, Matthew Doll, Cole Feagler, and Sidharth Gopinath made enough virtual cash to earn them the title of second place state winners. Third place winners included Leah Chase, Jaclyn Kueny, Erik Maag, and Samuel Parker.

Hopkins’ musical, The Wizard of Oz, earns theater honors

eileen_harvala — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:36:15 -0600

Hopkins High School's award-winning theater program, Royal Productions, has, once again, earned honors in the SpotLight Musical Theatre Program. Hopkins was honored for its fall musical, The Wizard of Oz, receiving an Outstanding Performance by Chorus honor and five individual student honors.

Hopkins' individual student honorees include:

XinXing Academy students celebrate the Year of the Tiger

sid_voss — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:18:38 -0600

Students from XinXing Academy, Hopkins Public Schools' Chinese immersion program in Eisenhower Elementary School, sang in the lunar new year, Tuesday, February 9, in excellent Mandarin. One hundred and forty students in kindergarten through 2nd grade filled the Hopkins High School auditorium stage. Friends and relatives came from near and far to see this celebration of Chinese culture, and to hear the children speaking and singing in Chinese.

Apply now for ProPEL

terri_osland — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 13:14:55 -0600

Students interested in the chance to have an extraordinary opportunity to get ahead in their field of interest and try it out before investing time and money into college courses should apply for the ProPEL program. The ProPEL program is accepting applications for the 2010-11 school year. Applications are available in the Hopkins High School Administration Office and online below. Propel stands for Professionals Providing Experience for Life.

Application acceptance has been extended to Friday, February 19.

Questions: See Jesse Theirl or Kirsten Slinde.

Enjoy five nights of student theater

eileen_harvala — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:44:08 -0600

Come and enjoy student theater at its finest during Hopkins High School's Royal Productions Theater Blowout. The Theater Blowout includes three productions, involving more than 55 students, presenting five nights of the best high school theater.

Hopkins Quiz Bowl Team qualifies for national competition

eileen_harvala — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 11:18:09 -0600

A Hopkins High School Quiz Bowl Team has qualified for National Quiz Bowl competition. Hopkins A Team members are Rory Carruthers, Ari Lederman, Asher Trangle, Eshaan Rao, and Kenneth Wee.

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.

Maintaining class sizes and education program top priorities for Hopkins' 2010-11 budget

eileen_harvala — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 15:33:08 -0600

With a healthy fund balance and rigorous financial stability monitoring, Hopkins Public Schools is not considering major reductions to its 2010-11 budget. The district's priority goals are to maintain class sizes and educational programming.

Maintaining class sizes and education program top priorities for Hopkins' 2010-11 budget

eileen_harvala — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 15:52:11 -0600

Hopkins students—brothers—take top honors in Voice of Democracy speech contest

eileen_harvala — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:33:04 -0600

Eshaan Rao, a 12th grader at Hopkins High School, and Sachin Rao, a 9th grader at Hopkins North Junior High, received first and second place, respectively, in the Voice of Democracy speech contest sponsored by the Hopkins Veterans of Foreign Wars. Their awards come with scholarship winnings in addition to the opportunity to compete in the state Voice of Democracy contest.

Student artists create work for Foot in the Door 4 exhibition

eileen_harvala — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:51:02 -0600

Twenty-six Hopkins High School students, who are enrolled in Randi Rood's Advanced Drawing and Painting class, are submitting art work for the Minneapolis Institute of Arts' Foot in the Door 4 exhibition. The students are creating a piece of art that must fit into a 12-inch cube.

Two Hopkins Nordic skiers to compete in National Junior Olympics

eileen_harvala — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:58:24 -0600

Two Hopkins students have earned spots on the Midwest Nordic Team, and will be competing in the 2010 National Junior Olympics.

H1N1 flu shots available locally in February

eileen_harvala — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:18:31 -0600

Hennepin County and Minnesota Visiting Nurses Agency will be providing H1N1 flu shots to all children, youth and adults at the following times at Hopkins and Minnetonka locations:

Tuesday, February 2

Minnetonka: Hennepin County Ridgedale Service Center, 12601 Ridgedale Drive, 2 to 4 p.m.

