Community - Tomorrow River

Transcription

Community
“Central Wisconsin’s Good News Newspaper”
O.C. Spirit • 487 N. Main St.
Amherst, WI 54406
PRESORTED
STANDARD
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
PERMIT NO. 2
AMHERST, WI 54406
“The Good News Newspaper from the Jensen Community Center,
Tomorrow River Schools, and the Amherst Area”
Volume 11 • Number 3
March 2013 The Community Spirit • 1
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Newsstand 75¢
New charter school now
accepting applications
The Tomorrow River Community children by taking inspiration from
Charter School (TRCCS) is now accepting nature, environmental education and
applications for the 2013/2014 school year. sustainability. They believe that bringing
The TRCCS’s mission is to develop the together a multitude of organizations,
whole child through nature, art, movement, including CWES, the Wisconsin Center
language and music in an innovative, for Environmental Education, the Midwest
collaborative, and supportive educational Renewable Energy Association andUWenvironment based on inspiration from Stevens Point’s College of Natural
Resources as well as UW-Stevens Point
Waldorf and other proven pedagogy.
The school will be located at the Central students from, environmental education,
Wisconsin Environmental Station (CWES), education, dietetics and the arts, will give
an Amherst Junction field station of the the charter school strength and continued
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point community support.
The charter contract with the School
that includes 200 acres of woods on Sunset
Lake as well as learning tools such as an District of the Tomorrow River has been
organic garden and a flock of chickens. through the initial approval process,
While many specifics regarding facilities and everyone is looking forward to that
and programming are under development, document being signed and adopted by both
including the agreement between CWES, parties in the near future. Consequently,
TRCCS, the School District of the TRCCS is taking applications for students
Tomorrow River and UW-Stevens Point, in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade.
school organizers are confident that TRCCS The applications received will determine
class sizes and number. If the number of
is on track to open this fall.
The missions of CWES and TRCCS
(Please see CHARTER, PAGE 17)
have the similar goal of educating
Doug Spadoni (left), Ryan Makuski (middle), and Mark Lusic (right) Makuskie honored at Lambeau Field ceremony
Ryan Makuski receives
All-State honors at
banquet in Green Bay
Miles and Xavian Nusz recently visited the new home for the TRCCS at the
Central Wisconsin Environmental Station (CWES), at Amherst Junction.
Amherst High’s Ryan Makuski was recently honored by the Wisconsin Football
Coaches Association (WFCA) as one of
the top football players in the state. Each
year, the WFCA selects the best 73 players
from over 400 high schools in Wisconsin.
Makuski, a defensive back for the Amherst
Falcons, lead all state players with 14 interceptions, and also had 37 tackles this
past season, helping the Falcons capture
their first-ever state championship. Besides
being named 1st Team All-State by the
Wisconsin Football Coaches Association,
Makuski was also named All-Region by the
Wisconsin Football Coaches Association,
1st Team All-State by the Associated Press,
1st-Team All-Conference (CWC-8) as a defensive back, and Honorable Mention AllConference as a wide receiver. He was also
selected as a News Channel 7 All-Star and
was a finalist for the Jim Leonard award.
Makuski and the other All-State selections
were recently honored at a banquet held in
Green Bay at the Lambeau Field Atrium.
Amherst boys win regional title
Members of the Amherst boys’
basketball team celebrate after beating
Pacelli, 58-52, Saturday, Feb. 23, in
a Division 4 Regional Championship
game. With the victory, the Falcons
improved their season record to 20-3.
Earlier in the month, Amherst captured
the CWC-8 Conference title with a
13-1 mark. As this issue of the “Spirit”
was going to press, the Falcons were
preparing to meet Oconto in a Sectional
semi-final match. Congratulations to
Coach Gregg Jensen and his Falcon
players!
—Photos by RC!2 Photography
30 • The Community Spirit
March 2013
The Community Spirit • 31
News from the Tomorrow River School District
March 2013
Building Project Update
In Review: With the passing of the building referendum, the district will now move
into the building phase. In preparation, the Board held a special meeting on Monday,
November 26, 2012 to create a Building Project Steering Committee. The focus of this
committee will be to oversee taking the plans from concept to reality. The Board decided
to create an eleven member team who will serve as representatives on the steering
committee. To date the following people have agreed to serve on the steering committee:
John Cowden, Deena Gordon, George Konkol, Rich Stuczynski, Cathy Kirsling, Kelly
Loken, Mike Turner, Bob Stuczynski, Robert Smith, Kathy Garske, LeAnn Chase, Mike
Toelle.
Since the proposed timeline (see below) is for ground to be broken this spring,
this committee has been meeting twice a month since its inception. As a result of
this committee’s detailed examination of the original conceptual drawings, some
modifications have been suggested and approved by the Board of Education. For
example, the original plans called for vacating two existing classrooms in the middle
school area due to the construction of the cafeteria. After obtaining more accurate
information for the entire project, it was determined that we will be able to salvage
these areas for use as storage and/or future classrooms at a reduced rate compared
to new construction costs. This can be accomplished without impacting the overall
expenditure of $8.5 million. Additionally, as the School Street renovation was discussed
the consensus of the committee was that a recommendation be forwarded to the Board of
Education to include the construction of curbing and sidewalks along the area impacted
by the construction. The reasoning was that it is more cost effective to add sidewalks and
curbing to this project while the roads are under construction rather than making these
changes sometime in the future. Both recommendations were forwarded and approved by
the Board of Education.
Tomorrow River School District Project Schedule/Timeline
Design: Investigation Phase:November 2012 – December 2012 completed
Schematic Design Review: December 2012 – January 1, 2013 completed
Design Development Phase:
Decemver 2012 – January 2013 completed
Construction Document Phase: January 2013 – March 2013
Project Bidding Phase:
April 2013 – May 1, 2013
Demolition:
Demolition & Set-Up Phase: July 2013
Construction:
Construction Phase: April 2013 – August 2014
Projection for Completion: August 2014
For an update of the schematic drawings, please visit the district web site. For a
conversation regarding the progress of the project, please feel free to contact any
committee member or Board member.
LeAnn Chase, Superintendent
Nurse warns about harmful
effects of energy drinks
By Heather Schultz, School Nurse
An energy drink is a type of beverage containing stimulants, mainly
caffeine, that claims to give you
extra energy, improve alertness, and
improve physical and mental performance. There are many brands and
varieties of these drinks including
Monster, RockStar, and Redbull.
Energy drinks contain high, varying
amounts of caffeine, sugar and other
additives like amino acids and herbs.
Energy drinks are making headlines in the news again with a recent
report called “Energy Drinks: What
Teenagers (and Their Doctors)
Should Know” published in Pediatrics in Review by the American
Academy of Pediatrics. The authors
looked at 23 previous studies on energy drinks and energy drink use by
youths. Their findings highlight the
harmful effects of energy drinks for
adolescents including heart and di-
gestive problems to insomnia, anxiety, dehydration and other problems.
These drinks are even more dangerous when mixed with alcohol.
Some of the harmful effects of
energy drinks are caused by the caffeine that they contain. Consumer
Reports magazine reviewed 27
popular energy drinks and found the
amount of caffeine varied from 6mg
to 242 mg. Eleven of the products
tested didn’t even list the amount
of caffeine on the label. Among
the 16 that did, five had more than
20 percent more caffeine than their
label stated. This makes it difficult
to monitor the amount of caffeine
an individual is taking in. The
recommendation by the American
Academy of Pediatrics is that adolescents do not get more than 100
mg of caffeine a day. That is about
the amount contained in a cup of
coffee. Many energy drinks also
contain additives such as ginseng,
taurine, and carnitine which are not
regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration, so their effects are
not completely understood.
Considering the potential side
effects of energy drinks, there are
much better ways to boost energy
and to feel energized. Start with
getting plenty of sleep at night. Individual needs may vary but most
