Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow
Announcements: Wednesday, October 29, 2025 Today is a Day 1
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Teriyaki Chicken and Rice; Choice 2: Cheese Quesadilla
Attention Parents: The PTSO is making a meal for our staff on Parent Teacher’s conference night, Nov. 5. We are asking any family that would like to donate desserts to contact Ms. Sprecher and let her know. Thank you!
From Mrs. Newkirk and Mrs. Seehawer: Over 100 people attended the Ithaca Title I Family Reading Event on October 28, featuring an exciting presentation by Zoo Zort, organized by Andrea Newkirk and Summer Seehawer.
Noelle Bezio, a USDA-licensed animal educator, captivated families with her enthusiasm and deep knowledge of her animals. Students had the unique opportunity to see and touch a variety of creatures, including a chinchilla, armadillo, wallaby, python, and kinkajou. The evening ended with a memorable photo opportunity for every child to take a picture with the python!
Part of being a strong reader includes developing background knowledge and vocabulary—and this event did just that. Students and families learned fascinating facts about each animal and expanded their vocabulary in the process. To continue their learning, every student was able to select a book to take home at the end of the evening.
The PTSO generously provided a delicious meal prior to the presentation. A special thank you goes out to all who made this event possible. Administration: For supporting the Family Reading Night; Janitorial Staff: Frank Wastlick, Sue Meyer, Tom Walker, and Ben Murphy; Promotion: Juli Thompson and Adam Hess (social media); Translation: Mayra Masters; Photo Booth: Heather Dickey and Emeila Dickey; Photography: Juanna Miller; Setup, Serving, and Cleanup: Mrs. Sarah Dilley, Kara Steinmetz, and Hallie Steinmetz.
It was a wonderful example of the Ithaca community coming together to support literacy!
From Mrs. Deitelhoff: There will be an FCCLA meeting in Mrs. Deitelhoff's room during CAPstone today October 29th.
From Mrs. Stellner, Ms. Ernzen, and Mrs. Pluemer: Sources of Strength will meet on Thursday, October 30th, during CAPstone in the LMC.
From Mr. Klang: There is a high school girls' basketball sign-up sheet on Mr. Klang's door. If you are interested in playing this year please sign up by Friday, October 31st. There will be a girls open gym tonight and tomorrow after school until 5:30pm.
From Ms. Ernzen: There will be a Book Club Meeting during lunch in Ms. Ernzen’s room on Friday, October 31st. If you signed up to bring a treat or would like to sign up, please see Ms. Ernzen to confirm your selection.
From Mrs. Kershner: Youth Apprenticeship Students, please check your email regarding the YA Program. Important information has been listed for you to accomplish, please complete by Wednesday, November 5th, thank you.
The Ithaca School Foundation is bringing Trivia Night Back! Mark your calendars for Friday, November 7 starting at 6 PM. Cost is $10 per person. Teams of up to 8 people, and we will have room for 20 teams. Pre-register your team by contacting Ron Brisbois: brisbois1998@gmail.com or 608-732-0322. Please pay for your registration at the door. Walk-in groups will be allowed on a first-come first serve basis. There will be a silent auction - Any group or business interested in donating may contact Ron Brisbois. Concessions will be available for purchase but you may bring your own snacks as well. Proceeds will go towards the digital sign project. Hope to see you there and thank you for your support of the Ithaca Schools and Ithaca Foundation!
From Mr. Klang to Parents of 1st - 5th grades: There will be a youth basketball sign-up meeting Monday, November 10th at 6 pm in the commons. This will be for 1st-5th grade boys and girls. A parent/guardian must be there to fill out forms.
From Mrs. Pluemer: Happy Red Ribbon Week! This year’s theme is “Life Is A Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free™.” Each healthy choice you make is like a perfect puzzle piece that strengthens your future. By staying drug-free, you’re showing yourself and the world how much you value your health, community, and dreams. When you choose health and positivity, you’re putting together a masterpiece where you can aim for the stars and achieve your goals. Keep adding those bright pieces to your puzzle – we believe in you! Tomorrow’s dress up day is School Spirit.
Red Ribbon Trivia: Trivia question of the day: What is the average age at which youth experiment with drugs?