Month: January 2022

Decorah Board of Education Names 3 Finalists for Next Superintendent

January 28, 2022 

DECORAH, IA — The Decorah Community School District Board of Education has announced three finalists in its search for the school district’s next superintendent.

The finalists are Daniel Barkel, John Cain, and Dr. Timothy Cronin. Each possesses a strong background and experience in recruiting teachers and staff, demonstrating collaborative leadership, promoting a community of care for students, and effectively communicating with parents, staff, and community members.

Barkel currently serves as superintendent of the MMCRU Community Schools, where he leads two school districts and answers to two elected school boards. In March 2021, the MMC community approved a bond issue, and the district is now in the middle of a major construction project. He prides himself on bringing stability, openness, and a commitment of excellence to educational leadership. Mr. Barkel previously was a principal, counselor, and vocal music teacher at Western Christian High School in Hull, Iowa. 

Currently the elementary school principal in the Bettendorf CSD, Cain has focused on opening up professional development opportunities for staff, building community connections, and using data to serve as a transformational school leader. He has created professional learning communities that allow staff to learn from one another and continue improving on behalf of students. Cain previously served as elementary principal and curriculum director in the Calamus-Wheatland CSD.

Since 2013, Dr. Cronin has served as superintendent of the Central City CSD, which has had a “shared superintendent” arrangement with nearby Dunkerton CSD for the past two years. He has gained key experience and skills related to school finance, human resources, and providing professional development opportunities to staff. Dr. Cronin is also an adjunct lecturer at the University of Iowa and has served in leadership roles on committees for the Grant Wood AEA, Central Rivers AEA, and the Superintendent Leadership Team of the Tri-Rivers Conference. 

The Board of Education has been working with Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct the search. The process has included a community-wide survey, asking district residents to provide their input on the qualities and characteristics they would like to see in the district’s next leader. The board conducted a first round of interviews the week of January 24. 

As a next step, the board and stakeholder interview teams will conduct final interviews with each of the three finalists the week of February 7. The board plans to then discuss the candidates and reach a final decision soon after the formal interviews.

The new superintendent will begin serving the Decorah Community School District effective July 1, 2022.

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February Book Discussions

Decorah Public Library staff are hosting five book discussions in February. The groups are open to the public and newcomers are encouraged to attend. Anyone interested should call the library at 382-3717 to learn more or to reserve a book. Zoom links are available on the Library’s website or you can email ktorresdal@decorahlibrary.org to be added to any of the five groups’ email distribution lists. Funds for multiple copy sets were generously provided by Friends of Decorah Public Library.

For more information, contact Carmen Buss (Friday Book Group), Zach Row-Heyveld (Cookbook Group) or Kristin Torresdal (Happy Hour, History, and Speculative Fiction Book Groups) at 563-382-3717.

Sharks in the Time of Saviors

The Happy Hour Book Group will meet via Zoom Wed. Feb. 9 at 5:15 p.m. to discuss Kawai Strong Washburn’s “Sharks in the Time of Saviors.” In 1995 Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, on a rare family vacation, seven-year-old Nainoa Flores falls overboard a cruise ship into the Pacific Ocean. When sharks appear in the water, everyone fears for the worst. But instead, Noa is gingerly delivered to his mother in the jaws of a shark, marking his story as the stuff of legends. Nainoa’s family, struggling amidst the collapse of the sugarcane industry, hails his rescue as a sign of favor from ancient Hawaiian gods—a belief that appears validated after he exhibits puzzling new abilities. But this supposed divine favor eventually begins to drive the family apart.

 

 

Jubilee: Recipes from Two Centuries of African American Cooking

Cookbook Book Group will meet on Thursday, February 10 at 7 p.m. to discuss Toni Tipton-Martin’s James Beard Award winning cookbook “Jubilee: Recipes from Two Centuries of African American Cooking.” Cook along with pioneering figures in African American cuisine, from enslaved chefs to middle- and upper-class writers and entrepreneurs. With more than 100 stories and recipes, from classics such as Sweet Potato Biscuits, Seafood Gumbo, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, and Pecan Pie with Bourbon to lesser-known but even more decadent dishes like Bourbon & Apple Hot Toddies, Spoon Bread, and Baked Ham Glazed with Champagne, Jubilee presents techniques, ingredients, and dishes that show the roots of African American cooking—deeply beautiful, culturally diverse, fit for celebration.

 

Killers of the King: The Men Who Dared to Execute Charles I

The History Book Group will meet via Zoom Thurs. Feb. 17 at 3:00 p.m. to discuss Charles Spencer’s “Killers of the King: The Men Who Dared to Execute Charles I.” On August 18, 1648, with no relief from the siege in sight, the royalist garrison holding Colchester Castle surrendered and Oliver Cromwell’s army ended the rule of Charles I of England. Yet still, the king refused to accept he had lost the war. As France and other allies mobilized in support of Charles, a tribunal was hastily gathered and a death sentence was passed. On January 30, 1649, the King of England was executed. This is the account of the fifty-nine regicides, the men who signed Charles I’s death warrant.

 

God Land

The Friday Book Group will meet via Zoom Fri. Feb. 18 at 2:00 p.m. to discuss Lyz Lenz’s “God Land.” In the wake of the 2016 election, Lyz Lenz watched as her country and her marriage were torn apart by the competing forces of faith and politics. A mother of two, a Christian, and a lifelong resident of middle America, Lenz was bewildered by the pain and loss around her—what was happening to faith in the heartland? Part journalism, part memoir, “God Land” is a journey into the heart of a deeply divided America. Lenz visits places of worship across the heartland and speaks to the everyday people who often struggle to keep their churches afloat.

 

Far From the Light of Heaven

The Speculative Fiction Book Group will meet via Zoom Wed. Feb. 23 at 5:15 p.m. to discuss Tade Thompson’s “Far From the Light of Heaven.” The colony ship “Ragtime” docks in the Lagos system, having traveled light-years to bring one thousand sleeping souls to a new home among the stars. But when first mate Michelle Campion rouses, she discovers some of the sleepers will never wake. Answering Campion’s distress call, investigator Rasheed Fin is tasked with finding out who is responsible for these deaths. Soon a sinister mystery unfolds aboard the gigantic vessel, one that will have repercussions for the entire system—from the scheming politicians of Lagos station, to the colony planet Bloodroot, and even to Earth itself.

