Riverside Intermediate Holds Annual Spelling Bee

The annual Riverside Intermediate School 5th grade Spelling Bee was held on March 17, 2011 in the school gym. Nine students participated in the competition under the direction of Mrs. Amy Lewis, fifth grade teacher. The winner, Leah Smith, will represent the school in the county bee which will be held at Argos on Monday, May 2nd. The runner up was Autumn Wilson.

The participants pictured are (L to R) Front row, Winston Carrington, Leah Smith, Jena Downs, Kaylee Hartz, (Middle) Kegan Thomas and Brenna Sullivan; (Back) Olivia Emmons, Autumn Wilson, and Emma Daniels.

Kindergarten Round-Up Set for April 7, 2011

Since non-resident students now can attend Plymouth Community School Corporation (PCSC) with no tuition, PCSC will host the annual Kindergarten Round-up on April 7, 2011 in all Plymouth Elementary Schools. Parents are invited to bring their children to Plymouth.

Resident parents should attend their specific school district round-up. Non-resident parents may attend the round-up at any of the four Plymouth Elementary Schools; however, their child may be placed at another Plymouth School to balance class size.

There will be two sessions. Parents and children need only attend one session. The 1st session is at 1:30 p.m. The 2nd session is at 6:00 p.m. Each session should last no longer than one hour.

Please bring an original copy of your child’s birth certificate, immunization records, and a social security number. The schools will make copies of the originals. For Spanish speaking Kindergartners and parents, interpreters will be available. During the hour-long Round-Up, parents will meet with administrators and fill out registration forms; children will meet with Kindergarten teachers for screening.

In order to be eligible for Round-Up this year, your child needs to be 5 years old on or before August 1, 2011.

For those unsure of which building their child will attend, please call the transportation department at 574-936-3169.

Weather Make-Up Day

The Board of Trustees approved the addition of June 6, 2011, as the additional student make-up day needed to meet the 180 instructional days total required by the Indiana Department of Education. The last teacher day will be June 7, 2011.

Lincoln Junior High Mix/Match Day for Riley

The Lincoln National Junior Honor Society held a Mix/Match Day for Riley. Students made a donation for the opportunity to dress up and try to win one of several gift certificates that were donated by local businesses Beef O'Brady's, Coffee Lodge and Bakery, Pizza Hut, Ponderosa, Quick's Lanes Bowling, Wings Etc and Yoder's Sports.

A total of $524.15 was raised for Riley.

Listed are the winners for picture 1: 7th grade – Melanie Cooper, Gabby Garver, Karly Gruett, Emily McKenzie, and Sarah Tanner
8th grade – Tyler Baker, Bethany Boros, Haley Harrell, Ryan MacLain, and Libbie Portteus

7th Grade – Kaylie Barden, Jack Barron, Melanie Cooper, Randi Dunn, Meghan Egierski, Karly Gruett, Cylie Hartman, Bailey Hatfield, Briana Kintzel, Nicole McGriff, Emily McKenzie, Elise Patrick, Taylor Parillo, Rachel Rettig, Jamie Thomas, and Sarah Walker
8th Grade – Madison Gunderson, Mikayla Haenes, Haley Harrell, Karissa Krou, Ryan MacLain, Libbie Portteus, Cassi Quissell, Libby Read, Kylee Rippy, McKenzie Schuler, and Jenna Wood

7th grade – Jack Barron and Ricky Cooper
8th grade – Johnna Antich, Brianna Binkley, Christie Gorka, Mikayla Haenes, Kirsten Pressler, and Jenna Wood

Riverside 6th Grade Girls Bring Home A Trophy

The Riverside Girls "B" team won the Tippecanoe Valley tournament on Saturday March 12. In game one of the tournament, the Lady Rockets defeated Culver 40 to 4. In the championship game, they beat Whitko 25 to 23. The tournament wins pushed the Rockets overall record to 9 and 0.

From row: Mackenzie Derifield, Lexie Stein, Cassie McPherron, Destiny Schoff, Madison Steven
Back row: Victoria Leazenby, Amber Blissmer, Adrianna Lowry, Mikaela Jernstrom, Rachel Hilty

PLYMOUTH HIGH SCHOOL FFA- Successful at District Leadership Contests

Friday, March 11, 2011 was a night the Plymouth FFA will not soon forget. The FFA chapter competed in multiple career development events against other schools in the District II Leadership Convention. Plymouth FFA won their rights to compete at the State FFA Convention this June at Purdue University. Chapter advisor, Kelli Hoffman took twelve students to the district leadership convention.

Senior Katelynn Penny represented the chapter with her food science demonstration and in the leadership ambassador contest; Makayla Fox competed in the Creed speaking contest and freshman extemporaneous public speaking contest; Bobbie Stiles & Amber White placed 3rd with their plant and soil science demonstration; Makayla DePoy placed 4th in the essay contest and 2nd in the freshman prepared public speaking contest; Sarah Lindvall won the novice plant and soil science demonstration with her demonstration on “plant root growth.” Junior, Hunter Sharp won the job interview contest, qualifying for state competition in June, and placed 4th in the extemporaneous public speaking contest. The quiz bowl team consisting of: Trent Pletcher, Tucker Pletcher, Julia Lipply, and Guy Gainer placed 2nd. The talent group consisting of: Makayla Fox, Katelynn Penny, Tucker Pletcher, Karl Faulstich, and Sarah Lindvall took 3rd.

FFA member Hunter Sharp will be representing the chapter in the Job Interview contest. If she wins state, she will move on to the National Competition held in October. Senior, Katelynn Penny will be receiving her State Hoosier Degree at State Convention in June as well. If Katelynn chooses to do so, she may go on to earn her American FFA degree in the fall of 2012. The American FFA Degree is the highest award the National FFA Organization may bestow to members.

The 2011 PHS FFA Parliamentary Procedure team will also be advancing on in competition this year. They will compete in the Sectional competition on April 18 after earning 2nd at the District II contest. Team members include: Chairmen:Trent Pletcher; Vice President: Hunter Sharp; Secretary: Julia Lipply; Sentinel: Guy Gainer, Student Advisor: Kayla Arriaga; Treasurer: Katelynn Penny; Reporter: Amber White; Floor Members: Tucker Pletcher, Makayla Fox, Makayla DePoy, Sarah Lindvall

“I am so proud of these students,” says Hoffman. “I told them it did not matter where we placed in competition. I simply ask they do their very best...and every one of the kids did exactly what I asked...they went above and beyond and did their best!” Hoffman said she is excited about the possibility of taking students to State FFA Convention at Purdue University this summer.

PHS FFA is also working to earn $1,500 FREE MONEY by competing in a contest called “Chapter Challenge.” To help Plymouth FFA make it into the top 10 in Indiana and win $1,500, simply get online and vote for Plymouth High School FFA at: http://www.ffachapterchallenge.com/ Once on the website, click on “Register and vote as a farmer.” You will be prompted from that point forward. Be sure to vote before May 1, 2011. You may also access the voting page and follow PHS FFA at: http://plymouth-in-ffa-chapter.webs.com/

PHS Speech Advances to National Tournament

Left to right - Jason Pickell, Sean Hatfield, Michaila Nate, Bryt Hiatt, Patrick Felke

The Northwest Indiana NFL District Tournament series concluded last week, and five Plymouth High School students have advanced to this year's NFL National Tournament to be held in Dallas, Texas during June. Senior Bryt Hiatt advanced to the national finals for the third consecutive year in USA Extemp - hoping to improve on his Top Thirty finishes the last two years. Bryt won his event by earning 1st place scores from all five of his judges in the final round (and scoring a nearly perfect day in his four preliminary rounds as well.) Junior, Patrick Felke is making his second visit to the national tournament by virtue of his first place finish in International Extemp. Senior Sean Hatfield and junior Jason Pickell also earned a spot at nationals by virtue of their first place finish in Duo. Michaila Nate had already advanced to nationals in the Senate competition, which was held in January.

Winter Performance Ensemble Will Compete at State Finals

Congratulations to all of the members of the Plymouth High School Winter Performance Ensemble (color guard and drumline).

The team competed at the I.P.A. state prelims at Avon High School on Saturday, and, for the second consecutive season, advanced to the State Finals! There were thirty groups hoping for a chance to make state finals and PHS came out near the top of the pack and earned a "seated" position at state finals. Only the top three schools in each category are given a seated spot at state finals (meaning... you get to go at the end of the day after all the other state finalist groups have performed). This is the highest score and ranking PHS has ever had at this event. (Last season, we finished 8th place at I.P.A. State Finals).

The Winter Performance Ensemble will compete at the State Finals event this coming Saturday at Ben Davis High School.

Congratulations to all of the students involved in the W.P.E.!!!

