Our Middle School ISASP Celebration is coming up on April 30 from 1:00–3:25, and we’re ready to celebrate our students’ hard work! 🎉
Students who met their ISASP goals—including strong attendance, coming prepared with breakfast or snacks, staying engaged during testing, and being well-rested—will get to enjoy a fun afternoon together.
The celebration will take place at the MS gym entrance/football field and will include kettle corn (provided by MS Student Council) and Kona Shaved Ice (available for students to purchase). 🍿❄️
We are proud of the effort our students have put in—this is a great way to recognize their dedication and success!
Students who met their ISASP goals—including strong attendance, coming prepared with breakfast or snacks, staying engaged during testing, and being well-rested—will get to enjoy a fun afternoon together.
The celebration will take place at the MS gym entrance/football field and will include kettle corn (provided by MS Student Council) and Kona Shaved Ice (available for students to purchase). 🍿❄️
We are proud of the effort our students have put in—this is a great way to recognize their dedication and success!
Last but definitely not least in the shenanigans… 😄
Ms. Cullen was the lucky winner of the Spring Book Fair Teacher Challenge and earned the unforgettable opportunity to be duct taped to the wall! Throughout the game, students kept the tape coming, making sure she stayed securely in place while the excitement continued on the court. 🧻😆
There were lots of laughs, plenty of school spirit, and students loved being part of the fun. Thank you, Ms. Cullen, for being such a great sport and helping create another memorable moment for our students!
These kinds of experiences make school fun, build community, and give students something to smile about. More great memories in the books! 💙💛
Ms. Cullen was the lucky winner of the Spring Book Fair Teacher Challenge and earned the unforgettable opportunity to be duct taped to the wall! Throughout the game, students kept the tape coming, making sure she stayed securely in place while the excitement continued on the court. 🧻😆
There were lots of laughs, plenty of school spirit, and students loved being part of the fun. Thank you, Ms. Cullen, for being such a great sport and helping create another memorable moment for our students!
These kinds of experiences make school fun, build community, and give students something to smile about. More great memories in the books! 💙💛
Remember the sideline shenanigans......
We had even more fun celebrating our students with some well-earned rewards! 🎉
Congratulations to our No Tardy Party Egg Hunt winners! These three students earned their spot through their commitment to being on time and ready to learn. The hunt was competitive, the eggs were hidden well, and the excitement was high. Great job to everyone who qualified! 🥚🐣
The fun continued at halftime of the 6th grade game, when the three egg hunt winners, along with two additional students who purchased the experience using Critter Coin, got the chance to pie Mr. Brandauer, Dr. Kelly, Ms. Sickles, and Mr. Wagoner. 🥧🤣
There were plenty of laughs, a little whipped cream, and unforgettable memories made. Thank you to our staff members for being great sports and helping create positive, engaging incentives for our students.
We love celebrating responsibility, positive behavior, and school spirit — and this was a perfect example of all three! 💙💛
We had even more fun celebrating our students with some well-earned rewards! 🎉
Congratulations to our No Tardy Party Egg Hunt winners! These three students earned their spot through their commitment to being on time and ready to learn. The hunt was competitive, the eggs were hidden well, and the excitement was high. Great job to everyone who qualified! 🥚🐣
The fun continued at halftime of the 6th grade game, when the three egg hunt winners, along with two additional students who purchased the experience using Critter Coin, got the chance to pie Mr. Brandauer, Dr. Kelly, Ms. Sickles, and Mr. Wagoner. 🥧🤣
There were plenty of laughs, a little whipped cream, and unforgettable memories made. Thank you to our staff members for being great sports and helping create positive, engaging incentives for our students.
We love celebrating responsibility, positive behavior, and school spirit — and this was a perfect example of all three! 💙💛
The long-awaited 6th Grade Boys vs. Girls Basketball Game finally happened… and it did NOT disappoint! 🏀🎉
The gym was full of energy, laughter, and just the right amount of friendly competition. Both teams came ready to play, showing off their skills, teamwork, and school spirit. Even more importantly, the kids had SO much fun — which is exactly what this was all about!
And let’s be honest… the action wasn’t just on the court. There were plenty of sideline shenanigans that kept everyone smiling and added to the unforgettable atmosphere. 🤣 Stay tuned… more coming on those soon!
