Hudson Bruckerhoff, new born son of Dylan Bruckerhoff & Bobbie Huff, passed away on January 31, 2019 at Mercy Hospital, Washington, Missouri.
Along with his parents, Hudson is also survived by his grandparents, Shelly & John Prouhet, of New Haven; Robin Young, of Hermann; Perry Bruckerhoff, of Hermann; and Dan & Bobbi Huff, of Washington, by his great grandparents, Juanita Hamby, of New Haven; Diane Nichols, of Lesterville, Missouri; James & Wanda Menke, of Bland, Missouri; Robert Crowe, of Linn, Missouri; and Edward & Barb Huff, of Montgomery City, Missouri; and by aunts and uncles.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 22nd from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home, New Haven, where a memorial service will follow at 7:00 p.m.,  with Rev. Joe Nogalski officiating. 
Memorials may be given to families choice.  C/O Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home.

The New Haven School District scored a perfect 100% on this year's APR.  This is an increase from last year's score of 96.8%. ​

​The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) announced statewide results for both the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) and district Annual Performance Reports (APR) for the 2017-18 school year. More than 413,000 third- through eighth-grade students and an additional 175,000 high school students participated in the state’s testing program, leading to more than 1.05 million total assessments being administered to Missouri public and charter school students. 

Due to changes in learning standards, completely new assessments in English language arts and math were administered in 2017-18; therefore, it is important to note that the 2017-18 results are not comparable with results from previous tests in those subjects. More than 2,500 Missouri teachers and other stakeholders crafted the Missouri Learning Standards that were adopted in spring 2016. The new standards were developed with a goal of setting higher expectations for students, which was reflected in a more challenging, teacher-developed set of state assessments. 

A field test was given during the 2017-18 school year for science, so schools did not receive official MAP scores, nor was science reflected in calculations for the 2017-18 APR scores. New science assessments will be administered during the 2018-19 school year. 

This year’s APR data reflected a slightly heavier focus on non-academic factors such as high school readiness (K-8 districts), college and career readiness (K-12 districts), attendance, and graduation rates. Schools continued to prepare students for success after graduation, with tangible results: more students both participated in advanced placement courses and scored a 3 or better on AP exams, enrollment increased in dual enrollment and Project Lead the Way courses, and a greater number of students earned industry-recognized credentials. 

More than 97 percent of Missouri districts and charter schools scored at least 70 percent of the possible points on their APR. For public school districts, this places them in the fully accredited range, while charter schools do not receive an accreditation classification under current guidelines. 

​All public school district and charter school MAP and APR data can be found by accessing DESE’s comprehensive data system portal here. First-time users are encouraged to watch a brief tutorial to assist with recent updates to the portal design.

Mary Ann Dorothy Pfautsch, 82, of Berger, MO, passed away Saturday, January 5, 2019 at the Jonesburg Nursing and Rehab Center in Jonesburg, Missouri, with her immediate family by her side.
She was born in New Haven, Missouri on October 30, 1936, to the late Carl & Anna (Jung) Krull.  She was baptized and confirmed into St. Peter's UCC in New Haven, Missouri.
She was united in marriage to Harold Pfautsch on October 14, 1959.
Mary worked at Kellwood for many years.  She was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan and attended several spring training's in Jupiter, Florida with her friends.  She also loved to travel.  Mary spent a lot of time with her many nieces and nephews.
Mary is survived by one brother, Charles "Wendy" Krull & wife Betty, of New Haven, Missouri, and one sister, Helen Matchell, of Lee's Summit, Missouri and nieces & nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her son David, two brothers, Ben & Albert "Midge" Krull, a brother-in-law, Ken Matchell, and a sister-in-law, Mildred Krull.
Visitation will be held Saturday, February 16th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home, New Haven, with a celebration of life to follow at 11:00 a.m., with Billy Brison officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Hermann Express, of Hermann or Jonesburg Nursing & Rehab Center.  C/O Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home.

​The 6th grade girls basketball team finished their season with a 3rd place finish in the St. Clair tournament on Saturday February 2nd. 
Pictured are back row (left to right):
Coach Dan Long, Morgan Guehne, Alayna Lagemann, Katie Holtmeyer, Sophie Long, Coach Amy Hecktor
Front row (left to right):
Lexi Yochim, Payton Hecktor, Shelby Tallent, Rachel Otten, Not Pictured Bailey Fleer

,​The New Haven 5th grade girls basketball team recently wrapped up their season. They won the Consolation game at the Owensville tournament and brought home 3rd place medals in their final tournament in St. Clair.