 

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Black History Month Storytime

2/7
10 am

Join Decorah Public Library for a storytime with stretches, scarves, and shaker eggs.  This storytime will highlight books by Black creators.  A craft inspired by a contemporary Black children’s book illustrator will be available to participants afterwards.  Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

No registration required.  Sponsored by Friends of the Decorah Public Library

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This will be an active program with about 20 minutes of stories, stretches, and rhymes followed by time and space for unstructured play and caregiver socialization.  The Black History Month content will be age appropriate to toddlers and will involve highlighting Black creators, rather than talking explicitly about race.  (But if you’re looking for resources for such conversations we are happy to help.) We understand that in a multi-age setting that attention spans will vary and welcome you to participate at the level that feels appropriate. Covid-19 considerations: For this indoor storytime we will do rhymes, rhythms, and games instead of songs.  The Children’s Librarian will be wearing a mask and masks will be available for others that would prefer to wear one.  Please feel free to reach out to Rachael at rbutton@decorah.lib.ia.us for any additional questions about accessibility, accommodations or logistics.

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Luther College releases Fall 2021 Dean’s List

Luther College’s Fall 2021 Dean’s List includes 698 students; 120 first-years, 163 sophomores, 167 juniors and 248 seniors.To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must earn a semester grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale and must complete at least 12 credit hours with 10 hours of conventional grades (A, B, C, D).

United States:

Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin

International:

Armenia, Bangladesh, Belarus, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Germany, India, Italy, Kosovo, Liberia, Mauritius, Mexico, Myanmar, Nepal, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Spain, Swaziland, Sweden, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Uruguay, Vietnam, Zimbabwe

United States

Arizona
Chandler
Abigail Dykstra, first-year


 Tucson
Matias Parada, senior

Arkansas
Little Rock
Ruby Zorn, first-year

California
Encinitas
Mark Prince, first-year


 Murrieta
Hayden Glynn, senior


 Petaluma
Lizzie Snyder, first-year


 Rancho Santa Fe
Ben Houri, junior


 Sacramento
Ahmad Danesh Rassa, senior


 Whittier
Nicholas Viveros, first-year

Colorado

Arvada
Sam Bundy, sophomore


 Aurora
Victoria Brown, sophomore
Mara Wood, senior


 Brighton
Vershon Brooks, first-year


 Colorado Springs
Tim Mewborn, sophomore
Peter Stinar, first-year


 Fort Collins
Carmen Henderson, first-year
Cassie Magee, junior


 Larkspur
Ella Smith, junior


 Loveland
Alena Schuemann, sophomore


 Parker
Esther Choo, senior

Florida
Jacksonville
Nova Withers, senior

Illinois

Algonquin
Adam Burdzy, senior


 Aurora
Shelby Cassidy, senior


 Batavia
Fiona Garrity, sophomore
Cade Hawkins, first-year
Cade Hawkins, first-year
Nathan Knautz, junior


 Chicago
Amari Craig, junior
Ozzie De Paz, junior


 Coal Valley
Hannah Evans, junior


 Columbia
Sienna Haubein, senior


 Danvers
Layken McGuire, sophomore


 Dixon
Patrick Powers, junior


 East Dundee
Brynn Guth, senior


 Elmhurst
Judy Rosland, first-year


 Erie
Hannah Schanze, senior


 Freeport
Payton Shockey, junior


 Geneseo
Madi Miller, senior


 Hoffman Estates
Brandon Dorans, junior


 La Grange
Madeline Wilkins, senior


 Libertyville
Alex Dikelsky, senior
Kiley Nolan, sophomore


 Moline
William Van Vooren, senior


 Morrison
Allison Houldson, senior


 Normal
Liz Burton, senior


 Oak Park
Justin Stewart, senior


 Plainfield
Jami Dietz, sophomore


 Port Byron
Daniel Benoit, junior


 Rapids City
Sammy Ferguson, junior


 Rock Island
Ethan Braun, junior
Siobhan Dunn, sophomore
Aislinn Geedey, junior


 Rockford
Francis Cichock, sophomore


 Romeoville
Kaylee Martin, sophomore


 South Jacksonville
Camille Blanford, senior


 Springfield
Elise Ilsley, first-year

Iowa

Alburnett
Elise Smith, junior
Nicole Smith, junior


 Alexander
Abby Bates, first-year


 Algona
Alison Merrill, senior


 Altoona
Madison Becthold, sophomore


 Ames
Eva Anderson, sophomore
Peyton Gallt, first-year
Alison McHenry, senior
Jake Steenhoek, sophomore


 Anamosa
Sophie Wilt, senior


 Ankeny
Rebekah Riedemann, senior
Elise Wilson, junior


 Avoca
Kailey Jones, sophomore


 Bettendorf
Bailey Connors, senior
Abby Hamborg, sophomore
Sarah Schmidt, first-year


 Birmingham
Grace Davidson, sophomore


 Burlington
Thea Good, senior


 Calamus
Navia-Ayauna Erbst, junior


 Calmar
Emma Barness, first-year


 Camanche
Dylan Determan, junior


 Cedar Falls
Anastasia Davidson, sophomore
Sarah Hoehns, senior
Ethan Kober, sophomore
Katherine Lawson, sophomore
Sam Lubs, junior
Clare Rolinger, senior
Sam Schillinger, senior


 Cedar Rapids
Katie Andreasen, senior
Shelby Cook, senior
Audrey Fashimpaur, senior
Alyssa Gray, first-year
Lauren Gray, sophomore
Max Holt, senior
Madelyn O’Brien, junior
Emma Prostine, sophomore
Kaylee Waterhouse, sophomore