Thank you to everyone who helped make this such a memorable event for our 6th graders. It’s moments like these that build connections, create memories, and remind us how great it is to be part of this community. 💙💛
The gym was full of energy, laughter, and just the right amount of friendly competition. Both teams came ready to play, showing off their skills, teamwork, and school spirit. Even more importantly, the kids had SO much fun — which is exactly what this was all about!
And let’s be honest… the action wasn’t just on the court. There were plenty of sideline shenanigans that kept everyone smiling and added to the unforgettable atmosphere. 🤣 Stay tuned… more coming on those soon!
Thank you to everyone who helped make this such a memorable event for our 6th graders. It’s moments like these that build connections, create memories, and remind us how great it is to be part of this community. 💙💛
Don't forget to place your 2025-2026 Clarke Middle School Yearbook order! To order in person, bring $21 to Mrs. Manternach. We hope to sell 40 more yearbooks before the end of the year to reach our goal of 85 sales! Order online here: https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/productBrowse/2765605/Clarke-Middle-School/2026-Yearbook/20260105131512803149/CATALOG_SHOP/
Round TWO of Critter Coin Give Back in action… and wow, are we blown away! 🐾💙
Today, another group of our incredible students chose to cash in their hard-earned Critter Coins not for prizes, not for perks—but to GIVE BACK to our community at the local animal shelter. And let me tell you… it was something special.
These students showed up ready to work, ready to serve, and most importantly, ready to love on some animals who needed it most. From cleaning and organizing to giving extra attention and care, they represented Clarke with compassion, responsibility, and heart.
THIS is what it’s all about.
Choosing service.
Choosing others.
Choosing impact over instant rewards.
We couldn’t be more proud of these students for using their Critter Coins in such a meaningful way. It’s truly amazing to watch young people lead with kindness and make a difference beyond our walls.
One Tribe. One Family. ALL IN. 💙
And as always… one day closer to high school!
And the best part -it's just the start!
April showers tried… but they couldn’t stop the fun today! 🌦️🥚
Our No Tardy Party egg hunt at the stadium was a HUGE success—over 1,000 eggs didn’t stand a chance against these students! 🏃♂️💨 The rain held off just long enough for some serious hunting, laughter, and well-earned celebration.
We are so proud of the hard work it takes to show up on time, every day. Keep it up—you’ve earned it! 👏🎉
One Tribe. One Family. All In. 💙
…and one day closer to high school!
Tonight’s middle school boys and girls track meet at Wayne has been canceled. It will not be made up.
April showers can’t stop the fun at Breakout (aka recess)! 🌧️➡️🏀
Our 7th graders took the energy inside today and made the gym the place to be—games, laughter, and a whole lot of movement!
A giant shoutout to our amazing staff who supervise and make these brain breaks possible, and to the community members who come in to help support our students—your time and energy make a huge difference! 💙
Now… if the rain could take a little break, we’re more than ready to get back outside! ☀️😄
🐾💙 Clarke Middle School Students Making a Difference! 💙🐾
Today was one of those days that reminds us what truly matters. Our first group of 10 students had the opportunity to visit the Clarke County Animal Shelter—and they showed up in the best way possible: ready to serve, care, and give back.
At Clarke Middle School, students earn Critter Coins—our digital reward system that recognizes positive behavior, effort, and leadership. Students can “cash in” those coins for different incentives like front-of-the-lunch-line passes, snacks, or extra game time… but what makes us incredibly proud is THIS:
✨ Over 20 students chose to use their Critter Coins to give back to our community. ✨
Instead of choosing something for themselves, they chose to serve others. Today, that meant helping care for animals, supporting the shelter staff, and showing compassion where it matters most.
This is servant leadership in action.
This is community connection at its finest.
This is what it means to be part of the Clarke family.
We couldn’t be more proud of these students for choosing kindness, responsibility, and heart. 💙🐶
#OneTribe #ClarkePride #ServantLeadership #MakingADifference
Any current 8th, 9th, 10th, & 11th grade student who is interested in flags should attend this informational meeting: Thursday, April 9 during WIN (9:59-10:26 AM) in the 7-12 Band Room. You do not need to be a band member in order to audition for flags; however, if you make the squad, then you must be able to fit band into your class schedule for the first quarter of next year. If you miss the meeting, then talk to Mrs. Kelso (the High School Band Director). Auditions will be held every day during WIN the week of April 13-17.
