
The Platte-Geddes Junior High and High School staff have started to create student spotlights for 6th through 12th graders. These spotlights are designed to shed light on the great things that the students are doing. Spotlights can be for anything that staff feels should be highlighted such as working hard in the classrooms, being a great person to others, helping out when needed, making good decisions, and numerous other things. Six Students are chosen each month and are featured on a bulletin board with their own poster.
Student Spotlights for February are Sydney Neuman, Kallie Walstad, Kiana Major, Claire Maydew, Jerni Severson, Tristen Petrik

Congratulations to Kasen Konstanz of the KWLPG Wrestling Team for his State Championship at 106 lbs!
Congratulations to the entire KWLPG Wrestling Team for an outstanding State Wrestling Tournament!

Congratulations to Kiana Major of the KWLPG Wrestling Team for winning the first ever Girls State Championship in Wrestling at 160 at the State Wrestling Tournament in Rapid City this weekend. Congratulations to Spencer Hanson for winning a State Wrestling Championship at 182.

Janaea Holleman received the Good News Call today for helping teachers on the recess playground. Janaea is a willing helping hand every single day when we are outside at recess. She happily assists us with getting students lined up and making sure all balls and equipment are picked up. She is a happy helper and a joy to have around. She is a great help and does so without ever being asked. Thank you Janaea for being a willing, joyful, and happy helper! And thanks for being such a great kiddo!

Lizzy Groon was nominated for the Good News Call for giving up a portion of her recess to assist Mrs. Knecht. She was nominated along with Randi Oberbroekling, Lydia Dyk, & McKenzie DeHaan for assisting in the lunchroom, however she was gone when we made the calls; so today, Lizzy made her call. These four girls noticed on their own that no one was staying to assist. They quickly and graciously volunteered to help wash the tables. What makes this Good News Call special is that the girls noticed, without being told, that a staff member needed assistance and they offered to do so. Thank you, ladies, for noticing something that needed to be done, and for offering on your own to assist. Your kindness and thoughtfulness to others IS noticed and appreciated. Thank you for being such AWESOME kiddos!

ParentGuidance.org
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/407156?org=pgsd

Region 3B Wrestling Results
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/405603?org=pgsd

Mrs. Daum's 3rd Graders had a special visit from high school basketball players Karsen Sondegroth and Dawson Hoffman. They gave away the Future Panther t-shirt to Kate Olson and the basketball to Lenlee Mills. Thank you to our sponsors this year Miller Insurance and Tim & Linda Whalen gave the basketball and Platte Food Center and C&D Electric donated the t-shirt.
Good Luck tonight to our Girls and Boys Panther Basketball Teams!!

Platte-Geddes Schools will open at 10 am on Tuesday, February 16. There will be no class for Half-Day Kindergarten students. The Geddes bus will leave promptly at 9:15.

There is will be no school on Monday, February 15, due to the predicted dangerous wind chill factor.

Randi Oberbroekling, Lydia Dyk, McKenzie DeHaan, and Lizzy Groon (not pictured) were nominated for the Good News Call for giving up a portion of their recess to assist Mrs. Knecht. Earlier this week, we didn't have table washers to assist in the lunchroom. These four girls noticed on their own that no one was staying to assist. They quickly and graciously volunteered to help wash the tables. What makes this Good News Call special is that the girls noticed, without being told, that a staff member needed assistance and they offered to do so. Thank you, ladies, for noticing something that needed to be done, and for offering on your own to assist. Your kindness and thoughtfulness to others IS noticed and appreciated. Thank you for being such AWESOME kiddos!

On Friday, February 12 we had a few Good News Calls for our students to make.....
Nikki VanderWerff was nominated for the Good News Call by Mrs. Gloria Kok. Mrs. Kok has noticed Nikki showing extreme kindness and friendliness to others. She has observed Nikki in countless situations assisting others, playing with those who are alone, and quietly seeking out others who need a friend and spending time with them. Our "Word of the Week "this week at school was "Friendliness" and Nikki is a wonderful example of that word. Thank you, Nikki, for your kindness to others and for being such a great kid!

Mrs. Nicki Nelson's 5th Graders had a special visit from high school basketball players Aiden Bultje and Katie Holter. They gave away the Future Panther t-shirt to Abigail Meyerink and the basketball to Hayden Strand. Thank you to our sponsors this year Miller Insurance and Tim & Linda Whalen gave the basketball and Platte Food Center and C&D Electric donated the t-shirt.

Mrs. Nelson's classroom had a visit from a couple of high school girls' basketball players today. Hadley Hanson and Karly VanderWerff gave away the Future Panther basketball and t-shirt. Holdyn Gallagher won the basketball; and Bentley Veurink won the t-shirt.
Thank you to our sponsors Miller Insurance and Tim & Linda Whalen ~ basketball and Platte Food Center and C&D Electric ~ t-shirt.

Mrs. Darcie DuFrain's 3rd Graders had a visit from basketball players Emerson Ringling, Baleigh Nachtigal, and Hayes Rabenberg. They gave away the Future Panther basketball and t-shirt. The basketball winner was Taylee Gant and the t-shirt winner was Henry Gaesser.
Thank you to our sponsors Miller Insurance and Tim & Linda Whalen ~ basketball and Platte Food Center and C&D Electric ~ t-shirt.

Our Good News Call of the Week this week goes out to Vivian Frandsen. Vivian was nominated for helping a friend clean up a spill in the lunchroom. A friend spilled her lunch, and Vivian noticed and jumped up and assisted immediately. Thank you, Vivian for being a great friend to others and for assisting them when they need help. We LOVE all of our helpers here at Platte Geddes Elementary!

Mrs. DuFrain's 2nd Grade classroom had a special visit from Platte Geddes Black Panther Basketball players Cadence VanZee and Cade Nachtigal. The winner of the t-shirt was Izabelle Yarbrough; and the winner of the basketball was Nolan Meyerink. Thank you to our sponsors Miller Insurance and Tim & Linda Whalen ~ basketball and Platte Food Center and C&D Electric ~ t-shirt.

Mrs. Frandsen's classroom had a special visit from Platte Geddes Black Panther Basketball players Caden Foxley and Jackson Neuman. The winners of the basketball and t-shirt were, respectively, Ryker Reddick and Oakley DuFrain. Thank you to our generous sponsors; Miller Insurance and Tim & Linda Whalen ~ basketball and Platte Food Center and C&D Electric ~ t-shirt.

