Bowen Center's Enchanted Hills Community Center in partnership with Wawasee Community Schools is trying to sponsor a summer school program. At this time, there are not enough students committed to attending to actually run the program. If your child is going to be in grade four through grade eight during the 2009-2010 school year, and you are interested in your child participating in this program, please contact the community center (260-856-2136) or WCSC's central office (574-457-3188). A minimum of 20 students must be signed up with a maximum of 25 students able to participate.
The program will run Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon beginning July 19 and going through August 15 at the Enchanted Hills Community Center. The focus of the program is to work in teams using LEGO robotics to work on math, science, and language arts skills.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
WHS Class Reunion for Class of 1979
The 30-year class reunion for the Class of 1979 will occur on August 15 at 7:00pm at the South Shore Golf Course Clubhouse. Contact Phil Beer at 317-965-9159, at 380 East 226th Street, Sheridan, IN 46069, pbeer@usiconsultants.com.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Report on May 12 Meeting of Board of School Trustees
In “Good News” Dr. Edington recognized senior Paige Geer for her involvement with the KYLA organization and senior Jayna Winegarden with her KEYS organization involvement.
Allen Coblentz and student representatives of the super mileage car did a presentation of the process of making the car as well as the competition in Indianapolis. There was a short break in the meeting to view the car and ask any additional questions.
Mrs. Rebecca Linnemeier moved to accept the AP U.S. History Class Trip donations of $100 from Biomet, $250 from Zimmer, and $300 from The Papers. The motion also included accepting the donation from the Kosciusko County REMC for Vocal Motion performance at the annual REMC meeting. Mrs. Mary Lou Dixon seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-0.
Mr. Dallas Winchester moved to accept the grouped action items, and Mrs. Mary Lou Dixon seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-0. Included in the grouped action items were the minutes of the April 21, 2009, regular school board meeting, certified personnel recommendations including the retirement of Randy Warren, and claims dated April 1 – 30, 2009.
An Academy report was given by Mrs. Anne Rackley, Academy Director. Many students have benefited from the Academy and they are making great strides to encourage students to complete their high school education.
Dr. Bob Cockburn presented the stat of the month on sub groups in ISTEP testing.
Mrs. Mary Lou Dixon moved and Mrs. Rebecca Linnemeier seconded the motion to accept the additional action items. The motion carried 5-0. Additional action items included: April 2009 financial report, approval of handbook changes as presented, and approval of the Performance Services, Inc. contract subject to the changes presented by school attorney David Cates.
Dr. Edington’s superintendent report started by thanking school attorney David Cates and Milford principal Cindy Kaiser and the handling of a court situation involving a Milford student. He thanked them for keeping the focus on education of children. He also noted that the bomb scare at WHS for May 11th was handled very well by the administration and staff. Notification of modifications to law enforcement, parents, and media was well done. All students as well as staff entered the building through the front doors of the building. Summer projects will begin soon. Some will start before the end of the school year, but will be during second shift. Dr. Edington noted the passing of WMS head custodian, Dave Welker. He will certainly be missed. Finally, the WHS social studies academic super bowl team placed 4th at the state meet. Mrs. Mary Lou Dixon was the social studies super bowl coach.
Mrs. Joy Goshert, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, started her report with comments about the PPL 221 handout included in the board packet. Mrs. Goshert and Mrs. Wendy Hite, Director of Special Services, briefly explained how they plan to use the ARRA funds (stimulus funds) for special services as well as Title I. Mrs. Goshert noted that the corporation plans to continue next year as they have this year with full day kindergarten. One change is that they will be doing kindergarten screening in the spring so that parents will know sooner whether or not their students will be enrolled in full-day kindergarten. The 2009-2010 school calendar has not been finalized, but with no staff development and parent teacher conferences being scheduled, this does make for a very clean calendar. The calendar committee is going to meet again on May 13th to finalize the calendar.
The NEOLA board policy revisions were presented to the board for a first reading.
Allen Coblentz and student representatives of the super mileage car did a presentation of the process of making the car as well as the competition in Indianapolis. There was a short break in the meeting to view the car and ask any additional questions.
Mrs. Rebecca Linnemeier moved to accept the AP U.S. History Class Trip donations of $100 from Biomet, $250 from Zimmer, and $300 from The Papers. The motion also included accepting the donation from the Kosciusko County REMC for Vocal Motion performance at the annual REMC meeting. Mrs. Mary Lou Dixon seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-0.
Mr. Dallas Winchester moved to accept the grouped action items, and Mrs. Mary Lou Dixon seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-0. Included in the grouped action items were the minutes of the April 21, 2009, regular school board meeting, certified personnel recommendations including the retirement of Randy Warren, and claims dated April 1 – 30, 2009.
An Academy report was given by Mrs. Anne Rackley, Academy Director. Many students have benefited from the Academy and they are making great strides to encourage students to complete their high school education.
Dr. Bob Cockburn presented the stat of the month on sub groups in ISTEP testing.
Mrs. Mary Lou Dixon moved and Mrs. Rebecca Linnemeier seconded the motion to accept the additional action items. The motion carried 5-0. Additional action items included: April 2009 financial report, approval of handbook changes as presented, and approval of the Performance Services, Inc. contract subject to the changes presented by school attorney David Cates.
Dr. Edington’s superintendent report started by thanking school attorney David Cates and Milford principal Cindy Kaiser and the handling of a court situation involving a Milford student. He thanked them for keeping the focus on education of children. He also noted that the bomb scare at WHS for May 11th was handled very well by the administration and staff. Notification of modifications to law enforcement, parents, and media was well done. All students as well as staff entered the building through the front doors of the building. Summer projects will begin soon. Some will start before the end of the school year, but will be during second shift. Dr. Edington noted the passing of WMS head custodian, Dave Welker. He will certainly be missed. Finally, the WHS social studies academic super bowl team placed 4th at the state meet. Mrs. Mary Lou Dixon was the social studies super bowl coach.
