News From The Principal

Thank you parents for your generous donations to Hanawalt in 2009. The PTA purchased coats, hats, and gloves for students who needed them. We have also received great classroom games for the endless indoor recesses we are experiencing this winter! In addition, we have purchased new microscopes which should be arriving soon. Science and social studies often become secondary subjects due to the emphasis on reading and math outlined under the No Child Left Behind legislation. I believe, however, that our students must be actively learning, exploring, and investigating subjects that take us beyond the fundamentals of reading and mathematics.

Any financial donation that you make can be designated for specific projects. For example, if you are a strong supporter of the Day in the Arts, your donations may go to that line item. As always, copy paper and facial tissues are welcomed!

Preparation for our second annual science fair for 4-5th grade students is underway. Display boards are available at school for any student who needs one due to the generosity of Laura Higgins who is spearheading this project. We thank Pioneer for their donation of $250.00 to our science budget to support the science fair. Each fourth and fifth grade student has received a detailed explanation of the science fair guidelines. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Hesse or Mrs. Thomas. Participation is voluntary, but students must pre-register by January 15, 2010.

Major Changes for 2010-2011
The school board has approved the calendar for 2010-2011. Each Wednesday will be an early dismissal at 1:30. The intention is to provide professional development and collaboration time for staff.

School will begin on August 26. Other important changes: School will NOT be held on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Winter Break will be from December 23-31st with school resuming on January 3rd. The last day of school (depending on the weather, of course) will be June 2, 2011. To download the district calendar, please go to www.dmps.k12.ia.us and click on the tab for District Calendar. The calendar is also on the last page of this newsletter.

LOST and FOUND
We have an amazing assortment of hats, gloves, mittens, sweatshirts, lunch boxes, and other items in the foyer. Please stop by and claim what is yours. I wish all of you a Happy New Year!

Julia Burton - Julia.burton@dmps.k12.ia.us or call 242-8411.