KNOW YOUR SCHOOLS

Highland CUSD No 5

400 Broadway, Highland, IL 62249

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, particularly your ability to access the information about our schools and the district which helps you support your child’s learning. We have many great programs for students and a number of successes about which we want to share. We are dedicated to keeping our students challenged, engaged, and reaching greater heights. Please join me in celebrating everything that makes our partnership with students, staff, and community exemplary. Thank you for your support, involvement, and commitment to education and our students. The district has identified a number of key focus areas each of the last two years. I would like to summarize some of the progress towards a few of our focus areas and communicate one of the new focus areas as follows:

district as we attempt to expose our students to a learning culture that will provide them the skills needed to be successful in the 21st century. We are currently working towards a technology plan outlining district needs and timelines to accomplish this goal. • Buildings and Grounds – Last year we created a five-year maintenance plan to address many district-wide issues through our 10 year Health/Life safety survey. This plan is fluid and may require adjustments based on new information and financial resources. We implemented year one during the summer of 2016. We completed projects including new sidewalks at Highland Primary; windows, doors, and air conditioning at the multipurpose building on the Lindenthal campus; removal of loose gravel on the parking lots at the Lindenthal campus; tuck pointing at Highland Elementary; new flooring at Alhambra Primary; roofing and HVAC work at Highland High Scholl; new tennis courts and new all-weather tracks at Highland Middle School and Highland High School. • Review of Class sizes and remedies to address – Last year we committed to looking at class-sizes. We had a large turnover of staff in combination with state commitment to funding the General State Aid formula. Though we saw a reduction of nearly 100 students enrolled in the district last year, we are fortunate not to see a significant decrease in funds this year. These factors have allowed us to address some concerns with class sizes. We added three

Superintendent’s Message

Highland CUSD No. 5 Focus Areas for 2016-2017 • Technology (Infrastructure and support) – We made a few advancements on this goal. In the summer of 2016, the district purchased two mobile chrome book labs for use in Grades 2 through 5 at Highland Primary and Highland Elementary. The total was 240 devices to assist with student learning. We also upgraded the wireless networks at Highland Middle School, Highland High School, and Highland Elementary. Technology continues to be a priority for the

November 17, 2016

new special education teaching positions, a grade 5 teacher, and a grade 6 teacher. This addressed many of our concerns, however, we will continue to monitor class sizes throughout the district.

New Goal/Focus Area:

• Continue to support our curriculum with updates in instructional materials aligned to common core. We have made significant investments the last couple of years in new textbooks and instructional materials. We will continue to make progress this year by reviewing Science in grades 6 through 12. We will also complete review of the Math curriculum in grades 9 through 12. The plan is to review Social Science in the 2017-2018 school year. A result of these reviews will be the purchase of new textbooks aligned with the state standards, which will assist parents in supporting students with the material currently being taught. The parents, students, staff, and stakeholders in the Highland Community School District No. 5 take tremendous pride in our schools. The community works collaboratively to ensure the success of our curriculum, programs, and activities that provide our children with an exceptional PreK - 12 educational experience. We know that you will support our efforts to continuously improve our programs and demand the rigor that ensures future success of all students. As you review this edition of Know Your Schools, I hope you will find a great deal of helpful information about District 5 programs, activities, and events. Thank you for your support!

Upcoming Events for Highland CUSD No. 5 November 2016 17 - Fall Concert - Highland Elementary Grade 5 - 7:00 p.m. - HE Auditorium 25 - Annual Lighted Christmas Parade (Santa Parade) - 6:30 p.m. (HHS Band) December 2016 5 - Christmas Program - Highland Primary Grade 1 - 7:00 p.m. - HE Auditorium 6 - Christmas Program - Highland Primary Grade 2 - 7:00 p.m. - HE Auditorium 8 - Christmas Program - Highland Primary Kindergarten - 7:00 p.m. - HE Auditorium 9 & 10 - Madrigal Dinner - Highland High School - 6:30 p.m. - HHS Bulldog Square 11 - Madrigal Dinner - Highland High School - 5:00 p.m. - HHS Bulldog Square 13 - HMS/HHS Christmas Choral Concert - 7:00 p.m. - HE Auditorium 15 - Christmas Program - Alhambra Primary Grades K - 1 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. Grades 2 - 3 7:30 - 8:00 p.m. 20 - Christmas Program - Grantfork Elementary 7:00 p.m. - Grantfork January 2017 19 - Band Concert Grades 6-12 - HMS Gym at 7:00 p.m.

