KNOW YOUR SCHOOLS Highland CUSD No. 5
400 Broadway, Highland, IL 62249
Superintendent’s Message
By Mike Sutton Welcome to this edition of Know Your Schools. Know Your Schools is part of our commitment to you and the community to improve our communications with you, particularly your ability to access the information about your schools and the district which help you support your child’s learning. There are many people working on many parts to ensure that our schools are successful, showing that our teachers are dedicated and that we keep our students challenged, engaged, and reaching greater heights. I invite you to visit our website at highlandcusd5.org for current happenings throughout the district. You may be wondering how our school district is dealing with the fiscal crisis impacting many organizations in the State of Illinois. Our district was facing a $1.7 million deficit just a few short years ago. We were forced to reduce a number of positions and programs, as well as eliminating several programs. We currently employ approximately 20 less staff members than during the 2012 school year. The projected budget for the 2015-2016 school year includes a deficit of just over $250,000 in the operating funds, with $170,000 of the deficit located in the Education Fund. We have made tremendous strides toward achieving financial stability, though our goal of a balanced budget has not yet been achieved. We do expect to take a hit on next year’s general state aid revenue due to the reduced student enrollment this
school year. We had approximately 100 less students this year, for a total of just under 3000 students. Although we have made some progress, we are very concerned about the financial uncertainty of the State and the impact of not having a budget could play on the district for the 2016-2017 school year. The lack of a state budget could impact the flow of state funding to schools across the state. This would require school districts to operate without any state funding until a budget can be reached. Many schools will have difficulty starting school on time in August. We are reviewing current reserves to determine how long the district can sustain operations with no state funding. We want to caution you of this impact, but not cause alarm as it is early in the process. We will be communicating more about this situation as time goes on and information becomes available from the state. We regularly communicate with our legislative leaders. We, also encourage our stakeholders to become active in communicating our district needs so that our leaders are aware when decisions are being made at the state level. You can access your legislators’ contact information on our website at www.highlandcusd5. org, under the Contacts tab. Though we continue to face a daunting challenge fiscally, I am proud of our students and district as we have much to celebrate. Please join me in celebrating everything that makes our partnership with students, staff, and community exemplary. Thank you for your support, in-
April 21, 2016 volvement, and commitment to education and our students. We strive to continue listening to the community, advocating for the needs of all our students, and providing students with the tools to soar ever higher.
End of Year schedule
The end of year schedule was approved at the March 29, board meeting as follows: Highland High School Graduation – Sunday, May 22, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. Teacher Institute – NO SCHOOL Thursday, May 19, 2016 Last Day of School – Friday, May 20, 2016
2016-2017 School Calendar
The 2016-2017 School Calendar was approved at the Monday, February 22 board meeting. The approved calendar is included in this issue of Know Your Schools and is also posted on the district’s website. Each school year the district builds seven snow days into the school calendar. If the district uses more than 7 snow days next year, we will make them up on President’s Day (February 20, 2017) and the Monday after Easter (April 17 , 2017).
School/Athletic Fees
The school and athletic fees for the 2016-2017 school year will remain the same as the 2015-2016 school year with the exception of the grade 6 band fee. This fee was adjusted to $50 from $135. We will continue to use online registration for the 2016-2017 school year through which all fees can be paid. Information regarding the window for registration is included in this issue of Know Your Schools.
Remember to Register Your Child for Kindergarten! If you have a child who will be turning five on or before September 1, he or she is eligible to enroll in kindergarten in the fall of 2016. To register a student for kindergarten at:
Alhambra Primary - Call 488-2200 Highland Primary - Call 654-2107
In order for your child to attend Kindergarten Visitation on Friday, May 6, he or she must be pre-registered. Call your school today!
Highland Primary’s New Behavior System
By Michelle Ficker This year Highland Primary piloted a school-wide behavior program to provide consistency for all students and teachers. Our school improvement committee reviewed many behavior management systems and recommended a new system for our school to promote positive student behavior. This colorful clip chart hangs in each classroom. Every student has a clip that starts on green each day. Clips can be “clipped up” or “clipped down” throughout the day based on the child’s behavior in all school settings: classroom, hallway, recess, special classes, cafeteria, etc. The clip chart is a tool that rewards students for positive behavior while discouraging negative behaviors. Students are actively monitoring their own behaviors and are rewarded for good behavior daily. Our committee is monitoring students who end up on the red “parent contact” point and those who end up on the pink “super student” point each month. The “Super Students” are recognized monthly. This system provides a positive way for students to monitor their choices and gives them behavior goals to reach.
This year the following students will be competing in the IJHSAA State Bowling Tournament. From left to right Front Row: Carissa M. and Sage T. grade 6, Kayla R. and Molly M. Grade 8. Back Row: Austin D. Grade 8, Hunter H., Blayne K., and Logan O. Grade 6.
Intarmural Bowling and State Tournament
By Michele Heinz The wonderful world of Intramurals! Intramurals or IM’s are a great way for HMS students to try something new for very little cost and minimal commitment. Most IM’s are just for fun, but the HMS IM Bowling Team has taken this opportunity very seriously! Eight students competed in the IJHSAA State Bowling tournament in Fairview Heights, on Saturday, March 18, 2016. Although I have served as the Bowling Intramural coach for three years, most of the students on my team are better bowlers than I am! As a Business and Technology teacher at Highland High School my claim to fame is this – I run a mean Excel Spreadsheet, and I can drive the white activity bus! Every year the best four male bowlers and the best four female bowlers attend the state tournament. The state bowlers, wondrous kids, are kind enough to let me hang out with them. In fact, this group of families have taught me how bowling tournaments work and interesting tidbits like why some bowling fans bring step ladders to tournaments. If you don’t know why people bring ladders, here it is! Bowling fans can stand on short step ladders to see over other spectators during the tournament. It is a bit of genius, I believe!!
Alhambra and Highland Primary Kindergarten Visitation
Kindergarten Visitation has been set for Friday, May 6, at Highland and Alhambra Primary schools. Visitation times will be from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m. While the boys and girls visit the kindergarten classrooms, the building principal will have the opportunity to go over the handbook with parents and answer questions. Parents will receive a letter explaining the visitation. When the children come for their visit, the parents should bring proof of residency and a copy of the child’s certified birth certificate from the county clerk, not a hospital copy. This is a State requirement. State law also requires every kindergarten student to have a health examination and up-to-date immunizations. This should be completed before the first day of school. Dental and vision exams are also required. If you have not yet registered your son or daughter, please call the office of the school your child will attend: Alhambra Primary at 488-2200, or Highland Primary at 6542107 as soon as possible. We are looking forward to meeting you and your kindergartner!
Dr. Seuss in the Classroom By Kristin Potthast
Highland Primary celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday on March 2. The students were able to participate in various classroom activities including sampling green eggs and ham, making Dr. Seuss hats, graphing our favorite Dr. Seuss story, writing with rhyming words, creating stories with our favorite Dr. Seuss characters, exploring www.seussville.com, and of course reading many Dr. Seuss stories. The children enjoyed celebrating this fun day!
Dr. Seuss Reading Night By Kristin Potthast
The more that you read, The more things you will know. The more that you learn, The more places you’ll go. Dr. Seuss The reading began one evening in March. Highland Primary was the place... the place to get smart. There was reading, music, and selfies with Seuss, a book walk, book fair, and even some art. Thursday, March 10 was the night it took place, Dr. Seuss was the theme for this reading event. Kindergarten and first grade students along with their folks, were filled with smiles for an evening well spent. So remember the words of beloved Dr. Seuss… You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild To pick up a book and read to a child!