Wednesday, February 10

Hopkins: ResourceWest, 915 Mainstreet, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Free Story Time & Dinner, Thursday, February 11 & March 11

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:47:38 -0600

Parents of babies (birth to 12 months). who are residents of the Hopkins School District, are invited to a free Story Time & Dinner. Come for a free meal, a chance to visit with other parents, share a story and play time with the children. Siblings are welcome. Story Time & Dinner is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Thursday, February 11, and Thursday, March 11, at Gatewood Elementary School, 14900 Gatewood Drive, Minnetonka. There is no cost to participate (a fee was incorrectly listed in the February Update newsletter). Preregistration is required. Space is limited.

Make a bowl to support Empty Bowls: sign-up for classes today

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 10:20:56 -0600

Want to support the annual Empty Bowls fund-raiser? Make a bowl in one of Hopkins Community Education's February or March classes. Teachers make it easy for all ages to learn how to make a ceramic bowl and donate it to the event.

This year's, 12th annual Empty Bowls fund-raiser for the Intercongregation Communities Association (ICA) food shelf and Resource West is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 16, at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

For addition information or to register for the classes, please visit the website.

Hopkins graduate on the 2010 Olympic Cross Country Ski Team

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 10:50:25 -0600

Garrott Kuzzy, a 2002 Hopkins High School graduate, has been named to the 2010 Olympic Cross Country Ski Team. Kuzzy, who trains with CXC Vertical Limit, is a versatile skier who excels in both sprints and distance. He won a combination of three SuperTours and Canadian NorAms and was second in the U.S. Championship freestyle sprint. At Hopkins, Garrott won the state meet with his team in 2002.

Follow Garrott's blog

Hopkins' students collect supplies for Haiti

eileen_harvala — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:27:33 -0600

Meadowbrook Elementary School's Kids & Company before- and after-school care students, and Stepping Stones preschool students collected food, clothing, supplies, and money for Haiti. The collection included $165.65, 11 boxes of clothing, four boxes of toiletries, two boxes of shoes, four boxes of food, one box of blankets and pillows, one box of stuffed animals, and one case of water.

Community dialogue on diversity starts, Tuesday, February 23

eileen_harvala — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 09:32:33 -0600

Explore the changing diversity and socioeconomic differences in our community. Hopkins Community Education is hosting a five-part, Twin Cities Public television documentary series called Close the Gap, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 23, and March 2, 9, 16, & 23, at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. People can attend one or all five of the dialogues.

Student advocates working to make tobacco-free outdoor recreation spaces

eileen_harvala — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 09:49:23 -0600

Some Hopkins junior high students are working to create tobacco-free outdoor recreation spaces. The students are part of Students Promoting Positive Actions (SPPA), which aims to increase awareness about the negative affects of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco in the Hopkins School District and community.

After-school club engages young scientists

eileen_harvala — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:59:36 -0600

An after-school club at Eisenhower Elementary School is fostering the interests of future scientists with real-world scientific experiences. The Young Scientist Club consists of 60 5th grade and 6th grade students. The students participate in monthly meetings designed to engage them in exciting and high-interest science activities.

Home Remodeling Fair, Sunday, February 28

eileen_harvala — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:38:47 -0600

The Home Remodeling Fair, featuring seminars, exhibitors, and information on home remodeling projects, is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 28, at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins.

Four Hopkins seniors participate in Rites of Passage Program

eileen_harvala — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:32:00 -0600

Four Hopkins High School seniors—DeAndre Adams, Princeton Coleman, Austin McDowell, and Jason Steele—are participating in the Minneapolis Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Rites of Passage program.

Hopkins High School’s ‘King of Pops’ Concert, February 5 & 6

eileen_harvala — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 06:31:32 -0600

Hopkins High Schools "King of Pops" Concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, February 5, and Saturday, February 6, in the auditorium at Hopkins High School, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. The concert will feature the school's junior and senior bands, the Lean Mean Performance Machine, Jazz One, and Jazz Two, and comedy, music and musical routines. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. To reserve tickets, go to the Hopkins bands' website. A limited number of tickets will be available at the door.

Hopkins’ February parenting workshops feature a variety of topics

eileen_harvala — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:40:22 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools' Community Education is offering a number of parenting workshops on a variety of different topics in February. To learn more about these classes or to register, please visit the Hopkins Community Education website.

February workshops include the following:

Hopkins students reach out to help Haiti

eileen_harvala — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:26:03 -0600

A group of 5th-graders from Hopkins' Glen Lake Elementary School packed food for Haiti for Kids against Hunger, Friday, January 22, at Mount Calvary Church in Excelsior. They also extended their fund-raising efforts school-wide.

