Winter Break for Plymouth Schools

On Monday, December 25, 2006 through January 5, 2007, school will not be in session due to winter break.

On January 8, 2007, the elementary schools, Riverside, and Lincoln Jr. High will not be in session due to a teacher work day. Plymouth High School students WILL have school that day.

2006-2007 New Staff

Charles Ratliff is our new ENL teacher at Lincoln Junior High. He attended University of Arizona and Grand Canyon University. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s degree in Journalism. He and his wife, Elizabeth, have a daughter, Rebecca.

Charles is glad to be in Indiana. He has visited numerous years during summer vacations. He looks forward to living and working in Plymouth.

2006-2007 New Staff

Steven Boyer is our new 8th grade language arts teacher at Lincoln Junior High. He is a graduate of Manchester College. Steven has a twin sister, Sara. He also has an older sister, Lindsey and a younger brother, Kevin. He is the son of Kevin and Ruth Boyer.

Steven is looking forward to teaching at Plymouth because of the size and location of the city.

Thank An Educator 2006

What is it?“Thank an Educator 2006” is being launched to give students (present and past) and parents an easy way to show their appreciation for school employees who have made a difference. It’s a simple idea: send a thank you note to someone who has helped you.

How do you thank an educator?

Complete the form and send it to:

Plymouth Community School Corporation
611 Berkley St.
Plymouth, IN 46563

2006-2007 New Staff

Shari Bloom is our new business teacher at Plymouth High School. Shari is a graduate of Manchester College. Shari has a daughter, Jia (5), that she adopted from China four years ago.

Shari is pleased to be teaching in Plymouth because Plymouth has a great school corporation. Shari is also excited to be teaching in the same building that she graduated from.

2006-2007 New Staff

Jennifer DeMont is our new AM Kindergarten teacher and PM 2nd grade ENL teacher at Menominee. She is a graduate of Ancilla College and Indiana State University. Jennifer has two daughters that attend Webster Elementary.

Jennifer grew up in the Plymouth community and is also a PHS graduate. She believes that Plymouth has an excellent school system.

2006-2007 New Staff

Emily Kershner is joining the staff at Jefferson as the A.M. Kindergarten teacher. She is a graduate of Butler University. Emily and her husband, Mike, have a son, William. Mike is a teacher at Menominee Elementary.

Emily is a Plymouth native and is thrilled to be giving back to her community.

2006-2007 New Staff

Stacy VanDerWeele is teaching 5th grade science at Riverside. She is a graduate of Ball State University. Stacy and her husband, Todd, have 3 children, Spencer, Alexis, and Madilyn.

Stacy is pleased to be teaching for Plymouth because it is a hardworking school corporation. She is excited to be teaching again. She did her student teaching for Plymouth 11 years ago.

2006-2007 New Staff

Elaine Hebert is our new Kindergarten teacher at Washington Elementary. She is a graduate of Louisiana State. She and her husband, Wayne, have two children, Derek and Alex. Both of her children attend Plymouth High School.

Elaine feels that she is blessed to be a part of the Plymouth Community School Corporation. She has been welcomed by all of her co-workers and the administration.

2006-2007 New Staff

Shannan Hildebrand is our new 3rd grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary. She is a graduate of Indiana University. Shannan is married to Chris Hildebrand.

Shannan is looking forward to working for with a wonderful school system and a very friendly staff.

2006-2007 New Staff

Derek Bowen is the new Instrumental Music teacher at Lincoln Junior High and Riverside Intermediate. He is a graduate of Indiana University. Derek and his wife, Danielle, have two children, a daughter, Megan, and a son, Matt.

Derek is looking forward to teaching in Plymouth because there is a level of educational excellence that he wants to be a part of.

2006-2007 New Staff

Rogelio Guzman is our new Spanish Instructor at Plymouth High School. He is a graduate of IUSB.

Rogelio is glad to be at Plymouth High School because they provide an excellent program for all the students. He also feels that he can acquire the proper tools to be an effective teacher.

2006-2007 New Staff

Rachell Davis is our new Special Ed teacher at Lincoln Junior High. She is a graduate of Ball State University. She and her husband, Nate, have been married for a year and are expecting their first child in December. They also have a dog, Dude, and a cat, Miles.

She is excited to be working for Plymouth Community Schools because of the amazing school system and the friendly community environment. Rachell is also a former graduate of Plymouth High School.

2006-2007 New Staff

Kerry Johnson is our new 2nd Grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary. She is a graduate of Purdue University and Bethel College. She is married to her husband, Bruce. They have 3 boys.

Kerry is pleased to be teaching in Plymouth because it is a great school corporation with a lot of positive momentum driving the staff, students, and parents. The corporation is very up to date and has a lot of opportunities to offer the students, their families, and staff.

Blog bits

Update of Buildings
The base coat of asphalt on Elm Street and the auxiliary parking lot have been completed at Menominee Elementary School. The application of the final coat and the installation of the street lights will take place as soon as weather permits. Contractors are wrapping up the punch list. The folding door between the gymnasium and the music room and a second folding door in the conference room are scheduled for delivery and installation by the end of the month. The soccerplex field has been reconditioned and reseeded. The Plexiglas has been installed on the railings at each end of the H.S. gymnasium to provide for the safety of small children.

Wellness Policy
We appreciate the many comments we have received regarding the wellness policy. We invite all of our constituents to read the policy and the guidelines. We think a reading of those will answer many of the rumors and misconceptions that persist. We are both willing to meet and discuss the policy and guidelines and how they are being implemented at Plymouth. When there are concerns about the lunch program, please direct those to the building principal so the situation can be investigated.

United Way
Our employee United Way campaign has concluded. This year, the employees of Plymouth Community Schools have donated and/or pledged $12,903.00 to Marshall County United Way. This is a 10% increase over last year. Our employees see first hand the benefits and services member agencies offer our students and our student’s families. Our student campaigns will continue for the next few weeks. We are anticipating that our students will break the record of $6,024.00 in giving from last year.

Riverside
The Riverside staff had prepared diligently for the last 18 months in anticipation of the implementation of the 5th and 6th grade program. We now see students and staff excited about Riverside. Our sincere appreciation is extended to the Riverside staff for their preparation and enthusiasm. Go Rockets!!

2006-2007 New Staff

Cory Duncan is our new ENL teacher at Riverside Intermediate. She is a graduate of Bethel College. Cory has a son that will be attending Washington Elementary.

Cory graduated from Plymouth and is looking forward to giving back to the School Corporation that gave so much to her.

Wellness Policy

The Wellness Policy and associated guidelines were developed to educate our students about healthy lifestyles. Please take the time to view the Wellness Policy and the Guidelines .

2006-2007 New Staff

Michael Edison joins the Plymouth High School Staff as the new Social Studies teacher. He is a graduate of Bethel College. Michael and his wife, Emily, have two children.

Michael is pleased to be working for Plymouth because it is a great community. He is excited to be a part of such a great school system.

Blog bits

Wellness Bit, Pieces, and Responses

We’ve been writing this blog for several years now and this is the first time we’ve gotten some good responses. So, for those who took the time to write thoughtful responses, I would like to thank you. First, I would like to address several of the responses and then I would like to share information from the Wellness Advisory Board.

We did some research on how snacks would improve ISTEP scores. We found nothing. We did find that insuring that students ate a good breakfast was very important to their success. I would like to applaud Webster’s PTO for providing breakfast for all students during ISTEP week. We feel fortunate to serve breakfast in all of our schools and hope in the future that the school, PTO’s, and parents can all partner to insure that our children eat a good breakfast, either at home or at school.

I do have to apologize for one of the statements I made in my last post. After the post I got a call from one of our kitchen workers. She said that during the first week of school she did go through a student’s lunch and talk to him about the drink he had in his lunch. So, to the parent who wrote that response, please accept my apology. I will do everything in my power to insure that something like that doesn’t happen again.

There are no pop and candy machines in the elementary schools with the exception of the staff lounges. The pop and candy machines at the junior high contain 50% “Better Choice” items and are turned off thirty minutes before school starts through thirty minutes after school ends. The pop and candy machines at the high school also contain at least 50% “Better Choice” items. The “Better Choice” items can be sold until school starts and then after school ends. The machines that do not contain “Better Choice” items have to be turned off thirty minutes before school starts through thirty minutes after school ends. It has taken a while for the companies to comply with our policy because they had to retrofit their machines with times and / or key switches.