teens need 8 to 9 ½ hours of sleep
each night. Eat well and drink plenty
of water to stay hydrated. Get
plenty of exercise as regular physical activity will also improve your
energy level. If you are dependent
on caffeine, cut down slowly on the
amount that you drink to help avoid
caffeine withdrawal symptoms that
include headaches, body aches and
depressive symptoms.
Encourage your children to avoid
energy drinks and to make healthier
choices!
DECLARATION OF SCHOOL
BOARD CANDIDACY
I hereby certify that the following three individuals have declared their
candidacy for a position of school board member in the School District of the
Tomorrow River, as per Wisconsin State Statutes Section 120.06(7). Voting on
April 2, 2013 will be for two positions. I also certify that the drawing for ballot
order was supervised by me, LeAnn Chase, Clerk of Elections, and Marilyn
Orsund, District Administrative Assistant. The candidates are listed in ballot
order as they shall appear on the official ballot.
Mark J. Kryshak, 231 Mill Street, Amherst, WI 54406 – Village of Amherst
John Cowden, 9466 Valley View Road, Amherst, WI 54406 – Town of Lanark
Diana L. Bohman, 198 High Street, Amherst, WI 54406 – Village of Amherst
Signed/Dated the 3rd Day of January, 2013
LeAnn Chase, School District Clerk of Elections
Marilyn Orsund, District Administrative Assistant
Attention Residents of
the TR School District
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 4, 2013 to participate in an opportunity to
raise money for athletics AND benefit you too!!
Are you tired of those old TV’s collecting dust; sick of looking at old computer
monitors, keyboards, CPUs, phones, etc? Here is your chance to get rid those
electronics and help the Athletic Department at the same time.
The electronics fundraiser will be on Saturday, May 4 in the school parking lot
beginning at 8:00am. Bring in old electronics to be recycled at a nominal fee.
More information will be available as the date approaches.
Job Posting for
TRCCS Lead Teacher
This key position will provide pedagogical leadership for the
school community and lead the faculty in delivering a Waldorf-inspired curriculum for grades 4K-6. This person holds the vision of
the school, ensuring the quality of the teaching and creating a spirit of
collaboration and mutual support among the teaching staff. The Lead
Teacher also supports the school’s healthy growth and development
through cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with the
School District, the Governance Board, the parents, other partners,
and the broader community.
The application deadline is March 11th, 2013. Candidates must
have the appropriate WI DPI licensure for teaching and we hope they
will also have experience and training in Waldorf education. Educational leadership credentials or a Master’s degree would be a plus.
The position will be 1 FTE for the 2013/14 school year, for time prior
to the start of the 2013/14 school year there will be an hourly rate
of $20 for services as needed up to 120 hours. This will include assistance in hiring teachers, professional development and additional
task in planning for the school opening in September. The salary will
coincide with District guidelines and depend on experience.
If you, or anyone you know, are qualified for this position we
encourage you to apply. We are dedicated to finding a candidate that
can embody the mission, goals and philosophy of the TRCCS and
help envision and create the school culture. Feel free to call or email
with any questions.
February 2013
Student of the Month
The music deptartment
has nominated Senior,
Jonathan Konkol as
Amherst Student of the
Month.
“Jonathan is exceptionally
talented and encourages
and motivates others
to realize their
potential.” “He balances
so many aspects of his
life including school,
work, sports, and various
music groups, always with
calm collectiveness, and a
sense of humor. Jonathan
has been a pleasure
to have in the music
department for the past 7
years, and will be missed!
~ Jonathan Konkol~
March 2013
Tomorrow River School Board Meeting Minutes
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2013
SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Call to Order: The special meeting of the Electors of the
School District of the Tomorrow River was called to order at
7:00 p.m. by President Sandrs Keener. In attendance: Board
Members present included Sandra Keener, Mike Turner,
Diana Bohman, Bob Stuczynski and Kelly Loken. Also
present: LeAnn Chase, Mike Toelle, Kurt Bohman, Don
Lutz, Dale Lutz and Ruth Lutz.
2. Pledge of Allegiance: President Sandra Keener led the
Pledge of Allegiance.
3. Reading of Public Notice of Special Meeting: Read by Diana
Bohman, School Board Clerk.
4. Call for Nominations for Meeting Chairperson: Sandra
Keener nominated.
5. Voice Vote on Nomination of Chairperson: Mike Turner
moved, Kelly Loken seconded to accept nomination of
Sandra Keener as meeting chairperson. The motion carried
on a voice vote.
6. Purpose and Consideration of Resolution Authorizing Site
Acquisition and Designating Said Sites for Potential School
District Buildings (Section 120.10(5m) and 120.10(5) of
Wisconsin Statutes)
7. Official Ballot Vote of the Electors of the School District of
the Tomorrow River for the following:
Shall the following resolution be approved?
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SITE ACQUISITION
AND DESIGNATING SAID SITES FOR POTENTIAL
SCHOOL DISTRICT BUILDINGS
BE IT RESOLVED by the electors of the School District
of the Tomorrow River, Portage County, Wisconsin,
that the School Board be authorized to acquire the sites
located as described in the attached Exhibit A (which is
incorporated herein by this reference) to be designated for
potential School District buildings pursuant to Sections
120.10(5m) and (5) of the Wisconsin Statutes.
8. Tally Official Voting Results of the Electors: 8 Yes / 0 No.
Diana Bohman read resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED by the electors of the School District
of the Tomorrow River, Portage County, Wisconsin, that
the School Board SHALL BE authorized to acquire the
sites located as described in the attached Exhibit A (which
is incorporated herein by this reference) to be designated
for potential School District buildings pursuant to Sections
120.15(5m) and (5) of the Wisconsin Statutes.
9. Adjourn: Bob Stuczynski moved, Kelly Loken seconded to
adjourn meeting at 7:20 p.m. The motion carried on a voice
vote.
Respectfully submitted,
LeAnn Chase, District Administrator
Diana Bohman, School Board Clerk
4.7
1.
5.
JANUARY 14, 2013 SCHOOL BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
1.
2.
3.
4.
Call to Order: The regular meeting of the Tomorrow
River School Board was called to order at 7:01 p.m. in
the District Board Room by President Sandi Keener. In
attendance: Board members present included Kelly Loken,
Diana Bohman, Sandi Keener, Mike Turner, and Bob
Stuczynski. Also present: LeAnn Chase, Mike Toelle, Mark
Luetschwager, Phil Tubbs, Becky Galvin, Jennifer West,
Chamomile Nusz, Marisa Loken, Michael Clark and Kathy
Nicholson.
Pledge of Allegiance: President Sandi Keener led the Pledge
of Allegiance.
Public Participation According to Policy #0167.3: No
participation requested.
Informational Items
4.1 Future Regular Board Meeting Dates: Regular
meeting dates confirmed for Mondays, January 28,
February 11 & 25, 2013.
4.2 Referendum Bonding Presentation: Michael Clark,
Robert W. Baird & Co., presented referendum
financing plan considerations for the approved
$8,500,000 construction bonding. Discussed goals,
methods of bond sales, draw schedules, investment
earnings and different payment scenarios.
4.3 PTO Report: Jennifer West reported on upcoming
events including sledding party scheduled for January
17, Lego League being started, potluck dinner for
parent/teacher conferences and spaghetti dinner
scheduled for Thursday, February 21, 2013. With the
upcoming transition of grade five to Middle School,
the PTO is looking at extending their services thru
grade six in the future.
4.4 Student Council Report: Marisa Loken reported trivia
week, headed by Joan Slovachek, was a great success.
Upcoming events include an “Orange Out” on
Monday, February 18, 2013 with proceeds going to the
Leukemia Foundation, and the Winter Carnival which
will be held in the cafeteria this year due to a conflict
with the gym.
4.5 Current Enrollment: Reviewed enrollment for
December 2012 (1,031 students). Copy attached.
4.6 Falcon Facts Athletic News Bulletin: Reviewed
district athletic news presented by Pam Huston,
Athletic Director. Copy attached.
6.
Building Referendum Report: Mike Turner reported
the project committee is researching the cost of
maintaining the two Middle School classrooms
currently scheduled for demolition due to the addition
of the cafeteria. By saving these classrooms we can
add seven full classrooms to the building instead of
five. Playground equipment was also discussed.
4.8 Charter School Report: Chamomile Nusz reported
there are currently 63 students signed up for the 201314 school year. Governance Board needs additional
