Education

Three area teachers were among 86 teachers across Iowa that participated in the 2025 Iowa STEM Teacher Externships Program this summer. This program offers teachers the chance to gain hands-on STEM-related work experiences at various local workplaces to help enrich their classroom instruction with real-world applications. Since its launch in 2009, the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education has facilitated over 1,000 teacher externships throughout the state.

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) Business and Community Solutions is offering the STEAM Makerspace Open Lab sessions for students in third through seventh grades. The following youth classes will run from 3:30-5 p.m. at the NICC Waukon Center, 1220 3rd Avenue NW:

September 17: STEAM Open Lab - Session 1
October 1: STEAM Open Lab - Session 2
October 15: STEAM Open Lab - Session 3
December 10: STEAM Open Lab - Session 4.

The lab is a learning space for creative exploration of STEAM. Participants can use Legos, robotics, electronics, create movies and animation, design and build and more. A teacher will be available to guide students in the basic use of the tools and technology. Registrations are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

To register online visit www.nicc.edu/waukon or call the NICC Waukon Center at 844-642-2338, ext. 6700.
 

by Brianne Grimstad

The Allamakee Community School District (ACSD) School Board of Directors met for its regular monthly meeting Monday night, August 18. Under the Consent Agenda items, the board approved the following personnel: 2025-2026 Mentors and Kids Club staff; Virgil Johnson, School Bus Driver; Kloe Hemmersbach, Middle School Paraprofessional; Julie Lenth, EL Sharing Stipend; Marie Plein, Cook; Revised Paraprofessional Hours for Erin Thornton and Rob Johanningmeier; Rosalyn Samuelson, West Elementary Library Assistant and General Paraprofessional; and Rachel Noecker and Laura Iseli both as West Elementary Paraprofessionals. The board also accepted resignations from Penny Barr, Cook; Emma Hatlan, Paraprofessional; and Dustin Rounds, Varsity Softball Coach.

Robey Memorial Library in Waukon announces a unique opportunity as part of its Live & Learn series: “Making Buttons & Magnets.” Join a hands-on workshop scheduled for Thursday, August 28, at 5:30 p.m. in the lower level Community Room of the library.

Participants will have the chance to unleash their creativity using the library’s button and magnet making machine. Whether there’s an interest in creating personalized keepsakes, unique gifts, or simply exploring a new craft, this event promises something for everyone. Materials will be provided by Robey Memorial Library, but attendees are encouraged to bring any specific items they wish to transform into cherished mementos.

“This workshop is designed to be both fun and educational,” said Sid Becker, Robey Memorial Library staff instructor. “It’s a fantastic way to learn a new skill while enjoying a creative evening with friends and family.”

Monthly on the second Wednesday, Robey Memorial Library in Waukon offers Grab & Go activity bags on a first-come, first-serve basis. Bags include instructions and supplies for at-home activities; are new monthly; and include age appropriate activities for kids and teens. Contact Robey Memorial Library at 563-568-4424 or www.waukon.lib.ia.us with questions.
 

Sarah Stock of Allamakee County was awarded the Iowa Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association 4-H Scholarship through the Iowa 4-H Foundation at a recognition ceremony held Sunday, June 29 in Ames. One hundred and fifteen Iowa 4-H scholarships valued at over $121,850 were awarded as a part of the Foundation’s scholarship recognition ceremony. Over 450 applications were submitted, and scholarships have been awarded to recipients from 58 counties across the state of Iowa with a wide variety of 4-H experiences.

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) Business and Community Solutions is offering Ready, Aim, Fun!  Sportsman’s Archery Adventure Monday and Tuesday, September 8-9. The youth class will run from 4-6 p.m. at the Allamakee County Sportsman’s Club, located at 450 State Highway 9, west of Waukon.

Ready to discover a new passion and build valuable skills? This workshop is a perfect fit for children ages 7-12. Over two exciting days, expert instructor(s) will guide participating children through everything they need to know about archery, from essential safety techniques to the thrill of hitting the bullseye. The learning will be fun with engaging archery games, exciting challenges and developing skills that extend far beyond the archery range.

No prior experience is needed, and all the necessary equipment is provided. Students are welcome to bring their own archery equipment.

Allamakee County Democrats recently sponsored a school supply drive to benefit the Allamakee County Relief Office. The donated supplies pictured above will be distributed to students in need for the upcoming school year. Pictured at that donation presentation are (left to right) Ann Hart of the Allamakee County Democrats and Allamakee County Relief Office Director Rebecca Hawes. Submitted photo.
 

by Susan Cantine-Maxson

The Eastern Allamakee Community School District (EACSD) Board of Directors met on two occasions during the past month, including a June 26 special meeting and the board’s regular monthly meeting held Monday, July 14. Coverage of both meetings is provided below.

JUNE 26 MEETING
At its Thursday, June 26 special meeting, the EACSD Board approved several personnel and financial matters, including minutes from the previous meeting, held June 9. No public comment was offered during the session.

A multi-year agreement with the Eastern Allamakee Education Association, representing the district’s teaching staff, was approved. In addition, the board approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chauffeurs & Teamsters Union, which represents the district’s hourly staff. Non-union employees will receive a 1.70% compensation increase for Fiscal Year 2026.

Robey Memorial Library in Waukon invites the community to join staff for an informative session on pet adoption with “Homeward Bound: Pet Adoption Basics,” which is part of the library’s Live & Learn series aimed at enriching lives through education July 31 at 5:30 p.m. in the lower level Community Room.

This engaging event presented by the Northeast Iowa Humane Society covers essential aspects of pet adoption, including the adoption process itself and available volunteer opportunities. Attendees will have the chance to hear heartwarming success stories from the local community.

In addition to these topics, the discussion will also delve into important practical considerations such as adoption costs, including ongoing expenses, and beginning care. Whether considering adopting a pet or interested in supporting local adoption efforts, this session promises to be informative and inspiring.