QCA.news - Quad Cities news and view from both sides of the river

Wednesday, August 26th, 2026
	New Federal ‘Harvest to Hallways’ School Lunch Initiative Falls Short for Iowa Farmers New Harvest to Hallways initiative from the department of agriculture strides to bring local harvests to school cafeterias.
	Class-action lawsuit claims UnityPoint Health shortchanged hourly workers A potential class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of employees of UnityPoint Health alleges the hospital chain has violated wage-and-hour laws by rounding down workers’ actual hours.
	Work on new Bettendorf recreational trail starts Sept. 1 Work begins on Middle Road from Hopewell Avenue to Forest Grove Drive on Tuesday, Sept. 1 as crews construct a new 10 foot recreational trail on the east side of the roadway. The first phase of this project includes installing a new storm sewer culvert under Middle Road. Middle Road will be closed from Hopewell [...]
	Dolly Parton didn't just write hits — she created an American songbook Parton, who died at 80 on Tuesday, had charm, depth, beauty, wit and radiant goodness. She was also a songwriter whose work told the story not just of country music but of the country itself.
	California says states, Meta agree to $17 billion settlement in child safety trial The social media giant also agreed to make sweeping changes to Instagram and Facebook.
	Meta, states agree to $17 billion settlement in child safety trial The social media giant also agreed to make sweeping changes to Instagram and Facebook.
	'Life of M' constructs a portrait of how stardom hides a person's core Like much of Rachel Cusk's work, Life of M is driven by her concern with conditions that impede self-definition -- for writers, artists, and women in particular.
	Muscatine will honor 9/11 victims with Moment of Silence, stair climb Muscatine first responders and community members will once again gather to honor the victims and heroes of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks during Patriot Day and the National Day of Service and Remembrance, a news release says. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the tragic events that reshaped the nation and demonstrated extraordinary [...]
	8 dead, hundreds missing as Nepal avalanche triggers flash floods The disaster is linked to climate change, with experts noting the region's vulnerability to extreme weather.
	SpeedyPie, 24/7 pizza vending machine, rolls out in Bettendorf The Quad-Cities’ pizza vending machine serves fresh, made-to-order pies around the clock and is already selling out often.
	Pumped Party Co. celebrates grand opening in LeClaire The new location is 443 N. Cody Road, with the grand opening set for Saturday evening.
	River Bend Food Bank's NorthPark, SouthPark pantries adjust hours Effective Monday, Aug. 31, River Bend Food Bank’s NorthPark and SouthPark pantries will have new hours. This adjustment will improve the service guests receive, as well as help the River Bend team accommodate the increased need, a news release says. The new hours, starting on Monday, Aug. 31, will be: People who seek immediate food [...]
	Democrat running for Iowa Treasurer wants to bolster IPERS, push for financial policies John Norwood is running for state treasurer as a Democrat. He visited the Quad-Cities earlier this month and spoke with the Quad-City Times.
	Muggy today, but nicer tomorrow A cold front will bring breezy conditions today and squeeze out some of the humidity. However, it turns hot and humid this weekend. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Longtime Rock Island civil rights, education leader shares thoughts on past and future The Rock Island County NAACP president has fought for civil rights and the public education system her entire life.
	Peanut Charley's This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Forget those pearly gates, golden streets, crystal fountains, and harps. I'm hoping for a heaven exactly like Peanut…
	COMIC: 7 lifestyle habits that may boost your chances of getting pregnant This illustrated guide has evidence-backed advice on how to support fertility for both men and women, including which foods to eat and which activities to avoid.
	Soaring summer power bills spark protests -- and even disconnections The price of electricity is soaring in the summer heat, when fans and air conditioners are working nonstop. In Tulsa, Oklahoma, people are having their power cut when they can't pay their bills.
	Gary Rowe named grand marshal for Rock Island Labor Day Parade The grand marshal has been named for the Rock Island Labor Day Parade. According to a release from the City of Rock Island, Gary Rowe has been chosen as grand marshal for the 42nd annual Rock Island Labor Day Parade. Rowe is a longtime community advocate and volunteer, executive director of the Rock Island Community [...]
	Hollywood's summer box office is glowing, but the numbers come with startling caveats Theaters have had something for everyone this summer, and fans are paying top dollar for premium formats like IMAX. There are also fewer moviegoers, fewer movies, and fewer screens than there were pre-COVID.
	Hospital nursery fire kills 14 newborns in Pakistan's capital, officials order immediate inquiry A fire erupted early Wednesday in a nursery for newborns at a major government hospital in Pakistan's capital, killing 14 babies, according to hospital officials and the government.
	Thyroid medication recalled nationwide due to possible 'superpotency' issue A pharmaceutical company is recalling 3,655 thyroid tablets sold nationwide because they could be more potent than usual and may bring about health issues for people who use them.
	Target faces renewed backlash for Halloween costume with 'minstrel show features' Retailer Target pulled a children's Halloween costume from its shelves after widespread social media backlash, apologizing for selling a garment critics said evoked racist minstrel caricatures.