 Center Point
Madison Kurt, senior


 Charles City
Anastasia Baldus, junior


 Clarksville
Janet Borchardt, junior


 Columbus Junction
Grace Watson, junior


 Coralville
Mia Irving, sophomore
Eric Shaffer, sophomore


 Cresco
Haley Newman, senior


 Creston
Marie Mullin, first-year


 Davenport
Becca Davis, junior
Brittney Witt, senior
Zeke Wynsma, junior


 Decorah
Pat Bockman, sophomore
Maddie Davis, senior
Isabel De la Cruz Hexom, senior
Erin Dintaman, junior
Thomas Hadley, sophomore
Beau Hawley-Bourcier, sophomore
Rye Hawley-Bourcier, senior
Willem Hawley-Bourcier, sophomore
Keely Hermanson, first-year
Ava Holland, sophomore
Hallie Johnson, senior
Meron Kahsay, senior
Lily McGohan, sophomore
Adam Mertzenich, sophomore
Elijah Mitchell, sophomore
Jake Muhlbauer, senior
Jarod Phillips, senior
Maddie Putnam, sophomore
Rylea Ranum, senior
Isaac Roberts, junior
Braydon Saltou, junior
Meg Sessions, sophomore
Lily Smith, first-year
Abigail Toussaint, senior
Sam Wilson, senior
Tucker Young, sophomore
Avery Zheng, junior


 Denver
Colin Beck, senior
Mackenzie Milder, first-year


 Des Moines
Reagan Anania, junior
Greta Carlson, senior
Kenneth Cronin, first-year
Ella Cummings, senior
Jackson Geadelmann, junior
Delilah Gray, junior
Jerry Jones, senior
Emma Lin, junior
Will Ode, junior
Sofia Sackett, junior
Waleed Yual, senior


 DeWitt
Allison Hasenmiller, junior


 Dubuque
Theresa Easley, senior
Brianna Fry, senior
Katie Gorton, senior
Grace Herber, senior
Heather Hostager, senior
Foster Hull, first-year
Riley O’Donnell, first-year


 Eldora
Mary Brady, first-year


 Elgin
Carson Ward, junior


 Elkader
Lauryn Swigart, senior


 Ely
Riley Sauser, first-year


 Emmetsburg
Gabrielle Janssen, sophomore
Thomas Woodford, senior


 Epworth
Chloe Baumgartner, senior


 Gladbrook
Kerrigan Hatch, sophomore


 Granger
Tom Altier, senior
Emma Forbes, senior


 Grimes
Emily Frett, senior


 Grinnell
Grace McIlrath, first-year
Danica Nolton, senior


 Hudson
Morgan Hansen, sophomore
Sophie Selenke, sophomore


 Huxley
Karlee Emerson, senior


 Indianola
Maddy Wedmore, senior


 Iowa City
Julie Brashers-Krug, first-year
Katie Dunn, senior
Emma Gibson, sophomore
Ethan Goers, senior
Elizabeth Heimer-Lang, senior
Mason Irving, first-year
Quenton Max, senior
Amelia Morrow, senior
Grace Parrott, sophomore
Lindsey Parrott, senior
Jake Sharafuddin, senior
Julia Weiner, first-year
Anna Ziniel, senior


 Johnston
Jack Fritz, first-year
Logan Fritz, first-year
Maddie Gregurek, senior
Peyton McClure, senior
Alex Thompson, senior


 Kalona
Adria Ebersole, junior
Micah Miller, junior
Kaitlin Poock, senior


 Kensett
Anna Dietrich, senior


 Keosauqua
Tayton Bartholomew, senior


 La Motte
Emma Sanders, sophomore


 La Porte City
Madelon Rathe, first-year


 Lansing
Kendra Cooper, senior


 Le Mars
Sarah Benton, senior


 Lime Springs
Shelby Pisney, junior


 Long Grove
Zoe Warm, junior


 Manchester
Jacob Wenger, first-year


 Maquoketa
Camryn Berg, senior
Addie Craig, senior


 Marion
Will Angstman, senior
Hoffman Chan, senior
Kirsten Loynachan, senior


 Marshalltown
Shakira Herrera, junior


 Mason City
Natalia Cadena, senior
Gaby Castelan, sophomore
Britta Elsbernd, first-year
Nathan Elsbernd, senior


 Mc Gregor
Maxwell Koeller, sophomore


 Melbourne
Jannie Gowdy, first-year


 Monticello
Ryan Manternach, senior


 Mount Vernon
Katy Bellamy, senior
Sara De La Rosa, first-year
Danielle Pitts, first-year
Annie Rhomberg, junior
Keaton Wenz, sophomore
Paige Zaruba, junior


 Muscatine
Brylee Christopher, sophomore


 Newton
Preston Sherwood, senior
Laura Wyre, junior


 North Liberty
Hannah Johnson, first-year
Lauren Siems, sophomore
Hayden Thompson, first-year
Eli Young, first-year


 Osage
Claire Sullivan, senior


 Oskaloosa
Joshua Hartl, senior


 Polk City
Kayla Brummer, first-year


 Postville
Laura Roman Camarillo, junior


 Robins
Erica Schulte, first-year
Julia Schulte, junior
Abby Spore, sophomore


 Sheffield
Sarah Retz, senior


 Sherrill
Jessica Droessler, junior


 Solon
Kale Altman, junior
Faye Duster, senior
Jill Richards, senior


 Spillville
Emmaleigh Ohrt, sophomore


 Spirit Lake
Kylie Holdorf, senior


 Swisher
Megan Grimm, senior


 Tiffin
Claire Hruby, junior


 Urbana
Newelle Dalton, sophomore


 Urbandale
Hailey Abbey, senior
Kaitlyn Belger, junior
Maia Bumgardner, first-year
Ben Meyer, senior
Megan Miller, first-year
Josh Muller, senior
Riley Vander Hart, senior


 Washington
Olivia Quinby, junior


 Waterloo
Michelle Chin, sophomore


 Waterville
Katelyn Leiran, senior


 Waukee
Cole Barrett, sophomore
Sonja Barrett, senior
Courtney McDermott, junior
Jack Moriarty, sophomore


 Waukon
Leslie Halverson, senior


 Waverly
Ashley Schultz, senior
Samantha Snyder, senior
Amy Webb, sophomore
Avery Wrage, first-year


