What’s your escape plan if you experience a house fire? It’s recommended that families have an escape plan and practice it a couple times per year. 🧑‍🚒 We’re recognizing Fire Prevention Week in Osky Schools! Here’s a resource that can help you create and practice your plan: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Preparedness/Escape-planning
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
What’s your escape plan if you experience a house fire? It’s recommended that families have an escape plan and practice it a couple times per year. 🧑‍🚒 We’re recognizing Fire Prevention Week in Osky Schools! Here’s a resource that can help you create and practice your plan: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Preparedness/Escape-planning
On September 25, the Masonic Lodge of Oskaloosa (@Mahaska Lodge 644) presented three outstanding Oskaloosa Schools teachers with the prestigious 2022/2023 Teacher of the Year Award! 🏆 ✨ The awardees are: Mrs. Pam Chapman, 5th Grade Teacher (Oskaloosa Elementary) Mr. Jason Maddy, Student Success Coach (OMS) Mr. Rob Campbell, Science Teacher (OHS) The Teacher of the Year award began in 1920, in the midst of World War I, when over 18,000 schools were closed across the U.S. Grandmaster of Freemasons in California, Attorney Albert Adams, harnessed his influence to support schools. Many Masons chose to become educators, shaping the future by educating our youth, and the Teacher of the Year Award was born. At the heart of this recognition is each teacher's unwavering commitment to their students. Please join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of Mrs. Chapman, Mr. Maddy, and Mr. Campbell! 🎉
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
On September 25, the Masonic Lodge of Oskaloosa (@Mahaska Lodge 644) presented three outstanding Oskaloosa Schools teachers with the prestigious 2022/2023 Teacher of the Year Award! 🏆 ✨ The awardees are: Mrs. Pam Chapman, 5th Grade Teacher (Oskaloosa Elementary) Mr. Jason Maddy, Student Success Coach (OMS) Mr. Rob Campbell, Science Teacher (OHS) The Teacher of the Year award began in 1920, in the midst of World War I, when over 18,000 schools were closed across the U.S. Grandmaster of Freemasons in California, Attorney Albert Adams, harnessed his influence to support schools. Many Masons chose to become educators, shaping the future by educating our youth, and the Teacher of the Year Award was born. At the heart of this recognition is each teacher's unwavering commitment to their students. Please join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of Mrs. Chapman, Mr. Maddy, and Mr. Campbell! 🎉
This is a friendly reminder that Preschool Picture Day is Monday, October 9! 📷✨
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
This is a friendly reminder that Preschool Picture Day is Monday, October 9! 📷✨
There’s so much to do in Oskaloosa! Visit the Oskaloosa Virtual Backpack, where you’ll discover engaging events for the whole family. Go to www.oskyschools.org and select OCSD Backpack under the Parents tab. Local organizations can submit event fliers at https://tinyurl.com/24mztee9.
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
There’s so much to do in Oskaloosa! Visit the Oskaloosa Virtual Backpack, where you’ll discover engaging events for the whole family. Go to www.oskyschools.org and select OCSD Backpack under the Parents tab. Local organizations can submit event fliers at https://tinyurl.com/24mztee9.