Mrs. Joy Goshert, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, started her report with comments about the PPL 221 handout included in the board packet. Mrs. Goshert and Mrs. Wendy Hite, Director of Special Services, briefly explained how they plan to use the ARRA funds (stimulus funds) for special services as well as Title I. Mrs. Goshert noted that the corporation plans to continue next year as they have this year with full day kindergarten. One change is that they will be doing kindergarten screening in the spring so that parents will know sooner whether or not their students will be enrolled in full-day kindergarten. The 2009-2010 school calendar has not been finalized, but with no staff development and parent teacher conferences being scheduled, this does make for a very clean calendar. The calendar committee is going to meet again on May 13th to finalize the calendar.
The NEOLA board policy revisions were presented to the board for a first reading.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
ISTEP+ Review Process
If you recall, many of our state's teachers and parents expressed concern over the spring ISTEP+ test.
Dr. Tony Bennett, superintendent of public instruction for Indiana, had members of his staff along with representatives of the testing vendor and more that 160 teachers conduct a comprehensive review of the spring ISTEP+ exam. The results of that comprehensive review were released on May 29, 2009.
Dr. Bennett states, "Although across all grade levels and four separate content areas, less than 2.5% of questions were determined to be substantially out of alignment, I and my staff understand the tolerance for error in high stakes testing is zero. I share your disappointment that even a single item was out of alignment, but am gratified that the responsive action will be swift and significant and, most notably, that student scores will not be affected as a result of the misaligned items."
To read all of the information released by Dr. Bennett regarding the comprehensive review, please click here. Click here for a breakdown by grade level and subject for all of the items reviewed.
Dr. Tony Bennett, superintendent of public instruction for Indiana, had members of his staff along with representatives of the testing vendor and more that 160 teachers conduct a comprehensive review of the spring ISTEP+ exam. The results of that comprehensive review were released on May 29, 2009.
Dr. Bennett states, "Although across all grade levels and four separate content areas, less than 2.5% of questions were determined to be substantially out of alignment, I and my staff understand the tolerance for error in high stakes testing is zero. I share your disappointment that even a single item was out of alignment, but am gratified that the responsive action will be swift and significant and, most notably, that student scores will not be affected as a result of the misaligned items."
To read all of the information released by Dr. Bennett regarding the comprehensive review, please click here. Click here for a breakdown by grade level and subject for all of the items reviewed.
Monday, May 11, 2009
WHS Update
Today, Wawasee High School principal Ellen Stevens sent the following letter to high school parents updating them on today's events in responding to the bomb threat made for Monday, May 11, 2009:
This letter is to follow up on the events of this morning at Wawasee High School. As you are all aware, there was a thorough search involving dogs this morning before school opened. Everyone entering the building had to check in with a police officer who searched their bags. Nothing suspicious was found in the search of the building or the belongings that were searched.
An investigation is underway and the police are working to identify the person or persons responsible for the threat to our school. If we are able to identify a responsible party, it is our intent to handle the situation as an extremely serious event. Anyone having information related to this incident or any other threat to our school's safety is encouraged to contact a school administrator.
I regret that all of us had to go through the extra security measures this morning. It is an unfortunate reality that we have no choice but to take such issues seriously.
For the remainder of the day, there were extra police present in our building. We owe a great deal of thanks to our police officers from the Syracuse Police Department, the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department, Allen County, and Vigo County. They all responded quickly and thoroughly to our need. Working together we will continue to maintain a safe and secure building for our students and staff.
This letter is to follow up on the events of this morning at Wawasee High School. As you are all aware, there was a thorough search involving dogs this morning before school opened. Everyone entering the building had to check in with a police officer who searched their bags. Nothing suspicious was found in the search of the building or the belongings that were searched.
An investigation is underway and the police are working to identify the person or persons responsible for the threat to our school. If we are able to identify a responsible party, it is our intent to handle the situation as an extremely serious event. Anyone having information related to this incident or any other threat to our school's safety is encouraged to contact a school administrator.
I regret that all of us had to go through the extra security measures this morning. It is an unfortunate reality that we have no choice but to take such issues seriously.
For the remainder of the day, there were extra police present in our building. We owe a great deal of thanks to our police officers from the Syracuse Police Department, the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department, Allen County, and Vigo County. They all responded quickly and thoroughly to our need. Working together we will continue to maintain a safe and secure building for our students and staff.
Friday, May 08, 2009
WHS Information for Monday, May 11, 2009
The following was sent by principal Ellen Stevens to Wawasee High School parents on Friday afternoon regarding Monday, May 11, 2009:
Officials at Wawasee High School discovered a hand written message in a bathroom stall that relayed a bomb threat for the high school on Monday, May 11, 2009.
Immediately upon the discovery of the message, the Syracuse Police Department and the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department were notified of the threat and have been assisting the school in taking the necessary steps to be certain that the school is safe for staff and students on Monday. Officers from the Syracuse Police Department and the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department will be present at the high school, and the building will be thoroughly searched before school on Monday.
Students will not be admitted to the building until 7:15 a.m. on Monday. All students and staff will enter the building by the front door (door #1) only. All other entry points will be secured and unavailable for entry. All buses will drop students at the front door. Upon entering the building, students should expect that all bags, purses, and backpacks will be searched as they enter.
Once the students have checked in to school, they will be expected to make only a brief stop at their locker and then go directly to their first class where their teacher will be waiting. Once all of the students are in class, we will begin school and run the day on our normal schedule.
We regret the disruption and inconvenience that we will face as a school on Monday. However, this underlines the need for cooperation from all groups associated with the high school to help us be proactive with these types of issues. Anyone who has information related to this specific incident or any other safety issues at the school is encouraged to call and report immediately so the school officials can react. The safety of our students and staff is a priority.