Mrs. Nelson's 5th grade classroom had a 100 day challenge. They were challenged to complete all work, on time, and have the work in school to hand in .... for the first 100 days of school. Winners include Back Row L to R: Hadli Holzbauer, Rylee Reddick, Isaac Leader, Tyce VanderPol, Walter Gaaesser, Nikki VanderWerff. Front Row L to R: Adrian DeHaan, Sienna Varilek, Remington Meyerink, Bentley Veurink, Aiden Boltjes, Kamryn Brondsema. Congratulations! Great Work 5th Graders!!

Thank you to all the elementary parents who sent pictures for our 100th Day Celebration! Many of these pictures could win a photo contest. I'm certain the pets in our area will be very smart with all these little people reading to them. I'll share a few of the hundred + photos we received......Happy 100th Day of Learning at PG Elementary!!

Mrs. Neuman's classroom had a special visit from our Platte Geddes Panther Basketball Players. Brody Boltjes and Taryn Starr visited the classroom and presented first grader Ivy Samuelson with the Future Panther t-shirt (compliments of Platte Food Center, and C & D Electric). Not pictured is Liv Houdeshell, winner of the basketball (compliments of Miller Insurance, Tim & Linda Whalen). Liv was not in school today, however her classmates made sure to put the basketball on her chair for when she returns to school tomorrow. Thank you to our basketball players and to the sponsors of the program. Good Luck Panthers!!

Mrs. Rolland's first graders had a visit from our basketball teams today. Nate Whalen and Madison Nachtigal gave away another basketball and t-shirt to a couple of Future Panthers. Henry Hegge was the lucky winner of the basketball and Harbour Wallace won the t-shirt. Thank you to our sponsors Miller Insurance, Tim & Linda Whalen, Platte Food Center, and C & D Electric.

Mrs. DeVries' Kindergarten classroom had a few visitors today. Basketball players Brady Sprik, Kelby VanderWerff, and Regan Hoffman came in to present the Future Panther basketball and t-shirt. Our Kindergarten winners today were Eliza Flores and Kai Janish. Congratulations Future Panthers and Good Luck tonight Panthers.

Dear Platte-Geddes Elementary Parents,
We have made a few changes to the Future Panther Basketball Program to include more students; and due to the Covid 19 pandemic. We felt that fewer students would be attending games in person this year. We also felt that it would not be wise to have our young students on the basketball court prior to a basketball game. Therefore, we to have invited our high school basketball players to bring the basketballs and t-shirts to the classrooms each week.
We started the program today with Mrs. Holleman's Kindergarten classroom. The basketball players drew student names for the t-shirt and for the basketball. (All players who come into our classrooms wear their masks and only removed them briefly for the photo.)
Pictured above are basketball players Will Miller and Avery DeVries along with Mr. Cutler; PG Athletic Director and Head Boys' Basketball Coach.
This week's winners:
Remi Reddick won the basketball (donated by Miller Insurance and Tim & Linda Whalen).
Mila Duffy won the t-shirt (donated by Platte Food Center and C&D Electric).
Jennifer Knecht
Elementary Principal/SPED Director
Platte-Geddes School District

We have a Good New Call to start off our New Year of 2021! Congratulations to Jemma Severson. Jemma was nominated for the Good News Call by her teacher, Mrs. Holleman, for cleaning up the paper towels in the bathroom every single day. She doesn’t make the mess, but she ALWAYS picks up all the paper towels that are on the floor. She is very respectful to her classmates, and the work she does helps to keep our school looking great. She never has to be told to help clean up, she just always does it! Thank you, Jemma, way to go! Keep up the great work!

Hanson Classic Live Stream Information:
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/374366?org=pgsd

Sanford Pentagon Heritage Classic Livestream Information
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/372772?org=pgsd

Santa's Elves were hard at work this week at Platte Geddes Elementary. These three delightful Elves; Danni Schuman, Emma Samuelson, and Ella Schrank, took it upon themselves to wipe every single lunchroom table this week, both Monday and Tuesday. "Santa" had not assigned lunchroom helpers this week and these three realized there was no one on table duty and assigned themselves. They saw what needed to be done; and eagerly and happily did the job. We are so thankful for our wonderful and helpful students and for their willingness to assist us with our day-to-day tasks. Thank you, girls for the work and the smiles.
Have a blessed Christmas! I hope you are all staying warm during this first December blizzard of the season. Jennifer

Our Elementary Christmas Concert for students in K-4 will be held tomorrow, Thursday, December 17 @ 7:00 pm. We are having one performance only this year @ 7:00 pm in the armory gymnasium. The public is invited to attend. Masks are required for students and adult attendees. Thank you.

Announcement from the Platte-Geddes School District:
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/368235?org=pgsd

We have a Good News Call going out this week to Emilia Dellerud. Emilia is an example of a "Happy Helper", our December Shout Out. Each day in the lunchroom, she quickly jumps up and assists students when they spill something on the floor. She is always willing to wipe tables and offers on a daily basis to help us get caught up with the lunchroom transition. Thank you Emilia for being a happy helper and for seeing what needs to be done and doing the job. Keep up the great work.

We have a Good News Call going out today to Dominick Schoenrock. Dominick is an AMAZING helper to Mrs. Brumbaugh and an AMAZING worker on his schoolwork. He has been helping her clean out a storage room and he is all work, no messing around. He is there to help her get the job done every day. His teacher Mrs. Frandsen agrees that he is an awesome helper in the classroom too. Thank you, Dom, for being such a hard worker when doing your school work and when assisting with a job that needs to be done. We appreciate your work ethic, and we know it will take you places in life. Keep up the great work!

Joel Bailey is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Platte-Geddes School District December School Board Meeting
Time: Dec 14, 2020 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
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High School Student Drop-Off Trial
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/364322?org=pgsd

Holiday Greetings Platte Geddes Elementary Parents and Staff Members,
As we approach this Holiday Season, we decided to reach out to you to and let you know some items we are in need of here at the Elementary School. If you have some of these items that your children have outgrown and you would be willing to send them to the school, we would greatly appreciate the generosity.
*Children's tennis shoes to be used on the gym floor for PE. These can be in good clean used condition or new.
*Youth sweatpants (sizes 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) for boys or girls and/or leggings for girls (We use these items for students who have accidents, fall in water or spill something, or if they tear the pants they are wearing. Most of these incidents happen in our Kindergarten or Grade 1 kiddos, so small sizes are what we try to keep on hand.)
*Children's snow boots or snow pants
If you have these items, you may send them with your kids and have them bring them to the office and give to Carol or myself. Thank you and Merry Christmas! Jennifer

Our "Good News Call" this week goes out to Eli Elwanger. Eli's teacher, Mrs. Neuman nominated Eli for the Good News Call for taking the time each and every day to clean her sink before he leaves school. He takes the time to wipe out the sink and make sure it is clean for the next school day. Eli says that one day he hopes to be a school custodian, just like Mike. I think that everyone here at the elementary school would agree that Mike A is about as great a role model as anyone could have. Thanks Eli for cleaning the sink and for being a great kid!

