News

Volume 10 | Number 2

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is Issue #2 of our tenth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 56 of Rise as we reach a decade of bringing the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

We start things “At the Top,” with a piece on ways to dive deeper into the comings and goings at Senior High in addition to Rise. In her “Foundation Focus” piece, Abigayle Frazier-Hansen walks through the Foundation’s Classroom Grants and all the good educational opportunities they afford GIPS students. Kari Hooker-Leep’s “Making Your Mark” is a deep dive into how alumni can still be part of the ongoing story that is Grand Island Senior High. Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” tracks the highs and lows of three events from the last year. The transitory nature of March is the subject of my “I’ve Been Thinking” column.

Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta takes us to a beautiful place where motor vehicles are unwelcome. “On the Island” correspondent, Alex Weaver, introduces us to Senior High’s Hulagans, who continue to spread good vibes on North Lafayette. Our Milestone this issue features an Islander who is Nebraska’s newest District Judge.

As usual, in our In Memoriam we honor those Islanders who have passed, in Reunions we have class gatherings and other class get-togethers, and in Class Notes we have the lives and times of Islanders everywhere. And, once again, you’ll get a chance to test your memory or at least your Google search skills with another edition of Islander Trivia.

Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

Second-grade students across the district are exploring the world in greater detail, thanks to the “Microscope Marvels” Classroom Grant, funded by the GIPS Foundation. This project provided digital microscopes to all 36 second-grade classrooms, transforming how young learners experience science. McKenna Supencheck, second-grade teacher at Dodge, said about this grant, “I think it's awesome to use grants for things like this so we can do hands-on things, because we're teaching and we're talking all the time, but being able to provide an actual experience where they can see things and remember… they will remember this for a long time.”

At Shoemaker Elementary, first graders are gaining confidence and improving their reading skills, thanks to the “Decoding Our Way Through First Grade” grant, funded by the GIPS Foundation. This Classroom Grant provided a collection of decodable books to help early readers strengthen their phonics skills and develop a lasting love for reading.

Thanks to a Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Classroom Grant, Grand Island Senior High and Walnut, Barr, and Westridge middle schools recently hosted Bobby Truhe of KSB Law for a thought-provoking presentation on digital citizenship. Truhe used humor, real-life legal cases, and compelling statistics to highlight the responsibilities and risks tied to social media use.

Thanks to a GIPS Foundation Classroom Grant, students at Newell and Lincoln Elementary Schools brought their imaginations to life by creating clay monsters inspired by the book “Where the Wild Things Are”. Over 535 kindergarten through fifth-grade students participated in this hands-on project, led by artist-in-residence Nancy Fairbanks. Fairbanks taught students about clay and guided them through the process of working with it, encouraging creativity and self-expression as they crafted their own unique monsters.

This project “supports our Positive Supports goal, offering a meaningful outlet for creativity in the classroom,” said Principal Nate Balcom. By connecting literature with art, the activity not only enriched students’ learning but also provided a fun and engaging way to foster self-confidence and collaboration in a supportive environment.

At their January 15 meeting, the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors elected Kelly Enck, President; Paul Hoos, Vice-President; and Shane Wissmann, Secretary/Treasurer. The board elected Yetzira "Yetzy" Calvillo Bermudez, Robert Alexander and Jennifer Worthington as new board members.

Volume 10 | Number 1

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is Issue #1 of our tenth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 55 of Rise as we reach a decade of bringing the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

We'll start our roster of what’s inside this Rise in the Galapagos Islands, where Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta found some spectacular and unique animal species on her continued journeys across the face of the Earth. “On the Island” correspondent, Alex Weaver, gives us some inside information about GISH seniors embarking on their own journeys into the college and scholarship application process. Abigayle Frazier-Hansen brings us up to speed on said scholarships, highlighting those connected to former Senior High teachers and the impact they have made on students.

We start things “At the Top,” where we announce a new class inducted into the GISH Athletic Hall of Fame earlier this month. Kari Hooker-Leep’s “Making Your Mark” says goodbye to 2024 and looks to the year ahead. Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” piece this issue suggests that alums of a certain age need to find the balance between the “olden days” and today’s technology. My “I’ve Been Thinking” column tackles the subject of New Year’s Resolutions, more or less … mostly less.

As usual, in our In Memoriam we have a list of Islanders who have passed, in Reunions we have class gatherings and other class get-togethers, and in Class Notes we have the lives and times of Islanders everywhere. And, once again, you’ll get a chance to test your memory or at least your Google search skills with another edition of Islander Trivia.

Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation is offering Major Saver cards through participating elementary schools. Students will receive their sales information packets on January 9 and 10 and sell the $15 discount cards until January 20. Profits from the Major Saver cards directly support the participating schools. Grand Island Public Schools has received over $174,000 in proceeds from these sales since 2016.

Volume 9 | Number 6

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is Issue #6, the last of our ninth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 54 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

We'll start our roster of what’s inside this Rise in Switzerland, where Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta takes us on a tour of a quaint village where cows and cheese are both revered. “On the Island” correspondent Alex Weaver details the “Little Mermaid,” which graced Senior High’s big stage, among the many happenings in Purple and Gold land this fall. Abigayle Frazier-Hansen, as is her wont to do, shows us the tangible impact your contributions have made, this time through Legacy Grants.

We start things with “At the Top”, where we’ll revisit some holiday ideas and traditions at GISH. Kari Hooker-Leep’s “Making Your Mark” piece is all about volunteers. The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director makes the argument -- rightly -- that volunteering is a labor of love. Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” piece this issue chronicles his fantasy baseball league, which just celebrated year 45. My “I’ve Been Thinking” column recalls the “thinking” lessons I learned at Senior High and how they are still important, perhaps even more so in a modern world filled with more information and less truthfulness.

As usual, in our In Memoriam we have a list of Islanders who have passed, in Reunions we have class gatherings and other class get-togethers, and in Class Notes we have the lives and times of Islanders everywhere. And, once again, you’ll get a chance to test your memory or your Google search skills with another edition of Islander Trivia.

Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

For the 2024-2025 school year, 14 grants totaling $12,091 were awarded through the Classroom Grants process. Grants range from $50 to $2,500. The Janeth Davis Memorial Fund generously provided funds to expand the Classroom Grant program. 6,346 students will benefit from a classroom grant this school year.

Volume 9 | Number 5

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is Issue #5 of our ninth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 53 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: Say hello to Alex Weaver, our new “On the Island” correspondent. I’ll leave it to Alex to introduce himself in his column, where he also fills us in on a summer filled with preparation for the new school year. Abigayle Frazier-Hansen gives us the deets on what’s happening at the GIPS Foundation office.

“At the Top” argues that GISH students might benefit from a history course on, you guessed it, Grand Island Senior High. Once again, you’ll get a chance to test your memory, your skill, or your Google search skills with another edition of “Islander Trivia.”

In her “Making Your Mark” piece, Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director Kari Hooker-Leep takes us through the thrills of the Welcome Back event for GIPS teachers and staff. If you're a Willa Cather fan, and I’m betting many of you are, read Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” on “My Antonia.” Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta takes to the sheer beauty and grandeur of Alaska while my “I’ve Been Thinking” piece ponders the word Harvest as it relates to the seasons and the Foundation’s big event scheduled for Sept. 26.

As usual, in our In Memoriam we have a list of Islanders who have passed, in Reunions we have class gatherings and other class get-togethers, and in Class Notes we have the lives and times of Islanders everywhere.

Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

During the 2023-24 school year, Engleman Elementary received a Classroom Grant from the GIPS Foundation, facilitating an extraordinary journey through the cosmos for its first-grade students. Through a collaboration between Catherine Klanecky, Jennifer Ehlers, Amy Samuelson, and Emily Craw, the grant brought to life an enchanting experience with a portable planetarium from the Explorit Center, integrating lessons from both Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) and Science curricula.

The start of school brings excitement and nerves, but for a few staff members at Grand Island Public Schools, the year started with a humbling surprise.

During the district’s all-staff welcome back assembly on Monday, August 12, the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation celebrated and honored six educators as part of their Teacher of the Year awards. The award winners represent different categories, which include: Elementary School Teacher of the Year, Middle School Teacher of the Year, High School Teacher of the Year, Specialist of the Year, Staff Member of the Year, and Administrator of the Year.

Volume 9 | Number 4

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is Issue #4 of our ninth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 52 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: “At the Top'' underscores the notion that as GISH is in some transitions, so too is Rise. You’ll also have a chance to meet two new writers -- Mike Bockoven and Abi Hansen -- for the newsletter and bid adieu to a third.

Part of that transition will be an addition to the Rise lineup: “Islander Trivia.” Each issue you’ll get the chance to test your memory (or your Google search skills) with some questions specific to our alma mater. Good luck.