Officials at Wawasee High School discovered a hand written message in a bathroom stall that relayed a bomb threat for the high school on Monday, May 11, 2009.
Immediately upon the discovery of the message, the Syracuse Police Department and the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department were notified of the threat and have been assisting the school in taking the necessary steps to be certain that the school is safe for staff and students on Monday. Officers from the Syracuse Police Department and the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department will be present at the high school, and the building will be thoroughly searched before school on Monday.
Students will not be admitted to the building until 7:15 a.m. on Monday. All students and staff will enter the building by the front door (door #1) only. All other entry points will be secured and unavailable for entry. All buses will drop students at the front door. Upon entering the building, students should expect that all bags, purses, and backpacks will be searched as they enter.
Once the students have checked in to school, they will be expected to make only a brief stop at their locker and then go directly to their first class where their teacher will be waiting. Once all of the students are in class, we will begin school and run the day on our normal schedule.
We regret the disruption and inconvenience that we will face as a school on Monday. However, this underlines the need for cooperation from all groups associated with the high school to help us be proactive with these types of issues. Anyone who has information related to this specific incident or any other safety issues at the school is encouraged to call and report immediately so the school officials can react. The safety of our students and staff is a priority.
Monday, May 04, 2009
Wawasee Community School Coporation Board Meeting - April 21, 2009
The Wawasee Board of School Trustees met on May 21 at Milford School. A work session at 6:30 pm preceded the regular meeting. The Board was updated with plans for summer construction work to be completed at each building.
The regular session began at 7:00 pm. A $500 donation to the WHS by Brenda and Jay Rigdon was accepted by the Board, along with a $25,000 Safe Routes to Schools grant to educate our elementary children on safe walking and bicycling techniques to school. Over 80 trains per day pass through our school district, and they do not travel slowly! MS teacher Christie Holst and Roy Hufford wrote the successful grant.
Minutes, personnel recommendations, and claims were acted upon. Our retiring teachers this year, in addition to earlier announced WHS Career and Technical Education Director Phil Metcalf and WHS assistant principal Alan Frank, are Laurel Graham, Julie Gunden, Nancy Nelson, Betty Lambert, Jerri Mahnensmith, Karilyn Metcalf, Cindy Peterson, Beth Skaggs, and Mary Jo Short.
In other personnel news, Tracy Roberts was hired to replace Phil Metcalf, and MS teacher Roy Hufford is heading to Carroll Consolidated Schools as elementary assistant principal.
The Middle School Leadership Academy students and teachers presented their activitites during this school year.
ISTEP data for each WCSC school relating to adequate yearly progress (AYP) was discussed with Dr. Bob Cockburn, corporation data specialist. Syracuse Elementary School and Wawasee High School passed AYP in every category, while Milford School missed in only one area out of 23 possible. Wawasee Middle School missed the mark in the language arts portions of the ISTEP test, while North Webster Elementary missed on some math and language arts areas.
The Board approved 2008 construction projects that include replacing some classroom heating/cooling units at WHS and SES; lighting at WHS and portions of MS, WMS, and SES; boilers at WHS and WMS; and pool heaters at WHS and WMS. Final portions of the middle school roof will be replaced, and the vocational building will be remodeled. It will be a busy summer!
Salaries for both teachers and non-teachers will go up 1 and 1/2 percent for the 2009-10 school year.
The vocational business classes at WHS will be eligible for additional state reimbursement next year, due to additional teacher training and licensure.
Federal stimulus monies and Indiana state budgets were discussed as we look toward our financial future as a district.
Proposed handbook changes for '09-'10 were distributed to the board members. Those changes will be considered at the May meeting.
Middle and high school social studies textbook and materials adoptions were completed.
Next year's calendar, with the now-required 180 full days, is currently being discussed and changes will be brought to the board at a later date.
The next meeting is set for May 12 at 7:00pm in the WHS Lecture Room.
The regular session began at 7:00 pm. A $500 donation to the WHS by Brenda and Jay Rigdon was accepted by the Board, along with a $25,000 Safe Routes to Schools grant to educate our elementary children on safe walking and bicycling techniques to school. Over 80 trains per day pass through our school district, and they do not travel slowly! MS teacher Christie Holst and Roy Hufford wrote the successful grant.
Minutes, personnel recommendations, and claims were acted upon. Our retiring teachers this year, in addition to earlier announced WHS Career and Technical Education Director Phil Metcalf and WHS assistant principal Alan Frank, are Laurel Graham, Julie Gunden, Nancy Nelson, Betty Lambert, Jerri Mahnensmith, Karilyn Metcalf, Cindy Peterson, Beth Skaggs, and Mary Jo Short.
In other personnel news, Tracy Roberts was hired to replace Phil Metcalf, and MS teacher Roy Hufford is heading to Carroll Consolidated Schools as elementary assistant principal.
The Middle School Leadership Academy students and teachers presented their activitites during this school year.
ISTEP data for each WCSC school relating to adequate yearly progress (AYP) was discussed with Dr. Bob Cockburn, corporation data specialist. Syracuse Elementary School and Wawasee High School passed AYP in every category, while Milford School missed in only one area out of 23 possible. Wawasee Middle School missed the mark in the language arts portions of the ISTEP test, while North Webster Elementary missed on some math and language arts areas.
The Board approved 2008 construction projects that include replacing some classroom heating/cooling units at WHS and SES; lighting at WHS and portions of MS, WMS, and SES; boilers at WHS and WMS; and pool heaters at WHS and WMS. Final portions of the middle school roof will be replaced, and the vocational building will be remodeled. It will be a busy summer!
Salaries for both teachers and non-teachers will go up 1 and 1/2 percent for the 2009-10 school year.
