The Martensdale-St. Marys (MSTM) Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is a non-profit, volunteer organization whose membership includes all families and staff at MSTM Elementary School. The PTO’s mission is to support and enhance the educational experiences of our students.

**The PTO**

• Provides an organization through which the parents, school, and teachers can work cooperatively.

• Provides financial support for programs funded outside of the annual school budget.

• Develops a closer connection between school and home by encouraging parent involvement.

***

**Contact us:**[ **MSTM PTO**](http://mstmpto@gmail.com) **(mstmpto@gmail.com)****Connect with us on Facebook here:**[ **MSTM Facebook Page**](https://www.facebook.com/groups/494267987323486/)**Want PTO Updates ? Register here:**[ **PTO Updates**](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSczzjlUFu338zGkB3gWlszrEpRx1G1nW0a8UxGHcVoXyawGXg/viewform?usp=sharing)**Donate to the MSTM PTO Here: MSTM PTO Donations**


MSTM PTO

Each year on **Administrative Professionals Day**, we take a moment to recognize and celebrate the individuals who play an essential role in the daily operations of Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District. While their work often happens behind the scenes, the impact of our administrative staff is felt throughout every hallway, classroom, and office.

From answering phone calls and managing schedules to supporting staff, students, and families with patience and professionalism — our administrative professionals are truly the backbone of our district. Their attention to detail, welcoming presence, and dedication help create the smooth, supportive environment that allows our school to thrive.

Please join us in celebrating our Administrative Professionals:

* Ashley Blaisdell - Elementary Administrative Assistant
* Jessica Hart - Accounts Payable Clerk / Central Office Receptionist
* Christy Henderson - Junior High / High School Administrative Assistant



Let’s all take a moment to thank the administrative professionals at MSTM who help keep our district running with care and commitment each and every day.

From all of us at Martensdale-St. Marys — **thank you** for all that you do!

Martensdale-St Marys Community School District

April 23 - Administrative Professionals Day

Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District proudly recognizes Kelin Gonzalez and Abigail (Abby) Hughes for earning the prestigious Iowa Seal of Biliteracy. This honor celebrates their dedication to language learning and cross-cultural communication.

The Iowa Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to students who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one other language by high school graduation. It reflects a student's ability to communicate in two or more languages at a high level of fluency—an invaluable skill in today's global society.

*Meet the Honorees*

**Kelin Gonzalez -** earned the Iowa Seal of Biliteracy by demonstrating fluency in Spanish, a skill she sharpened with the help of her Spanish class, particularly in writing. Kelin will attend Iowa State University to major in Business Management with a minor in Interior Design.

**Abby Hughes -** achieved the Seal through dedication and immersive learning—studying, reading, listening to Spanish music, and practicing outside of school in various settings. Abby plans to study Finance at Briar Cliff University, minor in Spanish, and play softball.

*Opening Doors for the Future*

By earning this recognition, both students now carry an important credential into their post-secondary lives—one that can provide a competitive edge in college admissions, scholarships, and future employment. The Seal is also a testament to their perseverance, cultural awareness, and commitment to lifelong learning.

Martensdale-St. Marys celebrates Kelin and Abby's achievements and applauds their efforts to become global citizens through language. Their success sets a powerful example for future students and highlights the value of bilingualism in a diverse world.

For more information about the Iowa Seal of Biliteracy, visit the [Iowa Department of Education's website](https://educate.iowa.gov/pk-12/standards/instruction/biliteracy-seal).

Seniors Kelin Gonzalez and Abigail Hughes Earn Iowa Seal of Biliteracy

In support of our students during ISASP testing, the district is pleased to announce that **free breakfast will be provided to all students** during **ISASP Week**, from **Monday, April 22 through Thursday, April 25**.

To help students start each day with the energy and focus they need, breakfasts will be available in a **convenient grab-and-go format** before the school day begins.

### What You Need to Know:

* **Who:** All students
* **When:** April 22–25, 2025 (ISASP Testing Week)
* **Where:** Breakfast pick-up locations will be available at each school
* **What:** A full breakfast is required and will include:
  * **A fruit**
  * **Milk**
  * **Grab-and-go item of your choice**
* **Extras:** Additional breakfast items will be available for purchase and charged to the student’s personal lunch account.

