This week, Ms. Greenwood’s first grade class had a sweet science moment! We explored solids, liquids, and gases using our favorite treat, a root beer float! Students loved discovering how ice cream is a solid, root beer is a liquid, and the fizzy bubbles are a gas. Learning is always more exciting when it’s hands-on and connected to real life!
Loup City Elementary School
“Finding the Groove”
Principal’s Message to Parents & Guardians
February 5th, 2026
Dear LCES Families,
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we continue our journey of Finding the Groove together this school year, we are excited to share plans for celebrating Valentine’s Day in a way that keeps our students connected, joyful, and moving forward in line with our district’s motto of Empowering Continual Success.
Valentine’s Day Activities – Thursday, February 12
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday this year—and with many of our elementary teachers participating in professional development on Friday the 13th—Loup City Elementary School will be hosting Valentine’s Day–related classroom activities on Thursday, February 12. This adjustment allows us to keep our rhythm strong and ensure that students can enjoy meaningful, fun experiences without missing a beat in their learning or routines.
Classroom teachers will be reaching out to families via Remind or email with specific details about their individual plans for the day. These communications will help everyone stay in sync and ensure each class can find its own groove while celebrating.
We warmly invite families to join us on this special day by visiting the school to deliver valentines, share treats, and spend time connecting with our students. These moments of togetherness strengthen the partnership between home, school, and community—and they play an important role in empowering continual success for every child.
Thank you for your ongoing support, flexibility, and commitment to making Loup City Elementary a place where learning, celebration, and community come together seamlessly.
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
“Finding the Groove”
Principal’s Message to Parents & Guardians
February 5th, 2026
Dear LCES Families,
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we continue our journey of Finding the Groove together this school year, we are excited to share plans for celebrating Valentine’s Day in a way that keeps our students connected, joyful, and moving forward in line with our district’s motto of Empowering Continual Success.
Valentine’s Day Activities – Thursday, February 12
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday this year—and with many of our elementary teachers participating in professional development on Friday the 13th—Loup City Elementary School will be hosting Valentine’s Day–related classroom activities on Thursday, February 12. This adjustment allows us to keep our rhythm strong and ensure that students can enjoy meaningful, fun experiences without missing a beat in their learning or routines.
Classroom teachers will be reaching out to families via Remind or email with specific details about their individual plans for the day. These communications will help everyone stay in sync and ensure each class can find its own groove while celebrating.
We warmly invite families to join us on this special day by visiting the school to deliver valentines, share treats, and spend time connecting with our students. These moments of togetherness strengthen the partnership between home, school, and community—and they play an important role in empowering continual success for every child.
Thank you for your ongoing support, flexibility, and commitment to making Loup City Elementary a place where learning, celebration, and community come together seamlessly.
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
Loup City Elementary School
“Finding the Groove”
Principal’s Message to Parents & Guardians
January 30th, 2026
Dear LCES Families,
At our school, we believe that strong literacy skills help students find their groove—not just in reading and writing, but in learning, confidence, and self-expression. Literacy is the foundation that empowers continual success, and its impact reaches far beyond the classroom walls.
Families play a vital role in helping children develop a natural rhythm with reading and language. Simple, consistent practices at home can make a powerful difference. Reading together daily, talking about stories, and encouraging children to share their thoughts help literacy become a meaningful and enjoyable part of everyday life. When children see reading as something that fits naturally into their routine, they begin to move with confidence and purpose in their learning.
You can support literacy at home by:
- Setting aside time each day to read together and discuss books.
- Encouraging your child to read a variety of materials, including stories, magazines, and informational texts.
- Asking open-ended questions that allow your child to think, reflect, and express ideas.
- Modeling a love of reading by letting your child see you read at home
When families and schools move in the same rhythm, students are better equipped to stay in step with their learning goals.
Together, by finding the groove with literacy, we empower our children with the skills they need for continual success—today and in the years ahead.