The vocational business classes at WHS will be eligible for additional state reimbursement next year, due to additional teacher training and licensure.
Federal stimulus monies and Indiana state budgets were discussed as we look toward our financial future as a district.
Proposed handbook changes for '09-'10 were distributed to the board members. Those changes will be considered at the May meeting.
Middle and high school social studies textbook and materials adoptions were completed.
Next year's calendar, with the now-required 180 full days, is currently being discussed and changes will be brought to the board at a later date.
The next meeting is set for May 12 at 7:00pm in the WHS Lecture Room.
Friday, May 01, 2009
WCSC Community Newsletter
May is here, with five weeks remaining in the school year. For some, the countdown of days has begun! We will continue our focus on the academic growth of our students.
We honored secretaries last week on their special day. School Nurses’ Day is May 6, and Teacher Appreciation Week is next week. We appreciate all they do!
The general assembly concluded without a two-year budget being adopted. They’ll get back together in June to attempt to meet the Governor’s new expectations for a larger state reserve. Politics!
Property tax bills are out for Kosciusko County. The Wawasee school tax rate is $.48. Other school rates in our county range from Warsaw at $.97 to WaNee at $1.23. The General Fund has been removed from property taxes and is now covered by the state through increased sales tax. Certain property tax relief measures in place last year have been removed, too. In short, property tax bills for most are a little less than last year.
Ten teachers retiring this year are Phil Metcalf, Betty Lambert, Julie Gunden, Cindy Peterson, Jeri Mahnensmith, Karilyn Metcalf, Beth Skaggs, Laurel Graham, Mary Jo Short, and Nancy Nelson. WHS assistant principal Alan Frank is retiring, also. We miss them already, even though they’re not gone!
We were recently awarded a Safe Routes to School grant by the state. The $25,000 grant will pay for educational activities to help our students safely walk and ride bikes to school. With about 80 trains per day, several busy highways, and lack of sidewalks at a few locations, our children are at risk. We hope for a second grant to connect the North Webster Elementary School to town sidewalks. Thanks to Milford School teachers Christie Holst and Roy Hufford for authoring the successful grant.
Congratulations to WHS teacher Allen Coblentz, retired SES teacher Larry Pletcher, and the WHS students who did so well in Monday’s high mileage competition in Indianapolis. They averaged almost 1,000 miles per gallon with their specially-designed vehicle.
Coach Mary Lou Dixon is leading the WHS Academic Super Bowl social studies team to state competition again this year. Andrew Anker, Krista Bornman, Brandon Cox, and Cassady Palmer will compete on May 9.
The WHS band, under Fred Elliott’s direction, received two Gold ratings at ISMAA competition this spring. Great!
There are presently no swine flu cases reported in or around Kosciusko County. We’re working with the Department of Homeland Security to monitor the situation. Thanks to Myra Alexander and Bob Lahrman for their efforts to keep us informed. Now go wash your hands…..
WHS math teacher Kristi Harris will represent Wawasee in helping the state with Algebra I end-of-course assessment evaluation in June. How I Spent My Summer Vacation!
Columbine’s 10th anniversary passed on April 20. We’re older, wiser, and, hopefully, safer in our schools than a decade ago.
Raises for the 2009-10 school year have been set. Teachers and classified personnel will receive a 1.5% increase. Thanks to the WCEA for helping us look at options to retain jobs in these tough economic times.
When our students take ISTEP next spring, 7% more need to pass the test for WCSC to pass AYP. The following year another 7% more need to pass ISTEP for us to pass AYP…. until 2014, when all of the children in all of our schools and the nation’s school will pass their state tests. That is the way No Child Left Behind designed the AYP system. For us at WCSC, let’s look at next year and work together to achieve an 80% pass rate as a district. We’re at about 72% now. That’s a couple more students per class passing the test.
The calendar committee is meeting to find unique and creative ways to have some staff development and, perhaps, parent conference opportunities next year. With the 180 full student day mandate from Dr. Bennett, we’ll give it our best shot!
Stimulus money, over a two year period, is heading our way. These federal funds are targeted at special education (about $750,000) and Title I (about $200,000). The funds come with many strings attached. We’re looking at increased staff development, technology, and other one-time uses to help our students. In two years the funding will be gone, and we don’t want to start programs we won’t be able to finish.
A Milford School child custody case made the news recently. A local court had ruled one way, while an Indian tribal council had ruled another. We went to court to find out which order we should obey. Due to federal treaty language, the Indian tribal council ruling prevailed. Thanks go to the Milford School folks for protecting the child and keeping education as a focus over these difficult days.
Enjoy the wonderful Spring weather, the field trips, and other concluding activities for this year.
PARALLELS
We honored secretaries last week on their special day. School Nurses’ Day is May 6, and Teacher Appreciation Week is next week. We appreciate all they do!
The general assembly concluded without a two-year budget being adopted. They’ll get back together in June to attempt to meet the Governor’s new expectations for a larger state reserve. Politics!
Property tax bills are out for Kosciusko County. The Wawasee school tax rate is $.48. Other school rates in our county range from Warsaw at $.97 to WaNee at $1.23. The General Fund has been removed from property taxes and is now covered by the state through increased sales tax. Certain property tax relief measures in place last year have been removed, too. In short, property tax bills for most are a little less than last year.
Ten teachers retiring this year are Phil Metcalf, Betty Lambert, Julie Gunden, Cindy Peterson, Jeri Mahnensmith, Karilyn Metcalf, Beth Skaggs, Laurel Graham, Mary Jo Short, and Nancy Nelson. WHS assistant principal Alan Frank is retiring, also. We miss them already, even though they’re not gone!