Hop on Pop
Songs with Suess
Highland Primary Students Vote for Their Favorite Book
By Nancy Genteman The Academy Awards may grab the spotlight for the best movies, but the Monarch Award books are grabbing the attention of students. Since 2003, the Illinois School Library Media Association and member librarians have recommended a list of 20 books for the Monarch Award, which encompasses grades K-3. The Monarch symbol was chosen because of its familiarity to K-3 children and to symbolize the growth, change, and freedom that becoming a reader brings. It is also designed to encourage children to read critically and become familiar with children’s books, authors, and illustrators. Students must read at least
Highland’s Top Pick
three of the 20 books in order to vote for their favorite book. Voting is done in February and the results for the district and the state are posted. The top pick for Highland students was The Watermelon Seed by Greg Pizzoli. The Pizzoli’s book introduces the reader to a funny crocodile who has a big fear of swallowing a watermelon seed. The reader is invited to read along and find out what will happen. Will vines sprout out of his ears? Will his skin turn pink? The announcement for the State of Illinois’ Monarch Award choice was held by webinar on Friday, March 18, 2016. There were 192 schools who voted and 104,829 votes were cast. The top pick for the state
State of Illinois Students Top Pick
Optimist Oratorical Contest By Dawn Bruno Eleven Highland Middle School students competed in the Optimist Oratorical Contest Thursday, March 3 at 7:00 p.m. in the HMS plaza. Contestants wrote their own original speech on the topic of “How My Best Brings Out the Best in Others.” Optimist member, Kevin Hemann, emceed the annual event. Winners for the 2016 contest are as follows: Girls’ Division, first place - Grace M., second place - Corinne K., third place - Hannah G. Boys’ Division, first place - Adam K., second place - Eli J., third place - Josh L. Other contestants included: Abby B., Chloe M., Madi R., Julia L., and Reagan C. Congratulations to all of our young, talented writers, and public speakers. Thank you to all who supportedthese students in their efforts.
was, Breaking News: Bear Alert by David Biedrzycki with 15,472 votes. The Biedrzycki’s characters are two bears who awaken from hibernation and go to town—literally. During their visit, they eat at a diner, dress up at a department store, and stop a couple of bank robbers, all the while mistaking the townspeople’s terror for friendliness. In the end, the bears become heroes. It is a wonderful read, full of colorful illustrations.
Medical Occupations Intramural
By Monica Martin HighlandMiddle School is having an exciting year in Medical Occupations. There are currently seven students participating this year. There are speakers from various occupations in the medical and health related fields that come and speak to the students. So far we have had Cindy Hartman, a registered dietician from St. Joseph’s Hospital. Her presentation was on how to read food labels and calculate BMI (body mass index). She talked to us about how our body’s needs change as we grow and get older. Also, Dr. David Thayer, a chiropractor from Integrated Medical Group, talked to us about our spine and how when things are aligned properly we can experience different health conditions. He also talked about acupuncture and acupressure. He brought each student an acupuncture needle and acupressure beads. He brought a model of the spine for us to see and touch. Nancy Taylor WHNP and Nancy Renschen RN from Southern OB/GYN Associates met with the students. They talked to the them about the different types of nursing options, specializing in Women’s health as well as working in non-nursing areas as a Registered Nurse like Nancy Renschen does as the job of Practice Administrator. The students were taught basic first aid for cuts, burns, and food allergies and practiced using an Epi-Pen. The students are scheduled to tour the Outpatient Rehab Department at St. Joseph’s Hospital and learn CPR. Someone from the laboratory will present and teach them to perform a urine dipstick test to check for UTI’s and see if the students are able to diagnose a patient based on laboratory information. We also have a new presentation this year, Bob Nave and Harry Painter will talk to the students about pharmacy and starting a business.
Girls on the Run By Susie Brauns Girls on the Run, a fantastic international program that highlights girls, is in its eighth season at Highland Elementary. Four teams are comprised of 60 girls ranging from grades 3-5. This program has more than just the goal of training the girls to run a 5K race. The curriculum covers topics of making good choices, selecting healthy relationships, self-awareness, and celebrating and sharing strengths. The results are a better self-esteem, making new friends, and the accomplishment of completing a 5K race in St. Louis. Practices are held after school twice each week and involve a lesson and physical activity. A practice 5K is held two weeks prior to the final race in St. Louis. The practice race is held at Highland Elementary during one of the last practices. This event
gives the girls a feel for how a real race would be, which includes practicing proper race etiquette, using a water station, and running with a buddy. This will be on Tuesday, May 3, at 3:45 p.m. Families, friends, and community members are invited to cheer the girls on!
A service project will also be completed by the girls during the season. The project details are yet to be determined. The final 5K will be on Saturday, May 7 in downtown St. Louis. Our girls will join thousands of others from the area in Missouri and Illinois to culminate their training season.
End of Year Dates to Remember
Monday, April 25, 2016 Monday, April 27, 2016 Thursday, April 28, 2016 Saturday, April 30, 2016 Thursday, May 5, 2016 Friday, May 6, 2016 Monday, May 9, 2016 Tuesday, May 10, 2016 Tuesday, May 12, 2016 Monday, May 16, 2016 Monday, May 16, 2016 Wednesday, May 18, 2016 Thursday, May 19,2016 Friday, May 20, 2016 Sunday, May 22, 2016 Monday, May 23, 2016
School Board Meeting (Admin. Center) 6:30 p.m. Grade 3 HE Spring Concert (HE Aud.) 7:00 p.m. Board Meeting (Admin. Center) 6:30 p.m. Grade 4 HE Spring Concert (HE Aud.) 7:00 p.m. Junior-Senior Prom Teacher Workday/Half-Day Dismissal Kindergarten Visitation HMS Awards Night (HE Aud.) 7:00 p.m. Grades 5-8 Band Concert (HMS) 7:00 p.m. HMS Spring Choral Concert (HMS Gym) 7:00 p.m. HM Band and Chorus Tour of the Centers HHS Honors Convocation (HHS) 6:30 p.m. Baccalaureate at St Paul Catholic Church NO SCHOOL (Teacher Institute) Last Day of School/Early P.M. Dismissal HHS Graduation @ (HHS Gym) 2:00 p.m. Board Meeting (Admin. Center) 6:30 p.m.
Highland Primary McTeacher Night By Susan Mortland
Highland Primary hosted a McTeacher Night on March 1. The students enjoyed seeing the teachers walking around selling cookies and yogurt. It was a fun night for parents, students, and teachers to socialize together. Highland Primary receives a percentage of the profits from that night. The money goes directly to each teacher who particpated that evening for purchasing items for the classroom. There were many parents and students that came to enjoy this fun event.
Recorder Season By John Case and Hope Waters A few weeks ago, our fourth grade students began a new exploration in making music, and they are rocking-and-a-rolling. With a few squeaks here and there, the grade 4 students have begun playing recorders. The excitement of getting their very own instrument has the kids working hard to make music together. In class, they are taught a few familiar songs using newly learned notes and rhythms on the instrument. Making sure they remember to keep their left hand on top and which fingers to use was difficult for some at first, but a few reminders here and there helped to keep
the students on track. The students are also given tips on how to use their air to create the right sound and avoid squeaking. After playing through a song, I’ll say “fix what you need to fix” or “make it better,” giving them a few seconds to practice on their own. After that quick practice session, I’ll count off to play the song again and the improvement is immediate. Problem solving and performance analysis are a huge part of learning to play recorders. In our class, one incentive we use to motivate students is something we call “Recorder Karate.” As students improve and
learn new songs, they earn different colored “belts” which they can put around their recorders. So far all the classes have earned their first two belts, white and yellow. As we continue to earn more belts, students will be challenged to learn more notes and harder rhythms; however, these students are up for a good challenge. The students are doing well and having fun. They enjoy music more knowing they are really the ones creating it. We still have a few more weeks of playing recorders and they are improving every day. The fun is just beginning!
