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• • Updated 2025-2026 School Year Calendar

    
    New Additions to the MPSD School Year Calendar for 2025-2026  In order to provide our
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    New Additions to the MPSD School Year Calendar for 2025-2026 

    In order to provide our elementary teachers adequate time to collaborate and plan for learning, we are adding the following No School days and Early Dismissal days to the MPSD Calendar for the 2025-2026 school year for Elementary and 4K only.

     

    No School Days Added:

     

    Sept 24: No School Elementary Only

    Dec 17: No School Elementary Only

    May 20: No School Elementary Only

     

    Early Dismissal Days: 11:30 Dismissal for Jefferson and Franklin/ 12:00 Dismissal Jackson, Madison, Monroe, Riverview; No School 4K

     

    Oct 22: Early Dismissal Elementary Only/ No School 4K

    Nov 19: Early Dismissal Elementary Only/ No School 4K

    Jan 21: Early Dismissal Elementary Only/ No School 4K

    Feb 18: Early Dismissal Elementary Only/ No School 4K

    Mar 18: Early Dismissal Elementary Only/ No School 4K

    April 22: Early Dismissal Elementary Only/ No School 4K

     

    Elementary K-5 Students will have three options on these No School or Early Dismissal Days. 

     

    Full No School Days (Listed Above)	Early Dismissal Days (Listed Above)
    Students can stay home.	Students can go home at dismissal time.
    Students can come to school and will have supervision provided.	Students can stay at school and will have supervision provided.
    Students can register to attend SOS Days offered by YMCA. Limited space available. Students can register for the Boys and Girls Club.	Students can register to attend SOS Days offered by YMCA. Limited space available.  Students can register for the Boys and Girls Club

    SOS DAYS AT THE YMCA

    SOS Days welcome students to the Y to play games, create, connect with their peers, and make use of the Y facility, including swimming and gymnastics as 
    available.

    Registration for these days will open on Monday, July 14, at 5am at
    mtrymca.org. Families will be asked to select every day they'll need care at that time. The Y has licensed this program to allow families to utilize State Childcare Assistance.

    *As a licensed program, parents will be asked to complete the requisite questionnaire to meet DCF standards, including immunization records.

    Fees will be billed on the Friday prior to the date of care.

    •    Full days: $28/day for Y Members, $38 for non-members
    •    Half days: $14/day for Y Members, $19/day for non-members

    Contact Kenya Simon with questions ksimon@mtrymca.org 920.482.1539

    BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF MANITOWOC COUNTY

    With a $25 School-Year Membership, Manitowoc Youth ages 6-12 can attend the Club after school daily from 3-7pm. Members will participate in activities in the Gym, STEM Lab, Game Room, Learning Centers, and Art Room. They will also receive a third meal of the day in our Café. Transportation from Jefferson, Franklin, Monroe, Madison, Jackson, and Riverview Elementaries is available for an additional fee.

    On most MPSD No School days, programming is available from 8am-5:30pm at no extra charge. Breakfast, Lunch, and an afternoon snack will be available these days.

    Registration for School Year Membership is now open – specific registration for “Manitowoc Non-School Days” will be coming soon.

    Contact the club at 920.905.5172 or visit www.bgcmanitowoccounty.org for additional information.

    Middle Schoolers can attend the Club at Washington Middle School free of charge. Participate in some Academic Enrichment and Social-Emotional Learning after school each night after school. Visit our website or contact Athena Martin for more information (amartin@bgclubfoxvalley.org).

    
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  • Lincoln High School Announces New Boys Tennis Coach

    
    Manitowoc Lincoln High School is proud to announce Paige Cotton as the new Head Coach of
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    Manitowoc Lincoln High School is proud to announce Paige Cotton as the new Head Coach of the Boys Tennis Program, beginning in Spring 2026.