The Good News Call this week goes out to three AWESOME 5th graders. Tyce VanderPol, Easton Schuman, and Kori VanderWerff have done an excellent job of modeling our word of the week; Gratitude. These three table washers went above and beyond with their table washing duties. Each day, they washed their tables, and came over to personally thank Mrs. Knecht for assisting them. They noticed that the little kids were having trouble getting their tables washed, so they grabbed a wash rag and started helping the little kids wash tables too.
We have awesome days at school because of great kiddos like these three who see what needs to be done; they don't ask questions or complain; they just grab a wash rag and help out. Thank you for modeling Gratitude by being thankful and for saying Thank You. Thank you for seeing where we needed help, and for going above and beyond your duties to help our lunchroom run smoothly. And thank you for being great kiddos!

The Region V JH Festival concert will be live streamed at 2:30 today via www.blackpantherslive.com

The middle school girls' basketball games scheduled for today against Gregory have been postponed.

Link to Platte-Geddes School Board November Meeting:
Joel Bailey is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Platte-Geddes November School Board Meeting
Time: Nov 9, 2020 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
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Good afternoon.
Thank you all for your patience and cooperation. At 5:00 p.m. central time today, the general public will be able to order tickets to the state football championships in Vermillion for this weekend. Tickets can be ordered either by phone at 605-677-5959 or by email at tickets@usd.edu.
Of special note, as live representatives are limited and unable to take each call live, please leave a voicemail or send an email to the USD ticket office if you do not have your call answered by a representative. Those messages will be returned as soon as the next representative becomes available to do so.
Walk up sales will also be available for contest in Vermillion on the day of the games. Should any contests sell out, we will send out a notification to statewide media and schools.
Thank you!
Dr. John Krogstrand
Asst. Exec. Director
SDHSAA

Greetings.
Due to the high volume of sales requests, general public ticket sales for the football championships are being delayed.
A formal announcement will be made at 3:00 p.m. Central Time today informing members of the public when they can reach out to USD ticket office to make purchases.
For the time being, only those with presale access codes are allowed to contact the ticket office for purchase requests. we ask that those without a code please refrain from contacting the tickets office until further instructions follow to ensure that we can get the player's families first priority on ticket sales.
Thank you.
Dr. John Krogstrand
Asst. Exec. Director
SDHSAA

The SDHSAA is delaying State Football tickets sales for the general public. They are working with the USD Ticketing Office to determine if ticket sales will begin at 6 p.m. tonight, or tomorrow morning. Once a decision is made, we will let you know.

The SDHSAA is delaying State Football tickets sales for the general public. They are working with the USD Ticketing Office to determine if ticket sales will begin at 6 p.m. tonight, or tomorrow morning. Once a decision is made, we will let you know.

State Football Ticket Information:
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/343035?org=pgsd

Maverick Maydew was nominated for the Good News Call by Mrs. Dewet. Mrs. Dewet has noticed that Maverick comes to the library every day for reading interventions ready to work. Maverick works hard staying focused and taking his time to always do his very best work. Most days, Maverick is the last one to leave the library because he walks around every table making sure all the chairs are pushed in for the next group of students. Thank you, Maverick for being ready to work hard each and every day and for helping me keep the library in tip top shape. Maverick, we appreciate your kindness, thoughtfulness, and your help in school. Thanks for being such a great kiddo!

Dear Platte Geddes Elementary Parents;
Governor Noem Announces K-12 Connect
Governor Kristi Noem has announced the launch of K-12 Connect, a program to provide internet service at no cost to eligible K-12 students in their homes for the remainder of the 2020-21 school year.
Eligible households will receive a letter indicating eligibility and identifying a telecommunications company to call to access free internet service through K-12 Connect. Letters were mailed October 26. To enroll, eligible households must call the telecommunications company noted in their letter to set up service. Providers will install the necessary equipment on a first-come, first-serve basis. Internet service will be provided through June 30, 2021. After that time, the household must return the equipment to the provider or continue services at the household's expense.
Eligible households must meet all of the following requirements:
Have at least one student currently enrolled in an accredited South Dakota K-12 school; and
Must meet the income eligibility guidelines for the free and reduced school lunch program; and
The household must not have been subscribed to a fixed broadband internet service as of July 1, 2020.
Enrollment closes Nov. 20, 2020. K-12 Connect is a partnership of the South Dakota Governor’s Office, Bureau of Information and Telecommunications, Department of Education, and participating telecommunications companies.
If you have not received a letter, but believe your household is eligible, please call (605) 773-3248 or email k12connect@state.sd.us. Or you may call our local provider, Midstate Communications at 778-6221.
Telecommunications companies who are participating in K-12 Connect include:
Alliance Communications Cooperative
Beresford Municipal Telephone Company
Faith Municipal Telephone Company
Fort Randall Telephone Company
Golden West Telecommunications
Interstate Telecommunications Cooperative
Kennebec Telephone Company
Long Lines Broadband
Midco
Midstate Communications
RC Technologies
Santel Communications Cooperative
Swiftel Communications/Brookings Municipal Telephone
TrioTel Communications
Valley Telecommunications Cooperative
Vast
Venture Communications Cooperative
West River Cooperative Telephone Company
West River Telecommunications Cooperative
Have a great day!
Kathy Holter
Business Manager
Platte-Geddes School District #11-5
Telephone: 605-337-3391 ext. 117
Jennifer Knecht
Elementary Principal/SPED Director
Platte-Geddes School District

Just a couple of reminders of upcoming events at Platte Geddes Elementary.....
*There will be NO SCHOOL on Friday, October 23, 2020 due to staff development for our teachers.
*We will celebrate HALLOWEEN on Friday, October 30, 2020. Your child's classroom teacher will be sending specific party and costume information. We request that students do not bring "community treats" for the entire classroom this year and only bring a drink and snack for themselves. Thank you.

