theMESSENGER - Indianola Community Schools

MESSENGER
the
NOVEMBER 2015
I n d i ano l a Co m m u nit y S c h o o l s
SUPERINTENDENT’S CORNER
W
elcome to the Fall 2015 edition of the Messenger. School is under way
with a large number of new staff and continued facilities improvements.
Perhaps you have noticed ongoing work at Emerson Elementary, Indianola
High School, and Indianola Stadium. Additionally, work is under way on the
baseball complex and new tennis courts north of the high school. The changes
taking place to improve security and our students’ educational and athletic experiences will be complete this calendar
year. These projects represent the work remaining from the 2013 bond issue.
New school staff members are profiled in this issue. We also feature other important people recently elected to serve
the school district in a governance role, four new school board members. Please take a little time to read their profiles
included in this issue.
Please take the opportunity to connect with school district staff and participate in school activities whenever possible.
Attend events, visit the district website or Facebook page, follow us on Twitter @ICSD_Pride, volunteer for committees
or booster groups. Reach out to me anytime with questions, comments or concerns. My office phone is 515-961-9500,
and my email is art.sathoff@indianola.k12.ia.us. You can stop by the office as well at 1304 E. 2nd Avenue. Thank you for
your support of our efforts to provide Indianola CSD students with the best education possible.
Art Sathoff
Indianola CSD Superintendent
DIGITAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT EARNS AN “A”
Director of Technology Ray Coffey gives IHS’s Digital Learning Environment an “A” for the 2014-15 school year. Only
1.2% of the laptops issued to every high school student at the beginning of last school year were returned with damage.
Those damages were typically screen cracks or liquid spills on keyboards.
“Overall, Indianola parents can be proud of the respectful kids they’ve raised,” said Coffey. “Students were responsible
and respectful of the equipment.”
Some fines were issued as the result of lost or broken chargers, each costing around $79. Coffey ensures those fines
aren’t making revenue for the school, as costs to fix or replace the equipment are far greater than the fines issued.
A significant reason DLE has been so successful at IHS is the willingness and commitment of faculty to integrate it into
the classroom. Teachers dedicated a great deal of time getting familiar with the new system and adapting their teaching
and communication practices. Instructional Coach Ali Sauter was also instrumental in the switch to DLE.
The district is excited to see further implementation of the DLE concept by both faculty and students.
MESSENGER
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NOVEMBER 2015
I n d i ano l a Co m m u nit y S c h o o l s
T
here are plenty of new faces in the halls of Indianola Schools this fall. The district welcomes 39
new teachers! Some already have roots in the community. Some walked the hallways as students
themselves. And some are just now discovering what the district is all about. Familiar or not, these
teachers will bring fresh perspectives and exciting change to the classroom.
We thought you’d like to meet them and get to know their approach to teaching—what they hope to bring to
the students of Indianola Schools.
EMERSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Cortney Hein teaches special education at Emerson. She is a graduate of Southeast Warren High School and Iowa State University.
Courtney previously taught special education in the Des Moines public school system.
Chantel Lischer is a 5th grade teacher at Emerson. She is a graduate of Bedford High School and Iowa State University. Chantel previously taught 6th grade in the Madrid Community School District.
“
It is essential that teachers
have empathy and are
understanding of all
students and their specific
circumstances.
- Cortney Hein
Amanda Meacham teaches kindergarten at Emerson. She is a
graduate of Indianola High School and Central College. She previously taught preschool in the Martensdale-St. Mary’s CSD.
Kaylee Rudolph teaches art at Emerson. She is a graduate of
Grinnell High School and the University of Northern Iowa.
Jenny Schwery teaches 5th grade at Emerson. She is a graduate of
Atlantic High School and Upper Iowa University. Jenny previously
taught 5th grade and special education in the Martensdale-St. Mary’s
Community School District. Jenny is the younger sister of IHS counselor Emily Schwery.
Emily Wassenaar teaches 2nd grade at Emerson. She is a graduate
of Ogden High School and Iowa State University. Emily previously
taught 1st grade in the Mason City CSD.