    Coach Cotton brings an extensive background in both education and tennis. A graduate of UW-Oshkosh, she worked as a professional tennis instructor at the Oshkosh YMCA for five years and as a pro tennis instructor at Western Racquet & Fitness Club in Green Bay. She also assisted with running summer tennis camps at UW-Oshkosh, UW-Whitewater, and UW-Madison.

    Her coaching career began at Oshkosh West High School as the boys JV tennis coach, where she kept her players engaged through distance practices during the COVID-19 shutdown. Since joining MPSD in 2022 as a Physical Education teacher at Franklin Elementary, she has coached Washington Middle School tennis and currently serves as an assistant and JV coach for the Lincoln girls tennis team.

    “I’m thrilled to lead the Manitowoc Lincoln Boys Tennis team, revitalizing the program and empowering our players to soar to new heights,” said Coach Cotton. “With 20 years of experience and a great passion sparked by my family and coaches, I’m eager to pay it forward, inspiring my athletes to unlock their full potential and achieve greatness. I’m committed to cultivating a culture of excellence, dedication, and teamwork. I’m excited to embark on this journey with our talented players. Let’s go Ships!!”

      “We are thrilled to be able to have someone with Paige's experience, character, and commitment lead our boys tennis program!” said LHS Athletic Director Stan Diedrich. “With Paige teaching and also currently coaching in the district, it will allow her to connect with kids and the community. This is a huge asset to our program.”  

    
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  • Big Swings Ahead: MPSD Breaks Ground at Bruce Steinbecker Field  

    
    On July 30, we officially broke ground on the transformation of a beloved community space, Municipal
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    On July 30, we officially broke ground on the transformation of a beloved community space, Municipal Field, now renamed Bruce Steinbecker Field in honor of longtime Lincoln coach, teacher, and mentor Bruce Steinbecker.

    The exciting renovations include a brand-new turf field, upgraded fencing, new bleachers, and a new concession stand with bathrooms.

    This project has been made possible through the generosity and partnership of so many in our community, including:

    • The West Foundation for their generous $300,000 donation

    • Maurice & Patrice Jones for a $200,000 facility naming rights donation

    • H&H Civil Construction for their $100,000 donation

    • Novak Service Center and Manitowoc Public Utilities for donating $65,000 each

    • Nicolet Bank, Community First Credit Union, Wallace Law, and Popp Enterprises for their $25,000 contributions

    We’ve also received donations from more than 85 additional individuals and organizations, ranging from $100 to $20,000. It’s a true community effort that reflects our shared commitment to giving MPSD students the best.

    With baseball booming in our district and participation at an all-time high, the timing couldn’t be better. Construction is now underway and expected to be completed by spring 2026, just in time for the next generation of Ships to take the field.

    We’re proud to honor Coach Steinbecker’s legacy and can’t wait to see the impact this space will have for years to come. Go Ships! 

    
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  • LHS Welcomes Tricia Israel as New Assistant Principal

    
      The Manitowoc Public School District is excited to announce Tricia Israel as the new
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    The Manitowoc Public School District is excited to announce Tricia Israel as the new Assistant Principal of Lincoln High School.

    Ms. Israel brings more than 17 years of experience in education as an English teacher. Most recently, she served as an English teacher for the Appleton School District. Her career reflects a strong commitment to student success, staff collaboration, and academic excellence.

    “Tricia’s passion for education and her student-centered leadership style make her a great addition to the Lincoln High School team,” said Superintendent Lee Thennes. “We are confident she will support our staff, students, and families with purpose and positivity.”

    Ms. Israel earned her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from UW Oshkosh and her Bachelor's degree in Journalism from Edgewood College, where she also completed her teacher certification. She has been recognized by her peers for her reflective leadership, strong communication skills, and ability to build trusting relationships within school communities.

    “I feel incredibly honored and blessed to be joining the Lincoln High community and look forward to an amazing school year.”

    Please join us in welcoming Tricia Israel to the Ships family.