This Good News Call goes out to Harbour Wallace! Harbour was nominated by Mrs. Gloria Kok. This morning Harbour noticed a student that was having a tough morning and didn't want to go outside for recess. Harbour took the time to go over and help the student get their hat and mittens on to go outside. He encouraged the student to come outside with him and play, and it worked. Thank you Harbour for taking the time to notice that another student wasn't having a great day and for helping out a friend that needed a little boost. Way to go Harbour!! We are proud of you and we appreciate the kindness shown to others.

We have another Good News Call going out this week to Merrick Kimball. Merrick was nominated for the Good News Call by his teacher, Mrs. Nicole DeVries. Merrick was caught helping another student stack the chairs at her table at the end of the day. The other kids at her table were gone, so he noticed that she needed some help and he went right over to help her. Thank you Merrick for watching out for the other students in our class and for taking the initiative to help, even if no one told you to! Keep up the great work Merrick!

Aren't these two the cutest littles you've seen all day? 😊😊❤️❤️
Jacoby Severson and Bowen Michael were nominated for the Good News Call by Mrs. Sandy DuFrain. Jacoby and Bowen noticed a hole in the playground, and they took the "initiative" (our word of the week....) to fill the hole with rocks so that no one would step in it and get hurt. Their act of kindness and respect for others was noticed by Mrs. Sandy DuFrain. Bowen and Jacoby, thank you for modeling our word of the week "initiative" and for noticing a potential problem for others and helping us take care of it. We appreciate your very KIND and RESPECTFUL act. And we LOVE your beautiful smiles and the happiness you bring to our school each and every day! Thanks for being such great kiddos!

We regret to inform you that the home Cheer/Dance Competition scheduled for Saturday, October 17 has been canceled due to COVID concerns.

October 14, 2020
Dear Platte-Geddes Elementary Parents and Guardians,
Platte-Geddes School District’s application for free school breakfast and lunch has been approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The school district will provide free breakfast and lunch for all students enrolled in the school district. If your student wishes to purchase extra entrees (seconds), milk, or other food items, please be aware that this will be charged to their account.
The program runs from October 1st until May 19th. The school district will credit your child’s account from October 1st through October 13th. If your student/s has a negative lunch account balance, the school encourages families to please pay off these balances.
Remote learners may sign up to receive meals. We ask parents/guardians to please contact Food Service Director, Kathryn Harrington, at 605-337-2468 if you would like to sign up for your remote learner to receive breakfast or lunch. Grab-n-go meals, which would include lunch and breakfast for the next day, may be picked up on the north side of the elementary building between 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you,
Kathy Holter
Business Manager
Platte-Geddes School District
Jennifer Knecht
Elementary Principal/SPED Director
Platte-Geddes School District

Joel Bailey is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Platte-Geddes School Board October Meeting
Time: Oct 12, 2020 07:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)
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Lenlee Mills was nominated for the Good News Call by Mrs. Knecht. Lenlee offers to assist Mrs. Knecht with lunchroom duties such as wiping tables and cleaning up messes almost every day. Today, Lenlee helped several small children carry the pumpkins they won to their classrooms. She noticed that the pumpkins were way to heavy for the little kids and she came back to the multi-purpose room no fewer than 4 times to carry pumpkins for those students. Lenlee is a happy helper. She notices little jobs that need to be done and she happily offers to assist in completing them. Her kindness to others is noticed and appreciated. Thank you Lenlee for the help and kindness, and for being such a great example to others.

Greetings Platte Geddes Elementary Parents;
We will be hosting our annual flu shot clinic for students and staff members on Monday, October 12, 2020. We host this flu shot clinic in coordination with our local Platte Avera Medical Clinic. Please read the letter below and fill out the attached document prior to the flu clinic. Students and staff members receiving a flu shot will be required to wear a mask while they receive their shot. The school will have masks available for anyone in need.
Dear Parents:
The Platte Medical Clinic offers seasonal influenza vaccine for children through 18 years. Influenza vaccination helps protect children from the flu and its complications and decreases the spread of influenza in the community, as children are often a great transport mechanism of the disease to adults and other children.
The CDC believes it’s likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both be spreading this fall and winter. In this context, getting a flu vaccine will be more important than ever. The CDC recommends that all people 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccine.
In an effort to provide vaccinations conveniently, the Platte Medical Clinic will provide vaccines at the Platte-Geddes School on October 12. We will again be using preservative-free vaccine for all children's vaccinations this year.
If you would like your child to receive the influenza vaccine on October 12:
Please review the attached vaccine information statement carefully. This is yours to keep; you do not need to return it to the school.
Complete the consent form and return it to the school by October 12.
The Platte Medical Clinic now bills insurance for influenza vaccine.
Please include a copy of your insurance card with the consent, if possible. If you are unable to include a copy of the card, please write the insurance number and the name and birthdate of the policyholder on the consent form.
If your health insurance does not cover the vaccine at 100%, please check the line marked "health insurance does not pay for vaccines.” If you do not check this line and your insurance does not cover the vaccine at 100%, you will receive a bill for the vaccine or co-pay. The total cost is $40.00
If your child does not have insurance coverage, vaccine is available at no cost for your child through a federal vaccine program.
If you have any questions please contact the Platte Medical Clinic at 605-337-1501. Thank you in advance for your help in keeping your child healthy through this challenging year!

Corbin Bogenhagen was nominated for the "Good News Call" by our administrative assistant, Ember Bartles. Ember has noticed that Corbin is extremely helpful in the lunchroom. He has been observed picking up food that has fallen on the floor, even when it is not his own food to pick up. Corbin has also been observed on multiple occasions picking up garbage from the lunchroom floor, even when the garbage is not his to pick up. He is a student who sees what needs to be done, and then he does the job! He lets other students go ahead of him in line when they are putting in their lunch numbers, getting seconds, and chips or a cookie. His classroom teacher, Mrs. Nicole DeVries agrees that Corbin is a great kid who is very deserving of the Good News Call. Thank you Corbin for being a great example of the Panther Way.

The high school volleyball match scheduled for Thursday against Lyman has been cancelled. The volleyball team will now be traveling to Canistota. The junior varsity game begins at 6:15, with the varsity game to follow.

The JV and junior high football games scheduled for tomorrow at Lyman have been canceled. A junior high game has been scheduled with TDA-AC/DC in Platte with a 4:30 start. There will not be a JV game.