Flu Season

By Jae Kuberski Flu season is soon approaching! According to the Centers for Disease Control, influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can be very mild to very severe in nature. Influenza is different from the common cold as it usually develops suddenly. Symptoms of influenza may include fever, chills, headache, sore throat, dry cough, generalized body aches, tiredness, and vomiting/diarrhea, especially in children. Below are some good health habits you may practice to protect your family and prevent the spread of illness to others: v If you get sick, stay home and limit contact with other people to avoid infecting them. If you experience symp- toms of flu, contact your physician right away. There are medications that may be administered to lessen the length and severity of the influenza virus. v Keep children who are ill at home. Please do not send them to school. v Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. v Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inner arm. v Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs enter our bodies through these routes. v Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Colder Weather Brings Possible School Closings

We are embarking on the cool weather season, which means that snow may not be far off. From time to time, weather conditions can interfere with the school schedule. It is not unusual for the district to close due to inclement weather. We do follow guidelines to determine school cancellations for cold weather. The threshold for cold weather has been a wind chill of -20 degrees Fahrenheit. Other conditions may be considered if the temperature approaches this number. It is more difficult to determine school cancellations due to snow. Sometimes, small amounts of snow can cause extremely dangerous conditions on the roadways. The conditions may vary greatly from our city roads to our rural roads. Once the students are in attendance, we rarely dismiss early because of inclement weather. In the event that weather conditions deteriorate quickly, however, the district may be forced to dismiss early in the best interest of the safety of your child(ren). If this happens, the district will communicate through the parent notification system to contact parents by phone and/or email. We strongly encourage parents to have a current phone number and email address (that is easily accessible) in our school database system. We also recommend having a plan in place for your child if he or she were to arrive home early. Here are the numerous ways parents can expect information regarding the closing of school or an early dismissal: *Parent Notification System (voice message and email) *News Media- FOX 2, KMOV 4, and KSDK 5 *District Website- www.highlandcusd5. org.

ELECTION…KIDS GET TO VOTE

By Alex Rinderer The citizens of the United States of America come together every four years to elect the leader of this great country. This year’s Presidential election took place on Tuesday, November 8. In an effort to help students learn about the election process, the students at Highland Elementary took part in their own mock election. We had bulletin boards set up throughout the school to help the students gain more information on which candidate they wanted to vote for. The bulletin board went over each candidates views on education, healthcare, economic policy, and so many other topics. The other bulletin board had a countdown until the election, the percentages of where the candidates stood right now, and important vocabulary words. A group of teachers, with the help of their students, organized the election process and worked to make it as “real “ as possible. Students filled out a form in order to receive their own voter registration card. The student filled in their name, address, etc. just as their parents are required to do. Once their form was completed they were given their voter registration card which they brought with them to the mock election site. The mock election site was set up with several different voting booths. The students signed in to receive their ballot and received an “I voted” sticker when they completed the process. Their peers monitored the site and booths. Once all classes had voted, students counted the votes and the results were announced to the entire building. The teachers hope this experience helped the students learn the process of how our democratic country is run. They also hope this shows the students how important it is to take their United States citizenship, freedoms, and responsibilities seriously.

Election Year Unit

By Marilyn Paur On August 31, the students began an Election Unit created by Marilyn Paur. Students voted for their favorite candy bar, which proved to be Hershey Cookies & Cream. Their first lesson focused on the Branches of Government; at which time students created a bulletin board for the

Mrs. Zeller’s 4th grade class.

gym. Since that time, the hallways have filled with election posters and bulletin boards. Each student made their own election folder, where they kept all their election information. They had a lesson each week, using the booklet our PTO purchased for each student. Additionally, every student

and staff member created an election campaign poster to show what they would change if they were elected president! For the final election activity, students created voter registration cards to present during the school election. Students voted for their choice of this year’s yearbook cover.

Mrs. Lurkins’ 4th grade class.

Students with their campaign posters and promises.

The 5th graders created the flag for the bulletin board.

Benefits of Before School Recess By Barry Wittler

Grantfork Elementary has the ability to offer its students the opportunity to get their bodies moving before the school day even begins. As many students arrive on the bus or walk to school, sitting and waiting for school to begin was just a time to sit and wait. Frequently, Grantfork Panthers participate in a fifteen-minute recess before they head off to class. Though the length of activity may be short, the outcomes are long lasting. Physical activity has been proven to lead to success in the classroom. Active students demonstrate increased attendance, higher achievement scores and more time-on-task in the classroom. Morning exercise also supports learning prior to lunch. The time is used to build social skills and allows students to openly play while making decisions and interacting with their peers. The fact is that students need to move and by implementing a time early in the day, (no instructional time is lost) while the students gain focus for the classroom, benefit through socialization, and experience it all through exercise.

IMSA Fusion

By Terri Lurkins We are excited to again be partnering with the Illinois Math and Science Academy (IMSA) to offer the IMSA FUSION program. Mrs. Lurkins and Mrs. Zeller are the sponsors of our program at Grantfork. This is an after school program for students who are interested in science and math. We held a parent informational night on August 31, where parents and students engaged in a hands on activity where they used toothpicks, gumdrops, and dish soap to create their own prisms. We were fortunate to have Dawn Waller, the Metro East Field Office Coordinator for IMSA lead a presentation at the meeting. We have 20 participants this year. Our first meeting was on September 14.

