The District News

The District News
WINTER EDITION 2012
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The holidays and winter are upon us. As I write this super’s corner the morning temperatures are in the low twenties. Every year
we all know it is coming but we hope it holds off for a while.
If weather becomes a safety issue I will be making decisions about closing the schools. I try to make the decision the night before
as early as possible so everyone has time to plan. Arrival time of storms sometimes makes this impossible. If you have not seen a
notice of school closing by 6 AM we will be having school that day. We will use the automated calling system as we have in the
past to notify you of a closure. If I make the decision to close school the night before, I will send out the call that night, but not
after 10:30 PM. If I make the decision in the morning I will send out the call in the morning, but not before 5:30 AM. I will
contact radio and TV stations as soon as I make a decision. If the times of the calls are not soon enough, you may get the notice
before those times at the different media outlets. You do not have to wait for the news cast as most stations scroll the notices as
soon as they receive them. Most of the stations now also post the notices to their websites so you do not have to wait for it to
scroll through hundreds of different notices. Here are the stations I contact: KPR/KANU, Cable Channel 6, KLWN AM1320,
WIBW TV13, WIBW AM580, WIBW FM94.5, LJW website, KMBC TV9, KCTV TV5, WDAF TV4, KSHB TV41, KMBZ
AM980, KCMO AM710, KCUR FM89.3, LAZER FM105.9, The BULL FM92.9, KSNT TV27, KTKA TV49, KTMJ TV43,
KOFO AM1220, The Baldwin City Signal Website, The USD 348 Website, The USD 348 Twitter Page, and The USD 348
Facebook Page. The automated phone call system is only as good as the information we have in our power school system. If you
have changed phone numbers or e-mail address recently you will need to contact your child's school and update the number or
address. If you do not receive a call or it seems not to work correctly please contact the schools and let us know so we may have
it fixed for the next time. Hopefully we have no snow days, but in fifteen years as a superintendent only two of those years we
had none. On “snow days” the only staff that report to work are our custodial and maintenance staff. You will not be able to
contact someone at the schools that day. Our buildings are closed to the public that day and no activities will take place. The
activity director attempts to reschedule those activities and when the activity is officially rescheduled a message will be sent out.
Over the past few months I have been trying to keep a Superintendent’s Blog on the USD 348 website. I speak about different
topics going on in the school district and usually add a few personal items. Sometime check it out.
Happy Holidays to all,
Paul Dorathy
District Office
708 Chapel Street
PO Box 67, Baldwin City, KS 66006
Phone: 785-594-2721
www.usd348.com
“To have ideas is to gather flowers. To think is to weave
them into garlands.”
Anne-Sophie Swetchine
Russian writer
Hours: Monday - Friday - 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Baldwin City School District is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Baldwin City USD 348 does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color,
national origin, age, religion, disabilities, marital status or status as a veteran.
ALL DISTRICT NEWS
ACTIVITY USER FEE
Individuals participating in school activities will be charged an activity user fee. To many Kansans, the activity fee is equated with “pay to play”.
Students in competitive activities that involve travel to other schools at the high school and junior high level will be charged $40.00 per person,
per activity. This also includes Scholars Bowl. All high school sports, as well as all junior high school sports (not intramural) will be assessed
the fee.
ACTIVITY ACCIDENT INSURANCE
Accident insurance coverage through the Kansas State High School Activities Association covers all students participating in inter-scholastic
activities. This is a secondary insurance and covers some medical bills not covered by your primary insurance policy. It is the family’s
responsibility to file all claims. To obtain a claim form, please contact the activities office at 785-594-2727.
PHYSICAL NEEDED
All students planning to participate in any inter-scholastic activity, grades 7-12, must have a completed and fully signed KSHSAA physical exam
form turned in to the BHS office or the BJHS office before the first practice. This form must be signed by the doctor, parent and athlete. Physical
exams are not needed for P.E. classes. If you have any questions, please contact Tami Estes or Gary Stevanus at 785-594-2727.
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS & PRIVACY ACT
For purpose of FERPA, USD 348 has designated certain information contained in educational records as directory information, which may be
disclosed for any purpose without your consent. The following information is considered directory information: name, address, telephone
numbers, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates
of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous school attended by the student, class designation, major field of study, and
photographs. You have a right to refuse to permit the designation of any or all of the above information as directory information. If you refuse,
you must file written notification to this effect with USD 348 on or before the first day of school. If a refusal is not filed, USD 348 assumes that
there is no objection to the release of the directory information designated.