Gatlin Doney and Reece Burket were nominated for the Good News Call by Mrs. Amy Rolland. Mrs. Rolland's class left school yesterday and their hallway was left in a mess. The students PE shoes and bags were left on the floor and things were in disarray in their hallway. Gatlin and Reece noticed what had happened and they quickly stepped in and straightened the entire hallway for Mrs. Rolland. That is exactly what we like to see boys, students who notice what needs to be done; and then they step in and do it.....without even being told to do so by a teacher. Thanks for noticing the mess boys and for cleaning it up, even when YOU didn't make the mess. We appreciate the kind and thoughtful gesture! Thanks for being AWESOME, Reece and Gatlin!

Wyatt Greisse was nominated for the Good News Call by Mrs. Knecht. A student was not ready to come in from the recess playground and Wyatt stepped in and assisted Mrs. Knecht by encouraging the student and convincing him it was indeed time to come in. Thank you Wyatt for noticing that Mrs. Knecht needed help and for stepping in and helping her out. I appreciate your help very much and I couldn't have done the task myself!! Thank you for being a great kid, Wyatt!!

*Thank you to Ashley Frederick and her family for the donation of Tupperware water bottles for students. Through her Tupperware business and other individual donations, she was able to donate three water bottles per elementary classroom. In total, we received over 50 water bottles for student use from Ashley and her family. These water bottles have been distributed to each elementary classroom for teachers to give to students needing a water bottle. We also have several left in the office for student use.
*Thank you to the South Dakota National Guard for their donation of water bottles to our students. They have been distributed to students forgetting their watter bottle for the day or needing one for their use. Trust me when I say, we are putting these water bottle donations to very good use.

*Thank you to our local Modern Woodmen Insurance Office and Lynn Walstad and Marcella Strand for another kind and generous donation to our school. We received six infared thermometers for our use in taking temperatures of ill children and adults in our buildings. We placed these thermometers in both buildings for our use in the continued effort toward student and staff health and wellness. Modern Woodmen Insurance also donated 3 UVC lamps which we will use in our STEAM classroom, overnight and between classes when students and staff are not in the room, to clean and disinfect the shared materials.
(According to the US Food and Drug Administration .....UVC radiation is a known disinfectant for air, water, and nonporous surfaces. UVC radiation has effectively been used for decades to reduce the spread of bacteria. For this reason, UVC lamps are often called "germicidal" lamps.)

Dear Platte Geddes Elementary Parents;
Next week, September 21-25 is Homecoming here at Platte Geddes Schools. We are celebrating Homecoming with the theme of "Homecoming through the Decades". We will observe the dress up days each day next week with the HS students. We will also take part in the Homecoming Parade on Friday beginning at 10:30 am. Your child's classroom teacher will provide specific information as to their parade theme and student attire. I have listed for you the dress up days as well as our plan for the Homecoming Parade on Friday. Please read the information below and pass along to any other parents you feel may not see this information.
As always, we are so thankful for another great week of "in person" school and of continued health. Thank you for sending us such a group of wonderful and joyful children! It is a pleasure to come to work and see them each day! Have a wonderful weekend ahead!
Dress Up Days...
Monday ~ PJ Day....Students and Staff Members may wear PJ's to School
Tuesday ~ Groutfit Day/Hat Day.....Students and Staff Members may wear "all grey outfits" and add a HAT for fun!
Wednesday ~ America.....Wear RED, WHITE, and BLUE
Thursday ~ Dress in your favorite Decade Apparel
Friday ~ Maroon and White ~ Go PANTHERS
Homecoming Parade Information.....
*The parade will start at 10:30 am. Our students will all walk in the parade.
*Our students in grades K-2 will walk a shortened parade route. They will start at Severson Service Station entering the parade between Severson's and the theatre. They will walk to the lot at Stekly Law Office. K-2 students will watch the parade from this lot. We will then have parents who are able to do so, pick up their child following the parade at the Stekly Law Office lot. Please inform your child's teacher if this will NOT work for you. (We will have the Stekly Law Office lot RESERVED for Elementary Students, so please spread the word that we will be using that lot for elementary students.)
*Students in grades 3-5 will walk the entire parade route. They will stop along the parade route and watch the parade and then walk back to our north parking lot and be released from school to walk home or be picked up by a parent. Again, please communicate with your child's classroom teacher if you have specific instructions.
Please call the office if you have questions about any of our Homecoming plans for next week.
Thank you, Jennifer

Today's middle school volleyball matches against Gregory will be played in the armory gym and the high school team will practice in the multipurpose room.

Joel Bailey is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: September School Board Meeting
Time: Sep 15, 2020 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://sdk12.zoom.us/j/92289311153?pwd=eDROQmk2Wk1LL3JkMHR6ekxoQWZYdz09
Meeting ID: 922 8931 1153
Passcode: 469998
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Meeting ID: 922 8931 1153
Passcode: 469998
Find your local number: https://sdk12.zoom.us/u/asyYZ5dfQ

Picture re-takes will be held at the Platte Geddes Schools on September 21. If you would like your child to receive re-takes, or if your child did not originally have their photo taken, please plan on September 21 to have a school photo taken.
*If you are having your child do a re-take, you must send back the original package of photos. They will be replaced, at no cost to you, with the new re-take photo packet.
*If you are placing an "original" or first time order, please let us know and we will get you an envelope order form. You can no longer order on-line and must order through the picture envelopes. We have many available, so please let us know if you need one.
Please call us at the school if you have any questions regarding picture re-takes. Thank you!

The varsity volleyball team will be participating in the Bridgewater-Emery tournament in Emery on Saturday, September 19. More details will be shared when they become available.

Today's middle school volleyball match at AC/DC will begin at 3:45, not 4 pm.
The varsity volleyball triangular scheduled for this Saturday has been cancelled.

Today's JV and middle school football games against Parkston will begin at 4pm at the Athletic Complex. The JV game will be played first, followed by the middle school game.
The middle school football team will travel to Gregory on Thursday, September 17 for a 4 o'clock game against the Gorillas.

We have GOOD NEWS….Ashley Stekly was observed last week showing exceptional kindness and helpfulness to a student needing assistance. Ashley was observed getting a lunch tray, helping with books, and pushing the wheelchair of a student in need. Ashley is such a kind and thoughtful young girl. She is a person who models our Word of the Week of "RESPECT" to others in our school each day. Ashley, thank you for being so kind, thoughtful, and respectful to others.

The Cross Country meet scheduled for today at Scotland has been postponed until Thursday.