The food-packaging event was planned before the earthquake. The 5th graders and their families made generous donations to this service-learning project. Their donations helped cover the cost of the food ingredients.

Early Childhood offers February/March classes

eileen_harvala — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:14:54 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools Early Childhood is offering a number of family education classes in February and March.

Classes include the following:

Free softball clinics offered in February

eileen_harvala — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:48:58 -0600

Hopkins High School Girls Softball Coach Anne Campbell and a crew of her varsity players are offering free softball clinics in February. Individual and group instruction will include fielding, throwing, base running, hitting, and bunting. The clinics are open to Hopkins Public Schools' girls in kindergarten through 7th grade. Girls with abilities and experience levels are welcome. The clinics are from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, February 6, 20, & 27, in the gym at Hopkins North Junior High, 10700 Cedar Lake Road, Minnetonka.

Applications now being accepted for 2010-2011 AVID program

eileen_harvala — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:04:15 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools' college preparatory AVID program (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is now accepting applications for the 2010-11 school year.

AVID is a class offered at 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades (and 8th grade at Hopkins North Junior High) that provides instruction and support in academic skills such as higher level thinking, inquiry and collaboration, staying organized, taking notes, taking tests, and communicating with teachers.

Please download the application below.

Twenty-two Hopkins students earn prestigious art awards

eileen_harvala — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 19:18:17 -0600

Twenty-two Hopkins students earned honors in the Minnesota Scholastic Art Awards, including nine students who earned 12 prestigious Gold Key and Silver Key awards.

Gold Key

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

Calli Kohout-Bevins (jewelry),
Sarah Snyder (jewelry, and art portfolio), and
Natalie Wolf (ceramics and glass, and art portfolio).

Silver Key

Silver Key winners include:

Hopkins Public Schools joins Race to the Top

eileen_harvala — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:37:30 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools is among the more than 300 Minnesota public school districts and charter schools to submit a Race to the Top memorandum of agreement to the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE).

Hopkins earns District Award of Distinction

eileen_harvala — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:03:09 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools has received the Minnesota School Boards Association's (MSBA) District Award of Distinction, an honor that recognizes Hopkins' superintendent and school board members for their commitment to good governance through board training. Hopkins was one of eight districts in the state to receive the prestigious award this year.

Hopkins moves forward with emergency management planning

eileen_harvala — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:54:16 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools continues to make progress on the Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools (REMS) grant that it received last summer for the U.S. Department of Education. Currently, the district is conducting site surveys and vulnerability assessments at all of its schools and facilities. Staff members are also reviewing school culture and environment mitigation and prevention strategies.

Hopkins shares expertise at Minnesota School Boards Association conference

linda_wareham — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:20:19 -0600

Hopkins staff members, school board members, and students shared their expertise in technology, financial planning, and school board governance at the Minnesota School Boards Association annual Leadership Conference.

Two Hopkins students receive ‘Triple A’ award

eileen_harvala — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:39:00 -0600

Two Hopkins seniors, Rachel Stearns and Robert "Bobby" Meller III, have been honored by the Minnesota State High School League with the Triple A award for their outstanding accomplishments in academics, arts, and athletics. These two students will now be considered for the Region 6AA Triple A award and, if chosen, will then be candidates for the state award.

Saturday Open Gym (ages 0-5)

eileen_harvala — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:07:28 -0600

Open Gym at the Harley Hopkins Family Center gives parents and children a place to move and play. The entire class is devoted to parent/child activities in the gym and classroom. Open Gym classes are drop-in classes. The cost is $5 per session per child, $2.50 for each additional sibling. Registration must be made 24 hours prior to the date of attendance by calling the Harley Hopkins Family Center at 952-988-5000. Sibling care is not available. Open Gyms are scheduled for 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, through March 20, at the Harley Hopkins Family Center, 125 Monroe Ave. S., Hopkins.

Hopkins High School Trap Shooting Club accepting registrations

eileen_harvala — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:41:30 -0600

Registrations for the 2010 Hopkins High School Trap Shooting Club are now being accepted. Applications are available online. The application deadline is Friday, January 29. Club enrollment will be limited to 40 members.

A firearms safety course will be offered at Hopkins High School for students interested in becoming a club member who have not completed a firearms safety course.