Dawn Waller, Metro East Field Office Coordinator for IMSA

Grandparents’ Day

By Collen Baker Music is so important for our children. It is so important for our society! Every life is better with music… The benefits are greater than you think. The first and second grade classes at Highland Primary recently invited their grandparents to school to see their classrooms and join with them in a sing-a-long. After participating together in classroom activities, students and grandparents had another chance to connect through music as Mrs. Baker, the Highland Primary music teacher, led them in several fun songs. In the auditorium, grandparents and their grandchildren sang songs such as “If You’re Happy and You Know it”, “The More We Get Together”, “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad”, and many more. The students also performed “Thank You” and “The Peacebuilder’s Pledge Song” as a special treat for their grandparents. The program included a moving presentation of pictures of the students and their grandparents. The day concluded with the song “You Are My Sunshine”. Everyone knows that music is beautiful. And beauty helps your peace of mind. Making music offers all kinds of benefits, from improved brainpower and grades to better physical wellness and better-adjusted social behavior. Regardless of the many facts that link music, academic, and social success, events like this year’s Grandparent’s Day classroom events and Sing-along at Highland Primary are wonderful ways to connect Grandparents and their grandchildren!

PeaceBuilder Pledge

I am a PeaceBuilder, I pledge... To praise people, To give up put-downs, To seek wise people, To notice and speak up about hurts I have caused, To right wrongs, I will build peace at home, at school, and in my community each day.

HMS Reality Store 2016

By Chastity Hyre experiencing life as a 25 year old, SuperWhat did you want to be when you were intendent Sutton spoke to students about in eighth grade?  A doctor?  A lawyer?  the importance of preparing now for a A teacher? HMS eighth grade students experienced a day in the life of a 25 year old during the annual Reality Store.  Local Highland IFBW (Illinois Federation Business Women’s Club) members volunteered their time to show eighth grade students what a day in the life of an ‘adult’ would be like.  Students chose a career, whether or not they would be married and have children, received monthly wages, and visited booths to pay their bills.  Hopefully, if they budgeted correctly, they had money left at the end of the event.  Some

of the various booth titles consisted of groceries, insurance, housing, vehicles, child care, benevolence, and banking/ savings.  After students were done paying bills, they spun the Wheel of Fortune.  Just like real life, sometimes you gain money, and sometimes you lose money.  After

Sign of the Beaver

By Marilyn Paur Mrs. Paur’s class read the book Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare. At the end, the students had to complete a project. They had several choices, they could write a story, color a poster, or do a diorama to show that they understood the story. These are a couple of them.

future career.  Students left with a better understanding of adult life and how their choices now can affect their futures.

Color Run By Susan Kronk

On October 1, the Center Schools PTO sponsored its first Color Run.  Options of running either the 5k, 2k, or 1 mile were available.  Over 240 people participated.  While some were truly competitors, others were just there to have a fun time. From serious runners to moms pushing strollers, a fun time was had by all.  The event raised money for the center schools PTO.  This money will be used to purchase various things for the students at Alhambra Primary and Grantfork Elemetnary. A special thank you to Mrs. Dressler, and all of the other PTO members that made this event happen!!

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Very Important Principles RESPONSIBILITYKnowing and doing the right thing COURAGEStanding up for what is right RESPECTTreating other people as you would like to be treated SERVICEDoing all you can for others HONESTYBeing true to yourself and others CARINGShowing concern for others FAIRNESSBeing decent and reasonable with others SELF-CONTROLBeing in charge of yourself CITIZENSHIPBeing an asset to your family, school, and community

VIP Words

We take the VIP words to heart at Grantfork Elementary and to emphasize their meaning and importance, Mrs. Lurkins’ class spent some time going over just that. The students made posters listing the meaning of each VIP word and how they could exercise those traits in their daily lives. All of their posters are displayed in the gym for others to read and enjoy.

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By Patti Townsend Deb Fralinger’s fourth grade class and Patti Townsend’s class have partnered as Reading Buddies for thirteen years. The classes meet in the auditorium once a week for 30 minutes. The students are given a buddy that they read with for the entire year. The fourth grade students begin the year by reading to the kindergarteners. As the kindergarteners learn to read, they will reciprocate and read words they know to the fourth grade students. This helps the kindergarteners gain confidence in their reading ability. We have found that by having the fourth grade students read to younger students it has helped them develop a love of reading and a greater motivation to read. The kindergarteners feel a sense of accomplishment while they build fluency and read to their buddies. Students often become more positive about their ability

to read and improve their reading skills because of the program. While building these skills, our students are establishing a

mentoring connection that is unbreakable. Many of our students say it is their favorite timeof the day!

Reading Buddies (cont’d)

Bookaneer Night At Highland Elementary

By Lori Miscik Reading can be an adventure for any student, but when you add eye patches, plank walking, and name games to it, you get a pirate themed family reading night at Highland Elementary. The school recently hosted this event along with the Book Fair for all three grade levels. The students and parents were treated to reading activities that were pirate themed. Our third and fourth grade students and parents self rotated through stations. The fifth grade students and parents rotated through 15-minute stations. Parents watched and participated in the stations to show reading skills and strategies that are used in school. One grade level had a treasure chest in the ocean while another had the students walking the plank to solve a reading mystery. Our Book Fair was also available during the evening to purchase books for students

and parents. The students were able to visit the Book Fair during the week and then able to purchase books with parents during Family Reading Night.