     

    
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  • Student Volunteers Help Complete 1,000-Foot Boardwalk at School Forest

    
    After three years and over 1,360 volunteer hours, the Manitowoc Public School District is proud to
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    After three years and over 1,360 volunteer hours, the Manitowoc Public School District is proud to announce the completion of the new 1,000-foot Wild Pond Lane boardwalk at the School Forest. This project is a true testament to what can be accomplished through student leadership, community collaboration, and a shared love for the outdoors.

    The ambitious project began as part of an initiative to restore and enhance access to one of the most scenic trails in the School Forest. Thanks to a Recreational Trails Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, materials and funding were secured, but it was the hard work of volunteers, especially students, that brought the project to life.

    Leading the charge were Lincoln High School construction students, guided by instructor Kyle Wagner. From building platform segments in the classroom to putting in hands-on work days at the School Forest, these students applied real-world skills to make a lasting impact.

    Also instrumental in the project were longtime volunteers Rich Kangas, Jeff Koch, and Kelly Vorron, who not only provided guidance and labor but worked alongside students every summer throughout the three-year build. Their leadership helped create a consistent and empowering experience for all involved.

    A special thank you goes to student volunteers Camden Leitner and Phineas Garrington, who participated in all three years of summer service week. Their continued commitment helped see the boardwalk through from its first plank to the final section.

    Projects like this one highlight how meaningful, hands-on experiences outside the classroom can teach invaluable lessons about teamwork, responsibility, and the power of community.

    The Manitowoc Public School District is deeply grateful to every student, staff member, and volunteer who contributed their time and energy to this incredible effort. We also thank the Wisconsin DNR for their support in reopening this beautiful part of the School Forest.

    
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• • Lights Out, Vision On!

    
    Varsity coaches from Lincoln High School came together with Superintendent Lee Thennes, Principal
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    Varsity coaches from Lincoln High School came together with Superintendent Lee Thennes, Principal Micah Hoffman, and Athletic Director Stan Diedrich for an evening of collaboration, reflection, and forward-thinking. The purpose? To explore how LHS can continue to build a Culture of Excellence within its athletics program, one that reflects the values of thriving schools and strong communities.

    The meeting centered on eight key characteristics that define a culture of excellence, ranging from high expectations and collaborative leadership to equity, joy, and sustained energy. Together, the group engaged in honest conversation about where the program is now and what steps can be taken to support student-athletes in meaningful ways.

    A surprise power outage due to heavy rain didn’t slow the group down. With the lights out, coaches pulled out their phones and lit up the room, literally, with flashlights and continued their work.

    The evening emphasized that excellence is about more than wins and records; it’s about shared values, inclusive leadership, and building strong relationships with and among students. Coaches reflected on their roles as both educators and mentors, and left with a renewed commitment to supporting the growth and success of every student-athlete.

     

    
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  • Franklin Honored as School of Recognition

    
    The WI DPI honored Franklin Elementary School as a “High Impact” School of Recognition
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    The WI DPI honored Franklin Elementary School as a “High Impact” School of Recognition for its achievement growth for all students, especially students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. 
    
    Franklin is one of 70 schools across the state that demonstrated “high impact” above-average achievement in the 2023-2024 school year when compared to schools with similar demographics. This is the first year the Wisconsin Schools of Recognition program has been awarded since it was paused four years ago during the pandemic.
    
    We applaud and thank students, staff and families for your collaboration to advance learning, especially in reading and math. This recognition is the result of hard work by both our staff and students. Our students are engaged in their literacy and math every day, and we are proud of their growth as learners every year.
    
    “High Impact” Title 1 schools are recognized based on a rigorous set of criteria, including academic performance, measurable progress in student growth or graduation rates, and reducing achievement gaps - particularly among students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. They must receive federal Title 1 funding, meet or exceed expectations on the most recent School Report Card, and meet or exceed 95% test participation across all students. 
    
    Franklin has “met expectations” on state report cards for the past three years, elevating its overall accountability score by 8.3 points since the 2020-2021 school year during the height of the pandemic.
    