Download the Osky Schools App! Students and their families can check event calendars, view lunch menus, get weather updates and more, right from their phones. 📱 👉 App Store: https://tinyurl.com/yck2u66s 👉 Google Play: https://tinyurl.com/mwa52hn6
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
Download the Osky Schools App! Students and their families can check event calendars, view lunch menus, get weather updates and more, right from their phones. 📱 👉 App Store: https://tinyurl.com/yck2u66s 👉 Google Play: https://tinyurl.com/mwa52hn6
🎉 We are delighted to welcome Laura Van Der Wal to her new position at Oskaloosa Schools! She’s a new Fifth Grade Teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. Originally from Oskaloosa, Laura holds a master’s degree from Northwestern College and a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Buena Vista University. Laura and her husband, Cory, are Oskaloosa HS graduates, have seven children together, and are proud owners of their golden retriever, Ellie. In her free time, Laura enjoys attending her children’s athletic and extracurricular events, as well as camping and enjoying new reads! “I am excited to meet my students and their families!” says Laura. “Teaching is my calling and purpose. I love building relationships with students and their families while providing a safe learning environment.” Why Osky? Laura says, “I was born and raised in Oskaloosa and am a 2005 Oskaloosa High School graduate. I am proud to be coming back to teach for this district.” Welcome to the team, Laura! 🌟
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
🎉 We are delighted to welcome Laura Van Der Wal to her new position at Oskaloosa Schools! She’s a new Fifth Grade Teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. Originally from Oskaloosa, Laura holds a master’s degree from Northwestern College and a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Buena Vista University. Laura and her husband, Cory, are Oskaloosa HS graduates, have seven children together, and are proud owners of their golden retriever, Ellie. In her free time, Laura enjoys attending her children’s athletic and extracurricular events, as well as camping and enjoying new reads! “I am excited to meet my students and their families!” says Laura. “Teaching is my calling and purpose. I love building relationships with students and their families while providing a safe learning environment.” Why Osky? Laura says, “I was born and raised in Oskaloosa and am a 2005 Oskaloosa High School graduate. I am proud to be coming back to teach for this district.” Welcome to the team, Laura! 🌟
📚 Happy National Instructional Coaches Day! 🍏 Oskaloosa Schools honors the mentors who guide our teachers toward excellence. They lay the foundation for achievement in our classrooms.
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
📚 Happy National Instructional Coaches Day! 🍏 Oskaloosa Schools honors the mentors who guide our teachers toward excellence. They lay the foundation for achievement in our classrooms.
Did you know? Manufacturing accounts for 11% of the U.S. economy! We’re proud to help students begin preparing for the jobs and opportunities of the future. Happy Manufacturing Day! 🛠️
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
Did you know? Manufacturing accounts for 11% of the U.S. economy! We’re proud to help students begin preparing for the jobs and opportunities of the future. Happy Manufacturing Day! 🛠️
🎉 We are excited to welcome Dee Dee Lehigh to Osky Schools! She is a new Special Education Resource Teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. Dee Dee is an Oskaloosa native and currently lives on a small farm in Fairfield, Iowa. She is a proud graduate of Morningside University, with a master’s degree as a Reading Specialist. Dee Dee has been married for 18 years to her husband, Eric, who works at Musco in Oskaloosa. Their daughter, Miranda, is entering 8th grade at Oskaloosa Middle School! Dee Dee and her family cherish their beloved indoor and outdoor animals. In their free time, the family enjoys staying busy with projects around the house and taking road trips! “I am completely excited to be moving ‘back home’ and to be a part of the Oskaloosa Schools,” says Dee Dee. “It feels like I'm finally where I'm meant to be.” Her main goal in her new position? She says, “My first and most important goal is to get to know my students and build those valuable relationships.” Her reason for choosing teaching? “I always wanted to be a teacher growing up. I enjoy working with children and adults, helping them to build a love for learning and being a part of the excitement as they grow.” Lauren chose Osky because, she says, “Oskaloosa is where my husband and I grew up. I want to be a part of the tradition of high quality education in Oskaloosa, just as we are thankful that our daughter will receive that at OMS.” Welcome to the Osky family, Dee Dee! 🌟
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