Washington, DC Trip Now in Third Decade at Highland Middle School By Chris Hartlieb Now in its third decade of existence, the annual eighth grade trip to Washington DC is more popular than ever. Since 1991 HMS students have been afforded the opportunity to travel to our nation’s capitol, and the number of trip participants has grown steadily over that time. The trip’s founder, Doug Bradley, began by taking four students in March of 1991, they traveled to the airport in his Oldsmobile. Current trip director Chris Hartlieb, eighth grade American history teacher at HMS, will take his 22 DC trip in October of 2016, and he will be leaving HMS on three charter buses loaded with eighth grade students, teachers, and parents. As of the publication of this article, there are 134 participants registered to travel in the fall with the company that handles all of the scheduling, Worldstrides. Once known as Lakeland Tours, the company has handled trips for HMS from the outset. A major change in the trip took place last fall, when the group traveled in October for the first time. Traditionally the trip has been held over Casimir Pulaski weekend, which falls on the first Monday of March. Over the years weather concerns continued to plague
planning, and Hartlieb finally made the move to travel in October last year. Warmer temperatures, less weather concerns, and crowds that were no larger than the earlier spring trips were the major reasons for the switch. Last year’s trip didn’t disappoint in any of those regards. Regardless of the time of year the general tenor of the trip remains the same. Students continue to experience our nation’s capitol city and its many attractions just as they had in the past. The trip includes visits to the U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress, Supreme Court, White House picture stops, Ford’s Theater, the National Archives, and different museums of the Smithsonian Complex. In addition, students visit the home of George Washington, Mt. Vernon, and its interpretive center as well as getting a look at Old Town Alexandria, where Washington went through the paces of everyday life. Washington DC’s many memorials are prominently featured as well: the Lincoln, Jefferson, Korean War, Vietnam Veteran’s, World War II, Franklin Roosevelt, Martin Luther King, and Marine Corp Memorials are all trip stops. Students also, experience Arlington National Cemetery, which includes the Kennedy gravesites,
Tombs of the Unknowns, and the Changing of the Guard. Among the most popular stops on the trip are the National Cathedral and the Holocaust Museum. Past trips have also featured a stop at the National Zoo to view the pandas and a trip down Embassy Row. While each trip takes on its own life, the goal is always to see as much as possible. Students that pay to travel ride on charter buses to and from the airport and throughout their trip. The group generally flies into Reagan National Airport or Baltimore-Washington International Airport via St. Louis Lambert Field. Accommodations the past several years have been housed in a Westin Hotel that is a short drive from downtown. All meals, housing and tour costs are included in the cost of the trip. If you are interested in sending your child on the Washington DC trip, be on the lookout for information in the HMS announcements or look for an informational packet that will come home with interested seventh grade students, most likely in November. Should you have questions you may contact Mr. Hartlieb at school via email (chartlie@highlandcusd5. org) or phone 651-8800, ext. 3219.
Fun and Fitness Camp
By Cindy Tolbert Alhambra Primary students had an opportunity to attend a Fun and Fitness Camp after school the week of March 7. Students learned fun new games and activities that help promote fitness. A healthy snack was also enjoyed each day. The instructors were Mrs. Grotefendt and Mrs. Keeney.
Highland District Nurses Attend Community Emergency Response Training
By Monica Martin From January 21-March 10, 2016, the district nurses attended the Madison County CERT training class on Thursday evenings from 7:00-10:00 p.m. The nurses learned how to use a fire extinguisher to put out a real fire! They were taught the procedure for Search and Rescue, how to triage and treat injuries, how to shut off utilities, and what things we need to have ready at home, work, and in our vehicles. The biggest thing they learned was The Golden Rule: Keep yourself safe and don’t become a victim during a disaster. Do the greatest good for the greatest number of people!
Students are playing the game “Spud” and waiting for the ball to drop.
Dental Health Month
By Nichole Zuccarelli Students in PreK learn about a wide variety of topics, such as weather, transportation, and farm animals, just to name a few. Kiddos show so much excitement and interest in the various themes, especially when they get to have unique experiences relating to what we are learning about. February was Dental Hygiene Month, and our class did a unit on dental health. By reading books, singing songs, and completing other activities, students learned about foods that are good and bad for your teeth, vocabulary related to dental hygiene, how to take care of your teeth and mouth, and what happens when you go to the dentist. We wrapped up our week with a presentation from Dr. Roy Reinarman of Plaza Dental. Dr.
Reinarman and his wife, Melissa, came and spoke to both of my classes, as well as Mrs. Carman’s PreK class. He showed the students a fun tooth video and also shared a presentation targeting children
of the preschool age. Dr. Reinarman also showed pictures of the inside of his office and what it looks like to sit in the chair and get a dental exam. In addition to the wonderful presentation, Dr. Reinarman and his wife graciously provided goody bags for each student consisting of a toothbrush, sand timer, floss, and other neat items. The students were very engaged and enjoyed learning more about taking care of their teeth. Not only was this a great way to wrap up our unit on dental health, but hopefully will also make dental visits less nerve-wracking for these kiddos as they continue on their dental health journey. Thanks so much to Plaza Dental and Dr. Reinarman for the time, effort, and compassion toward the students!
Highland Middle School Renaissance
By Susan Coode Students in Grade 6 at Highland Middle School had the opportunity to witness a demonstration on the Middle Ages/Renaissance by a local group called the SCA. The Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. is a national organization with members all over the country. They research and re-enact the arts, crafts, philosophies, and sciences of this time period. Colorful costumes and fighting demonstrations, as well as music and dancing helped the students see and understand the lifestyle and customs of the historical period they just studied. They got to see the types of armor worn by knights, and view examples of calligraphy, illumination, and heraldry. These presenters are part of the Metro-East chapter of the SCA called the Barony of Shattered Crystal.
M e d i e v a l
S w o r d F i g h t
Tri-MUN Conference Triad Invitational Middle School Model United Nations By Heather Athmer Thirty-nine well-prepared and nervous Model UN students left HMS February 18 and 19 to participate in the XXIV Tri-MUN Conference held at Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville. The TriMUN conference is designed to introduce middle school students to the procedures of high school Model UN Conferences. Eight middle schools from Madison and St. Clair counties participated. Triad High School students organized the event for the estimated 130 middle school students who participated. Model United Nations, also known as Model UN or MUN, is an extra-curricular activity in which students role-play as delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees. Students pick committees they find interesting and then research the way their assigned country would respond to the issue. The key to Model UN is taking on the role and viewpoint of the country you represent. Since early September Highland students have been researching their countries and these very complex world issues. Each
student wrote a resolution they submitted to the Tri-MUN Conference. This resolution acknowledged the problem and gave a suggestion for how to solve it. Thanks to the Highland High School Model UN Team, HMS students were assisted, guided, and taught the format for writing a resolution, as well as the rules of debate. After all resolutions were collected, each student received a packet of all the resolutions in their committees, reviewed them, studied them, and noted where they wanted to make a point from their country’s perspective. At the conference, the students had to follow a set of rules of debate that created a very well organized, and many times entertaining debate over what resolution addressed the issue the best. When debating, students were required to stay in “country or character” and respond the way their country would most likely respond to the issue at a true United Nations Summit. The goal was for the committee to finally work together through debate to pass one of those resolutions. Highland Middle School represented our district very well. Of the 39 students,
only a handful had any prior conference experience, yet we left the conference with 14 awards! Honorable Mention Resolution awards were given to Vivienne C., Jori H., Jackson M., Lydia M., Nora T., and Gurman T. The Superior Resolution winner was Lia B. Reagan C., Brianna H., Eli J., Jonny S., and Caleb S., were awarded Honorable Mention Delegate. Tristan M. came home with a Superior Resolution and an Outstanding Delegate Award! An Honorable Mention Delegation Award was presented to the HMS China Delegation! I am so proud of both the high school and middle school Model UN programs! Watching the students from the high school program use their expertise to support and encourage middle school participants, was a constant reminder of the exceptional students and future citizens Highland schools is helping shape. A high school student giving of his or her time and energy because they love a program and believe in the importance of seeing it not only continue, but also flourish, was a fine example of “Doing What’s Best for Kids.”
Grade 2 Family Math Night
By Sheila Laird Family Math Night was filled with fun and learning for mathematicians of all ages. On April 7, 2016, Highland Primary second grade students and their families enjoyed an engaging and positive learning time by completing a variety of hands-on math activities. Families were able to make a
take-home game to practice addition and subtraction skills and also tried out math apps to use at home. In addition, students practiced measuring, counting money, estimating, and telling time. The families also collaborated together to complete a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) project. Hexagons made by
each family were put together to form a honeycomb, which will be displayed in the second grade annex. This project will add to what students learn about bees and their importance to pollination in science. The best part of the evening was seeing families enjoy quality one-on-one time together.