The evening was a success and enjoyed by all who attended. Highland Elementary would like to thank those who attended our evening of swashbuckling fun.

Elementary School Dawgs - Off and Running By Jodi Durbin The fourth and fifth grade students at Highland Elementary did not let the heat stop them from enjoying some time together. Instead of running outside in temperatures that hit the “Heat Warning” mark, the 60 plus students and volunteers ran inside the school. The Highland Elementary Dawg Runs are in their fifth year and were started by Jody Durbin, PE teacher. Members of the Highland Elementary staff, volunteer their time to help instruct and keep the runners safe. The purpose of the Dawg Runs are to help children explore and improve their current fondness for running. Through the generous support of Highland Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, as well as support from the Highland Chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police, the Dawg runs remain entirely FREE for any student that wishes to participate. The Dawg Runs take place on Tuesdays

and Thursdays after school throughout the month of September. Mrs. Durbin, the staff at Highland Pediatrics and the volunteers from Highland Elementary recognize the important connection between kids being active and healthy, and successful learning in the classroom. According to the Illinois State Board of Education: Extensive research connects the ability to learn good health. Healthy minds and bodies are basic to academic success ,and later in life, enhance the ability to contribute to a productive work environment. Through comprehensive K-12 physical development and health programs, students will achieve active and healthy lives that will enable them to achieve personal goals and contribute to society. Highland Community Unit School No. 5 is actively trying to improve our programs for kids throughout the district. The Dawg Runs are a fun way to help students set and accomplish healthy goals.

Highland Pediatrics - “Dr. Debra Feldott-Johnson receives a Dawg Run shirt from Chris Durbin, while giving Chris a check to support the Elementary school Dawg Runs. Highland Pediatrics has supported the runs since their beginning, which makes it possible for students to participate at no cost.”

Girls before the run - “A group of elementary school girls smile for the camera before setting out on their first Dawg Run of the year. Over 55 students are involved in this year’s program.”

Getting the Course - “A group of boys get course instructions from Jody Durbin. Mrs. Durbin started the Dawg Runs to help kids enjoy running for the sake of running. Promoting Health and wellness is a main goal of Highland Schools.”

Stretching before the run - “Highland Elementary kids go through some warm ups and stretching before beginning the 2016 Dawg runs. The kids ran inside in order to avoid the dangerous heat.”

Grantfork Assembly “Differences” By Terri Lurkins On Friday, September 23, the students and teachers of Grantfork Elementary and Alhambra Primary had the opportunity to listen to Mr. Greg Eastburn’s assembly entitled “Differences.” Mr. Eastburn was born a quadriplegic, but does not consider himself

handicapped. He has a very positive outlook on life and speaks to his audiences about the power of positive thinking. He blends humor with the serious topic of overcoming difficulties. Eastburn spoke about the struggles he has faced and how he overcame his disabil-

ity and dealt with being different. During his childhood and through high school, he participated in basketball, football, and other sports; not on a team for people with disabilities, but on varsity teams.  His great sense of humor lends itself well to his work as a stand up comedian.

Curriculum/Testing the ACT ruled the middle of the country.

By Cindy Tolbert On October 19, eligible Alhambra third grade students and Grantfork and fourth and fifith grade students traveled to Korte Rec Center for an afternoon of water fun. To be eligible students had to prove: • Accountability - by signing up for lunch, returning all notes and library books on time. • Achievement - by having no grade lower than a C and meeting their AR requirements. • Attendance - by missing two or fewer days each quarter. • Attitude – receiving no outs for the quarter.

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All Illinois students in grades 3-8 will again sit for the PARCC English Language Arts and math assessments this spring between March 6 and April 28. Students in grades 5 & 8 as well as high school students enrolled in a biology/life science course will take the Illinois Science Assessment within a similar timeframe. One notable change in the state assessment system is discontinuing both the PARCC and the ACT in high schools. Instead, juniors will be required to take the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) on Wednesday, April 5. It is important to note scores will, as required by law, appear on student transcripts. The SAT has long been the admissions assessment of choice for both coasts, while

Grantfork First Quarter AAAA Reward Party

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Assessments

Most colleges/universities will accept either the ACT or SAT. Contacting institutions of interest concerning a preferred assessment may be beneficial. Students who have been preparing for the ACT can certainly continue that path and register for national test dates. More information about the SAT including test prep, exam content, and registering for national test dates is available at the following link: https://collegereadiness.collegeb o a r d . o rg / s a t / i n s i d e - t h e - t e s t / c o m pare-old-new-specifications

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By Derek Hacke The past few years have certainly been tumultuous for school districts, students, and parents. New learning standards in each core area, shifting assessments, and decreasing revenues combined to create the “perfect storm” in education. The result has been aging, out-of-date textbooks in many areas that do not match learning standards. To our teachers’ credit, they have been working harder than ever to put together quality units using various resources. The impact on families has also been significant. Lack of texts has made supporting students’ learning at home a definite challenge. However, the clouds are beginning to clear and our district is continuing to move forward to update curricula, textbooks, and materials to meet the new standards and assessments. Prior to the start of the 2015-16 term, the district adopted Eureka math in grades K-5. Highland Middle, who was in desperate need of new math texts, began using Big Ideas this fall in grades 6-8. The high school is currently reviewing math texts and will likely be recipients of new Algebra I and geometry books next year. The district’s attention in 2016-17 turns to science. Teachers involved in the review will receive additional information concerning the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Throughout this year, the groups will review a variety of texts/ materials with the goal of recommending purchase to the Board of Education next spring. The following year, 2017-18, will include a social science review and adoption.