members. Charter School has become a member
of Wisconsin Green Schools Network and WISN.
Interviews for the Curriculum Developer position have
been completed and the job should be offered soon.
Continue meeting with CWES to develop a facility use
contract, they have committed four classrooms for the
first year. Reviewed proposed charter school contract.
New website has been developed and will be going
live soon, visit us at “tomorrowrivercommunityschool.
org”.
4.9 Verification of Declaration of School Board Member
Candidacy for the April Election: Mark Kryshak,
John Cowden and Diana Bohman have declared their
candidacy for a school board member position. Voting
on April 2, 2013 will be for two positions. Copy
attached.
4.10 WASB State Education Convention: WASB
convention being held Wednesday through Friday,
January 23, 24 & 25, 2013 in Milwaukee. Diana
Bohman, LeAnn Chase, Kelly Loken and Bob
Stuczynski are registered to attend.
4.11 WASB Legal and Human Resources Conference:
Conference being held February 15 and March 7, 2013
at the Holiday Inn in Stevens Point. Board Members
should contact Marilyn to register. Copy attached.
4.12 WASB 2013 Resolutions: Diana Bohman reviewed
the 2013 proposed WASB resolutions to be debated at
the upcoming state convention. Copy attached.
Recommend Approval of Consent Agenda: Mike Turner
moved, Diana Bohman seconded to move item 5.3.2.2 (MS/
HS Tech Ed Teacher Resignation) to closed session. The
motion carried on a voice vote. Diana Bohman moved, Mike
Turner seconded to approve remaining consent agenda items
listed below as presented. The motion carried on a voice
vote.
5.1 Approval of Minutes
5.1.1 Regular Board Meeting of December 10, 2012
5.1.2 Buildings & Safety Committee Meeting of
November 8, 2012
5.1.3 Building Project Committee Meetings of
December 4 & 18, 2012
5.1.4 Finance Committee Meeting of November 19,
2012
5.2 Financial Reports: Copies attached.
5.2.1 Approval of December 2012 Bills
5.2.2 Review December 2012 Receipts
5.2.3 December 2012 Treasurer’s Report
5.2.4 Year to Date Budget Report
5.3 Personnel: Copies attached.
5.3.1 Leave Requests: Emily Blanke leave of
absence through Sunday, February 3, 2013.
Donna Brenner LWOP Wednesday, February
13, 2013. Sara Pate FMLA to begin on or
about April 5, 2013.
5.3.2Resignation
5.3.2.1 Mark McKenzie – Maintenance
Department
5.3.2.2 Harry Page – MS/HS Tech Ed
Teacher (Moved to closed.)
5.3.3 Co-Curricular Contract: Sarah Scheunemann
(Second Year Mentor)
Discussion/Action Items
6.1 Discuss and Possibly Approve/Deny Early Retirement
Notice for 2012-2013: Proposing one time $500
stipend for any teacher notifying the district in writing
by February 15, 2013 of intent to retire. This allows
the district to begin planning for upcoming vacancies.
Mike Turner moved, Kelly Loken seconded to approve
the proposed early retirement notice supplement for
the 2012-2013 school year as presented. The motion
carried on a voice vote. Copy attached.
6.2 Review and Possibly Accept Donation from Mick
Hermsen ($250) and a Proposed Donation from the
Amherst Youth Football Program ($4550) to Cover the
Purchase Cost of a New Football Blocking Sled: Mike
Turner moved, Bob Stuczynski seconded to accept
both donations with Mrs. Chase to assign person/s
to write a letter of acceptance and appreciation. The
motion carried on a voice vote. Copy attached.
6.3 Review and Possibly Accept Monetary Donation
from David & Lisa Waldoch: Mike Turner moved,
Bob Stuczynski seconded to accept $2,500 donation
($500 to AHS Band Department, $1,000 to AHS Choir
Department, $1,000 to Elementary Music Department)
with Mrs. Chase to assign person/s to write a letter of
acceptance and appreciation. The motion carried on a
voice vote. Copy attached.
6.4 Review and Possibly Accept Monetary Donation from
Baysek Machines Incorporated: Mike Turner moved,
Bob Stuczynski seconded to accept $5,000 donation
to be split between the FBLA activity account and
the Spanish Club activity account with Mrs. Chase
to assign person/s to write a letter of acceptance and
appreciation. The motion carried on a voice vote.
Copy attached.
6.5 Review and Discuss WECAN (Wisconsin Education
Career Access Network): WECAN is an internet
hiring environment where we can post job openings.
Kelly Loken moved, Diana Bohman seconded to
approve joining WECAN at an annual cost of $656.25.
The motion carried on a voice vote. Copy attached.
6.6 Review and Possibly Adopt HEART/WRERA
403(b) Plan Amendment: Due to IRS amendments,
district 403(b) plan documents will need to include
amendments related to HEART (Heroes Earnings
Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2008) and WRERA
(Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recover Act of 2008).
the proposed 403(b) plan amendment for HEART and
WRERA as proposed. The motion carried on a voice
vote. Copy attached.
6.7 Discuss and Possibly Approve Additional 4-Hour
Position in the Food Service Department: Reviewed
costing estimate for proposed position. Mike Turner
moved, Kelly Loken seconded to approve the addition
of a four hour lunchtime position in the Food Service
Department. The motion carried on a voice vote.
Copy attached.
6.8 Review and Possibly Approve Contract Amendment
for Professional Services of Bray Associates
Architects, Inc. for the Proposed Building and Site
Improvements Project: Bob Stuczynski moved, Diana
Bohman seconded to table item for next meeting
pending a meeting with POB and Bray to discuss
further. The motion carried on a voice vote. Copy
attached.
6.9 Review and Possibly Approve Civil Engineering
Proposal for Storm Water, Permit Preparation and
Construction Services for the Proposed Building and
Site Improvements Project from Point of Beginning,
Inc.: Bob Stuczynski moved, Diana Bohman seconded
to table item for next meeting pending a meeting with
POB and Bray to discuss further. The motion carried
on a voice vote. Copy attached.
6.10 Review and Discuss Letter of Request from the
Amherst Area Foundation Regarding Reduction of
Contracted Amount/Payment for Use of District
Grounds for the Youth Soccer Program: Payment
of $600 was received December 20, 2012 for youth
soccer 2012 facility use. Mike Turner moved, Diana
Bohman seconded to continue contracting and paying
per use with the Jensen Center as is currently the
process. The motion carried on a voice vote. Copy
attached.
6.11 Discuss Results of the Meeting of Electors on January
9, 2013 and Property Acquisition: Elector meeting
on January 9, 2013 resulted in approval to purchase
adjoining properties. Meetings with homeowners have
gone very well. District attorney will be contacted
with all information acquired.
6.12 Review and First Reading of Neola New Policies and
Revisions: NEOLA new policies and revised policies
were reviewed and no changes requested. See list
below. Copies attached.
#0160
Bylaws: Meetings/Closed Session
(Revision)
#3122
Professional Staff:
Nondiscrimination and Equal
Employment Opportunity
(Revision)
#3140
Professional Staff: Termination,
Non-Renewal and Resignation
(Revision)
#3220
Professional Staff: Staff Evaluation
(New)
#4122
Support Staff: Nondiscrimination
and Equal Employment Opportunity
(Revision)
#5460.01
Students: Diploma Deferral (New)
#6320
Finances: Purchasing (New)
#7540.03
Property: Student Network and
Internet Acceptable Use and Safety
(Revision)
#7540.04
Property: Staff Network and
(Revision)
#8141
Operations: Required Reporting of
Staff Conduct (New)
#8210
Operations: School Calendar
(Revision)
#8330
Operations: Student Records
(Revision)
Operations: Environmental Health
#8405
and Safety Program (Revision)
(Neola must renumber as 8451 is
already in use, possibly use #8454)
#8454
Operations: Pediculosis/Head Lice
(New)
#8462
Operations: Student Abuse and
Neglect (Revision)
#8500
Operations: Food Services
(Revision)
#8540
Operations: Vending Machines
(New)
#9160
Relations: Public Attendance at
School Events (Revision)
7. Items for Next Agenda: High School Play, Property
Acquisition, State Convention Report, Tony Evers Fair
Funding Recommendation, Grade 5 to Middle School Report
8. Closed Session: Diana Bohman moved, Mike Turner
seconded to move to closed session pursuant to State Statutes
19.85(1)(f), for the purpose of considering medical, social
or personal histories of a specific person and acceptance of
teacher resignation. Roll call vote: Kelly Loken-aye, Diana
Bohman-aye, Sandi Keener-aye, Mike Turner-aye, Bob
Stuczynski-aye. Adjourned to closed session.
9. Return to Open Session: Mike Turner moved, Diana
Bohman seconded to return to open session. The motion
carried on a voice vote.
A. Take Possible Action on Closed Session Items: Mike
Turner moved, Kelly Loken seconded to accept letter of
resignation from Harry Page, MS/HS Teach Ed Teacher,
effective immediately. The motion carried on a voice
vote. Copy attached.
10. Adjourn: Kelly Loken moved, Bob Stuczynski seconded to
vote.
JANUARY 28, 2013 SCHOOL BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Call to Order: The regular meeting of the Tomorrow River
School Board was called to order at 7:00 p.m. in the District
Board Room by President Sandi Keener. In attendance:
Board members present included Kelly Loken, Diana
Bohman, Sandi Keener, Mike Turner, and Bob Stuczynski.
Also present: LeAnn Chase, Mike Toelle, Phil Tubbs, Becky
Galvin, Karoleen Glenzer and Celeste Paugel.
Pledge of Allegiance: President Sandi Keener led the Pledge
of Allegiance.
Public Participation According to Policy #0167.3: No
participation requested.
Informational Items
4.1 Future Board Meeting Dates: Regular meeting dates
confirmed for Mondays, February 11 & 25, 2013.
4.2 Set March Regular Board Meeting Date/s: Regular
meeting dates set for Monday, March 11 and Tuesday,
March 19, 2013. Copy attached.
4.3 Report on the WASB State Education Convention,
January 23-25 in Milwaukee: Reviewed summary
reports from Kelly Loken and LeAnn Chase. Copies
attached. Diana Bohman reported on the delegate
meetings. Diana Bohman and Bob Stuczynski
reported on sessions attended during the convention.
4.4 Information/Report on Building Security: Phil Tubbs
escorted SRT Team Leader Bob Wanta around
building. He was very impressed with security in
place such as door numbering and wireless camera
system. He also pointed out areas for improvement.
4.5 Building Referendum Update: Mike Turner reported
updates from the project committee including Middle
School gym locker room renovations, new classrooms
and bumping out new cafeteria to save the existing two
classrooms.
4.6 Report on Grade 5 Transition to Middle School: Phil
Tubbs reviewed committee members and current areas
of discussion such as physical education, lunch/recess,
class schedules and extra-curricular activities being
affected. Copy attached.
4.7 WASB Legal and Human Resources Conference:
LeAnn Chase and Becky Galvin are registered to
attend February 15, 2013, and Diana Bohman and
Mike Turner are registered to attend February 15 and
March 7, 2013 at the Stevens Point Holiday Inn.
4.8 WASB Finance Seminar and Day at the Capitol:
Finance seminar being held Tuesday, March 12, 2013
at Monona Terrace in Madison, and Day at the Capitol
being held Wednesday, March 13, 2013. Board
Members interested need to contact Marilyn in the
District Office to register. Copy attached.
4.9 January Tax Levy Payments: Reviewed 2012-13 tax
levy payments received to date. Copy attached.
Recommend Approval of Consent Agenda: Kelly Loken
moved, Diana Bohman seconded to approve the consent
agenda as presented. The motion carried on a voice vote.
5.1 Approval of Minutes
5.1.1 Regular Board Meeting of January 14, 2013
5.1.2 Special Board Meeting/Meeting of District
Electors of January 9, 2013
5.1.3 Finance Committee Meeting of December 10,
2012
5.1.4 Building Project Committee Meeting of
January 8, 2013
5.2 Personnel
5.2.1 Co-Curricular Contracts: Connor Avery
(Junior High Wrestling Coach), Mark Lusic
(Weight Room Supervisor April 1, 2013
through June 7, 2013). Copies attached.
5.2.2 Leave Request: Leave without pay request
from Beth Shore. Copy attached.
Discussion/Action Items
6.1 Review and Possibly Approve Purchase of Framed
Aerial Print/s: Two framed aerial pictures were
presented to the Board, one of the school district
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
6.9
6.10
6.11
6.12
6.13
6.14
property and one of the whole village. Mike Turner
sections A and B. See list below. Copies attached.
moved, Kelly Loken seconded to purchase the school
#0160
Bylaws: Meetings/Closed Session
(Revision)
district portrait at a cost of $235. The motion carried
#3122
Professional Staff:
on a voice vote.
Review and Possibly Approve Proposal for High
Nondiscrimination and Equal
School Musical/Play: Anticipated costs for the spring
Employment Opportunity
production of “Guys and Dolls” were reviewed. Copy
(Revision)
attached.
#3140
Professional Staff: Termination,
Discuss and Possibly Approve Increase in
Non-Renewal and Resignation
Maintenance/Custodial/Bus Driver Position to Include
(Revision)
Summer Schedule/Hours for Suitable Candidate:
#3220
Professional Staff: Staff Evaluation
(New)
the addition of summer hours to current bus driver/
#4122
Support Staff: Nondiscrimination
custodial position as presented. The motion carried on
and Equal Employment Opportunity
a voice vote. Copy attached.
(Revision)
Review and Possibly Approve Proposal for Increase
#5460.01
Students: Diploma Deferral (New)
#6320
Finances: Purchasing (New)
in Fees Paid to Sport Officials: Phil Tubbs explained
#7540.03
the lack of quality officials for athletic competitions
Property: Student Network and
because Amherst is one of the lowest paying schools.
Kelly Loken moved, Bob Stuczynski seconded
(Revision)
to approve the proposed official rate increases as
#7540.04
Property: Staff Network and
presented to begin with the Spring 2013 season. The
(Revision)
Review and Possibly Approve EBD Teacher Based
#8141
Operations: Required Reporting of
on Need: Currently teaching EBD students with CD
Staff Conduct (New)
students and this is not working to meet individual IEP
#8210
Operations: School Calendar
requirements. Mike Turner moved, Diana Bohman
(Revision)
seconded to approve hiring a 1.0 FTE EBD teacher
#8330
Operations: Student Records
immediately as proposed. The motion carried on a
(Revision)
Operations: Environmental Health
voice vote. Copy attached.
#8405
Review and Possibly Approve Additional Staffing
and Safety Program (Revision)
(Neola must renumber as 8451 is
for RTI: Due to the statewide initiative to service
individual students in danger of failing, the need for
already in use, possibly use #8454)
a reading specialist to head RTI is needed. Diana
#8454
Operations: Pediculosis/Head Lice
Bohman moved, Mike Turner seconded to approve
(New)
hiring a 1.0 FTE RTI Specialist as proposed. The
#8462
Operations: Student Abuse and
Neglect (Revision)
Discuss Location of High School Prom: LeAnn
#8500
Operations: Food Services
Chase discussed prom being held offsite last year and
(Revision)
Operations: Vending Machines
is asking Board Members for input moving forward.
#8540
Board Members agreed offsite locations for such
(New)
Relations: Public Attendance at
events must be presented and approved at a regular
#9160
board meeting prior to the event.
School Events (Revision)
Review and Possibly Approve Early Graduation
7. Items for Next Agenda: Nothing discussed.
Request for January 2014: Diana Bohman moved,
8. Closed Session: Diana Bohman moved, Bob Stuczynski
Kelly Loken seconded to approve early graduation
seconded to move to closed session pursuant to State
request from Neva Borski to graduate January 2014.
Statutes 19.85(1)(c)(e)(f), for the purpose of considering
The motion carried on a voice vote. Copy attached.
medical, social or personal histories of a specific person and
Review and Possibly Adopt Resolution on DPI Fair
mandatory reporting, and request for a closed session meeting
Funding: Diana Bohman requested support of all
to discuss employment contract/s. Roll call vote: Kelly
Board Members for Tony Evers fair funding proposal.
Loken-aye, Diana Bohman – aye, Sandi Keener – aye, Mike
Diana Bohman moved, Kelly Loken seconded to
Turner-aye, Bob Stuczynski – aye. Adjourned to closed
approve resolution reading “The Tomorrow River
session.
School District Board of Education resolves that our
9. Return to Open Session: Bob Stuczynski moved, Kelly
Governor and Legislature support and enact the ‘Fair
Loken seconded to return to open session. The motion
Funding of Our Future Plan’ that has been proposed by
carried on a voice vote.
the Wisconsin Department of Education for the 2013A. Take possible action on Closed Session Items: No action
15 state budget.” The motion carried on a voice vote
taken.
with Bob Stuczynski abstaining. Copy attached.
10. Adjourn: Bob Stuczynski moved, Mike Turner seconded to
Discuss Property Acquisition and Reps to Meet
with Ruder Ware/Terri Smith: The next step for the
vote.
adjacent property acquisition is the meet with lawyer
from Ruder Ware. Mike Turner and Diana Bohman
will attend this meeting as Board representatives.
Discuss and Possibly Approve
Modification/s to the Building Project Plan:
Building project committee is proposing
expending less money on the middle school
2013 SPRING ELECTION NOTICE
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF THE TOMORROW RIVER
locker room project to save existing two
classrooms being eliminated by the new
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to qualified electors of the School District
cafeteria. Mike Turner moved, Kelly Loken
of the Tomorrow River, Villages of Amherst, Amherst Junction and
seconded to revise plans for the middle
Nelsonville; Towns of Amherst, Buena Vista, Lanark, New Hope and
school locker room to save the two existing
Stockton, County of Portage, State of Wisconsin that on
middle school classrooms and move the new
April 2, 2013
cafeteria out. The motion carried on a voice
being the first Tuesday of April, 2013, the Election of School Board
vote.
Members will be held at your regular polling place. All locations will be
open at 7 a.m. and will close at 8 p.m.
Review and Possibly Approve Contract
Amendment for Professional Services of
The following are candidates for a three-year term. School Board members
Bray Associates Architects, Inc. for the