Leah Cook, Jared Beabout, Kelsey Berger, Justin Buchert, Kameron Eisenhour, Tori Fox, Kristen Gergely, McKenzie Goble, Holly Gosky, Patrick Gouverneur, Jake Harley, Lindsey Holloway, Stephen Johnson, Caitlin Jung, Zach Lee, Katie Lee, Cynthia Lua, Tori MacLain, Ana Miranda, Addie Palmer, Ben Piazza, Jacob Pritchard, Greg Rundle, Taylor Scott, Rinda Scott, Wes Weidelman, Elizabeth Wolford, Amanda Wolford

Webster Elementary Named One of Indiana's Four Star Schools

This week, the Indiana Department of Education released the list of 2009-10 Four Star Schools and Webster Elementary was one of those named for the distinction. Out of 1,808 public schools, only 188 schools met the criteria to be named a Four Star School. Only 111 elementary schools received this distinction. Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett said, “Today I offer sincere congratulations to Indiana’s 2009-10 Four Star Schools as we celebrate their dedication to academics. These schools set high expectations for their students on a daily basis, and as a result, students work hard and exceed those expectations. The students and teachers in these schools should be extremely proud of this honor, and I am confident they will continue down this path of success.”

“We all — teachers, aides, custodians, cafeteria workers, and secretaries — live by the mission statement of the Plymouth Schools to do "whatever it takes,’” said Principal Carrie McGuire. “We all share in upholding the core values which include integrity and high expectations. We make each other accountable.” “We don’t try to just fit the individual student to the program,” she said. “We adjust the program to the student. We try to match our instruction to the needs, strengths and learning styles of the students.”She also had great praise for the parents/families of Webster students. “We have been able to develop relationships and partnerships with our parents,” she said. McGuire said, “Our staff is also willing to learn and try new things. They are really ‘learners’ themselves.”

Plymouth High School Attends Bridge Bust

26 students attended Bridge Bust from Plymouth High School. We had a great learning experience! Several students did well in the competition. 63 bridges were entered into the competition from 11 different schools.

Our top ten bridges in the category of Structural Efficiency are as follows:
7th Andrew Large & Cody Pozil (bridge weight = 58 grams and it held 33.9 lbs.) efficiency = 265.5
9th Makayla Fox (Bridge weight = 78 grams and it held 42.2 lbs.) efficiency = 246.2
10th Matt Libersky (bridge weight = 36 grams and it held 18.9 lbs) efficiency = 238.9
12th Devin Berger and Nelson Waggoner (bridge weight = 74 grams and it held 38.1 lbs.) efficiency = 233.8
16th Elizabeth Wolford and Greg Rundle (bridge weight = 32 grams and it held 15.6 lbs)efficiency =221.9
21st Alex Gallardo (bridge weight = 58 grams and it held 24.6 lbs) efficiency = 193.1
25th Cody Benjamin and Josh Phillips (bridge weight = 74 grams and it held 29.5 lbs) efficiency = 181.1
27th Sommer McClellan and Sarah Iwinski (Bridge weight= 72 grams and it held 26.0 lbs) efficiency = 163.9
28th Aaron Wagers (Bridge weight = 66 grams and it held 21.8 lbs) efficiency =150.0
34th Zoe Mack and Kameron Eisenhower (bridge weight = 42 grams and it held 12.3 lbs) efficiency = 133.3

Aesthetics were judged on 3 categories (structure, design, and appeal) the results are as follows:(A perfect score is 15!)

One bridge scored a 14
Santiago Ibarra and Jeff Overmyer
Two bridges scored a 13:
Makayla Fox
Cody Benjamin and Josh Phillips

3 scored a 12:
Andrew Large and Cody Pozil
Sommer McClellan and Sarah Iwinski
Phillip Iwinski and Jordan Krpan

3 scored an 11:

Matt Libersky
Alex Gallardo
Victoria MacLain and Tabitha Sherwood

Clarification on Menominee Trespassing

On the WTCA website you will find a news article about a man trespassing on Menominee School Grounds: http://am1050.com/2011/03/hindman-arrested-trespassing-menominee-school/

What you need to know is that the trespassing took place around 6-PM, way after school was out. Officer Bridget Hite and the custodial staff at Menominee have been keeping a close watch on this man for some time because he would just park in the back area and smoke around 6-PM. Although his presence seemed harmless, he was asked not park there. Not to mention, we have a school policy on smoking on school grounds.

Menominee is a part of the local Neighborhood Watch Group that was started three years ago due to incidents in the Nutmeg Ridge area, headed up by Menominee parent Lisa Berger at that time. As you can tell from the action taken, we are always on the look out for our kids and neighbors' safety.

Riverside Intermediate Drama Club Presents...

The Riverside Intermediate School Drama Club under the direction of Mrs. Jamie Briles and Mrs. Shelley Shafer presented the play "Over-Worked and Underpaid: Labor Dispute in Fairytale Land" by Harvey and VanGeest on Monday, March 7th. There were two casts for the production and each cast gave two performances. Mr. Rick Shafer built the sets for the production.

The cast members pictured are: (front row): Kirsten Nault, Macy Goble, Abby Kraszyk, (2nd row): Lauren Chupp, Noah Zellers, Austin Read, Trevor Pletcher, (3rd row): Katie McCormick, Sierra Strickland, Victoria Styers, Amanda Youngs, Lanae Singleton, Taylor O'Neal, Ellie Switzer, Josie Koontz, Rachel Smith, Emily Cochern, Mrs. Shafer (4th row) Ashley Crosby, Cassie McPheron, Victoria Leazenby, Emory Smith, Alex Berg, Hannah Walker, Amber Blissmer, Zach Stiller, and Mrs. Briles. Other cast members (not pictured) are: Maggie Nate, Forrest Baumgartner, Autumn Wilson, Chloe Kulwicki, Brittany Culp, Patrick Houser, Olivia Emmons, Selena Cunningham, Sophia Keller, Carlee Donathan, Callie Burch, and Ricky Leffert.

Plymouth Elementary Schools Participate In Youth Art Month

In honor of Youth Art Month, Plymouth Elementary students are having a special display of student work at the Heartland Gallery in downtown Plymouth.

The opening reception will be held on Friday, March 11, from 6:00 to 7:30 pm.

The display will be on view all of March, so if you are unable to attend the reception, you can visit the Gallery any time in March. The Gallery hours are Wednesday through Friday, 12:00 to 5:00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. The entrance to the Gallery is next to Sisters Tea, 203 N Michigan Street, Plymouth.

Plymouth High School FFA Contest Results

I am happy to announce the PHS Future Farmers of America placed 2nd at the district parliamentary procedure contest March 1 and qualified to move on to the area contest in early April!! To our knowledge, this is the first time PHS FFA has ever moved on to the area contest! Team members consisted of: Trent Pletcher, Tucker Pletcher, Hunter Sharp, Guy Gainer, Kayla Arriaga, Amber White, Katelynn Penny, Makayla Fox, Makayla Depoy, Sarah Lindvall, Julia Lipply. Coach: FFA advisor, Kelli Hoffman

Plymouth High School Jazz, Guard & Drumline Excel

The PHS Jazz Band competed in the ISSMA Jazz Competition at LaPorte H.S. on Friday evening and came out with the top award rating (Gold Award)! The band was also able to see a clinic performance by the University of Missouri Jazz Ensemble. This Gold rating completed the third of four phases for the instrumental music department to receive the prestigious ISSMA "All Music Award" given to groups that receive only Gold Awards at every ISSMA event during a school year.

The PHS Winter Guard competed in the IHSCGA Divisional State Finals on Saturday at Mooresville H.S. After winning the Class 3A State Championship last winter, we voluntarily moved up to Class 2A for a higher level of competition against larger schools. Even with the move to Class 2A, the group did an outstanding job and was one of only 10 schools (out of 40 schools at finals) to earn the top award of a Gold Rating. Although Penn H.S. won the state championship, Plymouth was BY FAR the crowd's favorite group of the day and the gym came alive with applause during our performance. PHS was given a standing ovation by the other schools at the end of our performance and our kids were extremely proud of the response that we received from our competitors. PHS is the only group in the state that uses live music (as opposed to a cd soundtrack) to perform to. This is a HUGE risk on our part, but definitely made our group the one-of-a-kind performance that the audience loved and it pushed us to the top once again! I was truly proud of our group and the attention that they received after making such a huge jump into a higher class and still coming out at the top of the pack!

The PHS Winter Drumline (currently ranked 5th in the state - out of 30 schools going into the state prelims) will compete for their second state finals performance this coming weekend. The group made state finals for the first time last winter in Class 2A. The group will compete at Avon H.S. this coming Saturday at the I.P.A. State Prelims. Only 10 schools will advance to the state finals and Plymouth is seated in the 5th position (performances are given in ranking order) which is a GREAT place to perform in! Good luck to these students as they shoot for another state finals performance!

Congratulations to all of the students in the PHS Jazz Ensemble, Winter Guard, and Winter Drumline!