New and returning school board members take the oath of office; officers re-elected

eileen_harvala — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:35:14 -0600

The oath of office was administered to one returning Hopkins School Board member and two new board members, Thursday, January 7. Betsy Scheurer began her second four-year term on the Hopkins School Board, and new members Warren Goodroad and Susan Wootten began their four-term term after taking the oaths of office.

At the same meeting, board members re-elected Yvonne Selcer to serve as board chair, Ellen Dustman to serve as vice chair, and Wendy Donovan to serve as treasurer.

Meadowbrook preschoolers and kindergartners make placemats

eileen_harvala — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:49:33 -0600

As a service project, Meadowbrook Stepping Stones and KinderConnection recently made placemats for Meals on Wheels. The placemats were dropped off at a local Meals on Wheels just before the holidays and were delivered to seniors with their meals over the holidays.

Congressman Erik Paulsen honors Stoflet on the House floor

eileen_harvala — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:45:58 -0600

Statement to the House of Representatives
Representative Erik Paulsen
Wednesday, January 12, 2009

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Barbara Stoflet-a teacher at Gatewood Elementary School in Minnetonka. At a recent White House ceremony, Barbara was awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching-the nation's highest honor for teaching in those fields.

WCCO High School Sports Rally at Hopkins High, Friday, January 15

eileen_harvala — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 14:09:01 -0600

WCCO TV's High School Sports Rally is coming to Hopkins High School, Friday, January 15, covering all the action from the girls basketball game against Edina. Watch the broadcast live at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tune in at 10:20 p.m. for highlights from the game and be inspired by the stories that come from our high school and community.

District works hard to restore its financial stability

eileen_harvala — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:31:33 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools' Citizens Financial Advisory Committee (CFAC) recently presented its annual report to the Hopkins School Board. The committee is comprised of community volunteers with extensive financial backgrounds, and the committee's goal is to review the district's financial planning and reporting information and provide feedback to the school board.

This year's report recognizes that Hopkins Public Schools has rebuilt its fund balance over the past few years, and has developed the planning tools necessary to operate effectively during challenging times.

Financial advisory committee makes recommendations for budget development

eileen_harvala — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 11:44:43 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools' Citizens Financial Advisory Committee (CFAC) has reviewed the district's financial position and made recommendations for the Hopkins School Board to consider as it develops the district's 2010-11 budget.

CFAC is one of the district's long-standing advisory committees. It is comprised of residents with financial experience and expertise.

Financial advisory committee makes recommendations for budget development

eileen_harvala — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 12:00:29 -0600

CFAC is one of the district's long-standing advisory committees. It is comprised of residents with financial experience and expertise.

2010 platform presented to district legislators

eileen_harvala — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 16:25:29 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools' Legislative Action Coalition recently presented its 2010 legislative platform to the district's legislators. Cablecasts of that presentation can be seen on:

Hopkins Public Schools Community Education offers parent education classes

eileen_harvala — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:12:48 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools Community Education is offering a number of upcoming parent education classes. To learn more about these classes or to register, please visit the Hopkins Community Education website.

Young at Heart community dance, Friday, February 12

eileen_harvala — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 11:10:20 -0600

A Young at Heart community dance is scheduled for Friday, February 12, in the Oakwoods Room at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins.

Char Torkelson will provide a free dance lesson from 6:15 p.m. to 7 p.m., followed by the dance from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Paul Heffron and his Variety Dance Band will provide an evening of dancing fun ranging from Big Band to Rock and Roll. Heffron has more than 24 years of experience playing ballrooms, dance clubs, and special events.

Hopkins Education Foundation invites community to ‘Party Forward’

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:23:38 -0600

The Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) invites community members to attend its 2010 "Party Forward-The Royal Bash" with honorary chairs, Hopkins junior high principals Pat Schmidt and Terry Wolfson.

The party will be held, Saturday, February 20, at the Minneapolis Marriott Southwest in Minnetonka. To purchase tickets, and to learn more about the HEF, visit its website. This year's Royal attendees will find many new elements this year including a more casual flair, hometown venue, and a lower ticket price.

Hopkins teacher receives national honor at the White House

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 13:39:14 -0600

Barbara Stoflet, a 6th-grade teacher at Gatewood Elementary School, received a prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching from President Obama at the White House, Wednesday, January 6. Stoflet had the honor of introducing the President at the awards ceremony.