We were recently awarded a Safe Routes to School grant by the state. The $25,000 grant will pay for educational activities to help our students safely walk and ride bikes to school. With about 80 trains per day, several busy highways, and lack of sidewalks at a few locations, our children are at risk. We hope for a second grant to connect the North Webster Elementary School to town sidewalks. Thanks to Milford School teachers Christie Holst and Roy Hufford for authoring the successful grant.
Congratulations to WHS teacher Allen Coblentz, retired SES teacher Larry Pletcher, and the WHS students who did so well in Monday’s high mileage competition in Indianapolis. They averaged almost 1,000 miles per gallon with their specially-designed vehicle.
Coach Mary Lou Dixon is leading the WHS Academic Super Bowl social studies team to state competition again this year. Andrew Anker, Krista Bornman, Brandon Cox, and Cassady Palmer will compete on May 9.
The WHS band, under Fred Elliott’s direction, received two Gold ratings at ISMAA competition this spring. Great!
There are presently no swine flu cases reported in or around Kosciusko County. We’re working with the Department of Homeland Security to monitor the situation. Thanks to Myra Alexander and Bob Lahrman for their efforts to keep us informed. Now go wash your hands…..
WHS math teacher Kristi Harris will represent Wawasee in helping the state with Algebra I end-of-course assessment evaluation in June. How I Spent My Summer Vacation!
Columbine’s 10th anniversary passed on April 20. We’re older, wiser, and, hopefully, safer in our schools than a decade ago.
Raises for the 2009-10 school year have been set. Teachers and classified personnel will receive a 1.5% increase. Thanks to the WCEA for helping us look at options to retain jobs in these tough economic times.
When our students take ISTEP next spring, 7% more need to pass the test for WCSC to pass AYP. The following year another 7% more need to pass ISTEP for us to pass AYP…. until 2014, when all of the children in all of our schools and the nation’s school will pass their state tests. That is the way No Child Left Behind designed the AYP system. For us at WCSC, let’s look at next year and work together to achieve an 80% pass rate as a district. We’re at about 72% now. That’s a couple more students per class passing the test.
The calendar committee is meeting to find unique and creative ways to have some staff development and, perhaps, parent conference opportunities next year. With the 180 full student day mandate from Dr. Bennett, we’ll give it our best shot!
Stimulus money, over a two year period, is heading our way. These federal funds are targeted at special education (about $750,000) and Title I (about $200,000). The funds come with many strings attached. We’re looking at increased staff development, technology, and other one-time uses to help our students. In two years the funding will be gone, and we don’t want to start programs we won’t be able to finish.
A Milford School child custody case made the news recently. A local court had ruled one way, while an Indian tribal council had ruled another. We went to court to find out which order we should obey. Due to federal treaty language, the Indian tribal council ruling prevailed. Thanks go to the Milford School folks for protecting the child and keeping education as a focus over these difficult days.
Enjoy the wonderful Spring weather, the field trips, and other concluding activities for this year.
PARALLELS
It is often said that history repeats itself, but that is not entirely true. Every moment is unique. history may offer similar situations from which some wisdom may be gleaned, but it never duplicates itself. The other thorn in historical account is that while we know what actually did happen when past actions were taken, there is no way to know what would have happened if different or no actions were taken.
Parallels between the challenges faced by Franklin D. Roosevelt and Barack Obama are obvious: bank failures, stock losses, foreclosures, high unemployment, and widespread economic hardship. Roosevelt made heroic attempts to mitigate calamity through government intervention. Obama seems likewise inclined. There was criticism then as now, and New Deal efficacy is still questioned, but most citizens saw it as evidence of caring intention, and it is fact that millions of Americans were saved from starvation through direct relief.
Today there is more abundance to eat though masses of the general populace are without the necessities of life. It took Americans until well after WWII to pay for what their survival cost – much longer than the 10-year duration of the Depression itself. It will take a long while to dig out of this hole too, but lessons come with losses – wealth of a different kind.
In times of change, learners inherit the Earth; while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped to deal with a world that no longer exists. - Eric Hoffer
In times of change, learners inherit the Earth; while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped to deal with a world that no longer exists. - Eric Hoffer
SET THE EXAMPLE
I’ve always tried to be the guy who expects the most out of himself, so when I do ask those other guys to do the same, they’ll look at me and say, “Well, maybe this guy isn’t so full of crap.” - Tom Brady
I’ve always tried to be the guy who expects the most out of himself, so when I do ask those other guys to do the same, they’ll look at me and say, “Well, maybe this guy isn’t so full of crap.” - Tom Brady
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Letter from Dr. Remington, County Health Officer for Kosciusko County
The following is a letter from Dr. Remington with the Kosciusko County Health Office. The letter is an update on the North American Human Influenza A (H1N1):
The experience with North American Human Influenza A (H1N1) – previously known as “Swine Flu” –is growing, including a case at Notre Dame.
At this writing there are no documented cases in Kosciusko County, although it is very likely that we will see cases here in the next several days. Fortunately, at this juncture, the cases have been relatively mild and not life threatening. They typically resolve in a few days without any formal medical care required.
The symptoms of North American human influenza A (H1N1) are similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal influenza and include:
Fever over 100 degrees
lethargy
lack of appetite
coughing
Some people have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
I believe, at this juncture, it is important to convey the importance of “social separation” of those who may be ill with this influenza. People who have a fever with a prominent cough and achiness, should try to stay home until the fever is gone, and are feeling much better. They should not go to work, go to school, or enter crowded community settings. This simple step will help more than anything else. If someone is “worrisomely” quite ill, they should seek medical care.
The role of masks, antivirals (such as Tamiflu or Relenza), and hospital medical care are quite secondary to the simple interventions of “social separation” and are not needed for the vast majority of people with suspected influenza.
If this new strain eventually demonstrates to cause a high rate of very severe cases and/or death, then our public health directive may change. We all need to stay tuned to the developing story with this outbreak in the days and weeks ahead...