“
Students know when their teachers care about them; students know
when their teachers know their subject; and students know when their
teachers are inquisitive and passionate about learning themselves. An
outstanding teacher reflects on their teaching, searching for ways to
improve the overall success for their students. - Kaylee Rudolph
“
Being enthusiastic and positive
are important attributes for
teachers to have.
- Chantel Lischer
“
In order to be an outstanding
teacher I have to show that I have
a passion for the students and it is
not just a job for me.
- Emily Wassenaar
LtoR: Cortney Hein, Kaylee Rudolph,
Emily Wassenaar, Amanda Meacham
“
I believe that every child has
the ability to learn. Each student will develop differently
and they will learn in their
own way at their own individual speed. It is my job, as
an educator, to supply each
student with the resources
they need to succeed.
- Amanda Meacham
Proud Traditions... Unlimited Possibilities
IRVING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Dionne Ackelson teaches 5th grade at Irving.
She is a graduate of Indianola High School and the
University of Northern Iowa. Dionne has experience
teaching 3rd and 4th grade in the Des Moines public
school system.
“
An outstanding teacher is always learning and
improving right along with her students.
Kyndsie Conlon teaches kindergarten at Irving.
She is a graduate of Humboldt High School and
Iowa State University. Kyndsie completed her
student teaching at Whittier Elementary School.
“
Being caring and compassionate allows the
student to feel a sense of security in the
classroom and encourages the student to
become at ease.
Jenna Darsee teaches art at Irving. She is a
graduate of Urbandale High School and Luther
College.
“
In order to be an outstanding teacher one
must consider the developmental skills and
abilities of their students in order to create
lessons that are fun, relative to students and
are corresponding to their abilities.
Liz Gradoville teaches 1st grade at Irving. She is a
graduate of Kuemper Catholic High School and Iowa
State University.
Back Row: Jenna Darsee, Tiffany Weaver, Maddie Kampf,
Dionne Ackelson, Chantel Lischer (Emerson)
Front Row: Kyndsie Conlon,Liz Gradoville
Maddie Kampf teaches 3rd grade at Irving. She is
a graduate of Indianola High School and the University of Iowa. Maddie previously served as a 1st grade
teacher in the Chariton CSD.
“
Outstanding teachers….adhere to the belief
that all students are able to learn and obtain
high levels of success. They know that every
hour of every day each child deserves to be
taught in such a way that they are able to
reach high levels of growth.
Tiffany Weaver teaches kindergarten at Irving.
She is a graduate of Forest City High School and
Iowa State University.
“
Teachers have the best job because they
get to work with children. While working
with children it is important to remember
flexibility is key.
“
Outstanding teachers find ways to actively
engage all students.
“
An outstanding teacher needs to be organized, creative, passionate, innovative, and
believe in being a life-long learner. Every teacher should want to engage their students in the
lessons and reflect upon their teaching in order to meet the needs of all students. - Jenny Schwery
MESSENGER
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I n d i ano l a Co m m u nit y S c h o o l s
WHITTIER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Casey Coy teaches physical education at Whittier. He will also serve
as a middle school football and wrestling coach. Casey is a graduate of
South Hamilton High School and Simpson College. He student taught
at Irving Elementary School.
Erin March teaches 5th grade at Whittier. She is a
graduate of Clarion-Goldfield High School and Iowa
State University. Erin previously taught 5th grade in the
Carroll CSD.
Katie Patava teaches 4th grade at Whittier. She is a
graduate of Norwalk High School and the University of
Northern Iowa. Katie previously taught 6th grade in the
Montezuma CSD.
“
A successful teacher
must possess the ability
to form relationships by
getting to know students
and exploring their interests in order to build
mutual levels of respect,
responsibility, and trust.
- Erin March
“Students need to feel safe when they are in
the teacher’s classroom, so teachers must be
approachable.”
- Casey Coy
“The most effective teachers I have met are
those who have an intense passion for learning,
both in themselves, and for their students.”