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
“Finding the Groove”
Principal’s Message to Parents & Guardians
January 30th, 2026
Dear LCES Families,
At our school, we believe that strong literacy skills help students find their groove—not just in reading and writing, but in learning, confidence, and self-expression. Literacy is the foundation that empowers continual success, and its impact reaches far beyond the classroom walls.
Families play a vital role in helping children develop a natural rhythm with reading and language. Simple, consistent practices at home can make a powerful difference. Reading together daily, talking about stories, and encouraging children to share their thoughts help literacy become a meaningful and enjoyable part of everyday life. When children see reading as something that fits naturally into their routine, they begin to move with confidence and purpose in their learning.
You can support literacy at home by:
- Setting aside time each day to read together and discuss books.
- Encouraging your child to read a variety of materials, including stories, magazines, and informational texts.
- Asking open-ended questions that allow your child to think, reflect, and express ideas.
- Modeling a love of reading by letting your child see you read at home
When families and schools move in the same rhythm, students are better equipped to stay in step with their learning goals.
Together, by finding the groove with literacy, we empower our children with the skills they need for continual success—today and in the years ahead.
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
Tomorrow is the 100th Day of School at Loup City Public Schools. There will be plenty of fun, interactive activities tomorrow during the day to celebrate this school calendar milestone and recognize that our students have all gotten 100 days stronger, smarter, and kinder.
See the attachment for tomorrow's dress up theme. Dress like your 100 years old OR dress like its 100 degrees.
See the attachment for tomorrow's dress up theme. Dress like your 100 years old OR dress like its 100 degrees.
Loup City Elementary School
“Finding the Groove”
Principal’s Message to Parents & Guardians
January 23rd, 2026
Dear LCES Families,
At our school, we believe that when families and educators move in rhythm, students thrive. This year’s theme, “Finding the Groove,” reminds us that success comes from learning together, staying in sync, and supporting one another—always with our district’s motto, “Empowering Continual Success,” guiding the beat.
Family Learning Opportunity: Supporting BIST at Home:
On this week's notice, you’ll find information about an exciting opportunity for parents and guardians to participate in coursework focused on the principles and practices of the Behavior Intervention Support Team (BIST) framework. These sessions are designed to help families better understand the strategies used at school and how those same approaches can be applied at home to support consistency, accountability, and positive student growth.
By learning these practices, families can strengthen the groove between school and home—creating a shared language and approach that empowers students to build responsibility, problem-solving skills, and long-term success. When we move together with purpose, we truly empower continual success for every child.
Our school team is happy to meet with any parents or guardians who have questions, would like more information, or need assistance with enrollment. We value your partnership and look forward to working together to keep our community learning, growing, and finding its groove all year long.
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
These are your December Principal Pencil recipients. Mrs. Styren's class won the coveted Jumbo Principal Pencil, with 6 principals pencils earned, and will hold it in their classroom until next month's Red Raider Recognition on February 5th. By the way, this RRR will be the first one open to the public, we welcome all parents to join us in the South Gym to celebrate Loup City Elementary student success!
These 51 Red Raiders were recognized for Perfect Attendance during the month of December at our Red Raider Recognition Assembly. Way to go! They earned Ice Cream with the Principal in celebration of this feat.
Loup City Elementary School
“Finding the Groove”
Principal’s Message to Parents & Guardians
January 9th, 2026
Dear LCES Families,
Welcome back! It has been wonderful to see our students return and jump right back into learning as we continue our school year. The energy in the building has been upbeat, and students truly seem stoked to be back at school. As we continue Finding the Groove of our routines, relationships, and learning, we remain committed to our district motto of Empowering Continual Success—helping every student grow, thrive, and shine each day.
Next week, students in 3rd through 5th grade will participate in MAP testing. All students will be assessed in math and reading. MAP testing helps us better understand where each student is in their learning journey and how we can best support their growth. By staying in their learning groove and giving their best effort, students are taking an important step toward Empowering Continual Success. We appreciate your support in ensuring students get plenty of rest and arrive ready to learn.