Plymouth High School Speech Sectional Placings

For over 30 years, no school in north-central Indiana has won a Sectional Speech Championship - except Plymouth High School. That trend continued on Saturday as the PHS speakers amassed 223 points (the top Sectional total in the state) as compared to Concord's second place 75 points. Individual champions included...Sean Hatfield and Jason Pickell in Memorized Duo; Sarah Gouker and Olivia Hilliard in Scripted Duo; Patrick Felke in International Extemp, Bryt Hiatt in USA Extemp; Pauline Dagaas in Declamation; Michaila Nate in Impromptu, Deven Berger in Discussion, and Jessica Cleveland in Original Performance. However, those finishes alone would have only provided 64 points. It was the team's overall quality and depth that made the real difference. For a complete listing of results, you can go to the Plymouth High School Website and link to Mr. McKenzie's Speech and Debate Team blog. The team will next prepare for the national qualification tournament this Saturday here at PHS. Good luck this weekend and at State.

PHS Band and Guard Awarded High Honors

The PHS Jazz Band competed in the ISSMA Jazz Competition at LaPorte H.S. on Friday evening and came out with the top award rating (Gold Award)! The band was also able to see a clinic performance by the University of Missouri Jazz Ensemble. This Gold rating completed the third of four phases for the instrumental music department to receive the prestigious ISSMA "All Music Award" given to groups that receive only Gold Awards at every ISSMA event during a school year.

The PHS Winter Guard competed in the IHSCGA Divisional State Finals on Saturday at Mooresville H.S. After winning the Class 3A State Championship last winter, we voluntarily moved up to Class 2A for a higher level of competition against larger schools. Even with the move to Class 2A, the group did an outstanding job and was one of only 10 schools (out of 40 schools at finals) to earn the top award of a Gold Rating. Although Penn H.S. won the state championship, Plymouth was BY FAR the crowd's favorite group of the day and the gym came alive with applause during our performance. PHS was given a standing ovation by the other schools at the end of our performance and our kids were extremely proud of the response that we received from our competitors. PHS is the only group in the state that uses live music (as opposed to a cd soundtrack) to perform to. This is a HUGE risk on our part, but definitely made our group the one-of-a-kind performance that the audience loved and it pushed us to the top once again! I was truly proud of our group and the attention that they received after making such a huge jump into a higher class and still coming out at the top of the pack!

The PHS Winter Drumline (currently ranked 5th in the state - out of 30 schools going into the state prelims) will compete for their second state finals performance this coming weekend. The group made state finals for the first time last winter in Class 2A. The group will compete at Avon H.S. this coming Saturday at the I.P.A. State Prelims. Only 10 schools will advance to the state finals and Plymouth is seated in the 5th position (performances are given in ranking order) which is a GREAT place to perform in! Good luck to these students as they shoot for another state finals performance!

Congratulations to all of the students in the PHS Jazz Ensemble, Winter Guard, and Winter Drumline!

BPA Leadership Conference Results

Members in Bold Have Advanced to National Leadership Conference.

Payroll Accounting: Fletcher Craft - 3rd
Fundamental Spreadsheets: Eric Blake - State Champion - 1st
Keyboarding Production: Kelly Bryant - State Runner-up - 2nd, Scott Cawthon - 6th
Fundamental Word Processing: Kelly Bryant - 5th
Desktop Publishing: Kelli Weist - 10th
Basic Office Systems and Procedures: Sam VanVoorhis - 6th
Prepared Speech: Sarah Gouker - 3rd
Extemporaneous Speech: Patrick Felke - State Finalist - 6th
Administrative Support Team - State Runner-Up - 2nd: Eric Blake, Scott Cawthon, Fletch Craft, Morgan Hill
Small Business Management Team - State Champions - 1st: Courtney Harris, Bryt Hiatt, Maja Howard, Lane Singleton
Advanced Spreadsheets: Karl Faulstich - 10th
Computer Security: Logan May - State Runner-Up - 2nd
Medalist Winners in Open Events:
Marketing, Management, and Human Resource Concepts: Logan May - 3rd
Information Technology Concepts - Logan May - 6th
Financial Math and Analysis - Logan May - 3rd

Riverside 5th Grade Girls Win!

The Riverside 5th Grade Girls A and B Basketball teams won the North Liberty Tournament Saturday. The A Team defeated North Liberty 16-7 and Walkerton in the Championship 17-15. The B Team defeated North Liberty 32-5 and LaVille 22-2. The Lady Rockets are both 4-0 on the season.

A team Back Row: Coach Kim Burns, Leah Smith, Allison Andrews, Kenzie Quissell, Sarah Egierski, Christin Davidson, Shayla Noble. Middle Row- Brianna Rasmussen, Jennah Nifong, Bailey Eveland, Alexis McVicker. Front Row- Cortni Cook, Maggie Nate.

B Team Back row-Taylor Brown, Kirsten Nault, Liz Lenig, Loren Mattern, Autumn Wilson, Abby Blum, Coach Kim Burns. Front Row- Leena Tetzloff, Kiley Weiss, Karen Pacheco-Mendoza, Jailyn Fox, and Jewel Brown

2 Hour Delay

For Tuesday, March 1, PCSC will open 2 hour late because of a gas leak in town.

Comments

Because of some internal changes in our network, I have not be able to moderate comments for a while. Please accept my apologies. I will keep up from now on.

PHS Spanish Teacher Headed for South America

Constancia Wendt, Spanish teacher at Plymouth High School, has won a Lilly Teacher Creativity Fellowship Grant and is headed for Peru, South America, for 6 weeks this summer to learn Afro-peruvian dance! Congratulations Constancia!

Green to compete in Poetry Out Loud Contest

Plymouth High School senior Christina Green will compete in the state round of Poetry Out Loud: National Recitation Contest, held this Saturday, February 26 in Indianapolis. Christina won the school competition in December with a flawless performance of Martin Espada's "The Meaning of the Shovel." This Saturday, she will compete against twelve other students across Indiana. Along with "The Meaning of the Shovel" Christina will recite poems "Their Bodies" by David Wagoner and "Revenge" by Letitia Elizabeth Landon. If she wins the state competition, she will advance to the national round to compete against every state's winner.

State Wrestling Results

Congratulations to Damon Howe for placing 2nd in the State at the 285 pound weight class this weekend at Conseco Fieldhouse.

Damon won his first match Friday night over Ta'quan Walker of Fort Wayne North Side with an impressive 29 second pin. Saturday morning Damon handed Willie Henson of North Central High School his first loss of the year. Henson was 40-0 before meeting up with Howe. In the semi-finals Damon handed Eric Forrest of Jimtown a 4-0 loss. Damon wrestled an incredible match underneath the spot light at Conseco Fieldhouse going into overtime against Jeremiah Harvey of Culver Community High School before dropping a 3-1 decision. Damon finishes his senior season with a 36-3 record. He also ran his career win total to 100 wins in 3 years of varsity wrestling.

ISSMA State Vocal Contest Results

On Saturday, February 19, 30 Plymouth High School Choir students competed in the ISSMA State Vocal Solo and Ensemble Contest in Indianapolis. Out of 18 events, we took home 12 golds and 6 silvers. The following students received gold ratings in the solo competition: Tori Fox, Sarah Gouker, Priscilla Hammonds, Courtney Harris, Becca Houser and Alex Jeffirs. Receiving a silver rating were Grace Anders, Kendall Cooper, Cassie Gaines, Katie Galloway and Jessie Gibbs.

In the ensemble competition, Plymouth took 7 events to state, 6 placing with gold and 1 silver. Students participating in events with a gold placing were Jace Allen, Grace Anders (2 events), Jack Bowen, Joe Brennan, Kendall Cooper, Jenny Dudash (2), Bryce England, Karl Faulstich, Tori Fox (2), Cassie Gaines (2), Katie Galloway, Jessie Gibbs, Sarah Gouker (2), Priscilla Hammonds (2), Courtney Harris (2), Austin Haynes, Olivia Hilliard (2), Becca Houser, Margaret Howard (3), Kaitlyn Lenne (2), Tayler May (3), Blake Miller, Alex Moore (2), Morgan O'Neal, Elias Ortiz, Gina Rodeghero, Ty Shivley and Eli Wendt. Receiving a silver finish were Priscilla Hammonds, Mandy McPherron and Tia Merritt.

Congratulations on a job well done!

Weather for Monday, February 21

This morning we were on the roads and they were fine at 6:00 AM when our bus routes start. At approximately 6:30 it started raining ice. It was too late to cancel school and I am pleased to announce that students got to school without any accidents.

At approximately 11:45 AM it started raining ice again. It was too dangerous to release school during these conditions. The weather services have all reported that by the time of our regular release, the roads should be snow-covered, and a safer time to release students.

Because the weather is predicted to be bad tonight, we have canceled all after-school activities.

LJHS 4th Annual Craft Show

On April 16, 2011, the LJHS Music Department is putting on its 4th annual LJHS Craft Show and Concert as our fundraiser. If you or anyone you know would like to set up a booth at this event, please contact Brandi Brennan at Lincoln Jr High by March 15, 2011.

The festivities will begin at 11:00 and end at 2:00. The Lincoln Jr. High Music Department will be selling Nelson’s Port-a-Pit Chicken and providing entertainment throughout the day. Last year, more than 2000 people came to enjoy the day. We hope you will come join the fun!