 Wellman
Skyler Schneider, sophomore


 West Des Moines
Kaitlyn Bebensee, sophomore
Kelsey Hubble, senior


 West Union
Zoey Frey, senior


 Winterset
Will Heithoff, sophomore


 Winthrop
Kimberly Fank, senior

Kansas
Lawrence
Lindsey Fry, senior


 Olathe
Ian Gonzales, sophomore

Kentucky
Louisville
Aidan Schooling, junior

Maine
Surry
Kalista Farmer, junior

Massachusetts
Hudson
Sam Maston, sophomore

Michigan
Milan
Mark Severtson, sophomore

Minnesota

Alexandria
Avery Hagstrom, sophomore


 Andover
Sam Feine, senior
Stephanie Lewis, junior
Aidan Winter, first-year


 Annandale
Reece Wright, first-year


 Anoka
Kitri Lindberg, junior


 Apple Valley
Hope Gilbertson, senior
Rose Sieve, senior


 Austin
Hannah Alberts, senior
Isaac Christopherson, senior
Keagan Larson, sophomore
Gideon Perez, junior


 Belle Plaine
Hunter Meyer, senior


 Bemidji
Mattie Snyder, sophomore


 Blaine
Claudia Podesta, sophomore


 Bloomington
Ellie Murnan, junior
Philip Royer, senior


 Brooklyn Park
Ryan Holt, sophomore


 Buffalo
Anna Ebnet, senior


 Burnsville
Taylor Bergerson, junior


 Caledonia
Ethan Papenfuss, senior


 Cannon Falls
Tessa Barnes, senior


 Carlton
Mary Osborne, sophomore


 Carver
Peter Edlund, junior


 Center City
Lars Heinecke, junior


 Chanhassen
Marin Leone, senior


 Chaska
Ella Marti, first-year


 Chatfield
Isabelle Berg, junior
Sloan Clemens, sophomore


 Cold Spring
Austin Wesenberg, sophomore


 Cottage Grove
Fancy Mua, senior


 Crystal
Anna Hunke, sophomore


 Dassel
Brynn Olsen, senior
Anders Peterson, junior


 Deer River
Madeline Starck, junior


 Dennison
Josie Ramler, junior


 Duluth
Adelaide Bohlmann, junior
Frost Bowen-Bailey, senior
Erik Radke, sophomore
Olivia Rawlyk, senior
Ava White, sophomore
Clara Wodny, junior


 Eagan
Makayla Haddorff, junior
Sam Nelson, junior
Jane Ottesen, junior


 Eden Prairie
Kaija Welter, senior


 Edina
Ellie Gardner, sophomore
Olivia Gustafson, first-year
Charlie Heinecke, junior
Eli Leupold, senior
Riley Masica, junior


 Elgin
Katy Klein, first-year


 Elk River
Sam Orgon, sophomore


 Eyota
Valorie Ziemer, senior


 Fairmont
Ethan Grunewald, sophomore
Eric Head, senior


 Falcon Heights
Nathan Behrens, sophomore
Sarah Schreiner, junior


 Faribault
Amanda Johnson, senior
Donald Scheel, junior


 Farmington
Katherine Bellefeuille, junior
Chayla Velander, junior


 Fergus Falls
Berit Skogen, junior
Cami Sternberg, senior


 Fountain
Hunter Hobbs, senior


 Fridley
Harrison Blum, junior
Peter Heryla, sophomore


 Geneva
Nikita Peterson, senior


 Hamel
Cassandra Hultgren, sophomore


 Hastings
Eric Bacon, senior
Owen Matzek, first-year


 Hokah
Sidney Miller, sophomore


 Inver Grove Heights
Kelly Fiedler, senior
Samantha Sabin, sophomore
Abbi Slininger, sophomore


 Jordan
Sophie Bierlein, junior


 Kasota
Marina Sawyer, sophomore


 Kasson
Emmy Carlson, junior
Jared Ellison, senior


 Kenyon
Annalie Piller, sophomore
Kaitlyn Vold, junior


 La Crescent
Hannah Clarkin, junior


 Lakeland
Anthony Hamer, senior


 Lakeville
Kyle Brusco, senior
Kinsey Greenlee, senior
Leah Koenig, sophomore
Nicole Larson, sophomore
Abigael McCarthy, junior
Cassandra Norton, sophomore
Abigail Russeth, first-year


 Lanesboro
Matthew Eversole, senior


 Le Sueur
Kylie Dunning, junior
Lane Schwarz, junior


 Lino Lakes
Charlie Sylvester, senior


 Long Lake
Katie Dore, senior


 Luverne
Courtney Wendland, junior


 Mabel
Sarina Stortz, sophomore


 Mankato
Rachel Clennon, senior
Ana Goellner, sophomore


 Mantorville
Morgan Coy, sophomore


 Maple Grove
Anna Beaverson, sophomore
Jessica Dahl, sophomore
Anna Kjeldahl, sophomore
Kyra Kjeldahl, senior
Samantha Peterson, sophomore
Anna Stenerson, first-year


 Maple Plain
Madeline Eppard, senior


 Mazeppa
Cole Peters, senior


 Minneapolis
Norah Austin, first-year
Rainey Baker, sophomore
Sten Bulander, junior
Ingrid Christopherson, senior
Mercedes Cruz, junior
Emily Dyrdahl, senior
Britt Fulton, sophomore
Betsy Gebhard, sophomore
Hailee Gilliand, senior
Maggie Haller, sophomore
Jonas Haugland, first-year
Molly Jaeger, senior
Owen Johnson, senior
Ian Klein, senior
Will Kuelbs, first-year
Margaret Mullin, sophomore
Sophie Nall, senior
Jorgen Olson, sophomore
Penelope Onsrud, junior
Max Pardo, senior
Lainey Patzloff, sophomore
Charlie Rubendall, junior
Syd Schreier, senior
Cullen Stamp, junior
Lucy Tschida, sophomore
Kathryn Waller, senior
Ian Wreisner, senior


 Minnetonka
Jane Bremer, senior
Noah Howe, sophomore


 Mound
Tia Meyer, junior


 Nerstrand
Kasandra Keller, junior
Olivia Schmidt, senior


 New Ulm
Allie Anderson, first-year


 North Oaks
Libby Carls, first-year
Lizzie Kauls, junior


 Northfield
Noah Arndt, first-year
Ashley Imdieke, first-year
Jessi Labenski, senior
Ryan Malecha, first-year
Jessica Olson, junior
Chloe Rozga, first-year
Brooke Stanga, senior
Gabriella Vargas, junior