    Learn more about the program and view all honorees.
    
    Be proud of yourselves, Franklin students, staff and families!

    
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  • Rising Phoenix Grads Earn College Degree

    
    Congratulations to these 25 Manitowoc Lincoln High School Class of 2025 seniors who were part of the
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    Congratulations to these 25 Manitowoc Lincoln High School Class of 2025 seniors who were part of the Rising Phoenix program at UW-Green Bay, Manitowoc Campus for the past two years! 🐦‍🔥 On Thursday, they were honored at a Rising Phoenix event and on Saturday, they earned their Associate Degree at UW-Green Bay's commencement ceremony at the Kress Events Center. (See photos at https://www.flickr.com/.../uwgr.../albums/72177720326245154/
     

    Special congratulations to Lincoln seniors Oriana Miller and Charis Wendle who delivered speeches at the Rising Phoenix celebration Thursday.
     

    UWGB started Rising Phoenix in 2020 with incoming Lincoln High School juniors and has since expanded the program to include numerous other high schools.
     

    Miranda Bauer

    Koen Bubolz

    Maya Contreras

    Kai Contreras

    Cristal Corral Fonseca

    Paige Hemme

    Summer Hoffman

    Addison Jalbert

    Laci Kitzmann

    Lexi Kitzmann

    Joselyn Manders

    Oriana Miller

    Eliana Nessman

    Cohen Newberg

    Jersie Pankratz

    Ava Popp

    Lilia Sczygelski

    Cabrena Stockinger

    Lucy Townsend

    London Vang

    Ana Vazquez Cisneros

    Charis Wendle

    Grace Xiong

    Jordan Zahn

    Alexandra Zavala
    ​​​​​​​

    #ShipsPride #UWGBGrad #YourDreamsOurCompass #WeAreMPSD #RisingPhoenix #ClassOf2025

    
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  • Ships Alum Transfers to Badgers Football

    
    Manitowoc Ships Football tight end Davis Heinzen, all-time leader in catches, receiving yardage and
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    Manitowoc Ships Football tight end Davis Heinzen, all-time leader in catches, receiving yardage and touchdowns, shares how he ended up transferring to join the Badgers Wisconsin Football.

    
    “It meant a lot to be able to play my high school career here,” Heinzen told Brian Norton at Seehafer News. “Great guys like Doug Free and Don Davey, who played here, went on to the NFL, and now I’ve been blessed to play in Madison. I know how much it means to people in this town.”

    
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  • MPSD Board Purchases Student Artwork

    
    MPSD loves art! This week, the MPSD Board of Education purchased artwork from three students,
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    MPSD loves art! This week, the MPSD Board of Education purchased artwork from three students, continuing an annual tradition that began in the 1990s. This year's honored student artists were:
     

    Evangeline Manjarrez-Hernandez, who under the guidance of Manitowoc Lincoln High School Art Teacher Emily Weinberger, created a floral batik. Batik is a wax-resist dyeing technique that originated in Indonesia used to create intricate patterns on fabric.
     

    Inara Butler, who under the guidance of Washington Middle School Art Teacher Tim Jadowski, explored the style of abstraction and color theory using prismacolors.
     

    Samara Soto-Nieto, a kindergartener under the direction of Madison Elementary School Art Teacher Morgan Siebold, who created a watercolor showcasing her craftsmanship and knowledge of shape and color.
     

    The chosen artwork, which was also exhibited at the @RahrWestArtMuseum will be displayed at MPSD's Central Office for all to appreciate in the years to come. Our art department appreciates that we have the opportunity to continue the tradition - it's such a wonderful opportunity for our students.

    
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• • Lincoln Hmong Dancers Perform Across MPSD

    
    In celebration of Hmong American Day, a Manitowoc Lincoln High School Hmong dance group performed
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    In celebration of Hmong American Day, a Manitowoc Lincoln High School Hmong dance group performed for students at Washington Middle School and other MPSD schools Wednesday. Thank you, dancers - and thanks for answering students' questions about the performance and its traditions.