ACHIEVEMENT

Highland High School Boys Cross Country

By Nicholas H., Grade 9 Cross Country: it takes hard work, dedication, and a whole lot of training. This season started with 6 A.M. summer practices at Spindler Park. From there, the team went on distance runs around the town. The runs could be as short as a mile or even up to ten miles. The summer training helped prepare the team for the season ahead of them. On the team this year we had seniors Jacob P., Bret C., Grant T., and Jake M. Unfortunately, Jake had to stop running due to an injury. For the juniors there was a newcomer Gabe S. and many returning members: Caleb M., Nick S., Seth S., Quentin M., and Gavin W.. The freshmen on the team were Brylee P. and Nicholas H.. In an interview with Brylee, he said, “My season is going pretty good other than getting hurt.” Further, when asked about his goal for the season he responded with, “To make it to sectionals.” Saturday, October 22 may be the team’s last meet at Triad High School. To qualify for sectionals everyone on the team needs to work hard and leave everything on the course. They need to run past the pain and do it for the team. If one man does not do his best the whole team suffers. If the boys team qualifies, then they hope to qualify for state at the sectional meet. It will be very difficult. For seniors like Jacob and Bret this may be the last race of their high school career. Cross country is a very mental and physical sport. Runners need to be in tip top condition in order to race well. Cross Country is brutal.

before so they can carb up for the big game. This pasta tradition seems to be working, because one of their pasta dinners was before one of Highland’s biggest rivals, Triad High School, and all three teams won that night! Another big win for the varsity team was against the Mater Dei Knights, who we had never beaten in our school’s history. This win happened on senior night, which was, coincidentally, their last home game. The freshman team were able to participate in their first tournament, and they ended up placing third overall. Ashley K., a freshman on the team, played at the tournament, and summed up the experience by saying, ”I think we worked great as a team. We have a great group of girls. We work as one unit which benefits us.” The HHS volleyball teams are having a phenomenal season due to their hard work in practice and of course their coaches.

Highland High School Lady Bulldogs Volleyball

By Ashley K., Grade 9 The lady bulldogs volleyball program is a wonderful organization that gives high school students lot of opportunities. The bulldogs have a had a wonderful season so far. The varsity has a record of 29-2-1 and are working hard, as they have two big conference games left. The volleyball girls on the JV and freshman/sophomore teams have also done well this year.

To prepare the young ladies for the three month volleyball season, coaches Tina Beyer, Dawn Hubbard, and Karen Twyford plan out summer workouts and have practices everyday after school. Throughout the summer the girls have three hour sessions every Tuesday and Thursday. These sessions include practice on the basic volleyball skills, individual work on a specific positions, scrimmages, core workout, and weight lifting. “The summer workouts help all of us improve and strengthen our skills. We begin to work as a team and they really help the team bond,” states Tess K., a freshman on the volleyball team. Once school begins, practices take place everyday after school, besides on game days. The practices run from three to six and keep the girls in tip-top shape for games. As the young ladies work hard behind the scenes, games are definitely the highlight for non-volleyball high school students. As many could see on Thursday October 13, the volleyball players had a large fan section as they took down the Mater Dei Knights for the first time in school history. Along with their exciting win the girls also had a ceremony honoring the seven seniors on the team this year with a small celebration afterwards. The Highland High School lady bulldogs volleyball program helps strengthen and bring together girls. It is providing opportunities and is a wonderful part of our school.

Volleyball

By Tess K., Grade 9 Volleyball at Highland High School is helping girls strengthen their skills as athletes. The HHS volleyball teams are having a great season this year; the varsity squad now has a record of 29-2, which is the most amount of wins this school has had in volleyball. The JV and Freshman Sophomore teams are doing great too, with only 5 losses with for the freshman team. HHS volleyball teams are doing so well because of the workouts they had over the summer, which included drills, weightlifting, scrimmaging, and core workouts. The workouts and practices have made the girls stronger-- watching the girls play at any game proves that! To help prepare them for their important games, they have a pasta dinner the night

