Decorah FFA Presents Awards at Annual Program March 24

Submitted by: Jerikah Dodd, Decorah FFA Reporter

The 88th annual Decorah FFA Awards Program was held at the Decorah High School Auditorium on Monday, , at 7 pm. About 250 guests were in attendance, including parents, family members, community sponsors, business leaders, and members. The Conduct of Meetings Team consisting of President Taylor Sloan-Dahl, Vice-President Bentley Smith, Secretary Brock Anfinson, Treasurer Brooks Dodd, Reporter Brooks Courtney, Sentinel Natalie Holthaus, and Advisor Jordyn Roberg officially opened the awards program.

Chapter President Kamryn Werges welcomed everyone in attendance. The 2024-2025 officer team then presented Greenhand FFA Degrees and Chapter FFA degrees to the recipients. This year’s eighteen Greenhand FFA Degree recipients include Brock Anfinson, Allison Bigler, Dylan Brincks, Brooks Courtney, Brooks Dodd, Colton Elsbernd, Ethan Hill, Natalie Holthaus, Izabella Kos, Ella Mann, Zander McConnell, Brandi Nehls, Kayden Osborne, Landyn Quandahl, Jordyn Roberg, Daric Sheffield, Taylor Sloan-Dahl, and Bentley Smith.

The Decorah FFA awarded twenty-one Chapter FFA Degrees to members. This year’s recipients include Hadley Alexander, Andrew Carolan, Kale Christopher, Michael Clement, Brinlee Courtney, Madelynn Dahl, Dominick Duffield, William Hahn, Noah Heiselman, Aiden Helgerson, Braden Hemesath, Tristan Hunter, Jackson Irwin, William Kruse, Mara Lovstuen, Gabe Monroe, Karter Orris, Ryan Rocksvold, Isabella Schnitzler, John Toby Schnitzler, and Peyton Schultz.

Eden Scheidel then awarded the leadership awards to members who successfully served as leaders within our chapter as an officer and/or a committee chairperson. Members receiving leadership pins for completing their first year of service include Hadley Alexander, Rylee Averhoff, Karlee Bullerman, Andrew Carolan, Brinlee Courtney, Madelynn Dahl, Jerikah Dodd, Karlie Einck, Logan Frye, Lauren Holthaus, Mara Lovstuen, Gabe Monroe, Annika Schmelzer, and Jordan Sims.

Members recognized for more than two years of leadership service to the chapter include Kiele Eberling, Lyla Lovstuen, Eden Scheidel, Derek Tieskoetter, Kamryn Werges, and Thea Zidlicky.

Thea Zidlicky and Karlie Einck introduced the members who had perfect meeting attendance this past year. These members include Allison Bigler, Brooks Dodd, Colton Elsbernd, Izabella Kos, Taylor Sloan-Dahl, Andrew Carolan, Mara Lovstuen, Jerikah Dodd, Karlie Einck, Nick Farley, Lauren Holthaus, Lyla Lovstuen, Eden Scheidel, Annika Schmelzer, Jordan Sims, Derek Tieskoetter, and Kamryn Werges.

Madelynn Dahl and Brinlee Courtney presented scholarship pins and certificates to all of the Decorah FFA members who made the honor roll this past year. Members receiving this honor and a pin include Allison Bigler, Dylan Brincks, Brooks Dodd, Colton Elsbernd, Logan Frye, Jacob Hageman, Aiden Helgerson, Natalie Holthaus, Izabella Kos, Blaine Leidahl, Mara Lovstuen, Landyn Quandahl, Jordyn Roberg, Isabella Schnitzler, Daric Sheffield, Taylor Sloan-Dahl, and Bentley Smith.