    
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  • Mrs. Longmeyer Promoted to Washington Principal

    
    MPSD is pleased to announce that Mrs. Lainey Longmeyer, Associate Principal at Manitowoc Lincoln
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    MPSD is pleased to announce that Mrs. Lainey Longmeyer, Associate Principal at Manitowoc Lincoln High School, will be the Principal at Washington Middle School as of July 1, pending Board approval. Mrs. Longmeyer is an alumnus of both Washington (then-Junior High) and Lincoln. Fun fact: while a student at Washington, she was president of the Student Council and won a Pauline Tienor school award as a 9th grader. Then-Principal Kathy Lemberger predicted that one day, Lainey would return to Washington to lead the school.
     

    More about Mrs. Longmeyer:
     

    She is a Manitowoc native who has worked for MPSD for the past eight years. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education from UW - Stevens Point in 2017 and began her career as a Special Education teacher at Lincoln in 2017. A trusted leader, she became LHS Dean of Students in 2019 and earned her Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Holy Family College in Manitowoc in 2020.
     

    Longmeyer became Lincoln’s Associate Principal in 2022 and served as Master Scheduler & Programming Administrator, Safety Coordinator and an instructional leader and coach. She also helped to handle student discipline and character development.
     

    MPSD Director of Student Services Katie Eichmann, whose department oversees Special Education where Longmeyer began her career, said “Longmeyer’s passion and commitment to students in the MPSD is second to none. Lainey inspires others to be their very best for students through her dedication and service to those around her.”
     

    Longmeyer told the district she was passionate about providing students at Washington Middle School opportunities to achieve at high levels and working alongside the committed staff members to get there. She will promote a safe and effective environment to provide all students with engaging, high levels of learning and growing. She has a deep ambition to support staff on how to leverage their strengths and grow their teaching practices.
     

    MPSD hopes all Wolves families and employees will give Mrs. Longmeyer a warm welcome when she moves to Washington July 1 and help her build strong relationships.

    
    #WolvesPride #WeAreMPSD #YourDreamsOurCompass

    
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  • Lincoln Students Travel in France

    
    Vive la France!   A 25-year friendship between Manitowoc Lincoln High School and Lycée
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    Vive la France!
     

    A 25-year friendship between Manitowoc Lincoln High School and Lycée Marc Chagall in Reims, France continued this spring as LHS held its first France Live exchange since 2018! From March 12-20, 34 French students and their teachers traveled to Manitowoc to live with MPSD families and explore Wisconsin. One month later, 24 MPSD students and three World Language teachers flew to Reims and Paris, France for a 10-day exchange stay with their French families and host siblings, from April 22 to May 1.
     

    In France, Manitowoc students attended school, visited various communities in and around the Champagne region, and lived with their host families. They ended their stay in Paris, visiting many of the world famous monuments that they have studied in class. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for many of these students and one that they will not forget!
     

    Thanks to our teacher chaperones — Madame Holly Paquette-Neu (French), Madame Kim Calaway-Laubuge (French) and Herr Chris Glandt (German) — and to all the host families in Manitowoc and Reims!
     

    #FrenchLive

    
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  • Lincoln Theatre Performs 'Yearbook'

    
    Bravo to LHS Theatre's performance of the play, "Yearbook"! Great vignettes of high
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    Bravo to LHS Theatre's performance of the play, "Yearbook"! Great vignettes of high school life. Loved the nod to Lincoln and the Ships If you missed it, start following LHS Theatre on Facebook or Instagram and keep up with the latest theater events!