Freshman/Sophomore Volleyball Team

New Community Tennis Courts

By Taylor F., Grade 9 Since being told last year that tennis teams would not be visiting Highland High School to play tennis because their tennis courts were in such rough conditions, the Highland tennis teams have put it among themselves to raise money for new courts. The problem was that this was no easy task; in fact, over $400,000 was donated in the construction of these courts. New lights, surfaces, fences, nets, and a pavilion were all added to the new courts. “We are very thankful for how the community has come together to provide new courts so our kids can play,” Angie Fleming, a tennis player’s parent, said. She continued, “Without our community teaming up to raise money for the courts, our kids and our community wouldn’t be able to play tennis.” An interesting feature was also added to the state-of-the-art courts. Unlike other community tennis courts near Highland High School, a pavilion was put in the middle of the new HHS courts. The inconvenience of having to stare through black windbreaker material on the fences is no more, thanks to the pavilion’s design. It is centered in the middle of all the courts, so players and spectators can easily watch the matches from inside the fence. “Not many courts that our tennis team plays at has inside the fence seating,” Fleming said. “It just shows you another luxury that the builders of the courts put into them.” In fact, Fleming says that the courts are just as nice as some college courts. “When my daughter played a match at Greenville College, I was not nearly as impressed by their courts as I was by our own. Our courts are nothing like anybody else’s, and the creativity of the builders definitely shows. You can tell the hard work and dedication that many people put in to accomplish this project.”

Technology Club

By Jackson M., Grade 9 Technology Club, better known as simply “Tech Club,” is a club at Highland High School which consists of a three different divisions including “robotics, which consists of creating battling robots made out of legos and metal parts, trebuchet, which are complicated, catapult- like mechanisms that are built by Tech Team members to battle with other teams (HHS has excelled with this in the past), and the Video Team, who films football games, the homecoming coronation and dance, and other school events,” says senior and possible executive Tech Club member John V. Tech Club is a very important part of this school because “we are in control of most of the technological equipment in the school,” says Vandersand. The club records audio and video, and keeps track of popular school events. The Technology Club has a vast responsibility in the school because many of the expensive pieces of equipment are in their hands. They are responsible for speakers, soundboards, multiple computers and monitors, and also a few cameras. The members educate themselves about the equipment, and it is an effective learning experience for everyone. The people of Tech Club are the ones that really make it function. The overall environment of Tech Club is very inviting and bright. “The members of Tech Club make the full experience more enjoyable. Whether you’re programming a robot or building a trebuchet, it is more fun with friends,” claims John. The sponsors are very educated about what they are working with and will help anyone struggling to figure something out. Everyone works as a unit and gets along. We never stop working hard to get our jobs done, and with our

specialized skillsets, Tech Club at HHS is a very effective group of friends who get along well and always have fun while doing it. Tech Club has come a long way since its begining and continues to be a useful and effective group of individuals.

High School Football

By Ethan A., Grade 9 One of the many sports that Highland High School has to offer is football. Football is a great way to spend time after school and become a better athlete. Football practices start in June, so students will not sit inside all summer. Practices are two to three hours long for four to five days a week. Football is worth the time. Joining football is a great way to make new friends. Since the team is made up of so many people, you are almost guaranteed to meet someone new. As players spend more time together, they create a special bond that is hard to break. When asked about the benefits of football, Evan C. explains, ”As the season goes on, players turn into teammates, then they turn into friends, then they turn into brothers.” Playing football helps players become more physically healthy. During the offseason, players dedicated time to weightlifting to get stronger. Players learn about safety and the proper way to lift weights to avoid injury. While weight training, players encourage each other to lift more weight each practice. Together, the team builds muscle and gets stronger. Football builds leadership within each athlete. As the season goes on, the athletes become more self confident. The players are not afraid to tell someone to stop acting immature. This trait also carries into the classroom. Football players know they must behave and study hard in class because they

are representing the Highland football program. If a classmate is misbehaving, football players will correct each other so nobody gets in trouble. Players help keep a positive environment in the school.

HHS Cheerleading

By Kamy D., Grade 9 Cheerleading is one of the many sports that are offered at Highland High School. At HHS there are different cheer teams that students can participate in. Football cheer is an activity for athletes who are interested in cheering for our football team. Additionally, there is a varsity and a junior varsity competitive cheer team. These squads cheer at basketball games and at competitions. Earning a spot on a competitive cheer team takes a lot of hard work. This sport takes a great deal of dedication and is a big time commitment. Countless hours are spent practicing and at tumbling classes. All this hard work does eventually pay off. The Highland High School cheer teams have had a lot of success. The varsity team has won multiple state championships. Although cheer is a team sport, the cheerleaders can also have personal successes. Cheerleader Kaylee B. explained, “I like the feeling of accomplishment when I hit a new stunt or get a new tumbling skill.” Achieving new skills comparable to the ones Kaylee mentioned is one example of how cheerleaders’ dedication pays off. Being a part of a team sport like cheer has many benefits. Candice G., who is a member of football cheer and competition cheer, stated, “From cheer I learned good sportsmanship, discipline, and how to work well with others.” Many aspects taken away from sports have a positive outcome on students lives. Athletes get a chance to meet, work with, and even become friends with new people. Persevering and working as a team to do your best at a performance makes cheer exciting, enjoyable, and worthwhile.

Being a Freshman at HHS

By Brianne B., Grade 9 Being a lower classman at any high school can be one of the most difficult of tasks. Often times the transition is rough between middle school and high school, especially if one is involved in sports, clubs, and advanced classes. “The homework is hard at times, but I truly believe this extensive and detailed organization among the school board and administration equally prepares us for college as well as for the rest of our lives,” said by an anonymous freshman. This shows that even though it may be a difficult road, one must pass this path in order to get most high quality jobs today.