Snow Make-Up Days

Just a reminder that school will be in session on Monday, February 21, 2011, as a snow make-up day. School will also be in session on April 1, 2011, a scheduled make-up day, and adding June 3, 2011, as the last student day. Hopefully, we will have no other weather that prohibits attending school, but this calendar is still subject to change. Think Spring!

Plymouth High School presents A World of Words

A World of Words our PHS Winter play.
Completely created, written and performed by our own PHS students.
Friday and Saturday, Feb. 18 and 19 in the PHS Auditorium.
The play is at 7:00 PM each evening and the doors

College Night in Indiana

On February 24 at 6:00 p.m. the IDOE will host College Night in Indiana. This live event will be available on the IDOE website: http://www.doe.in.gov/collegenight. College admission deans from Indiana University, Purdue University and Butler University will answer questions about the college application process, including how to earn scholarships. All high school students and their parents are encouraged to participate. If you have questions about this event, see your counselor.

State Swim Meet Results

This past Friday and Saturday, Kenzie Miller participated in the 2010-2011 High School Swimming State Meet. The meet was held in Indianapolis at the IU Natatorium. As a 4th year competitor for Plymouth High School, Kenzie held her place in the top 8 in both of her events and stood up to her name. In the 200 Individual Medley, Kenzie placed 4th with a time of 2:04 out-touching several competitors and moving up 3 places from Friday night. In the 100 backstroke, Kenzie swam a lifetime best time of :56.02 to place 3rd in the state! This is no easy task and it took hard work, determination and a desire to win to make it to the top! Congratulations Kenzie- What an outstanding meet and a rewarding end to a very accomplished high school career on the swim team!

Lady Redstorm wins Valparaiso Tournament

The 8th grade Lady Redstorm played two very competitive games at the Valparaiso Tournament this weekend. The first game they won they faced Grimmer (Lake Central). Bailey Brown came off the bench giving the team a much needed offensive spark. The championship game they faced the Lady Vikings of Valparaiso. The Redstorm defeated the Vikings in overtime leading to winning this tournament for the second year in a row! Haley Harrell led the way in scoring and Kirstin Riise provided some big baskets in the overtime. Each girl contributed greatly to both wins! The Lady Redstorm is now 9-0 and will face Culver at home on Wednesday!

2-Hour Delay

Plymouth Schools is on a 2-Hour Delay for Thursday, February 10, 2011. Bundle up as it will still be pretty cold at 10 AM!

Severe Cold Weather Bus Route

When weather conditions are severely cold, temperatures below -10 degrees Fahrenheit, or a windchill factor of -19 degrees below zero Fahrenheit or less, frostbite can occur at 30 minutes of exposure according to the National Weather Service Windchill Chart.

Plymouth Community School Corporation shall provide an additional route for students in the city limits who walk to school.. PCSC shall make a decision by 6:15 am. Announcements pertaining to school closure and the determination on whether the Severe Weather Route shall be provided will be announced by radio and television or a School Reach recording by telephone.

Listed below are the pick up points for students to catch the Severe Weather Route Bus:

7:12 am - Carriage Green Apartments
7:17 am - Baker & Fairbanks
7:20 am - Walnut & Novelty
7:22 am - Walnut & Harrison
7:24 am - Walnut & Monroe
7:26 am - Walnut & Washington
7:28 am - Walnut & Lewis
7:30 am - Pierce & Gilmore
7:32 am - Gilmore & Dickson
7:34 am - Pearl & Conger
7:36 am - Thayer & Nursery
7:38 am - Miner & Ewing
7:40 am - Bayless & Charles
7:42 am - Liberty & Pennsylvania

Any questions concerning the Severe Weather Route may be directed to the Transportation office at 936-3169. Click on this link to take you to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration web site to see the National Weather Service Windchill Chart http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/windchill/

Annual Dessert Recital at Plymouth High School

Next Monday evening, February 14, 2011, the Vocal Department of Plymouth High School will host their annual "Dessert Recital" starting at 7:00 p.m. in the Studio Theater. This event will feature all of the vocal state qualifiers for ISSMA's state competition. In order to qualify for state competition, each of these students had to sing a 1st division solo or ensemble chosen from a required list prepared by ISSMA officials. The singer then had to receive a Gold rating at the district level in order to advance to state.

The evening will feature 10 soloists and 7 ensembles. We hope you can attend this great event and support music in our schools. Desserts and beverages will be served immediately following the recital in the choir room.

Girls Swimming Sectional Results

This past Thursday and Saturday, the PHS Girls Swim Team competed in the Indiana Sectional Swim Meet at Warsaw High School. PHS finished in a well earned 4th place out of 11 different teams from the surrounding area. Leading the team and meet in points, wins and times, co-captain Kenzie Miller placed 1st in both of her individual events and led both of her relays to the top six. In the 200 IM, Kenzie broke the sectional meet and her own personal record swimming a shattering 2:04.72 which puts her in 1st place IN THE STATE going into Friday’s state swim meet at IUPUI. In the 100 backstroke, Kenzie swam a :56.77 to put her in 4th place IN THE STATE for Saturday’s meet as well. This is the 4th year that Kenzie has advanced to the state competition in individual events- Congratulations Kenzie- all of that hard work and dedication has paid off! Finally, Kenzie lead the 200 IM relay (along with Hannah Eads, Katelyn Brown and Katelyn Brashere) to a 4th place finish in the finals and the team of Eads, Kaley Brower and Kannika Chairsi to a second place finish in the 400 Free relay. Co-captain Hannah Eads placed 10th in both the 50 Free with a :28 and in the 100 back with a time of 1:12. Senior Katelyn Brashere placed 12th in the 200 Freestyle and 8th in the 100 butterfly with a time of 1:10. Junior Katelyn Brown placed 11th in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 1:21 for a seasonal best. Sophomore Megan Senter placed 8th in the 200 free with a time of 2:13 and 7th in the 500 free with a time of 5:59. She was also a member of the 200 free relay (along with Kannika Chairsi, Holly Overmyer and Kaley Brower) that placed 5th. Kaley Brower swam the 50 free in a time of :26 to take 8th in that event and as well as 8th in the 100 free with a time of :59. Junior Alayna Holmquest came in 2nd in diving with a score of 312 and will be advancing to Divisionals on Tuesday at Penn High School- Good luck! Holly Overmyer came in 11th in the 500 free with a time of 6:13. Ella Portteus came in 12th in the 200 IM with a time of 2:47. Freshman Lexi Fetters swam the 100 butterfly and placed 11th with a personal best. Finally, freshman Kate Peters and Sidney Listenberger swam personal bests in the 100 Free and 100 fly to have a successful end to the swim season. Congratulations ladies on a great season!

District Vocal Solo and Ensemble Results

1st Division Solos:
*denotes State Qualifier

Grace Anders: Gold*
Kendall Cooper: Gold*
Tori Fox: Gold*
Cassie Gaines: Gold*
Katie Galloway: Gold*
Jessie Gibbs: Gold*
Sarah Gouker: Gold*
Priscilla Hammonds: Gold*
Courtney Harris: Gold*
Becca Houser: Gold*
Tyler Switzer: Gold*

Joseph Brennan: Silver
Katelyn Hartsell: Silver
Kit Hersick: Silver
Olivia Hilliard: Silver
Margaret Howard: Silver
Marie LaValle: Silver
Cinthia Lua: Silver
Tayler May: Silver

Amanda McPherron: Silver
Tia Merritt: Silver
Alex Moore: Silver
Zandra Norris: Silver

2nd Division Soloists:

Macie McMichael: Gold
Gina Rodeghero: Gold

3rd Division Soloists:

Debra Burke: Gold
Margaret Buza: Gold
Morgan Hite: Gold
Rachel O'Brien: Gold

Vanessa Hite: Silver
Isamar Reyna: Silver
Aaron Coffey: Silver

Samantha Anthony: Participation
1st Division Ensembles:
*denotes State Qualifiers

“Peg Leg Pete”: Gold*
Jace Allen, Jack Bowen, Joe Brennan, Bryce England, Karl Faulstich, Austin Haynes, Blake Miller, Elias Ortiz, Ty Shively, Eli Wendt

“How Can I Keep From Singing”: Gold*
Grace Anders, Kendall Cooper, Jenny Dudash, Tori Fox, Cassie Gaines, Katie Galloway, Jessie Gibbs, Sarah Gouker, Priscilla Hammonds, Courtney Harris, Olivia Hilliard, Becca Houser, Margaret Howard, Kaitlyn Lenne, Tayler May, Alex Moore, Morgan O'Neal, Gina Rodeghero

“A Joyful Alleluia”: Gold*
Grace Anders, Olivia Hilliard, Margaret Howard, Tayler May

“He's Gone Away”: Gold*
Jenny Dudash, Sarah Gouker, Olivia Hilliard

“Music When Soft Voices Die”: Gold*
Margaret Howard, Tayler May, Alex Moore

“Shoheen”: Gold*
Priscilla Hammonds, Mandy McPherron, Tia Merritt

“Stopping By Woods”: Gold*
Tori Fox, Cassie Gaines, Priscilla Hammonds, Courtney Harris, Kaitlyn Lenne, Tayler May