When the high school’s cafeteria was renovated, the Red Rock Café took the place of the salad bar. The Red Rock Café serves subs, salads, fruit, hot and cold sandwiches, grab-n-go lunches and a variety of “Better Choice” ala carte items. If we can insure an appropriate seat time during lunch periods at the high school, we may see the return of soup.

Our lunches have to meet the requirements of the Federal Hot Lunch Program including a caloric limit of 700 – 800 per lunch. We have not changed the portion sizes of lunches at the high school or any other school for that matter. Two weeks ago we did ask students who wanted a double lunch to eat their first lunch, and then get in line again to buy a second lunch. This was to insure that all students standing in line were able to get appropriate seat time for eating their lunch. We have observed the lunch period several times over the last two weeks. Our students are getting through much faster now and for those who want additional food, they have plenty of time to get a second lunch.

Based upon our consultations with doctors and nutritionists, we are confident that we are on the right track. The school’s wellness mission should be to educate students about good nutrition and exercise. Our policies should reflect that mission. Then, the choices students make outside of the school day should reflect what they’ve learned in school and at home.

Our Wellness Advisory Board met October 3, 2006 to organize the Wellness Summit to be held on October 27, 2006. During the summit we will focus on the following:

1. Wellness Education for students, staff, and parents
a. Aligned Curricula in health, PE, and FACS
b. K-12 Nutritional Unit
c. Parent Education
2. Wellness Program for Staff Members
3. Breakfast and Snacks in Elementary Schools (ISTEP)
4. Celebration Guidelines
5. Daily Physical Education for Students
6. Measurable Wellness Objectives

In addition, we plan to hold educational meetings this year where doctors and nutritionists can talk with teachers and parents about health concerns linked to nutrition and exercise. We also plan to hold open forums where parents and teachers can express their opinions concerning nutrition and exercise at the school. Until then, I invite you to talk to a member of the Wellness Advisory Board if you have questions or comments. The advisory board is made up of the following:
Community Representatives
Karen Richey, Purdue Extension
Lisa Jones, Holm Medical Group
Parents
Lisa Poczik, Elementary Parent
Val Carlberg, Secondary Parent
Other
Kelly Skirvin, SJMC Nurse
Frank Brubaker, PCSC Board
Gloria Burnam, PCSC Food Services
Eleanor Danielson, Dietician
Administrators
Dan Tyree, Chair
Jeni Hirschy, Assistant Principal
Students
Brendan Fox, Senior
Rebecca Moberly, Sophomore
PCSC Staff Members
Aimee Portteus, Secondary
Alyssa VanVactor, Elementary

2006-2007 New Staff

Lisa Mattke is our new 1st grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary. She is a graduate of Northern Illinois University. Lisa has a sister, Amber, that is a senior at PHS.

Lisa grew up in Plymouth and is looking forward to the opportunity to teaching in her home town so that she can give back to education and her community.

2006-2007 New Staff

Lori Ann McClellan will be teaching Earth Space Science at Plymouth High School. She is a graduate of Indiana University. Lori and her husband, Jim, have three children, Robbie, a junior, Sean, a freshman, and Sommer, 5th grader.

Lori is excited to teach in Plymouth as it is her home. Her children have attended Plymouth Schools and she is pleased with the job Plymouth Community School Corporation has done educating them.

2006-2007 New Staff

Chad Miley is the new Business Education teacher for Plymouth High School. He is a graduate of Indiana University and Ball State University. Chad is a newlywed as of June. His bride is Christine.

Chad is excited to work for Plymouth Community Schools because of its reputation. Plymouth is a great community with at school corporation that is respected statewide.

2006-2007 New Staff

Brooke Busse is our new Title I/Reading Teacher for Washington Elementary. She is a graduate of Valparaiso University. Brooke is married to Ryan.

Brooke is pleased to be teaching in Plymouth because it is a very successful school corporation that is up-to-date with all of the new teaching strategies.

Wellness Myths

Wellness Myths

There are several myths in the community concerning the Wellness Policy at Plymouth Community Schools. There may be more than the ones presented today, so we would be honored by your questions.

Myth 1

Portion sizes have decreased at the schools. Actually, the portion sizes for all buildings have stayed the same. We’re not serving as many dessert items and we’ve removed some of the ale carte items at the junior high and high school. The removed items such as the Twix Bars were removed because they did not fit into the definition of “Better Choice” items as described by state law.

There will also be a change in double-trays at the high school starting next week. In order to provide adequate time for all students to get through the lunch line, students will need to get their first tray of food and then return to the line for a second tray of food if they are still hungry. We hope this will give all students the opportunity to sit, relax, and eat their lunch.

Myth 2

We are searching lunches and taking out non-nutritious choices that parents send. Once again, this is not true. We encourage parents to send nutritious food in their lunches, but we have no brown-bag police. There are two items that we will not allow in school only if we see them in the lunch room. First, we don’t want students to bring soda pop in their brown bag lunch. Second, we do not want fast food bags or pizza boxes brought into the cafeteria. Allowing this type of competition with the Federal Hot Lunch Program is not allowed.

Summary

During the first two weeks of school, we sold nearly 400 hundred more breakfasts and 1,500 more lunches than we did last year during those same two weeks. Our commitment is to continuously look at ways to make school lunches nutritious, tasty, and a relaxing experience. Our students work hard and our teachers have high expectations for them. It’s important that their lunch time is a time when they can relax and eat a good lunch.

2006-2007 New Staff

Brandi Brennan joins Lincoln Junior High as their new Choir Director. She is a graduate of Manchester College. Brandi and her husband, Jason, have two children, Joseph (10 yrs old) and Brooklyn (2 yrs old).

Brandi is impressed with Plymouth’s high sense of community and looks forward to working with the wonderful staff at Lincoln Junior High.

Corrected Kindergarten Schedule for Parent Teacher Conferences

The kindergarten schedule for parent teacher conferences was incorrect in an earlier post.

The schedule is as follows:

Oct. 16 - Normal schedule for AM/PM Kindergarten (Parent Teacher Conferences in the evening)

Oct. 17 - Normal schedule for AM/PM Kindergarten (Parent Teacher Conferences in the evening)

Oct. 18 - AM Kindergarten only goes to school.....PM Kindergarten does not go to school

Oct. 19 - PM Kindergarten only goes to school.....AM Kindergarten does not go to school

Oct. 20 - No School - Fall Break

2006-2007 New Staff

Kendall Hoover is our new 4th grade teacher at Washington Elementary. She is a graduate of Creighton. Her husband, Dave, grew up in Plymouth. Kendall has been a Plymouth resident for 14 years.

Kendall believes Plymouth Schools and Plymouth teachers are incredibly strong. She is extremely proud to live in Plymouth and now teach for Plymouth Schools.

2006-2007 New Staff

Jyll Shemberger is the new FACS teacher for Plymouth High School. She is a graduate of Ball State. Jyll and her husband, Will, have been married for two years.

Jyll is looking forward to sharing her enthusiasm for Family and Consumer Science with the high school students in her classroom.

Improving the Equity Gap

Douglas Reeves, noted scholar and researcher, has identified the following strategies for closing the equity gap:

1. “Treat them like they are rich” – We don’t let rich kids fail. Rich kids have high expectations, intensive assistance, and immediate intervention when they are in trouble, and every student from every ethnic and socioeconomic group deserves the same.
2. Equity is not equal – Equity is meeting the needs of each individual student.
3. Challenge, not sympathy – Listen to the elders of every culture. They do not ask for sympathy. They demand challenge and a chance for their children and grandchildren to have a better opportunity and greater achievement than previous generations.
4. The “culture of success” for every student – Define what successful students and adults do and then model these successful behaviors and insist on them every day in every setting.
5. Time and project management – Keys to effective self-discipline.
6. Balanced extrinsic and intrinsic motivation – Yes, it really is OK to reward students for great academic performance and superior behavior.
7. Resilience – Multiple opportunities for success. When students are playing sports, we tell them “It’s not how you start the season that counts, but how you finish.” We encourage them to rebound from every disappointment and failure. Great scientists, mathematicians, writers, and readers do the same.
8. Appropriate consequences – The consequence for failing to turn in work is neither a zero nor an F, but the appropriate consequence is DOING THE WORK.
9. Nonfiction writing – One of the best ways for students to engage in the lifelong skills of thinking, reasoning, and analysis. Specifically students at every grade level must write to inform, persuade, and analyze.
10. Relentless teachers – The refrain of teachers and leaders who close the equity gap is, “We just don’t let our kids fail.”
How do we match up?