Red Raider Recognitions have been happening since the beginning of the school year, and we are proud of the positive momentum our students have built. During these celebrations, we recognize students who have earned Principal Pencils and those who have achieved perfect attendance each month. These recognitions highlight students who are truly Finding the Groove through responsibility, effort, and commitment to school.
Beginning in February, we are excited to invite parents and guardians to join us as we celebrate these successes together. Our next Red Raider Recognition will be held on Thursday, February 5th at 2:45 p.m. in the South Gym. We look forward to partnering with families as we continue Empowering Continual Success for our students.
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
“Finding the Groove”
Principal’s Message to Parents & Guardians
January 9th, 2026
Dear LCES Families,
Welcome back! It has been wonderful to see our students return and jump right back into learning as we continue our school year. The energy in the building has been upbeat, and students truly seem stoked to be back at school. As we continue Finding the Groove of our routines, relationships, and learning, we remain committed to our district motto of Empowering Continual Success—helping every student grow, thrive, and shine each day.
Next week, students in 3rd through 5th grade will participate in MAP testing. All students will be assessed in math and reading. MAP testing helps us better understand where each student is in their learning journey and how we can best support their growth. By staying in their learning groove and giving their best effort, students are taking an important step toward Empowering Continual Success. We appreciate your support in ensuring students get plenty of rest and arrive ready to learn.
Red Raider Recognitions have been happening since the beginning of the school year, and we are proud of the positive momentum our students have built. During these celebrations, we recognize students who have earned Principal Pencils and those who have achieved perfect attendance each month. These recognitions highlight students who are truly Finding the Groove through responsibility, effort, and commitment to school.
Beginning in February, we are excited to invite parents and guardians to join us as we celebrate these successes together. Our next Red Raider Recognition will be held on Thursday, February 5th at 2:45 p.m. in the South Gym. We look forward to partnering with families as we continue Empowering Continual Success for our students.
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
These Red Raiders earned Principal Pencils during the month of November for displaying noticeable excellence in behavior, academics, and/or conduct; and got to take a picture with the Jumbo Principal Pencil today at our Red Raider Recognition Assembly. Ms. Greenwood's 1st Grade Class led the elementary school with 7 Principal Pencil recipients and we'll get to keep Jumbo Pencil in their classroom for the month. Way to go Red Raiders!
43 Red Raiders were recognized at Friday's Red Raider Recognition assembly for Perfect Attendance during the month of November! Way to go!
These 41 Red Raiders were recognized at Friday's Red Raider Recognition assembly for Perfect Attendance during the month of October! Way to go!
Last week, Loup City Primary and Elementary School students enjoyed two field trips! On Tuesday October 9th, all PreK-5th grade students visiting the local volunteer fire hall to learn about this important community resource and teach us about fire safety in our homes. On Thursday October 11, students visited the local area pumpkin patches of Scarecrow and Helgoth's. Thank you to all parents and volunteers that helped make these memorable experiences for our students.
Reminder to parents that we will not be in session on September 1st, in observation of Labor Day.
Loup City Public Schools community weight room new policy took effect on June 30, 2024. Last year everyone's $25 deposit was rolled over to the first year of an annual fee. Starting July 1, 2025, the $25 annual fee will be due again. If you would like to continue your access to the LCPS weight room, please submit the renewal process by scanning the QR code and complete your $25 payment on-line at https://payments.efundsforschools.com/v3/districts/56859/
If you are unable to do this electronically, you are welcome to come to the high school office to complete the paperwork and payment transaction. Thank you!
We have a very busy May planned, so please be on the lookout for communication from your student's teachers about important events and information.
Have a great end to the year!
Here is the monthly principal update for April.
Please see the principal newsletter for March.
The Loup City Board of Education will hold a special session to interview interim superintendent candidates.
Please use these links to sign up for Parent-Teacher Conferences (if you haven't already)
Please see the principal newsletter for February.