🎉 We are excited to welcome Dee Dee Lehigh to Osky Schools! She is a new Special Education Resource Teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. Dee Dee is an Oskaloosa native and currently lives on a small farm in Fairfield, Iowa. She is a proud graduate of Morningside University, with a master’s degree as a Reading Specialist. Dee Dee has been married for 18 years to her husband, Eric, who works at Musco in Oskaloosa. Their daughter, Miranda, is entering 8th grade at Oskaloosa Middle School! Dee Dee and her family cherish their beloved indoor and outdoor animals. In their free time, the family enjoys staying busy with projects around the house and taking road trips! “I am completely excited to be moving ‘back home’ and to be a part of the Oskaloosa Schools,” says Dee Dee. “It feels like I'm finally where I'm meant to be.” Her main goal in her new position? She says, “My first and most important goal is to get to know my students and build those valuable relationships.” Her reason for choosing teaching? “I always wanted to be a teacher growing up. I enjoy working with children and adults, helping them to build a love for learning and being a part of the excitement as they grow.” Lauren chose Osky because, she says, “Oskaloosa is where my husband and I grew up. I want to be a part of the tradition of high quality education in Oskaloosa, just as we are thankful that our daughter will receive that at OMS.” Welcome to the Osky family, Dee Dee! 🌟
It’s World Teachers Day! We want to thank our teachers for everything they do for our students, families, and community. We appreciate you! 🍎
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
It’s World Teachers Day! We want to thank our teachers for everything they do for our students, families, and community. We appreciate you! 🍎
🎉 We are thrilled to welcome Lauren Trainer to the Oskaloosa Schools team! She is a new Second Grade Teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. A proud Oskaloosa native, Lauren recently graduated from William Penn University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, including endorsements in Special Education and Reading. Alongside her boyfriend, she shares her life with their lovable dog, Louie, and adorable cat, Gus. When not in the classroom, Lauren loves reading, listening to podcasts, walks, and cherishing moments with loved ones. “I'm excited to finally be teaching!” says Lauren. “I can't wait to build relationships with all my students and their families. I also have amazing team members and am excited to get the chance to work with them every day!” Why did Lauren choose teaching as her career? She says, “I've always wanted to be a teacher ever since I was in Kindergarten. I want to make a difference in students’ lives like my past teachers have done for me. I also love watching students learn, grow, and thrive in their journey of education and life.” Why Osky? Lauren says, “I chose Oskaloosa Schools because Osky will always be home to me. I graduated from OHS back in 2019 and always knew that I wanted to return to Osky Schools as a teacher one day.” Welcome to the Osky family, Lauren! 🌟
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
🎉 We are thrilled to welcome Lauren Trainer to the Oskaloosa Schools team! She is a new Second Grade Teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. A proud Oskaloosa native, Lauren recently graduated from William Penn University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, including endorsements in Special Education and Reading. Alongside her boyfriend, she shares her life with their lovable dog, Louie, and adorable cat, Gus. When not in the classroom, Lauren loves reading, listening to podcasts, walks, and cherishing moments with loved ones. “I'm excited to finally be teaching!” says Lauren. “I can't wait to build relationships with all my students and their families. I also have amazing team members and am excited to get the chance to work with them every day!” Why did Lauren choose teaching as her career? She says, “I've always wanted to be a teacher ever since I was in Kindergarten. I want to make a difference in students’ lives like my past teachers have done for me. I also love watching students learn, grow, and thrive in their journey of education and life.” Why Osky? Lauren says, “I chose Oskaloosa Schools because Osky will always be home to me. I graduated from OHS back in 2019 and always knew that I wanted to return to Osky Schools as a teacher one day.” Welcome to the Osky family, Lauren! 🌟
We have an immediate opening for a Middle School Science Teacher! Check out this job posting and others at http://www.oskyjobs.com.
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
We have an immediate opening for a Middle School Science Teacher! Check out this job posting and others at http://www.oskyjobs.com.
⏰REMINDER: Today is our usual early-out Wednesday. We will have a 60-minute early release today.
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
⏰REMINDER: Today is our usual early-out Wednesday. We will have a 60-minute early release today.