NONDISCRIMINATION NOTICE
In attendance with federal and state law, it is the policy of USD 348 that no student applicant, employee or other person will be discriminated
against or harassed on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age or disability. This policy covers all aspects of
admission, access, treatment and employment in all school district programs and activities. USD 348 has procedures regarding the referral,
evaluation and placement of individuals with disabilities who are eligible for services under federal law.
The person responsible for coordinating school compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973, Title 6f the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Title 9 of the Educational Amendments of 1972, is Paul Dorathy, Superintendent, Baldwin City
USD 348, 708 Chapel Street, P.O. Box 67, Baldwin City, KS 66006, 785- 594-2721. Contact this person if you have questions about equal
opportunity and nondiscrimination or contact the Kansas State Board of Education, 120 SE 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66612 (telephone:
785-296-3202), or Region 7 Officer of Civil Rights, 10220 N. Executive Hill Dr., 8th Floor, Kansas City, MO 64153-1367 (telephone:
816-891-8026: TDD 816-374-6461). Persons with impaired hearing or speech may also contact the above parties through the Kansas Relay
Center at 800-166-3777.
SPECIAL EDUCATION INFORMATION
Federal and state laws guarantee “a free appropriate public education” to all children with disabilities, regardless of the severity. These laws
apply to all children who have visual, auditory, health or physical impairments, as well as those who have speech and language, emotional and
learning disabilities and those who are mentally retarded. The law also requires that, “to the maximum extent appropriate, handicapped children,
are educated with children who are not handicapped.” The East Central Kansas Cooperative in Education provides special education to student’s
ages 3-21 with special needs in the Baldwin, Eudora and Wellsville School Districts. The ECK Cooperative employs school psychologists,
speech therapists, occupational and physical therapists, social workers, as well as a number of special education teachers trained to work with
various exceptionalities. The Cooperative also serves children with high intellectual ability by providing enrichment and accelerated activities to
augment the school’s curriculum. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s needs and live in the Baldwin, Eudora, or Wellsville
school districts, contact the East Central Kansas Cooperative in Education at 785-594-2737, or your school principal.
NOTICE TO PARENTS OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Student files maintained by the East Central Kansas Cooperative in Education are considered to be confidential. Safeguards and procedures to
govern access of pupil records to all parents have been established within the schools and the Cooperative Office. These procedures are
consistent with the intent of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) as amended and the individuals with Disabilities
Education Act (IDEA). Special education files are maintained at the Cooperative Office by the director of the Cooperative and in each of the
schools of participating districts by the building principals. A list of the types and locations of education records collected, used and maintained
by the Cooperative as well as the officials responsible is available to parents or eligible student upon request. Records shall be released without
prior consent only to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is
to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official has a legitimate education interest if the official needs to review an
education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the Cooperative discloses education records without
consent to officials or another school district in which a student intends to seek to enroll. Under regulations of IDEA, parents or eligible students
have the right to: a) inspect and review the student’s record; b) request an amendment of the student’s education records; c) refuse to consent to
disclosure of personally identifiable information, except to the extent that federal laws authorize disclosure without consent; d) file a complaint with
the Kansas State Board of Education or the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures to comply with state and federal
confidentiality policies and procedures. Policies are in English but may be translated if needed. Contact the Cooperative Office at
785-594-2737 for further information.
ASBESTOS INFORMATION
The management Plan for Asbestos in School is located in the principal’s office in each attendance center and in the District Office. Also, the
abatement project manuals for Baldwin High School Industrial Arts building and Baldwin Elementary Primary Center are located in the District
Office. Anyone who would like to review these plans is invited to make the request in person at the appropriate center during business hours
Monday through Friday. Section 763.85 (b) or the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) requires that re-inspections be done “at
least every three years”. The first 3-year re-inspection was completed June 1, 1992. The second re-inspection was completed June 5, 1995. The
third re-inspection was completed December 9, 1997. The fourth re-inspection was completed May 15, 2001. The fifth re-inspection was
completed June 16, 2004. The sixth re-inspection was completed December 18, 2006.
FREE SCREENING FOR CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS OF AGE
USD 348 and the East Central Kansas Cooperative in Education conduct monthly screenings for children under 5 years of age. The next screenings
will be January 11, February 1 and March 1 at BES-PC. Areas screened include: motor skills, self-help skills, speech-language skills, personalsocial skill, pre-academic skills, hearing and vision. Please call the BES-PC office at 594-2444 to schedule an appointment.
TRANSPORTATION NEWS
Our primary concern at all times is the safety and welfare of the children. With winter quickly approaching, I would like to remind everyone . . .
On days of extreme cold, ice, heavy rain and/or snow, delays should be expected. Drivers are repeatedly instructed to drive at a speed
commensurate with the prevailing road and/or weather conditions. Also, the number of mechanical problems may increase when the weather is
cold and/or wet.
