Falls City Public Schools

Texas Roadhouse Roll pick up Tuesday, March 19 4:30-5:30 Middle School north parking lot.

Mr. Tim Heckenlively is the recipient of the 2024 NRCSA Outstanding Superintendent Award. He is recognized throughout his district for his dedication to education, students, staff, and patrons. In the file the committee reviewed stated, “he has the respect and support of his community patrons with his transparency, news articles, and radio broadcasts keeping the patrons informed of all the good things going on in their district.” He has been a progressive leader in the district for 14 years. He has also been active on the state level, holding leadership roles in NRCSA and NCSA. An administrator of his district states that he is highly skilled in communication and relationship building. He has a strategic vision for educational excellence and makes decisions based on what is best for kids. One teacher stated that they continue to learn from him. They were taught about being a leader, supervisor, and a leader within the community. Another teacher in the district stated that he is a strategic thinker. He listens to opposing opinions and every person’s viewpoints and needs. He gathers that information to either resolve issues or make decisions. In this same letter of recommendation, this teacher says her godson was attending his first Administrator Days in Kearney and had the opportunity to hear her superintendent speak. His remarks were, “Wow, your superintendent is well respected and is liked by his colleagues!” This speaks volumes for his respect in and out of his district. From his colleagues, Mr. Heckenlively has helped me, mentored me, and guided me figuratively and literally. This year was made even more difficult as this year’s recipient not only serves on the committee but is also my Co-Chair and good friend. 

Good luck to the Tiger baseball team as they play in Crete. #Showyourstripes.

Pi Day celebrates the mathematical number π (pi) 3.14. A Pi Day celebration, organized by our sixth grade math teacher, is held on March 14 (better known as 3/14). Students designed the first 50 numbers of pi and hung them for display. Each math class held an in-class pi-memorization contest and enjoyed circular treats donated by parents (thanks, parents!). The top representative from each 6th grade math class competed in a final contest and all of these finalists got a certificate. Students really enjoy the challenge and can be heard reciting digits to each other during homeroom and break. Most students learn at least a few digits, and in the past, some have learned dozens!

Tiger Boys and Girls Track team is opening their season at Doane Indoor Track meet today. Good luck!

Tiger Baseball team is taking on Plattsmouth today in the season opener. Come support your home team, sun is shining.

Life Skills Snack Cart The Life Skills Class chooses items to order and sell. They stock the items on the cart. They take the cart around to all of the classrooms during study hall. They count the money and keep track of how much they earn. They use the money to purchase more supplies for the snack cart and any items that are needed in the classroom. Doing the snack cart gives the Life Skills students the opportunity to socialize with their peers and learn life skills in the process. It is good for all of our students to share in the learning process.

Mrs. Robin Ankrom is the recipient of the 2024 Gary Fisher OutstandingMusic Teacher award as a dedicated and passionate music educator at the Falls City Public Schools. Throughout her career, she has continually demonstrated an unwavering commitment to music education, positively impacting the lives of countless students.  Mrs. Ankrom has contributed significantly to the elementary music programs, leaving a lasting mark on both the school and the community of Falls City. She has played a pivotal role in the growth and expansion of music programs atFalls City. Over the years, she navigated several venue changes, ensuring that the elementary music programs evolved to meet the needs of a growing audience. The final relocation to Prichard Auditorium for the past35-years, stands as a testament to Ankrom's dedication to providing quality musical experiences for students and our community.Mrs. Ankrom coordinated talent shows for North and SouthElementary Schools. This effort showcased student’s ability to tailor musical experiences. Furthermore, her dedication to music education is exemplified by her involvement in events like "Sing Around Nebraska" and"Concerts for Youth." These experiences not only broaden students' musical perspective but also create lasting memories and appreciation for the arts .Mrs. Ankrom's commitment to musical enrichment extends beyond the classroom, with the initiation and coordination of Honors Choir atSouth Elementary School. The choir was a testament to her creative approach and added entertainment at nursing home performances and school programs.Mrs. Ankrom has demonstrated her educational leadership at the local, state, and national levels through her long standingFCEA, NSEA, and NEA engagement. Her commitment to the Falls City EducationAssociation (FCEA) for over 37 years speaks volumes about her dedication to advocating for educators and promoting excellence in education. She has served in various leadership capacities within FCEA, including a remarkable27-year tenure as President. Her roles as Secretary, Building Rep, VicePresident, and Chief Negotiator underscore her effectiveness and impact within the association.At the state-level, Mrs. Ankrom's service on the CapitolDistrict Executive Committee and as Capitol District Secretary for 9 years reflects her commitment to broader educational issues. Her leadership further demonstrates a commitment to advancing education at the state and national levels, while shaping education policy and advocating for the profession.In conclusion, Mrs. Ankrom is not only a highly accomplished music educator but also an exemplary leader and advocate for education. Her enduring impact on students, colleagues, and the educational community is truly commendable. 

On Wednesday, March 13th, 10 new members were inducted into the Falls City Chapter of the National Honor Society. The program began with an introduction and history of National Honor Society led by the principal Mr. Gale Dunkhas. The four qualities embraced by the National Honor Society are Scholarship, Leadership, Character, and Service. The four qualities were described by the current National Honor Society officers. 2024 officers are Ava Armbruster, president, Ashleigh Kirkendall, vice-president, Grace Morris, secretary, and Emily Vitosh, treasurer. The induction pledge was then recited and cards and certificates were distributed. The ceremony was closed with a few words from Mr. Gale Dunkhas, principal/sponsor. The new inductees include juniors; Mylie Crawford, Jayme Ewers, Hayden Findlay, Derek Helmick, Kaitlyn Kirkendall, Gunner Lippold, and Trinity Pierce. Sophomores; Gavin Bauer, Ella Glathar, and Ethan Morris. The National Honor Society officers served cake and punch to the new members and their families following the induction. Mr. Don Hogue and Ms. Sara Barker sponsor the Falls City High School chapter. Inductees: Back Row L to R: Ethan Morris, Gavin Bauer, Derek Helmick, Hayden Findlay, Gunner Lippold. Front Row L to R: Kaitlyn Kirkendall, Mylie Crawford, Ella Glathar, Jayme Ewers, Trinity Pierce. Officers L to R: Ava Armbruster, Ashleigh Kirkendall, Grace Morris, Emily Vitosh.