United Way of Mahaska County is thrilled to announce their annual Winter Coat Drive! 🧥❄️ If you can, please consider donating any extra and gently used coats (no sweatshirts, hoodies, shirts, etc. please), snow pants, boots, hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves in all sizes. 📅 Drop off items at any location from October 9 to November 6. Distribution Dates are November 10 and November 11. Let's come together and support our community members in need this winter! ❄️
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
United Way of Mahaska County is thrilled to announce their annual Winter Coat Drive! 🧥❄️ If you can, please consider donating any extra and gently used coats (no sweatshirts, hoodies, shirts, etc. please), snow pants, boots, hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves in all sizes. 📅 Drop off items at any location from October 9 to November 6. Distribution Dates are November 10 and November 11. Let's come together and support our community members in need this winter! ❄️
🎉 Join us in welcoming Michelle Erbs to Oskaloosa Schools! She is serving as a new Kindergarten Teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. Michelle has lived in Oskaloosa since 2017 and earned a master’s degree last year in teacher leadership from Northwestern University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Lindenwood University. Originally from St. Louis, Michelle met her husband, Ryan, at Lindenwood U. The pair have two dogs, a few chickens, and ducks! In her free time, you’ll find Michelle immersed in reading or enjoying Netflix. She's also a devoted pet parent, loves quality family time, and cherishes moments of relaxation. “I’m excited for the new challenge of teaching kindergarten!” says Michelle. She chose teaching as her career because she has “always been a nurturer. Teaching littles how to learn and grow gives me purpose.” Why Osky? “Oskaloosa Schools provides so many opportunities that attracted me to join,” says Michelle. Her goal in this position? “To understand the workings of the school district and get to know the people I work with.” Welcome to the Osky family, Michelle! 🌟
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
🎉 Join us in welcoming Michelle Erbs to Oskaloosa Schools! She is serving as a new Kindergarten Teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. Michelle has lived in Oskaloosa since 2017 and earned a master’s degree last year in teacher leadership from Northwestern University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Lindenwood University. Originally from St. Louis, Michelle met her husband, Ryan, at Lindenwood U. The pair have two dogs, a few chickens, and ducks! In her free time, you’ll find Michelle immersed in reading or enjoying Netflix. She's also a devoted pet parent, loves quality family time, and cherishes moments of relaxation. “I’m excited for the new challenge of teaching kindergarten!” says Michelle. She chose teaching as her career because she has “always been a nurturer. Teaching littles how to learn and grow gives me purpose.” Why Osky? “Oskaloosa Schools provides so many opportunities that attracted me to join,” says Michelle. Her goal in this position? “To understand the workings of the school district and get to know the people I work with.” Welcome to the Osky family, Michelle! 🌟
🎃Today is the Pumpkin Giveaway! Students of Oskaloosa Elementary and the Oskaloosa Early Childhood Center can receive a FREE pumpkin purchased locally from Stam Garden Center & Nursery from our friends at the Austin Norris Edward Jones office. Time: 3:30 to 6:00pm Location: 716 A Ave W, Oskaloosa Thank you to Austin Norris and his team for spreading fall cheer in our community! 🍂
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
🎃Today is the Pumpkin Giveaway! Students of Oskaloosa Elementary and the Oskaloosa Early Childhood Center can receive a FREE pumpkin purchased locally from @Stam Garden Center & Nursery from our friends at the Austin Norris Edward Jones office. Be sure to bring a parent or guardian with you! Time: 3:30 to 6:00pm Location: 716 A Ave W, Oskaloosa All pumpkins were purchased locally to support the Stam Garden Center & Nursery. Thank you to Austin Norris and his team for spreading fall cheer in our community! 🍂
🎉 Introducing Heather Nelson to the Osky Schools family! 📚 She's our new Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher at Oskaloosa High School for the 2023-24 school year. Heather brings an impressive educational background, including a master’s degree in education from St. Catherine University, a bachelor’s degree in English from Iowa State University, and an associate’s degree in culinary arts from Indiana Hills CC. With 26 years of marriage to husband Brent and three Osky graduates (Spencer, Kirby, and Elliot), she's deeply rooted in our community. Now an empty-nester, Heather is diving into new adventures – from travel and writing to cooking and hiking. Her two cats, Juno and Iris, keep her company, too! “I’m excited to work on expanding students’ palates and opening their minds to new food experiences!” says Heather. “With ten years of food industry experience under my belt, I'm looking forward to sharing my knowledge and passion for food!” Why Oskaloosa Schools? Heather says, “I grew up In Oskaloosa, graduated from here, taught here, raised children here, and owned a business here. I think I have a lot to give back to this community!” Her main goal? “Inspire students to be as excited and passionate about food as I am!” Welcome to the team, Heather! 🌟