One of the biggest concerns among incoming freshman are the seniors. Many ask, even years before stepping in the door on their first day of high school, how the upperclassmen react to certain “newbies” of the school. “Quite honestly, if you are polite and mature in the first week, you’ll be just fine. After the first few days, they usually forget. Just don’t forget to wear spirit colors for homecoming and football games,” said by another anonymous freshman. In conclusion, if students keep up with their studies by turning in work on time, asking questions when needed, and studying for tests, their grades shouldn’t be much of an issue. As for their peers, don’t even worry. You’ll do fine!

The Value of Social Studies Courses

By Tristan M., Grade 9 Social Studies. The term “social studies” seems more basic and simple than it truly is. As opposed to just one simple class for broad lessons, social studies classes split into three courses, each with its own value. The three courses incorporated in the term

are history, geography, and sometimes a cultural/anthropology class. The true value of social studies classes at the high school level is often debated. History. “History helps us understand change and how the society we live in came to be,” (historians.org). The concept of history is needed, as the past develops into the present, and thus becomes the future. History helps to show where man comes from and how the mistakes can affect our current conflicts, as man is a creature of habit. Geography. The value and importance of geography is its, “... focus within the curriculum for understanding and resolving issues about the environment and sustainable development,” (geography.org.uk/). Geography and history play hand in hand in showing migrational patterns, human decision patterns, solutions to current crisis based on the rest of the world and previous encounters, etc. Without geography and history, it’s shown that students will have worse logical decision making skills in the long run.

Finally, culture/anthropology. The concept of Anthropology, or the study of man, does not necessarily benefit decision making, but instead presents a more outwardly view on crisis. Instead of facing a worldly conflict with the view of a 21st century American, a student will think outside of their domain of perspective, and try to think of how other people in different cultures will benefit, and how the world will prosper or suffer.

FCA

By Brylee P., Grade 9 FCA is an amazing club all around the world where kids can share their faith and grow with God through sports. FCA stands for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In the club, people in junior high, high school, and college can come together and talk about their faith and their sports. FCA helps people learn about God in relation to sports. It’s much more understandable and relatable than just reading the Bible or going to church. FCA really is a great club that will help you learn valuable lessons, while still making it fun. There are incredible meetings every week at Highland High School offered to everyone who goes to HHS. Every Wednesday, between 30 and 40 Highland High School students come to our meetings. At the meetings, members play a fun game and then have a discussion where the student leaders talk to them about God and how he appears in their lives and how they can be faithful to him. The meetings are very fun and make it easy to learn about Christianity. The FCA coach is Mr. Hawkins, who teaches math and coaches the HHS baseball team. He has been the FCA coach for the past 30 years! When asked if he enjoys being the FCA coach, he said, “Love it.” And then he continued to say, “It’s a huge motivator for everything I do.” He said his favorite thing about FCA is to “listen to young people talk about things that really, truly matter. Sometimes it’s surprising what people like you [he pointed at me] say here.” He was then asked why people should join FCA. His response was “To learn about their faith and share with other people their age. When people get to school Monday, they ask their friends what they did over the weekend and nobody ever brags about going to Church. They say the things that are sinful. Here they can share and be faithful.” Mr. Hawkins is a great man to be the FCA coach. FCA means a lot to many people. They go to the meetings every week and grow in faith to get their bond with God stronger. FCA teaches students to not be afraid to

announce their faith and be happy with it. FCA can change lives.

HHS Varsity Dance Team

By Bree E., Grade 9 Through the years, the Highland Varsity Dance Team has made a reputation for themselves, and that reputation is winning. This team has dominated the dance floor throughout the past 24 years. A big help in making this all happen is Michelle Deets. It was Deets who started the HHS dance team and had been the head varsity coach for twenty-four years. When she went public with her decision to retire, it was quite a shock. The job was then handed down to Emily Wellen, former assistant coach. The team goes to multiple competitions throughout the season, which even includes hosting their own IDTA regional competition. Last year the team’s biggest highlight was an impressive first place finish at IHSA State,their first being in 2014. The team has

now set big goals for themselves, to keep up with the high standards they made last year. Ally B., the captain of the dance team, says her goal is to, “Go undefeated all year and win IHSA.” To achieve their goals for this coming season they will need a lot of determination. Coach Emily Wellen knows that the team can do anything they set their minds to because they are “all great, hard working students.” For most of the team members they always have something to keep them going when practices get hard. Hannah L. says she, “Always strives to do her best out on the floor because the feeling of winning makes everything worth it.” The dance team started practicing during the summer and are already in the mode of getting dances ready for competitions. This team is ready to keep the legacy of the Highland Dance Team alive, and it’s needless to say that they aren’t a team to be messed with.

