Harper Wood, who plays the saxophone in the fifth grade band, earned a black belt for her dedication to practicing her instrument in the band’s karate themed practice awards. Band teacher Mrs. Abby Palmer presented the award.

 

Mrs. Kari Amthor received the 2023 Elementary Educator of the Year Award at the Rock Port Elementary awards ceremony on May 24, 2023.

 

Mrs. Gilson’s second grade classroom received the Championship Belt for having the highest percentage of reading goals met. The class won with a completion rate of 88.6%. Pictured, from left to right, are: front – Markie Gaines, Oliver Paris, Raylan Daugherty, and Louie Leseberg; and back row – Izzy Carpenter, Kinsley Perry, Piper McKenney, Abel Holmes, Parkyr Chaney, Maddie Henggeler, and Vera-Ann Newbanks.

The Rock Port R-II 2023 elementary awards assembly was held Wednesday, May 24, 2023. Dr. Waigand, principal, welcomed everyone. Awards presented were as follows:

Accelerated Reader Reading Goals

Students who met their quarterly reading goals through Accelerated Reader were recognized.

The following students met their Accelerated Reading (AR) goals for three quarters: first grade – Ryker Driskell, Mason Meyerkorth, Zoe Riley, Logan Schlup, Sawyer Proctor, Sadie Clodfelter, Mason Henggeler, Greenly Moore, Briggs Roup, Knox Schulte, Paislee Sollars, Piper Van Sickle, and Chase Krutz; second grade – Sophia Bare, Kyler Culp, Baylin Lewis, Parkyr Chaney, Abel Holmes, and Kinsley Perry; third grade – Austin Alexander, Mason Gubser, Jagger Jones, Eli Meyerkorth, and Raelynn Stoner; fourth grade – Damian Barth, Mason Hale, and Noah Davis; fifth grade – Kenni Davis, Jaxson Hale, Archer Meyerkorth, Chord Christians, Lincoln Jackson, and Malachi Davis; and sixth grade – Grady Cook, Rush Lewis, Cameron Lotter, and Grant Spiegel

The following students have been seriously pumping the books this year and met their reading goal all four quarters: first grade – Rylynn Comstock, Gabriel Gronniger, Jaylee Hudson, Layla Hughes, River McCown, Cass Stanton, Beau Waigand, Kendall Wamsley, Elsie Gubser, Belle Herron, Dawson Irvine, Henry McCoy, Rhett Murphy, Rory Robertson, Ella Sperber, Braylon Thomas, and Gentry Welch; second grade – Aislyn Barnes, Blaykleigh Daugherty, Brantley Garst, Portia Ingram, Lincoln Leichliter, Dale Pinzino, Jaylee Wood, Izzy Carpenter, Raylan Daugherty, Markie Gaines, Maddie Henggeler, Louie Leseberg, Vera-Ann Newbanks, and Oliver Paris; third grade – Kamryn Lair, Grant Unruh, Ashyr Chaney, Frank Kroeger, Kinsley Nuckolls, Lucy Ottmann, and Greyson Sperber; fourth grade – Joci Culp, Isaac Dougherty, Ethan Hunter, Andy Meyerkorth, Nella Steuter, Jack Bailey, Locke Chaney, Kambrie Driskell, Ali Ellis, Elaina Kroeger, Emma Roberts, Cy Vogler, Kipton Waigand, Tara Wamsley, and Colton Zach; fifth grade – Dawson Baker, Briar Daugherty, Jovie Millsap, Maeve Roup, Zeke Gebhards, Paisley Moore, Avery Schomburg, Jolie Steuter, and Harper Wood; and sixth grade – Reese Herron, Landon Melton-Burrell, Leah Meyerkorth, Adrianna Wallace, Madison Wilroy, Stevie Gaines, Ellie Garst, Isabella Kroeger, Jaecy-Mae Makings, and Alexi Stoner.