2006-2007 New Staff

John Premetz is our new 5th grade science teacher for Riverside Intermediate. John graduated from Saint Joseph’s College. John is married to his wife Beth. They have two goats and a dog.

John is looking forward to teaching 5th grade. He is excited to be in Plymouth.

All-Day Kindergarten

Members of the Education Roundtable are discussing the merits of all-day kindergarten. What do you think of the concept?

2006-2007 New Staff

Angela Mills is our new Title I/Reading Coach at Menominee. She is a graduate of Indiana University. Angela has a B.S. in Elementary Education with a Reading Minor.

Angela is looking forward to the opportunity to help all students become better readers.

Blog Bits

Congratulations Jane Nelson

Jane Nelson was inducted into the Indiana High School Forensic Association Hall of Fame Friday evening in Indianapolis. Jane, in her 12th year of coaching high school speech, has been a part of 9 State Championship teams, numerous state champions, and nearly 40 national finalists. She is also a member of the Plymouth High School Speech Hall of Fame for her accomplishments as a student. Jane is the fourth Plymouth coach to be inducted into the IHSFA Hall of Fame. Dan Tyree, Charlotte Tyree, and Dave McKenzie are also members.

Thank You

The new drop-off procedures at Jefferson Elementary went very well this morning. The traffic at Klinger and Fairbanks was minimal. Thank you for your cooperation!

2006-2007 New Staff

Alyssa VanVactor is our new 2nd grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary. She is a graduate of Ball State. Her husband, Jeff, works with his father at the family business, VanVactor Construction. Alyssa and Jeff also have a dog named Chaney.

Alyssa is eager to learn more about the community and school corporation. She also looks forward to meeting her students and their parents.

2006-2007 New Staff

Allison Hargrove joins Plymouth High School as a new Social Studies teacher. She is a graduate of Purdue University. Allison and her husband, Michael reside in Warsaw. Michael is a police officer. They also have a Bassett hound named Molly.

Allison is looking forward to growing and learning as a teacher for Plymouth. Plymouth is a fantastic school that places true value upon academics.

Blog Bits

School Delay and Closure Announcements
School delays and Closures are made on the following stations:
WNDV (V93) 92.9 FM
WKVI 99.3 FM
WTCA 1050 AM
WZOC 94.3 FM
WNDU TV Channel 16
WSBT TV Channel 22
Please note: Channel 16 was notified at 5:45 AM and did not make an announcement until after 8:00 AM this morning.

Alternative Kindergarten Schedule
When there are delays, kindergarten students are required to attend school. The following schedule will be used on those days:

1 hour delay—Schedule as is
2 hour delay—AM (10AM-12PM)
PM (1-3PM)

In-Service Days—AM (8:15-10:15AM)
PM (10:20-12:20PM)
Parent/Teacher Conference Days:
Day 1: AM Kindergarten only goes to school…PM Kindergarten
does not go to school
Day 2: PM Kindergarten only goes to school...AM Kindergarten
does not go to school
Day 3: AM Kindergarten only goes to school…PM Kindergarten
does not go to school
Day 4: PM Kindergarten only goes to school…AM Kindergarten
does not go to school

Fog Delay

Plymouth Schools is on a 2 hour fog delay. Kindergarten will be on a special schedule today.

2006-2007 New Staff

Michael Dunn is the new principal of Menominee Elementary. He is a graduate of IU Northwest. He holds a Master’s degree.

Michael is excited to be in Plymouth. He is looking forward to working with the staff of Menominee.

Blog Bits

Construction Updates
The rain has slowed construction on the Elm Street extension. The installation of curbs, gutters, and sidewalks is now pushed back one to two weeks depending on the weather, Paving of the street and remaining parking lot will take place shortly thereafter.
The carpet is installed in the media center. Contractors will begin working on the casework next week, The carpet will be instated m the music room tomorrow,

The rehabilitation of the Soccerplex will be completed as soon as weather permits.

At PHS, the gymnasium will be Available as soon as the railings are installed. This is scheduled to take place next week.

Thank You
Thank you for your patience during construction.

Bus Route Adjustments
The transportation department will continue to make adjustments in routes to balance busloads. If you have any questions, please contact Rick Scott (936-3115).

The full day kindergarten and ENL mid-day routes will begin next Wednesday.

2006-2007 New Staff

Bob Remenih is the new principal at Jefferson Elementary. He is a graduate of IUSB. Bob is married to Mary Ann.

Bob is looking forward to working in Plymouth because it is a wonderful community with great people.

2006-2007 New Staff

Elizabeth Ratliff joins our administrative staff at Plymouth High School as our new Assistant Principal. She is a graduate of University of Phoenix Western Pacific. Elizabeth and her husband Charles have a daughter, Rebecca. Charles is also a teacher for Plymouth Community School Corporation.

Elizabeth is a native of Indiana. She loves the town of Plymouth.
Elizabeth has extended family throughout Starke, Pulaski, and Marshall counties.

2006-2007 New Staff

Blog bits
New Staff

Carrie McGuire is the new principal for Webster Elementary. She is a graduate of Purdue University and received her Masters from IPFW. Carrie and her husband, Mike, have two children, Lee Ann and Logan.

Carrie is looking forward to working for Plymouth. Plymouth has a reputation for its dedication to students and the educational process.

Blog Bits

Board of Trustee Highlights
The Board of Trustees met in regular session last evening. In addition to their regular business, the board:
-established the transfer tuition rates for the 2006-2007 school year. Those rates are $223 per month for students in grades 4-12; $165 per month for K-3.
-appointed Eleanor Danielson to the corporation Wellness Committee.
-granted approval for the Blueberry Festival committee to conduct the Hot Air Affair balloon launch at Riverside Intermediate School,
-approved a transfer tuition student, conducted hearings of the 2007 budget, the 2007 capital projects plan, and the 2007 bus replacement plan,
-authorized Elizabeth Ratliff and Carrie McGuire as signatures on school bank accounts,
-and reviewed donation reports.

The next regular board meeting will be held September 7, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. in the board room. On the agenda will be consideration of the 2007 budget, the 2007 capital projects plan and the 2007 bus replacement plan. The board will hold an executive work session with Dr. Ron Barnes following the regular meeting.


Facility Update
Three areas were not available at the new Menominee school on opening day:
- the media center (the ceiling pads are being installed, the floor area will be cleaned, carpet will be installed with the installation of book cases to follow).
-the music room (the contractors are currently installing the sound deflectors with the installation of carpet to follow).
- the gymnasium(the contractors are installing bleachers. The gym should be available in another week).

Over the weekend, carpet will be installed in the hallways. Weather permitting. the construction of the extension of Elm Street will continue next week with the installation of sidewalks, curbs, and paving.

At the Soccerplex, the contractors have removed the top soil and sand base in preparation for rehabilitating the field.


The Opening of School
Due to the hard work of the teaching staff, custodians, transportation staff, cooks, assistance from parents, relatives, and PTO members, the school year has gotten off to a very good start. During the next two week period, continual adjustments will be made to the bus routes.

Preliminary enrollments at the end of the second day:
Kindergarten-314
Grade 1 – 269
Grade 2 – 269
Grade 3 – 265
Grade 4 – 284
Grade 5 – 266
Grade 6 – 277
Grade 7 – 245
Grade 8 – 292
Grade 9 – 302
Grade 10 – 243
Grade 11 – 261
Grade 12 – 266

Total preliminary enrollment – 3,553 students. This number will decrease as no-shows are removed from the rolls. The official count day is the third Friday in September. For some comparison, the enrollment on count day 2005 was 3,457.

The Neglected R

Recently, Purdue University sponsored a Writing Summit for the top 100 experts in writing in the state of Indiana entitled "The Neglected R". The summit was by invitation only and Plymouth Schools had three attendees. Anne Liechty, Kathy Richter and Dan Tyree were heavily involved in the day-long summit. Other attendees were from Purdue University, Indiana University, Ivy Tech, Indiana Department of Education, Indiana Arts Council, various Indiana Service Centers, and other high schools throughout Indiana.

Topics covered included the following: Believes about Writing Instruction, Effective P-16 Writing Practices, Expectations for Graduating High School Students, Writing across the Curriculum, Pre-service Education for Future Teachers, Effective Professional Development, Writing Assessment Data, and Writing Digitally.