ReadQuest 2016 By Carrie Alexander
On Friday, February 26 the fourth grade students at Highland Elementary participated in ReadQuest 2016. This nationwide all day reading program is put on each year by Accelerated Reader. Students are encouraged to read as many books as they can and take AR quizzes. Each classroom set a class goal and many individual students created their own personal goal as well. To break up the day, students read with partners, had read aloud from their teacher, guest readers, and read in new places. The AR website had a running count of the quizzes taken that day and it was fun to check in and see how many more quizzes had been added. Students came to school in pajamas, brought blankets, and their favorite books from home. Nationwide, over 3,000,000 quizzes were taken from coast to coast!
Mrs. Alexander’s class with guest reader Mrs. Brauns.
Roller Skating at Highland Elementary
By Jody Durbin and Barry Wittler Students at Highland Elementary participated in roller-skating during Physical Education classes in February. Students learned basic safety techniques while playing a variety of games. They also, enjoyed the experience and greatly improved throughout the skating unit. Many students hadn’t ever skated before, and we hope to make it a yearly tradition at Highland Elementary.
Pictured above: Mrs. Alexander’s class with guest readers Mrs. Miscik. Picture to the right: Haley and Maddie enjoyed some extra skating during a free recess awarded to their class.
Highland High School Winter Sports: Post Season
By Caitlin, Grade 10 This winter has been very successful and will continue to be for the Bulldogs. Having six sports in the winter, Highland has many opportunities to show people what they have. The dance team finished Coach Deets’ career on a high note. They entered the final competitions with confidence. Highland’s dance team has always had a good reputation, and they can be seen as “the team to beat” by other dance teams. The girls came out with the 1A, IHSA state championship. The seniors this year are leaving behind a good group of juniors, sophomores, and freshman to continue the team’s reputation. The cheerleading team’s season ended up similar to last year’s end. This year, they had three seniors who were on varsity all four years, and they wanted to see the team do well in their last year of competition. They also had a lot more difficulty level in their tumbling and stunts throughout their routines. Their coaches were confident in them and saw the potential that the team had. They came up short at the IHSA finals again this year. The wrestling team did well as a whole, and certain individuals had success as well. They placed higher in conference than last year and they also had more people advance to the sectionals. They also had two people advance to state. Their coaches made sure they were well prepared and made sure the team stayed in good shape. Trent R. placed 3rd at state and Jacob also qualified for state. The bowling team had a successful season as well. They placed higher at regionals and everyone’s averages went up. Bowling is a statistical game and Coach Wander was well prepared and prepared her team. She had faith in her team. All grade levels were there to contribute to the team and its accomplishments. The girls basketball team had success in their post season. They won their regional, sectional, super sectional, and continued to the state finals. They went into the first game but came up short in double overtime. They ended up getting third in the state tournament after winning their second game. The girls were confident going in. The seniors wanted to be successful this year after coming up short the last few years. This was the Lady Bulldogs first state tournament
appearance. The boys team won their first regional game against Jerseryville. They played Althoff in the regional championship and after defeating Althoff earlier in their season, Althoff showed up with their 5 starters who had been out for football when the Bulldogs last defeated them. Although they lost, Althoff is a nationally ranked team and went on to win the sectional.
Becoming a Freshman
By Kayla, Grade 10 Freshman year is the first chapter in a confusing yet exciting four chapter book. This chapter sets the tone for the rest of the high school story. On every page there is something new or unexpected. High school is an exciting time, but it can also be quite scary for the incoming freshmen. Sixty percent of the students surveyed said they don’t feel prepared for high school. Bree, an eighth grader, said, “I don’t feel prepared for high school because I feel as though we will have a lot more homework and the teachers will be more strict.” The other forty percent, who said they do feel prepared for their first year of high school, mentioned it was mainly due to their high school siblings or friends that they had talked to. For example, Lily, who is also in eighth grade said, “I feel prepared because of my older friends who have talked to me and helped me understand the difficulties of high school.” Advice from older students, who are already in high school, helps students know what to expect. As an incoming freshman, there are many things to worry about that weren’t issues in any previous schools, such as the higher expectations. Brooke, a freshman, said “In eighth grade, teachers try to plan according to other teacher’s schedules, so they don’t give you a ton of homework at one time, but in high school, that’s not the case. Some nights you can have three or more subjects for homework, and it wasn’t like that in middle school.” At Highland Middle School, the grades are divided into teams and each team has a certain set of teachers that only teach their half of the students. In these teams, the teachers work together to coordinate their schedules and make sure their students won’t be overwhelmed. In high school, teachers will assign a large homework assignment or test, regardless if the other teachers are doing the same. Therefore, students may have an excessive amount of homework
one night and none another night. Although at first there are many things ninth grade students have to get used to, most high school students said they enjoyed their freshman year. Most importantly, becoming a freshman can be exciting and is a great time for maturing. Brylee, an eighth grade student said, “I’m excited to be a freshman next year just because it’s a different atmosphere. I think I will feel a little less like a kid because it’s the beginning of a road where I’ll be treated more like an adult.” Although middle schoolers may experience anxiety about transitioning to HHS, it is still a fun and interesting chapter in the high school experience.
The FFA in the HHS
By Kylee, Grade 10 FFA - Future Farmers of America organization - is dedicated to educating high school students about agriculture throughout the nation. Students engaged in Highland’s FFA can participate in CDE’s, or Career Development Events, Relay for Life, and many volunteer opportunities. They also hold an annual auction and an annual banquet at the end of the school year. This extracurricular activity is very important to the student body and to the community because agriculture surrounds Highland and creates a living for many of its residents. CDE competitions are held throughout the school year. They are meant to further develop the skills and knowledge of the student’s topic. The students can participate in any of the given twenty-four topics from job interview to horticulture. These contests are held in various schools within the sectioned off groupings, for example: Highland is in section fifteen. If a contestant wins a CDE, they are awarded a ribbon for their victory. On Thursday, March 10, the Highland FFA Auction hosted an annual fundraiser for the chapter. How it works is that members of FFA donate four hours of their time to the chapter, and then they auction off their donated time. Along with a free chili dinner, the guests have the opportunity to bid, and potentially buy, any student. The prices range from $45-$210 an hour! For example, Alison D., an officer for the chapter, was sold for $150 an hour to her family. She can be put to work around the house, babysitting, or even shopping. The “sold” students do your bidding, pun intended.
Highland High School (cont’d) To end the year, the chapter hosts an annual banquet in honor of their accomplishments throughout the school year. Members and their families enjoy a dinner and a presentation of the new officers, achievements of individuals, and a featuring of their seniors. This special occasion is equivalent to a sport’s senior night. It gives a chance for the families of the members to see their growth as a student, and as a person. This year’s banquet was held Thursday, April 7. Finally, light shed must be shed on the importance of the FFA in Highland. There are many families associated with farming. Rinderer Farms is an example. Agriculture is embedded into this rural city, and with the looming budget cuts set by the state government the threat of losing this key component in the community is real. This organization not only teaches students of agriculture, of their city’s economy, but it also helps bring students together. The Highland FFA Chapter is an incredibly important opportunity for HHS students. The students can’t lose this opportunity for their future, and the city of Highland needs to protect this program. The Highland FFA is a stunning organization that gives students opportunities to learn, come together, and grow as individuals. In order to protect the agricultural students’ future, we must protect this program.