Caring Youth Award nominations due, Friday, Feb. 5

eileen_harvala — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 14:56:25 -0600

Nominations are being sought for the 2010 Caring Youth Award, which is given to young people who show an ongoing awareness of other through volunteering or other activities.

Nominees must meet at least one of the following criteria:

Hopkins presents legislative platform to legislators, Tuesday, January 5

eileen_harvala — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:23:59 -0600

Community members are invited to Hopkins Public Schools Legislative Action Coalition's presentation of the 2010 legislative platform to the district's legislators. The pre-legislative session forum is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, January 5, at the Eisenhower Community Center, 1001 Highway 7, Hopkins. Information about the 2010 platform is available on the school district's website.

Hopkins Public Schools sets payable 2010 tax levy

eileen_harvala — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 06:44:03 -0600

After a public hearing and soliciting input from district taxpayers, Hopkins Public Schools set its payable 2010 tax levy at $38.973,978.19, Thursday, December 17.

The levy includes the following components:

Look for your Winter/Spring 2010 Adult & Youth catalogs

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

Winter/Spring Adult Enrichment classes are currently online, or look for your Winter/Spring catalog in the mail in early January. Classes range from art to cooking to fitness to money. Check out more than 150 classes today, and try something new!

Third Hopkins teacher becomes a Google Certified Teacher

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:00:28 -0600

David Freeburg, a social studies teacher at Hopkins North Junior High, has become a Google Certified Teacher after participating in the Google Learning Academy. He is the third Hopkins teacher to earn this honor. Benjamin Friesen, an 8th grade Earth science teacher at Hopkins West Junior High, and Sean Beaverson, who teaches language arts in the area learning center at Hopkins West Junior High, are also Google Certified Teachers.

Google Certified Teachers are:

2010-11 and 2011-12 school calendars adopted

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:58:34 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools' 2010-11 and 2011-12 school calendars have been adopted, and there are some important changes, including the, Monday, August 30, start of the 2010-11 school year.

Register now for GED or English language classes

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:03:55 -0600

Is 2010 the year to complete your high school education by earning the General Educational Development (GED) degree? Registration for Adult Options in Education's classes in the new year is open. Weekday classes will re-start on Monday, January 4, 2010, at Eisenhower Community Center in Hopkins, the Minnetonka Community Education Center in Minnetonka, and the Central Community Center and Lenox Community Center in St. Louis Park.

Hopkins School Board adopts 2010 legislative platform

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:20:35 -0600

The Hopkins School Board has adopted the district's 2010 legislative platform, which was developed by the district's Legislative Action Coalition with input from district administrators and insights from other school district lobbying organizations.

Beliefs

The foundation of the legislative platform is a set of beliefs

Whereas, Hopkins Public Schools' Legislative Action Coalition (LAC) believes that:

Prospective students invited to January open houses, tours, and information nights

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 11:13:08 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools is hosting January open houses, tours, and information nights for prospective students. Activities include:

Register now for winter-spring early childhood family education classes

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:07:24 -0600

Registrations are currently being accepted for Hopkins Public Schools' winter-spring 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 run from January through May, and 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.

Hopkins Public Schools settles two-year teachers’ contract

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:30:29 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools and the Hopkins Education Association (HEA) finalized a two-year contract, effective from July 1, 2009, through June 30, 2011, for Hopkins' licensed teachers. The contract covers the 2009-10, and 2010-11 school years.

Two Hopkins teachers honored for using technology to enhance student learning

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 13:56:07 -0600

Two Hopkins teachers have received awards for modeling best practices in using technology in their classroom and engaging students in learning. Sean Beaverson, who teaches language arts in the alternative learning center at Hopkins West Junior High, and Kim Mach, a 4th grade teacher at L.H. Tanglen Elementary School, have been honored as 2009 TIES Exceptional Teachers. They were among 66 teachers from 33 school districts chosen by their superintendents for TIES Exceptional Teacher recognition because of their use of technology.

Hopkins Education Foundation awards grants to school district programs

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:12:41 -0600

The Hopkins Education Foundation recently award $37,385 to innovative programs in Hopkins Public Schools. The grants include:

Hopkins Public Schools receives positive report on 2008-09 audit

eileen_harvala — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:32:33 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools has received another positive report on its annual audit. LarsonAllen LLP, the independent auditors for Hopkins Public Schools, presented the positive report to the Hopkins School Board on December 17.

