
On May 16th, the fourth grade journeyed to Madison to visit the Wisconsin State Capitol to learn how our government works. After the Capitol tour, students headed to the UW Geology Museum to learn about Wisconsin minerals and fossils and the pride of Richland County, the Boaz Mastodon.





It was a BIRTHDAY BASH! Each year, Ithaca Elementary sets aside one day to collectively celebrate our Bulldogs' birthdays. This year's celebration was another success enjoyed by our Elementary Bulldogs.











State Qualifiers! Congratulations to the Ithaca/Weston Track & Field team state qualifiers who are advancing from last night's Lancaster Sectional Meet.
Tristen Peterson placed 3rd in the Long Jump, setting a new school record with a jump of 17'2.5". She also placed 4th in the 100m Hurdles, setting a new school record with a time of 16.96s.
Kaylee Peterson placed 2nd in the 800m run, setting a new school record with a time of 2:18.80.
All the Ithaca/Weston athletes at the meet competed very well, reaching or beating personal bests. Congratulations to you all on a very successful season.
The 2023 WIAA State Track and Field Championships are on Friday and Saturday, June 2nd and 3rd. Tickets are ONLY available ONLINE. To purchase tickets or see the meet schedule, use the link below.
https://www.wiaawi.org/Sports/Spring/Boys-Track-Field/Tournament#51061277-state




Brewer Public Library in Richland Center is offering many kid, teen, and family events and programs over the summer. Everything is free, and you do not even need a library card to participate. We hope to see you at the public library this summer!


Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow
Announcements: Fri, May 26, 2023
Today is a Day 2
Lunch for today - First Choice: Quesadilla, Second Choice: Philly Chicken/Sub Bun, Green Beans, Peaches, WG Dinner Roll, Milk
Congratulations to all the Ithaca/Weston athletes on a successful meet last night at the Lancaster Sectional. A special congratulations to Tristen Peterson who will be competing at the State Track and Field meet next Friday and Saturday in the 100m hurdles and long jump, and to Kaylee Peterson who will be competing in the 800m run. They both set new school records last night in those events.
There will be an informational volleyball meeting in the LMC during ATTACK today. If you will be in 9-12th grade next fall and are planning to play volleyball, please attend this discussion. Important information will be given out regarding Summer League, Camps, Open Gyms, and preparation for the Fall season. Any questions, please reach out to Angie Young.
From Ms Schoen:
Teaching assistants-turn in this week’s and any past week’s work logs today. Thank you for working so well in the elementary classrooms. Your service is appreciated and extremely helpful.
From Ms Durkin:
Tonight is the night! The Senior Class and the Student Council will be hosting a Senior Farewell Dance today in the commons from 8-11pm. ALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE WELCOME! The price for admission is free BUT we are accepting donations for the Newkirk Family as a free will offering. The dance is a casual dance so come as you are and have fun! Same rules apply for any non-Ithaca student attending the dance.
From the FFA:
Thank you to all who came out and supported the FFA greenhouse! We still have many beautiful 12" baskets, bedding plants and planters. This is the last week of the greenhouse being open. We will be open Sat, May 27 from 9am-1 pm, or contact Ms Sprecher to make an appointment to shop. Support Ithaca FFA by purchasing your hanging flower baskets and bedding plants from our greenhouse.
From Track coaches:
Athletes should turn in their washed uniforms by Tuesday or Wednesday next week. Place clean uniforms in a bag with your name on it and turn it in.
From Ms. Loven and Sources of Strength Team:
Did you know that about half of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life? May is Mental Health Month - please join us to spread Mental Health Awareness by wearing green on Wed, May 31.
From Ms. Schmitt:
Do you want to act on stage and shine in the spotlight? Community Players has the show for you! CP is producing “Heidi” this summer, and needs YOU to audition! Roles for children of all ages, and NO EXPERIENCE is needed! Auditions will be Tue, May 30 and Wed, May 31 at 6:00 pm in the downtown auditorium. Questions? Email communityplayersswwi@gmail.com or talk to Ms. Schmitt!
From Ms Schoen:
YOUniversity staff (summer school) are seeking student helpers in grades 8-11 during the weeks of summer school, June 12-23. Please see Ms Schoen if interested. Volunteer hours available.
From the PTSO:
We have 14 elementary/middle school yearbooks left. If you missed the deadline and are interested in one, please email hilbsam@ithaca.k12.wi.us. The price is $15 per yearbook.
From Mrs. Wipperfurth:
On behalf of the Ithaca Playground Committee, we would like to thank everyone for helping make our brick fundraiser a success over the past couple years. This will be our final call for brick sales! Please take this opportunity to commemorate your child’s upcoming graduation, represent your graduating class from years past, honor a loved one, represent your business, and/or leave your legacy in any way you choose. Orders can be placed online at https://www.thatsmybrick.com/ithacawi. The order deadline is Fri, Jun 2. If you have questions, please reach out to Brittany Penfield at brittany.penfield@ithaca.k12.wi.us. Bricks will be ordered this summer and will be placed behind the school near the patio prior to the 2023-2024 school year. Thanks again for your support!
Word of the day: Arboreal (ahr-BOR-ee-ul) is a literary term that means “of or relating to trees.” It can also mean “living in or often found in trees,” as in “arboreal monkeys.” Despite taking weekly hikes on the same trail, she never ceases to be amazed by the forest’s arboreal beauty.
This Day in History: The first copies of the classic vampire novel Dracula, by Irish writer Bram Stoker, appear in London bookshops on May 26, 1897. Stoker would go on to publish 17 novels in all, but it was his 1897 novel Dracula that eventually earned him literary fame and became known as a masterpiece of Victorian-era Gothic literature. Written in the form of diaries and journals of its main characters, Dracula is the story of a vampire who makes his way from Transylvania—a region of Eastern Europe now in Romania—to Yorkshire, England, and preys on innocents there to get the blood he needs to live.
Birthdays:
Elementary: none
MS/HS: none