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
🎉 Introducing Heather Nelson to the Osky Schools family! 📚 She's our new Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher at Oskaloosa High School for the 2023-24 school year. Heather brings an impressive educational background, including a master’s degree in education from St. Catherine University, a bachelor’s degree in English from Iowa State University, and an associate’s degree in culinary arts from Indiana Hills CC. With 26 years of marriage to husband Brent and three Osky graduates (Spencer, Kirby, and Elliot), she's deeply rooted in our community. Now an empty-nester, Heather is diving into new adventures – from travel and writing to cooking and hiking. Her two cats, Juno and Iris, keep her company, too! “I’m excited to work on expanding students’ palates and opening their minds to new food experiences!” says Heather. “With ten years of food industry experience under my belt, I'm looking forward to sharing my knowledge and passion for food!” Why Oskaloosa Schools? Heather says, “I grew up In Oskaloosa, graduated from here, taught here, raised children here, and owned a business here. I think I have a lot to give back to this community!” Her main goal? “Inspire students to be as excited and passionate about food as I am!” Welcome to the team, Heather! 🌟
🎨 On September 27, our talented students in Mr. Kargol's art classes had a fantastic opportunity to meet and learn from guest artist Hans Schmitter, all the way from Montreal, Quebec, Canada! Hans Schmitter is a world-famous graphic designer and graffiti-writer/muralist. During his visit, he shared images of his incredible work and led an engaging workshop on the art of graffiti lettering! Our students were inspired and left with newfound creativity and knowledge. 🌟 A huge thank you to Hans Schmitter for visiting and inspiring our young artists!
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
🎨 On September 27, our talented students in Mr. Kargol's art classes had a fantastic opportunity to meet and learn from guest artist Hans Schmitter, all the way from Montreal, Quebec, Canada! Hans Schmitter is a world-famous graphic designer and graffiti-writer/muralist. During his visit, he shared images of his incredible work and led an engaging workshop on the art of graffiti lettering! Our students were inspired and left with newfound creativity and knowledge. 🌟 A huge thank you to Hans Schmitter for visiting and inspiring our young artists!
🚜👕 The Osky FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapter has launched TWO online stores for you to shop! 1️⃣ Get your hands on this year's official chapter shirts, brought to you in collaboration with @Swim's Sports Awards & Screen Printing. The link to this store closes on October 15 at midnight—mark your calendars for estimated pick-up on October 25: https://ohsffa2023.itemorder.com/shop/sale/ 2️⃣ Shop our merch store for more goodies, including shirts and hats! Students have been working hard all summer to bring you this store, which is all about promoting FFA, advocating for agriculture, and raising funds for our chapter. 🌱 Access the store here (using the password “oskyffa”), which also closes at midnight on October 15: https://stores.inksoft.com/oskaloosa_ffa/shop/private. Other items available for purchase include FFA lanyards for $3.00, FFA keychains for $1, and FFA tumblers for $25.00. Contact Alice Bowling at bowlinga@oskycsd.org or an FFA member if interested! Thank you for supporting Osky FFA and helping our future farmers thrive! 🌟
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
🚜👕 The Osky FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapter has launched TWO online stores for you to shop! 1️⃣ Get your hands on this year's official chapter shirts, brought to you in collaboration with @Swim's Sports Awards & Screen Printing. The link to this store closes on October 15 at midnight—mark your calendars for estimated pick-up on October 25: https://ohsffa2023.itemorder.com/shop/sale/ 2️⃣ Shop our merch store for more goodies, including shirts and hats! Students have been working hard all summer to bring you this store, which is all about promoting FFA, advocating for agriculture, and raising funds for our chapter. 🌱 Access the store here (using the password “oskyffa”), which also closes at midnight on October 15: https://stores.inksoft.com/oskaloosa_ffa/shop/private. Other items available for purchase include FFA lanyards for $3.00, FFA keychains for $1, and FFA tumblers for $25.00. Contact Alice Bowling at bowlinga@oskycsd.org or an FFA member if interested! Thank you for supporting Osky FFA and helping our future farmers thrive! 🌟
Happy National Custodian Day to our custodial team! We appreciate your commitment to ensuring our students have the best possible spaces to learn and grow. Thank you for everything you do!
about 1 year ago, Oskaloosa Community School District
Happy National Custodian Day to our custodial team! We appreciate your commitment to ensuring our students have the best possible spaces to learn and grow. Thank you for everything you do!