Top Reader

Each time a student reads a book and takes a short quiz on it, they receive points on Accelerated Reader. Most books in the lower elementary are worth one-half point. As students get older, the books increase in point value with many upper elementary books worth one to three points each. The following students are the top readers based on Accelerated Reader for their classroom: first grade – Beau Waigand, 51 (Mrs. Bredensteiner), and Piper VanSickle, 17.9, Mrs. Millsap; second grade – Lincoln Leichliter, 130.7, Mrs. Carpenter, and Izzy Carpenter, 101.2, Mrs. Gilson; third grade – Grant Unruh, 47.1, Mrs. Amthor, and Kinsley Nuckolls, 172.9, Mrs. Geib; fourth grade – Isaac Dougherty, 125.2, Mrs. Stanton, and Ali Ellis, 200.9, Mrs. Wood; fifth grade – Archer Meyerkorth, 153.3, Mrs. Hastert, and Malachi Davis, 166, Mrs. Weber; sixth grade – Landon Melton-Burrell, 122.7, Ms. Bennett, and Isabella Kroeger, 295.5, Ms. Coon

1,000 Point Club

Isabella Kroeger surpassed 1,000 career Accelerated Reader books with 1,181.6.

Career Point Club Leaders are: (1) Jackson Meyerkorth, 2,077.7 points; (2) Mya Welch, 1,416.9 points; (3) Corbyn Jakub, 1,389.3 points / 9,275,687 words; (4) Malachi Skillen, 1,282.2 points / 8,624,482 words); (5) Isabella Kroeger, 1,181.6 points; (6) Desmond Chaney, 1,073.8 points.

Student Council Representatives

Elementary Student Council Representatives are: Rozlyn McCown and Tenley Peshek, sixth grade; Zeke Gebhards and Archer Meyerkorth, fifth grade; Jack Bailey and Nella Steuter, fourth grade; Austin Alexander and Greyson Sperber, third grade. These students were responsible for daily announcements, putting the flag out each morning, Dance Floor Friday music, and running Energy Bus assemblies as well as Frozen Friday treats each month. They have also organized teacher appreciation week treats and refreshments, fidget/calming boxes for students to use, added cones to recess bags, and organized Red Ribbon Week activities.

Spelling Bee

The following students participated in the local, county, and 275 Conference Spelling Bee: Kinsley Nuckolls – Rock Port grades 3-4 champion, 275 Conference qualifier; Isaac Dougherty – Rock Port grades 3-4 second place; Clara Hays – Maradi Mifflin grades 5-8 second place, Atchison County qualifier, 275 Conference qualifier; Chord Christians – Maradi Mifflin grades 5-8 fourth place.

Principal’s Art Gallery

Each year students’ outstanding artwork is recognized and displayed in the Principal’s Art Gallery outside of the cafeteria. This is a tradition that started many years ago and helps bring the hallways to life! Once students graduate from Rock Port they take their artwork with them. This year’s senior was Phillip Herron.

This year’s artists are: Dale Pinzino, second grade; Ashyr Chaney, third grade; Cooper Gibson, fifth grade; and Clara Hays, fifth grade.

Library Awards

Mrs. Amy Skillen presented library awards: Cy Vogler – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of the Rebounding Readers Battle of the Books team; Kipton Waigand – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of the Rebounding Readers Battle of the Books team; Ali Ellis – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of the Rebounding Readers Battle of the Books team; Locke Chaney – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of the Rebounding Readers Battle of the Books team; Archer Meyerkorth – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of Rex’s Readers Battle of the Books team; Briar Daugherty – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of Rex’s Readers Battle of the Books team; Isaac Dougherty – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of The Blue Crew Battle of the Books team; Jack Bailey – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of The Blue Crew Battle of the Books team; Elaina Kroeger – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of The Book Scavengers Battle of the Books team; Landon Melton-Burrell – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of The Book Scavengers Battle of the Books team; Harper Wood – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of The Book Scavengers Battle of the Books team; Isabella Kroeger – Mark Twain Award Reader and member of The Book Scavengers Battle of the Books team; Kenni Davis – Member of Rex’s Readers Battle of the Books team; Noah Davis – Member of The Blue Crew Battle of the Books team; Isaac Shimmel – Mark Twain Award Reader; Ellie Garst – Mark Twain Award Reader; Stevie Gaines – Mark Twain Award Reader; and Malachi Davis – Mark Twain Award Reader

The “Book Boss Award” went to the following students for consistently turning library books in on time: Rory Robertson, first grade; Markie Gaines and Isabella Carpenter, second grade; Tara Wamsley, Kipton Waigand, Hendrix Lee, Ali Ellis, Lane Seeley, and Alex Gibson, fourth graders; Jolie Steuter, fifth grade;  and Adrianna Wallace and Isabella Kroeger, sixth grade.