We encourage all students to take advantage of this opportunity to start their day with a nutritious meal. A well-fed brain is a ready brain—good luck to all of our students on their ISASP assessments!

For any questions, please contact your school’s front office or nutrition services department.

Free Breakfast for All Students During ISASP Week (April 22–25)

The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District (MSTM) is proud to announce a new partnership with Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG), a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students succeed in school, work, and life.

Starting in the Fall of 2025, MSTM students will have access to expanded career readiness programs, leadership development opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences. iJAG’s proven model focuses on helping young people overcome academic and personal challenges to graduate and prepare for high-demand careers.

“Switching to the iJAG program for the upcoming school year is a strategic step forward for our students and our community.” said Jon Fitzpatrick, JH/HS Principal for Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District. “iJAG is more than just a class, it’s a proven model that helps students overcome barriers, connect their education to future careers, and build essential life and employability skills.”

iJAG specialists will work directly with students during the school day, delivering a curriculum focused on career exploration, employability skills, leadership development, and community engagement. Students will also be able to connect with local businesses, participate in internships, and develop critical life skills that will serve them long after high school.

Fitzpatrick also stated, “With a focus on leadership, goal-setting, and career readiness, iJAG empowers students to take charge of their future.”

The partnership reflects MSTM’s ongoing commitment to preparing students for graduation and life beyond school — in college, career, and citizenship.

For more information about iJAG, visit http://www.ijag.org/.

MSTM Announces Partnership with iJAG

The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District is proud to recognize a remarkable contribution from the Martensdale-St. Marys Partners in Education. At the April 14th School Board meeting, Partners in Education presented the district with a generous check for **$55,000**. These funds will directly support the school's Media Center renovation, a project slated for completion this summer.



This donation marks a significant milestone for both organizations and the community. The funds were raised during the group's first-ever major fundraising event, *Night Out in Nashville*, held in March. The evening was an incredible success, bringing together parents, staff, alumni, and local supporters for a night of music, food, and fundraising — all supporting and enhancing educational opportunities for students.



The renovation of the Media Center is a key step in transforming the space into a modern, student-centered learning hub. Once completed, the updated Media Center will offer flexible seating, collaborative workspaces, updated technology, and a more inviting atmosphere for students of all grade levels to learn, explore, and grow.



The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District extends its deepest thanks to PIE and all those who helped make this event successful. Your continued support strengthens our school community and helps ensure our students can access the tools and spaces needed to thrive.



Together, we're making a difference — one project, partnership, and student at a time.

Martensdale-St. Marys Partners in Education Donates $55,000 Toward Media Center Renovation

At Martensdale-St. Marys, we believe in celebrating the hard work and contributions of our teachers and staff. That’s why we’re proud to introduce the **Blue Devil High Five Program**—a recognition initiative aimed at acknowledging the dedication and excellence of our team.

The Blue Devil High Five Program allows students, staff, administration, and community members to nominate and recognize staff members who go above and beyond in their roles. Whether through exceptional teaching, support for students, or creating a positive school environment, the program celebrates those who make a significant impact.&#x20;

In order to spread this Blue Devil pride, [click here to fill out the link.](https://forms.gle/cDnK6XDYdw2ai4d2A)

Help us spread smiles one Blue Devil at a time!

Blue Devil High-Five

Our 4th–12th grade ELP students had an unforgettable experience during their field trip to Texas Roadhouse! As the restaurant’s very first field trip guests, students got a behind-the-scenes look at restaurant operations, explored interactive learning stations, and even made their own rolls. Afterward, everyone enjoyed a delicious hot dog or hamburger lunch — and took home prizes and fresh rolls (though few rolls made it all the way home!).

The day was also a special opportunity for our high school ELP mentors to connect with their elementary mentees. These mentorships, launched about a month ago, continue to grow through regular check-ins and support.

We are incredibly grateful to Texas Roadhouse for hosting such a memorable day for our students!

**Save the Date:**
&#x20;Join us for our ELP Symposium on **Thursday, May 8**, from **8–9:30 AM** in the high school media center. Families are welcome to come and go — we hope to see you there!