- Mary Craven
- Katie Patava
Mary Craven teaches music at Whittier. She is a graduate of Dowling Catholic High School and Drake University.
WILDER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Sara Eeling teaches 1st grade at Wilder.
She is a graduate of Pekin High School
and Central College.
“An outstanding teacher has a growth
mindset and is always trying to improve.”
Katie Patava
Josh Mohr teaches 2nd grade at Wilder. He is a graduate of
Ridge View High School in Holstein, IA and Morningside
College.
“The best teachers are those
who connect well with their
students and demonstrate a
positive attitude at all times.”
Michelle Stolz teaches 5th
grade at Wilder. She is a graduate of Harlan High School and
Simpson College.
“To be an outstanding teacher,
you must be passionate, compassionate, and have a strong work
ethic.”
“
LtoR: Josh Mohr, Michelle Stolz, Sara Eeling, Erin March
(Whittier)
For a teacher to be effective [she must] have knowledge about how
children learn and the ability to differentiate instruction to meet individual
student needs. They should use student data in planning small group or large
group instruction, and should alter instruction based on the needs of students to help student become proficient in the areas of their grade level.
NOVEMBER 2015
Casey Coy & Mary Craven
Proud Traditions... Unlimited Possibilities
INDIANOLA MIDDLE SCHOOL
Nic Addelia teaches band at IMS. He is a graduate
of Pleasant Valley High School and the University
of Northern Iowa. He previously taught middle
school instrumental music in the Burlington CSD,
and served as a percussion technician at Waterloo
West High School.
“
An outstanding teacher needs to be a source
of passion and inspiration regarding his or her
subject, and allow for students to form their own
passion regarding said subject.
Row 1: Lacey Cherniss, Jami Daniel, Amber Strable
Meredith Blankenheim, Olivia Aten, Karen Lamb, Nic Addelia
Row 2: Michelle Majzner, Noel Hoover
Row 3: Sara Fischer, Kristi Dusenbery, Kelcey Smith, Sarah Wolf
Olivia Aten teaches special education at IMS.
She is a graduate of Moline (IL) Senior High School and the University of Northern Iowa.
“
Outstanding teachers are limitless in terms of their love for their students, work ethic, and
drive to help children.
Meredith Blankenheim teaches vocal music at IMS. She is a graduate of Miamisburg (OH)
High School and Drake University. Meredith previously served as the 6-12 vocal music director
in the Prairie City-Monroe CSD and PK-12 vocal music teacher in the Moravia CSD.
“
An outstanding teacher must be passionately dedicated to their craft and to their students.
Lacey Cherniss serves as a guidance counselor at IMS. She is a graduate of Carlisle High
School and Simpson College. Lacey holds a Master’s degree in school counseling from Drake
University. She has previously served as a middle school counselor and at-risk coordinator in the
Pleasantville CSD, the outreach coordinator for the Iowa College Aid Commission and an Upward Bound academic advisor.
“
Outstanding teachers strive each and every day to help their students succeed. Their work is
never done.
Jami Daniel teaches special education at IMS. She is a graduate of Johnston High School and
Drake University. Jami previously taught special education in the Waukee CSD.
“
I believe that all students have the right to a high quality education that is meaningful and
relevant to them. Education should be an individualized process to meet the needs of the individual. Each student has strengths and weakness and I believe that teachers play a valuable role
in helping a student cultivate those strengths and work to improve areas of weakness.
MESSENGER
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NOVEMBER 2015
I n d i ano l a Co m m u nit y S c h o o l s
Kristi Dusenbery teaches language arts at IMS. She is a graduate of Urbandale High School and the
University of Northern Iowa. Kristi previously taught 4th and 5th grade in the Des Moines public school
system.
“
Outstanding teachers are personally interested in the success of every student and believe that each
child has the ability to learn and grow. They understand the unique developmental needs of each student
and work with students and families to communicate clear expectations for learning and behavior.