Band Awards

Mrs. Abby Palmer’s band awards were given to those students who practiced their instruments in certain karate themed levels. Those who earned their white belts were: Briar Daugherty, Ryan Sharpless, Kenni Davis, Aleyda Clodfelter, Xzavier Napier-Lee, Jolie Steuter, Zeke Gebhards, Lexi Stoner, Jaxson Hale, Millie Ripley, Clara Hays, and Maddie Wilroy. Those who earned their yellow belts were: Malachi Davis, Ellie Garst, and Jadyn Jakob. Those earning orange belts were: Anna Weber, Isa Kroeger, Tenley Peshek, Isaac Shimmel, and Katelynn Rouse. The band student who earned the highest level, black belt, was Harper Wood.

Outstanding Educator Award

Mrs. Geib announced the 2023 Outstanding Educator Award. She said, “It is my honor and privilege to present this year’s Elementary Educator of the Year to my dear friend and colleague, Mrs. Kari Amthor.

“For those of you that didn’t know, Mrs. Amthor has been a Blue Jay from the very start. She spent her childhood right here at RPE, and in 1997, she graduated from Rock Port High School. After graduation, she left for Central Methodist College where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Ed. She later decided to further her education and obtain her Masters in Elementary Administration from William Woods University. Most recently, she earned her Special Education endorsement this past spring.

“Mrs. Amthor is married to her husband Wyatt and together they have two amazing children, Westyn (a soon to be high schooler) and Talyn (soon to be 8th grader).

“Mrs. Amthor has served the Rock Port School District in many ways beginning with her role in the at risk program, teaching second grade, being a member of several professional committees, coaching, and (if my memory serves me correctly), I have had the pleasure of being her sidekick in third grade for the past 11 years. Boy does time fly! Looking back over those years, it’s fun to reminisce about the experiences and events you helped shape and provide for your students . . . from the old days of Coffee House Poetry Cafes and Back to School Pool Parties, to the more recent overnight field trips to Jefferson City and the Holiday Random Acts of Kindness the kids so stealthily pulled off!

“In school we learn things!  Some of those things are simply taught, but many of the things we learn are learned through observations that we make or by someone modeling it for us. So I would like to share a few things I know about Mrs. Amthor that I have observed or learned over the years!

“First of all, she loves attention!  Just kidding . . . I’m sure she is ready for this assembly to proceed!

“Mrs. Amthor loves many things . . . a good book, a beautiful day, her hammock with that good book on a beautiful day, banana laffy taffy, being with her family, and her students, past and present!

“Mrs. Amthor isn’t afraid of change! Clearly uprooting the comfort of something she’s done in an exemplary fashion for the past 20 years is testament to that!  But she also teaches this through her constant need to meet her students where they are, even if that means she has to change the way she does things!

“Furthermore, she is dedicated and determined. She works countless hours researching ways to help her students succeed when they are struggling, finding new strategies or ideas for her classroom that are engaging for her students, and she is determined to provide each student with all they need, academic or otherwise.

“Her students describe her as sweet, kind, and oh so helpful! They love everything about her and love that she helps them when needed.

“Mrs. Amthor, I have learned so many things alongside you over the years.  One of those things is that when all else fails and you need to refocus, you must start with completely rearranging your classroom first! It’s the best way to regroup!

“On a more serious note and as mentioned before, I personally admire the dedication you have to your students, the way you whole-heartedly and unapologetically advocate for each one of them, and the high standards you set and help your students achieve. It is simply impeccable.

“A teacher is defined as “one who teaches” and you are the true definition of that! You not only teach the academic skills necessary, but you teach students to take risks, embrace a challenge, believe in themselves, be of good character, to go the extra mile, and so much more!

“Mrs. Amthor, RPE has definitely been blessed with one of the best! Congratulations on this much-deserved honor!”