Remember to call the Bus Garage @ (785) 594-7433 (RIDE) if you DO NOT need transportation.
We quickly accumulate hats, gloves, coats, backbacks, lunch boxes and other miscellaneous items. If you label your child's items, it makes it easier
to return them. Reviewing the Transportation Handbook located on the District Website is helpful to assure the trip to and from school is as timely, safe and
pleasant as possible.
Each student requesting transportation service must complete a "Bus Rider Transportation Form" that is available at: http://usd348.com/home/
forms. Please submit completed forms to the Transportation Department. Any changes to their designated location at any time throughout the
school year requires completion of a new form. If you have questions, concerns or comments please contact, Tracy Rockers, Director of Transportation at (785) 594-RIDE (7433) or feel free to
stop by the Bus Garage at 416 Quayle, Baldwin City, KS.
FINANCE NEWS: The district is currently refinancing a portion of our 2008 Bonds for a net savings of $480,717. The interest rate is decreasing from 5.25% to an
average of 2.44%. If interest rates remain favorable we will pursue refinancing additional bonds in 2013. By lowering the total cost of our bond
issues, it helps control the mill levy within the Bond & Interest fund.
This year 31% of our bond and interest payments are being paid with state aid. The balance is paid with taxes levied and a small amount of interest
revenue. Bond and interest payments for the 2012/13 fiscal year total $1,900,875.
STAYING HEALTHY
During cold and flu season, remember to do those things which help prevent your child from being ill. Talk to them about hand-washing, provide
hand sanitizer if desired. Also, send water bottles to school with your child but remember to wash thoroughly and frequently. Keep your child
home for at least 24 hours after fever is gone without medication. Make sure your child is getting plenty of rest and eating properly.
415 Eisenhower
P.O. Box 67
Baldwin City, KS 66006
Office: 785-594-2725
Fax: 785-594-2858
BALDWIN HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
We are winding up a successful first semester of the 2012-2013 academic year. Our students have grown mentally and physically and are one
semester closer to being ready to move onto their next phase of life. We are currently completing our junior class assessments and we are very
pleased with the results of our students. It is our winter extracurricular season so basketball and wrestling are busy with regular events. This
season is also a time of concerts and celebrations. We just completed a band concert and we will have a choir concert on January 17. The Debate
and Scholars Bowl season is in full swing as well. Looking forward to January means the start of a new semester here at the high school. January
8 is the day students begin. There is always a period of adjustment for students with new teachers and/or new classes. We point out to our students
that this is another new beginning and an opportunity to get off to a good start. Our winter sports schedule will dominate the evening activities.
Some highlights include the BIT Boy's Basketball Tournament January 15 – 19, the BIT Wrestling Tournament on January 26, Scholars Bowl
Regional is on January 31, Regional and State Wrestling toward the end of February and Sub-State and State Basketball Tournaments at the end of
February and the beginning of March. Our band has been invited to perform at Disney World in Florida and will do so in the middle of January.
I hope each of you has a great holiday season!
Rob McKim - Principal
ACTIVITY FEES
A $40.00 activity user fee for Spring sports is due Wednesday, March 6, 2013.
SCHOOL MESSENGER
Remember you can manage your School Messenger parent contact information for upcoming weather cancellations or automated messages from
BHS. You can also add email or texts to this service. Check the USD 348 website for the School Messenger Notification Instructions at
usd348.com, click on the tab “For Parents”.
PIONEER SENIOR INFORMATION
All senior parents can contact Jordan Christian (jc18@usd348.com) for info & deadlines about senior pictures, senior quotes, and senior salutes for
the 100th BHS Pioneer.
PIONEER SALES INFORMATION
BHS Pioneer yearbooks are on sale for $52 or $60 with a name stamped on the cover. Bring check written to BHS Pioneer to Mr. Harris in room
117 or the BHS main office. Find BHS Pioneer on Facebook for more info and an updated sales list to see if you have ordered yours yet or not.
BULLDOG BULLETIN ONLINE
For stories, features, photos, results, and more.....go to www.bulldogbulletinonline.com
WRESTLING
The Bulldog wrestling team will host the 12th Annual BIT in the BJHS gym on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013. The tournament will involve 16 teams and
many of the state's top-ranked teams wrestlers from 5A, 4A, and Missouri.
CHARACTER EDUCATION
Character Education at Baldwin High School is in full swing. The Power2Achieve curriculum is continuing to be taught during the Freshmen
Health classes on Mondays. The Sophmores participate in Character education during seminar every other Monday. Our current topic is using
effective communication skills.