ELP Students Enjoy Behind-the-Scenes Fun at Texas Roadhouse

This February, Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District proudly launched a new initiative through our MSTM Wellness Program, encouraging students to stay active and healthy while having fun!

As part of the program, elementary, junior high, and high school students participated in a "Walk to Spring Break" challenge. Students tracked their steps to "walk" toward exciting virtual destinations. Our elementary students set their sights on Disney World in Florida, while junior high and high school students aimed for the sunny beaches of Cancun, Mexico.

To support our students in tracking their progress, the MSTM Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) generously donated pedometers. This contribution helped our students stay motivated and aware of their daily movement goals. The entire school came together in a spirit of energy, teamwork, and healthy competition.

To celebrate the students' dedication and hard work, Country View Dairy donated frozen yogurt. Every student was treated to a delicious Fro-Yo snack as a reward for completing their wellness journey.

MSTM would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the PTO for their generous support and to Country View Dairy for helping make the celebration extra special. Programs like these highlight the strong partnerships between our school, families, and local businesses — and the amazing things we can accomplish when we work together.

Way to go, MSTM students! Keep moving and making healthy choices!

MSTM Spotlight: Student Wellness Program

District News

The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better time to show our incredible teachers and staff how much we appreciate them? To make it easy for you to pick the perfect gift, we’ve created a "Teacher Favorites List." This list shares their favorite snacks, drinks, hobbies, and other little things that bring them joy!

Here’s the link to the list: [Teacher Favorites List Spreadsheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ESX1oi7TE_pgHIJaB53qdFXR6lMZjKUiiLlbePz_mYU/edit?usp=sharing)

Take a peek and make your holiday shopping a little easier! Whether it’s a small token of appreciation or a heartfelt note, an extra special thank you for those who do so much for our kids.

Thank you for your support!

Celebrate Our Teachers & Staff This Holiday Season!

As part of our commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive educational community, we are delighted to announce the launch of the "Teachers Helpers" program

Objective:

Teachers Helpers aims to provide practical assistance to our hardworking teachers by having parents come into the school throughout the month to help with tasks that often demand additional time and attention.

How It Works:

Volunteer Tasks:

*   Parents will have the opportunity to volunteer for a variety of tasks, such as organizing classroom materials, preparing teaching aids, assembling student packets, or other tasks that contribute to the smooth operation of our classrooms.

Teacher Tasks:

*   Teachers will have their task labeled and laid out in the teacher’s lounge prior to the scheduled session.

We believe that the Teachers Helpers program will not only lighten their workload but will also strengthen the sense of community within our school. Your collaboration with our teachers will undoubtedly contribute to a more vibrant and supportive learning environment for our students.



Sign Up today here:  [Teacher's Helper Signup](https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F48A4A82DA0FCC70-45189086-teachers#/)

Teacher's Helper Program

Simply having one or more children attending MSTM Elementary School automatically makes you a member of the PTO and there are no dues associated with this organization. Simply contribute as much support as you would like through volunteering and/or supporting fundraising efforts.

How do I become a member?

Only if you want to. One of the great aspects of the PTO is that you may volunteer as much or as little as you like. During the school year, we hold monthly PTO meetings in the Library. Attendance is not required unless you are a committee chair. Watch our page updates for meeting dates and times. And for opportunities to get involved with activities through the year.

Will I have to volunteer a lot of my time?

The PTO is a great avenue for meeting other MSTM parents and for getting to know the educators and the Principal. The PTO parents are fun, laid back, and welcoming to anyone new to the organization. Our goal is to help you feel right at home. The meetings are also a great way to have your voice heard.

We are always eager to find more great people like you to help us meet this goal!

What if I don't know anyone on the PTO?

[**MSTM PTO**](http://mstmpto@gmail.com) **(mstmpto@gmail.com)**

**Connect with us on Facebook here:** [**MSTM Facebook Page**](https://www.facebook.com/groups/494267987323486/)

**Want PTO Updates? Register here:** [**PTO Updates**](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSczzjlUFu338zGkB3gWlszrEpRx1G1nW0a8UxGHcVoXyawGXg/viewform?usp=sharing)

**Donate to the MSTM PTO Here: MSTM PTO Donations**

Martensdale-St Marys Community School District

Helpful Information

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