...Your health department remains strongly connected to our Kosciusko County emergency planners and expertise of the Indiana State Department of Health, and the Centers for Disease and Control. We are very tuned in with this outbreak.
Sincerely,
William L. Remington Jr., M.D.
Kosciusko County Health Department
The experience with North American Human Influenza A (H1N1) – previously known as “Swine Flu” –is growing, including a case at Notre Dame.
At this writing there are no documented cases in Kosciusko County, although it is very likely that we will see cases here in the next several days. Fortunately, at this juncture, the cases have been relatively mild and not life threatening. They typically resolve in a few days without any formal medical care required.
The symptoms of North American human influenza A (H1N1) are similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal influenza and include:
Fever over 100 degrees
lethargy
lack of appetite
coughing
Some people have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
I believe, at this juncture, it is important to convey the importance of “social separation” of those who may be ill with this influenza. People who have a fever with a prominent cough and achiness, should try to stay home until the fever is gone, and are feeling much better. They should not go to work, go to school, or enter crowded community settings. This simple step will help more than anything else. If someone is “worrisomely” quite ill, they should seek medical care.
The role of masks, antivirals (such as Tamiflu or Relenza), and hospital medical care are quite secondary to the simple interventions of “social separation” and are not needed for the vast majority of people with suspected influenza.
If this new strain eventually demonstrates to cause a high rate of very severe cases and/or death, then our public health directive may change. We all need to stay tuned to the developing story with this outbreak in the days and weeks ahead...
...Your health department remains strongly connected to our Kosciusko County emergency planners and expertise of the Indiana State Department of Health, and the Centers for Disease and Control. We are very tuned in with this outbreak.
Sincerely,
William L. Remington Jr., M.D.
Kosciusko County Health Department
Good News
Congratulations to the Wawasee High School Academic Super Bowl Social Studies team which qualified for state competition by placing third in their class at regional competition. They will compete at the state level on May 9th. Team members are Andrew Anker, Krista Bornman, Brandon Cox, and Cassady Palmer. The team is coached by Mary Lou Dixon.
Congratulations are also in order for members of the Wawasee High School Band and Mr. Fred Elliott who competed at Warsaw High School in the Indiana State School Music Association's Organizational Concert Band Contest and earned two gold ratings - one for their performance and one for sight reading.
We know many hours of preparation went into earning these honors. We are proud of all of you!
Congratulations are also in order for members of the Wawasee High School Band and Mr. Fred Elliott who competed at Warsaw High School in the Indiana State School Music Association's Organizational Concert Band Contest and earned two gold ratings - one for their performance and one for sight reading.
We know many hours of preparation went into earning these honors. We are proud of all of you!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Information on North American Human Influenza A (H1N1)
Federal, state and local officials are closely monitoring reported cases of the swine flu virus – officially known as North American Human Influenza A (H1N1) – in the United States, including one confirmed case in northern Indiana.
Symptoms and How It Spreads:
The swine flu symptoms appear to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza, including fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
The spread of this virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads, mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people affected. Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160°F kills the swine flu virus as it does other bacteria and viruses.
Symptoms and How It Spreads:
The swine flu symptoms appear to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza, including fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
The spread of this virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads, mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people affected. Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160°F kills the swine flu virus as it does other bacteria and viruses.
What Schools {Students & Parents} Can Do Now:
As a precautionary measure, schools {students and parents} are encouraged to take the following steps to prevent or contain the spread of the swine flu virus:
1) Practice good personal hygiene.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
2) Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
- If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
3) Get credible information.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/swineflu/index.htm
- Indiana State Department of Health: www.in.gov/isdh
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Post Prom - Second Edition
The Wawasee Post Prom will be held at the WHS. Please disregard the earlier announcement.
Monday, April 27, 2009
New Post Prom Location
The Wawasee Post Prom Party location has been changed from the WHS Auxiliary Gym to the South Shore Golf Course Clubhouse. Security will be added to watch all exits, and the bar area will be made alcohol-free. Attendees are encouraged to share rides.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Junior Achievement Fun Run
On Saturday, May 23, 2009, the Junior Achievement Fun Run will take place as a part of Milford Fest 2009.
The 5K Run/Walk will begin at 9 a.m. from the Waubee Lake Park Pavilion on Camp Mack Road. There will be prizes, door prizes, and goodie bags plus refreshments after. Awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category with awards for best overall man and woman.
All proceeds benefit Junior Achievement serving Wawasee area programs and impact over 1000 students in Wawasee Community School Corporation.
You can register online by May 15, 2009, with the cost being $10. Registering by May 15th guarantees you a t-shirt.
You can also register the day of the fun run between 8:30 and 9 a.m. with the cost being $12.
The 5K Run/Walk will begin at 9 a.m. from the Waubee Lake Park Pavilion on Camp Mack Road. There will be prizes, door prizes, and goodie bags plus refreshments after. Awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category with awards for best overall man and woman.
All proceeds benefit Junior Achievement serving Wawasee area programs and impact over 1000 students in Wawasee Community School Corporation.
You can register online by May 15, 2009, with the cost being $10. Registering by May 15th guarantees you a t-shirt.
You can also register the day of the fun run between 8:30 and 9 a.m. with the cost being $12.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
April 28-May 1: ISTEP+ Testing
Tuesday, April 28-Friday, May 1, Wawasee Community Schools' third through eighth graders will be taking the ISTEP+ multiple-choice assessments. This is the final part of the spring 2009 ISTEP+ testing.
For more information on the spring 2009 ISTEP+ testing, please read the press release from the Indiana Department of Education.
For more information on the spring 2009 ISTEP+ testing, please read the press release from the Indiana Department of Education.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Thanks, DEKKO Foundation!