	More than 50 kidnapped as violent gang attack in Haiti leaves 47 dead It is believed to be one of the largest mass kidnappings in Haiti in recent years, and one gang leader is threatening to kill the hostages if authorities kill any gang members as they try to secure the community nestled in the hills above Port-au-Prince.
Tuesday, August 25th, 2026
	High school football preview: North Scott It’s year two for Lancers head coach Tony Stewart, who led the team to the playoffs in his first season. The team is looking to build on that result.
	Assumption volleyball tops North 3-0 Assumption volleyball tops Davenport North 3-0 in first game of the season.
	Augustana football nears 2026 season opener Augustana enters this season with 42 seniors on the roster. The Vikings are coming off a 7-3 record last season.
	Kylie Kelce visited Judy's Cafe in Galesburg! According to Judy's social media post, Kylie actually stepped in to help in the kitchen and served food to guests.
	Dubuque man sentenced to 2 years in prison for stealing thousands of dollars worth of brass 64-year-old Dennis Lee Maas stole brass ingots from his employer, then sold them to a metals business.
	Parts of Milan under boil order Anyone in the affected area should boil drinking water before it's used.
	Construction to begin on new Bettendorf recreation trail next week The trail will be on the east side of Middle Road between Hopewell Avenue and Forest Grove Road.
	River Band Food Bank changing NorthPark Mall and SouthPark Mall pantry hours The new hours will take effect on Monday, Aug. 31.
	Dolly Parton in the Quad Cities: The music, fans and impact Fans in the Quad Cities remember Dolly for her talent, kindness and generosity.
	Dolly Parton fans in the Quad Cities remember her music and impact Flags are at half-staff Tuesday night as America mourns Dolly Parton. She left her mark on the whole country, including a dive bar in Davenport.
	Coroner announces presumed cause of death for man found dead in Hennepin Canal Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson said that 44-year-old Kyi Pyu is believed to have drowned.
	UTV rollover crash injures 3 in rural Hanover Jo Daviess County deputies were dispatched around 5:38 p.m. on Aug. 22 to S. Blanding Road at W. Diggins Road after receiving reports of the crash.
	Motion to dismiss charges filed in case of Davenport parents accused of child abuse On Monday, the attorney for an adoptive mother accused of child abuse asked a judge to dismiss two of the charges against the Davenport woman, while the state resists the motion. After allegations of child abuse, Andrew Warrington, 49; and Kellie Warrington, 47; remain in custody on a $2 million cash-only bond each in Scott [...]
	Man cited after crash injures 2 in Jo Daviess County A Naperville man was cited after he and another person were hurt in a crash.
	Checking Josh Turek and Ashley Hinson’s missed votes claims against each other Ashley Hinson and Josh Turek are both accusing each other of skipping votes.
	SpeedyPie brings fresh pizzas to the Quad Cities in a unique way A new pizza vending machine is serving fresh, hot pizzas near the TBK Bank Sports Complex in Bettendorf, with plans for more machines.
	Rock Island man sentenced to federal prison for trafficking in fentanyl A Rock Island man was sentenced to five years in federal prison for trafficking in fentanyl during a hearing Tuesday in U.S. District Court, Davenport.
	Man found in Hennepin Canal is presumed to have drowned Kyi Pyu, the man whose body was found Friday in the Hennepin Canal, is presumed to have drowned after an autopsy performed Tuesday.
	Moline High School baseball, softball facilities set for $9 million overhaul The $9.15 million upgrade will bring synthetic turf fields, new dugouts, a fresh parking lot and more.
	Affordable housing shortage grows in Moline Renew Moline has purchased an income-restricted apartment building in downtown Moline as housing officials say the need for affordable housing continues to grow.
	Dolly Parton's Imagination Library brought books to children in the Quad Cities and nationwide In 2023, a child in Whiteside County found a special "enchanted bookmark" in their book that won them a special meet-and-greet with Dolly.
	‘We are heartbroken’: Sherrard High School cancels rest of 2026 varsity football season Sherrard High School’s varsity football season will come to a close this Friday.
	Sexual exploitation, grooming charges dropped against Des Moines man Scott County prosecutors dropped charges of sexual exploitation and grooming against a Des Moines man. Assistant County Attorney Derek Jones filed a motion stating that further investigation is needed.
	‘We are heartbroken’: Sherrard High School cancels rest of 2026 varsity football season Sherrard High School will cancel the remainder of its 2026 varsity football season after Friday's home game to prioritize player safety and focus on JV development.
	Davenport Speedway roars back to life for Season Championship night After a month off for the fair and rain, the Davenport Speedway roared back to life for Season Championship night. Track champions were crowned Monday night in all six weekly classes. Track champions at this time are unofficial, awaiting verification from track scorers and IMCA, a news release says. The Outhouse / Storage to Go [...]
	Proposed project in Bettendorf could bring more housing near downtown After years of focus on the development of the area surrounding the TBK Bank Sports Complex, a proposed project would target residential development downtown. The project would bring 168 new apartments to Bettendorf's State Street, replacing the Hillside Mobile Home Park. Businesses in the area say the project could bring new investment and economic activity [...]
	Community Health Care receives $3M in Illinois state funding The Rock Island health clinic was among 21 clinics across Illinois to receive a state-issued grant.