April Fools’ Day brought the FUN today at middle school lunch! 🎉
Just as students were settling in, our staff surprised everyone with a full-on flash mob to the Cupid Shuffle—yes, we went ALL in! 💃🕺 The looks of surprise quickly turned into laughter, smiles, and a whole lot of cheering.
Moments like these remind us that school is more than just academics—it’s about connection, joy, and building memories together. These are the moments we cherish as a staff, and we’re so grateful to share them with our students.
#AprilFools #OneTribe #MiddleSchoolMagic
Two down… and just one (or two!) to go! 💪📚
Our 6th and 7th graders have just ONE test remaining, and our 8th graders have TWO left—so close to the finish line! I have been so incredibly proud of how hard our students have worked and the way they’ve taken their time to do their very best on each test. It shows! 🙌
A few reminders as we head into the final stretch:
✨ Be on time each day
✨ Enjoy FREE breakfast all week
✨ We currently have fewer than 10 tests to make up—amazing!
Thank you for showing up, staying focused, and being present. It makes all the difference.
I am so very proud of each and every student—let’s finish the week STRONG! 💥
– Dr. Kelly
We wrapped up our ISASP Kickoff Week in the best way possible—with a GLOW DANCE! ✨🕺💃
During 8th hour, the lights went down, the black lights came on, and our students lit up the room—literally! From neon colors to glowing smiles, the energy was contagious as students danced, laughed, and celebrated together.
A perfect way to end the week—reminding us that just like they glowed on the dance floor, their knowledge is ready to shine on the test! 🌟📚
Let’s carry that confidence into next week—go show what you know! 💪 #OneTribe #ISASPReady
What a way to wrap up our ISASP Kickoff Week! 🎉🏀
During advisory today, our 7th and 8th grade boys challenged the girls to a friendly game—but the 8th grade girls had a little surprise up their sleeves… 😏
In true team spirit (and with a touch of mischief), they brought in some “subs”—our varsity boys—rocking bright neon wigs and bringing the energy! Between student coaches, cheerleaders, and referees, the gym was full of laughter, teamwork, and just the right amount of shenanigans.
All in good fun and a great reminder that confidence, collaboration, and a positive mindset matter—on the court and in the classroom.
Now… let’s take that same energy and show what we know on Monday! 💪📚 #OneTribe #ISASPReady
🚀 ISASP Kickoff Week is Almost Here! 📚✨
Next week, we’re getting ready to crush ISASP! Let’s use this week to:
🎉 Dress up and show your Clarke pride
🙌 Show up ready to learn
🧠 Practice our skills and get confident
💪 Get in the mindset to give our best effort
It’s all about preparing, supporting each other, and building excitement for the big week ahead.
Next week, we’re getting ready to crush ISASP! Let’s use this week to:
🎉 Dress up and show your Clarke pride
🙌 Show up ready to learn
🧠 Practice our skills and get confident
💪 Get in the mindset to give our best effort
It’s all about preparing, supporting each other, and building excitement for the big week ahead.
🌟 Adventure Awaits! Mr. Kedley’s 8th grade U.S. History students have been diving into Westward Expansion, and to celebrate before Spring Break, they took on the Oregon Trail!
Today our 8th graders represented Clarke in an incredible way during the NAEP assessment! 👏
For those who may not know, NAEP (The National Assessment of Educational Progress) is often called “The Nation’s Report Card.” It’s a federal assessment that helps measure how students across the country are performing in key academic areas and provides important data about education nationwide.
And today… our students absolutely shined.
The federal NAEP team shared that our students were so respectful, focused, and genuinely trying their best that they commented they wished they had requested Clarke as a model school to film the setup and process. They shared they had never experienced such a smooth, respectful testing environment with students working so hard.
We could not be more proud of the way our 8th graders represented our school, their teachers, and our community. Their effort, attitude, and respect did not go unnoticed.
To recognize their hard work and participation, each student also earned 2 hours of community service.
Great job, 8th grade! You made Clarke proud today. ❤️🖤
One Tribe.
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¡Hoy nuestros estudiantes de 8.º grado representaron a Clarke de una manera increíble durante la evaluación NAEP! 👏
Para quienes no lo conocen, NAEP (Evaluación Nacional del Progreso Educativo) es conocida como “la boleta de calificaciones de la nación.” Es una evaluación federal que ayuda a medir cómo están aprendiendo los estudiantes en todo el país en áreas académicas clave y proporciona información importante sobre la educación a nivel nacional.