In her “Making Your Mark” piece, Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director Kari Hooker-Leep reminds us that summer is a good time to say thank you to GIPS teachers and staff. Avery Rogers, our wonderful student correspondent, pens her last column for Rise.

Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” explores the world of sleep, from why we need it to how it is used in literature (Shakespeare) and song (the Beatles.) Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta is sharing her summer bucket list, which she can complete close to home in a place she loves: Colorado. Yours truly has some moveable news in “I’ve Been Thinking,” plus some tips on downsizing and what it says about our family stories.

As usual, in our In Memoriam we have a list of Islanders who have passed, in Reunions we have class gatherings and other class get-togethers, and in Class Notes we have the lives and times of Islanders everywhere.

Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

Volume 9 | Number 3
Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.
This is Issue #3 of our ninth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 51 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.
Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: “At the Top'' checks in on the progress of Senior High now as a cell phone free zone. While many high schools still wrestle with what to do about cell phone use on campus, in January, GISH decided it would eliminate them during the school day.
In her “Making Your Mark” piece, Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep asks members of the Class of 2024 what their legacies will be. On that same subject, our intrepid student correspondent, Senior Avery Rogers, asks some of her classmates what graduation will mean to them as they prepare to move smartly into the worlds of work, military service, college, or whatever the next chapter holds for them.
Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” writes about the years he was a minority owner of the Major League Baseball San Diego Padres. Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta writes about the 80th anniversary of D-Day and a trip she took there last year.
Bianca Ayala gives us the details from Gates Elementary’s Fun Fair and her perspective as the school’s principal.
We have two Milestone’s this issue, both awards to well-deserving alums. As usual, in our In Memoriam we have a list of Islanders who have passed, in Reunions we have class gatherings and other class get-togethers, and in Class Notes we have the lives and times of Islanders everywhere.
Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation proudly announced the remarkable results of its 21st annual Add it Up to Opportunity! staff and board member fund drive during a news conference held at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, May 13. The event took place at the prestigious Bill Marshall/Five Points Bank Champions Hall, within the iconic Memorial Stadium/Jack Martin Field, symbolizing over two decades of unwavering dedication and support from the GIPS staff.

With gratitude, the GIPS Foundation acknowledged the outstanding generosity of its staff, who presented 9,990 reasons to invest in student opportunities. A significant highlight of this year's campaign was the heartfelt gesture from Cheryl and Douglas Jensen who provided a $5,000 challenge gift. Their pledge served as a matching fund for all new and increased contributions towards the 2024 Add it Up to Opportunity Staff Campaign. Cheryl and Douglas have been involved with the Grand Island Public Schools since 1971. Cheryl as a Title 1 Perceptual Motor Specialist and Elementary Physical Education Teacher and Douglas as a Speech/Language Pathologist, Program Coordinator of Special Education at the Secondary Level, and a Grand Island Senior High Administrator.

The Foundation has given Cheryl and Douglas many memorable experiences. Cheryl and Douglas have had the opportunity to participate in nearly all of the committees associated with the Foundation and to see the impact it has provided the students and staff of the Grand Island Public Schools. Cheryl was able to see a teacher selected as a Legendary Educator that she helped nominate. Douglas personally saw the results of the Foundation’s recognition when he was awarded Administrator of the Year in his final year as Grand Island Senior High Principal.

The Jensen’s note that the Foundation is a vehicle for change that supports not only the students at all levels within the district but also the people who keep our facilities clean, work as aides, teach, and administrate. It is important to do those things that bring you joy, and supporting innovative teachers and their students brings us joy.

Running from March 25 to April 22, the campaign witnessed remarkable engagement, with a 85% participation rate. Together, the staff and board members of Grand Island Public Schools and the GIPS Foundation raised an impressive $91,183.59.

The proceeds from the campaign will further enrich Foundation programs, including the Academic Aristocrat Scholarship and Teacher of the Year initiatives. Additionally, the funds will bolster Foundation operations, endowment efforts, and the Classroom Grant program. During the 2022-2023 school year alone, the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation invested an extraordinary $1,418,061 into various programs, scholarships, and grants benefiting students.

