January 30, 2026
As we wrap up January and look ahead to the heart of winter, I want to take a moment to celebrate the energy and enthusiasm I see every day at HBC Elementary. Even during these colder weeks, our hallways are filled with warm smiles, meaningful learning, and students who continue to impress us with their curiosity and kindness.
This week we will kick off February by having an all student assembly Monday, February 2 in the morning (we call it LIftoff). Our students will be participating in a Pates TRAITS Olympic challenge. Ask your child about this. Also, on Thursday, February 12 our students will celebrate in their classrooms a mid-winter time. I am looking forward to the possible warmup at the end of next week. Go Patriots!
MORNING DROP OFF: Student drop off in the morning is at the main entrance on the north side of the building. Students should walk through the building to the playground OR go to the commons for breakfast. For student safety, please do not enter the playground area in the back of the school.
MARK YOUR CALENDER:
February 13/16- No School - Presidents Holiday
February 19- Evening Conferences
2026-27 Kindergarten Round Up: Do you have a child who will attend Kindergarten next year? The H-BC Elementary School Kindergarten Round Up will be Monday, March 13. Plan ahead for this all day school experience for your child. Parents attend 8:15-9:15. Children who will be five on or before August 31, 2026, are invited!
GENTLY USED CLOTHES: Our Patriot Pals Childcare Center is in need of children's clothes sizes 3-6 months to kids 5/6. Donations are appreciated.
PATRIOT PALS CHILDCARE CENTER: We are having a great time at Patriot Pals! Interested in learning more about how Patriot Pals may be the perfect fit for your family? Email t.voss@isd671.net for a tour or information.
H-BC PTO INVITES YOU TO PUZZLES, PIZZA & PITCHERS:
Instead of knocking on your door with order forms for things you don’t need, the HBC PTO decided to do something better — create a FUN night out for YOU while supporting our students, teachers, and families!
Join us for an evening of friendly competition, delicious pizza, refreshing pitchers, and plenty of laughs with neighbors and friends. Whether you’re a puzzle pro or just there for the pizza, this event is all about bringing our community together in support of our elementary school.
Your participation makes a real difference. PTO funds help provide classroom resources, student activities, teacher support, family events, and so much more — things that directly impact every child at HBC. None of this happens without the generosity of our community, and we are so grateful for your support.
**See all the information at the bottom of this newsletter for this fun event on February 20.
COOKIES FOR A CAUSE: Check out the opportunity to order Valentines Cookies and support several local organizations that benefit H-BC Schools. See all the information at the bottom of this newsletter. The deadline to order is Friday, February 6.
PACK THE PANTRY: During the month of January, the H-BC ELEMENTARY Student Council is hosting an event to benefit the Sioux Falls Ronald McDonald House.z
Students are encouraged to bring in items from the wishlist. The class with the most points wins a STEM PARTY in the new Makers Lab! See all the details at the bottom of this newsletter!
AM BUS CHANGES: For morning bus changes please call the HBC bus line--make sure to identify your student and the bus number they are riding: 507-962-3240
AM DROP OFF: Drop off is at the main office door under the canopy on the South Side of the school main parking lot. Soon to be door A.
Please reach out to me if you have any needs. Phone- 507-673-2541 or t.holthaus@isd671.net