Sara Fischer teaches 6th grade language arts at IMS. She is a graduate of Rockford (IL) High School
and the University of Northern Iowa. Sara previously taught 6th grade in the Nixa (MO) public schools
and 7th and 8th grade in the Gladbrook-Reinbeck CSD.
“
Communication skills and flexibility are two traits of effective educators.
Noel Hoover teaches special education at IMS. She is a graduate of East Marshall High School and William Penn University. Noel previously taught special education in the Oskaloosa CSD.
“
Disability is not inability. No matter what the disability each child is able to have success with the
right accommodations, modifications, and specialized instruction in place. Each teacher should remember that each child, regardless of the disability should have a fair, safe, and loving learning environment
for academic, social, and overall success.
Karen Lamb teaches special education at IMS. She is a graduate of Stillwater (MN) High School and the
University of Wisconsin. Karen previously taught in the Tacoma (WA) public and Department of Defense
schools. Karen also served as a special education associate at IMS.
Michelle Majzner teaches 8th grade language arts at IMS. She is a graduate of Wayzat (Plymouth, MN)
High School and Simpson College.
“
[A] teacher must have the ability to understand and engage [a] variety of learners. I need to create
lessons that focus on reading abilities, but also have activities involved that helps students understand
comprehension.
Kelcey Smith serves as the IMS reading interventionist. She is a graduate of Colo-NESCO High School
and Iowa State University. She previously taught in the Clarke CSD.
“
An outstanding teacher must know the skills and abilities of every learner.
Amber Strable teaches science at IMS. She is a graduate of Martensdale-St. Mary’s High School and
Simpson College. Amber previously served as a science teacher in the Bondurant-Farrar CSD.
“
Building relationships and communication are two necessary attributes in becoming an exceptional
teacher.
Cadi Williams serves as the school nurse at IMS and IHS. She is a graduate of Indianola High
School and Grandview University. Cadi previously served as an RN population health coach at
the Indianola Family Practice Clinic. Cadi is the daughter of retired IHS counselor John Taylor.
Proud Traditions... Unlimited Possibilities
Rachel Van Zante is a language arts teacher at IHS.
She is a graduate of Pella High School and Iowa State
University.
Great teachers are committed to going the extra
“
mile with and for their students.”
LtoR: Kyle Berg, Mindy Percy & Jordan Kenkel
INDIANOLA HIGH SCHOOL
Wendy Arch teaches language arts at IHS. She is a
graduate of Carlisle High School and Drake University. Wendy has a Master’s degree in English literature
from Iowa State University. She previously served as a
language arts teacher in the Carlisle, Mason City and
Johnston CSDs.
When students see teachers being innovative with
“
classroom instruction, students are encouraged to
think critically and inventively about their own world
and learning.”
Kyle Berg is a special education and social studies
teacher at IHS. He is a graduate of Indianola High
School and the University of Iowa. Kyle has a Master’s degree in education from Simpson College. He
previously served as a special education teacher in the
Interstate 35 CSD.
One must accept that teaching is an art and a sci“
ence, which can never be perfected but always improved.”
Zack Kaczmarek is a social studies teacher at IHS.
He also coaches football and boys’ basketball. Zack is
a graduate of Davenport Assumption High School and
the University of Iowa. He previously taught social
studies at Davenport Assumption High School.
An outstanding teacher cares about their job. They
“
enjoy teaching, and enjoy being around the students.”
Jordan Kenkel is a language arts teacher at IHS.
He is a graduate of IKM-Manning High School and
Simpson College. Jordan previously worked as a staff
reporter for the Manilla Times newspaper.
“
I have to provide instruction that helps students
think more critically of the content being taught.”
Mindy Percy is a math teacher at IHS. She is a graduate of Humboldt High School and Creighton University. Mindy previously taught math in the Colo-NESCO and Southeast Polk CSDs.
“
An outstanding teacher demonstrates a mastery
of the subject material being taught and the ability to
communicate that knowledge to students. The ability
to build a strong rapport with students while maintaining a safe and disciplined classroom environment
is also necessary.”