It was quite clear that Plymouth Schools are ahead of most schools in the state as we are not only turning out students who are comfortable in technical writing and college writing situations. Plymouth teachers deserve a pat on the back for the hard work it has taken to implement a K-12 writing program.

Plymouth attendees made important new contacts that will help provide the necessary network to turn out students capable of meeting and exceeding the expectations of Indiana’s universities and Ivy Tech.

Shakescenes at Notre Dame

Regina Warren, Lincoln Junior High Drama Director, took eight students to the Notre Dame Shakespeare Festival Sunday, August 13. The students performed a 15 minute scene from Romeo and Juliet. The students also took part in three workshops, and watched the last dress rehearsal of Notre Dame’s summer Shakespeare show.

Ready for School?

An article on the Indianapolis Star's editorial page discusses the role of parents in preparing students for school. What is your opinion?

Blog Bits

We thank all the school employees and volunteers who assisted with registration at the elementaries and Riverside. The turnout was heavy. We have many new students. The principals are following up on no shows. For those who filled out Preference Forms, the meeting is scheduled for the afternoon of August 8th to review the forms. A principal will be getting in contact with parents letting them know of the decision shortly thereafter.

The contractors at Menominee have done a wonderful job of getting the building available for registration. Carpeting is being laid in the hallways and instructional areas. The finish work on the cabinetry in the instructional areas is in progress. Teachers will be able to work in their classrooms no later than August 14th. School will open on August 16th for students.

Blog Bits 07-31-06

We are back! We have taken most of the summer off from communicating on the blog. As the beginning of school approaches, we will be writing regularly to update everyone on the events and issues impacting the school district.

Construction
Over the weekend, contractors installed the binder coat for the driveway and main parking lot at the new Menominee school. The office area is nearly completed and the new office furniture is installed. The cabinetry and carpeting is currently being installed in the classrooms. Furniture is scheduled to be delivered during the next 10 days. We expect school to open on time.

Registration will be restricted to the office and main entry at Menominee. Please see the information below for dates and times.

Registration
Registration for elementary and intermediate school will be taking place on: August 2 and 3.
August 2nd 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. / 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. / 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
August 3rd 11:00 am to 3:00 p.m. / 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

If you have questions about bus routes, please contact school officials during registration or call the transportation office and ask for Rick Scott at 574-936-3115.

Wellness Plan
Our district has worked very hard at designing the required wellness plan. Implementation will begin with registration. Information sheets will be available for parents at the elementary, intermediate, and junior high schools, and for parents and students at Plymouth High School. The board will be appointing a Wellness Advisory Committee at their meeting this evening. One of the committee’s functions will be to constantly review the implementation of the wellness policy.

Walking Areas
As part of the legislation that requires district to adopt wellness policies, each school district is to encourage students to walk and/or ride bicycles to school. The Plymouth Community School Corporation has always had walking areas assigned to each building. With the redistricting and with the construction of the new Menominee school, those walking areas have been revised. The maps for those walking areas are below. For those students who are riding bikes to school, we encourage students to lock the bicycle to the bike rack.

Please use link to website to view walking areas.
http://www.updatesoftware.com/plymouth/?cat=225&Type=0&sec=0&ssec=0

New Staff Members
Plymouth Community School Corporation will have over 25 new staff members as the school year begins. In our blog a new staff member will be featured daily. Last week the new staff members participated in an induction program. As part of that program, they learned about the procedures in their home buildings and corporation procedures. Many hours have been spent in the selection of new staff and we are extremely pleased with the new members who will be joining us.

First Student Day
Our first student day is August 16, 2006.

George "Galileo" Cox

The Plymouth School Corporation is proud to have a staff member's product for sale in the Sargent-Welch 2006 Catalogue. A long-time science teacher at Lincoln Junior High, George Cox recently announced that his invention entitled "Galileo's Experiment Apparatus" can be found on sale now at http://www.sargentwelch.com/product.asp?pn=WL0855&ss=wl085//. Cox has used the device for demonstration purposes in his 8th grade science class.
Mr. Cox expects another invention, "Mystery Springs" to be on sale soon. He also expects to receive a patent on the Galileo invention in the near future. He has been invited to demonstrate these inventions at the state science teacher's conference to be held during the 2006-07 school year.

Class Happenings

Tara Sharp has developed a new blog for her classes at Riverside. Double-click Class Happenings to the right to access the blog.

Blog Bits

Student Awards
It was a pleasure for both of us to attend the high school student award program last Monday and see the large number of students who have received both monetary and recognition awards. Congratulations to all of those award winners and a special thank you to all the patrons and community organizations that contribute to the various scholarship funds in our community. We are blessed.


Construction Update
At Jefferson Elementary the site work has been completed. The base asphalt coat has been installed on the playground. The cement workers have been notified to mobilize and install sidewalks and stoops. The exterior wall panels are now in production. The aluminum entry systems are in fabrication. The classroom vinyl tile and carpet has been installed. The hallway carpets will be installed upon completion of the parking lot. Construction Control and the architect have created the first punch list and distributed it to contractors. Final clean-up at the Jefferson site is projected for June 5th.

At the new Menominee, contractors are mobilized to begin site work on the floor for the mechanical enclosure throughout the building has been poured. The cement on the gym floor is being ground in preparation for the installation of wood flooring. The media center stoop is in place. The vestibule at the main entry to the building will be poured after the installation of the roofing material. The masons have completed the work in the special needs area. The window openings have been in-filled. The sealing of the brick is underway. The new sign base along Discovery Lane has been completed. The stairs to the mezzanine in section B will be installed this week. The doors and hardware are on site for future installation. The basketball backstops have been installed in the gym and the trim for the second floor display boards is being installed. The installation of the metal wall panels above and below the windows has begun. The ceramic tile has been completed in the kitchen area, the restroom area off the commons, and the restroom on the second floor of the instructional wing. Contractors are now installing tile in the first floor restroom.

The carpet and vinyl floor covering for the building is in transport and the installation will start shortly, in the Kindergarten rooms. The installation of carpeting in the hallways will be held until all sidewalks coming into the building have been completed. The sound panels above the stage have been installed. The wood floor installation in the gymnasium is scheduled for the month of June. The walk-in cooler/freezer installation is near complete. Kitchen equipment has arrived and has been installed.

The next delivery of casework will be in June for the special needs area. The delivery of the casework for the instructional area is scheduled for July. The temp specs heating and air conditioning room units have been installed in Unit A. The units have been set in Unit B. The installation of the air handling units in the mezzanine area in Section B will take place next week. The cable tray system in the building has been completely installed. The light fixtures are 90% installed in Unit A. The wire has been pulled in the second floor of the instructional wing and installation of light fixtures will follow. The installation of ceiling grid which is currently taking place on the second floor.

A tour for the Menominee staff will be held at 3:15 on Friday afternoon. Other staff members are welcome to attend.

Head custodians and building principals are reviewing punch list items at Webster, Washington, Lincoln, and Plymouth High School. That review will be forwarded to Construction Control.

At Plymouth High School the installation of the equipment in the TV studio is underway. Projected finish date is early June. The demolition of the bleachers in the main gym will begin next Tuesday or Wednesday.


Soccerplex
Work on the rehabilitation of the soccerplex is scheduled to begin in late June or early July. Seeding will take place during the first two weeks of August. During this season, home games will be played either on the practice field or at Lincoln Junior High.


Thank You
All members of our staff have worked extremely hard this year to provide quality services to our students. Each building re-wrote its School Improvement Plan for the next three-year period and has prepared for a site visit from the North Central Association people next fall. The elementary staff has sequenced the topics to be taught in Language Arts and mathematics and has piloted benchmark tests to track the growth of our students. A reading initiative has been implemented for the second year at the elementary level. A reading initiative is also underway in the junior high and the high school. In addition to all of this work, staff members have been planning for the moves between and among the buildings. Many staff members have spent countless hours before and after school in preparation and in service to our students. We express our appreciation to all staff members for their efforts during the past year and hope that they have a relaxing and refreshing summer.

Blog Bits

Teacher Appreciation Week
The week of May 8 is Teacher Appreciation Week. If you have an opportunity, please let a current teacher of your children or one of your former teachers know how much you appreciate what they have done for you or for your children.

Tomorrow evening, the corporation will be holding its annual Teacher Appreciation Dinner from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. at Washington Elementary. At 4:45, students under the direction of Mary Pat Glaub will provide entertainment. Awards will be presented to retirees after the entertainment.