“Ching-a-Ring Chaw”: Silver
Jace Allen, Grace Anders, Jack Bowen, Kendall Cooper, Bryce England, Karl Faulstich, Tori Fox, Cassie Gaines, Jessie Gibbs, Sarah Gouker, Priscilla Hammonds, Courtney Harris, Austin Haynes, Olivia Hilliard, Margaret Howard, Tayler May, Blake Miller, Elias Ortiz, Ty Shively, Eli Wendt

“Stopping By Woods”: Bronze
Dakota Bradley, Tori Godwin, Krissy Wierenga

3rd Division Ensembles:
“Seasons of Love”: Gold
Sam Anthony, Gianella Cerritiano, Jessie Gibbs, Elizabeth Masson, Rachel O'Brien, Tyler Switzer

“Come To Shore”: Gold
April Bowen, Shelby Pratt, Ellen Smith

“Ordinary Miracle”: Gold
Cassie Gaines, Carissa May, Tayler May

“Bless the Broken Road”: Silver
Aaron Coffey, Morgan Hite, Carissa May, Griffin Masterson, Zandra Norris

“Ordinary Miracle”: Silver
Maggie Buza, Emily Merritt, Morgan Thomas

PCSC School Board Awards Roofing Contracts at a Big Savings Using QSCB (Qualified School Construction Bonds)

At last night's school board meeting Lawmaster Roofing was awarded contracts to install new roofing and to recondition roofing at Jefferson Elementary, Lincoln Junior High, and Plymouth High School. Five roofing contractors submitted bids from a high of $3,140,220 to the low bid by Lawmaster Roofing of $1,930,000. Those bids covered all labor and general materials. Architectural design costs are $11,000.

Each building is a separate project with specific roofing materials to be purchased by the school district using the GSA (Government Services Administration) purchasing list: Jefferson School - $147,338; Lincoln Junior High - $148,502; Plymouth High School - $148,367.

The total cost of the project is $2,385,307, that price compares very favorably with similar school roofing projects:
· Plymouth Community Schools $7.45 per square foot
· South Bend Schools $11.95 per square foot
· Duneland Schools $10.50 per square foot
· Southwest Allen Schools $9.85 per square foot

And the last piece of goods news is that the project has come in at $168,591 under budget!

2-Hour Delay

On Friday, February 4, Plymouth will have a 2-hour delay due to the extreme cold coupled with dangerous road conditions. We will still release students from school 30 minutes early.

Thursday Closed

At this time we have determined that the county roads are still unsafe for our busses to navigate so we are closing Thursday, February 3.

Thursday Delay

Because of the heavy snow, Plymouth Community School Corporation will operate on a 2-hour delay on Thursday, February 3. Marshall County still has a State of Emergency. Please stay off the roads and allow the county crews to clear the roads.

No School Wednesday

The Plymouth Community School Corporation will be closed on Wednesday, February 2, due to heavy snow and winds.

Early Release

Because of the severe weather warnings, Plymouth Schools will release two hours earlier than they ordinarily do. There will be no after-school activities and no Wednesday morning activities.

ISSMA District Level Solo and Ensemble Band Competition Results

Congratulations to all of the band and orchestra students that attended the ISSMA District level Solo and Ensemble competition this past Saturday.

The following students had GREAT performances and will now advance to the ISSMA State Finals (held at North Central H.S. in Indianapolis) on the last Saturday of February.

State Finalists
Justin Buchert
Leah Cook
Chris Eberly
Lindsey Holloway
Caitlin Jung
Katie Lee
Zach Lee
Addie Palmer
Ben Piazza
Jacob Pritchard (in 2 events)
Greg Rundle

The following students only missed being a state finalist by one half of one point!
Nicole Splix
Ashley Stokes

Education Legislation Newsletter – Volume 2

House Bill 1002 calls for the enhancement and addition of Charter Schools to be authorized. The bill is calling for these dollars to be taken from public school transportation funds. Transportation funds are collected by local property taxes.

Where, you might ask, are Charter Schools located in Indiana? According to The Hechinger Report, 70% of Charter Schools in Indiana are located within the Indianapolis Public Schools district. The remaining Charter Schools are, for the most part, in urban areas such as South Bend, Gary, Fort Wayne, and Evansville.

Do you think this is a good idea? Do you agree with the state sending your property tax dollars to Indianapolis and other urban areas for Charter Schools? If you are for this or against this, please take time to email Senator Ed Charbonneau and Representative Nancy Dembowski to tell them how you feel.

Edward E Charbonneau – S5@in.gov
Nancy Dembowski – H17@in.gov

Boletín de Noticias del Legislación de Educación – Volumen 2

El proyecto de ley 1002 pide el aumento y la adición de Escuelas Autónomas para ser autorizadas. El proyecto de ley pide que quiten estos dólares de los fondos públicos del transporte de las escuelas. Los fondos del transporte son recibidos por impuestos sobre la propiedad local.

¿Dónde, usted quizás preguntara, están las Escuelas Autónomas localizadas en Indiana? Según El Reporte de Hechinger, 70% de Escuelas Autónomas en Indiana están localizadas dentro del distrito de las Escuelas Públicas de Indianapolis. La mayor parte de las Escuelas Autónomas están, por lo general, en las áreas urbanas como South Bend, Gary, Fort Wayne, y Evansville.

¿Piensa usted que esto es una idea buena? ¿Esta usted de acuerdo con el estado que envíe sus dólares de impuesto sobre la propiedad a Indianapolis y otras áreas urbanas para las Escuelas Autónomas? Si usted esta de acuerdo con esto o contra esto, toma por favor un tiempo de mandar un correo electrónico a Senador Ed Charbonneau y a la Representante Nancy Dembowski para decirles cómo usted se siente.

Edward E Charbonneau – S5@in.gov
Nancy Dembowski – H17@in.gov

PHS Swim Team Results

This past week on Thursday and Saturday, the girls PHS Swim Team swam their conference meet at Northridge High School. The Pilgrims placed 5th overall in the finals meet with over 10 personal best times, while other swimmers achieved lifetime bests. Senior captain Kenzie Miller led the team in the 200 medley and 400 freestyle relays both of which placed 5th in Saturdays finals. She swam the 200 individual medley in a time of 2:05.75 breaking both the conference meet record as well as the Northridge pool record. In the 100 backstroke she broke both records again with a time of :56. 23 to also get the PHS team record! Congratulations Kenzie! Senior captain Hannah Eads also contributed to the 200 medley and 400 freestyle relays as well as swimming a season best in the 100 backstroke with a time of 1:11. Senior Katelynn Brashere swam a season best in 200 medley relay as well as a personal best in the 100 fly with a time of 1:08 in Saturday’s finals. Junior Alayna Holmquest placed 9th in diving overall to help the team move forward in the finals. Junior Katelyn Brown had a lifetime best in both the 500 freestyle with a time of 6:11 and 100 breaststroke with a time of 1:21 to also lead the Pilgrims to their conference finish. Sophomore Megan Senter swam a lifetime best in the 500 free with a time of 6:07, while Ella Portteus also swam lifetime bests in the 100 backstroke and 500 freestyle. Finally, freshman Lexi Fetters dropped 2 seconds in the 100 fly to get a time of 1:15 while Kaley Brower broke her season records in the 50 and 100 free to get personal bests. Congratulations ladies! Senior night is this Tuesday at home-come support the seniors!

BPA District Leadership Conference Results

Please congratulate BPA members for an outstanding performance at this year's 2011 District Leadership Conference that took place today in Warsaw.

Members in Bold Have Advanced to State Leadership Conference.

Fundamental Accounting
Patrick Felke-1st
Lane Singleton-3rd
Tyler Crum-5th
Micah Harner-7th
Aiden Osman-8th

Payroll Accounting (PHS Wins All SLC Spots)
Fletch Craft-1st
Matt Scheetz-2nd
Morgan Hill-3rd
Calvin Eads-4th
Caitlin Jung-5th
Karson Doll-6th

Keyboarding Production
(PHS Wins All SLC Spots)
Kelly Bryant-1st
Emily Blake-2nd
Micah Harner-3rd
Scott Cawthon-4th
Tyler Crum-5th
Karl Faulstich-6th
Morgan Sissel-8th

Fundamental Word Processing
(PHS Wins All SLC Spots)
Kelly Bryant-1st
Jacob Schrock-2nd
Kaitlyn Brettin-3rd
Caitlin Jung-4th

Desktop Publishing
Kelli Weist-2nd
Jacob Schrock-3rd
Chelsey Burkus-8th

Basic Office Systems and Procedures
Kaitlyn Brettin-1st
Sam VanVoorhis-2nd

Prepared Speech
Sarah Gouker-2nd
Courtney Harris-3rd

Extemporaneous Speech
Patrick Felke-1st
AJ Ruffing-6th

Interview Skills
Maja Howard-4th

Medical Office Procedures
Sam VanVoorhis-1st

Administrative Support Team-1st
Eric Blake
Scott Cawthon
Fletch Craft
Morgan Hill