Jonathan Bethards teaches language arts at IHS.
He is a graduate of Ankeny High School and the University of Northern Iowa. He previously served as an
English teacher in China and an Upward Bound tutor.
An outstanding teacher is able to build a positive,
“
professional rapport with the students to create an
environment where students feel comfortable with
themselves, their peers, and their teacher.”
Jill Brangers is a special education teacher at IHS. She
is a graduate of Dowling Catholic High School and Simpson College. Jill previously served as a program associate at IHS and a long-term substitute teacher at IMS.
LtoR: Jonathan Bethards, Quinn Whitaker, Wendy Arch,
Rachel Van Zante
MESSENGER
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NOVEMBER 2015
I n d i ano l a Co m m u nit y S c h o o l s
Michael Tiano is the Project Lead the Way teacher at IHS. He is also an assistant
boys’ soccer coach. Michael is a graduate of Ankeny High School and Simpson College. sHe also has a Master’s degree in education from Kaplan University. Michael
previously served as a math teacher in the Martensdale-St. Mary’s CSD.
Quinn Whitaker is a language arts teacher at IHS. He is a graduate of Macon
(MO) High School and Northwest Missouri State University.
“I want to assist youths in developing intellectually and socially…”
Mike Tiano
DISTRICT OFFICE
Ron Swartz is the district’s new transportation director. He is a
graduate of Maquoketa Valley High School and Upper Iowa University.
Ron previously served as the director of building and grounds and
transportation director in the West Delaware CSD.
Johna Clancy is the district’s new school business official. She is a
graduate of Northeast Hamilton High School and Iowa State University.
Johna previously served as the business manager in the Gilbert CSD.
ACT ACCOLADES
FRIDAYNIGHTLIGHTS!
Indianola’s freshmen and varsity football
teams opened their seasons in the brand new
Indianola Stadium, Friday, August 28, against
Ankeny. The crowd enjoyed performances by
the IHS Marching Band, Impulse Dance Team
and IHS cheerleaders. Also making its debut—
the state’s largest jumbotron!
For the past five years Indianola students have continued to score above the state
average in all areas of the
ACT test.
Congratulations to our
students and the faculty
members who work so hard
to prepare them.
Proud Traditions... Unlimited Possibilities
NEW FACES, NEW LEADERSHIP FOR INDIANOLA SCHOOL BOARD
NEW MEMBERS INCLUDE:
Dacni Gabel, 42, onsite supervisor and teacher at Calvary’s Kids Preschool; graduated from
Adel-DeSoto-Minburn High School; Bachelor’s degree in psychology and Master’s degree in mental
health counseling from the University of Northern Iowa.
Chris Scott, 44, law enforcement / lieutenant with Des Moines Police Department; executive officer
to the chief of police; Master’s degree in public administration from Drake University and a Bachelor’s
degree in elementary education from the University of Northern Iowa.
Kariann Voigts, 45, teaches math and clarinet at Simpson College; math teaching endorsement
from Simpson College (2011); Master’s degree in music from Indiana University (1998) and a Bachelor’s degree in music – music education/music performance – from the University of Northern Iowa
(1993). Graduated from Waverly-Shell Rock High School in 1988.
Jay Wilkinson, 47, director of international education at Simpson College; has a Bachelor’s degree
in political science and humanities from Pepperdine University and a Master’s degree in geography
from Penn State University
NEW BOARD EXECUTIVES WERE ALSO NAMED IN SEPTEMBER:
Mark Tucker, President • Darrin Johnson, Vice President • Johna Clancy, Secretary/Treasurer
A big thank-you to former board members for your commitment and service to our district:
Chris Goodale, Darren Heater, Kurt Lickiss, Scott Gray
Moeller will be Missed
Darcy Moeller, former Indianola School District Business Manager, announced her decision to retire
this summer after nearly 20 years in the role. During Moeller’s tenure, Indianola schools and facilities have undergone considerable change. Recent projects include interior and exterior remodeling
projects at all four elementary schools, as well as the Indianola Middle School and High School. Other
projects during her tenure include the construction of Wilder Elementary, Blake Fieldhouse and Indianola Stadium.