Members receiving a scholarship certificate for being on the honor roll multiple years include Hadley Alexander, Rylee Averhoff, Ryan Bigler, Henry Brynsaas, Karlee Bullerman, Andrew Carolan, Kale Christopher, Brinlee Courtney, Madelynn Dahl, Jerikah Dodd, Kiele Eberling, Nick Farley, William Hahn, Austin Helgerson, Lauren Holthaus, Tristan Hunter, Jackson Irwin, William Kruse, Lyla Lovstuen, Gabe Monroe, Karter Orris, Eden Scheidel, Annika Schmelzer, Peyton Schultz, Jordan Sims, and Jake Teslow.

Rylee Averhoff presented the Academic Achievement Awards. The senior academic awards are awarded from the Iowa FFA Association and are presented to the seniors who have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5, have been an active member for at least 3 years, and have an active SAE. Recipients who received a certificate and a medal include Austin Helgerson & Jordan Sims.

Gabe Monroe presented the top 10 fruit sales awards after announcing the chapter had sold a total fruit sales amount of $59,416. Members receiving fruit sales awards include 1st – Jordan Sims, 2nd – Taylor Sloan-Dahl, 3rd – Karlie Einck, 4th – Karlee Bullerman, 5th – Rylee Averhoff, 6th – Brinlee Courtney, 7th – Peyton Schultz, 8th – Gabe Monroe, 9th – Allison Bigler, and 10th – Bentley Smith.

The Decorah FFA Letter was presented by Lauren Holthaus. In order to letter, members must be an active member in FFA. This year twenty-four members lettered in FFA. These members include Rylee Averhoff, Andrew Carolan, Brinlee Courtney, Madelynn Dahl, Jerikah Dodd, Kiele Eberling, Karlie Einck, Logan Frye, William Hahn, Austin Helgerson, Blaine Leidahl, Rashell Lippe, Mara Lovstuen, Lyla Lovstuen, Ella Mann, Gabe Monroe, Hunter Quandahl, Eden Scheidel, Annika Schmelzer, Elora Schnitzler, Jordan Sims, Derek Tieskoetter, Kamryn Werges, and Thea Zidlicky.

Each FFA member has a requirement to keep records on either a job placement, agribusiness ownership, or a livestock or crop project. Members then submit their record books for evaluation. Hadley Alexander announced the top record books for each class. They include senior Kiele Eberling, junior Eden Scheidel, sophomore Gabe Monroe, and freshman Allison Bigler.

Jerikah Dodd presented the Star Greenhand award to Natalie Holthaus. She also presented the Star Chapter Farmer award to Kamryn Werges, the Star Chapter Placement award to Lyla Lovstuen, and the Star Chapter Agribusiness to Eden Scheidel.

Lyla Lovstuen congratulated this year’s proficiency award winners. This year’s chapter proficiency winners include the following: Hadley Alexander (Ag Services), Thea Zidlicky (Beef Production Placement),  Brinlee Courtney (Dairy Production Entrepreneurship), Ryan Bigler (Dairy Production Placement), Noah Heiselman (Diversified Ag Production), Kiele Eberling (Diversified Livestock Production), Rylee Averhoff (Goat Production), Andrew Carolan (Grain Production), Eden Scheidel (Poultry Production), Karlie Einck (Sheep Production), Kamryn Werges (Small Animal Production), and Jordan Sims (Swine Production Entrepreneurship).

Eden Scheidel, Brinlee Courtney, Lyla Lovstuen, and Gabe Monroe thanked the senior class for all their leadership over the years and congratulated them on all their accomplishments. This year’s 2025 Decorah FFA seniors who were recognized include Kiele Eberling,

Logan Frye, William Hahn, Austin Helgerson, Blaine Leidahl, Rashell Lippe, Ella Mann, Hunter Quandahl, Elora Schnitzler, Jordan Sims, Derek Tieskoetter, and Kamryn Werges.

Annika Schmelzer presented the Star FFA Alumni and Supporters award to Mason & Jaden Falck and Keagen Einck. Kiele Eberling then recognized our 2025 Friends of Agriculture Award Recipient David Forde. 