The junior high football game scheduled for today is Gregory has been postponed.

As an elementary staff, at our first meeting, we agreed to continue the "Good News Calls" this school year. We agreed that with so much negativity going on around us, our kiddos need some positives to look forward to at school. We will have "Good News Calls" and "Shout Outs" for our students; as well as our "Pink Panther Way Positive Notes".
I'm happy to report that on Friday, we made our first "Good News Call" of the school year:
Holdyn Gallagher earned the Good News Call on Friday. He was nominated for the call by our school counselor, Mrs. Konechne. Holdyn showed great kindness in our lunchroom by grabbing a dish cloth and helping Mrs. K. and Mrs. Knecht wipe lunch tables following elementary lunch. We asked him if he was on “table wiping duty", and he said, “No I’m just helping you wipe the tables.” He helped us wipe all tables; saving us a huge amount of work. He also helped the cooks with the silverware, and then he asked if he could assist with anything else. Thank you Holdyn for making the day easier and brighter for someone else.

5 Tips to Prepare Kids for Pandemic Back to School
https://www.avera.org/app/files/public/77807/Tips-for-Pandemic-Back-to-School.pdf

Protect Yourself & Others Against COVID-19
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/288514?org=pgsd

The link below will take you to a recording of last night's Return to Learn Plan Presentation. If you have questions regarding the plan, please email the building principals or superintendent.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j41C0UFK4Rs&feature=youtu.be

Return to Learn Plan Presentation Information:
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/284859?org=pgsd

Joel Bailey is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Platte-Geddes School District August Board Meeting
Time: Aug 10, 2020 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88068061305?pwd=OE1Od09ZOTZzUDhTNlVwMGZxS2IxQT09
Meeting ID: 880 6806 1305
Passcode: 3UzPy5

Joel Bailey is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Platte-Geddes School District Special Board Meeting
Time: Aug 4, 2020 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83220543139?pwd=dUVGMXZwdlJIUCszalF5MzJONy82QT09
Meeting ID: 832 2054 3139
Passcode: 0kVHri

2020 SENIOR TEA WILL FINALLY TAKE PLACE!
2020 senior girls and their mothers will get a chance to attend the previously postponed Senior Tea on Wednesday, July 29, 4:00 pm, at the Trinity Lutheran Church. Invitations to follow.

2020 SENIOR TEA WILL FINALLY TAKE PLACE!
2020 senior girls and their mothers will get a chance to attend the previously postponed Senior Tea on Wednesday, July 29, 4:00 pm, at the Trinity Lutheran Church. Invitations to follow.

The Platte-Geddes Athletic Complex will be closed until the track resurfacing project has been completed. The estimated completion date is Thursday, July 9. Thank You!

Summer Food Options
Please click the link below to see the Summer Food Options for Students
https://5il.co/hsrj

Platte-Geddes Weight Room and Gym Use Summer Guidelines:
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/254403?org=pgsd

Graduation Photos:
https://www.apptegy.net/s/news-pgsd/articles/graduation-photos

2020 Athletic Banquet/Awards
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/252187?org=pgsd

Finalized Graduation Plans:
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/249767?org=pgsd

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for May 18-May 20
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/8RCHSWD

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for May 11-May 15
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GTPT729

Platte-Geddes School Board Special Board Meeting
https://www.apptegy.net/s/news-pgsd/articles/special-school-board-meeting-agenda

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for May 4-May 8
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PNQ5K2R

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for April 27-May 1
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/W7TLJ36

Sideline and Competitive Cheer
https://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/235898?org=pgsd

Butterbraids! See attached photo! Contact a band member or Mr. Patzlaff before May 4th with your order!! Jeff.Patzlaff@k12.sd.us

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for April 20-April 24
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FDQSWVW

ATTENTION DRIVER EDUCATION STUDENTS AND PARENTS:
http://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/230901?org=pgsd

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for April 14-April 17
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/N9PCBH6

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for April 14-April 17
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/N9PCBH6

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for Tuesday, April 7 through Thursday, April 9. We will not have the program on April 10 or April 13.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FFN9588

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for Monday, April 6:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6SWBYKK

Breakfast/Lunch Survey for April 3
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WJ2YLLZ

Breakfast/Lunch Survey for April 2
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VKSWWRG

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for April 1
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JNJ55ZL

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for 3-31-20
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LGXWMLR

Mr. Kemnitz's Workout of the Week:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyYih8z8JTA&feature=youtu.be

E-Learning Survey
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YLC5276

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for March 30
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y95LCFM

School Closing Checkpoint Article:
https://www.apptegy.net/s/news-pgsd/articles/school-closing-checkpoint

School Board Election Information:
http://www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us/article/220780?org=pgsd

The Breakfast/Lunch program has been going very well and we are happy to provide this service. Out of courtesy for those preparing the meals, we ask that you complete the survey every day so we can have accurate numbers.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HV67599

If you want to participate in the school Breakfast/Lunch Program on Thursday, March 26 please complete the survey.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DFF63VB

Breakfast/Lunch Participation Survey for March 25
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6JQNW2S

Based on Governor Noem's mandate, Platte-Geddes Schools will be closed next Monday-Wednesday, in conjunction with spring break on Thursday and Friday. If you are in need of breakfast and lunch, please contact the school and leave a message on the secretary's voicemail. Thank You

Good News Call
We have a Good News Call today going out to Terrence VanZee. Terrence was nominated for the Good News Call by his teacher, Mrs. Johnson. Mrs. Johnson stated that Terrence was lining up for school this morning and he noticed that one of his friends did not have his backpack. He went over and picked up the backpack and handed it to his friend. Thank you, Terrence, for noticing that your friend was going in to school without his backpack and for assisting him. Thank you for showing kindness to others. Here is Terrence sharing his good news with his Mom.

Greetings Parents,
School will dismiss at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 due to the "Sweet 16 Boys Basketball Playoff Game" being played in Ft. Pierre at 6:00 PM that evening. Please spread the word to any and all parents you feel may not receive this e-mail or other notices we send.
GO PANTHERS!!
Thank you,
Jennifer Knecht
Elementary Principal

We have another "Good News Call of the Week" to end our WONDERFUL week of Dr. Seuss Reading and Fun! Congratulations to Logan Ringling. Logan was nominated for the Good News Call by her teacher, Mrs. Neuman. Mrs. Neuman was outside on the recess playground and she observed Logan notice a Kindergarten girl who was playing alone. Logan went directly to the child, and asked her to play with her. Mrs. Neuman saw the child's face light up as she accepted the offer to play with Logan. Thank you Logan for displaying such great kindness to a young child. Thank you for modeling to our young students, and to everyone, the need to include others when we play. And thank you for modeling the Panther Way Expectation of Kindness. Here is sweet Logan calling her mom, Amy.

