New Washington Elementary School 224 Poplar Street New Washington, IN 47162

Amy Hasselbring Principal

Phone: (812) 293-3331 Fax: (812) 293-5808 Email: ahasselbring@gcs.k12.in.us

March 5, 2012 Dear Parents, As we are all very aware, our community experienced the power of nature on Friday in a way that we dont often think will affect our own. There is peace and encouragement from the hearts of so many people who have offered to help in any way they can, even beyond the boundaries of Clark County. This morning brought uncertainty as we anticipated how many students were affected by the storms that rumbled through last week. As they walked through the doors, we saw how resilient they really are in circumstances that we cannot begin to describe. They talked with each other, hugged each other, and started their day ready to learn. I am proud of the determination of our Mustangs. We have decided to begin ISTEP testing on Tuesday morning. The students are ready, and weve decided to do our best in spite of the adversity weve recently faced. We will continue to serve free breakfast to all of our K-5 students this week, and we will be finished with testing on Thursday. Many people are asking for ways to help. You may still send donations of toiletry items to the fire station. We are also taking monetary donations through the New Washington Community Needs fund to help families in need of financial assistance. You may send cash or checks made out to NW Community Needs to the school. Thank you so much for your positive response to the events that transpired on Friday. It took everyone working together to ensure the safety of all. In the event that we lose power at the school, our phone lines go down. We are working toward a solution to this issue. Until one is reached, we will make every attempt to contact you from staff cell phones. Finally, if you are a family experiencing a need at this time, please contact the school and let us know. There is some assistance information on the back of this letter and we are ready to help. Sincerely,

Amy Hasselbring Principal