	Instagram head Adam Mosseri testifies in defense of Meta in child safety trial The social media giant is being sued by four states who allege it designed Facebook and Instagram to hook kids — and lied to the public about the risks.
	Community Health Care receives $3M in Illinois state funding The Rock Island health clinic has a five year plan on how to spend the state issued grant.
	Several strikes and counting: Residents say Kirkwood Blvd. train bridge needs new signs City leaders in Davenport are looking at addressing a well known problem with one of its several truck eating bridges.
	Galesburg man arrested after alleged inappropriate sexual conduct during grocery delivery Francisco Daniel Urbina faces four charges after deputies say he engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct and unwanted physical contact with a resident.
	Niabi Zoo names its 3 newest Pallas's cats Born in June, Everest, Luka and Aslan are just one of two Pallas's cat litters born in the country over the last three years.
	Only light rain through the end of August for the Quad Cities We had PLENTY of rain during the first half of August - and thanks to the rainy start, we're going to end up above normal for rain in August. Looking ahead, there's only light rain coming over the next 7 days: Overall, plan on more sunshine than anything else over the next several days!
	Davenport man sentenced to 18 years in prison for death of 2-month-old daughter Bryson A. Hall of Davenport has been sentenced to 18 years for the 2022 death of his 2-month-old daughter.
	River Band Food Bank changing hours for pantries at NorthPark Mall and SouthPark Mall The new hours will take effect on Monday, Aug. 31.
	River Bend Food Bank adjusts hours for mall pantries The River Bend Food Bank mall locations will have new hours starting next week.
	Presumed cause of death identified for man found dead in Hennepin Canal Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson said that 44-year-old Kyi Pyu is believed to have drowned.
	Moline man waives preliminary hearing in AI-generated child sexual abuse material case Bjorn Boydston pleaded not guilty to 10 felony charges and waived his preliminary hearing Tuesday, demanding a jury trial.
	Jo Daviess County Sheriff warns residents of phone scammers posing as deputies Jo Daviess County Sheriff Klaus Kretschmer warns residents that scammers posing as deputies are demanding wire transfers for fake warrants.
	Public records reveal precarious finances at Kansas school founded by GOP candidate Zach Lahn Tax filings show Iowa gubernatorial candidate Zach Lahn's Kansas private school faced millions in debt
	Will Supreme Court’s order on mail-in ballots impact voting in Illinois? The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday temporarily lifted a lower court stay of President Donald Trump’s March 31 executive order limiting access to mail ballots nationwide.
	Rock Island man sentenced to federal prison for possession with intent to deliver fentanyl On August 25, a Rock Island man was sentenced to five years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Davaria Shargquil Lewis, Sr., 32, had 879 counterfeit oxycodone M30 pills containing fentanyl inside a vehicle, which officers found during a March 2025 [...]
	New Illinois law allows state to invest in union housing trustNew Illinois law Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker recently signed Senate Bill 3086 () into law. The bill allows Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs to invest in the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust (https://www.aflcio-hit.com/), which focuses on building and preserving affordable and workforce housing, creating union construction jobs and generating returns for investors while fostering community development. Illinois State Sen. Ram [...]
	Jo Daviess County Sheriff's Office warns of increase in fraud complaints Sheriff Klaus Kretschmer reminded the public to be cautious when communicating with individuals online or over the phone.
	New Illinois law allows state to invest in union housing trust Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker recently signed Senate Bill 3086 into law. The bill allows Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs to invest in the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust (AFL-CIO HIT), which focuses on building and preserving affordable and workforce housing, creating union construction jobs and generating returns for investors while fostering community development. Illinois State Sen. Ram [...]
	Rock Island man sentenced to federal prison on fentanyl charge A Rock Island man was sentenced to five years in federal prison on Tuesday for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
	Iowa voters can now request absentee ballots for Nov. 3 election Iowa voters can now submit their requests for absentee ballots for the Nov. 3 General Election.
	South Carolina U.S. senate runoff election will test Trump's endorsement The primary runoff in South Carolina between Sen. Darline Graham and Rep. Ralph Norman is another test of President Trump's influence. He's backing Darline, sister of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham.
	Sen. Darline Graham wins GOP nomination for U.S. Senate in South Carolina In a major win for President Trump who went all in for the political newcomer, Sen. Darline Graham beat out longtime Congressman Ralph Norman in a special election primary runoff in South Carolina.
	3 juveniles taken to hospital, 1 airlifted, after UTV crash in rural Hanover Jo Daviess County deputies were dispatched around 5:38 p.m. on Aug. 22 to S. Blanding Road at W. Diggins Road after receiving reports of the crash.
	Tree fall on car in Bettendorf Our Quad Cities News was in the 1000 block of Grant Street, where a large tree fell on a car. Traffic has been rerouted and there have been no reports of injuries at this time.
	Death Notice: Bonnie Amhof A funeral service for Bonnie Marie Amhof, 87, of Eldridge, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, at Park View Lutheran Church. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the church. Burial will be in Davenport Memorial Park. Runge Mortuary, Davenport, is assisting the family with arrangements. Mrs. Amhof died Monday, Aug. 24, 2026. Memorials may be made to Park View Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be made at www.rungemortuary.com. An obituary will appear in the Sept. 2 edition of The NSP.