Bohde Kuiper is our Good News Call this week! Bohde was nominated for the Good News Call by Mr. Kemnitz. Mr. Kemnitz was picking up PE equipment to take to the Colony sites for class, and Bohde noticed he had a lot to pick up, put away, and carry; so he asked Mr. Kemnitz if he needed help. Then Bohde happily jumped in and assisted him with the task. Mr. Kemnitz reported, “Having Bohde help me move equipment made a task that would have taken me 15 minutes, last only 2-3 minutes because we were working together. “ Thanks Bohde for noticing that Mr. Kemnitz need help and for helping him. Also, thanks for your lovely smile all day every day!

More photos of Coach Cutler......
Turns out the PG Black Panther Basketball Team got good at basketball by practicing and working hard on their basketball skills. Mr. Cutler shared with our students that whatever you are doing, reading or sports or anything.....practice makes you better at that skill. Thanks Coach Cutler for reading to our kiddos.

We are celebrating Dr. Seuss Week this week at Platte Geddes Elementary. We are pleased to have many guest readers in our building assisting us with the celebration. We have the Platte Geddes High School Cheerleaders and Boys Basketball Teams in our classrooms. Thank you for sharing your love of reading with us. Here is cheerleader, Kally Millar.

Next week, March 2-6 we will be celebrating Dr. Seuss' Birthday.
We will be having the High School Boys Basketball Team and the Platte Geddes Cheerleaders in our elementary classrooms to read with the students. We will have dress up days and fun activities planned in our classrooms all week. Our dress up days are listed below:
Monday ~ The Cat in the Hat Hat Day;
Tuesday ~ Fox in Sox Fun Socks;
Wednesday ~ I Can Read with my Eyes Shut Wear clothing with WORDS;
Thursday ~ Green Eggs and Ham Green Day;
Friday ~ The Sleep Book PJ Day;
Your children are welcome to join us in each of these dress up days! Have a wonderful weekend.

Shooter Frederick was nominated for the Good News Call of the Week by Mrs. Kalli Oolman. Mrs. Oolman noticed that her students' shoes were all over the hallway after school one day and she began organizing them. Shooter noticed what she was doing, stopped what he was doing, and jumped right in and helped Mrs. Oolman get the shoes all lined up. Shooter has also been spotted many times helping sweep the gymnasium at basketball games. We appreciate the help, Shooter. Thanks for noticing what needs to be done and for jumping in to help in these situations.
Thank you for showing the Panther Way traits of Respect and Responsibility.

We have our first order of elementary PANTHER t-shirts, and they look AWESOME! Thank you to Joely and Alisha @ JD's for the fast and fabulous work on the PG Elementary Shirts.
We are asking our students to wear their new shirts or any PG Black Panther gear they may have to school tomorrow, Wednesday, February 26 as we have been invited to the State Tournament "send-off/pep rally" Celebration for our KWLPG Wrestlers.
If you did not purchase a t-shirt and would still like one, we will be doing a second order in a few weeks. (We will also purchase a t-shirt for any student, just let us know.) We would like every child who wants a t-shirt to have a t-shirt.

Just a note this afternoon to let you know that tonight's basketball games will be starting at 3:00 pm. Parking around our building will most likely be affected by these games. We will be outside assisting students with walking across the streets and with finding their parents.

Also presenting on February 13 will be Special Agent Kendra Russell with the SD DCI. Kendra specializes in digital evidence & is a member of the SD Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Agent Russell will be presenting information on Internet Safety and Cyberbullying.

The PG School District invites all K-12 parents to an assembly to be held in the Armory gym on Thursday, February, 13th at 6 pm. SD Highway Parol Troopers Shane Johnson & Deanna Johnson will provide information on drug trends, names, and how to recognize drug use.

Youth Basketball Camp will be held this week on Friday, Feb 14th at 9am due to the high school boys having a game in Mitchell on Saturday morning. Our last class will be on Saturday, Feb. 22nd at 9am. Please e-mail or call Mr. Kemnitz with questions about Youth Basketball Camp.

It is time for our 4th and 5th grade boys to register for the Let Me Run program. This is a great program that focuses on boys being physically, mentally and emotionally healthy.If you have any questions, please text or call Karen Lang at 207-0126.

The Parkston Classic basketball games that were scheduled for Saturday, January 18 have been canceled.

Due to potential winter storm, Platte-Geddes Schools will be closed on Friday, January 17.

The high school basketball teams will be hosting a basketball camp for girls and boys in grades 2-5. The camp will be held Saturday mornings beginning at 9 am tomorrow, January 4, 2020. The cost is $20 and includes a t-shirt.If you have questions please contact Mr. Kemnitz.

The Parkston Classic basketball games scheduled for today, December 30, have been postponed.

The Parkston Classic which was scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed:
Girls game Monday, December 30 at 1:00
Boys game Tuesday, December 31 at 1:30

5th Grade Science Fair
The 5th graders are busy working on their science fair projects. You are invited to attend their annual science fair which will be held on Friday, December 20, 2019 in the PG Elementary Multi Purpose Room from 1:00-2:00.

Congratulations to the following TEN PG Elementary students chosen for SD Elementary Honors Choir: Cassie Groon, Charly Veurink, Dulcie Veurink, Claire Maydew, Kala Maxon, Ava Olson, McKenzie DeHaan, Leah Schuman, Abigail Meyerink, and Brynn Meyerink.
We are PROUD of you!

Platte-Geddes Schools will have a 10 am start on Monday, December 2. There is no half-day Kindergarten class. The Geddes bus leaves at 9:15. No morning basketball practices. Thank You!

Platte-Geddes Schools will dismiss at 12:22 on Tuesday, November 26 and there will be no school on Wednesday, November 27.

Platte-Geddes School District has an opening for a paraprofessional at Cedar Grove Colony School. If you are interested in the position, contact Joel Bailey at 605-337-3391 or vial email at joel.bailey@k12.sd.us

Tomorrow's High School Musical Festival in Gregory has been postponed to Monday, December 2. Aside from the change in date, everything else remains the same. Thank You!