COUNSELING NEWS
Counselor Assignments for the 2012-2013 school year, Mrs. Melody Hoffsommer (mhoffsommer@usd348.com or ext. 210) will be working
with freshmen and juniors and Mrs. Debbie Baldwin (dbaldwin@usd348.com or ext. 211) will be working with sophomores and seniors.
ACT Test Dates:
Regular Registration
Late Registration
February 9, 2013
April 13, 2013
June 8, 2013
January 11, 2013
March 8, 2013 May 3, 2013
Jan. 12-18, 2013
March 9-22, 2013
May 4-17, 2013
To learn more about the ACT, or to register for the test, visit www.actstudent.org
Juniors and Seniors: Don't forget to sign up to take the February ACT by January 11.
The ACT is a college entrance exam for juniors and seniors who are considering attending college. To attend a State of Kansas Public University
(Wichita State, University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Emporia State University, Pittsburgh State University and Fort Hays State
University) it is recommended students score a composite of 21 or better, or take Qualified Admissions classes while at BHS, or be in the top 1/3 of
their graduating class. The test results are also used for scholarship consideration.
Private Colleges and Universities each have their own criteria for admitting students. It usually consists of ACT score, grade point average and
interviews. It is recommended you research on the internet to discover what the criteria is for the schools you are interested in, or call the business
office at that school for more information.
Students who plan on attending a community college do not have to take the ACT. However, if they do not, they are required to take the Compass
Test of Skills in Math, Reading and Writing. This test can be taken in a relatively short time, on the college campus of their choice or in the
computer lab for instant feedback. It is a much less rigorous test than the ACT.
Seniors: You should be in the process of sending college applications. This will open the lines of communication between you and the schools
you are interested in. Pay close attention to deadlines in those communiques. Don't forget, your parents can estimate how much they will have to
pay for your college education by going to FAFSA4caster and setting up an account. Parents cannot complete and send actual FAFSA
information until after January 1, 2013. The deadline for having the FAFSA completed is March 1, 2013.
Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors are eligible to take the Armed Services Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) on January 17, 2013. It is the entrance test
for the military but it also has a great career component that all students would benefit from. Sign up in the Counseling Office by January 9. The
ASVAB is free and students will be excused from their morning classes to participate. It takes approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours and starts at 8:15 AM.
COLLEGE GOAL SUNDAY
Don't forget—College Goal Sunday is scheduled for Sunday, February 24, 2103, from 2:00-4:00 PM. Learn about how to fill out the FAFSA and
sign up to win a $500 scholarship just for being there. Locations include Lawrence, Topeka, Overland Park and Kansas City, Kansas. Visit
www.collegegoal.org for more information.
JCCC COLLEGE NOW
Composition II students interested in enrolling for dual credit through JCCC will receive information and enrollment materials when classes resume
on January 8. Additional information can be found on the website at www.jccc.edu/collegenow. Deadline for enrollment and payment is February
8. Encourage your student to take care of this well before the deadline!!! Contact Mrs. Baldwin, counselor with any questions at 594-2725 ext. 211
or dbaldwin@usd348.com.
PRE-ENROLLMENT
We will be pre-enrolling for next year’s classes during the month of February. All students will need to enroll online through Power School. In
mid-February, students will receive a course description booklet, which will include online pre-enrollment directions. Parents and students are
reminded to thoroughly read course descriptions and make selections for next year’s classes very carefully. The master schedule is created from
these pre-enrollment selections, therefore changes will only be made if students do not have the required pre-requisites, conflicts appearing due to
computer error, health reasons or if changes are needed in order to meet graduation requirements. Please don’t hesitate to call your student’s
assigned counselor if you have any questions about pre-enrollment.
ACADEMIC NIGHT
Recognition for outstanding academic performance is given at the Academic Banquet held the spring semester. This is an opportunity for BHS to
celebrate those students who have excelled academically. The 32nd Annual Academic Banquet will take place on Wednesday, April 24 at 7:00 PM
in the new Performing Arts Center. In order to be invited, a student must have earned at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for the total of all high school
classes completed by the end of the first semester of that school year. A student must be enrolled full-time and have no F’s on their transcript for the
proceeding two semesters to be invited. The GPA is calculated and defined by Power School. Students and parents will be invited to attend via
letter. All students invited to the Honor Banquet will receive a certificate and students with a 3.5 or better for at least three semesters will receive an
academic letter or gold pin.
SENIOR CHECKLIST
Winter:
As soon after January 1 as possible, complete and submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), along with any other financial
aid applications your school(s) of choice my require. You can complete the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov or on paper, but completing the
application online is faster and easier. You should submit your FAFSA by the earliest financial aid deadline of the schools to which you are
applying, usually by March 1 in Kansas.