JESSE ABCD Awards – April 27th
JESSE held it’s Above and Beyond the Call of Duty banquet at Christo’s Banquet Center. Persons from each school district were honored for their efforts with the children of the co-op. Plymouth’s honoree this year was Meg Schnieders from Webster Elementary. Meg was nominated by Donna Burroughs. Congratulations and thanks to Meg for all the work that she has provided to the students at Webster.


Construction Update
Site work is being completed at Jefferson. At the new Menominee, the cabinetry and lighting has been completed in all of the Kindergarten rooms and art room. Ceramic tile has been installed in the kitchen area and the restrooms in the commons area. Block fill has been completed in the upper floor of the instructional wing. Some of the rooms in the office area have been wallpapered. Non supporting walls are being constructed in the Special Education suite. The oak framework for the tag boards in the Kindergarten rooms and commons area have been installed. The next construction meeting is Thursday, May 12th.

Thank You Marshall County Community Foundation

The Marshall County Community Foundation awarded a grant of $2400 to Plymouth Community School Corporation to purchase a special evacuation chair for safely moving persons in a wheelchair down a staircase in an emergency. Thank you to the Foundation and to Kelly Skirvin who completed the grant application.

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School Board Meeting
The Board of Trustees met in regular session on April 20, 2006. In addition to its regular business, the board: Heard a report on the School Improvement Plan at Webster Elementary from Donna Burroughs. Reviewed the elementary, junior high, and high school handbooks. The next board meeting will be on May 11th. The board will meet in Executive Session to conduct interviews at 5:00 p.m. with the open board meeting to commence at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the board room

Construction Update
Jefferson Elementary site work is scheduled to begin this week. Once the sidewalks and pavement have been installed, the carpeting in the building will be installed.

At the new Menominee Elementary, all cement floors are now in place. The building is entirely under roof. The stairways connecting the first and second floors at the south end of the instructional wing are installed and in use. Casework installation is underway in the north wing of the building. Plumbers, electricians, and sheet metal workers continue the installation of their respective equipment. The laborer’s union has established informational pickets against Hagerman Construction at the site. The other trades are continuing their work.

Soccerplex
The bids for the rehabilitation of the soccerplex are due at the administration office on May 8th.

Fog Delay

Due to the fog, Plymouth Community Schools will be on a 2 hour delay this morning.

Blog Bits

Board Update
The Board of Trustees met in regular session on April 6, 2006. In addition to its regular business, the Board:
Heard a report on the planning for activities at Riverside Elementary from Mrs. Burroughs.
Reviewed the Intermediate School handbook.
Appointed Rick Ruud and John Hill to the Wage Committee.


Construction Update
The contractors continue to address items on the punch list at Webster, Washington, Lincoln, and Plymouth High School. Payments to contractors at those locations are now being held until punch list items have been completed.

At Riverside Intermediate School, there is some seeding that will be completed during the spring season. Signage will be installed over the front door.

At Jefferson Elementary, casework and the H-vac system has been installed. Ceiling grids are in place with the new light fixtures installed. The ceiling pads will be installed during the next two weeks. The building is ready for carpet. The installation of the carpet will be put on hold until sidewalks into the new area are installed.

At the new Menominee, the second floor masonry work in the instructional area has been completed. Masons are now focusing on the main entrance canopy and the canopy located by the dining room. The veneer brick on the east elevation has been completed. The stairway for the instructional area was delivered during the week of April 10. The basketball backstops will be delivered for the gym the week of April 17th. The entire building is now under roof. The parapet and counter flashing materials were delivered on the 3rd of April. Installation will begin next week. Panel deliveries will take place at the end of April. The installation of the dining room windows has begun. The installation of ceramic tile in the kitchen and restroom areas began on April 10. Ceiling grids have been installed in the art room and four kindergarten rooms and kitchen area. The gypsum board has been installed in the office area. The hood for the kitchen area was delivered on 4-13. The unit ventilators for the building are scheduled for delivery on April 17th. Case work was delivered for the art room, kindergarten rooms, and office area during the week of 4-10. The Unit A lights and wiring are 90% complete. The lights are installed in the gymnasium area.

Riverside PTO
The next organizational meeting of the Riverside PTO will be on Tuesday evening, April 25th at 6:30 p.m. at Webster Elementary. That evening, members will elect officers. Anyone interested in becoming an office in the Riverside PTO should plan to attend.


Webster Celebration
On April 7, the Webster staff celebrated being selected earning 4-Star school status for two years and nomination as a national Blue Ribbon school. Congratulations to the Webster staff on those outstanding achievements.

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NCA Conference
April 2, 3, and 4, 2006, 10 teachers and administrators from Plymouth Community Schools attended the NCA national conference in Chicago, Illinois.

The attendees had a choice to attend over 100 sessions on problem solving, writing, reading, and various other school improvement sessions.

As always, the teachers and administrators came back with helpful ideas to use for the school’s improvement plans.


Problem Solving Summit
On Thursday, April 6th, 20 principals and staff members held the first annual Problem Solving Summit.

A full day of research and discussion led to a consensus on the following. What should problem solving look like in Plymouth Schools for the next four years? What instructional strategies need to be made to make ourselves better teachers and make our students better problem solvers? How do teachers and administrators establish an accountability system for the professional staff as they work towards problem solving skills? What formative assessment and formative data should be completed in order to focus on improving problem solving skills? And finally, what summative assessment and summative data should be used to show the gains that we will make in the next four years?

The schools now have clearly defined parameters to take back to their committees and complete the school improvement plan for problem solving.


Marshall County Home Show
Over the weekend, thousands of people enjoyed the Marshall County Home Show in the Plymouth High School’s multi-purpose room. This is the first major event to take place in the multi-purpose room and we hope this area will be used by the community many times over.


Dinner and Play
On Saturday night, nearly 100 people enjoyed Alpha Delta Rho’s madrigal dinner and play. The Crimson Connection sang and those who were in attendance were welcome to a tremendous meal and well-written and well-acted play. Hats off to Alpha Delta Rho and the Crimson Connection.


Crimson Connection
And finally, Sunday afternoon, a large contingent watched the Crimson Connection sing in their last concert of the year. Mrs. Glaub said a tearful goodbye to her seniors in the chorus and the crowd was treated to an excellent concert. This may be the last concert for the year but we look forward to what the Crimson Connection brings us next year.

Blog Bits

Welcome back! We hope you had a relaxing spring break.

Health Savings Accounts
Some employees have asked if we have a Health Savings Account (HAS) program. We do not have an HSA program at this time. MASE has an insurance option that qualifies for a HAS program.

The district is exploring the possibility of an HAS with PEA. The following link: Health Savings Account Answers , has information regarding the concept.


Special Education Pre-School Payments
We were informed this week, by the Department of Education, that the pre-school program costs for distribution are $15,768,551 for the entire State of Indiana. The State of Indiana has only appropriated $11,315,435 resulting in a deficiency of $4,453,120. The Pre-Special Education payment to each school district will be reduced by $325.59 per pre-school student. The JESSE Board faces the challenge of providing services with reduced resources. It seems to us that discussions at the state level might be better focused on the neediest of our children rather than some of the topics that were in the spotlight.

New High School Course and Credit Requirements
The Indiana State Board of Education has adopted new course and credit requirements for earning a high school diploma. These new requirements go into effect for students entering high school in the fall of 2006. The State Department of Education has prepared a FAQ regarding this topic. The Frequently Asked Questions link is a valuable resource for parents.

Blog Bits

Congratulations
Our speech team has done it again! They are state champs in Division II. Thank you to all the team members, Dave McKenzie, Jane Nelson, and Charlotte Tyree for bringing home the trophy.


For Your Reading
Spring break has provided a time for us to do some reading. We recommend the following for your consideration:

Our Endangered Values is an interesting read on former president Jimmy Carter. The book reviews today’s events in light of those values that are part of our heritage.

A Team of Rivals by Doris Kerns-Goodwin details the presidential campaign of Abraham Lincoln and those who ran against him. This documentary uses excerpts from newspapers, diaries, and letters to show the inter-workings of Lincoln’s cabinet and the struggles he endured with his Generals.

Daniel Pink has written an interesting book called A Whole New Mind. Pink describes the movement from the informational age to the conceptual age and its implications for preparing ourselves and our students for work in the future.


Legislature
The legislature has passed several bills during the last session that relate to schools. The following is the summary of changes:

When parents have joint custody of a child and live in different school districts, they may choose which district the child can attend school tuition free. This decision must be made 14 days before the first day of school. The law becomes effective July 1, 2006.