President’s Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement

This award is given only to sixth graders who show outstanding educational growth, improvement, commitment or intellectual development in their academic subjects.  These students have met at least one of the following criteria: (1)  Maintained a grade average above an A- in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade; and (2) scored in the 90th percentile in either reading or math on the MAP test: Grady Cook, Ellie Garst, Ona Henriksen, Isabella Kroeger, Rozlyn McCown, Adrianna Wallace, and Anna Weber

President’s Award for Outstanding Academic Excellence

This award is given only to sixth graders who show outstanding educational growth, improvement, commitment or intellectual development in their academic subjects.  These students have met at all of the following criteria: (1) Maintained a grade average above an A- in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade; and (2) Scored in the 90th percentile or above in either reading or math on the MAP test: Stevie Gaines, Reese Herron, Leah Meyerkorth, and Alexi Stoner

Energy Bus Awards (May)

The May Energy Bus Awards were presented. Dr. Waigand explained that Principle #7 is Enjoy the Ride. Students were reminded that they are the driver of their bus. They set the direction for their life and who they allow on their bus. Dr. Waigand said, “You have only one ride through life so give it all you got and enjoy the ride.”

Teachers presented May Energy Bus Awards:

Mrs. Kari Amthor to Mason Gubser – “Mason brings a true sense of humor to our classroom and I appreciate that about him. He never gets too serious about much which is a reminder to all is us to “enjoy the ride” and live in the moment. Any conversation with Mason is sure to bring a smile to your face! Thanks for putting a smile on my face each day, Mason!”

Ms. Katarina Bennett to Colt Seiter – “ Colt enters the classroom every day with a smile on his face! He always asks his teachers and his peers how they are doing and if they’re having a good day. He shows so much compassion for those around him and is willing to help out whenever he can. His sense of humor and charisma make others around him light up!”

Mrs. Kymm Bredensteiner to Mason Meyerkorth – “Mason has such an enthusiasm for life! He comes in each morning with a happy, positive attitude. He is kind to others and always willing to lend a hand. When Mason is faced with a negative situation, he always chooses to walk away from it, even though it would be easy to join in. His positivity impresses me! I am so proud of you Mason for the joy you have brought to our classroom, along with your good decision making!”

Mrs. Kymm Bredensteiner to River McCown – “River is such a happy, loving kiddo! His smile and enthusiasm light up our room! He is always willing to do whatever is asked of him to improve his learning. Keep up the great work, River! I am so proud of you!”

Mrs. Kendall Carpenter to Baylin Lewis – “Baylin always comes into the classroom with a smile on her face. She always makes the best out of any situation! We can always count on her for something funny or positive to say to keep us going in the classroom. Thank you, Baylin, for being such a positive light in our classroom!”

Ms. Danyal Coon to Grant Spiegel and Ellie Garst – “Grant likes to live on the laid-back side. He works hard, but he plays hard as well. Grant has a fun attitude that makes his “bus” relaxed and chill. Thank you, Grant, for helping to make our classroom a cool place. Ellie has so much charisma! She isn’t afriad to say what is on her mind, and she is spunky and interesting to talk to. Ellie has a bright future, and she focuses on her goals while enjoying each moment of life. Thank you, Ellie for always bringing a smile to my face with your fun and bright personality!”

Mrs. Cindie Driskell to Lena Paris – “Lena is a free spirit with a kind heart and desire to take care of others big and small. She may or may not pay attention to all the details but always finds a way to make whatever she is involved with very fun! Her sense of humor and desire to make others laugh and feel loved is one way to ensure an enjoyable ride!”

Mrs. Jennifer Geib to Raelynn Stoner – “Raelynn is an extremely hard worker and always makes the best out of situations. She works well with everyone and looks for ways to be a helpful student and classmate. She has been an absolute joy to have in the classroom and always seems to be enjoy the ride! Thank you for being such a joy!”

Mrs. Jill Gilson to Raylan Daugherty – “Raylan truly enjoys The Ride! From his ‘hug-attacks’ to his funny stories, he always brightens my day. Raylan is capable of finding joy in anything we do in the classroom. Keep the hugs and smiles coming, Raylan!”

Mrs. Kaitlea Hastert to Kenni Davis – “Kenni always enjoys the ride! She is always upbeat and happy about every situation. I can always count on Kenni to bring laughter and a good positive example to our class. Thanks, Kenni! Keep up the good work!”

Mrs. Wendy Hays to Bertie Meyerkorth – “Bertie has a super fun personality and can always be found smiling and laughing! She cares deeply for others and doesn’t hesitate to help anyone out. Bertie is not afraid to be herself and I LOVE that about her! She is always someone with a lot to talk about and brings a positive light to other students and staff members.”