“I am extremely grateful to have worked with Darcy since coming to the district,” said Indianola
School District Superintendent Art Sathoff. “Her expertise, institutional knowledge and concern for
the Indianola community and its students are immeasurable.”
MESSENGER
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NOVEMBER 2015
I n d i ano l a Co m m u nit y S c h o o l s
CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS
2015-2016 TRADITIONAL CALENDAR
2015-16 YRE CALENDAR
OCTOBER 26
End of 1st Quarter
NOVEMBER 6
No School
NOVEMBER 2 &5
P/T Conferences
NOVEMBER 25
1 Hr Early Dismissal
NOVEMBER 5
No Preschool Classes
NOVEMBER 26 - 27
Thanksgiving Break / No School
NOVEMBER 6
No School
DECEMBER 18
End of 2nd Quarter / End of 1st Semester
NOVEMBER 25
1 Hr Early Dismissal
DECEMBER 21 – JAN 1
Winter Break / No School
NOVEMBER 26-27
Thanksgiving Break / No School
JANUARY 4-8
Winter Intersession
DECEMBER 21 - JANUARY 1
Winter Break / No School
JANUARY 18
Professional Development / No School
JANUARY 15
End of 2nd Quarter / End of 1st Semester
FEBRUARY 15 & 18
P/T Conferences
JANUARY 18
Professional Development / No School
FEBRUARY 19
No School
FEBRUARY 16 & 18
P/T Conferences
MARCH 11
End of 3rd Quarter
FEBRUARY 18
No Preschool Classes
MARCH 14-18
Spring Break / No School
FEBRUARY 19
No School
MARCH 21-25
Spring Intersession
MARCH 14-18
Spring Break / No School
MAY 27
Last Day of School - 1 Hr Early Dismissal
MARCH 25
End of 3rd Quarter
APRIL 9
High School Prom
MAY 20
Last Day for Seniors
MAY 22
Graduation (1:00pm)
MAY 27
Last Day of School - 1 Hr Early Dismissal
*Weekly Early Dismissal: There will be a weekly, one hour early dismissal on Wednesdays for professional development.
Proud Traditions... Unlimited Possibilities
DANNY THEDE
Transportation Director Danny Thede wrapped up seventeen years of service to Indianola Schools October 2. During Thede’s service, the district saw tremendous improvement in its bus fleet, and today, has
an exceptional driving team and office staff.
“Danny always stressed student safety and did an outstanding job of leading our transportation department,” said Superintendent Art Sathoff.
HOMECOMING 2015
MESSENGER
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Battles, Catron Earn Spots at Global Youth Institute
N
ick battles and Katie Catron were among only 75 students from Iowa to
be selected to attend the three-day Global Youth Institute hosted by the
World Food Prize Foundation. The two—with their teacher mentors, Mrs.
Bauers and Mrs. Brown—traveled to Des Moines, Iowa, in mid-October
to attend the event. While there, they had the opportunity to interact with Nobel
and World Food Prize Laureates and discuss pressing food security and agricultural
issues with international experts. Indianola High School is the only high school with
two students accepted into the program.
Van Treeck, Biddle Compete in National Merit
Scholarship Program
S
eniors Natalie Biddle and Joe Van Treeck earned honors in the 61st Annual
National Merit Scholarship Program. Biddle was named a semifinalist and will
move on in the competition. Van Treeck will not move on, but was named a
Commended Student. Both were selected from an initial pool of more than 1.5
million juniors and seniors from 22,000 high schools across the country. We congratulate both of these students on their hard work and notable achievement in this prestigious competition!
WE’RE ON THE WEB: WWW.INDIANOLA.K12.IA.US
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INDIANOLA, IOWA 50125
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INDIANOLA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
1304 EAST SECOND AVENUE
INDIANOLA, IA 50125
NOVEMBER 2015
I n d i ano l a Co m m u nit y S c h o o l s