The 2024-2025 Chapter officers then presented the Honorary FFA Degree. The Honorary membership is for any farmers, school superintendents, principals, members of boards of education, chapter advisors, teachers, staff members in agricultural education, business people, and others who are helping to advance agricultural education and the FFA and who have rendered outstanding service. They may be elected to honorary membership by a majority vote of the members present at any regular meeting or convention. This year’s recipients were Nick and Allysen Lovstuen.

During the 2025 FFA Awards Program, attendees had the opportunity to hear from a special guest speaker, Creed Monroe, an alumnus of the Decorah FFA chapter and current Iowa FFA Northeast State Vice President. He shared an inspiring message about the impact of FFA and agricultural education, highlighting the leadership and career opportunities available to students. His speech encouraged members to stay involved and challenged others to take advantage of the many opportunities FFA has to offer.

Chapter Advisor Joni Bruvold thanked all the volunteers and individuals who have supported the chapter throughout the last year. Following Ms. Bruvold’s speech, the Decorah FFA Alumni and Supporters came to the stage to provide an update. There also was a live auction to raise money for Decorah FFA Senior Scholarships through the Decorah FFA Alumni and Supporters. 

After watching the year in review video, the new officer installation took place before the banquet was adjourned. The 2024-2025 officers installed the following 2025-26 officers: President –Kamryn Werges to Gabe Monroe, Vice President – Eden Scheidel to Annika Schmelzer, Secretary – Karlie Einck to Karlie Einck, Treasurer – Gabe Monroe to Lauren Holthaus, Reporter – Brinlee Courtney to Jerikah Dodd, Sentinel – Derek Tieskoetter to Brinlee Courtney, and Assistant Officer – Lyla Lovstuen to Rylee Averhoff. The officer team performed the closing ceremonies and concluded the banquet with the Pledge of Allegiance.

3.24.25 Awards Program Best Record Books

2025 Decorah FFA Best Record Book Winners: 

Allison Bigler, Gabe Monroe, Eden Scheidel, and Kiele Eberling received best record book awards.

3.24.25 Awards Program Friends of Ag Award David Forde

2025 Decorah FFA Friends of FFA Award Recipient: David Forde

3.24.25 Awards Program Honorary FFA Degree Allysen Nick Lovstuen

2025 Decorah FFA Honorary FFA Degree Recipients: 

Nick and Allysen Lovstuen received the Honorary FFA Degree.

3.24.25 Awards Program FFA Letter

2025 Decorah FFA Letter Recipients:
Row 1: Madelynn Dahl, Lyla Lovstuen

Row 2: Kamryn Werges, Derek Tieskoetter, Thea Zidlicky, Annika Schmelzer, Jordan Sims

Row 3: Andrew Carolan, Karlie Einck, Austin Helgerson, Mara Lovstuen, Eden Scheidel

Row 4: Rylee Averhoff, Brinlee Courtney, Jerikah Dodd, Kiele Eberling, Logan Frye, Gabe Monroe

Absent: William Hahn, Blaine Leidahl, Rashell Lippe, Ella Mann, Hunter Quandahl, Elora Schnitzler

3.24.25 Awards Program Senior Academic Achievement Helgerson Sims

2025 FFA Academic Achievement Recipients: Austin Helgerson and Jordan Sims

3.24.25 Awards Program Star Alumni Einck

Keagen Einck received the 2025 Decorah FFA Star FFA Alumni and Supporters Award. Also receiving this award but absent for the photo are Mason and Jaden Falck.

3.24.25 Awards Program STAR Awards Holthaus Werges Lovstuen Scheidel

2025 Decorah FFA Star Award Recipients: 

Natalie Holthaus, Kamryn Werges, Lyla Lovstuen, and Eden Scheidel received a 2025 Decorah FFA Star Award.