are elected at large in the district. Two members will be elected.
Proposed Building and Site Improvements
MARK J. KRYSHAK
Project: During a meeting with Bray
JOHN COWDEN
Associates and Point of Beginning it was
DIANA L. BOHMAN
explained there will be no duplication of
LeAnn Chase, Election Clerk
service costs to approve the contracts listed
in items 6.12 and 6.13. Bob Stuczynski
moved, Diana Bohman seconded to approve
OFFICIAL SCHOOL BOARD BALLOT
proposed amendment to the Bray Associates
for the School District of the Tomorrow River, Wisconsin
Architects, Inc. contract. The motion carried
NOTICE TO ELECTORS:
THIS BALLOT MAY BE INVALID UNLESS
on a voice vote. Copy attached.
INITIALED BY 2 ELECTION INSPECTORS. IF CAST AS AN ABSENTEE
BALLOT, THE BALLOT MUST BEAR THE INITIALS OF THE MUNICIPAL
Review and Possibly Approve Civil
CLERK OR DEPUTY CLERK.
Engineering Proposal for Storm Water,
To vote for a candidate whose name is printed on the ballot, make a cross (X) in
Permit Preparation and Construction
the square at the RIGHT of the name of the candidate for whom you desire to vote.
Services for the Proposed Building and
To vote for a person whose name does not appear on the ballot, write the name in
Site Improvements Project from Point of
the blank space provided for the purpose.
Beginning, Inc.: Bob Stuczynski moved,
* * * VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWO * * *
Diana Bohman seconded to approve
proposed civil engineering contract from
School Board Member
VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN 2
Point of Beginning, Inc. as presented. The
motion carried on a voice vote. Copy
attached.
MARK J. KRYSHAK .................................................................................
Second Reading and Possible Adoption of
JOHN COWDEN ......................................................................................
Neola New Policies and Revisions: Mike
DIANA L.BOHMAN .................................................................................
Turner moved, Kelly Loken seconded to
..................................................................................................................
adopt new and revised Neola policies as
..................................................................................................................
presented with revisions to policy #8540
March 2013
Attention Residents
of the Tomorrow River
School District
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 4, 2013 to participate in an opportunity to raise money for athletics AND benefit you too!!
Are you tired of those old TV’s collecting dust; sick of looking at old computer monitors, keyboards, CPUs, phones, etc? Here is your chance to get rid
those electronics and help the Athletic Department at the same time.
The electronics fundraiser will be on Saturday, May 4 in the school parking
lot beginning at 8:00am. Bring in old electronics to be recycled at a nominal
fee. More information will be available as the date approaches.
FBLA members advancing to state include: Back row, left to right, Sidney Dombrowski, Emily Dalsky, Alyssa Eiden, Sawyer Hintz, Daniel
Cronce, Cameron Gaulke. Second Row, Left to Right, Morgan Lepak,
Gabby Peterson, Marisa Loken, Mickey Gosh, Kirsten Wideman, Alexis
Nelson, Emma Barnes, Amy Sutheimer, Sam Chesmore. Front Row, Left
to Right, Alayna Holderman, Alex Oliver, Jon Konkol, Caleb Glennon,
Jeremy Oney, Margaret Eddy, Lily Kraft, Chyaine Rosenthal.
FBLA State Competitors
By Alexis Nelson and Morgan Lepak
On February 2, 2013 55 FBLA members attended the Future Business Leaders of
America Competition at Mid-State Technical College. Twenty-four of those members are
advancing to the State FBLA Competition in Wisconsin Dells. Should the students advance
to Nationals, they will compete in Anaheim, California this summer. Joy Hoeft is the FBLA
advisor.
ACT Prep Course
Offered in Amherst
Submitted by Shelley Swanson
High School Counselor
Amherst high school will be offering an ACT Test Prep Course on Thursday,
April 4th from 8:10-3:00pm at the Jensen Center. The cost of the course is $20.00,
lunch included. CESA 5 representative Juliee Dredske, will be running the prep
course. She will cover testing strategies, goal setting, practice tests, subject
review, etc. Register by calling 715-815-5522 ext. or by email at sswanson@
amherst.k12.wi.us.
From the High School Principal,
Mark Luetschwager
Attention All 7th-12th Grade Students, Parents, Counselors & Teachers!!!
You are invited to attend
Post-Secondary Night
Wednesday, March 13th, 2013
at Stevens Point Area Senior High (SPASH)
5:30 – 8 p.m.
Visit with college representatives and learn about:
Admission requirements, programs of study, military options and more!
This year’s representatives will be here from:
Air Force
Army
Army National Guard
The Arts Institute
Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC)
Bellin College of Nursing
Beloit College
Cardinal Stritch University
Carroll University
Coe University
Cornell College
Fabco Equipment Inc
Fox Valley Technical College
Gill-Tech Academy of Hair Design
Globe University
Great Lakes Higher Education
Gustavus Adolphus College
Iowa State University
Lakeland College
Lake Superior State University
Lawrence University
Lincoln College - Illinios
Luther College
Madison Media Institute
Marian University
Marine Corps
Marquette University
Michigan Tech
Mid-State Tech & Disability Coordinator
Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design
Mount Mary College
Navy
Northcentral Technical College
Northern Michigan University
Northland College
Northwestern College
Rasmussen College
Ripon College
Silver Lake College
SPASH Career Center
St. Katherine University - Minnesota
St. Mary’s University - Minnesota
St. Norbert College
Tulsa Welding School
University of Minnesota-Duluth
University of Minnesota-Mankato
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
University of St. Thomas
Universal Technical Institute - Illinois
UW-Eau Claire
UW-Green Bay
UW–La Crosse
UW-Madison
UW-Marathon County
UW-Milwaukee
UW-Oshkosh
UW-Parkside
UW-Plattville
UW-River Falls
UW-Stevens Point
UW-Stout
UWSP-ROTC
UW-Stevens Point & Disability
Coordinator
UW-Wood/Marshfield County
Viterbo University
Waldorf College
Wartburg College
Winona State University
World Language AP/Placement
Tips for Post-Secondary Night
o Ask them a question such as:
• What are your admissions requirements (gpa, rank, ACT)?
• What classes should I take during high school?
• What makes your campus different than other campuses?
• What can I do to make myself stand out?
• How much does your school cost and are there scholarships?
• What are your most popular and unique majors from their programs?
o Seniors….don’t forget to ask about:
• Confirming your enrollment
• Tuition and housing deposits
• Placement tests and FAFSA –financial aid
Another great winter sports season
is winding down and I think it is time
to thank our basketball and wrestling
coaches. Greg Jensen, Jay Pitt, and Matt
Colemer do a fantastic job with our boys
and girls basketball teams, and Matt with
our wrestling team. It is so nice to be able
to watch our wonderful students compete
during the winter months. This year
winter seems to be hanging on until the
bitter end. The trips to the gym to watch
our athletes compete have made the crazy
winter weather a little more bearable. As
it stands today congratulations goes out to
our conference champion boys basketball
team and our girls are currently in first
place with one game left to play. Good
luck in the final game and the playoffs
basketball players. Wrestling had another
good year with several wrestlers just
missing out on a trip to the state wrestling
meet. Matt Colemer continues to build a
strong wrestling program here at Amherst
high school.
Class scheduling for the 2013-14
school year is in full swing. We have
received all of our course requests
from the students and are finalizing our
scheduling grid. This year scheduling will
be a little different in the fact that with
several teachers retiring in our elective
areas, we will be posting some additional
class offerings late that students will be
able to register for. We want to allow our
new hires the opportunity to post a class
or two that allow them to teach to their
strengths while still meeting the curricular
needs of our district. It is always a double
edge sword when teachers retire, you hate
to lose the expertise of a veteran teacher,
but you love the new ideas and energy of
a new teacher. We have been blessed with
such a great teaching staff at Amherst
high school. I’m sure our new staff will
fit the mold of high expectations and the
rigorous teaching standards our current
staff exhibits.
We final piece of news I want to share
with you is that we are moving into an
area of curriculum called Project Lead
the Way. It is a nationwide program that
will create advanced opportunities for our
students in the curricular area of Science,
Technical Education, and Math. Project
Lead the Way will provide curricular
assistance and training in the fields of
engineering and the biomedical fields to
our staff and students; we will slowly
infuse the curriculum over a three year