Encourage your parents to complete income tax forms early so filling out the FAFSA forms is easier. If they have not filled out tax forms, they can
provide estimated information on your FAFSA form.
If you have questions about the federal student aid programs, call 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243).
After you submit the FAFSA, you should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) within 3 days to three weeks. Quickly make any necessary
corrections and submit them to the FAFSA processor.
Complete any last minute scholarship applications.
Spring:
If you have not already visited colleges then do so. If you have not applied to any colleges—do so. However, understand that it might be too late to
be accepted into these institutions or to receive financial aid packages. Most community colleges have a much later deadline and will admit
students in the summer.
Review your college acceptances and compare the college's financial aid packages (usually you will receive these in late March or early April).
Contact a school's financial aid office if you have questions about the aid that school has offered you. In fact, getting to know your financial aid
staff early is a good idea no matter what—they can tell you about deadlines, other aid for which you might wish to apply and important paperwork
you might need to submit.
Apply for Local Scholarships. Most of these will be advertised on the District website, under counseling then scholarship headings, through school
email and through School Messenger. Be sure to meet deadlines and follow the application directions carefully.
When you decide which school you want to attend, notify that school of your commitment and submit any required financial deposit. Many
schools require this notification and deposit by May 1.
KEY SCHOLARSHIP RESOURCES:
www.fastweb.com www.finaid.org/scholarshipscams www.finaid.org/taxbenefits
www.finaid.org/websearch www.ftc.gov/scholarshipscams www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p970.pdf
www.finaid.org/scholarships
TOP TEN MOST UNUSUAL SCHOLARSHIPS:
Scholarship for Left-Handed Students Patrick Kerr Skateboard Scholarships
National Beef Ambassador Program
Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck at Prom Contest
National Marbles Tournament Scholarships
TOP TEN SCHOLARSHIPS THAT DON'T NEED AN A:
U.S. Department of Education (Federal Student Aid) Horatio Alger Association Scholarships
Girls Going Places Scholarships
Americanism Essay Contest
Red Vines Drawing Contest
David Letterman Telecommunications Scholarships Zolp Scholarships
Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award Klingon Language Institute Scholarships
Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarships
AXA Achievement Scholarship Program
Ayn Rand Institute
Holocaust Remembrance Project Essay Contest AFSA National Scholarship Essay Contest Community Foundation Scholarships
ATTENTION:
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
WHO: JUNIORS, SENIORS AND PARENTS
WHAT: FINANCIAL AID NIGHT
WHEN: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013 AT 7:00 PM
WHERE: PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, BJHS
WHY?
To gain a better understanding of financial aid opportunities available to students
Filing the FAFSA (free application for federal student) Aide
As well as a chance to ask questions
PRESENTER: Jeanne Mott, Director of Financial Aid for Baker University.
HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!
400 Eisenhower
P.O. Box 67
Baldwin, KS 66006
Office: 785-594-2448
Fax: 785-594-2449
BALDWIN JUNIOR HIGH NEWS
Greetings from Baldwin Junior High,
Our students have been busy working and will have just finished up their first semester of classes. Our Student Council has been actively working
raising money for the Community Emergency Fund. The sport teams have finished up football, volleyball, and girl’s basketball at this time. We
are now beginning boy’s basketball. We are always happy to have you come out and support our students.
Several of our students competed in the League Math Relays:
Henry Letner, first place in Pre-Algebra, 2nd place in Number Sense
Emily Linder, 7th place in Geometry
Grace Cooper, 1st place in Problem Solving
Seventh Grade Team -First Place in the League!
Jenna Flory. 1st place in Algebra
Katherine Smrha-Monroe, 2nd place in Algebra
Emma McLaren, 3rd place in Algebra
Paige Lesley, 4th place in Algebra.
Jenna Flory, 4th place in Number Sense
Paige Lesley, 7th place in Number Sense
Jake Sultani, 4th place in Probability
Emma McLaren, 9th place in Probability
Libby Brungardt, 8th place in Geometry
Libby Brungardt, 5th place in Problem solving
Katherine Smrha-Monroe, 6th place in Problem Solving
Jake Sultani, 8th place in Problem Solving
Eighth grade team, 4th place in the League.
Music News:
One of our students was chosen out of 800 auditions to compete in the Kansas Music Educators Association’s All State Middle Level Choir.
Congratulations to Samantha Clark (8th grade).
Kansas Communities That Care Survey:
Also included in this section is a letter about the KCTC survey that all 6th and 8th grade students will take. Please read the letter and if you chose
to opt your child out, fill out the form and send it back by January 8.
Up to Date Information:
Please check out our website for more up-to-date information. We have activities weekly. You can find our website at: http://www.usd348.com/
schools/bjhs/
Thank you for your support of the students and staff here at Baldwin Junior High.