Y hoy… nuestros estudiantes realmente brillaron.
El equipo federal de NAEP compartió que nuestros estudiantes fueron muy respetuosos, enfocados y realmente se esforzaron al máximo. Incluso comentaron que desearían haber solicitado a Clarke como escuela modelo para filmar cómo organizamos y llevamos a cabo el proceso. Dijeron que nunca habían visto un ambiente de evaluación tan tranquilo, respetuoso y con estudiantes trabajando con tanto esfuerzo.
No podríamos estar más orgullosos de la manera en que nuestros estudiantes de 8.º grado representaron a nuestra escuela, a sus maestros y a nuestra comunidad. Su esfuerzo, actitud y respeto no pasaron desapercibidos.
Para reconocer su trabajo y participación, cada estudiante también recibió 2 horas de servicio comunitario.
¡Excelente trabajo, 8.º grado! Hoy hicieron sentir orgulloso a Clarke. ❤️🖤
Una Tribu.
Our 8th graders are hard at work researching animals and filling out their brackets for a simulated battle of the beasts! Students are predicting which animals will win head-to-head matchups in different habitats as part of 2026 March Mammal Madness.
Each matchup takes place on a unique “battlefield” habitat, and top-seeded animals even get Home Habitat advantage until the final rounds!
Starting next week, we’ll begin tracking the battles to see which animal will be crowned champion!
March Mammal Madness, now in its 10th year, is organized by researchers at Arizona State University, and thousands of classrooms across the country are participating. Our students are already very invested in their picks, and the excitement is building!
It’s going to be a wild and fun learning experience as science, research, and a little friendly competition come together
Each matchup takes place on a unique “battlefield” habitat, and top-seeded animals even get Home Habitat advantage until the final rounds!
Starting next week, we’ll begin tracking the battles to see which animal will be crowned champion!
March Mammal Madness, now in its 10th year, is organized by researchers at Arizona State University, and thousands of classrooms across the country are participating. Our students are already very invested in their picks, and the excitement is building!
It’s going to be a wild and fun learning experience as science, research, and a little friendly competition come together
🎭💰 Today at Clarke Middle School, students learned that money doesn’t grow on trees… but it can grow with smart choices!
Our students enjoyed a fun and engaging performance of “Fund Your Future” by the National Theatre for Children, sponsored by the Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services. Through plenty of laughs, storytelling, and interactive moments, students explored real-life financial skills like budgeting, understanding the difference between debit and credit cards, and how the choices they make now can help grow their earning potential later on.
The actors did an incredible job making topics like saving, spending, and planning for the future both entertaining and memorable. It’s safe to say our students left with a few new financial tips—and maybe a few new jokes about money too!
A big thank you to the National Theatre for Children and the Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services for bringing this opportunity to our students and helping make financial literacy fun.
#OneTribe #ClarkeCommunitySchools #FundYourFuture #FinancialLiteracy 💳📈
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🎭💰 Hoy en Clarke Middle School, los estudiantes aprendieron que el dinero no crece en los árboles… ¡pero sí puede crecer con decisiones inteligentes!
Nuestros estudiantes disfrutaron de una presentación divertida y participativa de “Fund Your Future” por el National Theatre for Children, patrocinada por el Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services. A través de momentos llenos de humor, historias y participación del público, los estudiantes exploraron habilidades financieras de la vida real como hacer un presupuesto, entender la diferencia entre las tarjetas de débito y crédito, y cómo las decisiones que toman hoy pueden ayudarles a aumentar su potencial de ingresos en el futuro.
Los actores hicieron un trabajo increíble al convertir temas como ahorrar, gastar y planificar para el futuro en algo entretenido y fácil de recordar. ¡Es seguro decir que nuestros estudiantes se fueron con algunos nuevos consejos financieros—y tal vez también con algunos chistes nuevos sobre el dinero!
Muchas gracias al National Theatre for Children y al Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services por brindar esta oportunidad a nuestros estudiantes y ayudar a que la educación financiera sea divertida.
#OneTribe #ClarkeCommunitySchools #FundYourFuture #EducaciónFinanciera 💳📈
