Dear Parents and Guardians,

It’s hard to believe this is the final newsletter for the 2025–2026 school year! What an incredible year it has been at 1R. I feel truly blessed to work with such amazing students, staff, and families. As we close out the busy month of May, please review the important reminders below:

Important Dates & Events:

• Last Day of School: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (Noon dismissal for all students)
• K–5 Vocal Music Concert: Monday, May 4 at 6:30 PM (Northwest Auditorium; students arrive at 6:15 PM)
• 5–8 Band Concert: Thursday, May 14 at 6:30 PM (Northwest Auditorium)

3rd-8th NSCAS State Testing

I want to give a HUGE shoutout to our students and staff for their hard work and dedication this year! I’m excited to share some unofficial numbers from our 3rd–8th grade NSCAS state testing:

• Math: Over 90% of students are on track or advanced
• ELA: Over 75% of students are on track or advanced
• 5th & 8th Grades Science: Over 95% on track or advanced

We also met all three of our School Improvement Goals this year!

I could not be more proud of the effort, growth, and determination our students have shown. A big thank you to our teachers for setting high expectations and supporting our students every step of the way. Our K–2 students are finishing their end-of-year benchmarks and are showing amazing growth as well.

Please take time to celebrate your child’s hard work—we are so proud of them!

Sports Physicals:

• Monday, May 11 from 5:00–6:30 PM at Northwest High School
• For incoming 8th–12th grade athletes
• Cost: $25 (forms available on the district website)

Summer & Health Information:

• Northwest Summer Camp information is available on the district website
• All incoming 7th graders must have a physical and updated immunizations before August

Field Day – Friday, May 15:

• Dismissal at 12:00 PM
• Field Day events begin at 12:45 PM and end around 2:30 PM at Northwest High School
• No make-up date due to weather; cancellation decision by 10:00 AM if needed
• Forms regarding lunch and transportation will be sent home—please return promptly
• 7th & 8th graders will assist with events
• PTO Event: Big Red Treats from 2:00–7:00pm (Downtown ONLY)

PTO Updates:

• Dining Night Out: May 5 at Culver’s (4:00–8:00 PM)
• Flower Pickup: May 7 (2:30–3:45 PM, east parking lot; gym if weather is poor)
• Next Meeting: Monday, June 1 at 6:00 PM

End-of-Year Reminders:

• All fees (technology, lunch, yearbooks) must be paid
• Library books must be returned or replacement fees will be applied
• Chromebooks and chargers will be checked; replacement charger fee is $25
• Students will not receive devices next year until fees are cleared

Last Day – Tuesday, May 19:

• 8th Grade Recognition: 8:00–8:45 AM (students dismissed after ceremony)
• All other students dismissed at 12:00 PM
• Congratulations to our 8th grade class!

As we wrap up the school year, thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education. It truly makes a difference. 1R and the Northwest School District are special places because of our strong community.

Please continue to check the 1R calendar, website, and Facebook page for updates.

Have a wonderful summer!

Sincerely,
Mr. Retzlaff
Principal