Loup City Elementary School
“Finding the Groove”
Principal’s Message to Parents & Guardians
December 5th, 2025
Dear Parents and Guardians,
LCES students are currently in the middle of their benchmark assessments, including the DIBELS reading assessment. This important check-in helps us gauge how each child is progressing and allows us to fine-tune instruction so they can continue empowering their own continual success.
To help students “find their groove” during this mid-year stretch, we are adding some fun schoolwide incentives. Students who show growth will have the chance to participate in dodgeball games against the staff—and may even get to watch their principal complete a few funny challenges after Christmas Break.
Please take a few moments at home to talk with your child about these assessments and the importance of doing their best. Your encouragement helps them connect these fun incentives to the deeper satisfaction of academic growth and success.
As we move into the holiday season, several donation and fundraising projects are taking place throughout LCPS, including food drives, cookie dough sales, and booster club packages. These efforts give our students meaningful ways to build empathy, teamwork, and a sense of community—important parts of helping them “find their groove” as responsible citizens.
If you would like more details about any of these projects, please contact Ms. Becky in the main office. You can also continue to watch for notices arriving home with your child. Thank you for helping us create a community that truly empowers continual success for all.
On December 17th, our elementary students will enjoy a field trip to Kearney for our annual LCES Movie Day, generously sponsored by our PTO at no cost to families. This event is a wonderful way for students to relax, celebrate their hard work, and enjoy a shared experience as they continue “finding their groove” together.
We ask that you please discourage children from bringing cash to the movie theater. It is not appropriate for them to spend large amounts of money on snacks during a school trip. Students will receive a “Movie Watch Package” that will be more than sufficient for the outing. Upon returning to school—around 12:00 p.m.—they will be provided with a sack lunch.
Thank you for your continued involvement and support. Together, we are making Loup City Elementary a place where students thrive, grow, and succeed every day! If you ever need to contact me, don’t hesitate to do so at paul.barker@lcpublic.org or through the main office at 308-745-0603
Warm regards,
Mr. Paul Barker, M.Ed
Principal, Loup City Elementary School
“Finding the Groove” – One Step at a Time