time period allowing for adjustments in
scheduling and staff development. Project
Lead the Way will provide our students
with some fantastic career exploration
and enhanced learning opportunities
in the engineering field along with the
biomedical professions. I will provide
more information on Project Lead the
Way in future newsletters, for now keep
on shoveling and let’s hope the ground
hog was correct this year. I love winter,
but the thought of spring is looking
awfully nice right now.
Notice to parents and friends of
Tomorrow River Schools Athletes
You probably have noticed a lack of Girls Basketball photos in the Spirit so far this
year. If you have taken game photos and would like to share them with us, please send
them to ocspirit@mac.com or drop them off at the Jensen Center for submission to
the paper. It’s a shame to not share their success this year along with our many other
team events. Please include a caption with names of players and any details of the
event if possible. Also, let us know who to give credit for the photos.
—Thanks from the Spirit Staff
Amherst Middle School Term 2 Honor Students
Highest Honors
(4.0 GPA)
Grade 8:
EMILY J. DEYO
ELIZABETH M. GBUREK
BECCA J. GLISCZINSKI
AIMEE E. HINTZ
BRANDON L. KONKOL
MEGAN E. STRUBLE
SUZANNE D. STUEBS
SAMANTHA E. YENTER
KODEE J. ZARNKE
SAMANTHA M. ZBLEWSKI
GARRETT J. HERMSEN
GEENA E. JENSEN
MAKAYLA R. KONKOL
EMILY A. MESHAK
VINCENT T. OMERNIK
JOSHUA A. RIECK
TANNER A. SCHELVAN
CARSON A. SNELLER
NATHAN S. STRUBLE
NOLAN P. STRUBLE
IAN I. WALDOCH
High Honors
(3.6 – 3.99 GPA)
Grade 8:
Grade 7:
URSA N. ANDERSON
AUSTINE AVERY
SAWYER F. EIDEN
SYDNEY M. HINTZ
ROBERT W. JOHANNES
ALLYSON J. LAIDLAW
EMILY A. OMERNIK
MASON T. PETERSON
TY S. PETERSON
DAVID B. RIECK
CAZMIN L. SIMKOWSKI
SHELBY R. STUCZYNSKI
ALISON P. SUSKI
MAXWELL R. VILLNOW
Grade 6:
KATLA M. ANDERSON
RAE M. BALLINGER
AMARA D. BENN
MARIAH L. COHEN
MADELYN J. DAVID
LINDSAY M. DOSE
EMILY M. FEIST
BROGAN B. GLENNON
JACKSON C. GLISCZINSKI
BRENNER I. GOSH
ELIZABETH G. ANDERSEN
KATHRYN J. BORGEN
MELISSA M. DECKER
RACHEL A. DOMBROWSKI
SAMUEL W. DOSE
MAYA ELWOOD
SHELBY GALLOWAY
KRISTA A. HINTZ
SYDNEY K. KARCH
MEAGAN R. KIZEWSKI
JAMIE N. LEATHERMAN
KARLEE M. MAVES
KAYLEY M. MCDOWELL
AMANDA R. MORAN
ALYSSA M. PAGEL
MOLLY M. REICHERT
CARSON O. RIECKMANN
LILIA W. ZABLER
Grade 7:
DAKOTA D. ALDRICH
HALEY M. ANDERSEN
CHANDLER A. BENN
MICHELLE M. CHOJNACKI
DYLAN G. DOMBROWSKI
MARCUS J. GLODOWSKI
COLTON J. GROHOLSKI
Area Nordic Skiers, Lily Kraft, Alissa
Niggeman and Emma Barnes
JESSICA J. GUTSCHOW
MADISYN R. HAAS
ALEXIS HAFERBECKER
OLIVIA K. HELBACH
MIKAELA L. HILKER
BRITTNEY M. KIZEWSKI
GRANT W. KROGWOLD
JARED T. LEA
OLIVIA L. LEHMAN
JENNA L. LIEBE
CAMDON M. LINTON
JACLYN C. LUCHT
TRENT L. MILLER
JON P. NESOVANOVIC
DAWSON J. O’BRIEN
MIKAYLA P. PEPLINSKI
TAYLOR C. RETZKE
TAYLOR M. RUBEY
MEGHAN E. STRANSKY
DEVIN M. TOTH
COLE J. VANNUYS
MASON L. WIDEMAN
COURTNEY L. WUTHRICH
KARISSA M. YEHLING
Grade 6:
LAUREN A. BOELTE
MATTHEW P. BORGEN
SKYLAR BRICCO
KADIN R. CONRADT
ETHAN J. EBERT
ANGELA EDELBURG
ASHLEY A. GROSHEK
RACHEL G. KLUVER
KYLE J. KONKOL
DYLAN A. KOSTUCH
ANTHONY V. KREBSBACH
EMALIE M. LIGMAN
MATTHEW MARCH
PRESTON S. MILLER
GRACE T. MOE
RACHEL A. OSTROWSKI
KRISTIN A. PAGEL
Middle School athletes Seth Barnes (4th) and
Sam Williams (2nd) following the awards ceremony at Rhinelander High School.
ALEXIS M. PLASKI
ISAAC J. PREMUS
ZACHARY J. TOELLE
BENJAMIN G. VILLNOW
VICTORIA A. WEIER
ISAAC J. WINKELMAN
Honors (3.0 – 3.599
GPA)
Grade 8:
SETH D. BARNES
DEZIRAE BECKWITH
ANNA M. BENJAMIN
JOSHUA J. CISEWSKI
KENDRA L. DOMBROWSKI
MAX E. DOMBROWSKI
ADAM B. HOFFMANN
MATTHEW J. KROPIDLOWSKI
NICHOLAS LEA
CARSON LINDE
KASSIDY E. MARTIN
ANGEL NIEVES
MOLLY A. PIONKOWSKI
JOSHUA SCHUDE
EMILY M. SOPA
JOHN R. STANISLAWSKI
RYAN TAUTGES
RYAN THOMAS
Grade 7:
USKANA A. ALIMI
THOMAS E. ANDERSEN
KAYLEY S. BACH
SHAYNA P. CISEWSKI
KAYLI A. CONRADT
KYRSTEN M. CULVER
KASEY K. DOMBROWSKI
BRAYDON J. ENGEBRETSON
RYLIE E. ESTEP
GRIFFIN W. FIRKUS
KYLE D. GLODOWSKI
BRYCE W. HEIMAN
BRYCE C. HOLDERMAN
DILLON T. HUNT
COLE M. MCKENZIE
DAWSON J. MEVERDEN
STEPHANIE J. MURPHY
RHYAN M. NEMZOFF
DANIEL J. OSTROWSKI
RILEY J. PATOKA
SAXON H. SWAN
MITCHELL S. TREBE
MEAGHAN S. WALL
CARTER M. ZBLEWSKI
Grade 6:
PETER J. BARNES
MADDIE J. BLOCH
ALEX J. BREED
MITCHEL R. BRENNER
SHAILYN K. BROOKS
ALEXANDRIA N. COLLINS
LUCAS EDELBURG
MAKAYLA A. EVERSON
STEPHANIE M. FELLAND
ANTON J. FLETCHER
CASSANDRA H. FLETCHER
CASSANDRA L. GARCEAU
LAUREN GOLDBERGER
HANNAH R. HOFFMAN
JORDAN R. HUNGER
AMELIA J. KURSZEWSKI
HAILEY J. MAKUSKI
MAKAYLA D. NIGGEMANN
JESSA L. NORD
BLAKE M. NOWAK
REBECCA J. OSTROWSKI
ZACHARY T. PEPLINSKI
JENNAVEE L. RYBICKI
ERIC A. SPAULDING
URIAH M. TRZEBIATOWSKI
RENEE L. WHEELER
ANTON J. ZANELLA
Trent Miller at the start of the classic race. Skiers start every 15 seconds. Nordic Skiers compete at
‘Sprints Around the Capital’
By Patty Mork
February 16-17th, Nordic skiers from the Iola Winter
Sports Club traveled to Madison for their annual Winterfest
and competed in the “sprints around the capital”. Over 90
truckloads of snow was hauled in to transform the streets
around the capital to create this course. It is a challenging
event for skiers to participate in and exciting for spectators
as they sprint around the capital in team relays and
individual events.
Saturday evening in temps hovering around zero with
a breeze off Lake Mendota IWSC’s team, Emma Barnes,
Lily Kraft and Jessica Timerman, placed 5th in the classical
team relays.
Sunday started out a little warmer, 12 degrees with
sunshine, for the individual freestyle (or skate skiing)
sprints. Representing the middle school was Seth Barnes,
Sam Williams, Anna Zajakowski and Mya Zajakowski.
Another favorite, Peter Barnes, was unable to compete due
to illness. High school skiers showcased Emma Barnes,
Lily Kraft, Jessica Timerman and Sean McGibbon.
Winning hardware in the final heat for middle school
freestyle was Anna Zajakowski with a 2nd place finish and
her sister Mya just seconds behind for 3rd place. The final
heat for boys middle school had Seth Barnes finishing 3rd
and Sam Williams in 5th. High school finishers in the final
heat were Emma Barnes placing 4th and Sean McGibbon
6th.
The numbers don’t tell the whole story as there were
many fast heats with exciting finishes, often times relying
on a photo finish to determine the placement. This group of
skiers is exceptional and IWSC is fortunate to have all but
one returning to next year’s ski team. Jessica Timerman
will be graduating this spring. After skiing 6 years with the
team, it will be hard to let her go.
News from the
Second Grade
By Mrs. Zimmerman
Is it Spring yet? That is always a split
decision when it comes to second graders
and their teachers. Some would like the
snow to stay forever, and some can’t wait
for Spring to come. The adults are usually
ready for Spring to make its arrival!
In Reading, we have looked at the differences in fairy tales, folk tales and fables.
There are so many different versions of
these stories it is fun to see how each author puts their own spin on these timeless
tales!
In Science, we are working on our Solar
System unit! We will write reports, make
posters, and learn a lot of different facts
about the planets.
In Math, we will be looking at time and
money. What child doesn’t want to learn
about money? They love to spend it, now
they need to understand the value of it.
Thank you to all parents for coming to
our parent-teacher conferences. We love
being able to talk with you about your
child. Hopefully, you learned some more
about what is happening in your child’s
classroom.
Spring Break is on its way! Hopefully
you enjoy the time off and the beautiful
weather! Think Spring!!
From the ES
Counselor
In classroom guidance we are working on personal safety which has four main themes:
support network, safety rules, appropriate and
inappropriate touch and assertiveness. Some tips
for parents from “Be Smart: Say No to Strangers”
include:
Talk to your child about who is a stranger
Keep a recent photo of your child
Carefully check all babysitter references
Never leave small children alone or unattended
in a car or in public
Be sure your child knows his/her name, address, and phone number. Show your child how to
use 911.
Be actively involved in your child’s life.
Rehearse possible “stranger” situations with
your child.
The next unit will be on alcohol and drug
awareness. We will learn how alcohol, tobacco
and other drugs affect our body. We will also discuss peer pressure. The last unit of the year will be
on careers.
Groups at this time are: Friendship in grade
one and New Hope in grades 3, 4 and 5. New
Hope is for students who have had someone close
to them die. They make a booklet and can share
feelings and learn coping strategies.
If your child at any time needs school supplies, please let us know. We would be happy to
share the many supplies given to us by generous
community members.
From the Elementary School
Principal, Mike Toelle
Being Flexible during
the Construction Phase
Change just seems to be a part of what has been taking place at
Amherst in the last few years. As a district we’ll see major changes to