3.24.25 Awards Program Top 5 Fruit Averhoff Bullerman Einck Sloan Dahl Sims

2024-2025 Decorah FFA Top 5 Fruit Sales:Row 1: 5th – Rylee Averhoff, 4th– Karlee Bullerman, 3rd – Karlie Einck, 2nd – Taylor Sloan-Dahl, and 1st – Jordan Sims.

3.24.25 Awards Program Proficiency Winners

2024-2025 Decorah FFA Proficiency Award Winners

Row 1: Rylee Averhoff, Hadley Alexander, Karlie Einck, Kiele Eberling, Andrew Carolan, Jordan Sims

Row 2: Brinlee Courtney, Kamryn Werges, Thea Zidlicky, Eden Scheidel, Noah Heiselman, Ryan Bigler

3.24.25 Awards Program Chapter Degree 1

Decorah FFA members receiving the Chapter FFA Degree 

Row 1: Hadley Alexander, Madelynn Dahl, Andrew Carolan, Peyton Schultz

Row 2: Michael Clement, Aiden Helgerson, Mara Lovstuen, Isabella Schnitzler

Row 3: Brinlee Courtney, Jackson Irwin, Braden Hemesath, Noah Heiselman

Row 4: Tristan Hunter, Gabe Monroe, John Toby Schnitzler, Dominick Duffield

Absent: Kale Christopher, William Hahn, William Kruse, Karter Orris, Ryan Rocksvold

3.24.25 Awards Program Greenhand Degree

Decorah FFA members receiving the Greenhand FFA Degree
Row 1: Brandi Nehls, Izabella Kos, Natalie Holthaus, Taylor Sloan-Dahl, Jordyn Roberg

Row 2: Brock Anfinson, Bentley Smith, Colton Elsbernd, Brooks Dodd, Dylan Brincks

Row 3: Allison Bigler, Zander McConnell, Brooks Courtney, Landyn Quandahl

Absent: Ethan Hill, Ella Mann, Kayden Osborne, Daric Sheffield

DHS FCCLA Members Compete at State Leadership Conference

The newly-formed Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) organization from Decorah High School traveled to Cedar Rapids to attend the State Leadership Conference from March 23-25. The students participated in contest events and leadership sessions. Two students placed third in the state in their events.

Brody Darling entered the Iowa Event Pride of Iowa, where contestants were required to highlight Iowa ingredients. He prepared lefse pulled pork burritos with corn slaw and au jus, winning third place. Asmere Jensen also won third place in her event, Iowa Event Food Truck. Her food truck was named Birria Bliss, and she prepared birria tacos.

Other FCCLA members who participated include Brooklyn Anderson, who participated in the Iowa Event Food Truck. She named her food truck The Somber Bayou and prepared beignets with homemade chocolate sauce. Emma Neebel and Miranda Teepe also participated in the Iowa Event Food Truck. Their truck was called Doughy Pastries, and they partnered to prepare Quarkkäulchen, a German potato and cheese pancake. 

FCCLA advisor Doreen Fullhart shared, “We went into the experience not knowing what to expect, but we came away with new knowledge, confidence, and a vision for the future. The FCCLA organization opened our eyes to many new possibilities, including scholarship and community service opportunities.”

Group FCCLA

Group FCCLA (l-r): Miranda Teepe, Emma Neebel, Brooklyn Anderson, Brody Darling, and Asmere Jensen

Asmere Jensen and Brody Darling Third Place Winners

Asmere Jensen and Brody Darling Third Place Winners

Brooklyn Anderson The Somber Bayou FCCLA

Brooklyn Anderson The Somber Bayou FCCLA

Asmere Jensen Birria Bliss Food Truck

Asmere Jensen Birria Bliss Food Truck

Emma Neebel and Miranda Teepee FCCLA

Emma Neebel and Miranda Teepe FCCLA

Brody Darling FCCLA Pride of Iowa 1

Brody Darling FCCLA Pride of Iowa

Eight DHS Individual Speech Students Chosen to Perform at All-State Festival

Following their performance at the Individual Speech State Contest, eight Decorah High School students were selected as performers for the Individual Speech All-State Festival, which will be held at the University of Northern Iowa on Monday, March 31st.