The audit of the school district's financial records for the budget year that ended June 30, 2009, 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.

Hopkins High School named one of the top-performing high schools in the nation

eileen_harvala — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:44:31 -0600

Hopkins High School has been named one of the top-performing high schools in the nation in a report on America's Best High Schools released by U.S. News and World Report.

About the honor

The America's Best High Schools project is an annual report that identifies the country's top-performing high schools. The goal is to provide a clear, unbiased picture of how well public schools serve all of their students in preparing them to demonstrate proficiency in basic skills as well as readiness for college-level work.

Essential Skills Certificate Program recognizes English language gains by adults

eileen_harvala — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:30:09 -0600

Yadira Altamirano, an English language student studying at Adult Options in Education's Hopkins site, recently was recognized for her accomplishments learning the English language. Adult Options in Education is issuing Essential Skills certificates to students who have reached pre-determined performance levels in English reading and listening skills. Altamirano earned her certificate for listening skills.

Hopkins West Knowledge Masters team earns top honors

eileen_harvala — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:01:58 -0600

A team of 28 Hopkins West Junior High (HWJH) students, in 7th grade through 9th grade, earned first place in Minnesota and fourth place internationally in the 53rd Knowledge Masters Open.

Notification of school closings, late starts, and other emergencies

eileen_harvala — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:21:33 -0600

Our Connect-ED® message system is our primary notification tool if winter storms or other emergencies cause us 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.

Student filmmaker helps create Usher video

eileen_harvala — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:05:01 -0600

Jack Anderson, a senior at Hopkins High School, was part of a team of students that produced a video for Usher. Nineteen teenagers from around the country created, directed, filmed, edited, and produced two videos for Usher's new single. Jack won the opportunity to do this project based on an essay he wrote for the Body by Milk got noise? contest last winter. He was selected from more than 5,000 applicants.

National Honor Society students collect food, make mittens

eileen_harvala — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:11:03 -0600

Hopkins High School's chapter of the National Honor Society sponsored a school-wide food drive in November and collected 790 pounds of food that the students delivered to the local Intercongregation Communities Association (ICA) food shelf.

In addition, 33 National Honor Society students and friends spent a Saturday afternoon in November working at the Chanhassen site of Feed My Starving Children, where they packed 11,880 meals that will feed 33 children for an entire year.

Spirit Shop Saturday sales, December 5, 12, & 19

eileen_harvala — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:13:40 -0600

The Hopkins High School Spirit Shop will have Saturday sales from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on December 5, 12 and 19. In addition to a variety of Hopkins spirit merchandise, special items will be on sale such as classic grey hoodies for $30 and short sleeve T-shirts, three for $25 (while supplies last). The Spirit Shop is located on the first floor of the high school, next to the Lindbergh Center, 2400 Lindbergh Drive, Minnetonka. The phone number is 952.988.4551.

Technology helps students learn and teachers teach

eileen_harvala — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:35:22 -0600

During a recent social studies class, Hopkins North Junior High teacher David Freeburg used an electronic interactive whiteboard, a digital clip from a movie, and digital photos to illustrate a lesson on research. Then he engaged the students even further by asking questions that they answered by using hand-held wireless response devices. He could tell how each student answered each question, and the class could see all of the responses as well. Everyone participated.

Potpourri Art Exhibit features adult artists

eileen_harvala — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:25:04 -0600

The annual Potpourri Exhibit art exhibition of works created by Hopkins Community Education Adult Enrichment teachers and their students opens, Thursday, December 3, at the Hopkins Center for the Arts. The Hopkins Center for the Arts is located at 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

Exhibit items range from drawings to felted fiber art, photography, ceramics, and oil, watercolor and acrylic paintings.

Hopkins Kids & Company children create 'breakfast bags'

donna_adams — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:30:06 -0600

Each month throughout the year, the children in Kids & Company, Hopkins Public Schools' school-aged childcare program, have helped provide the Ronald McDonald House with "breakfast bags," with the six school sites rotating to assemble the bags supported by donations from families in the program.

Aerobic exercise equipment donations needed for pilot project

donna_adams — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:25:15 -0600

Hopkins West Junior High School is seeking new or used exercise equipment to outfit a special Goals Lab supervised study hall in the school.