Small Business Management Team-1st
Courtney Harris
Bryt Hiatt
Maja Howard
Lane Singleton

Database Applications
Mike Treat-1st

Advanced Spreadsheets
Karl Faulstich-1st

Global Marketing Team-1st
Luke Bumpus
Sarah Gouker
Mitch Holloway
Matt Scutchfield

Advanced Word Processing
Calvin Eads-3rd
Kelli Weist-5th
Karson Doll-6th
AJ Ruffing-7th

PC Servicing and Troubleshooting
Logan May-1st
Jacob Lenburg-2nd

Computer Security
Logan May-1st
Jacob Lenburg-2nd

Fundamental Spreadsheets
Eric Blake-2nd
Josh Zehner-3rd
Matt Scheetz-5th
Emily Blake-6th
Mitch Holloway-7th
Morgan Sissel-8th

Broadcast Team-1st
Sam Compton
Mike Treat

Advanced Interview Skills
Bryt Hiatt-2nd
Luke Bumpus-3rd

Medalist Winners in Open Events

Insurance Concepts-Micah Harner

Marketing, Management, Human Resources-Logan May

Information Technology Concepts-Logan May, Micah Harner

Administrative Support Concepts-Matt Scutchfield, Logan May, Micah Harner

Financial Math and Analysis-Logan May, Caitlin Jung, Kelly Bryant

Members Advancing to State Leadership Conference in Two Events
Patrick Felke
Lane Singleton
Fletch Craft
Morgan Hill
Kelly Bryant
Scott Cawthon
Jacob Schrock
Kaitlyn Brettin
Sam VanVoorhis
Sarah Gouker
Courtney Harris
Eric Blake
Mike Treat
Bryt Hiatt
Logan May
Jacob Lenburg
Calvin Eads

LJH Red Storm Results

In round one, the Red Storm dominated early, capturing a 41-5 halftime lead before putting the game away for good in the second half, defeating the Trojans 66-16. Jack Barron led all scorers with 16 points, and Stevie Helm netted eight. Matt Friar chipped in six points and grabbed five rebounds while Logan Crum, Braydon Davidson, and Jake Dewar each chipped in six points.

In the championship game, the Red Storm wore down a hungry Lion team en route to a 61-41 victory. Cam Eveland paced the Red Storm in the first half, netting 11 of his 15 points in the first two quarters, and after a slow start, Braydon Davidson erupted in the third quarter, scoring 11 of his game-high 23 points. Eveland's first half and Davidson's second were enough to keep the Lions out of reach. Sam Stone chipped in eight points, and Jack Barron added seven. Nate Knapp, Trevor Neidlinger, and Spencer Mae-Croft fueled the Red Storm defense in both games. The 7th-grade Red Storm has now won 15 straight games and stand at 17-2 for the season.

WEATHER RELATED CLOSING

All after school activities (including athletic practices) for Plymouth Community School Corporation have been canceled for Tuesday, January 11, 2011, due to the weather.

What a Wonderful, Giving Community We Live In!

As we approach the holidays, Plymouth Community School Corporation would like to thank everyone out there who has given their time or dollars to help our schools and our students. During the last few years as money has been tight, our community has continued to support Plymouth Schools. Also, at this time I think it's important to acknowledge how giving our students and staff are to help their fellow students, staff, community, and Hoosiers in need. As of December 18, Plymouth staff and students have given $36,091.26 toward several different local causes. Isn't it a wonderful place to live!
Core Values: Caring, Commitment to Students

Tuesday, December 14

Because of the heavy snow and drifting roads, there will be a two-hour delay on Tuesday, December, 14, 2010.

We hope that School Reach is now functioning correctly and reaching all numbers of parents, staff, and student cell phones. Please send any corrections to dtyree@plymouth.k12.in.us.

Make-Up Snow Day

Plymouth Community School Corporation will be in session February 21, 2011 (President's Day) as a snow make-up day for December 13, 2010.

School Closed Monday

Because of the drifting snow and threats of continued snow throughout the day Plymouth Schools are cancelled for Monday, December 13, 2010.

Also, we are still experiencing problems with School Reach. We hope to have this fixed quickly.

Two-hour Delay

Because of the high winds and drifting snow, Plymouth Schools is operating on a two-hour delay for Monday, December 13.

D.A.R.E. Essay Winners

Officer Mark Owen is shown here surrounded by the D.A.R.E. essay winners from Riverside Intermediate School. The essays will be presented on Thursday, January 6, 2011, at 2:15 p.m. and the public is invited to attend. All 6th grade students wrote essays and a panel of judges narrowed it down to the winners pictured. One overall winner will be announced at the end of the year.

D.A.R.E. - ESSAY WINNERS
Front Row - Lauren Wiegan, Victoria Styers, Lanae Singleton, Alex Berg, Hannah Walker, Lexie Stein, Daisy Lewis,
Back Row - Daniel Vegso, Austin Read, Officer Mark Owen, Travis Owen, David Bacon
Core Values: High Expectations, Integrity

PHS Athletic Department Garage Sale

The Plymouth Athletic Department's inaugural "Garage Sale" will take place December 17th before the boy's basketball game vs. Northwood and January 7th before the boy's basketball game vs. Elkhart Memorial. This sale will be loaded with game jerseys, game shorts, warm-up jackets, warm-up pants, and other sports memorabilia from Pilgrim athletes and teams over the last 30 years including the '82 State Championship team. Come and finish your holiday shopping at "The Rock" for the Plymouth athlete in your family!

Core Values: Enjoyment, Team Player

Plymouth High School Supports Student Learning In and Out Of The Classroom

This week Plymouth High School's teachers were rewarded for their work in and out of the classroom. The National Honor Society named both Michael Delp and Bryan Ames as two of the six semi-finalists for Teacher of Excellence. Michael Delp teaches math and Bryan Ames teaches instrumental music. The final award is given at the National Honor Society Induction Ceremony in May.
PHS also honored two teachers with The Rock Solid Teacher Award for their outstanding work in the classroom and in extra-curricular activities as well. Jessica Gordon, language arts teacher, and Phil Koops, science teacher, were named for their strong instructional skills and their dedication to students outside of the classroom.
Core Values: Commitment to Students, High Expectations

PHS Presents Annual Christmas Spectacular

This Sunday, December 12, 2010, the Plymouth High School Music Department is hosting their annual "Christmas Spectacular" holiday concert. The show is in the Plymouth High School auditorium and begins at 3:00 pm. This is a great way to spend Sunday afternoon and get in the holiday spirit! Hope to see you there!
Core Values: Enjoyment

Boys' & Girls' Club Present Youth Service Award

The Michiana Youth Sports League presents Roy Benge, PHS Athletic Director, an award and a very special Thank You for supporting their mission of serving youth by providing the Boys' & Girls Club the opportunity to utilize the Plymouth High School Track and Field Facility to host their annual event. Presenting the plaque to Roy Benge is Andrea Schoof and Bill Deering, from the Boys & Girls Club.

Core Values: Commitment to Students

Riverside Ecology Goes Green

The Ecology Club at Riverside Intermediate School continues to Go Green! The fifth and sixth grade members of the club, under the direction of the sponsors, Mrs. Tillie Kain and Mrs. Jill Montgomery, have undertaken a new project in conjunction with a recycling company from southern Indiana. The student members of the club want to purchase benches for the front of the school. These benches would be used by students who get dropped off early in the morning or who are waiting to be picked up after their after school activities. The club did some investigating and found this Indiana company that makes benches by recycling lids from all types of plastic bottles. The cost of the benches is lower if the students collect the plastic lids that will be used to make the benches. Riverside students are asking the community to help them collect plastic lids from milk cartons, water bottles…any type of plastic lid. The students are also collecting old ink jet cartridges and cell phones which can be sold to an electronics recycling company to help cover costs. Thank you in advance for helping Riverside students Go Green! Working together we can make a difference for Planet Earth!

Core Values: Integrity, Enjoyment

Calvin Eads named to Indianapolis Colts Academic Team

The Indiana Football Coaches Association Board of Directors recently announced that Plymouth High School football player, Calvin Eads, has been named to the Indianapolis Colts Academic Team. Calvin and the other recipients will be honored in Indianapolis on December 19th at halftime against the Jacksonville Jaguars. There were a total of 98 student athletes nominated for this prestigious award and only 24 team members were chosen. GPA, class rank, and test scores were used by the Colts to select the team members. Calvin is the first Plymouth High School student to make this team.
We would like to congratulate Calvin and the Plymouth High School Athletic Department for their dedication to academics.

Core Values: High Expectations, Team Player

Delta Theta Tau Cookie Walk

Delta Theta Tau Cookie Walk will be held at Webster Elementary on December 4, 2010, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Students from the choirs of Webster Elementary and Riverside Intermediate will be singing and you will be able to have your picture taken with Santa!