	Preliminary autopsy results show cause of death for body found in Hennepin Canal Preliminary autopsy results have been released on the body of a man found in the Hennepin Canal last week.
	Lighted Holiday Parade returns to Sterling Sterling is welcoming the Lighted Holiday Parade back to downtown Sterling on Friday, December 4 in coordination with Sights & Sounds. The parade will start at 5:30 p.m. and move through downtown Sterling before ending at the Library Plaza tree. Santa will then help officially kick off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting. [...]
	Traffic Alert: Grant Street closed due to police and fire presence Grant Street is closed due to police and fire presence Tuesday afternoon.
	Silvis passes new lawn, yard maintenance ordinances Silvis City Council has adopted amendments to its ordinances regarding grass, weeds, property maintenance and dangerous trees that are now in effect.
	REVIEW: Picasso at the Lapin Agile at Richmond Hill Players Barn Theatre Picasso at the Lapin Agile continues at Richmond Hill Players Barn Theatre in Geneseo, Thursday through Saturday, August 27 through 29 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, August 30 at 3:00 p.m.
	Review: Death of a Salesman at Black Hawk College Death of a Salesman by Mockingbird on Main continues in Building One of the Black Hawk College Campus in Moline Thursday through Saturday, August 27 through 29 at 7:30 pm. Enter the building through the south entrance and hang left where you will be swept up into this tale. Mockingbird’s collaboration with Black Hawk College has adopted the “pay what it’s worth” model, meaning you choose what to pay on your way out so cost is no excuse to skip this phenomenal show
	Hatebreed, September 5 Touring in support of their forthcoming album, Fatal Paradox set for release November 27, the Grammy-nominated metalcore rockers of Hatebreed headline a September 5 concert at Davenport's Capitol Theatre, lead vocalist and co-founder Jamey Jasta performing with his outfit more than 30 years after their debut.
	Waterloo man sentenced for making machine guns at home Federal judge sentences 35-year-old Nicholas Wilson of Waterloo to prison after ATF agents found converted machine guns in his home.
	7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience, September 10 and 11 On September 10 and 11, the chart-topping, Grammy-winning rockers of the Eagles will be celebrated when Rock Island's Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse hosts the return of 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience, two evenings of beloved, iconic hits sure to include such chart-toppers as "Best of My Love," "One of These Nights," "Heartache Tonight," and "Hotel California."
	“Solitary Man: A Tribute to the Songs of Neil Diamond,” September 9 A beloved venue regular at Rock Island's Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse will take on the repertoire of one of history's most admired singer/songwriters in the September 9 concert event Solitary Man: A Tribute to the Songs of Neil Diamond, with Hauskins and a team of gifted musicians treating audiences to adored smash hits including “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” and “Sweet Caroline.”
	Robert Lester Folsom, September 7 Lauded by Post-Trash as " a breath of fresh air, mixing nostalgia of the past with a fervor for the present," 71-year-old singer/songwriter and performance veteran Robert Lester Folsom headlines a September 7 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, the artist touring in support of his critically acclaimed 2026 release If You Wanna Laugh, You Gotta Cry Sometimes: Archives Vol. 3, 1972-1975.
	Parts of Milan under boil order An email from the Village of Milan said a boil order is in effect for: All water used for drinking and cooking should be boiled before use. Click here to learn what to do during a boil order.
	3 kids injured, 1 airlifted after rollover UTV crash in Jo Daviess County Three juveniles were hurt, with one having to be airlifted, after a rollover UTV crash over the weekend.
	13-year-old reporting missing from Moline has been found Police were asking for the public's help locating a missing teenager. He has since been found and is reunited with his family.
	Requests open for Scott County absentee ballots Scott County voters can now submit requests for absentee ballots. Tuesday, August 25 is the first day for voters to submit requests for absentee ballots by mail for the November 3 General Election, according to Scott County Auditor Kerri Tompkins. Voters must request an absentee ballot to receive a ballot through the mail. Ballots will [...]
	Bob Log III, September 10 With his live show described as a "blues punk guitar dance party," and the artist having enjoyed frequent tours of North America, Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Taiwan, and Iceland, experimental rocker Bob Log III headlines a September 10 concert event at Davenport's Raccoon Motel.
	Bragolin, September 6 Touring in support of their 2026 recording I Don't Like What It Does to Me, the Dutch dark-wave artists of Bragolin headline a September 6 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, Post-Punk.com stating that in the band's latest album, "The hooks arrive fast, the atmosphere never loosens its grip, and the songs move with a furtive elegance, as melody and menace circle each other like figures glimpsed through smoke and ritual light."
	Emily How, September 5 With her 2022 EP Flight Behavior hailed by The Prospectus as "an experience that envelopes one within a fireball of emotion," Illinois-based singer/songwriter Emily How headlines a September 5 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, The Prospectus adding, "For those new to Emily How, now is a great time to get acquainted."
	Sababa 5, September 4 Hailed by Spectrum Culture as a band that "has a knack for cooking up a good groove," the touring musicians and Tel Aviv natives of Sababa 5 headline a special September 4 concert at Rock Island venue Rozz-Tox, their 2026 album Çeva Va Ça Va lauded by YouAndTheMusic.com as "exactly what you want to hear from them; Middle Eastern global funk."
