5th Grader Making a Difference!

Last week, Kare 11 featured a news story on a Falcon Ridge 5th grader who has gone above and beyond to make a difference for an area family that he doesn't even know. Billy Dopp is in 5th grade in Mrs. Kluegel's class-check out the story below, which ran on December 23rd. Great job Billy!

Billy Dopp-KARE11 Story

Happy Holidays from Falcon Ridge!

I'm hoping that everyone is enjoying their time away from school, and has been able to spend time with both friends and family. Enjoy the Falcon Ridge version of "Twas the Night Before Christmas", which was shown at an all school meeting the week before our break.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-dB7ywaEws&index=1&list=PLW6Jme-eryP_wXvtxPRcEKW4l7l-81_rY

ECFE Update

NPAS Can Help Your Child Succeed in Kindergarten

Preschool registration for fall 2015 will take place in January and early February.  We offer preschool classes at the Central Education Campus (CEC) in New Prague, Early Childhood Center (ECC) in New Prague, and Eagle View Elementary (EV) in New Market.  A one night per week preschool is held at the CEC on Monday nights.   

NEW in 2015-2016 - longer sessions, extended day preschool, and a four classes per week option.  Choices are location specific.  All classes can include the Kids' Company W.R.A.P Program. This program is designed for children who are one year away from Kindergarten and are enrolled in one of the district preschool classes.  The Kids' Company W.R.A.P. Program is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For additional information about preschool call 952-758-1670.  For information about the Kids' Company W.R.A.P Program call Dara Schrock at 952-758-1735.

New Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) classes are starting in January;  Call 952-758-1670 for information.

Is your child age 3-5 and not attending preschool?  Do you want them to get a peek into preschool and see what it is like?  We have two different class options for you and your child.  It is a great introduction to the routines and structure of preschool.  Join in January by calling 952-758-1670. 

Science Fair Information

Turn the how into WOW! Turn questions into a project! The Elementary Science Fair is open to students in Grades 4-6 in the New Prague Area School District. The kickoff event will take place on Thursday, January 15 at 7 p.m. in the Falcon Ridge Multi-purpose Gym. Here you will get your questions answered as you learn about the steps to create a successful project, obtain the needed information (packet and forms), see examples of past projects, get ideas and purchase a board ($5). The district fair will take place on Saturday, March 7 at the New Prague Middle School from 12 noon to 3 p.m. Students will be able to have their project judged, enjoy some great science activities, and will wrap up with an inspirational award ceremony where all students will receive a ribbon and participation prize. Purple winners will have the chance to represent the New Prague District at the regional science fair in Mankato on Saturday, April 25.

Help sessions will be available where a licensed teacher will be on hand to guide you through the process. These are optional and are free, but registration on the Community Education website is appreciated. Sessions will be held at the CEC Computer Lab (enter at the Community Education door). Dates are Tuesday, January 20 (7-8 p.m.), Thursday, February 5 (5-6 p.m), Tuesday, February 17 (7-8 p.m.) and Tuesday, March 3 (7-8 p.m.). Parents are welcome to attend with their child or drop them off.   Coordinators for the fair are Cathy Ilkka from Raven Stream, Brian Triplett from Eagle View, and Jodi Prchal from Falcon Ridge. Feel free to contact them or email Jodi Prchal (District Coordinator) at jprchal@np.k12.mn.us or call 952-758-1663.

Making Your Mark!

This past week we recognized 5th grader Evelyn (Evie) Wegner with a new-and what we hope to be reoccurring-student acknowledgement. In combination with Falcon Ridge's PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) initiative, the "Making Your Mark!" award is meant to spotlight students who have gone above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others in school or in the community. 

Along with her family, Evie created a haunted house this past fall, open to the public for regular visits and scares. There was no charge for admission, only a request to donate a non-perishable food item to our local Peace Center food shelf. Through the Wegner family efforts, $1750 in cash and 1083 pounds of food were donated. Thank you Evie, for Making Your Mark!

For more on this story, see http://www.startribune.com/local/south/280683032.html

Katie McKy-Author visit

"What an incredible lady!" This was just one of many comments made in regards to author Katie McKy who entertained our entire building this past week. Her ability to tell a story, engage our students (and adults), excite them-and then quiet them down again-was unlike anything Falcon Ridge has ever experienced! McKy, who is originally from Maine also worked with about 35 students to promote their ability to write and tell a story. Her non-conventional methods kept students on the edge of their seats, and pushed their creative limits!

Veteran's Day

It was a packed house at Falcon Ridge this morning, as we honored those who have served our country. We were fortunate enough to have Sergeant Eric Madsen speak to our students and staff, listened to our New Prague High School band perform, and each of our students sang a verse in the song, "Thank You Soldiers". Our veterans were treated to coffee and cake in our staff lounge following the ceremony, and the message of 'thanks' resonated loud and clear to all those that have served. Thank you to all of our veterans, both near and far!

Kids and Social Media

We recently welcomed Claire Newman-noted child speaker-to Falcon Ridge to address student on the effects of bullying as it relates to social media. With an increasing number of children having more and more access to electronic devices, the internet, and social media sites, her message about the harmful effects of teasing were timely and relevant.


It is important that if you allow your child to have technology, be on social media etc. that you monitor it regularly! Kids at this age have a difficult time understanding how quickly they can negatively impact others. Thank You for your help as we raise our children in this new Digital Era!