The percentage and the definition of a qualifying school has been lowered from 25% to 15% beginning July 1, 2007 for the purposes of offering the school breakfast program.

School districts are now required to establish a coordinated health advisory council to develop a local wellness policy. Our district is ahead of this requirement.

School districts will now have official counts in September, December, and May of each year under Senate Bill 173.

For those who drive our white busses, Senate Bill 305 requires that the bus may not be operated at greater than 55 miles per hour and that the emergency exit or exit windows may not be obstructed. This bill becomes effective July 1, 2006.

High schools will now have to offer a minimum number of advanced placement classes and dual credit classes.

Possessing a knife on school property or on the school bus is now a Class B Misdemeanor.

The Department of Education and State Board of Education is to conduct a review of the state-wide student testing program and develop a long-term plan for student testing. This must be completed by November 1, 2006.

House Bill 1347 raises the drop out age to 18 unless a student can prove financial hardship, illness, or may drop out via a court order.

Blog Bits

The 6th graders donated $1,284.41 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital this week by participating in the St. Jude Math-athon. This is the third time Lincoln 6th graders have participated. The 6th graders have collected a total of $6,836.81 in donations for research. The students are not only applying their math skills but they are learning to be in service to the needy. A special thank you to Marilyn Drang and Tara Sharp for organizing and sponsoring this event.

Congratulations to Becca Schafer for being in the state finals in the Farm Bureau eXcel awards. The judges found her 2D art project “Wait ‘till Your Father Gets Home” to be among the top ten submissions in the state. The theme this year was “perceptions.” Becca will be invited to present her project at the state finals in Indianapolis. Over the last 13 years, PHS has had two finalists in music, one in writing, and two in art. We wish Becca the best. Thank you to Mark Wagner and Kim Hassett for their efforts.

Have a relaxing Spring Break!!

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Board Highlights
The Board of Trustees met in regular session on March 16, 2006 at Lincoln Jr. High. In addition to the regular business, the board:
-Heard a report from John McNeil and Jeni Hirschy on implementation of the School Improvement Plan at Lincoln Jr. High.
-Heard a report focusing on the overall organization of the JESSE Co-op and the inclusion initiative given by Mary Kay Davis and Bob Weis.
-Adopted an amendment to the 403B Plan that increases the number of persons for a new vendor from 10 employees to 10% of the employees.
-Adopted a resolution to void outstanding checks that have not been cashed for a two-year period.
-Approved an RFP from Esco Communications for the new equipment for the TV studio.
-Approved a change order to replace the bleachers in the Plymouth High School gymnasium. The bleachers that have been repaired several times over the past 10 years are currently 30 years of age; the replacement will also bring the bleachers up to current American Disabilities Act codes.

Student Successes
Business Professionals of America will be sending students to the National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida. Members qualifying for the national event are:
Website Development Team - Michael Brown, Kreigh Hirschy, Mat Keller, Brandon Witmire.
The Administrative Support Team - Allison Menser, John Montgomery, and Even Skirvin.
Extemporaneous Speech and Fundamental Accounting - Matthew Tinsley.

Other students are eligible to attend the National Leadership Conference are:
Global Marketing Team - Erin Dunning, Alysson Neidlinger, and Nathan Pearson
Graphic Design Promotion - Lora Bingle
Banking & Finance – Jeneane Cole
Fundamental Accounting – Sam Faulstich


Speech Team
Our speech team has qualified all team members for the state contest to be held this coming weekend. During the past weekend, six students qualified for nationals at the contest held at the Plymouth High School.


Plymouth Boys Basketball
We are extremely proud of the basketball team who represented our community at the Semi-state last Saturday in Lafayette.


Growing Up Digital
This morning’s South Bend Tribune had an article that talked about students growing up digitally and the need to teach them differently.. Dan Tapscott has also written a book Growing up Digital that gives a thorough explanation of this phenomenon.

Semi State Ticket Information

Tickets go on sale as follows:

Tuesday, March 14, after 1:00 - parents of players, cheerleaders and managers
High school students - season ticket holders only.

Wednesday, March 15, 3:30 - 4:30 - Plymouth Community School Corp. employees
SEASON TICKET HOLDERS ONLY!!!! If you do not
have a season ticket-you purchase your tickets
on Thursday.
5:00 - 7:00 - season tickets holders only

Thursday, March 16, - 8:00 - 4:00 - non-season tickets holders

THE PILGRIMS PLAY JAY COUNTY AT LAFAYETTE JEFF AT 3:45pm. The game will not start before this time.

Regional Champs!!!!!!

Congratulations to our Plymouth Pilgrims, regional champs! Not only did the team take the prize, they demonstrated the values of effort, preparation, and that never-die attitude. Thank you to the players and coaching staff for a job well done. We wish you the best at the semi-state.

Blog Bits

Riverside PTO
An organizational meeting for the Riverside PTO will be held on Tuesday, March 14, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. at Webster Elementary School. All parents of current 4th and 5th grade students of the Plymouth Elementary Schools are invited to attend. The purpose is to begin organizing a PTO for the Riverside Intermediate School.


Signs
Contractors have begun the installation of signage. Each of the buildings entrances will have a number. This is being done for security and informational purposes. The parking areas at Plymouth High School are also numbered and are coordinated with the entrance numbers. This process will continue through next week.


Marshall County Healthy Living Coalition
Marshall County Healthy Living Coalition has announced its six week winners. The team who has averaged the greatest weight loss and lost the most weight in the county-wide contest is The Lincoln Lightweights by losing 100.5 lbs. in six weeks with an average of 10.05 lbs. per person. Quicks Lanes has donated one bowling game free, including shoe rental for each team member. Congratulations!

The team who clocked the most minutes of exercise was the Washington Elementary Biggest Losers with 13,592 minutes of exercise in six weeks which averages 31.64 hours of exercise per person in the six week period. Mickey Beam, personal fitness trainer at Fitness Forum, has donated ½ hour personal training session to each team member.

The Lincoln Junior High 400 meter track is open for public walking. Week day hours of available are before 8:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and after 5:00 p.m. except on the nights of track meets.

Blog Bits

Congratulations

Congratulations to the Pilgrim basketball team for bringing home the sectional championship. The Pilgrims will play Western next Saturday at noon at the Plymouth regional.


Parent Academy Seminar

March 16, 2006 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Plymouth High School will be holding a Trimester 3 open house and a parent informational seminar.

6:00 to 6:30 p.m. - Registration
Parents will be provided free food at the Red Rock Café

6:30 to 8:35 p.m. – Informational Sessions
Parents are invited to attend break-out sessions or teacher sessions. During the break-out sessions, Mr. Tyree will explain the Plymouth Community School wellness policy.

There will be a break-out session on the In-Touch computer system. Parents of high school students now have access to student information. Mrs. Kim Pulliam will be showing parents how to use this system and what information is available to parents.

Norma Rodriguez, the ELL Coordinator for Plymouth Community Schools will preside in a break-out session on academic services that are available to ELL students.

Mr. Mark Ringenberg, Plymouth resident and employee of College Board will discuss basic information pertaining to college admissions and financial aid.

Ms. Jenny Kesler and Ms. Vicki Ley from The Bowen Center will present information about some signs and symptoms of substance abuse.


In addition, parents are encouraged to attend a session with the instructors of their children.

Thank you to Mr. Tobias and the staff who are planning this innovative activity for our community.

Blog Bits

Congratulations
The Lilly Endowment has announced that Monty Peden has been named a Teacher Creative Fellow and will win a grant of $8,000 to learn to play the alphorn and explore Swiss heritage. "The Hornucopia of Switzerland" is the title of Monty’s project. Monty is the latest of many of our school family who received the fellowships.

Item of Interest
Sometimes our expectations of children fall short. Click here for an inspiring story of a student manager who puts in an inspiring performance the last game of the season.

The new Menominee School
The workers continue to move forward at the site. The kitchen/food serving area and dishwashing area have all received a second coat of paint. Drywall has been applied to the bulkheads in the dining room and the commons area. The framing of walls in the office areas and media center has begun. The installation of windows continues. Cement pour is scheduled this week on the second floor of the south end of the building.

At all other sites, the signage will be installed next week.

Blog Bits

Board Meeting
The Board of Trustees met in regular session last evening at Jefferson Elementary. In addition to their regular business, the board adopted map B-2 for the elementary attendance districts. Mrs. Neidlinger gave a report on the Jefferson School Improvement Plan.