	Don Jovi, September 10 Presenting the ultimate celebration of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Bon Jovi, Galesburg's Orpheum Theatre, on September 10, will treat fans to the tribute artists of Don Jovi, lead vocalist Don Chaffin and his quartet of bandmates dedicated to honoring Bon Jovi's music with the highest respect and authenticity.
	2026 Senior Citizen Riverfront Golf Cart Tours, September 3 and 4 A beloved local tradition designed specifically for seniors continues into its 26th year when River Action, on September 3 and 4, hosts two days worth of self-guided Senior Citizen Golf Cart Tours, with his year’s event including a tour of the Arsenal Island taking place in the early evening, allowing for a normally unseen look at the Mississippi River and the historic island.
	North Scott Press — August 26, 2026
	“44th Rock Island Art Guild Fine Arts Exhibition,” September 5 through January 10 An eagerly awaited tradition featuring dozens of recent and debuting works in a variety of artistic mediums, the 44th edition of the Rock Island Art Guild Fine Arts Exhibition will be on display at the Figge Art Museum from September 5 through January 10, with the Davenport venue housing paintings, sculptures, installations, and more by artists living within a 200-mile radius of the Quad Cities.
	New North Scott administrators report to the principal's office The first day of the 2026-27 school year is in the books, and by today, all North Scott students will have officially reported to class. But more than a few of those students will have seen at least one important new faculty member. North Scott replaced multiple administrators this year, as Ed White principal Carrie Lane retired and Alan Shepard principal Chad Ruth moved on to a position with the Pleasant Valley Community School District. When junior high assistant principal Stephanie Fahrenkrog was hired to succeed Lane, that created another opening. Now, Fahrenkrog’s position has been filled by Stacey Ruff, a former teacher leadership coordinator for the Pleasant Valley Community School District. And Ruth was succeeded by Kory Esbaum, who formerly worked as an elementary principal for the Bettendorf Community School District. All three sat down with The North Scott Press last week to discuss their hopes for this school year. Esbaum: “I don’t ever want the principal’s office to be a scary place” While she’s new to the principal’s office at Alan Shepard, it’s hardly Kory Esbaum’s first experience with the Long Grove elementary school. Her oldest son attended Alan Shepard for kindergarten and first grade. This position is a return to the North Scott community for Esbaum and her family – her husband grew up in Dixon and is a North Scott alum – and she said she’s excited to return and “be a part of this great team, this great community. Not only at North Scott, but at Alan Shepard.” Esbaum has about 20 years of experience in education, including 14 years in the classroom. “My background is primarily early childhood special education – supporting students ages three to five, in fully inclusive classroom settings. I did teach kindergarten for a couple of years as we were navigating COVID, so that was a time.” After four years as an elementary principal in the Bettendorf Community School District, Esbaum said she was looking for a little bit of a change, and the position at Alan Shepard certainly stood out. “It’s not too big of a district, but it has that bigger district support, and very much that community feel. That tight community feel that you don’t generally get sometimes in kind of a larger space.” While she was working as a classroom teacher, Esbaum said she didn’t necessarily see herself going into administration, even as she pursued a post-graduate leadership degree from St. Ambrose University (where she also earned her bachelor’s degree). “When I was teaching in the classroom, I had welcomed a few student teachers. And there was always that kind of wonder about it. I really love coaching and supporting and helping adults grow in their practice. When I got my leadership degree, I was more focused on early childhood education, like that special education director aspect. I had many conversations with my professor where he would say, ‘Are you sure? Are you sure we’re not looking at a principal role here? Don’t lose sight of that.’” As a principal role presented itself in Bettendorf, Esbaum came to realize she enjoyed being able to coach and support staff while still being involved with students. “Not being too removed from the classroom – that’s kind of the added bonus.” Since coming on board officially on July 1, Esbaum has been working to get to know her staff, “I offered the opportunity to connect with teachers, as they wanted, for summer break. Something that came up a lot was, ‘Why Alan Shepard? What’s kept you here for so long?’ And it’s that community. It’s that we are together, we are supportive. We are here for each other. We are here for our kids. We are here for families.” That’s something she said she’s looking forward to continuing at Alan Shepard. And she’s working towards building a positive environment at the school, even as staff works through what promises to be an active school year, with new curriculum being rolled out. “That was part of my staff meeting on Tuesday. It starts with us. We need to show students you belong here and we’ve got some work to do, but we’re going to have some fun. This is a fun place to be, and even if we get through challenging things with curriculum and changing things, we’re going to dig in, but we’re going to do it together. And let’s have some fun.” Esbaum said seeing student growth is one of the things that makes her most passionate about education. “Seeing that growth in kiddos, and adults, that acknowledgement of ‘Hey, I can do this.’ “Yeah, we’re going to encounter things that are hard, but we’re going to come out the other side. We’re going to get to where we realize, maybe when I was down here, I looked at this mountain and I wasn’t quite sure. But one step at a time, together, we got there. It’s just being able to be there and celebrate those progressions along the way. All kids are working towards different goals, different outcomes. All adults are focused on different things, different growth areas. Just being able to lean in and support whatever their journey is, cheering them on and helping them along the way. And being there to celebrate that moment. That’s kind of the lightbulb moments – the big celebrations and the seemingly small wins throughout the day.” Celebrating the wins also means getting to know all students and staff. “I’m looking forward to getting to know everybody and being a part of this community. Working alongside teachers as they’re navigating some new things, taking it in and really doing all of that together.” Esbaum said her goal is to know everyone’s name – including all of the students – by Christmas. She said that might sound ambitious, but it’s something that’s very important to her while she builds relationships. “There’s a lot of students, a lot of families, different staff members in and out and across the district. But just being able to walk into a space and be greeted by name. That just feels like, ‘I matter here. I’m valued.’” She also plans to be a familiar face in the building, in classrooms, the lunchroom and recess. She said that won’t just help her get to know the students, it will also help her see ways she can help support the staff. “Especially as we’re implementing some new things that we’re really excited about and being able to make sure that I’m fully supportive and know that in the classroom, this is what’s going on.” As Esbaum welcomes a fresh start at North Scott, she also knows she won’t be the only new face at Alan Shepard this year. “All of our kindergartners are new. We do have some new students that are coming. It’s a fresh start for them, and it’s a fresh start for their families. I think, especially for our older students, sometimes that can be hard when you come to a space where everybody knows everybody. So, I’m going to just be leaning in and working closely with our school counselor and very closely with our classroom teachers, on, how are we welcoming our new kiddos and showing them what’s great about Shepard. Making sure they feel supported and welcomed and part of the crew.” And Esbaum wants students and their families to know that Alan Shepard will always be a safe place for them. “Everybody makes mistakes, and sometimes those mistakes are a little bit more difficult to talk about. But I want them to know that we will always talk about it. We will always talk through it and we will problem solve. If we’re looking at some challenging situations, the goal is always, ‘What can we do next time?’” She said she wants families to be part of the solution, especially if there are outside circumstances a student might be facing. “I don’t ever want the principal’s office to be a scary place. Some students come for a celebration. Like, ‘Your teacher told me about this thing that happened, and that’s so great. Let’s talk about it and let’s celebrate.’ “That’s another reason that I like to be out in the school, in the lunchroom and at recess as much as I can. So I don’t inadvertently become the person who is the ‘Trouble Person.’ Because I think that’s a societal thing – don’t go to the principal’s office. But it’s OK. Sometimes we talk about hard stuff, but we don’t always have to. I like to get to know people so then, if we have a challenge, we can talk through it and it feels like a safe conversation, because it is.” Building a safe environment for Esbaum means creating a space where students feel free to be themselves. “We have students, and we have staff, that need a variety of things in their spaces. That could be physical things, sensory things, learning needs. These could be social-emotional needs. Everybody’s needs are welcome. It’s really digging down and getting to know that student or family or staff member, to know and understand what do they need and how can we provide it.” And now, fresh off Unpack Your Backpack and preparing for the first day of school, Esbaum said she’s already grateful for the opportunity to serve North Scott. “I’m just so appreciative of the warm welcome and well wishes for a great year.” Fahrenkrog: North Scott ‘built me into the person that I am’ Stephanie Fahrenkrog says she’s a “North Scott Lancer through and through.” And indeed, she’s worked for the district from the very beginning of her career, even student teaching at John Glenn Elementary School as she completed her degree from the University of Northern Iowa. She graduated from Central DeWitt and married a North Scott alum. And now her children attend school in the district. But although she’s worked at North Scott from the start, Fahrenkrog’s new position as principal at Ed White is still something of a homecoming for her, as she returns to her roots in elementary education. After her student teaching experience, she was hired as a fourth-grade teacher and later a reading interventionist at Virgil Grissom, where she worked for five years before moving over to Neil Armstrong. After four years at the Park View elementary school, she began pursuing a master’s degree in reading and literacy and became an instructional coach, splitting her time between Ed White and Virgil Grissom. “That helped me get a broader perspective of elementary in general,” she said. “Being an instructional coach gave me that love of leadership and that drive to continue my education – from just leading teachers to being a part of the bigger picture when it came to working with students and families in the community.” That led her to pursue her administration degree from UNI. Halfway through that experience, she was hired as assistant principal at North Scott Junior High. “That was very exciting, but very unknown, also. I began my administration experience during COVID. That was a unique year. Coming not just into administration and leadership in general – that was all brand new to me – but at the time it felt like everyone was doing new things that year because it was COVID. So, I felt like it wasn’t as abrupt of a transition for me from elementary to secondary because of all the things that were new.” Fahrenkrog worked with other administrators to help develop the district’s Return to Learn plan following the pandemic. “I had an overwhelming amount of support going into administration, as I would have any other year. But going in during that Return to Learn plan and having hours upon hours of helping plan and making that successful to get our students back face to face really made the transition so much smoother and welcoming, knowing we were all in it together. And we had to be at that time.” But after six years at the junior high, Fahrenkrog said she wanted to continue to grow in a leadership position. She said, although she loved working with students at that level, she also knew she wanted to return to elementary, where she had “boots on the ground” experience in the classroom. “That was something I could never speak to, necessarily, at the secondary level. So, when this opportunity came up to pursue advancing in my leadership career, I definitely knew it was the right time. And it definitely called to me that I wanted to go back down to elementary, and I had experience in this building. “I never envisioned leaving North Scott,” she continued. “I have an eighth grader at the junior high, so I was able to have a year with him. But then thinking about the next step in my