Core Values: Team Player, Enjoyment

Denver & The Mile High Orchestra

Plymouth alum Denver Bierman will be performing a Christmas concert with Denver & the Mile High Orchestra on December 2, 2010, 7:00 p.m., at the Plymouth Wesleyan Church. Below is a link to the band performing at their Christmas concert. Check it out!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4zwp9rqWCo

Core Values: Team Player, Enjoyment

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

The Holiday Season will be kicked off Friday November 26th in downtown Plymouth with the Annual Christmas tree lighting.
The Festivities begin at 5:45 with the carolers from PHS, at 6:15 the fire truck with Santa arrives downtown. The Marshall County Museum will have Santa there for a visit and the trains will be running that evening.

Hot Chocolate and cookies will be served at The IN/spirative Art Center and Mrs. Clause will be there available for photo ops at 6:30.

Many stores will be open until 8 PM for Holiday Shopping.

Core Values: Enjoyment

ISTEP Online Practice

The Indiana Department of Education has just launched a web-based version of the ISTEP+ Online, it allows students, teachers and parents to see and take a “working” version the ISTEP+ Online test. All of the tools and features that students will see and use are a part of the site. This is a great way for everyone to become familiar with what the ISTEP+ Tests looks like online.
You are invited to visit http://www.doe.in.gov/assessment/3-8_gqe_resources.html to access “Experience ISTEP+ Online”.
· Features of Experience ISTEP+ Online include:
· Grade-specific manipulatives
· Option Eliminator, Highlighter and Eraser tools
· Sample test experience based on content areas assessed
· How to mark an answer
· How to mark an item for later review
Please allow a chance for students to become familiar with the ISTEP+ Online environment. An official login is not needed to participate. Simply click “Log in” once a grade level has been selected to access this experience.
If you have any questions about Experience ISTEP+ Online please call us at 317-232-9050 or email us at istep@doe.in.gov

Plymouth Spell Bowl Team 4th in State

The Plymouth Spell Bowl Team finished 4th in the State with a score of 74 and just 3 points away from 2nd place. Coach Amy Schmeltz was very pleased with their performance. "It was their highest score of the season. They are a very young team, so we hope to be here again next year." Near perfect spellers were Zach Mahan and Elizabeth Oviedo. Perfect spellers were Grace Stokes, Nate Mahan, Kelsey Schnieders, and Pauline Dagaas. Ten spellers perform at state with the other students serving as alternates. The spellers for Plymouth were Elizabeth Oviedo, Dana Hall, Krissy Wieringa, Nate Mahan, Zach Mahan, Ashley Stokes, Pauline Dagaas, Kelsey Schnieders, Abby Schumacher, and Grace Stokes. Plymouth's alternates were Tori Godwin, Dakota Bradley, Olivia Houin, Angel Figueroa, Rachel Garcia, and Zandra Norris. The team would also like to thank everyone for their support.

Core Values: Commitment to Students, Team Player

Spell Bowl Team Heads to State

Fifteen members of the Plymouth High School Spell Bowl Team will travel to Indianapolis for the State Spelling Championship for the first time in school history. Good luck to all of the spellers and Coach Schmeltz!

Washington & Webster Honored at Indiana State House

Congratulations to Washington and Webster Elementary Schools. Both will be honored at the Indiana State House today for having the highest growth of any elementary school in the county. Washington Elementary also recorded the third highest academic growth of any elementary school in Indiana!

Core Values: Commitment to Students

Red Ribbon Week

Jefferson Elementary and Webster Elementary are "PAWS"itively Drug Free!
Webster's 4th grade student council (pictured) along with our social worker, Mrs. Bendy, coordinated a collection drive for items to be delivered to the Marshall County Humane Society. A total of 113 items were collected during the annual Red Ribbon Week.

Webster students, Mackenzie Umbaugh and Sienna Tremblay, presented pet item donations to the Marshall County Humane Society. These items were collected by Jefferson and Webster Student Council members during the week of Red Ribbon Week. Our theme for the week was “We are Paws-itively drug free!” We collected pet items as a way to be positive role models to others. Mackenzie and Sienna are 4th grade Webster Student Council members and they volunteer at the Humane Society every Friday. They are holding two kittens that are currently available for adoption at the Humane Society.

Jefferson 4th Grade Student Council members recently celebrated Red Ribbon Week by being “paws”-itive role models to others in our community. Students collected pet items to send to our local Humane Society.
The following students are pictured:(front row) Alexandria Spark, Ian Arveson, Macy Carter, Katy Smith, Grace Allmon, Gillian Robertson, Makena Carmichael, Austin Richey, Ashton Darnell (middle row) Israel Martinez, Samuel Frias, Nathanael Celmer, Makayla Mahoney, Christopher Everly, Blake Reed, Alyssa Buzzard, (back row) Taylor Humphrey, Lily Cochern, Hailey Boal, Harold Button III, Trenton Arveson, Daniel Stauffer, Paytyn Dodson, Mercedes Bastardo, and Taylor Williams.

Core Values: Integrity, Team Player

Warm-Up Marshall County

Pride of Plymouth Community Performance

The State competition bound “Pride of Plymouth Marching Band” will give a community performance on Friday, October 29, 2010, at 8:30 pm at the “Rock Pile” (the Plymouth High School Football Stadium.) The students, faculty and staff have been practicing very hard in preparation for this competition. Your support would be greatly appreciated and you are going to see a great show. Hope to see you at the Rock Pile.

Core Values: High Expectations, Enjoyment

Penny War Held for United Way

Students at Riverside Intermediate School recently held a Penny War to collect dollars for United Way. Melissa Owen received the check from Travis Owen. Also in the picture from left to right: Keagan Thomas, Steven Hilty, Benji Nixon, Trevor Grimmet, and Seth Grimmet.

Core Values: Caring, Team Player

Pride of Plymouth Strikes Again!

The Pride of Plymouth made PHS history on Saturday!

The marching band advanced to the ISSMA State Finals for the first time in school history! The band had an outstanding show at Semi-State, winning the Music Effect category (out of all 20 schools involved) and almost doing the same in Visual (marching).

The state finals will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on October 30th.

The band is scheduled to compete at 2:59 pm at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on October 30, 2010, with the awards ceremony held at 3:30 pm. Ticket prices are $20.00 for adults and $18.00 for students and may be purchased in the Plymouth High School office from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm October 26 through October 29 or at the venue. Doors open at 9:00 am.

We congratulate the Pride of Plymouth band and staff on a great season and a job well done.

Core Values: High Expectations, Enjoyment

Final Marshall Co. Health Department Immunization Clinic Information

Marshall County Health Department will have a final immunization clinic on Wed. Oct. 27th, 2010, at Plymouth High School from 1-3 pm for Plymouth High School students only and from 4-6 pm for the public and all other Plymouth Community Schools students. Permission forms were mailed home to those students who still had INCOMPLETE immunization records. Permission forms can be found on the main corporation web site, as well as Plymouth High School, Lincoln Jr. High and Riverside Intermediate School web sites. Forms must be signed and completed by parents and returned to the school nurse prior to the clinic at Plymouth High School.

From 4-6 pm the clinic will be open to the public and students from Lincoln Jr. High, Riverside Intermediate School and any kindergarten students who need immunized. Only TDAP, MENACTRA, VARICELLA and KINDERGARTEN SHOTS will be given. No baby shots, preschool shots or shots for ages 6-10 year olds will be given. Forms were also mailed to Lincoln Jr. High students. Please bring those forms to clinic with a copy of your child's immunization record.

The clinic will take place in the multi-purpose room. Enter at the north doors (#5) and follow signs to the multi- purpose room.

If your child has received their immunizations at a local physician’s office, we do not have access to that information. You will need to provide a copy of immunizations to the building nurse.

Plymouth Community School Corporation will exclude students who do not have a completed immunization record on file on November 15th at 3:30 pm. This means on Nov. 16th your child will not be allowed to return to school until you have provided proof of immunization to the building nurse.

If you have questions regarding your child's record, please contact the building nurse.

Pride of Plymouth Qualifies for Semi-State Competition

The Plymouth High School "Pride of Plymouth" Marching Band has qualified for the semi-state competition to be held this Saturday, October 23, 2010. Their performance time is scheduled for 4:15 p.m. at Plainfield High School, Plainfield, IN. For driving directions, click on the following link. Congratulations Pride of Plymouth.

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&safe=active&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=0,0,18187061279601133450&fb=1&hq=plainfield+high+school&hnear=Indiana&gl=us&daddr=1+Red+Pride+Drive,+Plainfield,+IN+46168&geocode=763839984654055598,39.683039,-86.377247&ei=QD2_TKKcJIL6lwfC9NThBw&sa=X&oi=local_result&ct=directions-to&resnum=2&ved=0CCcQngIwAQ

Core Values: High Expectation, Enjoyment

Spell Bowl Team Headed to State Finals

We would like to announce that the Plymouth High School Spell Bowl team has qualified for the State Championships. Below are the area results for Class 2.










Area Contest Results - Class 2

Top Seven schools are State Finalists (as follows including scores)

John Glenn High School - Walkerton - 84

Bishop Dwenger High School - Fort Wayne - 75

Plymouth High School - Plymouth -71

Gibson Southern High School - Ft. Branch - 71

South Vermillion High School - Clinton - 69

New Prairie High School - New Carlisle - 66

Western High School - Russiaville - 63

The Indiana Academic Spell Bowl state finals will be held November 13, 2010, at Loeb Playhouse, Purdue University Campus, West Lafayette, Indiana.

