Edmunds County Tribune -

Ipswich Elementary Principal Matt Pollock was honored by the South Dakota Association of Elementary School Principals (SDAESP). He was chosen the 2020 Innovative School Leader of the Year for his work with programs for elementary students.

"The successful innovative programs we have established at Ipswich Elementary School have been designed to enhance the learning opportunities for all our students," said Superintendent Trent Osborne.

Students now have the option to participate in one or all of the following clubs after school: Fishing, Cooking, Crafts, Art, Drama, Chess, Robotics, Sewing, Math, and Legos. Each club meets four different times during a month for one hour and are open to all students in kindergarten through fifth

grade.

"Everyone has a talent and skill and it is my responsibility as a principal to help them show it," said Mr. Pollock.

Osborne said the Ipswich School wants to give students an avenue to learn something new and/or show their talents and skills. They also want the community to get involved. "The teaching staff and community have been phenomenal in their support of the clubs and they have added to the learning experiences by leading or volunteering to lead some of the clubs," he said.

During the five months of school (before the COVID-19 pandemic), the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Mina Lake Association, community donations, and over 30 volunteers have helped to make our clubs possible Osborne said.