Summer school programs were approved for 2006. The high school’s first trimester will meet from May 30 through June 23rd. The second trimester from June 26th to July 24th. Courses will be offered in Economics, Government, History, Biology, Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Geometry, and Ag Experience. Lincoln Junior High summer school will be from July 28th to August 4th. The Junior High and High School Migrant Studies Program will be at that location along with 7th and 7th grade Intensive Math and 7th and 8th grade Remedial Math/Language Arts. The elementary program will be at Washington Elementary from July 28th through August 4th. The federal breakfast and lunch programs will be offered at both Lincoln and Washington.

Construction Update
The contractors are working on the punch lists for Webster, Washington, Riverside, Lincoln, and Plymouth High School. At Jefferson Elementary, the installation of the floor tile has begun in the restrooms and classroom areas. Casework will be installed over spring break. The installation of the carpeting will begin shortly thereafter.

At the new Menominee – cement pours continue in section A. In lower B, the soil is being prepared for a cement pour. In upper B, preparation of the metal deck will begin for a cement pour a week from today. The masons are in the process of rubbing walls for block filling and painting. Construction of interior walls continues. The closing up of the open area on the south side of the building will begin on Friday.

Change Orders
The board received a report for two change orders that have taken place during the last two weeks. Both change orders resulted in a $20,000 return of funds to the building corporation. The total cost of all change orders at this point for Phase I and Phase II is $22,094.80.

Loose Equipment Bids
The loose equipment bids were approved by the Board. The total amount of the low bids was $255,655. The estimated bid price was $343,165. The reverse auction process created a savings of $87,510 from the traditional bid process.

Congratulations
Congratulations to the high school girls’ basketball team for a successful season.

Congratulations to Tony Ross. At last Tuesday’s Culver Military/Plymouth home basketball game, Tony was presented the Distinguished Media Service award from the IHSAA. Along with the IHSAA, we appreciate Tony’s dedication to Plymouth High School athletics and his loyalty to Plymouth Community Schools.

Corrections

The Plan B-2 posting now contains the corrected demographic information. We apologize for the misinformation.

Blog Bits

Menominee PTO
On February 9th I had the pleasure of meeting with members of the Menominee PTO. The members shared those characteristics we should look for as the selection process for the new Menominee principal begins.

Those characteristics include:
-one who is available
-possesses integrity, initiation
-is friendly and is approachable
-a high-spirited person
-concerned about the health and safety of children
-willing to adhere to policies yet be flexible
-maintain rapport with parents and families
-gets along with staff members
-tries creative ideas
-not afraid of change
-willing to do something that is different
-maintains discipline in a positive and respectful way
-agrees but can disagree in the right way
-greets students outside the building in the morning
-knows the students
-will blend well with the rest of the staff
-has time management skills
-knows innovative ways of discipline
-sees every child as an individual
-is open-minded
-is not afraid to say something that needs to be said
-ability to work with parents
-involved in the various activities at school
-accessible to parents
-willing to have community involvement


Thank you to those persons who took the time to meet and discuss this important decision.


Congratulations
The Lady Pilgrims completed an outstanding season last weekend. The never-give-up attitude of our team is the result of the efforts of our coaching staff and the support of our community. Thank you for a great year!

Revised Plan B

Dr. McKibben has tweaked Plan B to decrease the size of Jefferson. The result is as follows:
Demographics for B-2

School/Students/ Hispanic Students /Median Household Income
Jefferson/ 312 /44/ $43,519
Menominee 347 /50 /$46,299
Washington 351/52/$43,769
Webster 337 /59/$47,421

Blog Bits

Board Highlights
The Board of Trustees met in regular session last evening at Plymouth High School. In addition to its regular business, the board conducted a hearing on redistricting. The majority of those patrons present favored Plan B. Concerns were expressed about the potential size of Jefferson.

The Board adopted the 2006-2007 school calendar.

August 15 First Teacher Day
August 16 First Student Day
September 4 Labor Day (Paid Day)
October 18-19 Student ½ Day
Parent/Teacher Conf.
October 20 Fall Break
November 1 In-service Day
November 23-24 Thanksgiving Break
December 1 In-service Day
December 25-Jan 5 Winter Break
January 17 In-service Day
February 16 In-service Day
February 19 President’s Day
March 6 In-service Day
March 26-30 Spring Break
April 6 Good Friday (snow make-up)
April 19 In-service Day
May 24 Last Day for Students
May 25 Last Teacher Day


The board employed ForeSight Engineering to serve as civil engineer for the rehabilitation of the Soccerplex.

The next board meeting will be at Jefferson Elementary on February 16, 2006 at 7:00 p.m.


Construction Update

Last Thursday and Friday at Webster, Washington, Lincoln and Plymouth High School, a walk-through was conducted by the construction manager and corporation administrators. The Punch Lists were updated. Contractors will begin concentration on those incomplete items or those items in need of correction.

At Riverside, the project is complete with the exception of the installation of white boards.

At Jefferson Elementary, the ceiling grids in the new edition have been installed. Light fixtures are now in place. The new fire alarm system has been completed. Windows in the new edition are installed. Carpeting and casework will arrive the first week of March. Painting will be completed during the next two-week period. Contractors are anticipating the delivery of the HVAC classroom units during the next month.

At the new Menominee, a major concrete pour in the Kindergarten and administrative area is scheduled to take place on Wednesday. The work on the roof over the western section of the building will take place as weather permits. Plumbing and electrical rough-ins continue throughout the building. Sheet metal work is in progress in the dining room, art, and kitchen areas. Bulkheads are under construction in the dining room and commons area. The windows for the building have been delivered. Installation of the windows will take place in the near future. Preparation for concrete pour #3 is underway. The masons are completing the brick veneer on the south side of the building and installing the non-supporting walls in section A.


Change Order Report
The change order report is as follows: At Plymouth High School there have been a total of 17 change orders for a cost of $42,685.29. At Webster, Washington, and Lincoln, there have been a total of 35 change orders for a cost of -$9,825.49. At Jefferson, Riverside, and new Menominee there have been seven change orders for a cost of $9,235.00

Student Wellness Programs

The Indianapolis Star continues the series on childhood obesity.

Blog Bits

Each school district in Indiana is required to develop a corporation wellness plan for students. A committee of staff members is currently involved in that effort. Information sessions will be scheduled with each PTO prior to the completion of the plan. The Indianapolis Star is running a series of articles which provide background for the requirement. Stay tuned for further updates.

Redistricting Update

The Board of Trustees will conduct a public redistricting hearing during the Monday, February 6th meeting at 7:00 PM in the Plymouth High School cafeteria. Dr. McKibben has prepared two scenarios which meet the goals of buildings of approximately the same size, socio-economic, and ethnic composition. Both of the plans are displayed below. The maps can be enlarged by double-clicking the illustration.

Redistricting Map A

Redistricting Map B

Please note the eastern boundary of the Webster district is US 31. A walking area bordered by nursery, South Michigan, and Oakhill is assigned to Webster. The zone area will be divided between Webster and Menominee to balance the buildings.

Missing Maps

The proposed re-districting maps are being e-mailed this evening. We apologize for the delay.

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Webster & Washington Elementary Schools
Congratulations to the Webster staff. Sue Ellen Reed announced yesterday that Webster has been named a 4-star school. This honor reflects the hard work of the staff, students, and parents of the Webster community. To be designated as a 4-star school, the school must be fully accredited, meet adequate yearly progress, and perform in the top 25% of all the schools in the state in each of the following four areas. Student attendance rates, mathematic proficiency scores, English/Language Arts proficiency scores, and the percent of students passing both English/Language Arts and mathematics.

Washington missed being named a 4-star school by .08 of a percent on the attendance rate. Congratulations to the Washington staff, students, and parents for their efforts.

Construction News
A walk-through is scheduled with the construction manager and administrators on Thursday. The process will begin at Plymouth High School and move through each of the Phase I buildings during the day. And if not completed on Thursday, then the process will continue on Friday. The purpose of the walk-through is to compare actual work with punch list completion items that have been reported and add or delete to the punch list.

On February 7th, bidders will be taking part in a reverse on-line auction for the educational equipment for Riverside and the new Menominee schools. On February 21st, the district will be receiving requests for proposals for the equipment in the television studio at Plymouth High School.

Blogging with our local representative

Steve Heim, who represents our district in the General Assembly's House of Representatives, has established a blog to enhance communication with his constituency. We encourage you to read Steve's blog regularly and communicate your concerns or words of encouragement. A link to the blog is located to the right of this article.