Milford and Syracuse Schools were fascinated by the African Drum Ensemble a few weeks ago, and on Friday had the opportunity to see Synergy Brass Quintet live in concert. Synergy Brass Quintet performs more concerts than anyone in classical music today, averaging nearly 300 engagements a year. They have traveled to every corner of the globe and are internationally recognized as one of the world's premier brass ensembles. They have been on NPR, NBC, ABC, the Hallmark Channel and performed with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Boston Pops. To have them stop in our own "corner of the world" was an amazing experience for our students and left them wanting more classical music. Who would have guessed classical music could be so exciting?!?! Again, thanks to the DEKKO Foundation for helping us make it happen!
written by Peg Zimmerman, Milford School
written by Peg Zimmerman, Milford School
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Notes from School Board Meeting on March 10, 2009
The Wawasee Community School Corporation Board of Trustees met on Tuesday, March 10, 2009, at 5:30 p.m. in the North Webster Elementary School Library.
Donations were accepted for the WHS choral department from the Knights of Columbus ($1150.00), a sound system from Mr. And Mrs. Walter Palmer, and the Academic Super Bowl from Wawasee Kiwanis ($500.00). The WHS Student council sponsored a Winterfest for Riley Hospital, with the total of Riley donations for the year at $8000.00.
All-NLC Frosh Brittany Robinson swam to an 8th place in the state championships in the 50 freestyle and a 7th place in the 100 butterfly. Along the way, Brittany won both events at the NLC and sectional championships and established school, pool, conference and sectional records.
All-NLC swimmer Senior Jake Garner placed 14th in the 100 butterfly in the IHSAA state championships. Jake established the WHS record for this event at the Concord sectional. Also swimming in the state championships were Junior Robert Smith, 31st in the 50- freestyle and Warrior 200 yard medley relay swimmers Garner, Smith, Caleb Buyer and John Kirkwood, finishing 27th.
The Warriors are coached by Julie Robinson, Lenore Stump and Kevin Hite.
Minutes of the February meeting were approved, as were claims for payment.
Personnel recommendations, including the retirement this year of WHS assistant principal Alan Frank, were acted upon. Mr. Frank's knowledge, compassion, and work hours will leave a hard-to-fill void!
Dr. Bob Cockburn presented data relating to the changing demographics of our district and the Wawasee community. Free/reduced lunch numbers are double ten years ago, and English as a second language student have increased markedly.
Mr. Phil Metcalf, Vocational Director, and Ms. Shannon Fry, WHS counselor, discussed dual-credit opportunities for our high school students. Dual-credits are a way of awarding college credit for certain high school courses. WHS has been involved with dual-credits in several vocational areas. Advanced Placement, dual-credit classes for an Academic Honors Diploma are now being investigated.
The WCSC is piloting a full-day kindergarten program this school year. Teachers in that program presented preliminary results from this year. Full-day students are spending much more than double the ½-day students in learning activities. The teachers recommended continuing the program at least at the present levels for 2009-2010.
Mr. Jim Evans, finance director, reported to the Board on levels of the various funds. The Board approved a resolution to appropriate the construction funds to be used during the next two summers. A new copier lease was approved, too.
Dr. Edington, superintendent, reported about reading level (vocabulary) issues with the mathematics story problem portion of the recent ISTEP tests. District school nurses were thanked by the Board for their efforts. The status of planned summer facility work was discussed.
Director of Curriculum and Instruction Mrs. Joy Goshert discussed Fall ISTEP test results which impact our school designations. Wawasee Schools passing No Child Left Behind this year are Wawasee High School and Syracuse Elementary School. Wawasee passed as a district.
The School Board adopted new policies which have been researched and discussed during the past year. The policies officially begin on August 1.
The next Board meeting is set for 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21, at Milford School.
Donations were accepted for the WHS choral department from the Knights of Columbus ($1150.00), a sound system from Mr. And Mrs. Walter Palmer, and the Academic Super Bowl from Wawasee Kiwanis ($500.00). The WHS Student council sponsored a Winterfest for Riley Hospital, with the total of Riley donations for the year at $8000.00.
All-NLC Frosh Brittany Robinson swam to an 8th place in the state championships in the 50 freestyle and a 7th place in the 100 butterfly. Along the way, Brittany won both events at the NLC and sectional championships and established school, pool, conference and sectional records.
All-NLC swimmer Senior Jake Garner placed 14th in the 100 butterfly in the IHSAA state championships. Jake established the WHS record for this event at the Concord sectional. Also swimming in the state championships were Junior Robert Smith, 31st in the 50- freestyle and Warrior 200 yard medley relay swimmers Garner, Smith, Caleb Buyer and John Kirkwood, finishing 27th.
The Warriors are coached by Julie Robinson, Lenore Stump and Kevin Hite.
Minutes of the February meeting were approved, as were claims for payment.
Personnel recommendations, including the retirement this year of WHS assistant principal Alan Frank, were acted upon. Mr. Frank's knowledge, compassion, and work hours will leave a hard-to-fill void!
Dr. Bob Cockburn presented data relating to the changing demographics of our district and the Wawasee community. Free/reduced lunch numbers are double ten years ago, and English as a second language student have increased markedly.
Mr. Phil Metcalf, Vocational Director, and Ms. Shannon Fry, WHS counselor, discussed dual-credit opportunities for our high school students. Dual-credits are a way of awarding college credit for certain high school courses. WHS has been involved with dual-credits in several vocational areas. Advanced Placement, dual-credit classes for an Academic Honors Diploma are now being investigated.
The WCSC is piloting a full-day kindergarten program this school year. Teachers in that program presented preliminary results from this year. Full-day students are spending much more than double the ½-day students in learning activities. The teachers recommended continuing the program at least at the present levels for 2009-2010.