In the first round of Region 6B volleyball action, the Lady Black Panthers will host Marty Indian on Monday, November 4. Game time is set for 7 p.m.

Greetings,
We are in the process of completing a school improvement plan and comprehensive needs assessment. Stakeholder surveys are a key component to our school improvement plan. Please take a couple of minutes to complete the survey and provide us with feedback for growth. The link below will take you to the survey.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LQBQKHV
Thank You,
Joel Bailey

Platte-Geddes Schools are dismissing at 12:45 today, Thursday, October 10.

The Influenza Clinic will be held at PG Schools on Tuesday, October 15. If you would like your child to receive their flu shot at school, the form must be signed and returned to school by 10-15-19. Forms have been
e-mailed or can be picked up in the district offices.

Our Messenger notification center was recently updated. With the potential for a fall storm (eye roll emoji) we are going to send out a test message on 10-9-19 at noon to ensure we have our notification list updated. If you do not receive the call, contact joel.bailey@k12.sd.us

PLATTE-GEDDES
2019 HOMECOMING PARADE RESULTS
HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION
BEST HIGH SCHOOL FLOAT:
BEAUTY:
1 Seniors
2. PG Cheer/Pom Squad
3. Sophomores
ORIGINALITY:
1. Juniors
2. Seniors
3. FFA
HUMOR:
1. Juniors
2. Sophomores
3. Freshmen
JR. HIGH ENTRY
BEAUTY:
1. 7th Grade
ORIGINALITY
1. 6th Grade
HUMOR:
1. 8th Grade
ELEMENTARY DIVISION
BEST ELEMENTARY ENTRY:
1. Dance Co.
2. 3rd Grade
3. 5th Grade
COMMUNITY/BUSINESS DIVISION
BEST BUSINESS/COMMUNITY ENTRY:
1. Houdeshell Chiropactic/Platte Creek Store
2. Bank of the West
3. Remember the Time Antiques
BEST IN HUMOR:
1. Platte Livestock/Josh’s ATV
2. Bank of the West
3. DeGroot Racing
HONORABLE MENTION: Platte Health Center

Tonight's volleyball game at Bon Homme has been postponed (date yet to be determined). There will be an optional open gym for the high school volleyball team today at four o'clock. Middle school football and volleyball practice are canceled.

Platte-Geddes Schools will be closed on Thursday, September 12. The volleyball game at Bon Homme is scheduled as planned. After school activities will continue, but are optional. Please, contact your respective coach to inform them of our decision.

Box Tops for Ed: https://www.boxtops4education.com/
You will need to download the app on your smart phone or create a log-in on your computer. You must enter Platte Geddes Community School or our zip code, 57369. You will have to scan or take a photo of the store receipt.

Platte Geddes Elementary Open House Event
Welcome to the start of a new school year! We are back in the building and excited to begin another year of working together with all of you as parents to educate our youth. Please feel free to stop in at the school anytime between now and the start of the school year if you have questions or concerns or if you would simply like to say Hi.
Reminder~ The annual Open House @ Platte Geddes Schools will be held on August 20, 2019 from 3-7 PM. Our buildings will be open to all students and parents during that time. Students in grades 1/2 day Kindergarten- 5th grade will take their school pictures, meet their new teachers, and have the opportunity to unpack school supplies in their desks. Parents may pay their lunch account fees, as well as other fees associated with the start of a new school year. Carol Oberbroekling, Ember Bartles, and Kathy Holter will have a table set up in the main gymnasium to assist parents. I will be available during the entire afternoon and evening to answer questions and assist where needed. Please make sure your e-mail address is on file with Mrs. Knecht at the elementary school so you will receive updates and information prior to the start of school and throughout the school year.
We are excited for the school year to begin and are looking forward to a great year!

Platte-Geddes 7-12th grade students
Individual student schedules for the 19-20 school year are now available to pick up. Students are encouraged to stop in the high school office in the next several weeks before the Open House date (August 20) to get their schedules and pay any or all school fees. Picture envelopes from Photographic Images are also available in the office.

Thrive Nutrition Services at the Platte-Geddes School District in Platte SD, is looking for team members to work great hours Monday thru Friday. Great wages based upon your level of experience and position qualified to work. No experience, no problem as we will train you! Apply today, pass background check and start immediately! Call (605) 228-9520 or email your information and questions about this great opportunity to trevor.pasch@got-thrive.com

Greetings,
Adverse weather conditions are inevitable in South Dakota so I wanted to share our procedures for late starts, early dismissals, and school cancellations.
First and foremost, we must remind our young drivers to plan ahead and allow more time when traveling to and from school during the winter months. As a parent/guardian, it’s your right to keep your child/children home from school if you don’t feel it’s safe for them to be traveling. We go to great lengths to avoid putting you in situations like this, but our district covers a large area. Weather conditions can vary greatly from one side of the district to the other. If you do not feel it’s safe to allow your child to drive and school is still in session, it will be considered an excused absence.
Road checks begin between 5:00-5:30AM and the School Message regarding a late start will be sent out at approximately 6AM. If you do not receive notification from School Messenger, delays and closings will be broadcast on the following media outlets: TV- KELO, KDLT, KSFY, Radio-KOOL (98.3FM), WNAX (570AM), KPLO (94.5FM), KWYR (93.7FM), KGRD (92.3FM), and KMIT (105.9FM). Weather delays will also be published on the district website at www.platte-geddes.k12.sd.us and the school Facebook page.
When school is delayed, the start time will always be 10 AM for all schools. The Geddes bus will leave promptly at 9:15AM. Regardless of a late start or not, the Geddes bus will always leave on time (7:15AM regular leave time). Please, make sure your child/children are on the bus prior to the scheduled leave time. When there’s a late start, there is no class for Half-Day Kindergarten students and no breakfast is served.
In the case of an early dismissal, we will follow the same notification procedures. We will strive to have the Geddes bus arrive approximately thirty minutes after school is dismissed. Depending on the dismissal time, we will also try to serve lunch if possible.
Late starts, early dismissals, and school cancellations are always a difficult decision. We go through great lengths to make the best decision to keep our students and staff safe. As I previously stated, if there’s ever a time when school is in session and you don’t feel it’s safe for your child to be on the roads, it will be considered an excused absence.
If you have not been receiving the School Messenger notifications, please contact Joel Bailey via email at joel.bailey@k12.sd.us to be added to the school contact list.
As always, thanks for your support and continuing to make the Platte-Geddes School District a great place to learn, work, and grow.
Kind Regards,
Joel Bailey