Cooperative Purchasing

There are two bills in the Indiana General Assembly that directly encourage Indiana schools to do more in the area of cooperative purchasing. Portions of these bills enable schools to build upon past cooperative purchasing efforts. Indiana Education Service Centers have been active in this arena by pooling resources with member districts and private schools for 25 years. Plymouth Community School Corporation has been an active member of the Northern Indiana Educational Services Center for 25 years. Through our association we have saved thousands of dollars on a yearly basis, not only through cooperative purchasing of equipment and materials, but through many other services and products. If we focus only on the cooperative purchasing done by our school corporation during the 2004-2005 school year, $96,472 in savings were achieved. These savings were made on items such as school buses, cafeteria food and supplies, waste removal, copy paper, light bulbs, carpeting, school furniture, and thousands of other items. Through NIESC we have access to a web based purchasing system that allows us to purchase thousands of materials at bid prices or at reduced catalog prices. Many of these items are on statewide or multi-state bids.

We have actively pursued these savings for years. A ten-year history would show savings approaching $572,178 for Plymouth Community School Corporation. Yearly savings have grown significantly as more opportunities have been added. While there are concepts found in HB 1006 and SB 323 that need continued work and clarification, the cooperative purchasing portions of the bill will enable Indiana schools to do even better and save more dollars to be used directly for instruction. That is what we have worked to do in the past and will continue to do in the future.

Board Highlights

The Board of Trustees met in regular session last evening at Menominee Elementary. In addition to its regular business, a report on the Menominee School Improvement Plan was given by Mrs. Kruger and Mrs. Durbin. They explained the results of the ISTEP+ and the interventions the staff at Menominee is undertaking to improve student achievement in that building.

Three new courses, Entrepreneurship, Peer Tutoring, and Beginning Orchestra, were approved at Plymouth High School.

The board accepted Conflict of Interest statements from board members and school administrators.

Dr. Hill gave a report on transfer students. This year there are 58 ½ students who are cash transfer-in or placement-in students. The district is paying the tuition for 17 students placed in settings outside the district.

Eric Wolfe, construction manager for the building project gave a report on the progress at the new Menominee building. The construction has been hampered by Mother Nature. High winds blew down a wall in December workers are battling muddy conditions. Mr. Wolfe presented a schedule that will result in the completion of the project in time to register students August 1st and open school on August 16th.

The next board will be held on Monday, February 6th at 7:00 p.m. in the Plymouth High School cafeteria. During that meeting a hearing on redistricting will be held.

Town Hall Meetings

On behalf of the Board, thank you very much for attending the Town Hall meetings. Dr. McKibben was able to garner valuable input that will be used in the design of two scenarios for Board consideration in February.

A special thank you is extended to Ed Rodriguez for serving as the interpreter for both sessions.

The new scenario maps will appear on the blog as soon as they are available. The target date is February 2nd.

Welcome to the Blogosphere!

Keep up-to-date with the Pilgrim boys' basketball team. Please double -click "Pilgrim's Basketball", located in the index to your right.

Latest Scenario with road names

Meeting with Webster PTO

I had an opportunity to meet with the Webster PTO last week. It is apparent that the strong PTO, along with the dedicated staff, has contributed to Webster’s success. We discussed redistricting and the selection of a new principal.

The PTO members shared the characteristics of a new principal as the search begins. Those characteristics included a person with elementary teacher or elementary experience,
-who cares about kids;
-who is willing to get experience;
-who is willing to search for opportunities for the building;
-who is someone like Donna;
-who will do the work;
-who is willing to keep some of the old but bring in new ideas;
-who is excited to work with the PTO;
-with high moral standards;
-with a calm demeanor;
-who is a good listener;
-who is flexible and willing to try new things;
-who will bring new ideas;
-with a diversified background;
-with some foreign language experience;
-who is a servant leaders;
-who is a nurturer

I wish to express a “thank you” to the members of the Webster PTO who took the time to be willing to share.

Prepared by John Hill.

6+1 Traits Writing Rubric

Students and parents will start seeing a new writing rubric in the next months. The 6 Trait s of Writing model was developed by researches from the Northwest Regional Education Laboratory in Portland, Oregon in the mid 1980’s. The +1 was added several years ago. The research-based writing assessment is designed to be comprehensive, reliable, and teacher and student friendly. Plymouth Schools adopted it because it provides teachers and students a researched-based rubric that uses common language from grades K-12.

The following is a brief definition of each trait.

1. Ideas: Ideas make up the content of the piece of writing – the heart of the message.

2. Organization: Organization is the internal structure of the piece, the thread of meaning, the logical pattern of the ideas.

3. Voice: Voice is the soul of the piece. It’s what makes the writer’s style singular, as his or her feelings and convictions come out through the work.

4. Word Choice: Word choice is at its best when it includes the use of rich, colorful, precise language that moves and enlightens the reader.

5. Sentence Fluency: Sentence fluency is the flow of the language, the sound of word patterns – the way the writing plays to the ear, not just the eye.

6. Conventions: Conventions represent the piece’s level of correctness – the extent to which the writer uses grammar and mechanics with precision.

+1. Presentation: Presentation zeros in on the form and layout – how pleasing the piece is to the eye.

To read more about this new writing assessment, visit the website for the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory at www.nwrel.org/assessment/department.php?d=1

Blog Bits

Board Highlights

The Board of Trustees met in regular session last evening.

In addition to its regular business, Todd Samuelson was elected board President for 2006. Frank Brubaker was selected as Vice President, and Ron Gifford was selected as Secretary.

Kandi Tinkey was appointed Treasurer, and Lori VanDerWeele as Deputy Treasurer.

Larry Pinkerton will be the board representative to the Student Advisory Committee.

Joe Morris was appointed legal counsel.

Ron Gifford was appointed as legislative liaison.

Frank Brubaker will be the board representative for the Student Services Committee.

A schedule for regular board meetings was adopted.

A report on ISTEP scores was presented by Mr. Tyree.


Employees in the Administrative Office

Kandi Tinkey is replacing Donna Mattix as the Corporation Treasurer.

Lori VanDerWeele has been transferred to Deputy Treasurer and will be in charge of payroll.

Wendy Haenes is the new receptionist.


Construction Update

Jefferson Elementary – the installation of the new fire alarm system was started over winter break. The shipment of windows for the new addition is scheduled for January 11th with installation on January 16th. The construction manager anticipates the installation of ceiling grid and overhead lights during the next two week period.

Plymouth High School – The floor surface is being installed in the multi-purpose room. Upon completion, the weight room flooring material will be installed. The Fritz tile installation in the north lobby is near completion. Workers will continue to install tile in the multi-purpose room entranceway and in the hallway in that wing. The divider has been installed in the cafeteria. Installation of the divider in the ensemble room is underway. Wood has arrived for the performance area in the studio theatre. Data and phone line installation is progressing for the new wings. The new light poles in the parking lot have been erected. They should be functional within the next week.

Riverside Intermediate (Menominee) – The parking lot poles have been erected. They should to be functioning within the next week.

The new Menominee – The building of the last exterior wall has been started. The brick veneer on current exterior walls is 80% complete. The concrete floors in the boiler room, kitchen, receiving area, dining room, art room, mezzanine, and hallway between the art room and dining room have been poured. The boiler pads have been poured. The boilers have been set and some of the air handling equipment has been set in the mezzanine area. Installation of the roof continues over the northern half of the building.

Washington, Webster, and Lincoln – Punch lists have been updated.


Congratulations!

Dr. Suellen Reed has nominated Webster Elementary to be designated as a blue ribbon school by the federal government. Webster Elementary has been recognized for its ability to close the achievement gap among its diverse populations.

Mary Kay Luchenbill, second grade teacher at Webster, has been nominated for the Disney Teacher Award.

Our custodians have worked extremely hard during the winter break to refresh our buildings.


Town Hall Meetings

The Town Hall Meetings, “Redistricting - A Work in Progress,” are scheduled for January 16th at 5:30 p.m. in the Jefferson cafeteria. January 16th at 7:30 p.m. in the Menominee cafeteria. January 17th at 7:00 p.m. in the Webster cafeteria.

All parents and patrons are encouraged to attend and ask questions. Dr. McKibben uses the information collected from each meeting to develop scenarios. If you have a question for Dr. McKibben, please email your question to jhill@plymouth.k12.in.us and it will be forwarded to him.