the building next year with construction starting in either late May or early
June. In the next few weeks we should be receiving a construction timeline
document which will allow us to work out room placements for next school
year, develop a traffic flow for parent drop off, and address parking issues
due to temporary loss of spaces. The classroom placements will be the
easy part but addressing how the parent drop-off for next school year may
be challenging. When construction starts the current parent drop-off loop
will be taken out to accommodate the new 4K/5K classrooms. The new fire
lane which will serve as the bus loop will be started and may be usable next
school year but if not we may have to use our current bus loop for busses
and parent drop-off. This would create some challenges and flexibility
would be needed to make this temporary plan work. Safety is a big concern
but if we all keep safety in mind and drive slow the students should be safe.
Students will also need to be flexible during the school year as likely when
the 4K/5K rooms are finished (January) classroom moves will start. That
would mean taking everything out of the room and moving it to the new
location. Some additional cleaning would then take place in the recently
vacated rooms which would be followed by another series of classroom
moves.
I’ll continue to give updates related to the building project and
anticipate we should have solutions to the drop-off and parking issue by the
end of the school year.
As the article title states if we all work together and remain flexible
during the construction phase, keeping in mind the big picture of how
fortunate we are to provide our students such a wonderful end product of
new classrooms and cafeteria, this should work out just fine. Until next
month, stay healthy and safe.
Class Placement
Requests
Emily Meshak, Rae Ballinger, Dr. Larry Sheckel, Joshua Rieck, Carson
Sneller, and Adam Wise on stage with Mr. Science at the Jensen Center.
Mr. Science
By Nolan Struble and Zach Toelle
Mr. Science, an amazing presenter about various laws and rules about science, amazed us and
our fellow students on Monday, February 3 at
the Jensen Center. He did this with sleight of
hand tricks, and odds and ends that effectively
demonstrated laws of science in a fun, interesting
way. Back in the day, Mr. Science (a.k.a Dr. Larry
Scheckel) was one of Mr. Tubbs’ favorite science
teachers from Tomah, WI. When Mr. Science
demonstrated his tricks he had students come up
and help, whether it was holding a leaf blower,
or attempting to stick a large, wooden toothpick
through a balloon without it popping. One demon-
stration used a garbage can and a fog machine to
blow fog rings that you were able to see. Another
included using ping pong balls and a leaf blower
to show the suction power of air, or Bernoulli’s
Principle. All in all the students had fun and would
love it if he came back. Here are some quotes from
students about what they thought: “He was awesome, he was funny, the whole presentation was
great!” said Austin Bach. Amelia Kurszewski said,
“ He taught us stuff about science, and it wasn’t
boring!” “I loved the toys and stuff he had, it was
really fun. I hope he can come again.” commented
Katla Anderson. The students really liked the presentation, and we all hope he can come again!
Busy in Fifth Grade
natives and how to say no to peer pressure. Students demonstrated the skills they learned during
the parent program on Wednesday, February 13.
Hello from 5th grade! We are in our
They did a great job!
‘busy’ time of the year here! Things really speed
Coming up in March fifth grade will be going on
up after Winter Break and don’t slow down until
a field trip once again to The Grand Opera House
the last day of school in June!
in Oshkosh to see a play called “The Civil War”.
Fifth graders were busy with Human Growth
In April, we will also be participating in the Arbor
and Development and CounterACT in January!
Day Celebration on Friday, April 26th at 1:00, as
During CounterACT Officer Tyler Miller came
is tradition. And in May, fifth graders will be gointo each classroom and taught students about the ing to Heritage Hill in Green Bay to learn about
consequences of using drugs, alcohol, or violence. what a community in Wisconsin looked like back
The students learned about fun, safe and free alter- in the 1800’s.
By Sarah Scheunemann
Each spring there is considerable discussion about placing children
in classes for the next school year. In my February of 2012 news article I
stated the 2012/13 school year would likely be the last year we would accept
parent requests.
It’s official – we will not be accepting parent requests for the
2013/14 school year and beyond. As a staff we spend countless hours
forming well-balanced classes so that all children will have an opportunity
to learn and to grow both academically and socially in the best possible
setting.
When classes are structured, we follow a clear set of guidelines.
Classes are formed into deliberate heterogeneous (mixed) groups with the
following in mind: an even boy-girl balance, a full range of aptitudes, an
even proportion of abilities and learning styles, an equal number of pupils
in each class at each grade level, and placement of children who need extra
support services following IDEA laws for inclusion and Title I guidelines.
Once these factors have been considered, teachers will begin to
build a class of children who show promise of working well together. At
this point attempts are made to match pupil and teacher personality and
style. We rely on observations made by the teachers during the course of
the current school year so that our decisions are based on experiences with
children.
As I stated last year The State of Wisconsin has created very
specific guidelines related to teacher evaluation with 50% of the evaluation
being tied to student growth. In order to get the best possible environment
to allow the teachers to be successful with the students we need to have
control on overall placement of students, which is the biggest reason for this
change.
Schools are also graded on how well students progress each
school year and last year Amherst Elementary School received an “Exceeds
Expectations” from the department of Public Instruction. In order to
continue to excel as a school the added flexibility will be critical. If you do
have specific concerns over this decision feel free to contact me via e-mail,
phone, or stop in to make an appointment.
Important March and Early April Dates
March 1st, Late Start, School Starts at 9:30
March 7th and 8th - 4K/5K Screening (No School for
4K and 5K students)
March 22nd – Last day of Term, Students Released
at Noon
March 25th – 29th – Spring Break, No School
April 1st will be a school day as make-up for our
first snow day
April 5th, Late Start, School starts at 9:30
March 2013
4K kids are ‘sprouting up’!
BY Jillian Hornick and Susan Toelle
4K Teachers
Spring is approaching! We can almost hear the robins now. Well, wishful
thinking never hurts. Our little learners sure are working hard. They are growing
both academically and physically. They started the year so small, but they look like
kindergarteners now. We had a great Valentine’s Day party, sledding party, and
pajama movie day. This month we will be learning about the farm and nursery rhymes.
We will study farm animals, crops and recite familiar children’s rhymes. We have
been busy writing lots of stories, and will continue learning about rhyming words,
letter and number recognition. We are so proud of all they have accomplished in such
a short amount of time! Please remember there is no 4K on March 7th to Screening and
4K Orientation. Also remember there is no school March 25th through the 29th. Yeah
Spring Break!
As always thank you all for your continued support of this program. 4K is here
in Amherst because we believe in providing equal access to quality early learning
experiences for all children.
The Amherst Elementary PBIS Team
“Falcon Way” 2nd Quarter Reward Winners include: Front Row-Maxim Wise
Second Row: Isaac Glodowski, Michael Rzentkowski, Carson Zietlow, Jacob
Derezinski, Tyler Soulsby Third Row: Taryn Blanchard, Jenna Morgan, Julius
Lucht, Erin Lutz, Bryan Groshek, Brady Loken Missing from photo: Otto
Anglemeyer
The Falcon Has Landed
On Friday, January 25th, “Freddy” the Falcon came to the Amherst Elementary
School where students gathered in the elementary gym for their second quarterly reward
drawing. This was an exciting time for both students and staff members as they awaited
the announcements of the quarterly drawing winners. Two student names were drawn from
each grade level.
Our second quarter reward day was filled with exercise and fun! Students in 4K-1 had
the opportunity to go bowling at Whitetail Lanes and the students in grades 2-5 went to the
Stevens Point YMCA. These students enjoyed swimming and having fun in the teen center
and open gym with their friends. Awesome job students on being safe, responsible, and
respectful while we were out and about in our community. Keep up the great work!
Quarterly celebrations are a way to recognize students who are following the “Falcon