career, I did want to see where I could take my leadership skills.” Being back at Ed White has been a smooth transition, as Fahrenkrog said she already knew a lot of the staff from her time as an instructional coach. “That was really great, to feel very welcome right off the bat, from people who I had worked with, and then people who I hadn’t.” There were other advantages for Fahrenkrog. Coming down from the junior high, she already knew some of the Ed White families who have older students in seventh and eighth grade. And she’d worked closely with Ed White’s previous principal, Carrie Lane, and the assistant principal, Kevin Moses, on the administrative team. Fahrenkrog said she doesn’t anticipate too much of a major learning curve, going back to the elementary level. “I feel like I have enough experience with elementary to dig back to my roots and know what good instruction looks like. That’s no different at any level. I remember when I was going through some training as an instructional coach and thinking about having a conversation with say, an art teacher or somebody who teaches industrial tech. I don’t have any experience in any of those particular areas. And so, one of the big things I took away was that good instruction is good instruction. So, having those foundational skills and knowledge going back down to the elementary level, I think will benefit me.” She also said she feels fortunate to have had her years at the junior high to see how students transition from elementary to secondary grades, including their social skills and attention to things like organization and responsibility. “I’ve really taken a lot of time this summer to think about how we can start here to help prepare them for the next step, whether that’s kindergarten to first grade, sixth grade to the junior high, or eighth grade to high school. How can we start with those little steps down at the elementary level and be part of that journey?” Since April, when she accepted the position, Fahrenkrog said she’s been working to become as knowledgeable as possible about the building, including the staff, families and the elementary curriculum. The district introduced a new math curriculum last year and will roll out a new English Language Arts curriculum at the elementary level this year, so Fahrenkrog expects there will be both challenges and additional learning opportunities for students and staff alike. And she said she’s working hard to continue building on the culture of success and support at Ed White. “Our philosophy when it comes to education is ‘Students First,’ and that will always be at the forefront of our minds. But we can’t put our students first if we don’t put ourselves and each other first. So, building each other up, supporting one another … there’s a lot of things to navigate. And so, if we can’t do that together and build each other up, that’s something that’s going to make the days and years seem long. “I think that’s the biggest message that I would like to make sure I send to the staff, the students and the community – that we are here to support one another. Whether that’s academically, behaviorally, socially, whatever that might be. If we’re not supporting one another, it makes for a challenging position.” Success comes from support, and Fahrenkrog said she’s always been inspired by seeing the people around her succeed. “I think ever since I started – even as a classroom teacher – small successes, no matter what that might look like. Whether it’s a student, whether it’s another teacher, staff member, office staff, or anyone in between. My passion comes from seeing that glimmer of hope. There’s always room for growth. There’s always room to learn more and to help support one another to see the success in students. “Students, when they walk through the door the first day to when they leave at the end of the year, there’s so many things that happen in the middle and you get to be part of that journey. And that journey comes with successes that you’re able to witness on a day-to-day basis, week-to-week, month-to-month, to see those things happen. That’s where my passion comes from – making sure that we’re able to help students see the success in themselves and build confidence as learners. Because we want them to leave North Scott being lifelong learners, walking away from their education knowing that they can go out into the world and do anything and be anything that they want to be.” Fahrenkrog said she’s had a lot of time throughout her career to learn more about what students are capable of and said she’d like to play an active part in some mentorship opportunities, including having students from the junior high come over to Ed White and teach their younger counterparts about skills they might need as they grow older. As the year starts, Fahrenkrog said she’s looking forward to getting to know her “amazing staff” and watching them put their plans for the year into action. “I’m excited to see those passionate teachers and paraeducators and all staff members in the building, just day-to-day, because they’re so excited to have students back in the building and so excited to work with them. I think that’s the biggest thing I’m looking forward to. And also seeing the teamwork that is going to need to take place with some of the challenging things that we have coming across our plate. It’s going to be a lot of learning, but also a lot of building each other up and supporting one another, so that teamwork is going to be necessary.” Fahrenkrog also said she wants Ed White to be a place where students feel safe. “The word ‘safe’ can mean so many things. Safe to be themselves, safe to take chances and risks, safe to step outside their comfort zone and meet a new friend or try something new or share an answer from a math problem they’re not confident sharing. Also, that they’re safe to share things and they’re safe to come to adults and they’re safe in this building. Just stressing that this is a place where we want you to be who you want to be, and that you can be anything and this is the safe place to do it.” Looking back on her nearly 20 years in education, Fahrenkrog said she’s grateful for the opportunity, not just to grow her leadership skills, but to be able to do so at North Scott. “I always knew that I wanted to further my leadership skills, and I’m very fortunate to be able to do that in this building and do that in this amazing district that has built me into the person that I am. “My children are in this district. My husband graduated here. So, I’ve got a lot of North Scott connections and, even though I didn’t grow up in this community, it feels like I have.” Ruff: “We’re going to be learning together” As she takes up her position as the new assistant principal at North Scott Junior High, Stacey Ruff said she’s