Tablets Should Replace Textbooks
By Mackenzie, Grade 10 In the age of modern technology, 77% of teachers who use tablet computers in their class say students are more motivated to learn when using a tablet computer than students learning from a book according to PBS (procon. org). From kindergarteners to high school seniors, students use technology throughout their day. Students would be willing to work on tablets more than books because it offers a creative alternative for boring books. With a tablet computer, such as an Apple iPad, students would have access to read their textbooks, take their own notes, create presentations ,and videos along with a long list of other things all at their fingertips. Students would be able to receive and submit their assignments online while having personal creativity. The use of tablet computers would replace expensive, heavy paper
t e x t b o o k s . P r o C o n . o rg s t a t e d t h a t “According to a 2012 report from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)… E-textbooks can save schools between $250-$1,000 per student per year. Tablet prices also continue to drop, making them increasingly affordable” (procon.org). The cost of an iPad would be a one time price with updated knowledge from reliable internet sources and online textbooks, updating knowledge onto paper, schools have to buy new and expensive textbooks. At many high schools, textbooks are over ten years old. The books are in bad condition with outdated information. There have been updates in science, history, and even math since these editions of textbooks have been released and students don’t have access to this knowledge. The use of tablets would save the students and teachers money with the school supplies that wouldn’t be used as often, if at all. Paper and writing utensils wouldn’t be necessary because you could type and highlight on the tablet. Students wouldn’t have to purchase book bags because the only thing they would carry would be the tablet. This would also benefit those students who carry all their books and supplies with them all the time. Many schools have come in conflict with cell phones and the way they are misused. Students often use their phones for the internet to do research, as a daily planner for assignments, or to check the time, etc. With tablet computers all these problems would be solved. Students would have access to the internet, schedules, and they would be able to communicate with teachers when they aren’t in the same classroom. Mrs. Beyer, a teacher at HHS stated that the use of tablets would benefit both the students and teachers. Communication between the teacher and student could happen outside of class, so when a student has a question at home they can ask and get help. In addition, notes, homework, projects, and in-class activities could be uploaded online saving paper, money, and time. Mrs. Beyer was able to use tablets at the school she previously taught at and said her students were able to learn, and enjoyed the tablets. The expense of paper and books was greatly reduced. Overall, the tablets were a great upgrade to the school.
Senioritis and Post-High School Plans
By Mallory, Grade 10 As fourth quarter begins, students across the high school are realizing that the school year is beginning to draw to a close. The weather is slowly becoming more pleasant, end-of-the-year events are starting up, and the thought of summer is creeping into the back of many students’ minds again-especially seniors. As it does every year, Senioritis is starting to make an appearance in the graduating class. Senioritis occurs in many seniors when they realize that in a few short months, they will have graduated high school and finished four of the hardest (but best) years of their life so far. Although normally not a very serious matter, Senioritis can have a negative effect on a student’s life after school. Some “symptoms” of Senioritis include a loss of interest in classes, tardiness, and the repeated phrase, “but it’s my senior year.” This mindset, normally taken lightly, can sometimes impact seniors’ futures. They may begin to lose focus on their present academics once they have been guaranteed graduation, sometimes causing grades to drop substantially. Senior year is supposed to be a great year, and students should really allow themselves a lot of fun, but completely losing focus on schoolwork may negatively affect their performance, making it more difficult to be accepted into a college. The school year is nearly over, so just stay on task for one more month, seniors, and high school will be behind you. One way for seniors to avoid Senioritis is to keep the mindset that even if high school life is drawing to a close, their current efforts will affect their college life, hopefully making it the best possible. With college coming up in less than five months now, planning is really starting to become a priority for many seniors. There are over 4,000 colleges across the United States, so seniors have an enormous decision to make. Do they want to travel far away for college, or stay close to home? Do they prefer a lot of students at a large college or a more personal experience with fewer students at a smaller one? Do they want their education to be rigorous or more laid back? All of these questions have an enormous impact on the seniors’ lives, and will need tobe answered to select a college. Hopefully seniors will make a good decision and have a great next few years of life. But, for now, stay focused on the present and enjoy the last month of the high school experience.
Highland High School (cont’d) Spring Sports
(Mallory R.) from last year. We hope to see great things from this year’s team. By Kirsten, Grade 10 Baseball- When interviewing Trent C., With winter sports ending, spring sports one of 16 returning seniors, the excitement have started at HHS. We have many talented for this year’s season was obvious. When athletes, that impress coaches and spectators I asked what he was looking forward to daily. You can expect to hear many good most this season, Trent said, “I am looking things about this year’s spring sports teams. forward to playing my last year of high Girls Track- Sydney N. is a junior at school baseball with all my fellow seniors HHS returning for her third year of girls and hopefully winning another state title.” track. When I asked Sydney what her Trent explained, he sees a lot of potential expectations were for this year’s team, she in this year’s team, and has confidence that said, “ I hope that we will improve our times whoever is out on the field can get the job and advance further than last year.” Sydney done. also explained that she enjoys running with Boys baseball coach Sam Weber has all of the great people on the team, and sees lots of confidence in this year’s team. “I potential for many post season appearances. am very confident that we have a chance The team recently participated in an indoor to make another long playoff run this year meet at Principia, which showed much in the playoffs. We have a great collection promise for this year’s success. of young men that are willing to put in a Boys Track-Sam T. is returning for great amount of effort for another great his last year of track at HHS. I asked Sam season.” The boys have prepared for this about the potential of this year’s team he year’s season by getting stronger in the responded, “Our team has good potential weight room. Also, as Weber said, “working and has depth in places we didn’t last year, weekly on their mechanics to get themselves and some lower classmen will have to step prepared for this season.” Along with the up to make our team successful.” Sam also many preparations for this season, Weber explained how they have also had a recent and the boys are excited to see what this meet at Principia, where they showed lots of year’s season brings. capability for success this season. I also spoke to Coach Vance, who Boys Tennis Brett B., the lone senior of this year’s explained how excited he is for this season. boys tennis team, has high expectations Coach Vance said, “I get great satisfaction for this season. “My expectations are to seeing other athletes improve from year to qualify for the state tournament again year. The team has a lot of quality athletes this year and just win as many games that can do some pretty special things.” He as possible.” Brett also explained how also told me how much potential this year’s he has been training for endurance and team has and how they are very capable if power over the off-season. We hope to they stay on their mental game. HHS hopes see great things from Brett and the rest to see great things from boys and girls track of the boys tennis team. Matt Pellock, this year. Softball- Lauren W., the only senior on the girls and boys tennis coach, has a this year’s team, is returning for her final lot planned for this year’s season. From season at HHS. She recently signed to play ordering new tennis balls to making softball at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy sure the schedule is set, Matt is worked in the fall. When I asked her about how hard to prepare for this season of boys she feels returning for her final season as tennis. Matt said to achieve success this the only senior, she replied, “I have mixed year he plans on, “setting goals for the emotions. I’m sad to be leaving the team maily second year players not by wins after this year, but I am excited to continue and losses, but by improving skills... We on my softball career in college.” Lauren will be focusing on supporting Brett his also commented on what it means to the senior year, and then on the rest of the rest of the team only having one senior, “I guys making big strides in their tennis feel that it is tough having only one senior. abilities for future success.” Many athletes participate in spring First of all it is a lot of pressure on me. This sports here at HHS, so we hope to see also means that we will lack maturity and many fans and supporters at this year’s leadership...which could be seen in how we games. A huge good luck to all of our handle difficult situations.” Although Lauren spring teams! Go Bulldogs! being the only senior, the team shows a lot of promise with only losing one senior
Texting and Driving
By Rece, Grade 10 Texting and driving appears to be an unsolved problem. Unfortunately, a recent study revealed that an accident is 23 times more probable to occur if the driver is texting (as cited in TextingandDrivingSafety). When surveyed, 82% of sixteen and seventeen year old teenagers claimed to own a phone, and 52% of those people admitted to texting and driving (as cited in TextingandDrivingSafety). Most teenagers who text and drive state that it is easy for them. Mrs. Basden, a chemistry teacher, said, “The students think they’re invincible. Each one has the mindset that it won’t happen to them.” She refuses to text and drive because she knows it would set a bad example for her kids. Not all parents think like this though. Another survey revealed that “48% of young drivers have seen their parents drive while talking on a cell phone” (as cited in TextingandDrivingSafety). Parents are the role models for their children, and when kids see that their parents are not punished for using a phone while driving, they begin to believe that it is okay to do the same. Lauren, a sophomore, gave an idea in order to prevent texting while driving. She stated, “Drivers Education teachers should find an empty parking lot, give the student driver a phone, and prove to them how difficult texting and driving is.” This would even be with no cars around in an open space. While texting and driving, 10% of the time is spent outside of the lane (as cited in TextingandDrivingSafety). Once questioned with “Why do teens text and drive,” Mrs. Twyford answered, “The brain is not fully developed, and the generation we live in believes it is okay.” A few people even admitted to texting and driving when questioned. Some say all they do is check their phone but do not respond. Elliott, a sophomore who got his license in October, stated, “When I am in the car with someone who is texting and driving it gives me anxiety. Since I have had my license, I do not text and drive often.” People complain about texting and driving, but the situation is still a problem. When it comes down to it, everybody is responsible for the consequences. A sad truth is that “texting and driving causes 1,600,000 accidents per year (as cited in TextingandDrivingSafety). Lives need to be taken more seriously. From adults down to new drivers, texting and driving prove to be an issue.