The performers include June Breitenbach-Dirks: Solo Musical Theatre; Elliana Brodbeck: Reviewing; Emma Cline: Reviewing; Natalie Goodner: Original Oratory; Mikayla Hiner: Acting; Clarence Nimrod: Improvisational Acting; Noah Potvin: Public Address; and Ezra Vorvick: Solo Musical Theatre.

The directors shared, “The personal stories, dedication to character, and expert artistry were truly outstanding, and we deeply respect the work these students put into preparing for this elite honor.”

The Iowa High School Speech Association’s philosophy is built on the belief that participation in speech activities will benefit students through their life journeys, and that the All-State Festival provides an avenue for students to present their talents and to enlighten all who attend the event.

Ind Speech All State 25

Front row (l-r): Mikayla Hiner , June Breitenbach-Dirks , Elliana Brodbeck
Middle row (l-r):  Natalie Goodner, Emma Cline

Back row (l-r): Ezra Vorvick, Clarence Nimrod, Noah Potvin

DHS Speech Students Perform Well at Individual State Contest

Decorah High School’s individual speech participants–coached by Molly Holkesvik, Gabriel Twedt, Carrie Kauffman, Kristen Underwood, Lyra McKnight, and Johanna Bergan–competed Saturday, March 15th, at Starmont High School at the State contest. Out of Decorah’s 49 performances, 35 received I (excellent) ratings.

The directors shared, “Our students made bold choices, worked hard to memorize, and breathed life into their characters. We so respect the work they did to prepare for State contest.”

All State results will be posted on the IHSSA website after 5 pm on Monday, March 17th.

Results for Decorah Speech Performers Grades 10-12

Receiving a I (excellent) rating:

Original Oratory: Natalie Goodner, Jayden Lundtvedt, Jillian Volz

Public Address: Patrick Gallagher, Noah Potvin

Expository Address: Jerald Thompson, Ava Hanson, Olivia Rissman

Storytelling: Grace Blikre, Evynne Downing, Margret Zook

Prose: Margret Zook, Grace Stockman

Poetry: Margaret Hahn, Leah Suhr

Review: Elliana Brodbeck, Emma Cline, Elsa Johnson

Literature Program: Hannah Arendt, Lily Sandhorst

Solo Musical: Ezra Vorvick, Gwen Thompson, June Breitenbach-Dirks

Acting: Teagan Menke, Mikayla Hiner

After Dinner Speaking: Clarence Nimrod, Sawyer Courtney, Ezra Vorvick

Radio News: Karmyn Bakken, Jayden Lundtvedt, Jillian Volz

Individual Improv: Caleb Johnson, Clarence Nimrod

Receiving a II (good) rating:

Spontaneous Speaking: Mason Myers, Caleb Johnson, Aitor Cuevas

Individual Improv: Isis Timm

Acting: Margaret Hahn

Poetry: Olivia Volkmann

Prose: Gwen Thompson

Results for Decorah Speech Performers Grade 9

Receiving a I (excellent) rating:

Original Oratory: Sophia McGee

Solo Musical: Kaya Johnson

Receiving a II (good) rating:

Solo Musical: Claire Ko

After Dinner Speaking: Gavin Wilkins

Acting: Kaya Johnson

Poetry: Kira Dowden

Storytelling: Kennedy Carlson

Prose: Ana Leibold

Expository Address: Addisyn Ivy

Decorah High School’s Unified Champions Dazzle in Special Basketball Game at State Tournament

The Decorah High School Unified Champions basketball team experienced a momentous victory as they traveled to Des Moines to compete against Ankeny High School during the boys’ state basketball tournament. In a thrilling showdown, the team secured a hard-fought 12-10 win, marking an unforgettable milestone for the players and their supporters.

