Social Studies Students of the Block

We are proud to announce our Social Studies Students of the Block for Block 3. Here are Mr. Kraft's selections.

Taylor Nordin: Having had the opportunity to evaluate Taylor on numerous projects I have consistently been impressed with her passion and depth of knowledge regarding her topics of choice. From a social science perspective Taylor specifically invites her audience into her projects as she raises questions about the logistical significance of each. Students such as Taylor are always rewarding to work with.

Kelsey Michel: Kelsey stands out as a natural student leader who always puts her best foot forward. Most recently I have been impressed with the level of knowledge that Kelsey has demonstrated during her Westward Expansion project. This multi-part project drove deeply into the interlocking connections and issues that past leaders/explorers had to juggle while strengthening and expanding the United States. It is always a pleasure to learn from students such as Kelsey and I am looking forward to what the future will bring for all of us here at NCCS.

Here are the students selected by Mrs. Moore:

Cody Freyholtz - 7^th/8^th Social Studies:

Cody improved his pre and post test scores by over 48%. He improved his work and study skills immensely during this block, and was really a leader in the class.

Aisha Fernandez - Government:

Aisha always puts her top effort into the work in Government. I can always look forward to some very intellectual insight and observations on her papers. She is quiet, but when she does have something to add to discussions, it is always profound. I appreciate her work ethic and her willingness to go above and beyond what is required!

Megan Hofteig – Government: Megan improved dramatically during this block in Government. She is a very deep thinker and could be counted on to add depth and clarity to our Paedeia Seminars. She has a gentle way of getting her own points across, while also respecting the opinions of others. I appreciate her willingness to share her thoughts and to bring others into the discussion!

12 students and two staff members from our school traveled to Moorhead yesterday (Tuesday) to help with flood relief. They were called to help a private homeowner to form a line and stack sandbags to keep the rising river from flooding their yard.

Today a whole bus load of students and adults left at 5:30 AM to help with the effort. They arrived at 9:30 - driving through a blizzard to get there. When they arrived at the coordination point, a representative asked "Are you the group from Hutchinson?" and gave Sheila Hendricks a big hug. They are so glad we are there. They are heading to an area near Shanley High School in South Fargo to begin sandbagging.

We are so proud of these volunteers who are so willing to give their time and energy to help those in need.

New Century Community Open House

We will be hosting a community Open House on Thursday, April 2nd from 6 PM - 8 PM. The public is encouraged to attend and see what Project-based learning is all about! Our Faculty and students will be on hand to give school tours, do project and video presentations and answer any questions you may have. Please come and enjoy some refreshments while taking a look at our school.

Cooperative Agreement

On Thursday evening, the 5th of March, the NCCS board of directors had a special board meeting in order to gather input on the upcoming decision as to whether or not to continue with the cooperative agreement which allows NCCS students to participate in extra curricular activities through the Hutchinson Public Schools. The cost of this program has grown considerably over the years. It is based on a formula which takes into consideration the actual costs to provide these services and then determines a per participant cost. This is then applied to the number of students in NCCS, assuming that all could participate. There is no cost for 7/8 graders. The individuals who attended Thursday's meeting provided valuable testimony for both continuing and severing the relationship. The NCCS board is very desirous of hearing input from all individuals connected with NCCS prior to a decision being made at the 18 March board of director's meeting. Please take the time to contact a board member. Your input is necessary in order for the board to make an informed decision.