School news of the week: End-of-the-year edition

Amazing things happen in our schools every day — if you know where to look! Do you know some school news others would love? Let us know at [email protected].

While school was ending citywide, Sioux Falls Lutheran marked a beginning with this official ribbon-cutting for its new school.

Hayward Elementary was one of four schools in Sioux Falls to host an intern from a Spanish-speaking country. Laura de la Calva is a primary education and kindergarten teacher who came here from Palencia, Spain. She and the other interns gave students and staff the opportunity to learn about the cultures, teaching styles, traditions and dialects of the different Hispanic countries.

Congratulations to the George McGovern Middle School library, which is led by teacher-librarian Sherri Wolles. It was awarded the 21st Century School Library Award and recognized as Exemplary Status. The South Dakota State Library, a division of the state Department of Education, recognizes schools with libraries that meet the characteristics of a 21st century school library through its place, professional and program.

Kristine Dykstra’s first grade students were crowned with the John Harris Elementary Hurricane HERO trophy for earning the most Hurricane HERO slips this school year. Students earn slips by being Helpful, showing Excellence, having Respect and taking Ownership as part of the school’s Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports. Dykstra’s class earned 7,093 slips. As a building, John Harris Elementary students earned 128,976 slips.

Wow, what a talent. Jefferson High School freshman Isabelle Hastings was named the winner of the 2022 Congressional Art Competition for South Dakota. ​Hastings’ acrylic painting, “Blushing,” received the top ranking from the South Dakota Arts Council. The artwork will be on exhibit for the next year in the Cannon Tunnel at the U.S. Capitol along with the winning artwork from other congressional districts.

The library at Terry Redlin Elementary was turned into Camp Terry Redlin to end the year. Students enjoyed drawing, fly swatting I-Spy, fishing for letters, reading by the “fire,” building, word searches and Memory.

Here are some fun Field Day scenes from R.F. Pettigrew Elementary.

Here’s a look at end-of-the-year fun at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary.

And finally, never underestimate the impact a year in school can make. These self-portraits are by kindergartners at Eugene Field Elementary. From the beginning of school to the end, look at the growth reflected in their work.

Thanks to all who have given our kids another incredible year!