Mr. Jim Evans, finance director, reported to the Board on levels of the various funds. The Board approved a resolution to appropriate the construction funds to be used during the next two summers. A new copier lease was approved, too.
Dr. Edington, superintendent, reported about reading level (vocabulary) issues with the mathematics story problem portion of the recent ISTEP tests. District school nurses were thanked by the Board for their efforts. The status of planned summer facility work was discussed.
Director of Curriculum and Instruction Mrs. Joy Goshert discussed Fall ISTEP test results which impact our school designations. Wawasee Schools passing No Child Left Behind this year are Wawasee High School and Syracuse Elementary School. Wawasee passed as a district.
The School Board adopted new policies which have been researched and discussed during the past year. The policies officially begin on August 1.
The next Board meeting is set for 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21, at Milford School.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Dr. Bennett Announces Changes to 180 Instructional Day Policies
The following is a March 17, 2009, press release from the Indiana Department of Education. Wawasee Community Schools will need to work on options to respond to this new directive, which may cause a change in our board adopted 2009-2010 corporation calendar.
"(Indianapolis) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett announced changes in Department of Education policies designed to ensure students receive at least 180 days of instructional time each year, the minimum number required by state law.
“As President Obama said last week in unveiling his education agenda, ‘the challenges of a new century demand more time in the classroom,’ and I couldn’t agree more,” Bennett said. “The academic achievement of students is an urgent state priority and we should begin by ensuring students are in class at least the full number of days required by state law.”
Bennett announced a change in the way the Department of Education will handle waivers of the financial penalty for canceled instructional days due to severe weather. Last week the Department of Education adopted an emergency policy establishing guidelines for school corporations to apply for waivers of the financial penalty for canceled instructional days during the 2008 – 2009 school year only.
However, beginning in the 2009 – 2010 school year, the Department of Education does not intend to adopt such emergency policies.
“In the past, the Department of Education has occasionally allowed school corporations not to make up all the days that were canceled due to weather,” Bennett said. “Going forward, we believe this practice does not meet the needs of Indiana’s students. School corporations have it in their power to create academic schedules that build in the necessary flexibility that will allow them to ensure their students receive at least the minimum number of instructional days. The Department of Education stands ready to assist schools in planning their calendars and seeking creative solutions to guarantee students receive the 180 days of classroom instruction.”
After comprehensive review of the statutory language authorizing the waiver of a financial penalty by the Department’s legal staff and independent experts, the Department concluded that the practice of allowing eligible schools to schedule up to six half-days professional development during the school day was outside the scope of the waiver statute that authorizes the Department of Education to grant waivers only when instructional days are “canceled” due to “extraordinary circumstances.”
Beginning in the 2009 – 2010 school year, the Department of Education will no longer permit schools to use half-days for professional development activities within the 180 full instructional day requirement.
Additionally, parent-teacher conferences must be conducted outside of the 180 day requirement. A one or two hour delay due to weather-related conditions will still be considered an extraordinary circumstance. The school day will still be counted as an instructional day with this type of delay.
"(Indianapolis) – Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett announced changes in Department of Education policies designed to ensure students receive at least 180 days of instructional time each year, the minimum number required by state law.
“As President Obama said last week in unveiling his education agenda, ‘the challenges of a new century demand more time in the classroom,’ and I couldn’t agree more,” Bennett said. “The academic achievement of students is an urgent state priority and we should begin by ensuring students are in class at least the full number of days required by state law.”
Bennett announced a change in the way the Department of Education will handle waivers of the financial penalty for canceled instructional days due to severe weather. Last week the Department of Education adopted an emergency policy establishing guidelines for school corporations to apply for waivers of the financial penalty for canceled instructional days during the 2008 – 2009 school year only.
However, beginning in the 2009 – 2010 school year, the Department of Education does not intend to adopt such emergency policies.
“In the past, the Department of Education has occasionally allowed school corporations not to make up all the days that were canceled due to weather,” Bennett said. “Going forward, we believe this practice does not meet the needs of Indiana’s students. School corporations have it in their power to create academic schedules that build in the necessary flexibility that will allow them to ensure their students receive at least the minimum number of instructional days. The Department of Education stands ready to assist schools in planning their calendars and seeking creative solutions to guarantee students receive the 180 days of classroom instruction.”
After comprehensive review of the statutory language authorizing the waiver of a financial penalty by the Department’s legal staff and independent experts, the Department concluded that the practice of allowing eligible schools to schedule up to six half-days professional development during the school day was outside the scope of the waiver statute that authorizes the Department of Education to grant waivers only when instructional days are “canceled” due to “extraordinary circumstances.”
Beginning in the 2009 – 2010 school year, the Department of Education will no longer permit schools to use half-days for professional development activities within the 180 full instructional day requirement.
Additionally, parent-teacher conferences must be conducted outside of the 180 day requirement. A one or two hour delay due to weather-related conditions will still be considered an extraordinary circumstance. The school day will still be counted as an instructional day with this type of delay.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Use of WHS Computers to File Unemployment Benefits
Beginning the week of March 16, community members will be able to use the computers in the Wawasee High School media center to file their unemployment benefits.
The media center is located directly inside the front door of the high school and will be open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 3-5 p.m. to enable patrons to use the computers.
If you have any questions, please contact the high school. This is Wawasee High School's opportunity to give back to the community for the support that has been shown over the years to our students and staff.
written by Ellen Stevens, Principal of Wawasee High School
The media center is located directly inside the front door of the high school and will be open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 3-5 p.m. to enable patrons to use the computers.
If you have any questions, please contact the high school. This is Wawasee High School's opportunity to give back to the community for the support that has been shown over the years to our students and staff.
written by Ellen Stevens, Principal of Wawasee High School
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
School Delay on March 11, 2009
Wawasee Community Schools will be delayed 2 hours on March 11, 2009, due to high water on roads.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
