beLEADERS | IH Entrepreneurs' Center

beLeaders | October 2, 2025

Leading Moments - Indian Hill Primary School

Personalizing Instruction for ALL Braves!

Mrs. Kleespies has been doing incredible work with her students in the Primary School, creating an engaging and supportive environment where young learners are thriving. She has been guiding them through activities focused on pattern recognition, number recognition, and foundational reading skills—helping students build the essential tools that set the stage for future learning success. With her patient, creative approach, she tailors instruction to meet each child’s needs, celebrating small victories and encouraging confidence along the way. Her dedication ensures that students not only strengthen academic skills but also develop a love of learning in a nurturing setting.

Getting a chance to watch Max and Henry work with one another, lead one another, and help one another in these tactile mathematical

activities was pure joy!

Invigorating a Love for Reading & Exploration

Mr. Knuppel, one of our extraordinary IHPS 2nd grade teachers, recently facilitated a dynamic student-led discussion and investigation on the differences between fiction, non-fiction, and textual information. Each student selected one aspect of literature that fit into one of these categories, shared their choice with the class, and explained their reasoning—sparking thoughtful dialogue and deeper understanding. Building on this, students returned to their table groups to sort some of their favorite books into the three categories, applying their knowledge in a meaningful way.

To cap off the lesson, student leaders proudly shared data they had recently collected for their grade-wide space project (and exploring which planet is the favorite planet of the entire school), showcasing not only their learning but also their growing confidence as researchers and presenters. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from their journey!

Dreaming Big & Reach for the Stars!

At IHPS, we are proud to showcase a remarkable series of original Apollo 11 photographs, generously donated to inspire our students to dream big and reach for the stars. These powerful images—ranging from astronauts walking on the moon to breathtaking views of Earth from space—serve as daily reminders of human ingenuity, perseverance, and imagination.

Displayed prominently in our school, they spark curiosity, celebrate exploration, and encourage students to see themselves as future leaders, innovators, and explorers. Just as Armstrong (an Indian Hill resident), Aldrin, and Collins pushed beyond the limits of possibility, our Braves are reminded to aim high, embrace challenges, and boldly pursue their own extraordinary goals.

Imagination & Leadership Come Alive!

Innovation Instructional Coach, Ms. Elizabeth Ruebusch, recently led an engaging book reading for our 1st grade students centered on the story of a young student discovering her voice. As part of the lesson, students were encouraged to visualize a key moment from the story, then bring their imaginations to life through illustrations they proudly shared

with their classmates.

Partnering with 1st Grade Teacher Ms. Emily Wellage, Ms. Ruebusch guided students in connecting the main themes of the book to the important Habit of “Being Proactive.” The discussion came to life when James enthusiastically shared his own definition of being proactive, explaining that to him it means “taking care of yourself.” It was a joyful and empowering moment that reflected how stories can help students build both creativity and character.

Connect with us!

Jeff Damadeo, Director of K-12 Leadership & Career Development

Jeff.Damadeo@ihsd.us

Twitter: @indianhillEC

My #IHPromise - to work tirelessly for our students, providing them with the most exceptional educational opportunities & experiences to help ensure that they develop into outstanding academic students and future ready individuals!