Great job and good luck Spell Bowl Team!

Core Values: Commitment to Students, High Expectations

2010 New Staff

Emily Samuelson is the new science teacher at Lincoln Jr. High School. She is a graduate of Indiana University -South Bend.

Emily is married to Mark. Mark grew up close to Plymouth and his family owns a dairy farm close to town. Emily’s step-daughter will be in 4th grade at Culver Elementary.

Emily is excited to be teaching in Plymouth because the community values education and producing great, well-rounded citizens. She looks forward to getting to know the students and their families through the fun of science.

Core Value: High Expectations

Pride of Plymouth Band Results

Congrats to the Pride of Plymouth Marching Band!!!

The students advanced out of the ISSMA Regional Contest and on to Semi-State. This is only the second time in PHS history that the marching band has made it out of Regionals (PHS advanced two years ago).

Pride of Plymouth also ranked near the top of the field (17 bands) and that will place the band in a great position for a hopeful FIRST-EVER trip to state finals.

The band will compete against 19 other schools for a trip to state finals this weekend at the ISSMA Semi-State held at Plainfield H.S. 10 (of the 20) Semi-State bands will advance to the ISSMA State Finals.

Core Value: Enjoyment and High Expectations

PHS Spell Bowl Results

The Plymouth High School spell bowl team scored their first win ever at the Northern Lakes Conference invitational held at NorthWood. The won with a score of 72 points. From word #1 a-b-h-o-r-r-e-d to word #90 p-h-a-r-m-a-c-o-p-o-e-i-a, the PHS team produced a grade A performance. Good luck at regionals next Monday! The team is coached by Amy Schmeltz.

First row: Tori Godwin, Pauline Dagaas, Olivia Houin, Angel Figueroa

Second row: Krissy Wieringa, Kelsey Schnieders, Abby Schumacher, Grace Stokes, Ashley Stokes, Zach Mahan, and Rachael Garcia
Back row: Dakota Bradley, Elizabeth Oviedo, and Nate Mahan

The Plymouth High School spell bowl team had three perfect spellers at the competition. They were Pauline Dagaas. Grace Stokes, and Nate Mahan.

Two students spelled 8 out of the 9 difficult words correct. The near perfect spellers were Zach Mahan and Elizabeth Oviedo.

Core Value: High Expectations

PHS Fall Choir Concert

This Sunday, Oct. 10th, @ 3:00 in the PHS Auditorium, the Vocal Department will be hosting our Fall Choir Concert.

We are featuring 3 choirs this year, the PHS Chorale, the Crimson Connection and our new choir, PHS Counterpoint.

The show is an exciting celebration of music. Admission is free.

Core Value: Enjoyment

Marshall Co Health Department - Vaccination Clinic

LOCATION: Marshall County Building
112 W Jefferson Street Rm 103
Plymouth, IN 46563

WALK-IN VACCINATION CLINIC
For grades 6th – 12th and Kindergarten

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 13TH, 2010
MONDAY OCTOBER 18TH, 2010
4 P.M. – 6 P.M.

VACCINATION RECORDS REQUIRED!!!!!!!!!!

ONLY TDAP, MENINGOCOCCAL, VARICELLA (CHICKEN POX) AND KINDERGARTEN SHOTS WILL BE GIVEN TO WEDNESDAY WALK-INS.

· No Baby Shots
· No Preschool Shots
· No Shots for ages 6,7,8,9, & 10 yr olds !

Core Value: Integrity

2010 New Staff

Nicole Walters is the new reading teacher at Menominee Elementary. She is a graduate of Purdue University.

Nicole is the oldest of her siblings. She has a brother that will be a senior at Tri-State and another brother who will be a junior at Ball State.

Nicole is pleased to be teaching in Plymouth because it has a strong sense of community and family. Plymouth Community School Corporation seems like a great corporation to grow and learn and become a better educator.

Core Value: High Expectations

Vote for Tyler Langdon

Tyler Langdon (2004 PHS graduate) is in Hollywood trying to make it to stardom. He appears to be on his way! In fact, he has been nominated by the Hollywood Film Festival for the 2010 Discovery Award (an award given to the up-and-coming star). It is the first award of the award season and is like the Golden Globes in that the “people” vote.

Please take a few second to vote. There are four categories - top movie, top female, top male, and top new star.

The web address to vote is:

http://movies.yahoo.com/hollywood-movie-awards

Core Value: High Expectations

Menominee Elementary - Good News

The National Association of State Title I Director’s Title I Schools Recognition Program for a second year in a row has chosen Menominee Elementary school as one of the schools in the running to represent the state’s Title I schools that have made the most progress in significantly closing the achievement gap between student subgroups.

· Ten schools in the state of Indiana have been identified for site visits based on a review of the following criteria:
· Student Achievement Data (Exemplary Progress);
· Meets or Exceeds Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) 2008-2009 and 2009-2010;
· Poverty Data of 35% or higher;

Menominee’s principal, Mr. Mike Dunn, will undergo a phone interview with the State Title I Director. If the interview goes well, the Title I Director and a few staff members will do an onsite visit at Menominee Elementary School. One school in the state of Indiana will then be chosen as Indiana’s top Title I School. If chosen as the top school, Menominee Elementary School will be recognized at the National Title I Conference which will be held in Tampa, Florida on January 31-Februray 3, 2011.

In the last three years, four Plymouth Elementary Schools have been chosen as a participant in the first part of this process. Menominee and Washington Schools last year made it to the site visit and were recognized as one of the top four Title I schools in the state. Two years ago, Webster Elementary School was chosen Top Title I School in Indiana.

Core Value: Commitment to Students

Pride of Plymouth Band Results

The band advanced out of the ISSMA District competition this weekend hosted by Concord H.S. The band will now move on to the ISSMA Regional contest on the 16th.

Plymouth competed against 7 schools on Saturday and earned a Gold Award rating. This advanced the band to Regionals. The "Pride of Plymouth" also won 2 of the 3 caption awards (Best Music and Best Visual).

At the Regional event on October 16th, there will be 17 schools competing for 10 spots in the ISSMA Semi-State competition. Plymouth band received a GREAT "seating" in the Regional contest and will perform 16th out of the 17 bands at the event.

Congrats to the Pride of Plymouth marching band!

Core Value: High Expectations

Purdue, school districts get $6.7 million grant to improve science education

Press Release:

September 21, 2010

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University and four Indiana school districts have received the first three years of a five year $6.7 million National Science Foundation grant to improve science learning in third through sixth grades.

The work will focus on the use of engineering design-based teaching. The concept teaches problem solving in math and science through design projects.

Partnering in the effort are Purdue's colleges of Education, Engineering, Science and Technology, the Discovery Learning Research Center, regional industries, and the Lafayette, Tippecanoe, Taylor Community and Plymouth school corporations.

During the five-year project, engineering, science, technology and education faculty will interact with 200 elementary and intermediate school teachers, 100 student teachers and 5,000 students. In the final year, the project will be expanded to additional school districts.
"The use of engineering design principles to affect how science and math are taught has been demonstrated for higher grad levels," said Keith Bowman, head of the School of Materials Engineering and the project leader. "But it is almost nonexistent in elementary classrooms. With the support of our school corporation partners, we seek to develop a program that will prepare teachers to impact students earlier in their academic development."

Goals of the project are to improve science learning in grades 3-6 through implementation of engineering design, prepare practicing and prospective teachers to use a design-based curriculum, adapt existing materials and tasks and develop new ones where necessary, and provide an understanding of how engineering design is used by teachers to teach science and students to learn science.

"Engineering design-based standards are being adopted across the nation. Within the next year, elementary school science teachers, including those in Indiana, will be required to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and practices needed to teach science through engineering design," said Brenda Capobianco, an associate professor of curriculum and instruction in the College of Education and project co-leader. "Our work will create Indiana's first engineering design-based model for science teacher professional development at both the preservice and inservice levels and an innovative, research-based program for using engineering design-based strategies."

The funding comes through NSF’s Math and Science Partnership program, a research and development effort that supports innovative partnerships to improve K-12 student achievement in mathematics and science.

Writer: Judith Barra Austin, 765-494-2432, jbaustin@purdue.edu
Sources: Keith Bowman, 765-494-4100, kbowman@purdue.edu
Brenda Capobianco, 765-494-9635, bcapo@purdue.edu

Related Web sites:
Purdue University Home Page: http://www.purdue.edu

Core Value: Team Player

PHS Speech Team

The National Forensic League recently recognized the PHS Speech Team for placing in the top .5% of NFL chapters nationwide and earning membership in the NFL's prestigious Societe' De 400.

In addition, the Plymouth Speech Team earned the leading Chapter Award in the Northwest Indiana district.

Congratulations to the coaches and students of the Plymouth High School Speech Team.

Core Value: High Expectations