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Norwell Community Schools |
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Norwell News - January 2026 |
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New Year, New Goals, Ready for What's Next: Resolutions for Success at School
The start of a new year is the perfect time to set fresh goals and build positive habits. For students, New Year’s resolutions can be a great way to stay motivated and focused as we head into the second half of the school year.
Here are a few ideas to inspire:
Stay Organized: Keep your backpack and folders neat, and use a planner to track assignments.
Read More: Challenge yourself to read one extra book this month.
Ask Questions: If something is unclear, speak up—learning starts with curiosity.
Be Kind: A simple smile or helping hand can make someone’s day.
Set Personal Goals: Whether it’s improving grades, joining a club, or trying a new sport, aim for progress, not perfection.
Remember, resolutions aren’t about being perfect—they’re about making small changes that lead to big success. Let’s make this year our best yet!
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Coffee & Conversation with the Superintendent |
Starting in February on Thursday mornings, Superintendent Springer is inviting parents at each school campus for coffee and conversation about Norwell's vision and direction.
The 1st Thursday will be in the NMS main office @7:15am; the 2nd Thursday will be in the LES multipurpose room @9:00am; and the 3rd Thursday in the OES multipurpose room @9:00am.
The venue will be informal with the topics and conversations driven by the participating parents. And you do not have to be a coffee drinker to attend. 😊
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For the past few years, we have talked internally about hosting "open mic" Q&A/Town Hall-format sessions with our community (including parents). Like the parent coffee chats referenced above, the discussion topics will be driven by those attending the sessions.
The purpose of these sessions is for our administrative team to listen to and interact with our community regarding thoughts and ideas to guide our vision, direction, and continued improvement.
Our plan is to host two sessions this semester with both sessions being held in the NMS cafetorium following that evening's school board meeting. The first session will be January 27th and the second session will be February 24th.
All Norwell community members are encouraged to attend and participate. Help spread the word.
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During the 2024-25 school year, parents completed a survey that included questions about a potential move from separate K-5 and 6-12 bus routes to combined K-12 bus routes. At that time, there was support for combined bus routes. Due to the anticipation of other factors within the transportation department, it was decided last spring to postpone an attempt to transition to K-12 routes for the 2025-26 school year. Transportation Director, Amy Young, is revisiting this possible change for the 2026-27 school year. At this time, we are only asking parents to complete the survey (see graphic). If you have questions, please call 260-622-4125 and press 2 to speak with the transportation department or press 0 to speak with the superintendent. |
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All four schools within the Norwell Community Schools District have achieved the Purple Star School designation, recognizing their significant commitment to supporting military families with resources, events, and a welcoming environment for students connected to the military. This recognition highlights Norwell's dedication to providing support and ensuring military-connected children feel included and can thrive despite frequent moves.
What the Purple Star Designation Means for Norwell:
Military-Friendly: It signifies a major commitment to families of active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members.
Comprehensive Support: Schools implement strategies like staff training, student-led initiatives, dedicated web pages, and school-wide appreciation events.
Focus on Transitions: The program helps military children navigate frequent school changes and challenges, fostering academic success and social-emotional well-being.
Key Initiatives at Norwell:
Veterans Day Programs: Annual events at elementary, middle, and high schools to honor service members.
Norwell Military Wall of Honor: A tribute to military members who are former students, staff, or family, located at Norwell High School.
In essence, Norwell Community Schools is recognized for actively creating an inclusive, supportive atmosphere for its military-connected students and their families, earning them the prestigious Purple Star award
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Staff Spotlight: Bria Eversole |
Norwell's Educator of the Year! |
Congratulations to Bria Eversole, Norwell's Educator of the Year! Bria, a 6th grade Math Teacher at Norwell Middle School, will be honored next month at the Wells County Chamber's Annual Banquet.
Bria is proud to be a "homegrown" Norwell graduate, Class of 2009. She earned her bachelor's degree in Education and began her career at Norwell Middle School--the only interview she ever needed. Bria feels honored to serve the school and community that helped raise her.
Bria married her high school sweetheart, Lee, and they have two sons, Hudson and Liam, who also attend Norwell Community Schools.