During the most recent round of Classroom Grants, the GIPS Foundation awarded a grant to Starr Elementary to establish the "Stallion Sharing Stable," a project aimed at providing essential supplies and resources to families in need at Starr Elementary. This grant underscores the Foundation's commitment to fund opportunities for students that are not available through the school district's general budget.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation seeks a highly committed and talented professional to join our staff as a Fundraising Coordinator. The Fundraising Coordinator will be responsible for the leadership, management, and execution of the GIPS Foundation’s special events. A minimum of 3 years of development experience including demonstrated success in individual giving, corporate sponsorship, special events fundraising, and management. The position is a 12-month position at 32 hours per week. Salary range $36,000 – $45,000 + benefits after probationary period. Send resume to Kari Hooker-Leep, Executive Director. Position open until filled.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is Issue #2 of our ninth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 50 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: “At the Top'' looks at a trio of GISH leaders who are retiring at the end of the school year: Executive Principal, Jeff Gilbertson; Activities Director, Cindy Wells; and Head Football Coach, Jeff Tomlin. Be sure to read their stories.

In her “Making Your Mark” piece, Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, points out how you can support the work of the Foundation, which supports students, teachers, and alums in a number of ways. Avery Rogers gives us insight into her favorite activity at school: show choir. Get the details in Avery’s “On the Island'' article.

Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” lists his favorite movies about high school, including one nominated for many awards this year. Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta reminds us that sometimes what looks like an unfortunate change in travel plans can actually be an opportunity for a wonderful time. My “I’ve Been Thinking” column profiles five GISH teachers and what they taught me, part of my remarks during the Legends & Legacies event.

Milestones provides a link to the full biographies of Hall of Honor and Legendary Educator recipients feted on March 12. As usual we have an In Memoriam list of Islanders who have passed, in Reunions we have class gatherings and other class get togethers, and in Class Notes we have the lives and times of Islanders everywhere.

Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

The GIPS Foundation recently awarded a Classroom Grant to Howard Elementary School to acquire three sensory stations, providing educators with invaluable tools to cater to diverse learning needs. We had the opportunity to speak with Deb Glover, the counselor, and Amy Hannah, the social worker at Howard Elementary, who shared their excitement about the grant and the positive impact it is poised to make.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is Issue #1 of our ninth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 49 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: Our “At the Top'' story details the return of the Hall of Honor inductions and ceremony as three new members join HOH. (This would be a good time for me to say, yes, I am humbled and honored to be part of that trio.) Three Legendary Educators will also be part of the festivities scheduled for March 12, at the Legends & Legacies event.

In her “Making Your Mark” piece, Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, discusses what the Hall of Honor and Legendary Educator awards mean to her as a GISH alum. Avery Rogers catches us up on what’s happening at Senior High, including a new cell phone policy, in her “On the Island'' article.

Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” column takes us back to bingo nights at the Grand Island Eagles Club. Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta goes inside a museum devoted to shipwrecks and explains some of what Gordon Lightfoot sang in “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.” My column piggybacks on Avery’s piece with two memories at the corner of school and technology.

We have a letter in the (e)Mailbag as well as In Memoriam, Reunion gatherings, and the lives and times of Islanders everywhere in Class Notes.

We also have this Editor's Note: Annual Giving Coordinator and Rise keeper and caretaker is moving on from the Foundation. We said goodbye to Maggie McDermott in December, knowing how much she'll be missed, especially by the Rise family.

Keep in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

At their January 18 meeting, the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors elected Audrey Lutz-Musliek, President; Kelly Enck, Vice-President; and Shane Wissmann, Secretary/Treasurer. The board elected Alison Larson, Brandon Bowley, Valerie Porto and Shirley McCallum as new board members.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation is offering Major Saver cards through participating elementary schools. Students will receive their sales information packets on January 4th and 5th and sell the $15 discount cards until January 16. Profits from the Major Saver cards directly support the participating schools. Grand Island Public Schools has received over $174,000 in proceeds from these sales since 2016.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is the sixth and final issue of our eighth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 48 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: When Rise columnist Bianca Ayala writes her next piece for the January edition, she’ll have a different tagline. Ayala has been named the newest principal for the Grand Island Public Schools. She takes the corner office at Gates Elementary in January. Read all the details in "At the Top."

Harvest was once again a success. Annual Giving Coordinator Maggie McDermott has all the numbers and more in "Your Legacy. Their Opportunity."

Avery Rogers takes us on stage and backstage for GISH’s fall musical, "Beauty and the Beast," part of her "On the Island" column. The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, looks back on 2023 and the Foundation’s accomplishments in her "Making Your Mark" piece.