Prom and Preparation in Highland
By Whitney, Grade 10 Prom is around the corner in Highland, bringing much excitement to the junior and senior classes. Along with the junior and seniors some lucky underclassmen get to attend the Highland prom as well. The theme, chosen by the class officers, is masquerade for this year’s prom. Prom will be held April 30, but the preparation for this exciting event has already begun. Prom is an exciting time for all during their high school career. Some look forward to the hair and makeup, dresses, shoes, music, dancing, or even just the fun they have with friends. Katie, a senior, tells what she looks forward to the most about prom this year: “I am looking forward to arriving in a unique dress and showing off my dance moves.” After finding just the right dress, the girls must find the perfect shoes to match. After
this hair and makeup become another big choice. When asked what she looked forward to most about prom, Sarah Beth replied: “I’m very excited to attend my first prom and get ready for this exciting event with all my friends!” This event brings much preparation and excitement for a magical night. There is hard work put into prom every year by teachers and prom class sponsors. Mrs. Ramsey, Mrs. Simmons, and Mrs. Twyford are sponsors who work hard to make prom a fun event for all. Along with these teachers, many help set up, organize, book the DJ, and work for hours making sure the night is perfect. Mrs. Twyford tells about post prom; “Post prom is sponsored and put on by the junior and senior parent volunteers and is completely separate from the school.” Post prom is provided to allow a safe, fun way for the juniors and seniors to have a great time following prom. The joy of prom brings bittersweet feelings to some seniors, as it is their last
prom to attend as a student at Highland High School. Katie was asked if she was sad it was her senior prom, and she replied, “No, because there will be social events in college that will be just as fun, but I will miss the high school experience very much!” For some, it is their first year attending prom, and they’re looking forward to this new and exciting event. For others, their last prom is around the corner and it brings mixed emotions to them as it is one of the final social events of their high school years. When asked on her feelings about it being her last prom, Lexy, senior, said: “I’m sad it’s the last high school dance with my class all together, but I’m looking forward to starting a new chapter of my life!” This event has so much put into it so that it can be a good time for all who attend. The students of Highland are patiently waiting for prom to arrive this year, so they can experience prom and all the entertaining things it brings along with it.
SUMMER JAVPAAK 2016 By Mecala Scholl
Join us for SUMMER JAVPAAK at Highland Middle School on June 6-10, 2016! Summer JAVPAAK is offering a week of fun-filled, action-packed, non-stop activity for grades K-9 students. The camp is divided into two groups, grades K-3 and grades 4-9. Summer JAVPAAK also provides opportunities for children to learn valuable skills and make new friends through activities that are challenging, educational, rewarding and fun. Campers will participate in sessions featuring Star Wars Jedi Training, Makey Makey Inventions, iMovie, Extreme-ball, 3D Creations, Knockerballs, Marshmallow Gun Mania, Tye Dye, Icing on the Cookie, Jumpy House Obstacle Course, Parachute, Planks, and much more. JAVPAAK 2016 also offers exciting field trips for both camps. The K-3 students will visit a local farm, go bowling, and play laser tag at Edison’s in Edwardsville. Students in grades 4-9 will go to the EDGE Laser Tag/Theatre in Belleville and the Korte Rec Center pool. The day of the Highland pool, campers will compete in a water gun war and maybe even be sprayed by the Highland Fire Department. For more information, please see the HMS website, Google JAVPAAK, Facebook JAVPAAK, or contact Mrs. Scholl at
[email protected].
Schedule Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
6/06 K-3 8:00 AM 12:00 PM
6/07 K-3 8:00 AM 12:00 PM
6/08 K-3 8:00 AM 12:00 PM
6/09 K-3 8:00 AM 12:00 PM
6/10 K-3 8:00 AM 12:00 PM
6/06 4-9 8:00 AM 12:00 PM
6/07 4-9 8:00 AM 4:00 PM
6/08 4-9 8:00 AM 12:00 PM
6/09 4-9 8:00 AM 4:00 PM
6/08 4-9 8:00 AM 12:00 PM
Registration Cost:
Grades K-3 - $105 if received by 5/20. Grades K-3 - $115 if received after 5/20 Grades 4-9 - $140 if received by 5/20. Grades 4-9 - $150 if received after 5/20
Alhambra Primary
By Cindy Tolbert Students recently participated in a “Take the Challenge - No Screens Week.” During that week, students were encouraged to play games and do other activities at home instead of spending it in front of the TV, playing video games, and using other electronic devices. Mrs. Kronk’s class was the winning class. They won a large trophy to display in their class and had the privilege of styling and coloring Principal, Cindy Tolbert’s hair.
Ag in the Classroom
By Terri Lurkins Agriculture is our nation’s largest industry; providing 23 million jobs for people in over 250 career areas. In Illinois, over 1 million jobs (13%) are agriculture related. While Highland CUSD No 5 students live in the middle of a largely agricultural area, many know little about agriculture. Did you know that insulin and many surgical supplies are a by-product of hogs and cattle, or 90% of commercially produced U.S. pumpkins are grown in Illinois, or 85% of the world’s horseradish is grown near Collinsville? Can you name Illinois’ top cash crops, our rankings in livestock production, our official state symbols, or identify the non-food items in your home that are agriculturally grown animal or plant by-products? Thanks to Chelsea Reeves, the Madison County C.A.R.E.E. Agriculture Literacy Coordinator, our district’s fourth grade students understands more about agriculture industries. Through Ag in the Classroom students participate in four agriculture related presentations. In addition to many colorful visual aids, hands-on activities, quizzes, and handouts each student receives a full-color Ag Mag during each visit. For more information about the program or to download materials, including 24 Ag Mag topics, visit https://www.agintheclass. org.
Mid America Airport By Josie Elliott
Highland Primary kindergarten students attended a field trip to Mid America Airport in Mascoutah, Illinois. The Illinois State Police was kind enough to donate their time to teach our children about the job of a police officer. The children had the opportunity to see different types of police and emergency vehicles. The children enjoyed the activities provided by a K-9 team, a SWAT team, St. Louis Metro Air Support, Arch Helicopter, and the National Guard, just to name a few. The field trip enhanced our studies of transportation and careers at Highland Primary. A special thanks to Highland PTO for providing the bus transportation for this trip.
Mid America Airport (Continued)
http://www.autism-society.org/get-involved/national-autism-awareness-month/ This is an awesome site to visit for information about Autism Awareness Month.
https://www.autismspeaks.org/liub Go to this website and pledge to light it up blue on April 2, 2016!
The eighth annual World Autism Awareness Day was April 2, 2016. Every year, autism organizations around the world celebrate the day with unique fundraising and awareness-raising events. https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/world-autism-awareness-day
National Autism Month
By Colleen Baker April has been dedicated as Autism Awareness month for almost 25 years. Autism Awareness month is a great time to “promote autism awareness, autism acceptance, and to draw attention to the tens of thousands facing an autism diagnosis each year” (from the Autism Society Website). This is a cause near to my heart, because my son, Gregory, has high functioning autism.
