The GOOD Stuff… 💙

Over the weekend, a conversation with a young woman in her third year of college unfolded. We chatted about what it really takes to be a teacher, the profession she is pursuing. She shared that so many people had told her, “Why in the world would you go into education these days?”
She was starting to second-guess herself.
I immediately smiled and asked her a few simple questions…

“Do you like kids?”
She said, “I love them.”
“Do you like teaching?”
She said, “I love it.”
“Do you like making a difference in this world?”
She smiled and said, “I sure hope to.”
And then my response… 

You, young lady, are exactly where you need to be.

Never let the doubts or fears of others pull you away from your purpose or your path. The world needs people who care, who show up, who believe in young people, and who are willing to pour their hearts into shaping the future.

It really doesn’t take much to be reminded of the GOOD STUFF. It’s THESE YOUNG PEOPLE RIGHT HERE. They are the joy, the laughter, the growth, the hope… the BEST part of the day.

They are the reason teaching isn’t just a profession — it’s a calling, a privilege, and one of the most beautiful ways to make a difference in this world. 💙💙💙
14 days ago, Lori Hopkins
The GOOD STUFF - Students... 💙
The GOOD STUFF... 🌟

Brussels Jr/Sr High ~ #TogetherWeRise 💙 #SmallButMighty
15 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Brussels High and Junior High kids playing at lunch!
🦅 Inside the Eagle’s Nest 🦅 What a meaningful and exciting time of learning inside the Eagle’s Nest! Our kindergarteners have been exploring the polar regions, learning how animals adapt to their environments. They even took part in a fun (and messy!) “blubber” experiment, helping them understand how animals stay warm in extreme conditions. We also celebrated a big milestone—the 100th Day of School! Students dressed up like 100-year-olds and jumped into hands-on activities centered around the number 100, proving just how much they’ve grown this year. Our Space study wrapped up with student project presentations, where learners proudly shared what they’ve discovered about the universe. The creativity and confidence on display were truly out of this world! 🚀 During Black History learning, students explored the importance of kindness, unity, and understanding—reminding us that we all matter and that working together makes us stronger. Every day brings something new, thoughtful, and inspiring inside the Eagle’s Nest—together, we rise. 🦅
15 days ago, Pam Long
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Here are a few more photos from Lewis and Clark Stem Day! It was a great day of hands-on, real-world learning for our Brussels Junior High students! 💙#togetherwerise #smallbutmighty
16 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Our junior high students, along with Mrs. Long, Mrs. Gilbreth, and Mr. Stepanek, enjoyed a wonderful trip to Lewis & Clark Community College for innovative and engaging STEM activities. They enjoyed themselves GREATLY and learned a lot along the way. We are so proud of our students for being so involved, asking lots of questions, and showcasing their #smallbutmightly school spirit. Oh yes!! 💙#togetherwerise
16 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
Brussels Junior High students - STEM
We are seeking a qualified Social Science Teacher for grades 6–12 who is dedicated to engaging students in meaningful learning and fostering critical thinking in a positive, supportive classroom environment. Applicants should apply by following the guidelines outlined in the Official Job Posting.
16 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Social Science Educator - Job Posting
We are seeking a qualified K-12 Special Education – General Education Teacher who is dedicated to supporting diverse learners through inclusive, engaging instruction in a positive and supportive classroom environment; applicants should apply by following the application guidelines outlined in the Official Job Posting.
16 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Special - General Education Job Posting
Alex was all dressed up and ready to celebrate! 🎉 She shared that her special day was this weekend, and we sure do hope it was filled with fun, joy, and wonderful memories.

Wishing you a year ahead that is just as bright, happy, and amazing as you are, Alex! 💙
16 days ago, Lori Hopkins
IMAlex was all dressed up and excited for the weekend!
Wow! Freshman Jayleigh really impresses us all! 🤩 It's so wonderful to see the craftsmanship and dedication that shine through in this beautifully created cutting board from Industrial Arts class. Hands-on, real-world learning experiences like this help build confidence, spark creativity, and foster pride, all while allowing students to discover their talents and produce meaningful work. The project even turned into a heartfelt Christmas gift, a lovely reminder that education is about empowering students to create, contribute, and leave a lasting impact. 💙
“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” – B.B. King
#togetherwerise #smallbutmighty
17 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Industrial Arts Project - Jayleigh - Freshman!
Better late than never to share the GOOD STUFF…☃️
It’s nice after a big snowstorm to show up at school to find the roads and walkways are clear. While we get to stay home and off the roads, there are some pretty visual people out doing the work to keep us all safe. BIG thanks to Greg Nolte for ALL his work clearing snow and ice from our parking lots and sidewalks. The most recent snowfall was significant, and he did an outstanding job ensuring safe access for all. And also a SHOUT OUT for the highway departments everywhere! YOU ARE APPRECIATED!!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
#togetherwerise 💙#smallbutmighty
18 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Mr. Greg Nolte - Thank you!
Get in the Valentine's Day Spirit with some Valentine's Day Grams!