If you want to see some angels, don’t miss Mike Monk's "Distant Mirror" column in which he remembers the wonderful film "Angels in the Outfield" and other seraph roles on the big screen. The aforementioned Bianca Ayala talks about the uptick in EL students at Barr, and Sarah Kuta posits that you can find adventure close to home. My column encourages a New Year’s resolution in November. You’ll have to read it for the details.

In Memoriam, Reunion gatherings, a Milestone for writer and alum Ken Aldridge, and the lives and times of Islanders everywhere in Class Notes round out this edition.

Thanks again for subscribing, Islanders. Stay in touch. And remember: Keep pushing on.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is the fifth issue of our eighth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 44 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: We sadly say goodbye to our friend, Lanny Martin, whose generosity and vision have changed Senior High in a dramatic way. Martin died earlier this month. He and his legacy are the subjects of our lead story, “At the Top.”

Harvest, which gives donors and friends of the Grand Island Public Schools a chance to leave their own legacy, arrives later this month and Annual Giving Coordinator, Maggie McDermott, has all the details of what should be another immensely enjoyable, highly successful evening. Make plans to join us.

Avery Rogers talks all things Homecoming in her “On the Island” column. Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, writes about Legendary Educators in her “Making Your Mark” piece.

Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” column touts the pluses and minuses of rural vs. urban living based on his experiences of both. Bianca Ayala introduces us to two women whose educational journeys and qualities have taken them to leadership positions. Sarah Kuta chronicles her experience seeing a Central California coastal phenomenon. My column details the “sensory” memories of the starts of new school years as I saw them, heard them, felt them, tasted them, and, yes, smelled them.

In Memoriam, Reunion gatherings, and the lives and times of Islanders everywhere in Class Notes round out this edition.

Thanks again for subscribing, Islanders. Stay in touch. And remember: Keep pushing on.

Vikki Deuel writes about her mentor, Bea Southard, and how Bea became a Legendary Educator.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

This is the fourth issue of our eighth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 43 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: “At the Top” looks at a busy Grand Island Public Schools calendar even though it’s the middle of summer. Avery Rogers gives us her inaugural “On the Island” column, which is her looking ahead to what promises to be a busy senior year for the newest member of the Rise family. Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, details the plans for the Foundation to lead the work in updating the Hall of Honor wall at GISH in her “Making Your Mark” piece. Annual Giving Coordinator, Maggie McDermott, has everything you need to know to be part of the Second Annual Harvest, the wildly successful gala started last year to widen the circle of opportunities for Grand Island students.

Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” column has a quiz for you. Bianca Ayala takes us to this summer’s Power Camp. Sarah Kuta chronicles the joys of traveling alone. My column this time is a remembrance of what’s important as we remember lost classmates.

We have a Milestone and a letter in the (e)Mailbag as well as In Memoriam, Reunion gatherings, and the lives and times of Islanders everywhere in Class Notes.

Keep in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation held a press conference at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, May 15 at Bill Marshall/Five Points Bank Champions Hall- Memorial Stadium/Jack Martin Field to announce the results from the 20th annual Add it Up to Opportunity! staff and board member fund drive.

The press conference was at the Memorial Stadium/Jack Martin Field to celebrate 20 years of generosity and outstanding giving and support of the GIPS staff.

GIPS staff has 9,990 smiling reasons to give and invest in opportunities for students. The campaign included a $5,000 challenge gift from the Benson Family in honor of their mother, Janet Benson. Janet’s children, Jeff Benson, Cheri Brown, Kim Wagner, Kathi Beebe, Kelli Jeffries, Jim Benson and Julie Wooden, have graciously chosen to honor their mother’s legacy by pledging $5,000 in support of public education to match all new and increased gifts towards the 2023 Add it Up to Opportunity! Staff Campaign.

Benson family members have participated in and supported the staff campaign since its inception in 2004 and wish to encourage the staff and board of Grand Island Public Schools to continue giving to the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation. Members of the Benson family have been attending, working, coaching, or teaching in the district for an incredible 56 consecutive years and counting.

The campaign ran from March 20 to April 30. Staff and board members of Grand Island Public Schools and the GIPS Foundation raised $111,142 for the benefit of school district students. This was the fourth time in a row that the campaign has surpassed $100,000 given! This year had an incredible and record breaking 93% participation.