 Owatonna
Elena Dant, senior
Abbi Schroeder, sophomore


 Park Rapids
Matt Benson, senior


 Pine Island
Lauren Monosmith, junior
Madilyn Wooten, junior


 Plato
Leah Crown, junior


 Plymouth
Connor Fuzzey, junior
Maya Grocholski, sophomore
Riley Schulte, first-year


 Princeton
Ellie Palashewski, senior


 Prior Lake
Jenna Uphoff, senior


 Randolph
Hailey Roberge, junior


 Red Wing
Calvin Harper, senior
Marshall Laidlaw, junior


 Robbinsdale
Josie Meyer, sophomore


 Rochester
Sydney Clausen, senior
Ethan Erickson, sophomore
Sydney Frank, junior
Elena Freund, junior
Abbey Gapinski, senior
Allegra Garcia, junior
Ben Gunsch, senior
Daniel Hunsberger, sophomore
Elizabeth King, senior
Abbe Lacey, senior
Josie LaVoi, senior
Isaiah Nordine, sophomore
Daniel Pfeffer-Kleemann, sophomore
Ella Rowley, sophomore
Alex Smith, senior
Mia Suzuki, sophomore


 Rogers
Jenna Charlson, first-year


 Rosemount
Abbie Ostrum, sophomore
Nathan Putman, senior
Michaela Weber, sophomore


 Roseville
Alice Feist, junior
Cirdan Klindworth, sophomore
Nick Rogness, junior
Elijah Wallace, sophomore


 Rushford
Anna Kjos, senior
Jasmine Schueler, junior
Noah Woxland, junior


 Saint Charles
Anna Decker, junior
Emily Hursh, first-year


 Saint James
Landon Hoppe, senior


 Saint Joseph
Nicholas Drew, first-year


 Saint Michael
Josh Kainz, sophomore
Nora Weigle, senior
Ted Weigle, sophomore


 Saint Paul
Nathan Anderson, junior
Will Benjamin, senior
Caylee Christian, sophomore
Kira Dobberman, senior
McKenna Gager, first-year
Emilie Gitter, senior
Emma Goulet, junior
Nick Greseth, junior
Emily Groppoli, first-year
August Halverson, junior
Kjerstin Halverson, sophomore
Anni Hedges, senior
Benjamin Hughes, junior
Samuel Liska, junior
Sully Lucy, first-year
Leah Marxhausen, senior
Kirby Masso, sophomore
Erin McCulloch, junior
Mary McTeague, senior
Ally Moseley, junior
Kimberlyn Perez-Salazar, senior
Natalie Peterson, junior
Julia Praska, first-year
Meghan Rice, senior
Meg Stucker, sophomore
Emma Syers, senior
Anna Tahnk, senior
Leah Thompson, senior
Elise Trail-Johnson, first-year
Catherine Vitt, senior
Maya Wosepka, sophomore


 Saint Peter
Greta Anderson, senior


 Sartell
Chase Heying, first-year
Rachel Schatz, senior


 Shakopee
Blayre Wisneski, sophomore


 Shoreview
Megan Rasmussen, sophomore
Ella Sneltjes, senior


 Spring Grove
Kelsey Bratland, first-year
Amelia Solum, sophomore


 Spring Valley
Audrey Farlinger, senior


 Springfield
Eva Mark, sophomore


 Stacy
Kaitlyn Blackburn, sophomore
Logan Olson, senior


 Stewartville
Gloria Nelson, sophomore
Emily Rinken, senior
Nate Sikkink, senior
Kaylee Smidt, junior


 Stillwater
Seth Olson, junior
Carolyn Wrightsman, senior


 Utica
Katie Dailey, first-year
Alayna Helgemoe, first-year


 Waconia
Jacob Larson, senior


 Wayzata
Jared Penshorn, junior


 Webster
Sam Vue, sophomore


 West Saint Paul
Allison Reding, junior


 Winona
Sarah Halverson, senior
Anna Rem, senior
Jordan Rubie, sophomore


 Woodbury
Charlie Anderson, sophomore
Grace May, first-year
Tessa Sand, senior


 Worthington
Adam Koller, sophomore


 Zimmerman
Kaylee Turney, junior


 Zumbro Falls
Morgan Kane, first-year


 Zumbrota
Dalton Ludington, senior

Missouri
Kansas City
Fred Farrand, senior

Nebraska
Lincoln
Catherine Wedin, junior


 Omaha
Alena Bennett, first-year
Allison Marasco, first-year

Oklahoma
Edmond
Robert Reece, senior

Oregon
Portland
Benjamin Bridges, sophomore

Pennsylvania
Lemont
Mara Anderson-Skelly, first-year


 Selinsgrove
Asli Lawrence, first-year

Puerto Rico
San Juan
Luis Figueroa, first-year

South Carolina
Marietta
Erin Villmow, senior

South Dakota
Sioux Falls
Sam Eng, sophomore
Ethan Moore, senior
Benjamin Wentzel, senior
Isaac Woods, senior

Texas
Houston
Alisa Stringer, senior


 Temple
Noah Hill, junior

Virginia
Stafford
Christion Pinkney, senior

Washington
Bainbridge Island
Elena Conklin, first-year


 Bellingham
Leigh Hjelmseth, sophomore
Gracia Powell, first-year


 Lynnwood
Charlotte Appel, first-year


 Mount Vernon
Leif Carey-Odden, first-year


 Woodinville
Nev Nelson, first-year

Wisconsin

Amery
Addison Tollakson, junior


 Appleton
Katie Fetting, senior
Alexis Johnson, junior
Allison Meinheit, senior


 Brookfield
Barrett Poetker, senior


 Cambridge
Cammi Gould, junior
Hannah Hoffmann, junior


 Cross Plains
Cam Moll, first-year


 De Pere
Shayla Cauldwell, sophomore


 Deforest
Mathea Diedrich, sophomore


 Dodgeville
Cody Pierce, sophomore


 Eagle River
Vicky Harris, junior


 Eau Claire
Emma Pichelmann, first-year
Sadie Pichelmann, senior
Laurel Studt, senior