excited to serve the families in the community. “Everyone, since I’ve gotten here, has been nothing but welcoming, and you can feel the family atmosphere in the school and across the district. So, I feel really grateful for the opportunity to be back in a building.” Ruff certainly has classroom experience, but her previous position was as the teacher leadership coordinator for the Pleasant Valley Community School District. She began in education as a third-grade teacher but spent much of her career as a reading specialist for kindergarten through eighth grade. She has experience at the collegiate level, teaching at the University of Dubuque and Augustana College in their education departments. She also served as a volleyball coach, which she said was “a big part of my background.” But as Ruff looked to continue her career, she took advice from a North Scott connection. Bernadette Brustkern, who formerly served as principal at Ed White and North Scott’s curriculum director, was also the director of secondary education for the Pleasant Valley Community School District. Although Brustkern recently took a position as executive director of learning and results for the Davenport Community School District, she also gave Ruff some advice. Ruff said, “I had the fortune to work with Bernie Brustkern at PV, and through the three years that we worked closely with each other, just all the positive things she had to share about (North Scott).” She said she’s looking forward to having a more permanent base now that she’s at the junior high, rather than working at different buildings the way she did in her last position. “I’ve really missed that – that connection with kids and families and teachers in that capacity.” While middle school might not be the first choice for some people in education, Ruff said, “it’s kind of my jam. “I think the part that I like about junior high kids is, they’re trying to figure out who they are, and they’re in this land of ‘I can still be a little kid and have fun and still love learning,’ But you’re also able to have adult-like conversations. It’s just a fun, unique age, for sure. And you have to be a little quirky to roll with the punches sometimes.” For her part, Ruff said she didn’t necessarily ever see herself in an administrative position as she was beginning her career. “I always thought I was going to stay in the classroom. I remember when I was younger, taking my younger brothers and sisters and playing the teacher. They hated it; I loved it.” But her view on administration began to change as her career continued. “I think it’s just the impact that you get to have on kids. And in the positions that I’ve been fortunate enough to have, I keep getting a more expanded view of the system. The thing that I’m most excited about is still getting that view but still being in a building to impact kids and families.” Although her time at North Scott has been short, since she began, Ruff said she’s gotten to see the district’s “wonderful culture,” and she said she wants to continue to improve on that. “It’s not about changing but continuing to make it better. We know better; we do better. So, a culture where kids are first and we’re doing all that we can for them, academically and socially, and helping them be involved, because we know that when we have those kinds of relationships with kids, they end up excelling in the classroom. “Culture is really, really important to help people achieve and relationships are the foundation of all of that.” Although Ruff officially began her job on July 1, she was able to attend the district’s annual administrative retreat in June. She said she enjoyed “seeing the cohesiveness of the administrative team” and their willingness to work together to build on the district’s mission and vision. “My experience so far has been really wonderful. People are super welcoming and I’m just excited to be a part of that culture that’s so team oriented.” Now that she’s in the building and working closely with junior high principal Chad Jones, Ruff said she’s also had time to reflect on what she wants to make her position. “I think a big part of this role is helping our students be successful when they might be facing challenges – whether that is around behavior, attendance, things with academics. I feel like it’s helping be a problem-solver at the table with families to help them be able to be successful at school. I think a strength that I bring is that I have a lot of background in professional development. So, being able to add that into the work that we do here, as a teammate for Chad, I think will be a fun part of the role as well.” In the days leading up to the first day of school, Ruff said she was most excited to see students in the classroom again and to start making connections, not only in school but in the community. She said she was looking forward to being able to attend school events to get to know students, families, and other stakeholders in the district. “Seeing the kids here, being able to be a part of having a positive impact on their lives, that’s what I’m most excited about.” Ruff said she has a passion for learning and students, and “creating a culture of helping people achieve what they want to achieve. “Fundamentally, a value of mine is building people’s capacities, and my own at the same time. Any relationship, you actually get to build your own capacity, because you learn something from it.” Junior high can be a rough time for some students, with lots of personal changes, as well as being in a new school with more students. Ruff wants students to know that there is a team at the junior high ready to help them if they need it. “At this school, we have very high standards. But it’s not high standards without support. There is a whole team of people rallying for that student, to help them be successful, from the staff here to their own families as well. So, when there is a kid who might be having some challenges in whatever area, just know that those high standards are going to stay the same, but we’re going to find ways to help meet them.” And for students who might be a little nervous, they can know that Ruff is right there with them, sharing a new experience. She’s already had the opportunity to meet families at the junior high’s open house and orientation, and she said, “The cool thing is it helped me to connect with kids and the new things we’re going to be learning together. Ruff said she’s also been building relationships with teachers, and she’s asked them what they love about North Scott. “Every single teacher that I’ve met with said it’s the family atmosphere that’s here already; that people look out for each other and want to help people succeed. And I have felt that since Day One, for sure.”

Wednesday, August 26th, 2026

Tuesday, August 25th, 2026