P.I.E. has been an awesome supporter of our Falls City District 56 staff. Sonic drinks, rolls and fruit, caramel apple bar, nacho bar for conferences, and snacks today. Thank you so much for all you do for our students and staff!

Baking club had another successful day of making Lucky Charm Treats and Leprechaun Bait Chex Mix for St. Patrick's Day!

The Falls City Tiger Middle School Wrestling Team got to celebrate the end of a long season today with a pizza party from the coaches. These students athletes have been practicing/competing since January. Pizza tastes a lot better when you’re celebrating your 3rd ECNC Championship in 4 years. Congrats on a tough season, coaches are already looking forward to what these young wrestlers can do in the future. #TigerWrestlingPride

Tuesday evening, the FCPS ESports Rocket League Varsity Team (Ethan Boatright, Chase Brown, Eric Heinzelman, and Peyton Brown) defeated both teams from Ord, NE. The team improved to 7-1 and ranked 5th out of 32 teams in Division 3 of the NSESA. Their next match will be against Thayer Central's team, who are ranked 8th and 9th, next Thursday evening.

About 40 FCMS Musicians recently participated in the 1st annual Palmyra Middle School Music Contest and here are the results: Brandon Feighner-Sax solo-Superior Taytum Maddox-Sax solo-Superior Keylee Olberding-Sax solo-Excellent Callen Furnas-Trombone solo-Excellent Aiden Rego-Baritone solo-Honorable mention Gracie Gill-vocal solo-Excellent Arryn Chandler-vocal solo-Excellent Taytum Maddox-vocal solo-Superior Ryder Hullman & Corbin Lendermon-vocal Duet-Excellent Kenley Alexander & Brandon Feighner-vocal Duet-Excellent+ 8th grade mixed ensemble-vocal-superior- Joah Anderson, Kenley Alexander, Addison Daniels, Brandon Feighner, Camden Jean, Destiny Pierce, Jade Romo, Alexis Schawang, Farrah Wissler. 8th grade women's ensemble-Excellent+ Joah Anderson, Kenley Alexander, Addison Daniels, Madalynn Hawley, Taytum Maddox, Destiny Pierce, Jade Romo, Alexis Schawang, Bristol Titus, Farrah Wissler. Men's ensemble-Superior Brantly Sells, Andre Shafer, Conner Anderson, Brandon Feighner, Arik Hernandez, Deacon Jacobs, Camden Jean, Corbyn Kuker, Aiden Rego, 7th grade women's ensemble-Superior Ashlyn Alexander, Josslyn Bangert, Jordyn Choate, Bristol Coupe, Emma Gilkerson, Gracie Gill, Leah Goff, Maddie Johansen, Kaytlin Rhodd, Audrey Scrivens, Hallie Young

Gunner Lippold, a junior at Falls City High School, will be competing at the Nebraska State Speech Tournament on March 21st @ the campus of UNK. Not only did he qualify in one event but two. At districts, Gunner took third place in Humorous Prose and second place in POI (Program of Oral Interpretation.) Trinity Pierce received a 5th place medal for Serious Prose. Congratulations to Gunner, Trinity, and Mrs. Simon.

Middle School Wrestlers Competed at the ECNC Invitational tonight. Results: Seven 4ths Zane Elms Karson Simpson Andrew Gresham Destiny Pierce Shia Wisneski Kenley Alexander Emma Gilkerson Six 3rds Bella Johansen Hallie Young Keylee Olberding Nolan Nicholson Andre Shafer Brandon Collier Three Runner-Ups Ryder Hullman Elijah Leyden Brandon Feighner Four Champions Taytum Maddox Zade Bents Brantly Sells Tristan Randall Scored 175 total team points and are the 2024 ECNC Junior High Wrestling Champs! Great way to finish the season! #TigerWrestlingPride 🤼‍♀️🐅🤼

Tonight & Thursday night from 4:00 to 7:30 FCMS will host parent/teacher conferences. Coaches who do not have competitions will be in the building by 5:00 P.M. Most of our shared staff will be at FCHS Tuesday night & FCMS Thursday night. If you would like to touch base with a shared staff member who is not in the building this evening please let us know & we'll make sure they follow up with you.

Middle School Wrestlers Competed at the Syracuse Invitational tonight. Results: Six Runner-Ups Andre Shafer Zade Bents Nolan Nicholson Destiny Pierce Keylee Olberding Shia Wisneski Six Champions Tristen Randall Brandon Collier Brantly Sells Brandon Feighner Kenley Alexander Taytum Maddox Great job by all tonight keep it rolling into Conference tomorrow! #TigerWrestlingPride 🤼‍♀️🐅🤼

Our Early Childhood Education class visited Sixpence today. Thank you for the demonstrations with Smokey Susie, shaken baby syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome and neonatal abstinence syndrome. Great work!

South School students read 921 books during the third quarter while competing in the Read Bowl. Miss Ramsey, Mrs. Bauman, and Mrs. Gist's classes won the grade level competitions.