    
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  • Grandparents Night Offers Family Fun

    
    Incredible turnout for Riverview Learning Community's Grandparents Night! Thanks to all who came
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    Incredible turnout for Riverview Learning Community's Grandparents Night! Thanks to all who came to play bingo with prizes, enjoy cookies and refreshments and buy books at the book fair. You all warmed our hearts with your raffle purchases - winners will be announced tomorrow! The proceeds will benefit Riverview's dream to build an inclusive playground for all students - THANK YOU!

    #RiverviewRaptors #WeAreMPSD #YourDeamsOurCompass

    
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• • Taste of the Draft Awards Jefferson

    
    Jefferson Elementary School is getting help combatting student hunger and increasing physical
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    Jefferson Elementary School is getting help combatting student hunger and increasing physical fitness, thanks to the Taste of the NFL and GENYOUth! Jefferson received donations totaling $5,000 including Grab and Go meal carts, smoothie makers, milk coolers and an entire flag football curriculum and all the supplies including footballs.
     

    The Green Bay Packers' draft-eve event at Schreiber Foods featuring 20 Wisconsin supper clubs raised enough funds to donate nutrition items to 90 schools around the state, in honor of the 90th NFL Draft.
     

    Jefferson students were excited to learn they will be able to play flag football and enjoy smoothies at lunch. They also got a special grill out lunch to celebrate the donation.

    
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  • Students Help Mulch on Earth Day

    
    Madison Elementary School's 4th grade class learned about Arbor Day from members of the
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    Madison Elementary School's 4th grade class learned about Arbor Day from members of the community, including Mayor Nickels. Students listened to the story The Lorax, viewed a presentation and helped mulch around new trees that were planted along Memorial Drive. They were all gifted a sapling that they got to bring home to plant on their own.

    
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  • Washington & Wilson Host 6th Grade Volleyball Tournament

    
    Wilson Middle School and Washington Middle School 6th graders faced off in a tournament to show
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    Wilson Middle School and Washington Middle School 6th graders faced off in a tournament to show their skills and volleyball knowledge. There were nine teams and more than 75 athletes who took part in the 6th grade volleyball season! We cannot wait to see what these athletes do in the future.

    
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  • PTA, Families Donate to Warming Shelter

    
    Thanks to the Monroe Elementary PTA and school families who donated all the unsold baked goods to
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    Thanks to the Monroe Elementary PTA and school families who donated all the unsold baked goods to the Manitowoc Warming Shelter after Monroe Elementary School's bake sale and family Bingo Night. Pastor Matt Sauer and his crew of volunteers were very appreciative of the Monroe community's donation to those seeking shelter in the cold.

    #WeAreMPSD | #MonroeMustangs

    
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  • Students Bowled Over by Phy Ed Unit

    
    Phy Ed, Midwest-style: bowling! - at Franklin Physical Education #LifelongFitness #FitnessFun
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    Phy Ed, Midwest-style: bowling! - at Franklin Physical Education

    #LifelongFitness #FitnessFun

    
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• • Students Compete at State FCCLA

    
    Congrats to Washington and Wilson Middle School students who are headed to STATE Wisconsin FCCLA in
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    Congrats to Washington and Wilson Middle School students who are headed to STATE Wisconsin FCCLA in April after competing at the Regional FCCLA Conference (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) last Saturday in Weyauwega-Fremont!
     

    Washington — Lillie Brown and Callie Shimek
     

    Wilson — Kyla Bauduin, Lily Denor, Abigail Gebhart, Asha Grabowski, Breleigh Grodek, Chloe Hafner, Aislyn O’Rourke and Macie Wolf
     

    Student projects included designing an outdoor space, coming up with an innovative superfood drink, developing a creative way to address a concern in the development of children and more!
     

    Kudos to all students who participated and the coach/advisors. Have fun at state and keep on learning!

    
    #YourDreamsOurCompass #WeAreMPSD

    
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  • Veterans Celebrated in Madison's Honor Walk Parade

    
    Thank you to the veterans who participated in Monroe Elementary School's Honor Walk Parade! We
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    Thank you to the veterans who participated in Monroe Elementary School's Honor Walk Parade! We hope you felt the love of our students and staff and enjoyed seeing the student artwork celebrating all you sacrificed for our freedoms. Thanks to all who helped organize this event.