Pictured: Front row (l-r)
Megan Hoerstkamp, Rihanna Bates, Alex Fortner, Tori Stringer, and Kaedynce Strong.
Back row (l-r) Coach Tim Scheer, Tatum Scheer, Grace Inman, Madison Steelman, Claire Hellmann, Chesni Jones and Coach Molly Munsinger.

By: J. Graham Hill

On December 22, Mr. Trump began a partial government shutdown. According to various news outlets, Mr. Trump did so because of the border security issue that he and Congress cannot agree on.

This shutdown will affect all of the United States of America. Keeping that in mind, I have taken the time to ask teachers what their thoughts on this shutdown are.
​
One of the most debated questions asked was “Why?”

Mr. Tucker simply says, “Ego!” To further explain, he says, “Both Trump and Pelosi have pushed themselves into corners and are unwilling to look politically weak by giving in. In fact, there was a Republican deal that Trump was going to accept prior to Christmas until he saw all the negative press he was getting on Fox News, and then he issued his $5.7 billion ultimatum. The real tragedy is the 800,000 federal employees whose lives are being negatively impacted by their childish battle.”

Mrs. Schlafer thinks, “The government has lost the ability to compromise and work for the good of the country. Each political party is trying to show their strength.”

“From what little I know, I believe that President Trump has refused to sign the bill because it didn't include funding for a border wall,” Ms. McCroskey begins. “He hasn't budged on that, so the bill hasn't passed and the funding to all these agencies has lapsed.”

Another topic that has been brought up on many news outlets is the government personnel going without pay. Some have decided to continue working, with hopes of back pay, while others aren’t working at all. The teachers’ opinions on the matter are mixed.

Ms. McCroskey says, “It doesn't matter who you are-- if you are expected to work and you aren't paid for it, it's wrong.  It makes me bitter just thinking about it. I would 100% never work without pay.”

Mr. Tucker, on the other hand, thinks, “It is unfortunate that they are being caught up in a political battle that could be easily resolved. I know as a teacher I would work without pay so I assume I would as a federal employee if my job was essential.”

“I am concerned that they may not do their best quality of work,” Mrs. Schlafer begins. “Getting paid validates that the person is doing something of importance.  Without that validation, why give your best performance? I don't think the president or Congress should be paid until the shutdown is over.”

When asked how this shutdown has affected them directly, all of those involved in the poll were unaware how it affected them.

However Mr. Tucker says, “As it drags on, there is certainly the potential especially as it affects economic growth. That being said, it could affect the students who may need federal student loans and families that depend on federal assistance in the form of welfare benefits.”

In order to further the discussion, I asked how the shutdown affected the community.

Mr. Tucker responds, “Not to my knowledge, but that is because of my ignorance when it comes to how much this community depends on the departments or offices of the federal government.”

Ms. McCroskey adds, “It depends how many people in this community are depending on agencies like the IRS, NIH, etc.”

To end the shutdown discussion, I asked whether or not the teachers agreed with it. All of the teachers who participated in this poll said that they didn’t agree with this shutdown.

Mrs. Schlafer simply says, “Innocent people are carrying the brunt of the burden.”

“Sometimes my niece gets upset when her brother won't give her a toy,” Ms. McCroskey explains. “She throws a tantrum and cries and jumps around, but in the end, it's a worthless baby argument.  America is above worthless baby arguments. There needs to be a compromise. We need to pay our workers.”

“American politics is based on compromise between the two parties,” Mr. Tucker begins. “Look at our history, and the only way things get accomplished is if both sides are willing to come together and work out a deal. As I mentioned, it is about egos not security. The majority of illegal immigrants are people who stay after their visas expire; few come across the border illegally. Most of the drugs in America come through ports and not across the border. There is no evidence that terrorists are entering across the border either. All this data comes from federal departments like Homeland Security and others. Historically there is no wall that stretches for over a thousand miles that is successful. The only walls that work, like the one in Israel, are relatively short, [and] constantly manned and monitored with state of the art electronic surveillance equipment, which is impossible with ‘Trump's wall.’ The money could be much better spent on using modern technology like satellites.”

On December 22, President Trump initiated a partial government shutdown that will affect all of the United States of America. After talking to the New Haven teachers, it is obvious that they are highly disappointed with the government shutdown and hope that federal employees will not be affected much longer.

The New Haven School District has the following job position open for the 2019/2020 school year:  

High School Science Teacher

​If you would like to apply for this position, visit the New Haven School District website @ www.newhavenschools.org

By: Lydia Otten

Homecoming is just right around the corner, and New Haven High School is getting excited for this year’s Paris-themed Homecoming. This year’s date for Homecoming is Friday, February 1st.