The Brussels PTO is selling Valentine's Day Grams for Valentine's Day! Each Gram includes a chocolate covered Love Bug Oreo, a marshmallow pop from Odelehr's Market, and a Capri Sun. Order forms were sent home with all students on 2/5, but don't wait until the last minute to order! The order forms are due by 2/10, and more forms are available in the office!
19 days ago, Hallie Kinder
Valentine's Day Grams
THE GOOD STUFF…🥰
We had the absolute pleasure of welcoming the amazing Ms. Marsha Erwin—former special education rockstar—to Brussels CUSD #42 for professional development last week! With more than 30 years as a special educator and fierce advocate for children, she energized and inspired our staff with her wisdom, best practices, and vibrant spirit. From classroom visits to meaningful connections across our school community, she made the day truly special. We’re grateful for her encouragement and proud to call her a friend of our district. 😃
#togetherwerise 💙 #smallbutmighty
19 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Ms. Erwin - Rockstar Special Educator!
Take a moment and think back to your elementary physical education days—the energy, the laughter, the friendly competition, and the joy of simply running as fast as you could. One look at these faces and it all comes rushing back, doesn’t it? 💙

This is a vital part of education. Movement gets those dendrites firing, wakes the brain, and sets the stage for meaningful learning. PE is where confidence grows, teamwork develops, and joy takes the lead—sometimes with a ball flying in every direction. 😊

There’s something truly special about PE class. I think my mom would agree 😉... and these students are a perfect reminder of why it matters! 💙
#togetherwerise #smallbutmighty
20 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Physical Education with Mr. Baalman
Get ready to celebrate a student who brings energy and joy everywhere she goes! 🥰 This month’s Brussels Junior High Student of the Month is Kleear Shelton. Kleear is always ready to help, quick to show her school spirit, and known for her enthusiastic and friendly personality. Whether she is volunteering, singing, or cheering others on, she helps create a positive and welcoming school environment. Kleear’s excitement and kindness make her a fantastic spirited Raider! 🎉
#togetherwerise 💙 #smallbutmighty
20 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Kleear Shelton - BJH SOTM

Let me introduce this month’s Brussels High School Student of the Month, Kate Schleeper — a student who quietly shines through dedication, authenticity, and determination. 🥇 Kate consistently goes above and beyond in her work and embraces challenges with a positive attitude. She stays true to herself, demonstrates a genuine love of learning, and listens carefully so she can grow and improve. Kate’s strong work ethic and commitment to excellence make her a wonderful example of what it means to be an exemplary Raider. 🌟
#togetherwerise 💙 #smallbutmighty

20 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Kate Schleeper - BHS SOTM

More GOOD STUFF… 👑
We are proud to celebrate Mrs. Amy Manker and Mrs. Jeanne Johnes as our Queens of School Spirit Award recipients for their extraordinary compassion, leadership, and unwavering support of our school community. During the challenging days when the high school was without heat and relying on space heaters, Mrs. Manker lifted morale by thoughtfully providing hot apple cider for staff, a simple yet powerful act of kindness that brought comfort and encouragement. 🥰
Mrs. Johnes graciously stepped in as an intermediary for Mrs. Kiel during her temporary leave, ensuring stability, communication, and continued support for both students and staff. 🌟 Their dedication to caring for others and fostering teamwork reflects the very best of our school culture, and their efforts truly make a lasting difference for our students and one another.
#togetherwerise 💙#smallbutmighty

20 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Mrs. Manker and Mrs. Johnes
More GOOD STUFF… ☀️
We are honored to recognize Mrs. Heather Sievers as our Sunshine Award recipient for her remarkable composure, professionalism, and care during a frightening bus incident when a turkey struck and shattered the windshield while she was driving. Mrs. Sievers remained calm under pressure, reassured her students, and ensured they arrived safely at their destination, even coordinating immediate repairs to keep transportation running smoothly. We are also deeply grateful to Mr. Chad Brodbeck for assisting with the bus switch and to Mr. Adam Herter for his incredible generosity in providing his large, heated shed so the windshield could be replaced right away. Because of the quick thinking, teamwork, and kindness demonstrated by each of you, our students remained safe and our bus was back on the road without delay. 🌟
#togetherwerise 💙#smallbutmighty
20 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Mrs. Heather Sievers

SUPERHERO AWARD — THE GOOD STUFF! 💙
We proudly recognize Mr. Chad Brodbeck and Mr. Fred Kuhn for their outstanding dedication to our school community. During the inclement weather closure from Friday through Tuesday, they generously gave their personal time to rewire the school for the secondary heating system and install multiple heaters, ensuring our high school remained a warm, safe, and welcoming place for students and staff. Their commitment, teamwork, and pride in supporting our district truly exemplify the spirit of service and make them most deserving of this month’s Superhero Award. 🥇
#togetherwerise 💙 #smallbutmighty

20 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Mr. Brodbeck and Mr. Kuhn
Get ready to relive the excitement, pride, and tradition of Brussels Raiders basketball! Brussels CUSD 42 is thrilled to welcome alumni, families, students, and community members back to the gym for a special evening celebrating the legacy of Raider athletics. This nostalgic event will bring former players, coaches, and fans together to honor past teams, share unforgettable memories, and create new ones. Join us for an electric atmosphere filled with Raider spirit as we celebrate the history, heart, and hometown pride that make Brussels basketball so special. 🏀💙
#TogetherWeRise #SmallButMighty
21 days ago, Lori Hopkins
Celebrating Raider Alumni...💙
The Great Duck Drop of 2026 is coming up soon!

If you want a chance to see if you're a lucky duck, the Class of 2028 is selling the Ducks 1 for $5 or 5 for $20. First Place will receive $400, Second Place $250, and Third Place $100.
22 days ago, Hallie Kinder
Duck Drop