Community Feedback: Regarding Hydrogen Sulfide Odors Impacting Daily Life

The Middle Fork Crow River Watershed District is partnering with the City of New London to gather community feedback on hydrogen sulfide odors (“rotten egg” smell) affecting New London and Burbank Townships. This anonymous survey will help assess how the issue impacts daily life, businesses, tourism, and overall community well-being, and will guide future mitigation efforts. The survey is open from January 22 at 8:00 a.m. through February 15 at 11:59 p.m. Community members and business owners are encouraged to participate and help share the survey with others.

Take the survey here: https://forms.gle/UtxJChPXnkq7MfGo7

High School

Seniors received important information regarding scholarship timelines and application processes during Flex on Thursday, January 29. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our community members and local businesses who continue to invest in our students by supporting these scholarship opportunities. Their commitment makes a meaningful difference as our seniors plan for their next steps after high school.

On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, all seniors will participate in mock job interviews designed to build confidence and strengthen real-world readiness. Each senior will engage in a one-on-one interview with a community member, gaining valuable experience in professional communication, interviewing skills, and self-advocacy. We are grateful to the SCOPE Committee for their leadership and coordination of this experience, as well as to our community partners who give their time and expertise. Opportunities like this help students connect classroom learning to life beyond high school and prepare them for future success.

Congratulations to the NLS Blackcats dance team on a successful home competition. The girls had three great performances and each team earned a top three finish: JV Jazz - 3rd, Varsity Jazz - 3rd, Varsity Kick - 2nd!

Our One Act Play cast and crew put on a great performance at the sub section competition at ACGC High School and finished in 2nd place. They advanced to the section competition on January 31, 2026, at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. 

It’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks at the middle school! Despite weather-related schedule changes, our 7th and 8th grade students were able to view the One Act Play Boxes, and we’re grateful for the flexibility that made that experience possible. We’re hopeful the weather cooperates so we can stay on track—and maybe even warm up a bit.

With the weather came our first eLearning day. As we continue to learn and improve that process, I welcome any feedback you may have—please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Middle School Office.

In classrooms, there’s lots of great learning happening. Our 5th graders have kicked off Book Clubs, supported by volunteers who are helping make those small-group discussions meaningful and engaging. Meanwhile, Math Counts, Math Masters, Speech, and Knowledge Bowl teams are all busy preparing for upcoming competitions. It’s exciting to see students so involved and committed!

Congratulations to our most recent R.O.A.R Award Recipients; 
Grace, Ella, Weston and Cora!

Prairie Woods

Prairie Woods is going to participate in Global Play Day on Wednesday, February 4.  Classrooms will set aside 1 hour during the day to allow students to play.  Play might consist of board games, outside activities, etc.  Our goal is to have students interact with peers, so we will not use any computer games.  Teachers may reach out to let you know what students are able to bring and the plan for the play day.

NO SCHOOL:  Just a reminder there is no school on Feb. 13 for Teacher Workshop, Feb. 16 for President’s Day, and Feb. 17 for Staff Development.

Prairie Woods Elementary and Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) plan to “kick-off” our annual Club Choice fundraiser Thursday, January 29. This fundraiser will go from January 29 to February 9. More information will be sent home on January 29. Also, March 4 will be the pick-up date for items sold.  

Please encourage your child(ren) to dress for the weather. We will stay inside only when the regular temperature is below 0° or windchill (feels like) temperature is below -5°. 

2025–26 CatPAC Series – Tickets On Sale Now!

Another incredible season is underway at the NLS Performing Arts Center! This year’s CatPAC Series has a dynamic lineup of performances that span Broadway hits, rock ‘n’ roll classics, holiday magic, and interactive crowd favorites. Below are our fourth and final shows of the season!

🎶Saturday, March 7, 2026 – Duelly Noted

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, energy, and fun! Duelly Noted brings both sass and class to the stage with a dynamic performance featuring your favorite hits from the ’60s to today. Known for their engaging style and interactive shows, this talented duo keeps audiences singing, dancing, and laughing all night long. From crowd requests to sing-alongs, Duelly Noted delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that will have everyone on their feet!

🎶Saturday, April 7, 2026 - A John Denver Tribute presented by Ted Vigil

Celebrate the timeless music of John Denver with an unforgettable tribute performance by Ted Vigil!

Experience beloved classics like “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Rocky Mountain High,” “Annie’s Song,” “Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” and many more, brought to life with heart and authenticity.

Ted Vigil, an accomplished singer, songwriter, and tribute artist, has been performing since the age of ten, honing his craft in concert, symphonic, and jazz bands. His moving performance captures the spirit, warmth, and sound of the legendary John Denver in a night fans won’t forget.

🕖 All shows begin at 7:00 PM

📍 NLS Performing Arts Center

💛 Sponsored By: Dooley’s, Jennie-O, Rambow, and Willow Creek Counseling

🎟️ Tickets Available Now! www.nls.k12.mn.us/ticketsales