Students selected to participate in this pilot project will exercise vigorously for 20-30 minutes just prior to working on their most rigorous academic subjects. Research supports the notion that cognitive abilities and attention are boosted for 60-90 minutes after vigorous exercise.

Concert Choir Festival to be held Nov. 30 at Hopkins High School

donna_adams — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:31:01 -0600

The Hopkins High School Concert Choir, together with the Hopkins West Junior High Concert Choir and the Hopkins North Junior High Concert Choir, will present a concert at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 30 in the Hopkins High School Auditorium. Hopkins High School's male and female á cappella ensembles, GEOFF! and Midori, also will perform. Tickets will be available at the door for $7 for adults and $4 for students and senior citizens. Hopkins High School is located at 2400 Lindbergh Drive in Minnetonka.

Hopkins High School students win top award in College in the Schools competition

donna_adams — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:30:32 -0600

A team from Hopkins High School’s College in the Schools (CIS) Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology course has been awarded the first-place Golden Femur Trophy for their video “Blood Cells Rock.” The video was selected from more than 30 videos submitted by students enrolled in the course at 10 high schools in the metro area and outstate.

H1N1 flu vaccine clinic to be held at Hopkins High School on Wed., Nov. 18

donna_adams — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:10:11 -0600

Hopkins High School has been announced as a site for an H1N1 flu vaccine clinic for children ages 6 months through 9 years on Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 3:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The clinic, one of several sites announced in Hennepin County, will be held in the "old gyms" at the east end of the building. Visitors to the clinic should park in the main lot off Lindbergh Drive and enter the building through the school's main front doors.

HHS culinary team cooks up donations

donna_adams — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:23:59 -0600

The student chefs on Hopkins High School's ProStart culinary competition team prepared the appetizers, dinner, and dessert for a ResourceWest fundraiser this fall that brought in over $13,000.

ELL advisory committee hosts family event

donna_adams — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:20:49 -0600

The Hopkins English Language Learner Family Advisory Committee (EFAC) had its first event on Sunday, Nov. 1, when more than 60 people, including parents, family members, students, teachers, and friends, packed an overflowing Fireside Room at Hopkins High School to share an internationally eclectic potluck lunch.

Bookfair scheduled for Dec. 5

donna_adams — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:34:15 -0600

Hopkins West and Hopkins North Junior High Schools will be holding a fundraiser at the Barnes & Noble Booksellers store at Ridgehaven Mall from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5.

On that day a portion of the store's proceeds will be given to the schools to purchase books needed for their classrooms and library media centers. Vouchers are available on West's and North's websites (see below for a link to West's voucher) that must be turned in with book purchases, or the school's name needs to be mentioned prior to the purchases being rung up.

Improvements to emergency response plans underway

donna_adams — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:05:40 -0600

Hopkins Public Schools is moving forward with implementation of the Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools (REMS) grant received last summer from the U.S. Department of Education.

Hopkins' Chinese immersion program featured on Channel 12 news

donna_adams — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:31:06 -0600

XinXing Academy, Hopkins Public Schools' Chinese immersion program, was featured on Channel 12's news broadcast on Tuesday, Nov. 10. The story, "Local district a leader in Chinese immersion" included video of student lessons and information about a five-year $1.4 million grant Hopkins received to further enhance the program.

You can read the transcript of the story here.

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:

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.

School Board Election Results

linda_wareham — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:12:24 -0600

These are unofficial results directly from the Hennepin County website.

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.

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.

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.

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

Hopkins Public Schools' public tax levy hearing is set for 6 p.m. on Thursday, December 17, and residents are invited to provide their input at the hearing, via email, or via telephone. The Hopkins School Board is scheduled to adopt the district's final levy that same evening during its regularly scheduled meeting, which begins at 7 p.m.

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."

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

Soup with the Superintendent at Hopkins West Junior High, Tuesday, January 12

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

Soup, sandwich, and conversation with the superintendent are on the agenda for Soup with the Superintendent gatherings planned for the 2009-10 school year. The next session, for junior high parents, is scheduled for Tuesday, January 12, at Hopkins West Junior High, 3830 Baker Road, Minnetonka.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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)

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.

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

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.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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 receives major grant to improve emergency response plan

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

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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, 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.

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.

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.

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:

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' 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.

New principal hired for Eisenhower Elementary School

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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:

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.:

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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 . . .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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?

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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."