    Students and staff also raised more than $420 in a coin drive to donate to Darkhorse Lodge, a retreat for veterans in Tennessee

    
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  • Ms. Groelle Selected Among Future 15

    
    Bravo to Madison Elementary School 5th Grade Teacher Crystal Groelle and ALL of the Future 15 Young
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    Bravo to Madison Elementary School 5th Grade Teacher Crystal Groelle and ALL of the Future 15 Young Professionals of Manitowoc County who were honored at a banquet Thursday.
     

    Ms. Groelle is an incredible teacher, colleague and community volunteer. As the chamber group said: "Through her various roles, Crystal is dedicated to advocating for Manitowoc's youth, helping them realize their potential and find happiness even in the face of adversity."

    
    #WeAreMPSD #Future15MC

    
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  • Teachers Join Halloween Parade

    
    Enjoying Jackson Elementary School’s school Halloween parade and trick-or-treat.
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    Enjoying Jackson Elementary School’s school Halloween parade and trick-or-treat.

    
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  • Student Leaders Prepare Weekend Food Bags

    
    Jefferson Elementary School student leaders Kennedi Chang, Orlando Avila and Lilah Thao help put
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    Jefferson Elementary School student leaders Kennedi Chang, Orlando Avila and Lilah Thao help put weekend food bags into fellow student backpacks every Friday.
     

    Hundreds of our MPSD students do not have enough food to eat until they return to school Monday. Every Friday, members of Jefferson Elementary School Student Leadership Team stuff bags of food into many of those students' backpacks, thanks to generous community donations to the Grow It Forward Community Food Center Student Backpack program. MPSD is eternally grateful for that support!!
     

    But there is a dwindling amount of food stocked at the pantry, which has seen a 40% increase in attendance. Grow It Forward volunteers used to put 10 ready-to-eat or easy-to-heat items in a plastic weekend bag, but lately they only have enough to provide 6-7 items.
     

    Did you know that up to 1,200 children in our county don't have enough food to eat? Grow It Forward's Backpack program supports about about 400 MPSD students across 5 schools - Jefferson, Madison, Monroe and Riverview elementaries plus a few of the students in need at McKinley Academy. Other MPSD schools, including our middle schools, want to join the program to serve their students who are struggling with food insecurity, but Grow it Forward had to turn them down because there is not enough food to share with additional MPSD schools - or with other districts in the county.
     

    Jefferson fifth graders who serve on the student leadership team thanked all who donate. "Hi familias - gracias for the donated food to help our people of Manitowoc so they can eat," Orlando Avila said. "Keep on donating."
     

    "This donated food can help struggling families if they don't have enough money to buy food at the moment," Kennedi Chang added. "That's why I joined Jefferson Leadership Team to help kids get food so they can do good in school."
     

    Lilah Thao said, "I think this program can help because the people who need food for their families will get some for their self and family whenever they need it on the weekends."
     

    How You Can Help:

    Volunteer: Help assemble and distribute food bags at Grow It Forward.

    Organize a food drive: Collect donations at your business or organization.

    Donate food or funds: Your contributions go directly to purchasing food for children in need.
     

    Donations can be dropped off Monday-Friday 9am-5pm at 1501 Marshall St., Manitowoc.
     

    Checks can be mailed to:

    Grow It Forward Inc.
    c/o Student Backpack Program
    PO Box 562
    Manitowoc, WI 54221-0562

    Donations can be made online here
     

    Shop from this Amazon wishlist and the items will be delivered right to MPSD
     

    Every bit helps! Together, we can ensure no child goes hungry.
     

    Learn more at: https://www.grow-it-forward.org/
     

    #ThankYouManitowoc #FeedOurFuture #EndChildHunger #SupportOurKids

    
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