November 28, 2012
Dear Parents:
Our school will soon be administering to students an annual statewide needs assessment, called the Kansas
Communities That Care Student Survey. The purpose of the survey is to gather information to combat such
problems as alcohol and other drug use, bullying, gambling and violence in our schools and communities. The
study will be conducted with students in the sixth, eighth, tenth and twelfth grades. (8th grade will take it on
January 8th and 6th grade on January 9th).
I believe this survey is a good tool for teachers and parents to understand the extent of drug and alcohol
awareness by our kids, as well as the extent of substance use. More importantly, I believe it is a worthwhile
undertaking that will help create more effective prevention programming by our school and various
community organizations to address problems associated with alcohol and drug use.
The survey includes questions on alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and family and community factors related to
substance use. You may also be interested to know the following:
1.
It is completely anonymous. Students will not be asked for their names on the questionnaire, nor
will anyone be able to connect any individual student with his/her responses. School staff will not
see any one student’s responses, but only summaries of results. To further guarantee anonymity,
results will not be reported on any particular question without sufficient response from enough
students.
2.
Participation is entirely voluntary. Your child may decline to participate in the survey, or may
simply skip any particular question they do not wish to answer.
3.
Annual participation is important. Even if your child has participated in previous surveys,
annual data is extremely helpful in determining the effectiveness of previous efforts and changes
in program areas.
I hope you will allow your child to participate in this statewide effort. If you agree, you need do nothing
further. However, if for any reason you do not wish your child to participate, please sign and return this letter
by January 8, 2013 and your child will be excused from participation. Thank you in advance for your
cooperation.
Sincerely,
Tammy Thomasson
Principal --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I do NOT want my child(ren) to participate in the survey this year.
Student Name(s)________________________________________________________________
______________________________________
Parent Printed Name
______________________________________
Parent Signature
100 Bullpup Drive
P.O. Box 67
Baldwin City, KS 66006
Office: 785-594-2446
Fax: 785-594-2447
INTERMEDIATE CENTER NEWS
On November 12, our staff and students honored local veterans with a recognition program and lunch. This year we had over 60
veterans representing all branches of service as well as 20 guests in attendance. This important tradition keeps our young students
connected to those who have served in our military. We look forward to this event with great anticipation as the stories of combat,
sacrifice, and service are a key part of educating our students about the cost of freedom and democracy.
On the program for this year’s Veteran’s Day ceremony was a performance of the book, America’s White Table, organized and
directed by district librarian Rita Tutschulte and BESIC library instructor Jill Boyle. Our third graders sang, “American Tears”
under the direction of BESIC music teacher Eric Aspegren. A special thank you to our 5th grade student council and character
council members for helping make this event a success. These young people greeted our veterans, served coffee, and cleared lunch
trays. Thank you to Sherry Haskell and her kitchen staff for another great meal. Thank you to Kim Beilfuss and Cheryl Rice who
volunteered their time to help. Thank you to our classroom teachers for allowing us to take some time away from our regular
schedule to make this happen. Another special thank you to Eric Price and the Lamb-Roberts Funeral Home for their monetary
donation to help with the cost of providing a free lunch to each veteran who attended.
We are fortunate to be a part of a generous community. It seems so often when our school has a need someone from the community
is quickly here to fill the need. The generosity ranges from donating school supplies, clothing, and food, to giving of time and
expertise when needed. Our community has been fortunate to have mega volunteer, Krystal Williams, as a part of our school for the
past four years. Krystal spends two days a week in our school helping with a variety of tasks. She is as much a part of our staff as
those who get paid to be here every day. Please help us express our thanks and appreciation to Krystal if you see her around town.
Her contribution to our school is immeasurable.
Every year our school participates in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. We send a winner from our school to Lawrence to compete
in the Douglas County Spelling Bee. This year, we are also having a Geography Bee. Students interested in this new competition
will have an opportunity to join a geography club to help prepare for this event.
With the transition to common core state standards, our teachers are de-emphasizing the teaching of the current Kansas learning
standards. This spring will be the final time that our students are assessed on these current standards. This de-emphasis will allow
our teachers to spend more time working with students on the new standards. Teachers have been working hard behind the scenes
familiarizing themselves with the new standards and adjusting instructional strategies. One method that we are using to help our
teachers learn is the PLC (professional learning community). Groups of teachers work as teams on various items related to student
achievement. This method of learning from and sharing with each other has proven to increase learning in the classroom.
Our staff is currently working on a new report card that will reflect the new common core standards. This new report card will debut
next fall for 3-5 grade students. A committee of teachers is also working to select new math materials that will support the common
core standards. These new materials will be in each elementary classroom when school starts next fall.