 Ellsworth
Jolene Schultz, first-year


 Ettrick
Izzy Clark, junior


 Evansville
Irelyn Baumberger, junior


 Ferryville
Lanie Buchner, senior
Vin Buchner, first-year


 Fond Du Lac
Hailey Becker, senior


 Green Bay
Ashley Karas, sophomore


 Hayward
Anya Bacon, sophomore


 Hudson
Jacey Echo, junior
Scott Rust, sophomore


 Janesville
Jack Jorgensen, senior
Olivia Luster, sophomore
Alyssa Strampe, first-year


 La Crosse
Annika Dome, senior
Anna Gorski, junior
Isaac List, senior
Ava Shively, sophomore


 Lancaster
Madalyn McWilliams, junior


 Lodi
Samantha Himegarner, junior


 Madison
Jack Bell, first-year
Emmelyn Cullen, junior
Griffin Glassel, sophomore
Audrey Kuhn, first-year
Charlotte Ravenscroft, junior
Malachi Rettmann, sophomore
Elizabeth Roby, senior


 Mellen
Sorley Swanstrom-Arnold, first-year


 Menomonie
Tyler Buhr, sophomore
Rachel Heinrich, sophomore
Carly Witucki, sophomore


 Middleton
Iris Ohlrogge, senior


 Milwaukee
Anne Sedlacek, junior


 Mosinee
Megan Priest, junior


 Muskego
Darren Kremer, senior


 New Auburn
Laura Elmquist, senior


 New Richmond
James Nysse, senior


 Onalaska
Matti Sysimaki, first-year


 Oregon
Blake Anderson, sophomore
Michaela Bieno, senior


 Osceola
Ryan Rogers, senior


 Prairie du Chien
Carter Wittrig, senior


 Racine
Christina Dressler, junior
Erin Keller, senior


 Rice Lake
Emily Fell, senior


 River Falls
Christina Rolf, first-year
Tobias Snow, sophomore
William Tuchtenhagen, junior


 Seymour
Mercede Heinke, junior


 Slinger
Katelyn Hosking, first-year


 Sparta
Myah Kenyon, sophomore


 Spring Green
Emily Kane, first-year


 Stevens Point
Rachel Lummis, junior


 Stoughton
Piper Jensen, first-year


 Sturgeon Bay
Mya Ploor, sophomore


 Sun Prairie
Madeleine Way, sophomore


 Union Grove
McKinley Leinweber, sophomore


 Verona
Alli Thomley, first-year


 Viroqua
Evergreen Wildingway, senior


 Waterford
Jacob Klingsten, first-year


 Watertown
Evan Berth, junior


 Waukesha
Grace James, senior


 Wauwatosa
Jimmy Fuhrman, junior


 Whitehall
Riley Frank, junior
Hannah Stoutner, first-year

 

International

Armenia

Dilijan
Ani Sargsyan, senior


 Yerevan
Arpine Hovhannisyan, senior 

Bangladesh

 Dhaka
Jaraad Ahmed, first-year 

Belarus

 Minsk
Darya Davidouskaya, senior

Brazil

 Bahia
Luiz Socorro Oliveira, sophomore 

Cambodia

 Siem Reap
Ratanak Chea, junior 

Canada

 Edmonton
Anneke Knauss, senior 

Chile

 Santiago
Javiera Caro Carrasco, sophomore 

China

 Beijing
Qian Yang, senior


 Heze, Shandong
Millie Wang, first-year


 Shanghai
Huan Wang, junior 

Ecuador

 Chimborazo
Paola Valdivieso Santillan, junior

Ethiopia

 Addis Abeba
Meron Kahsay, senior 

Germany

 Altenberge
Tim Hellermann, junior


 Baden-Wurttemberg
Methembe Moyo, junior


 Freiburg
Victor Oluwa, first-year 

India

 Ghaziabad- Uttar Pradesh
Anirudh Chauhan, junior


 New Delhi
Sneha Verma, senior


 Phaltan
Sharayu Phanse, senior


 Pune Mh
Kien Huynh, senior

Italy

 Duino
Ghazal Alabtah, junior
Awate Elizabeth Loma, first-year 

Kosovo

 Gjakova
Diona Doli, junior 

Liberia

 Monrovia
Delroy Taylor, junior 

Mauritius

 Bambous
Navishta Gayadin, first-year 

Mexico

 Mexico City
Sebastian Zavala Brito, first-year 

Myanmar

 Yangon
Eric Min, junior 

Nepal

 Itahari
Kritib Bhattarai, senior


 Pokhara
Suman Chapai, junior


 Sindhupalchok
Susmita Giri, first-year 

Netherlands

 Bergen
Luna Van Tol, first-year 

Nicaragua

 Jinotepe
Anghy Aragon Alegria, sophomore 

Oman

 Azaiba
Maren Lee, first-year 

Panama

 Panama City
Melany Nicole Ruiz Torres, senior 

Paraguay

 Pilar
Juan Palacios Rodas, senior 

Spain

 Barcelona
Laura Miro I Rodrigo, sophomore 

Swaziland

 Hhohho
Alice Odame, senior


 Malkerns
Siyabonga Mabuza, senior 

Sweden

 Goteborg
Linnea Johnson Nordqvist, sophomore 

Tanzania

 Arusha
Ahmed Osman, first-year 

Timor-Leste

 Dili
Jora Ferreira Alves, senior 

Uruguay

 Montevideo
Maite Olivera Caballero, first-year 

Vietnam

 Ba Ria-Vung Tau
Thuy Duong Truong, first-year


 Can Tho
Quang Lam, senior


 Ha Tinh
Gia Minh Nguyen, sophomore


 Hanoi
Hudson Nguyen, first-year
Thu Ta, junior
Nguyen An Vuong, junior
Do Ngoc Diep Le, first-year
Loi Mai, junior
Long Khuong, junior
Anh Nguyen, senior


 Ho Chi Minh City
Tracy Bui, first-year
Tan Le, junior
Khanh Linh Tran, first-year


 Hue City
Nancy Hoang Ngan Le, sophomore


 Nam Dihn
Michelle Bui, first-year


 Nghe an
Tran Luc Vuong, sophomore


 Vung Tau City
Duong Truong, sophomore 

Zimbabwe

 Harare
Michael Musa, junior

 

 

 

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Luther College hosts Black History Month Distinguished Lecture by Gloria Ladson-Billings

In recognition of Black History Month, Luther College will host “The Politics of Critical Race Theory,” a lecture by Gloria Ladson-Billings at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10 via Zoom.