The excitement didn’t end on the court—upon their return, the team received a hero’s welcome, riding through town with a fire truck escort to the school’s iconic bell, where fans, families, and classmates celebrated their achievement.

Preparation and Dedication

The road to this special game was paved with dedication, as the team practiced extensively under the guidance of coach Shannon Quandahl. Reflecting on the experience, Quandahl shared, “The Unified Champions basketball game was one of the most memorable experiences of my professional career—a true collaboration between schools, administration, and community, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Decorah Special Olympians and their Unified Champions. I am forever grateful to the staff, Mr. Dunt, Mr. Riley, Mr. Hurst, our Special Olympians and Unified Champions, IHSAA, and the Unified Partners for this opportunity. It was one of the most heartwarming and powerful experiences I’ve ever had the privilege to be a part of. My heart is full!”

Voices from the Court

For the student-athletes, the game was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of teamwork, inclusion, and school spirit.

“I will never forget winning the basketball game!” said junior Donnie Hrdlicka.

Junior John Lippe added, “My favorite part was my jersey. I was #53! The crowd was loud!”

The support from fans was deeply felt by the players, including ninth-grader Emily Green, who shared, “My favorite part of the day was the fire truck because there were people cheering for us.”

Sophomore Margaret Hahn remarked, “Yesterday was probably one of the most fun experiences I have had in high school! My highlight would definitely be getting to go “behind the scenes,” get our own room, and sit down at the court.  I loved how happy and exciting the atmosphere, fans, and team was on and off the court. I am so happy I was able to participate and can’t wait for next year!”

Freshman Derek Hrdlicka summed up the spirit of the day: “To me, a highlight was when John scored and started doing his celebration and everybody in the stands were going crazy! My other highlight was when Braden went up to Carly after the game and cheered her up about her being down about not meeting her expectations. Also, being on the basketball court was just really fun and a crazy feeling. It was great that everybody came to cheer at the high school when we got back in the fire truck. I think that it truly shows how much people really do care about inclusion.”

The Mission of Unified Champions

This remarkable event is just one of many organized by Decorah High School’s Unified Champions, a student-led initiative that promotes inclusion by pairing Special Olympians with their classmates. Led by teachers John Dunt, Kelli Gapinski, and Marie Conway, the program follows a three-part approach: whole school engagement, unified sports, and student leadership.

Junior Madysen Lippe emphasized the importance of the program’s mission, saying, “I love the interaction of all the students. Just because someone is different doesn’t mean we have to be separated. Who doesn’t want to have fun playing basketball?”

A Community Effort

The success of this event would not have been possible without the dedication of many. Teacher-coaches John Dunt and Kelli Gapinski extended their gratitude to staff members Sarah Elsbernd, Maureen Hrdlicka, Norma Carolan, Allison Kuboushek, Taylor-Jane Wilkins, Mike Casterton, and bus driver Gary Fairchild, all of whom played a role in making this experience unforgettable.

Decorah’s Unified Champions continue to embody the power of inclusion, proving that when students of all abilities come together, the entire school community wins.

Unified Champions at State

Unified Champions at State Basketball Tournament

1st Row (l-r):  Maddy Lippe, Kamryn Leuenberger, Sierra Jump-Gerleman, Maran Martin, Derek Hrdlicka, Makenzy Hope

2nd Row (l-r): John Lippe, Carly Mann, Paxton Remick, Margaret Hahn, Abbeke Jensen

3rd Row (l-r): Wyatt Pleggenkuhle, Braden Ramstad, Donnie Hrdlicka, Asmere Jensen, Emily Green, Nate Rhodes

Dunt Coaching the Team

Coach Dunt Giving a Pep Talk to His Team

Decorah Senior McKenzie Riley Receives Prestigious E. Wayne Cooley Scholarship

Decorah High School senior McKenzie Riley has been named the recipient of the esteemed E. Wayne Cooley Scholarship Award, recognizing her as one of Iowa’s most outstanding student-athletes. This honor, awarded annually, celebrates an individual who exemplifies the highest ideals of the “Iowa Girl”—demonstrating excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, and community service.