With the Paris theme, StuCo is working on a 20-ft. Eiffel Tower. Other decorations for the dance and coronation are going to be based off Van Gogh's Starry Night. The flower bouquets for the candidates will also be based off the painting.

A recent survey was sent out to the whole student body to get a feel for who plans on attending, what they are looking forward to, expectations and hopes for the dance, and the best part about Homecoming overall.

Out of all of the responses, everybody said they will be attending this year’s Homecoming, and many are looking forward to the dance and game. Natalie Buchheit, sophomore, is looking forward to dancing with her friends. Keerstin Mason, junior, is excited about who will win at the coronation.

Senior Kamryn Poe also commented with, “The basketball game. I can't wait to see the varsity boys defeat their opponent. Lets go, Shamrocks!”

When the students were asked if they had any expectations/hopes for the dance, they all responded with either food or good music.

The best part about Homecoming, according to senior Julia Unnerstall is, “Boogying down with my buddies!”

Brande Kubiak, sophomore, said, “Wearing your six-inch heels the whole time to assert your dominance on the dance floor.”

The senior Homecoming candidates this year are Lexi Oetterer, Andi Wideman, Desiree Strehlau, Martin Lewis, Cody Groner, and Ethan Groner. The junior candidates are Lexy Sidwell, Savanna Hanna, Johnna Bloch, John Hughes, Austin Tegeler, and Bernabe Ribera.

When Lexi Oetterer was asked how she felt about being a candidate, she responded with, “I am very excited about being selected as a Homecoming candidate. I have always wanted to be a candidate for either Homecoming or Winter Ball-- not just to win, but to be a part of the experience.”

Savanna Hanna talked about what she is excited for. “I'm not so sure if there is anything in particular about the coronation itself that I'm excited about, but I'm still really thrilled and excited about being able to walk down the basketball court with one of the guy candidates. It's definitely going to be a fun time.”

Bernabe Ribera also talked about how he is nervous for the coronation. “I don't do so well in front of huge crowds, but this will help me overcome that fear.”

Well, it sounds like New Haven is excited for Homecoming. Have a great time at the dance and good luck at the game!
​

By: Hannah Knoppe

As we ring in the second semester, the last semester of high school is rung in for the class of 2019.

Graduation day is just around the corner and before seniors will get the chance to say their final goodbyes, they were asked to reflect on their high school experience.

Firstly, the seniors were asked to explain what their last semester has been like so far.

Miranda Durbin stated, “I'm snoozing my alarm more and more. Stress has gotten the best of me, and now I'm just waiting on senior trip and my college classes to start. I feel like I am failing all of my classes although the semester just began. I don't think that this is what 'senioritis' feels like, but it could very possibly be.”

Olivia Williams commented, “This last semester is a little bittersweet. I am super excited to graduate and go to college, but at the same time I will miss seeing my friends every day and coming to school. I'm ready to start a new chapter of my life, but I know I will miss high school a lot!”

Then, seniors were asked to share one of their favorite high school memories and were also asked which activity throughout high school was their favorite (ex. swimming intramurals, spirit week, dodgeball, etc.).

Olivia Williams mentioned, “I don't have one favorite memory. There have been many moments that have been memorable for me. One of them is when our class had to redo the senior jump at swimming intramurals. I also enjoyed decorating for prom with my classmates my junior year!”

Julia Unnerstall stated, “Leadership week, because I love to play tug-of-war.”

Miranda Durbin added, “Marching band would have to be one of my favorite activities. I made so many new friends throughout the entire experience, and it pushed me outside my comfort zone. I needed something in my life, and marching band was definitely it.”

Elsie McNabb stated, “I loved swimming intramurals all four years. They are so much fun and it's a really cool experience with my classmates every time. I also loved our first pep rally!”

Alex Trentmann commented, “time spent with my friends.”

As students grow and mature throughout the four years spent in high school, many take away lessons from the various experiences. Thus, the seniors were asked to give a word of advice to the underclassmen from what they’ve learned.

Miranda Durbin commented, “Do not take your time for granted. I spent so much of my high school days concerned about what other people thought of me and I skipped out on doing the sports that I loved. I took my time for granted until my junior year, and by then, it was too late to change anything. When they say, “get involved," stop mocking them and start listening. Get involved or you will never enjoy high school the way that everyone around you will. Take control and start today. There are so many moments where I wished to go back to 8th grade so I could start fresh and go through high school for myself-- not for everyone else.”

Olivia Williams stated, “If I could give any advice to the underclassmen, it would be to not take this time you have for granted. High school flies by. I honestly feel like I was a scared little freshman yesterday. You think four years is a long time until you are in your second semester of senior year. Then you begin to realize that your time in this place is limited and you need to make the most of it.“

Enjoy your last semester and good luck moving forward, class of 2019!