Ladson-Billings is known for her work in culturally relevant teaching and equity-focused instruction. She has done extensive research on the application of critical race theory in education. Her critically acclaimed book “The Dreamkeepers: Successful Teachers of African-American Children,” tells the stories, strategies and experiences of eight teachers who are successful in educating young African Americans and helping them realize their dreams. It is widely known and utilized in the education field.

During the 2005 American Educational Research Association’s annual meeting, Ladson-Billings delivered her presidential address, “From the Achievement Gap to the Education Debt: Understanding Achievement in U.S. Schools” in which she highlighted the combination of historical, moral, socio-political and economic factors that have disproportionately affected African-American, Latino, Asian and other non-white students.

“Given the national strife over the role of race in the curriculum of our educational systems, I can think of nothing more valuable than the insights of a scholar like Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings, whose research on race and education has made essential contributions to the field of critical race theory,” said Novian Whitsitt, professor of Africana studies and English.

Critical race theory scholars attempt to understand and transform the relationship between race, racism, and power. In her talk, Ladson-Billings will discuss how critical race theory applies to the political landscape, culture wars and how it impacts perception of educational opportunities.

Ladson-Billings is the former Kellner Family Distinguished Professor of Urban Education in the department of curriculum and instruction at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where she also served as the assistant vice chancellor of academic affairs.

Sponsored by Luther’s new Identity Studies program, the link to the virtual event can be found at luther.edu/events. It is open to the public at no cost.

About Luther College

Luther College is home to about 1,800 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our 60+ academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.

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DHS Large Group Speech Students Perform Well at District Contest

January 24, 2022

Decorah High School speech students participated in a local District Large Group Speech Contest on Saturday, January 22nd held at Waterloo West High School.

The performers had a great showing, earning 22 Division I ratings out of 30 total entries. The ninth-grade team performed in six entries, and the varsity team performed in 24 entries. Each ninth-grade and varsity entry receiving a Division I rating will perform at State competition on Saturday, February 5th, at Decorah High School.

Cast lists for the varsity groups moving to State contest are as follows:

Choral Reading “Fly Away” was directed by Molly Holkesvik and Rachel Breitenbach-Dirks.

Participants include Leslie Campbell, Wyatt Hackman, Karen Henriquez, Mikiah Krieg, Nolan Jacobson, Sam Reilly, Haywood Stowe, Ruby Sullivan, Julia Alberts, Sophia Christman, Ellen Rooney, Annalise Skrade, Daniel Skrade, Libby Phillips, and Ethan Stravers.

Ensemble Acting “Good on Paper” was directed by Rachel Breitenbach-Dirks.

Participants include Evon Leitz, Jake Magner, Max Wilson, Paige Lange, Rebecca Bruening, and Ruby Sullivan.

Ensemble Acting “Fake News” was directed by Lyra McKnight.

Participants include Danielle Rix, Gabriel Hiner, Jenna Hartz, Kathryn Kelly, Michael Njus, and Simon Kutz.

Group Improv was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Rachel Breitenbach-Dirks, and Lyra McKnight. 

Participants performed in three groups. 

Group One: Anders Lovstuen, Alex Irwin, Joe Stammeyer, and Annika Franzen.

Group Two: Nat Roberts, Rebecca Bruening, Adam Jones, and Julia Alberts.

Group Three: Koryn Bakken, Madi Castro, and Carter Kowitz.

Group Mime “Into the Storybook” was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Carrie Kauffman, and Lyra McKnight.

Participants include Julia Schwarz, Danielle Rix, Evon Leitz, and Lexy Walker.

Group Mime “The Daydream” was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Carrie Kauffman, and Lyra McKnight.

Participants include Leslie Campbell, Liz Clement, Sally Laybourn, Hayley Stowe, and Grace Neal.

Solo Mime “Steaming Hot” by Rebecca Anderson was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Gabe Twedt, and Carrie Kauffman.

Musical Theater “Hadestown” was directed by Gabe Twedt and Carrie Kauffman.

Participants include Haywood Stowe, Drew Chamberlain, Ada Lovelace, Alex Kane, Nolan Jacobson, and Dylan Muhlbauer.

Musical Theater “Now. Here. This.” was directed by Gabe Twedt and Carrie Kauffman.

Participants include Annalise Skrade, Max Wilson, Libby Phillips, Jake Magner, Mikiah Krieg, and Ella Grouws.

One Act Play “Things Fall…(Meanwhile)” was directed by Rachel Breitenbach-Dirks.

Participants include Nadia Johnson, Dylan Muhlbauer, Ella Grouws, Alex Kane, Ada Lovelace, Ellen Rooney, Ethan Stravers, Gabriel Hiner, Kathryn Kelly, Jensen Korsness, Abbie Valkosky, Lexy Walker, Mara Holland, Hogan Smith, and Larsson Shockey.

Radio Broadcasting “KCTS” was directed by Gabe Twedt and Carrie Kauffman. 

Participants include Drew Berns, Morgan Dlhy, August Witt, Sylvia Sandhorst, and Nat Roberts.

Radio Broadcasting “KLIF” was directed by Gabe Twedt and Carrie Kauffman. 

Participants include Elizabeth Pritchard, Corina Timm, Henry Weis, Mara Pankow, Aidan Nalean-Carlson, and Cody Carolan.

Readers Theater “Puffs” was directed by Gabe Twedt and Carrie Kauffman. 

Participants include Brielle Buresh, Karen Henriquez, Rebecca Anderson, Junior Battle, Michael Njus, Carter Kowitz, Sydney Kipp, Jensen Korsness, Anders Lovstuen, Ramsey Zilka, Abbie Valkosky, Henry Weis, Nadia Johnson, and Bella Bishop.