Proceeds from the campaign are used to expand Foundation programs such as the Academic Aristocrat Scholarship program and the Teacher of the Year program. The funds are also used to support Foundation operations, endowment, and the Classroom Grant program. During the 2022-2023 school year, the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation invested $1,184,062 into programs, scholarships and grants benefiting students.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

We are smack dab in our eighth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 43 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: “At the Top'' details all things May, as in graduation, GIPS staff changes, spring sports wrapping up, prom etc. Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez’s “On the Island” is her farewell column and for us at Rise, it’s a beauty and it’s bittersweet. Jackie has been a part of the Rise family for three years. Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, writes about the hope and optimism brought about by graduation in her “Making Your Mark” piece. Annual Giving Coordinator, Maggie McDermott, has all the results of Go Big Give, the annual community fundraising effort of which the GIPS Foundation is a part.

Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” column this issue takes a deep dive into one the best known phrases from English Literature. Bianca Ayala writes about the naturalization ceremony that recently took place at Barr Middle School. Sarah Kuta embraces her inner scientist as she details her recent trip to Antarctica. Yours truly, once again offers some unsolicited advice to the Class of 2023.

Two former Islanders and one Board of Education member recently received statewide recognition for their civic involvement. Read what they did in Milestones.

As usual, we’ll remember alumni who have passed in the last couple months, let you know which classes are gathering for reunions or just a monthly confab, and keep up on the lives and times of Islanders everywhere in Class Notes.

Keep in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

The 2000’s and the 1980’s had an epic battle play out during Go Big Give day. If you followed our social media on May 4, you witnessed both decades take the lead at different intervals. Now it’s time to reveal the winner of the 2023 Decade Challenge:

2000s……and the 1980s!

Wait, what?

The 2000s took home the crown for highest dollar amount raised, but the 1980s managed to tie it up for the most gifts given alongside the 2000s. Congratulations to both decades Both get street cred this year. Congratulations to both decades. Thank you for some added excitement to Go Big Give.

Go Big Give 2023 was a success thanks to our alumni and supporters who gave $13,337.50 across 42 donors. Of that total, $1,102.50 was given to the Stadium Project and $11,985 was given to our general campaign. $5,588.50 came from alumni spanning six decades. We also took home $250 in matching funds from one of the half hour drawings.

Here is how the day shook out:

1950’s – 1 gift for $52.50
1960’s – 1 gift for $600
1970’s – 3 gifts for $173.50
1980’s – 4 gifts for $1,901.25
1990’s – 1 gifts for $420.00
2000’s – 4 gifts for $2,441.25

Every dollar makes an impact. The Foundation is incredibly thankful to alumni and community for supporting our efforts to help every student thrive. Together, we can do big things.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

Welcome to our eighth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 44 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: “At the Top'' introduces you to our newest columnist, Sarah Kuta and bids a fond farewell to Abbey Kutlas-Prickett. Sarah uses her column, “The Wandering Writer's World” to introduce herself to Rise readers. Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez’s “On the Island” sets the stage for Senior High’s spring musical, “Big Fish.” Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, writes about scholarships and legacy in her “Making Your Mark” piece. Annual Giving Coordinator, Maggie McDermott, has a run down on the Foundation’s Staff Campaign and Go Big Give, both of which she does with some really fascinating numbers.

As usual, we’ll remember alumni who have passed in the last couple months and keep up on the lives and times of Islanders everywhere in Class Notes. An (e)Mailbag correspondent writes in praise of Mike Monk’s writing. Speaking of which, Mike’s “Distant Mirror” column this issue wonders why college students are avoiding the humanities and what they lose in doing so. Bianca Ayala takes us to the world of girls wrestling at Barr Middle School and GISH. Yours truly draws the distinction between legendary GISH English teacher Mr. Elmer Kral and new artificial intelligence software that can write an essay for you.

Keep in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

At their January 18 meeting, the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors elected Zach Butz, President; Audrey Lutz, Vice-President; and Tom Gdowski, Secretary/Treasurer. The board elected Kelly Enck, Paul Hoos, Diana Kellogg and Shane Wissmann as new board members.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 7,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

Welcome to our eighth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 43 of Rise. We are happy you’re a subscriber and hope you continue to read the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

Here’s some of what you will find inside this issue: “At the Top” marks one year since Rise was redesigned and gives you an update on our … well … update. Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez’s “On the Island” reports on how current Senior High Key Club members give back to their community. Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, gazes into 2023’s crystal ball while newly-minted Annual Giving Coordinator but longtime GIPSF staff member, Maggie McDermott, introduces herself to readers.

