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.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
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.
Monday, August 28, 2006
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.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
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.
Friday, August 18, 2006
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 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.
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.
Monday, August 07, 2006
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.
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.
Monday, July 31, 2006
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.
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.
Monday, June 19, 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.
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.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Class Happenings
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.
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.
Monday, May 08, 2006
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.
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.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
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.
Blog Bits
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.
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.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Monday, April 17, 2006
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.
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.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Blog Bits
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.
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.
Monday, April 03, 2006
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.
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.
Friday, March 31, 2006
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.
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.
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