While Bria is honored to be named Educator of the Year, she is self-less in also recognizing the passionate, creative, dedicated, and hard work the entire NMS staff demonstrates. Bria says it best "I truly love working here and being a part of this amazing family."
Congrats to you again, Bria, we are so proud of your accomplishment and excited to see your enthusiasm and passion for student success!
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Mrs. Bria Eversole
6th Grade Math
Educator of the Year
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Want to make a difference? |
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Use one of these rewards to donate--every contribution counts!:
Kroger Community Rewards (sign up in the Kroger app and choose where your rewards go): Norwell - Music Boosters; Lancaster Central Elementary - PTO; Ossian Elementary PTO
Midwest America Affinity Visa Debit Card - Support Norwell with everyday purchases
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First Semester School Board Student Recognition |
We are incredibly proud of our students whose outstanding extracurricular achievements have earned recognition from the school board. Their dedication, creativity, and hard work outside the classroom showcase the well-rounded excellence we strive for in our community. These accomplishments reflect not only their talent but also their commitment to growth and leadership, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate their success! |
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Senior Caiden Petrie Recognized for State Cross Country Appearance
Caiden and the Boys Cross Country Team had an outstanding season, capturing both Sectional and NE8 Conference Titles. Caiden went on to represent Norwell in the State Cross Country Meet and finishing with an impressive time of 17:03.7.
In other sports, the Girls Cross Country Team and the Girls Volleyball Teams also were Sectional Champions!
Congratulations to all on a great season!
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Photo courtesy of The News-Banner |
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Photo courtesy of The News-Banner |
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Norwell Knights Competition Cheer Team Recognized for an Outstanding Season
Our Cheer Team bring incredible energy and spirit all year, supporting athletes and representing Norwell with pride. Their dedication and teamwork make every game and event special.
The Comp Cheer Team earned ICC State Finalist honors in the Small Timeout Division and HCCA Spirit State Finalist recognition for their Game Day routine, finishing third overall.
Congratulations on an amazing season!
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Norwell Marching Knights Perform at ISSMA Scholastic B State Finals
The Norwell Marching Knights showcased their "Too Close to the Sun" show throughout the season, earning them a Gold Rating with Visual Distinction at ISSMA Prelims qualifying for the ISSMA Scholastic B Finals. They wrapped up an incredible season with a 5th-place at State.
Congratulations to the Marching Knights for an outstanding performance and a season to remember!
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Photo courtesy of The News-Banner |
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Watch for Our Second Semester Housing Survey Email
As part of Indiana’s McKinney-Vento and Title I funding requirements, we’ll be sending a second semester housing survey via email. This helps us identify and support students who may be experiencing housing changes or instability. Please take a moment to complete it when you receive it—your response ensures every student has access to the resources they need to succeed.
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School Calendar Dates to Note
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January 13 - School Board Meeting (Annual Financial Report) - NHS H200 @ 5:30p
January 21 - Late Start Wednesday - PD 2 Hour Delay
January 27 - School Board Meeting - NMS Cafetorium @ 5:30p - Followed by Community Town Hall Q&A Session
February 5 - NHS/NMS Coffee and Conversation with Superintendent Springer @ 7:15a (NMS Office)
February 10 - School Board Meeting - NHS H200 @ 5:30p
February 12- LES Coffee and Conversation with Superintendent Springer @ 9:00a
February 18 - Late Start Wednesday - PD 2 Hour Delay
February 19 - OES Coffee and Conversation with Superintendent Springer @ 9:00a
February 24 - School Board Meeting - NMS Cafetorium @ 5:30p - Followed by Community Town Hall Q&A Session
March 5 - NHS/NMS Coffee and Conversation with Superintendent Springer @ 7:15a (NMS Office)
March 10 - School Board Meeting - NHS H200 @ 5:30p
March 12 - LES Coffee and Conversation with Superintendent Springer @ 9:00a
March 18 - Late Start Wednesday - PD 2 Hour Delay
March 19 - OES Coffee and Conversation with Superintendent Springer @ 9:00a
March 23-27 - Spring Break - No School
April 3 - Good Friday - No School
April 7 - School Board Meeting - NHS H200 @ 5:30p
April 7 - Enrollment for New and Returning Students Opens for 2026-2027
April 21 - School Board Meeting - NHS H200 @ 5:30p
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