As usual we’ll remember alumni who have passed recently and keep up on the lives and times of Islanders everywhere in Class Notes. An (e)Mailbag correspondent responds to Mike Monk’s November piece on barbershops. Mike muses this issue on change, specifically that while it’s inevitable, it can be a delight. Bianca Ayala reports on the success of her classroom unit on Latin America and how it has energized her students to learn more about the rest of the world. Yours truly reminisces about sweaty gyms and squeaky sneakers when Senior High alums would challenge the Islander basketball team during scrimmages between Christmas and New Years.

Keep in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

The GIPS Foundation seeks a highly committed and organized professional to join our staff as Office Coordinator. This position requires a self-starter with the capability to foresee the needs of the organization. The Office Coordinator will manage various office tasks to ensure office operations and special events run smoothly. The qualified candidate will have a minimum of an Associate’s degree or five years of experience. The position is 32 hours per week with flexibility in hours. Salary is $14-$16 per hour, benefits available after probationary period. This position has the potential to evolve into an Office Manager role with additional duties and responsibilities.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation is offering Major Saver cards for sale through participating elementary schools. Students will receive the sales information packets on Wednesday, January 4 and sell the $15 discount cards until January 17. Proceeds beyond expenses from the sale of Major Saver cards directly support the participating schools. Grand Island Public Schools have realized over $140,000 in proceeds from these sales since 2016.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 7,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

We’re wrapping up another year of Rise — our 7th — with some newsy and novel articles. Here’s some of what you will find inside: “At the Top” tries to put us in the holiday spirit recalling a couple musical and drama traditions at GISH and detailing a couple new ones. Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez’s “On the Island” has a report on a new holiday play about to hit the stage at Senior High. Executive Director Kari Hooker-Leep looks back and forward with happenings at the Foundation. Annual Giving Coordinator Alicia Lechner reminds us that small ripples make big opportunities.

As usual we’ll remember alumni who have passed recently, see who has reached a Milestone, and keep up on the lives and achievements of Islanders everywhere. All that and the musings of Mike Monk as he takes us back to barber shops; Bianca Ayala tells us why she’s grateful in this season of gratitude; Abbey Kutlas-Prickett writes with her usual eloquence about education’s power of possibility. And yours truly tells you while I’ll be shaving every day in November.

Keep in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation hosted Harvest, their first ever fundraising gala, on Thursday, September 22 at the Liederkranz. Nearly 250 people attended this inaugural event with the intention of investing in student opportunities.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 7,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is published by the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

Here’s what you’ll find inside: Executive Director Kari Hooker-Leep introduces us to the Teacher of the Year winners and reminds us of the daily champions GIPS has in its classrooms. Annual Giving Coordinator Alicia Lechner has the latest details on Harvest, the grand new Foundation fundraising gala scheduled for September 22, 2022. Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez introduces us to the new student representative on the Grand Island Board of Education.

As usual we’ll remember Islanders who have passed recently and see who has reached an Islander Milestone. All that and the musings of Mike Monk, Class of 1967, as he chronicles a summer of reunions; Bianca Ayala, Class of 2005, reports on her summer in Barcelona; and yours truly, Class of 1968, who has a few paragraphs of praise teacher now and then. The Class of 2014’s Abbey Kutlas-Pricket will return with her column in November.

Enjoy. Keep in touch. And remember: Keep pushing on.

Grand Island Public Schools Foundation invites all alumni to participate in the creation of an oral history publication that unites GISH alumni across generations. The project is an opportunity to gather stories and collect memories that bring the Grand Island Senior High experience to life. We are interested in your reflections and tributes, and we hope that this endeavor will preserve Grand Island Senior High’s history for generations to come.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation is pleased to offer the first round of the 2022-2023 annual mini-grant cycle. “The last few years have been challenging! And yet for the GIPS Foundation, the words that come to mind as we think of the GIPS staff are: resilient, amazing, caring, and imaginative! Since our beginning in 1983, your Foundation has been committed to enhancing opportunities for students and staff. It’s that time of year when we encourage you to take your amazing, caring, imaginative resiliency and DREAM BIG! We encourage you to apply for a Classroom Mini-Grant to fund those special projects and activities that are beyond the realm of the school budget. We look forward to seeing how we can help your dreams become your students realities!” said Vikki Deuel, GIPS Foundation Board President.