Riley was selected from six finalists following personal interviews with the selection committee. The award includes a $15,000 scholarship ($3,750 annually), which she will use to attend the University of Northern Iowa, where she plans to major in elementary education. She is the daughter of Adam and Jessica Riley.

A 4.0 AP Scholar, Riley is also a standout in track and field, speech, and drama. She serves as Vice President of National Honor Society, is active in cross country, DHS Choirs, Yearbook, and the Student Leadership Committee, and participates in numerous service organizations, including the Silver Cord volunteer program, Project-Literature Book Club, Decorah Lutheran Church Youth Group, and Decorah Parks & Recreation.

Reflecting on her leadership, Riley shared, “One of my greatest contributions has been welcoming others into new experiences. Whether in speech, cross country, or youth group, I’ve encouraged others to step outside their comfort zones and find a place where they belong.”

On receiving the award, she expressed gratitude to those who have shaped her journey: “While I am honored, this award is a reflection of the teachers, coaches, friends, family, and mentors who have guided me along the way. I am grateful for their encouragement and for the support of the Iowa Girls’ High School Athletic Union.”

McKenzie Riley Athletic Union Scholarship
McKenzie Riley and Family Athletic Union Scholarship

McKenzie Riley and family (l-r):

Jessica Riley, McKenzie Riley, Carter Riley, and Adam Riley

Decorah Rotary Donates $2,000 to Student in Need Fund for Instrumental Rentals

The Decorah Rotary has generously donated $2,000 to the Decorah Community School District’s Student in Need Fund to assist students with instrumental rentals for orchestra and band. This donation will help ensure that all students, regardless of financial circumstances, have the opportunity to participate in music programs.

The Decorah Community School District provides educational opportunities for preschool through 12th grade students and supports extracurricular activities that enrich student experiences, including band and orchestra. However, students in grades 5-12 who wish to rent instruments from the school must pay a rental fee of $55 per year ($30 for percussion students). While the district can waive or reduce required school fees for students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals, it cannot waive or discount the instrument rental fee, as band and orchestra are elective courses. This creates a financial barrier for some families, potentially discouraging student participation in these valuable programs.

The $2,000 donation from the Decorah Rotary will directly support students in need by covering instrument rental fees, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to explore and develop their musical talents. By reducing financial barriers, this contribution will help students gain access to instruments–fostering teamwork, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for music.

“Sarah Kowitz, Nicole Cody, Matthew Cody, and I are incredibly grateful to the Decorah Rotary for their generous support,” said Chris Hadley. “This donation will make a significant impact on our band and orchestra students, allowing them to pursue their passion for music without financial hardship.”

The Decorah Community School District deeply appreciates community partnerships like this, which play a crucial role in supporting student success. Those interested in making further contributions to assist students with instrumental rentals or other educational needs are encouraged to contact the district office.

Cellos at DHS

 

Decorah Middle School Students Present Night of Plays

Decorah Middle School 7th and 8th graders will present their “Night of Plays” on Thursday, March 13, in the Carrie Lee Auditorium. The public is cordially invited to this event–a night filled with a variety of short plays presented by a talented cast. Curtain time is 7 p.m.

7 8 Grade Night of Plays 25

Photo ID:

Front row (l-r): Niva Anderson, Anya Volkmann, Tabitha McGrath, Gavin Iverson, Emily McFarlane, Lilly Richmond, Elsa Propson, Jonathan Crose, Iris Wadsworth

2nd row (l-r): Anna Severtson, Ayla Low, Lula McAbee, Lailyn McGrath, Kenyon Bartels, Per Weir, Sofia Hageman

3rd row (l-r): Ian McCandless, Autumn Wagner, Xavier Ahrndt, Violet Martinsen-Burrell, Veda Shimek, Keegan Joyce. 

Not Pictured: Amelia Krueger

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