Greg is a super funny, smart kiddo who loves Pokemon and all things technology. He is in grade 6 in the Staunton school district. He plays the trumpet in the school band, and is a member of the fan club. He is mainstreamed nearly 100% of his day. Greg struggles, like many children with Autism, with social interactions. Check out the websites on the prvious page to learn more about what it is like to live with Autism.
Grantfork Elementary Activities By Susan Lutes and Terri Lurkins On February 10, Grantfork Elementary started a five (5) week series called Take the Challenge Take Charge – Turn Screens Off – Turn Life On. This program is designed to reduce the amount of time students and families spend using media and reduce exposure to media violence.
During the first week of PARCC testing, we challenged the students to go for one week with NO SCREENS. They turned in a no-screens log each day that was signed by a parent. This was a fierce competition between our classes. On March 17, the winner was annound and Mrs. Paur’s fifth grade class with 64%, won the huge trophy
and the opportunity to style and color Mrs. Tolbert’s hair. Besides painting your principal’s hair, what happens when you “unplug” students? It turns into a week packed with communicating with each other, enjoying board games, and having more time for fun learning.
Take the Challenge Closing Ceremony – No Screens
Grantfork Bowl AAAA Reward Party
March 15, a total of 33 students qualified for third quarter Quadruple A Club. Students earn the quarterly reward by attaining good grades, good behavior, good attendance, and accountability. Our students are fortunate to have Grantfork Bowl a block from school. They enjoyed the warm, sunny walk almost as much as the bowling. The trip also gave students a chance to practice the bowling skills taught in Mr. Wittler’s P.E. classes.
Nitro Joe
Quadruple A Bowling Party
On March 16, Alhambra Primary and Grantfork Elementary students were spellbound by an action-packed science presentation, Air in Action. Grantfork Elementary students traveled to the Alhambra Primary to watch Joseph Higgs, better known as Nitro Joe, help students understand the concepts of air. Joe used ordinary objects such as a soda bottle, a clear plastic bag, toilet paper, leaf blower, some simple chemicals, and fire, to teach to explore the principles of air. Mr. Higgs started his presentations at the St. Louis Science Center at 14 years of age. He now travels throughout the Midwest showing children and adults that science is both fun and understandable.
Classroom Parties
On March 17, classes at Grantfork earned reward parties for showing appropriate classroom behavior. Grade 5 students received a Checkmark Party for retaining a set number of check marks. The grade 4 students had a Marble Party for filling the container with marbles. In the past, the parties have included watching a movie and a snack, an extra recess, or an electronic device period, etc. However, since both classes achieved their goal during “a screen-free” period, students chose to have a snack buffet and board game afternoon. Without electronic devices, students enjoyed afternoons of personal communication and interaction.
Growing Up Well
On March 18, Mrs. Amy Powell, the district’s elementary social worker, discussed “Growing Up Well” with both fourth and fifth grade students. The selected topic was bullying. The format of these presentations is not a lecture or video, but an open forum discussion among students with Mrs. Powell serving as moderator. The direction of the discussion is driven by student experience while maintaining a no names given rule. When discussing bullying, none of the students reported a physical attack. The words they fear most are gossip, rumor, or exclusion. During the discussion, most students indicated they have been gossiped about or excluded from a group. They created a list of who is affected by just one rumor. It included all other students (those who gossiped or not), parents, extended family, teachers, principals, secretaries, etc. They also discussed that time was impacted, because they lose learning time while a rumor spreads and then adults try to mend hurt relationships within the class or building. The conversation turned to preventing and getting rid of the gossip. They decided that they can help stop gossip by refusing to spread it, refusing to listen to someone who is spreading the rumor, and to report it to an adult. However, the students said gossip continues to hurt even after the rumor stops. Some spoke of gossip from when they were much younger and how it still hurts. To give students a visual of how impossible it is to recall or remove traces of a rumor, three students passed a very small portion of glitter among themselves. The glitter represented gossip. No matter how hard they tried, the students couldn’t collect all the glitter. It was on their hands, the floor, Mrs. Powell’s face, and anywhere that the least bit had traveled in the air. Even after they washed their hands and the floor was swept, the residue of the glitter still sparkled. Mrs. Powell left students with a quote from an unnamed source, “Who gossips to you, will gossip of you.”
G r o w i n g
U p W e l l
G l i t t e r
Dear Edwina, Jr. 2016 Highland Middle School Musical
By Patrick McGinthy This year’s HMS Musical was “Dear Edwina, Jr.” This production featured 25 middle-school students in the cast, including the lead role of Edwina performed by Elizabeth E., eighth grade student. Rehearsals started before the Thanksgiving break, and the students worked tirelessly to ensure a spectacular production. Along with the two evening ticketed performances, the cast performed partial sets for the HMS student body and a special matinee performance for Highland Elementary. “Dear Edwina, Jr.” takes place outside Edwina’s garage in Paw Paw, Michigan. Edwina and her friends are frantically preparing an advice-giving show. Her goal is to be accepted into the renowned “Advice-a-Palooza” festival, but little does she know that her production will take a roller coaster ride of hilarity and drama before she discovers her fate. The musical was directed by Mr. Patrick McGinthy and Ms. Hope Waters. There were countless others who contributed, including parent volunteers, HHS students, and HMS backstage hands.
Above: Finale Act 1
Right: All cast of The Dear Edwina Show
Above: Cast with Mr. Dempsey’s 5th Grade class
Highland Community Unit School District No. 5 Category Divisions: K-2, 3-5, 6-8 2015-2016
Madison County Young Authors
The Madison County Young Authors Conference will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2016, at Edwardsville High School. School
Grade
Teacher
Alhambra Primary Alissa Korsmeyer
3 Mrs. Stearns
Highland Primary Dyna Lentz Lillian Behl Natalie Chalfant Ben Augustin Rick Wang Aubrey Frey
K K 1 1 2 2
Mrs. Mortland Mrs. Albers Mrs. Smith Mrs. Counts Mrs. Warneke Mrs. Sinnock
Highland Elementary Kaitlyn Wilson Emma King Elaina Tompkins Gabriel Schwarz Grant Rednour
3 4 4 5 5
Mrs. Wise Mrs. Brown Mrs. Becker Mrs. Shively Mr. Dempsey
Highland Middle School Julia English Summer Carroll Autumn Meyer Abigail Bowers Reagan Crask/Lia Basden Cloe Altevogt
6 6 7 7 8 8
Ms. Abbott Mrs. Carlson Mrs. Medley Mrs. Medley Mrs. Hyre Mrs. Hyre
Illinois Young Authors
The Illinois Young Authors Conference will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2016, at Bloomington-Normal, Illinois. Kaitlyn Wilson Summer Carroll Autumn Meyer
Highland Elementary Grade 3, Mrs. Wise Highland Middle School Grade 7, Mrs. Carlson Highland Middle School Grade 7, Mrs. Medley
Online Registration July 1 –July 21, 2016 It is time to start thinking about what you will need for online registration for the 2016-17 school year. School registration information can be found on the Highland district website at www.highlandcusd5.org under the Registration tab.