Mrs. Carol Herron to Annabella Brion – “Annabella has done a remarkable job of enjoying the ride in our classroom. She works really hard to complete her work and participate in class lessons and always does so with a fun attitude.”

Mrs. Leigh Ann Lawrence to Wynne Griffin – “Wynne is always happy to be at school! She enjoys all of our activities. Wynne is great to step up and encourage her classmates to do their best. She can find a way to see the positive in situations and make the best of all situations and help her friends to do the same. Thanks Wynne for your sunny fun can do attitude!”

Ms. Teresa Mertens to Hendrix Lee – “Hendrix has been a positive addition to my classroom. He is a hard worker and does a really nice job at what I ask him to do. He works well with ALL students and focuses on the tasks that need to be completed. I am so blessed to have him in my classroom. Have a great summer Hendrix!”

Mrs. Sarah Millsap to Paislee Sollars – “Paislee has such a positive attitude and always has a smile on her face when she comes into our classroom. She is a hardworker and has accomplished so much this year. She is willing to help anyone at any time, works well with others and is such a caring soul. Paislee has been a joy to have in class! Keep shining girl!”

Ms. Sheena Roup to Lexi Culp – “Lexi has enjoyed the ride through kindergarten working hard learning many new things this year. When Lexi hits a bump she works through it and moves forward.”

Ms. Sheena Roup to Lucas Gibson – “I think it is safe to say that Lucas has enjoyed his ride through kindergarten. He comes with a smile each day and works hard keeping a positive attitude.”

Ms. Sheena Roup to Colton Jackson – “Colton is so excited to be at school every day, he arrives with a smile and works hard. Colton we are so proud of you and all of your hard work.”

Ms. Sheena Roup to Addaline Larson – “Addaline is so enthusiastic about learning. She has worked so hard this year to learn to read enjoying every moment.”

Mrs. Jennifer Rueckert to Rosie Leichliter – “Rosie is so happy every time I see her. She makes art with a cheerfulness that is contagious. I cannot think of one time I have seen Rosie when she was not wearing a smile. She is such a joy to be around!”

Mrs. Molly Spiegel to Adalyn Pemberton – “Adalyn’s positive energy and enthusiasm toward coming to STARS energizes the passengers on her “bus”! She is always verbally appreciative and thankful for everything we do in class. It’s just so fun to be around her. Adalyn loves life and is enjoying the ride with her warm smile and sweet disposition. She is a delightful girl.”

Mrs. Rachel Stanton to Harper Roup – “Harper has a positive attitude in our classroom! She is quick to make others laugh and her grin keeps me on my toes! 🙂 She likes to have a good time and definitely enjoys the ride. Thanks Harper for making me smile this year!”

Mrs. Rachel Stanton to Joci Culp – “Joci is always thinking of ways to make me smile. Joci has a very kind heart and a fun personality. She can even be slightly ornery if you can believe that! Thank you for making me stop and enjoy the ride this year Joci!”

Dr. Stephen Waigand to Avery Schomburg – “Avery always has a smile on her face and is quick to help others in need. A sure way to “Enjoy the Ride” is by serving others, and Avery does just that!”

Mrs. Tabitha Waigand to Maya Clodfelter – “Maya definitely enjoys the ride, and she makes the ride enjoyable for others too. Her smile will light up a room, and her giggle is contagaious. Having her in my classroom this year has made me stop to enjoy the ride so much more. Maya, thank you for your positivity and loving personality.”

Mrs. Lisa Weber to Chord Christians – “Chord is a person that takes the time to enjoy the ride. He always enters the classroom with a smile on his face. His sense of humor and positive attitude has made our fifth grade classroom a brighter place.”

Mrs. Jayme Wood to Kambrie Driskell – “Kambrie comes to school ready to enjoy the ride each day. She always stays on task and is quick to help anyone that needs it, whether it is to calm them down or help them with a problem. Thanks Kambrie for being such a joy this year both in and out of the class!”

School Year Reading Goals Championship

In lieu of the grade level attendance championship this year, the Championship Belt was awarded to the grade level with the highest percentage of reading goals met. Mrs. Gilson’s second grade classroom, with an 88.6% completion rate, was the winner.

Drawing for the $100 bill

Students earn tickets for a drawing for a $100 bill by meeting their reading goals each quarter. This year’s winner was Briar Daugherty.