BESIC staff and students are fortunate to have the support of our Baldwin Elementary CSO/PTO (Community Support
Organization) which provides funds for many of our activities and materials. Each year, our CSO gives grants to teachers for
classroom materials, purchases classroom magazines, funds field trips, and provides many other resources that enhance the learning
experiences of our students. The BES-CSO continues to offer patrons an opportunity to provide financial support through a pledge
drive. To learn more about the pledge drive or to make a donation, please visit this link.
http://besic.usd348.com/parent-resources/cso/
500 Lawrence
P.O. Box 67
Baldwin City, KS 66006
Happy New Year!
Office: 785-594-2444
Fax: 785-594-2445
PRIMARY CENTER NEWS
Our CSO hosted the second annual Science Fair, on Thursday, November 15, 2012. Individual students and classes had the opportunity to prepare
and display a science project, with the projects being judged and awards given on the afternoon of Novovember 15, 2012. There was an open
house that evening for public viewing of all of the projects submitted. Science City presented a program that night. The Science Fair next year
will be in January of 2014.
Student Council organized a competition during the month of December. Each of our five pods collected coins to be donated to the Community
Emergency Fund. Amy Wintermantel visited with the students at our December assembly to help them understand the need that some are
experiencing here in Baldwin. The students have been very generous.
The Physical Education classes have just completed a bowling unit. They learned the rules and practiced the skills required for this lifelong sport.
In December the 1st and 2nd graders traveled to Lawrence to bowl in a real bowling alley. They had a great time bowling and also practiced their
manners while eating lunch at CiCi’s Pizza.
The Elementary Art Show opens on January 11 at the Lumberyard Arts Center. The show runs through January 31, 2013. Please stop in and see
the work of the youngest District students. It is fun!
Music and music performances are happening at the PC this year! We have had three music programs so far this year. Our next concert will be
the Kansas Day program on January 29 at 8:30 AM in the BESPC Gym. This is always fun! The students learn about the state of Kansas and then
put that learning into a program. Each year audience members tell us that they have learned something about Kansas that they did not know. The
last two music programs of the year will be at 1st and 2nd grade music program on April 25. The Kindergarten students will present their Music
and PE program on May 8 at 8:30 AM and 12:30 PM in the BESPC Gym.
This year we are really focusing on reading. The District goal is that all students are reading on grade level by the end of 3rd grade. We are
working very hard to make that happen at the PC. We have many different reading groups trying to meet the various student needs. Reading is the
Key! CSO will be hosting a Book Exchange. The book collection will be during the month of January. If you have children's books in good
condition and would like to donate them, we will have collection boxes in the BESPC front vestibule.
The District Math Curriculum has been meeting to update our math curriculum to align with Common Core Standards. New math materials are
being researched and a decision will be made this Spring concerning math materials.
Important Dates:
January 3-31
January 8
January 11
February 1
February 5
February 14
February 18
March 1
March 4
March 5
March 11-15
March 20
CSO Book Exchange Collection
CSO/Site Council- 3:45 PM (IC)
PEP Screening
PEP Screening
CSO/Site Council- 6:30 PM (PC)
Valentine’s Day classroom celebrations
CSO Trash bag sales start
PEP Screening
Read Across America Day
CSO/Site Council- 3:45 PM (IC)
Spring Break
Portraits/Class Picture Day
Baldwin Education Foundation
785-594-0404
www.baldwineducationfoundation.org
Winter 2012-2013
A message from
Save ! Date~
BEF President Patty Irick…
Dear Friends,
I want to thank everyone for their terrific support of the
Baldwin Education Foundation in 2012. Together we are
truly improving the quality of education for each student in
our district.
2012 started off with our sixth Baldwin Education
Foundation Luncheon. Joyce Castle wowed us with her
beautiful performance in the new USD 348 Performing Arts
Center. As she noted, a huge difference from the stage in the
multi-purpose room in the old Primary Center. It was magical
to hear her perform and delightful to hear her speak of the
impact Baldwin schools and our community had on her
journey. The luncheon brought together community members,
school district faculty and staff in what has become a
celebration of education. It truly was a special day.
We were deeply saddened at the passing of Coach Merle
Venable in May. We were humbled that his family chose to
direct the memorials in his memory to the Merle Venable
Scholarship Fund which the Baldwin Education Foundation
administers. A $500 scholarship is awarded to a graduating
BHS Senior. I know he was very proud of this enduring
legacy in his honor.
In August, the BEF “Pawz Patrol” awarded more than
$11,000 to 32 teachers for their Innovative Projects. Students
at every school in our district are benefitting from these
unique, hands-on learning opportunities created by our
excellent teachers. These grants would not be possible without
the support of donors like you.