Here is our May Newsletter from Julie Severance, Ithaca Farm to School Specialist. Enjoy!






Here is the sign-up for summer band lessons! Lessons will take place during the weeks of August 14-18 and August 21-25. You will be expected to attend both weeks - if this is an issue, please let Mr. Crawford know at josiah.crawford@ithaca.k12.wi.us.
Thanks!
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bGMxUzvecwuiG_bCnnyuztoJ7o9nw7mFrJhAnEWPFdY/edit?usp=sharing

Ithaca Youth Apprenticeship Student Spotlight...connecting students to career opportunities! The YA Program is a 1 or 2 yr program that gives Juniors & Seniors the chance to explore a career of their interest. Students will earn credit & wages while gaining career pathway experience under the guidance of a mentor. Over the next couple weeks we will showcase this year's Ithaca Youth Apprenticeship students! For more information about the program please contact our Youth Apprenticeship Career Coach: Monica Kershner 608-585-2311 / monica.kershner@ithaca.k12.wi.us
Ithaca High School Youth Apprenticeship students in the Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics pathway are Matthew Roh, senior, and Alex Evans, Emma Coy, and Braeden Freestone, juniors.





As part of the Elementary School end-of-the-year celebrations, Mrs Schoen and the 4K-2nd grade staff hosted a Fun Day for their students! Our Bulldogs enjoyed games, sidewalk chalk drawing, time on the playground, and other exciting activities. It was a great day to celebrate all the year's successes!


Author of the popular "National Park Mysteries" series, Aaron Johnson zoomed with Ithaca 6th grade students in Mrs. Zorea's Reading Class in the Library. During the Zoom meeting, Mr. Johnson answered questions, led students through a quiz about our National Parks, and read the first chapter of his upcoming book. Many 6th grade students read these books this school year, and it was special experience to meet one of their favorite authors. Thank you, Aaron Johnson!



Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow
Announcements: Thur, May 25, 2023
Today is a Day 1
Lunch for today - First Choice: Chicken & Gravy, Second Choice: BBQ Rib, Cooked Carrots, Mixed Fruit, Biscuits, Sub Bun, Yogurt, Milk
From Track Coaches:
Today is the Sectional meet at Lancaster! Good luck today! Come cheer on the Ithaca/Weston athletes. Field events start at 3:00, and running events start at 3:45.
From Mr. Herbst:
There will be a meeting for all high school students today during ATTACK time in the commons. We will discuss the semester exam schedule and its modifications from first semester and previous years.
From Ms. Bevan:
Today students in grades 8-11 will be completing High School Scheduling with teachers from 8 a.m.-9 a.m. Please make sure your colored registration sheet is here and signed by your parent/guardian that morning. After meeting with teachers, your sheet should be turned into Ms. Bevan. If you have questions/concerns about your schedule for next year, please see Ms Bevan or Mrs. Kershner before Thursday morning. Seniors will not have to arrive until 8:55a.m. on Thursday.
There will be an informational volleyball meeting in the LMC during Attack on Friday, May 26. If you will be in 9-12th grade next fall and are planning to play volleyball, please attend this discussion. Important information will be given out regarding Summer League, Camps, Open Gyms, and preparation for the Fall season. Any questions, please reach out to Angie Young.
From Ms. Stocks
Attention Juniors, we will have a class meeting this Friday, May 26 during breakfast in the gym.
From Ms Durkin:
The Senior Class and the Student Council will be hosting a Senior Farewell Dance next Fri, May 26 in the commons from 8-11 pm. ALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE WELCOME! The price for admission is free BUT we are accepting donations for the Newkirk Family as a free will offering. The dance is a casual dance so come as you are and have fun! Same rules apply for any non-Ithaca student attending the dance.
From the FFA:
Thank you to all who came out and supported the FFA greenhouse! We still have many beautiful 12-inch baskets, bedding plants and planters. This will be the last week of the greenhouse being open. If you can’t come on Saturday, contact Ms. Sprecher to set up a time to come shop. We will be open Sat, May 27 from 9 am - 1 pm. We will also sell by appointment. Support Ithaca FFA by purchasing your hanging flower baskets and bedding plants from our greenhouse.
From Ms. Schmitt:
Do you want to act on stage and shine in the spotlight? Community Players has the show for you! CP is producing “Heidi” this summer, and needs YOU to audition! There are roles for children of all ages, and NO EXPERIENCE is needed! Auditions will be Tue, May 30 and Wed, May 31 at 6:00 pm in the downtown auditorium. Questions? Email communityplayersswwi@gmail.com or talk to Ms. Schmitt!
From Middle School Football:
There is a sign up sheet outside the office for students entering 6-8th grade interested in playing middle school football.
From Ms Schoen:
YOUniversity staff (summer school) are seeking student helpers in grades 8-11 during the weeks of summer school, June 12-23. Please see Ms Schoen if interested. Volunteer hours available.
From the PTSO:
We have 6 elementary/middle school yearbooks left. If you missed the deadline and are interested in one, please email hilbsam@ithaca.k12.wi.us. The price is $15 per yearbook.
From Mrs. Wipperfurth:
On behalf of the Ithaca Playground Committee, we would like to thank everyone for helping make our brick fundraiser a success over the past couple years. This will be our final call for brick sales! Please take this opportunity to commemorate your child’s upcoming graduation, represent your graduating class from years past, honor a loved one, represent your business, and/or leave your legacy in any way you choose. Orders can be placed online at https://www.thatsmybrick.com/ithacawi. The order deadline is Friday, June 2nd. If you have questions, please reach out to Brittany Penfield at brittany.penfield@ithaca.k12.wi.us. Bricks will be ordered this summer and will be placed behind the school near the patio prior to the 2023-2024 school year. Thanks again for your support!
Word of the day: Hobbyhorse usually refers to a topic that someone dwells on, returning to again and again, especially in conversation. // The so-called “Curse of the Bambino” was a favorite hobbyhorse of my Red Sox-loving grandfather until the team finally won the World Series in 2004.
This Day in History: Four years after the United States won its independence from England, 55 state delegates, including George Washington, James Madison and Benjamin Franklin, convene in Philadelphia to compose a new U.S. constitution on May 25, 1787.
Birthdays:
Elementary: none
MS/HS: none

Good Luck to the Ithaca/Weston Track and Field athletes that are competing at the Lancaster Sectional Meet tonight! Field events begin at 3:00pm and running at 3:45pm. Individual event athletes that qualified to compete are Tristen Peterson in the 100m and 300m hurdles as well as the long jump, Alivia Koch in the 200m dash, and Kaylee Peterson in the 800m and 3200m run, and Clayton Lee in the 1600m and 3200m run. Ithaca/Weston relay teams that are also competing are: the girls 4X800m relay of Maggie Kershner, Abby Wiedenfeld, Martina Olson, Emma Coy, and Marie Dunow; the 4X200m relay of Kaylee Miller, Alivia, Maggie, Aubri Koch, and Marie; and the 4X100m relay of Tristen, Aubri, Kaylee, Kaylee, Alivia, and Maggie.