The registration letter and Infosnap code you will need to register your child will be emailed to you if you have an email address on file with the school. If you have not provided your email address to the school, we strongly encourage you to do so in order to speed the registration process. Account Information: To successfully register your child, you will need to make sure you have several accounts created for a few different school information systems. 1. Infosnap account—This provides the school with information about your child. We will send the Infosnap letters starting July 1 via email, if we have a valid email address. You will use an email address or cell phone number to create this account if you do not have one from last year. The link to the Infosnap registration page is on the left side of the district website at www.highlandcusd5.org. 2. PowerSchool Parent Portal—This allows you to see your child’s K-5 teacher, middle school team, or high school schedule, including locker number and student number. Access the parent portal at ps.highlandcusd5.org after August 10, 2016 to see your child’s class information. 3. Transportation elink—This allows access to your child’s bus information. Access the transportation site at 209.7.230.57/elinkrp final assignments will be ready after August 10. The user name is your student’s ID number, the password is the student’s birthday in the following format, mmddyyyy (example 06252001 for June 25, 2001). 4. My School Bucks— Online payment system used for registration fees and to purchase school lunches www.myschoolbucks.com. Registration fees may be paid in full or set up to be paid in equal automatic payments for 4 or 10 months. If you would like to make a payment plan, when you add the fee to your basket and choose your student’s name, click “Yes” under the question “Make this automatic?” to get the payment plan option. You may pay with credit card or “e-check” with no processing fees. If you have qualified for “Reduced Fees”, you cannot use My School Bucks to pay registration fees. You must pay “reduced” registration fees at the district office or at the school building in which your child attends. Registration fees are due on or before your child begins school on August 16, 2016. Student/Family Information: In order to complete the online registration process, make sure that you have these key pieces of information before you start: 1. Current physician and dentist information, including phone numbers. 2. List of medications and special medical information for the school nurse. 3. Current insurance information if your student(s) will be participating in middle school or high school athletic programs. 4. List of parent/guardian information (phone, address, email)- including information for a spouse who is separated or divorced. 5. Your child’s student number--most of the students will know this as their “lunch number”. 6. Financial information if you are applying for free and reduced status.
Free and reduced families—You must wait to apply for free and reduced meals/fee waiver until after July 15 unless you have received a pre-qualification letter. You may not automatically qualify for free or reduced meals/fee waiver just because you did last year. If you are waiting to see if you qualify for free or reduced meals/fee waiver, wait to start the registration process until after your status is determined so that you can complete the entire registration process at one time. Access the free and reduced meals/fee waiver application at http://heartlandapps.com after July 15. New Students: Students new to the Highland School District need to provide a copy of birth certificate and proof of residency (most recent property tax bill, utility bill, or signed and dated lease with proof of payment) before information accounts can be set up. The residency information should be taken to the building office where your child will attend school or to the Administrative Center if the building office is closed. If you cannot provide any of the proof of residency listed above, you will complete a different form that will be available at the district office or on the school’s website.
Dates to remember
By May 15 - provide the school office with your email address and sign up for PowerSchool Parent Portal access with your child’s school building so you can receive the Infosnap registration code by email. This is unnecessary if you already have PowerSchool Parent Portal access for your child. • July 1 - Check your email inbox for registration information. If you do not have an email listed with the school, you will receive a paper letter. • July 1 - Registration for the 2016-2017 school year is open. • July 12 - School buildings will be open from 8a.m.-3p.m. for new students to register and receive Infosnap information. July 15 - Free and reduced status website is available. July 19 - School buildings will be open from 8a.m.-3p.m. for public use of computers for those without Internet access. August 10 - Log into the PowerSchool Parent Portal to access your child’s schedule, team, or teacher name. August 10 - Log into the transportation site to check your child’s bus information. August 16 - Fees should be paid, or payment plan established. •
• • • • •
2016-2017 FEES Milk/Year
Total
Kindergarten - All Day - Half Day Early Childhood
Textbook Fees $100.00 $65.00 $65.00
$52.00
$152.00
$48.00
$113.00
PreK Grades 1-5
$0.00 $120.00
$0.00
$0.00 $120.00
Band Grades 6-8 Band Gr. 6 Band Gr. 7-8 Extracurricular Intramural High School Band Driver’s Ed Extracurricular Parking
$50.00 $120.00 $50.00 $135.00 $25.00 $15.00 $140.00 $225.00 $250.00 $25.00 $75.00 $1.50
$50.00 $120.00 $50.00 $135.00 $25.00 $15.00 $140.00 $225.00 $250.00 $25.00 per year per day
The following is a list of extracurricular activities that will have the $25 participation fee: High School
Chess Club Chorus and Ensembles Fall Play FFA
Middle School
District Instrument Rental $75 Athletic Participation Fee $600 Maximum Fee Per Family $225 High School Per Sport $135 Middle School Per Sport Athletic and band fees must be paid prior to first competition/performance (first football game for band). Driver’s Ed fees must be paid prior to any Behind the Wheel training.
Football Cheerleaders Guard Dogs Madrigals Math Team Model UN Musical Saturday Scholars Scholar Bowl Senior Science Olympiad WYSE Club Chess Club (this is HHS club) Chorus and Ensembles Math Team Model UN Scholar Bowl
HIGHLAND COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 5 Serving the Communities of Alhambra, Grantfork, Highland, New Douglas, and Pierron MICHAEL S. SUTTON
DEREK A. HACKE
SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT - INSTRUCTION
TIMOTHY C. BAIR
BUSINESS MANAGER
2016-2017 SCHOOL CALENDAR Tuesday Wednesday Friday Monday Friday Friday Monday Wednesday
August 16, 2016 August 17, 2016 September 2, 2016 September 5, 2016 September 23, 2016 October 7, 2016 October 10, 2016 October 26, 2016
Thursday
October 27, 2016
Friday
October 28, 2016
Friday Friday Tuesday Wednesday-Friday Friday Wednesday Thursday-Monday Tuesday Wednesday Monday Friday Monday Friday Thursday-Monday Tuesday Friday Sunday Wednesday
November 4, 2016 November 11, 2016 November 22, 2016 November 23-25, 2016 December 2, 2016 December 21, 2016 Dec. 22 – Jan. 2, 2017 January 3, 2017 January 4, 2017 January 16, 2017 February 3, 2017 February 20, 2017 March 3, 2017 April 13-17, 2017 April 18, 2017 May 5, 2017 May 21, 2017 May 31, 2017
Teacher Institute First Day of School Teacher Institute Labor Day – NO SCHOOL Teacher Inservice – Half-day Dismissal* Madison County Institute – NO SCHOOL Columbus Day – NO SCHOOL Regular day of school; Parent-Teacher Conferences 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. – PreK-12 Parent-Teacher Conferences – NO SCHOOL 12:00 to 8:00 p.m. – PreK-12 Parent-Teacher Conferences – NO SCHOOL 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – PreK-12 Teacher Inservice – Half-day Dismissal* Veterans’ Day – NO SCHOOL Last Day Before Thanksgiving Holidays Thanksgiving Holidays – NO SCHOOL Teacher Workday – Half-day Dismissal* Last Day Before Winter Holidays – Early Dismissal** Winter Holidays – NO SCHOOL Teacher Institute – NO SCHOOL Return to Classes Martin Luther King Jr. Day – NO SCHOOL Teacher Inservice – Half-day Dismissal* Presidents’ Day – NO SCHOOL Teacher Inservice – Half-day Dismissal* Spring Break – NO SCHOOL Return to Classes Teacher Workday – Half-day Dismissal* HHS Graduation – 2:00 p.m. (tentative) Last Day of School/Teacher Inservice – Half-day Dismissal*
This calendar contains 7 emergency days. Any emergency days used in excess of the 7, will be made up during President’s Day – February 20, 2017 and/or Monday, April 17, 2017 (Monday after Easter). * Half-Day Dismissal – High School and Middle School dismiss @ 11:00 a.m.; Highland Primary & Elementary Building dismiss @ 11:45 a.m.; and Alhambra & Grantfork dismiss @ 11:50 a.m. ** Early Dismissal – High School and Middle School dismiss @ 1:50 p.m.; Highland Primary & Elementary dismiss @ 2:35 p.m.; and Alhambra & Grantfork dismiss @ 2:40 p.m. The regular school day schedule – High School: 7:40 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.; Middle School: 7:35 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.; Highland Primary & Highland Elementary: 8:40 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.; and Alhambra & Grantfork: 8:45 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
Mid-Term Dates 1st quarter – September 9, 2016 2nd quarter – November 10, 2016 End of Nine Weeks Sessions 1st Nine Weeks – October 14, 2016 2nd Nine Weeks – December 21, 2016 Telephone 618-654-2106
3rd quarter – February 3, 2017 4th quarter – April 7, 2017 3rd Nine Weeks – March 10, 2017 4th Nine Weeks – May 31, 2017
Administrative Offices, 400 Broadway, Highland, Illinois 62249
rev. 2/22/16 Fax 618-654-5424
