
Since John Harris Elementary opened the fall of 1991, 5th graders have had the chance to participate in a project to design a flag that represents the theme for that school year. The newest flags are all hung in the Multi-Purpose Room with the older ones in the gym. The project is funded through the PTO but is implemented by both staff and parent volunteers. It was wonderful to have over 40 students who worked hard to come up with a flag design for this year’s theme. From the entries, 6 finalists were chosen. Congratulations to the finalists: Claire Adams, Layla Otto, Layton Phrommany, Ella Sand, Lucia Sanders, Arianna Stern.
The theme this year that the students had to represent visually is : “Trying something new isn’t always easy, but sometimes, it’s the hardest work that leads to the greatest reward!” The winner this year, decided by a vote of the JHE staff and PTO leadership is Arianna Stern! The flag will be displayed in the MPR along with a plaque.
Thanks again to EVERYONE who participated in this great tradition at John Harris Elementary!
Lori Blom, Krista Larson : JHE PTO 5th Grade Flag Co-Chairs
Ms. Samantha Levisay: JHE Art Teacher

401 is studying Energy & Waves this quarter. In this investigation they were determining if the height of the ramp affected the distance a (toy) car would travel!





401 is studying Energy & Waves this quarter. In this investigation they were determining if the height of the ramp affected the distance a (toy) car would travel!





Father figures: we hope to see you at the first All Pro Dad of 2023, tomorrow from 7:15 to 7:45.
Come for donuts, coffee, and great conversation!


Classes will start 2-hours late tomorrow, Thursday, January 19, 2023 in the Sioux Falls School District due to the forecasted snow. There will be no morning practices or activities and no breakfast will be served. Please drive safely and slowly.


What’s more awesome than one JHE P.E. teacher’s birthday?! Two P.E. teachers’ birthdays!! That’s right…our very own Mr. Meidema and Mr. Beacom share a birthday! Happy Birthday to these two amazing educators.



Establishing healthy eating habits is the focus of this month's Family Forum Series, brought to you by Avera Behavioral Health and the Sioux Falls School District.
Watch with us here ---> https://youtu.be/52bvfQkh6GQ


After school Tuesday (80s day), staff played a competitive game of Family Feud as part of their staff learning. Mrs. Dykstra, Mrs. Hayzlett, Mrs. Mediger, and Mrs. Costello went head to head during the “fast money round,” while Mr. Conner hosted.



404 students played “team juggle” during P.E., using gross motor, verbal, and non verbal communications skills. Their goal was to work up to juggling 5 different items at a time!





There were many different looks to celebrate the 80th day at school by dressing from the 80s!




Don't miss valuable parent information provided by our partners at Avera Behavioral Health in our Family Forum Series. On Tuesday, January 17, 2023, we're discussing the importance of establishing healthy eating habits. Watch for the link or join us through our website.


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Join our team of substitute teachers! Enjoy a flexible schedule that you create and get paid WEEKLY (starting in February) while supporting our students and staff.
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We are celebrating our 80th day of school with a little 80's dress up fun. See the graphic below!

SFSD schools start 2-hrs late Thursday, January 5, 2023.


Due to there being no school tomorrow, January 4th, there will be no JHE PTO meeting. Stay safe!

Due to the amount of snow that fell with this winter storm and the time it will take for plows to get into residential neighborhoods, there will be No School, no practices and no activities tomorrow – Wednesday, January 4, 2023. District and school offices will be open.


In addition to there being NO SCHOOL today, an update now includes that SFSD Offices will also be closed on Tuesday, Jan 3, 2023.

A few more fun pics from the 4th grade and 503 parties!



Everyone from kindergarteners to fifth graders to staff enjoyed a little celebration and fun time during winter parties yesterday.



We have some talented musicians among our staff! Yesterday, Ms. Moser, Mrs. Merkouris, and Mrs. Hogarth took some time to lead students in some caroling fun!