Short Film “Until You Can’t” was directed by Molly Holkesvik and Lyra McKnight. 

Participants include Koryn Bakken, Drew Berns, Brielle Buresh, Drew Chamberlain, Liz Clement, Annika Franzen, Mara Holland, Wyatt Hackman, Ellie Luzum, August Witt, Amelia Dugger, Landan Folkedahl, Anya Lovstuen, and Elizabeth Pritchard.

TV News “Dangerous Disinformation” was directed by Molly Holkesvik and Gabe Twedt. 

Participants include Anya Lovstuen, Hogan Smith, Amelia Dugger, Peter Essa, Britann Mettille, Sylvia Sandhorst, Nathan Swarbrick, Corina Timm, Aidan Nalean-Carlson, Sam Reilly, Landan Folkedahl, and Morgan Dlhy.

TV News “Iowa Adventures: Haunted Roadtrip” was directed by Molly Holkesvik and Gabe Twedt.

Participants include Brynn Storhoff, Sophia Christman, Paige Lange, Braunwyn Darrington, Kailyn O’Gara, Annaleissa Arnold, Simon Kutz, Caden Branum, Chloe Chyle, Bella Bishop, Easton Luzum, Thea Schissel, and Paige Werner.

Cast lists for other varsity groups who performed at District contest are as follows:

Ensemble Acting “Confessions of a High School Bathroom” was directed by Lyra McKnight. 

Participants include Alex Irwin, Annaleissa Arnold, Grace Bachelder, Hayley Stowe, Mya Redenius, and Sally Laybourn.

Group Mime “Takeout Please” was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Carrie Kauffman, and Lyra McKnight.

Participants include Chloe Chyle, Grace Bachelder, Brynn Storhoff, Brinley Krivachek, and Ellie Luzum.

Solo Mime “Sittin’ for Cerberus” by Ramsey Zilka was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Gabe Twedt, and Carrie Kauffman.

Solo Mime “The Call” by Junior Battle was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Gabe Twedt, and Carrie Kauffman.

Short Film “just speak.” was directed by Molly Holkesvik and Lyra McKnight. 

Participants include Abby Woosley, Grace Neal, Kendall Holland, Kailyn O’Gara, Paige Werner, Jaxon Williams, Braunwyn Darrington, John Baldridge, Caden Branum, Joe Stammeyer, and Adam Jones.

Short Film “SMILE” was directed by Molly Holkesvik and Lyra McKnight. 

Participants include Larsson Shockey, Julia Schwarz, Britann Mettille, Arlo Hayes, and Miranda Miller.

Cast lists for the 9th grade groups moving onto State contest are as follows:

Ensemble Acting “Tammy: A Coming of Age Story About A Girl Who Is Part T-Rex” was directed by Rachel Breitenbach-Dirks. 

Participants include Elliana Brodbeck, Oliver Brummel, Greta Jones, Rebecca Kane, McKenzie Riley, and Ezra Vorvick.

Radio Broadcasting “KDNA” was directed by Gabe Twedt and Carrie Kauffman. 

Participants include Karmyn Bakken, Liam Chamberlain, Natalie Goodner, Leah Holland, Kamryn Steines, and Amelia Wadsworth.

Choral Reading “Macadamia Mayhem” was directed by Molly Holkesvik and Gabe Twedt.

Participants include Karmyn Bakken, Elsa Johnson, Rebecca Kane, Annika Keefe, Ansel Kowitz, Caleb Krieg, McKenzie Riley, Liam Chamberlain, Grant Zilka, Margret Zook, and Gwenyth Thompson.

TV News “Breaking Barriers” was directed by Molly Holkesvik and Gabe Twedt. 

Participants include Evynne Downing, Natalie Goodner, Leah Holland, Annika Keefe, Caleb Krieg, Andy Kruger, Beau Newhouse, Kamryn Steines, Amelia Wadsworth, Margret Zook, Chloe Sheffield, Maran Martin, Rylin Sibley, and Mikael Havens.

Cast lists for other 9th grade groups who performed at District contest are as follows:

Group Improv was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Rachel Breitenbach-Dirks, and Lyra McKnight.

Participants include Elliana Brodbeck, Oliver Brummel, Klaara Short, Davis Coppola, and Jack Sovern.

Group Mime “Do or Die” was directed by Molly Holkesvik, Carrie Kauffman, and Lyra McKnight.

Participants include Grace Blikre, Elsa Johnson, Klaara Short, Jack Sovern, and Gwenyth Thompson.

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DCSD Reports Active COVID Cases, Info on RSAI

January 21, 2022

District COVID-19 Active Positive Cases

  • Total number of students and staff in isolation (currently positive) for COVID-19: forty-eight (48)
  • Current district facilities with known positive cases: John Cline Elementary, Carrie Lee Elementary, Decorah Middle School, Decorah High School

DCSD reports COVID-19 data in alignment with the direction of the Iowa Department of Public Health. The full guidance can be found at the link below.

IDPH Information Sharing Guidance for Schools and Local Public Health

Updated CDC Mask Guidance

As the graph below indicates, COVID-19 isolations are increasing significantly since the return from winter break. In his weekly message to families, Superintendent Mark Lane shared, “As we strive to provide a consistently safe and healthy working and learning environment, we highly encourage eligible staff and students to be vaccinated. We also highly encourage masking in alignment with CDC guidance. We ask that everyone practice good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. We urge individuals to stay home when sick and to communicate with personal health care providers and our school nurses to understand when it is appropriate to return to school.”

Active COVID Case Comparison 1 20 22

Last Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated information and guidance regarding Masks and Respirators. The District encourages staff and families to review this updated information and to assist us in creating conditions that promote safe and healthy learning environments.

Rural School Advocates of Iowa (RSAI)

Decorah Community School District is one of about 150 Iowa school districts that belong to the organization Rural School Advocates of Iowa (RSAI). District representatives meet regularly to discuss the unique qualities, advantages, and challenges of rural schools and the communities they serve.

RSAI maintains an excellent website for monitoring how proceedings of the annual Iowa General Session might impact rural Iowa schools. The site includes position papers on priority issues and each week it includes a short video update about education related activity at the Statehouse. If you are interested in learning more, you can access the RSAI website here.

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