​

St. Louis Region Special Events
Winter in the Woods Festival featuring 
Maple SugarRockwoods Reservation
Feb 2 • Saturday • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
(All Ages)
No reservations required
Just because the temperatures drop, doesn’t mean you have to stay inside! There are many fun activities to do during winter, like maple sugaring, hiking, camping, bird-watching, outdoor photography, and fishing to name a few. MDC and local partnering organizations will help uncover the many different outdoor activities you can do in winter, along with information about how animals weather the season. It’s a day your whole family will enjoy! All activities are free and no reservations are required. Handicapped parking only will be available on-site. All other parking will be off-site at Pond Elementary (17200 Manchester Rd) and the St. Louis Community College Wildwood campus (2645 Generations Dr.). Shuttle buses to the event will be provided, and food trucks will be available on-site. This is a rain or shine event, please dress for the weather.
2018 Amateur Powder Valley Conservation Nature Photo ContestThe Amateur Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center Photo Contest was a success, with 36 people submitting over 100 photos. Photos were submitted from Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, Emmenegger Nature Park/Possum Woods Conservation Area, or Claire Gempp Davidson Memorial Wildlife Area. Contest winners will have their photos displayed at Powder Valley in a hallway exhibit throughout the month of February. The winners will receive a ribbon as well as take their beautiful photo home. Please mark your calendars to enter the 2019 Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center Photo Contest. We love to see Missourians enjoying outdoors! Please check this link for more information and an entry form: https://bit.ly/2LZJa1R

Site News and EventsPowder Valley Conservation Nature Center11715 Cragwold Road
Kirkwood, MO 63122
314-301-1500
Introduction to Caves and Caving
Feb 9 • Saturday • 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
(Ages 10 and up)
Reservations begin January 15
Come and join us as we discuss the caves and cave life of Missouri. We will meet first at Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center to briefly go over caves and safety and then we will caravan to Cliff Cave County Park in South County for the field trip portion. Please dress in layers and dress warm. Helmets and one flashlight will be provided. Please wear rubber boots as well as bring 2 additional sources of light (such as headlamps or flashlights). Field trip portion will be canceled in heavy rain. If large clusters of bats are encountered, the field trip portion will be cut short. *Register each person individually. No one under 10 allowed during the field trip portion due to safety and proper equipment available.
SEE FULL PROGRAM LISTING
​

Homecoming coronation will be held on Friday, February 1 between the JV and Varsity Basketball games. 

​On January 21, 2019 at approximately 9:30 p.m. the Franklin County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to 200 block of Arborview Dr in Villa Ridge for a report of a man assaulted with a knife. When deputies arrived, they located the male victim sitting in the roadway, bleeding heavily from his head and hand with deep lacerations. The victim claimed he was assaulted with a knife after a verbal argument with an acquaintance. The victim was transported to the Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur by ambulance.
 
Deputies learned the suspect left the area to pick up his girlfriend in Union. Union PD was notified as requested to stop and hold the suspect. Officers located the suspect and his vehicle at Pizza Hut in Union and deputies responded to further investigate. Inside the vehicle, the suspected weapon used in the assault was located by deputies. The suspect was taken into custody for the assault investigation and transported to the Franklin County Adult Detention Facility.
 
A warrant for Assault 1st degree and Armed Criminal Action was issued on the suspect, identified as Donald Gene Track Jr., age 31 from Villa Ridge. Bond was set at $50,000.
 
All people are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
 
 
Steve Pelton
Franklin County Sheriff

East Central College Theatre is proud to present the local premiere of James and the Giant Peach by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Directed by Grace Austin with music direction by Colin Healy, the beloved children’s book by Roland Dahl comes to life on the ECC stage February 14-17.
 
Starring more than 45 local and St. Louis area actors, the show also includes choreography by Chris Page-Sanders, set design by Chris Swanson, lighting design by Oliver Kassenbrock, costume design by Marci Franklin and sound design by Sam Kresse.
 
“The same team that wrote the music for The Greatest Showman wrote the music for James and the Giant Peach,” said Austin. “We are so excited to bring a show the entire family can enjoy to our stage. The book is such a multigenerational classic and the musical version is incredible.”
 
Tickets can be purchased at ecctheatre.com or by visiting the East Central College Box Office. For more information including running time, visit ecctheatre.com
​

​Coach Brian Lueckenhoff 
Logan Burkett
Reid Lueckenhoff 
Ryan Westermeyer
Dylan See
Dane Oelrichs
Michael McFerrin
Coach Michael See