School news of the week: Fun field trips, poetry champ, memorable retirements

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].

What a sweet way to wish a happy retirement. Mrs. Jarding at St. Michael Elementary was wished well by the entire school, which wore her favorite color and homemade staff badges with her picture. And then they did the same for Mr. Keith!

Sioux Falls eighth graders filled the Washington Pavilion for the 2022 Grand Slam poetry contest, and congratulations to Adane Akot of Ben Reifel Middle School — poetry champion.

Here’s a look at the competition.

Lowell Elementary fifth graders got a look at what could be their future while touring Augustana University.

Students will remember this lesson at John Harris Elementary! A first grade class had some fun in science, experiencing being in a “giant whale” and  exploring bird beaks.

First, we love this idea. Second, who else wants one of these phones? Patrick Henry Middle School teachers who signed up for “Panther Pals” at the start of the school year surprised their pal with small gifts each quarter. Last week was the big reveal when each pal received one final gift and got to see who had their name.

Here’s another fun field trip! First grade students at Garfield Elementary traveled to Stensland Family Farms near Larchwood, Iowa, to learn where dairy products come from. Students got up-close and personal with dairy cows, toured the creamery and sampled ice cream.

And students at Lowell Elementary got to go too!

And finally, how do you not smile at this? Preschoolers at St. Lambert Elementary cheer on the sixth graders at recess.