Way” and celebrate their role in helping create a positive school climate that focuses
on learning. Students who received a major infraction during this quarter took part in a
review activity that included discussions on past behaviors, review of current videos, and
goal setting for this next quarter. Our goal is for all students to follow the “Falcon Way”
throughout their day.
An exciting event that will be coming soon is a new playground video. This video will
demonstrate the “Falcon Way” to students when they are out at recess.
ATTENTION TO THOSE
INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING
IN YOUTH FOOTBALL OR
CHEERLEADING FOR THE FALL
2013 SEASON
– must be in 3rd-6th grade or 8 years old by 8/31/2013 to be
eligible!!!
Registration will be held in the Middle School Gym on Sunday, April
21st 2013 from 3:00 to 4:30 pm. Please plan to register in person
so we can fit your child for equipment and ensure we have proper
equipment for all participants.
Items Needed for Registration (forms are located on internet, www.
amherstfootball.org)
•
Official Application to Participate
•
Registration Fee (Football $75.00, Cheerleading $75.00 –
includes shoes)
•
Make Check Payable to Amherst Youth Football &
Cheerleading
•
Financial Aid will be available for those who qualify.
•
Code of Conduct
•
Alternate Year card if athlete has physical last year.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT REGISTRATION,
PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD
Pictured: Geena, Cassandra and Brittney
Area Girl Scouts
Thinking Day project:
‘Fighting Malaria One
Net at a Time’
The local Girl Scouts are collecting money to send to Africa to buy permanent
nets.
The nets cost $2 each. If you are interested in donating to their cause, please
call Rhonda at 715-570-0138 or Mary at 715-824-2024. They will be collecting
until the end of March.
Amherst Elementary
February PTO Meeting
Amherst Elementary PTO Meeting was held Monday, February 11th, 2013 at 6:00 in the
Elementary Art Room. The Treasurer’s report is $13,065.95, but receipts from the sledding
party still need to be submitted.
Recent purchase for the after school program – The officer team decided to pay for a new
cart that the after school program needed. It was purchased from Staples for $645.00.
Sledding party recap – Fran Peplinski submitted the wrap-up info and said that there were
between 250-300 students and family in attendance, which is one of the better turnouts so
far. Jennifer Culver volunteered to take over planning the sledding party for next year.
Fran has all of the notes from each year, so it should go smoothly.
Spaghetti dinner – Krista Bentley advised that PTO will be buying coffee since not much
was used last year, a large coffee will be purchased and the remainder will be donated to the
teachers. Mr. Toelle will be asked to provide the Gatorade. Some reservations and donations have already come in, so we are planning for a good turnout. There will be a tote in
the office for donations of the food and another note will be sent home as a reminder with
where to drop the food off and giving people an option of donating money if they cannot
attend.
Potluck meal for parent/teacher conferences – Melanie Cullen is working with the encouragement committee to line up people to bring in food, so all is set.
Grant opportunities and applications – Jennifer West has submitted a grant through Annie’s Project, which we have not heard from and also through Wood County for the school
garden, which was $5,000. Jennifer has contacted irrigation specialists to check into water options, which is the most expensive part of the program. She also advised that she is
working to put together a ‘business plan’ to bring to the school board to request support.
There are so many great options for learning in the garden, so we will continue to work towards this goal.
Playground planning meeting – There will be a playground meeting Monday, February
18th at 630pm at Whitetail Lanes, put on by the Referendum Committee. Members of the
community are invited to attend to discuss options that may be available. Kelly Loken and
Jennifer West will keep the PTO updated on what comes out of the meeting. It was brought
up that we would like to utilize local builders if possible.
Next meeting is Monday, March 11th at 600 in the Elementary Art Room
Elementary Finalists – 14 elementary students were finalists in the
Elementary School Spelling Bee. Missing: Jade Anthony
Elementary Winners – Third Place Winner , Kai Smith,
First Place winner, Melody Moore, Second Place Winner ,
Ava McKenzie.
Jade Anthony, another elementary
school student that participated in
the Elementary School Spelling
Bee
LEFT, Middle School
Finalists – 15 middle school
students participated in the
Middle School Spelling Bee.
RIGHT- Middle School
Winners – First Place
Winner-Lindsay Dose,
Second Place WinnerAimee Hintz
Amherst salutes the Spelling Bee winners
The Tomorrow River School District held
its 37th Annual School Spelling Bees in late
January.
To prepare for the two contests, 4th and
5th graders participated in classroom spelling bees. The top spellers in each grade then
earned positions in the Elementary School
Spelling Bee. On January 18, 2013, fourteen students participated in the Elementary
School Spelling Bee. Fourth grade participants included: Harleigh Firkus, Chase
Glodowski, Abigail Helbach, Samantha
Jastromski, Rachel Laidlaw, Ava McKenzie,
Grace Miller, and Kai Smith. Fifth grade
participants included: Jade Anthony, Morgan Gibbs, Olivia Ligman, Melody Moore,
Dylan Pacocha, Sylas Schaberg, The winners
of this year’s Amherst Elementary Spelling
Bee were Melody Moore (first place), Ava
McKenzie (second place), and Kai Smith
(third place).
As the Elementary School winners, Melody Moore, Ava McKenzie, and Kai Smith
earned an opportunity to compete in the Central Wisconsin Talented and Gifted Network
5th annual Elementary Invitational Spelling
Bee on January 22, 2013 in Reedsburg, WI.
Melody placed 4th out of 39 students.
In order to participate in the Middle
School Spelling Bee, 6th through 8th graders
tried out on written tests. The top 15 students
were then invited to participate in the Middle
School Spelling Bee. On January 31, 2013,
fifteen students from the Middle School
were invited to participate, including: Amara
Benn, Lindsay Dose, Lizzie Gburek, Jackson
Glisczinski, Aimee Hintz, Robert Johannes,
Sydney Karch, Meagan Kizewski, Jamie
Leatherman, Mason Peterson, Ty Peterson,
Technology Wizards
using new tablets in
third grade classes
By Cathy Matson
Amherst Elementary School students are moving full speed ahead with
technology! It is not uncommon to see children reading their Nooks or
Kindles, working on math fact software, or researching topics on the computers. Students practice their keyboarding skills in the computer lab during
their weekly lessons. Each child practices math facts on a daily basis at his
or her own level on the classroom computers. Third graders are expected to
have their addition and subtraction facts, as well as their multiplication and
division facts, mastered by the end of the school year. The extra computer
practice has really made a difference!
Recently students in Mrs. Matson’s class had the opportunity to read using their Nexus 7 Tablets. They shared stories with their kindergarten book
buddies. It was a wonderful way to interact and display their love of reading (and technology) with a younger student. The kindergarten students
enjoyed hearing a story about Clifford, and practicing their tablet skills. As
part of a unit on space exploration, the third graders also used a Sky App to
view the location of planets and constellations. With the introduction of so
many apps and online resources, information and resources are just a click
away. The Nexus 7 Tablets were purchased with funds from the Elementary
PTO. Thank you PTO for helping our students keep up with this changing
world.
These third grade students use tablets during their book club meetings.
Seated at the table are Alexa Shulfer, Dylan Werachowski,
Abby Robinson, Shelby Lutz, Stephanie Bandy, and Aubrey Little-Ebert.
Megan Struble, Nolan Struble, Cole Van
Nuys, and Ian Waldoch. The winners of this
year’s Amherst Middle School Spelling Bee
were Lindsay Dose (first place) and Aimee
Hintz (second place).
As the Middle School winners, Lindsay
Dose and Aimee Hintz earned invitations to
compete in the Regional Spelling Bee held
in Amherst at the Jensen Center on February
12th.
Congratulations to all the spelling bee participants!
Austen Hanneman, a
third grader in Mrs.
Matsons’s class, uses
a tablet to read with his
Book Buddy, Jason
Martin. Jason is a
kindergarten student in
Mrs. Oleson’s class.

Community - Tomorrow River

Transcription

Similar documents

28 • The Community Spirit January 2013

30 days

Cable Dahmer Chevrolet

Fundraiser for Diana - Englander Sports Pub

Full Brochure

Wisconsin TEAM BEEF - Wisconsin Beef Council

Amherst Middle School Boys Win Division Soccer

TownshiP Minutes AUGUST 6, 2OI2 7:00 the

May 17th 4 -7pm ...escape from the ordinary

Amherst Village Visual Preference Survey