On Thursday, September 22, 2022, the GIPS Foundation will host its first ever fundraising event called the Harvest at the historic Liederkranz. Over the years, the GIPS Foundation has participated in many fundraisers, but this will be the first event style fundraiser they’ve put together. “At the GIPS Foundation we’re so excited to share our brand new event information with you and invite you to join us as we - Celebrate Your Legacy. Invest in Their Opportunity.” said new Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 7,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is published by the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

Here’s what you’ll find inside: Meet Kari Hooker-Leep who has been named the GIPS Foundation’s new Executive Director. She is just in time for the Harvest; that’s the spectacular new Foundation event scheduled for September 22, 2022. Annual Giving Coordinator Alicia Lechner has all the details. Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez gets up to date on Senior High’s Gear Up program. Finally, our friend Traci Skalberg says good-bye to the Foundation in her last Shaking the World piece.

As usual we’ll remember Islanders who have passed recently, celebrate successes in Class Notes, and see who has reached an Islander Milestone. All that and the musings of Mike Monk, Class of 1967, as he recounts sneaking into the 1967 World Series at Boston’s Fenway Park; Abbey Kutlas-Prickett, Class of 2014, who writes beautifully about the gifts of quiet and reverence; Bianca Ayala, Class of 2005, who details part of her journey towards a Masters Degrees in Educational Leadership; and yours truly, who reminds us all of what the GIPS Foundation really does.

Enjoy. Keep in touch. And remember: Keep pushing on. 

The Office Coordinator/Executive Assistant will coordinate various office tasks to ensure office operations run smoothly. They will also provide support to the Executive Director. The qualified candidate will have a minimum of an Associates degree or five years experience. The position is a 12 month position at 32 hours per week. Salary is $14-$16 per hour, benefits available after probationary period. Applications requested by 4:30 pm on July 8, 2022.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation has chosen Kari Hooker-Leep to succeed Traci Skalberg as its Executive Director. Hooker-Leep will join the GIPS Foundation on June 27.

For the past 17 years Hooker-Leep has been the Regional Director for CHAD — Combined Health Agencies Drive. In addition to her experience leading CHAD, she will bring a strong background in fundraising and community involvement to the GIPS Foundation.

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 7,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is published by the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

Here’s what you’ll find inside: Our big news is that Grand Island Public School Foundation Executive Director, Traci Skalberg will be leaving in August to join Central Community College. More on that in “At the Top.” Traci writes in her “Shaking the World” piece about our dear friend Marv Maurer, the driving force behind the Foundation’s existence. Marv died late last month. Annual Giving Coordinator, Alicia Lechner, has the numbers from Go Big Give, and Jackie Ruiz Rodriguez gets us up to date on the Entrepreneur Pathway at Senior High where students can “cash in” on what they have learned.

As usual we’ll remember Islanders who have passed recently, celebrate successes in Class Notes, see who has reached a milestone, and read the musings of Mike Monk, Class of 1967, Abbey Kutlas-Prickett, Class of 2014, Bianca Ayala, Class of 2005, and yours truly.

Enjoy. Keep in touch. And remember: Keep pushing on.

The Executive Director responsibilities include leadership, management, and implementation of the GIPS Foundation’s strategic plan and fundraising efforts. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree and 5 years of development experience including demonstrated success in annual giving, corporate sponsorship, capital campaigns, planned giving, and management, is preferred. The candidate will maintain an in-depth knowledge of the GIPS Foundation’s strategic funding priorities, establish long-term partnerships and cultivate existing relationships with donors. The position is 12-month position at 32 hours per week. Salary range $65,000 – $80,000 + benefits

Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 7,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is published by the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

Here’s a hint as to what’s inside: 2022 already has some new things happening at Senior High. Our student reporter Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez details two big ones in her “On the Island” dispatch.

As an important funding raising effort, Go Big Give, nears, Annual Giving Coordinator, Alicia Lechner, writes on what you need to know to be part of making your alma mater and community strong.

As usual we’ll remember Islanders who have passed recently, hear from a couple letter writers, catch up on all the news from the Foundation, see who has reached milestones, and read the musings of Mike Monk, Class of 1967, Abbey Kutlas-Prickett, Class of 2014, Bianca Ayala, Class of 2005, and yours truly.

Enjoy. Keep in touch. And remember: Keep pushing on.

At their January 19 meeting, the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors elected Vikki Deuel, President; Zach Butz, Vice-President; and Tom Gdowski, Secretary/Treasurer. Dr. Connie Allen, Kim Jensen, and Pam Price retired from the board. The board elected Tom Bednar and Yvette Engelhaupt as new board members.