On behalf of the BEF Board, I thank you for making 2012, a
great year for the Foundation, and extend our best wishes for
a wonderful, prosperous New Year!
Baldwin Education Foundation
LUNCHEON
Noon, Thursday March 7, 2013
BUNKO for BEF
The Baldwin Diner hosted the sixth annual Bunko for
BEF held on Nov. 5. The dice-rolling good time raised
$1700 for the Baldwin Education Foundation.
“The Lodge hosted the event this year - we want to
thank Peach and Ted Madl for their wonderful support.
Many thanks to the people who played and those who
supported with raffle prize donations and table
sponsorships. We are so grateful for the tremendous
community involvement.” Kathy Gerstner, BEF
Executive Director said.
Thank you to our table sponsors: Vintage Park, Dr.
Chris Leiszler, Baldwin State Bank, Mid America Bank,
Dr. Jeremy Rodrock, Brad Scraper of Stephens
Insurance, Manpower International, CenturyLink, Dr.
Tammy Thomasson, The Lodge and the Baldwin City
Recreation Commission.
YES, I WANT TO HELP OUR KIDS!
PLEASE ACCEPT MY TAX DEDUCTIBLE CONTRIBUTION OF ___________________.
THANK YOU!
Remember, your gift
is tax-deductible
Your Name ___________________________________________________________________
Address _________________________________ City ______________ St____ Zip __________
Email _______________________________________________ Phone ___________________
Mail to the BALDWIN
EDUCATION FOUNDATION, PO Box 67, Baldwin City, KS 66006
Questions? Please call Kathy Gerstner at 785-594-0404.
BCRC Activity Schedule
Office Hours
Monday to Thursday
8 am – 5 pm
Friday
8 am – 4 pm
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
After School Program-Baldwin Intermediate Center
Before School Care-Baldwin Intermediate Center
Baldwin City Pokemon League-Saturdays at 1 pm, Baldwin Library
Kids Day Out-January 3, 4, & 14; March 7 and April 8
Elementary Open Gym-Ends February 24
Jr. High Open Gym-Ends February 24
Preschool Science Camps-February 2 to February 16
715 High Street, PO Box 871
Baldwin City, KS 66006
785-594-3670
Fax # 785-594-2135
www.baldwinrec.org
COMMUNITY EVENTS
TOPS(Taking Off Pounds Sensibly)-Tuesdays, 10 am, Baldwin City
Library OR Wednesdays, 5:45 pm, Baldwin Senior Center
Garden Connection of Baldwin-Contact Donna at 594-3908 or
windlake@mchsi.com
Adopt a Bike or Bike Exchange-Contact BCRC Office
Bookworm Club-Contact Bette Stefanik @ 785-594-9896
ADULT ACTIVITIES
Martial Arts-Wednesdays, BESIC, 6:30
Yoga-Sundays, BESIC, 5:00
Group Fitness-Mon-Fri, BESPC South Gym, 8:30 am
Coffee & Cookies-BCRC , 3rd Friday monthly, 9 am
Pinochle-BCRC, Monday & Friday, Noon
Hand & Foot Game- January 9 & 17; February 12 & 28
Cards (Pitch)-BCRC, 3rd Tuesday of each month, 1 pm
Dominoes-BCRC, January 10 & 22; February 6 & 21
Strider’s Club-BCRC Walking Club
Pickleball-Vinland; Thursdays @ 6:30 pm
Rummikub-BCRC, 1st Tuesday of each month
Early Morning Boot Camp-Jr. High Gym, 5:45 a.m.
Zumba-Monday, Wednesday, BESIC, 5:30 pm
American Heartland Theatre – March 20
Lunch BunchBingo-January 7 & February 11
New Theatre Restaurant-May 1
Adult Volleyball Open Gym-Ends February 24
Adult Basketball Open Gym-Ends February 24
Special Populations-Contact Tammy @ 785-594-3670
YOUTH SPORTS
Martial Arts-Wednesdays, BESIC at 6:30 pm
Spring Soccer Registration –Deadline is February 18
T-Ball Registration-Deadline is March 25
Summer Ball Registration-Deadline is February 28
BCRC STAFF
Steve Friend, Director
Tammy Michael, Recreation Specialist
Brice Soeken, Sports Coordinator
Debra McCullough, Admin Asst/Senior Coordinator
Dana Rockers, Operations Supervisor
Scholarships are available for youth and adult activities.
District
News
WINTER EDITION 2012-2013
SCHOOL DISTRICT
NEWSLETTER
Baldwin USD 348
PO Box 67
Baldwin City, KS 66006