Brewer Public Library Children's Librarian, Stacy Pilla, visited Ithaca Elementary School today! Students were excited to learn about the summer reading program, and reading prizes that are available over the summer. The library also hosts many free programs and activities. To learn more, visit Brewer Public Library in Richland Center, or visit their website at: https://www.richlandcenterwi.gov/library


Ithaca Youth Apprenticeship Student Spotlight...connecting students to career opportunities! The YA Program is a 1 or 2 yr program that gives Juniors & Seniors the chance to explore a career of their interest. Students will earn credit & wages while gaining career pathway experience under the guidance of a mentor. Over the next couple weeks we will showcase this year's Ithaca Youth Apprenticeship students! For more information about the program please contact our Youth Apprenticeship Career Coach: Monica Kershner 608-585-2311 / monica.kershner@ithaca.k12.wi.us
Ithaca High School Youth Apprenticeship students in the Agriculture pathway are Ryan Biermeier, Talena Sprecher, Natashia Mueller, Logan Anderson, Caleb Birkrem, Josie Laue, Darin Nelson, and Landon Thompson.









Wednesday was “Drive anything but a car or truck to school” day….and our student body did NOT disappoint! Please enjoy this short video we are happy to share with you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqCliPpUNYs

Tuesday, May 23, the 8th grade class celebrated the end of Middle School at Devils Lake State Park. They went hiking, swimming, fishing, and enjoyed an amazing cookout with brats, hamburgers, and hotdogs. Thank you to the staff and chaperones for making it possible. It was a great day to be a Bulldog 8th grader!






Last week, the elementary students were treated to a visit from local author, Helga Moser. Moser's books share her memories growing up on Pleasant Valley Farm, near Hillsboro, and bring her favorite animal tales to life for her readers. Mrs. Moser also took the time to personally autograph every book purchased during her visit to Ithaca. Special thanks to Helga Moser for visiting our district, and to Mrs. Newkirk for planning and scheduling this special visit for our students.






Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow
Announcements: Wed, May 24, 2023
Today is a Day 2
From Coach Larrabee:
The Trap Club team had 5 girls and 7 boys in the top 25 for the season. Congratulations on the awesome shooting! Girls: Abby Verthein - 1st, Lora Hinz - 2nd, Brianna Clark - 7th, Lilyanna Kast - 10th, Katelynn Fry - 11th; Boys: Garrett Granger - 2nd, Mason King - 4th, Sebastian Turner - 5th, Gavin Kast - 5th, Hayden Verthein - 7th, Mac Coy - 16th, Owen Feryance - 23rd. Also statewide the team had 4 shooters make the all-state team, the top 100 shooters in the state. They are: Abby 24.0 avg, Lora 23.5 avg, Garrett 23.6 avg, Mason 23.2 avg. In addition to Abby's 1st place conference she was also 3rd in the state for girls. Congratulations Team on a spectacular season!
From Coach Olson:
There will be a meeting for current 8-11th gr students interested in playing fball today in Mr Thome’s room during attack.
From Middle School Football:
There is a sign up sheet outside the office for students entering 6-8th gr interested in playing MS fball.
From Ms Schoen:
YOUniversity staff (summer school) are seeking student helpers in gr 8-11 during summer school, June 12-23. See Ms Schoen if interested. Volunteer hours available.
Baccalaureate for the Ithaca Class of 2023 will be May 24 at 7pm at Willow Valley Church in Ithaca. Guest Speaker will be Mr. Herbst. All Seniors and Ithaca School Staff, family and friends are invited.
From Mrs. Zorea:
National Honor Society will meet today during Attack to elect next year’s officers.
From Ms. Bevan:
On Thur, May 25th, students in grades 8-11 will be completing High School Scheduling with teachers from 8-9am. Make sure your colored registration sheet is here, signed by your parent/guardian. After meeting with teachers, your sheet should be turned into Ms. Bevan. If you have questions/concerns about your schedule for next year, please see Ms Bevan or Mrs. Kershner before Thur morning. Seniors should arrive by 8:55am.
Athletes in 9-12th gr next fall planning to play volleyball, should attend an informational volleyball meeting in the LMC during Attack on Fri, May 26th. Information regarding Summer League, Camps, Open Gyms, and fall prep will be given out. Any questions, reach out to Angie Young.
From Ms. Stocks:
Attention Juniors, we will have a class meeting this Fri, May 26th during breakfast in the gym.
From Ms Durkin:
The Senior Class and the Student Council will be hosting a Senior Farewell Dance next Fri, May 26 in the commons from 8-11 pm. ALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE WELCOME! The price for admission is free BUT we are accepting donations for the Newkirk Family as a free will offering. The dance is a casual dance so come as you are and have fun! Same rules apply for any non-Ithaca student attending the dance.
From the FFA:
Thank you to all who came out and supported the FFA greenhouse! We still have many beautiful 12-inch baskets, bedding plants and planters. This will be the last week of the greenhouse being open. We will be open Sat, May 27 from 9 am - 1 pm. We will also sell by appointment. Contact Ms. Sprecher to set up a time to come shop.
From Ms. Schmitt:
Do you want to act on stage and shine in the spotlight? Community Players is producing “Heidi” this summer, and needs YOU to audition! Roles for children of all ages, NO EXPERIENCE needed! Auditions will be Tue, May 30 and Wed, May 31 at 6pm in the downtown auditorium. Questions? Email communityplayersswwi@gmail.com or talk to Ms. Schmitt!
From the PTSO:
We have 6 Elementary/MS yearbooks left. If you missed the deadline and are interested in one, email hilbsam@ithaca.k12.wi.us. $15 per yearbook.
From Mrs. Wipperfurth:
On behalf of the Ithaca Playground Committee, we would like to thank everyone for helping make our brick fundraiser a success over the past couple years. This will be our final call for brick sales! Please take this opportunity to commemorate your child’s upcoming graduation, represent your graduating class from years past, honor a loved one, represent your business, and/or leave your legacy in any way you choose. Orders can be placed online at https://www.thatsmybrick.com/ithacawi. The order deadline is Friday, June 2nd. If you have questions, please reach out to Brittany Penfield at brittany.penfield@ithaca.k12.wi.us. Bricks will be ordered this summer and will be placed behind the school near the patio prior to the 2023-2024 school year. Thanks again for your support!
Word of the day: Orthography refers to “correct spelling,” or “the art of writing words with the proper letters according to standard usage.” As the winner of several spelling bees, she impressed her teachers with her exceptional grasp of orthography.
This Day in History: 1883–The Brooklyn Bridge over the East River opens in 1883, connecting New York and Brooklyn for the first time in history. The bridge was the largest suspension bridge ever built to that date.
Birthdays:
Elementary: none
MS/HS: none

From Coach Larrabee, here are this seasons top 25 boys and girls in conference standings. The team had 5 girls and 7 boys in the top 25. Congratulations on the awesome shooting this season!
Girls:
Abby Verthein - 1st, Lora Hinz - 2nd, Brianna Clark - 7th, Lilyanna Kast - 10th, Katelynn Fry - 11th
Boys:
Garrett Granger - 2nd, Mason King - 4th, Sebastian Turner - 5th, Gavin Kast - 5th, Hayden Verthein - 7th, Mac Coy - 16th, Owen Feryance - 23rd
Also state wide the team had 4 shooters make the all-state team which is the top 100 shooters in the state.
They are: Abby Verthein 24.0 avg., Lora Hinz 23.5 avg., Garrett Granger 23.6 avg., Mason King 23.2 avg.
In addition to Abby Verthein's 1st place conference she was also 3rd place in the state for girls.
Congratulations Team on a spectacular season!!!!



Ithaca Youth Apprenticeship Student Spotlight...connecting students to career opportunities! The YA Program is a 1 or 2 yr program that gives Juniors & Seniors the chance to explore a career of their interest. Students will earn credit & wages while gaining career pathway experience under the guidance of a mentor. Over the next couple weeks we will showcase this year's Ithaca Youth Apprenticeship students! For more information about the program please contact our Youth Apprenticeship Career Coach: Monica Kershner 608-585-2311 / monica.kershner@ithaca.k12.wi.us
Ithaca High School Youth Apprenticeship students in the Hospitality pathway are Alan Pomering and Evan Gomez, seniors, and Danny Feryance and Ruthie Weitzel, juniors.