Highland Homecoming

By Lia B., Grade 9 On the last Saturday in September, Highland High School held one of it’s biggest, most popular, and definitely most anticipated event all year: the homecoming dance. Every year, the gym is beautifully transformed and hundreds of kids pour inside in fancy dresses to watch the coronation, one of the most exciting parts of the whole evening. Local community members are also in attendance as students from every grade, who were elected to the homecoming court by their peers, walk down the gym floor. Finally, as the senior court is all seated, a new king and queen are crowned and the night full of dancing begins! Although the dance concludes around 11:00 P.M., the homecoming fun has only just begun. The following week, activities like co-ed kickball, boys power volleyball, a parade, a pep rally, and class dress up days get virtually everyone in the school involved and help earn points for each grade. At the end of the week, there is a huge homecoming football game in which all kinds of different groups are recognized and the winning class is awarded the “spirit stick” for their spirit week efforts. One student, Kamy D., stated, “My favorite part of homecoming week was all the activities that students could participate and be a part of.” This is one way that homecoming helped reach out to everyone in our high school, and even our community, for a great, fun-filled week!

Boys power volleyball Tug of war

Highland High School gym transformed to “Shine like a Diamond.”

HHS is Helping Girls to be Successful Through Volleyball

By Reagan C., Grade 9 As a freshman at Highland High School, Reagan C. has really enjoyed the volleyball program. She has met so many new people, learned alot of new things about volleyball, and gotten in shape and healthy on top of that. Reagan loves the coaches and really appreciates all of the hard work that they put into the program for the girls each and every day. Even her father, Kevin Crask, is very happy with how the volleyball program at HHS is running. Kevin states “I believe that all of the girls in the volleyball program are good kids who are kind to each other and full of team spirit.” Reagan enjoyed the social aspect of the team too. She got to know people better and “carb up” through the pasta dinners on Wednesday nights before some of the Thursday games. Each time there was a pasta dinner a different class would bring the delicious food. All of the girls were very pleased with how these went and really looked forward to a good meal after practice on those days. The volleyball program at HHS is definitely one to be proud of.

Bus Safety Day During Bus Safety Day, students practiced opening emergency windows, exiting through both the front and rear exits, and moving to a safe assembly area. Prior to the drills, the bus drivers gave a thorough review of each step to take during both a routing bus ride and an emergency situation – including how to operate the radio, proper seating positions,

and reducing noise level for a safe trip. One of the bus drivers also related a story from a past student. The student had never ridden the district’s buses during her time in school. However, she had experienced the drill every year from kindergarten through high school. As an adult she took a trip on a charter bus, which

required an emergency evacuation. Because of the training from her school days, she was able to lead the other riders through the exit and assembling procedure. School safety is our top priority while students are with us. However, the training they receive impacts their knowledge for the rest of their lives.

Alhambra and Grantfork Students Attend Safety Street

Position to assume during a dog attack.

Cross streets safely – with or without a traffic light.

Everything you need to know about water park and swimming pool safety – including wearing UV approved sunglasses.

Walk with friends and avoid strangers no matter how tempting their offer.

Three ways to escape from a car trunk – use the emergency latch, unplug tail lights to draw attention of the police, or rip the seal away from the trunk and stick your fingers out as far as possible.

How to avoid common household dangers.

Christopher Columbus

On Thursday, October 6, the students and staff of Grantfork were visited by Christopher Columbus, aka Barb Kay and her husband, William Paulic. They talked about what it was like during the time that Christopher Columbus completed his journey and discovered America!

Fall Festival at HMS By Dawn Hubbard  In honor of the beginning of fall and the start to a wonderful year, all seventh grade students were invited to participate in the first VIP field trip of the year, which is simply know as -- Fall Festival.  Students began the day by listening to exciting tales of the season from a professional storyteller.  Then, the students were off and running, traveling from station to station to participate in a wide variety of activities.  For example, some of the activities this year included:  pumpkin decorating, face painting, ski races, parachute games, and a bounce house obstacle course.  In the end, there is no doubt; our students were definitely excited about the fall season, for good reason, after a day full of excitement and fun.  Fall Festival was a huge success!!  The success was due in large part to all the wonderful parent volunteers that helped throughout the day, and to those who donated many of the supplies that were used in all the activities.  We could not have done without all of them -- Thank You!! 

Fall Festival

Fun Fourth Grade Walking Field Trip

By Lisa Langham Wonders has a theme about cooperation and working together, which leads into discussion about community helpers and resources.  The fourth grade walking field trip also ties into the science curriculum (plants) and social studies (careers).  Class discussion has taken place about community helpers such as police, firemen, master gardeners, and librarians.  Also, students learn about the resources and services provided within Highland such as police and fire protection, and city beautification.  As an extension to what students have learned in the classroom, teachers took the fourth grade students on a Walking Field Trip.  They began at Lila’s Garden with the Women’s Club introducing the students to plants and the history of the garden.  Students then walked to the Fire Department to learn about safety and what to do if there is a fire in their home.  From there, students gathered on the Square and listened to Officer Scott Athmer about bike safety and Trick or Treating in their neighborhood safely.  Students enjoyed their lunch on the lawn and then walked to the Weinheimer to cool off and then continued to Latzer Library.  Students toured the facilities learning how to use the library and where the levels of books are located.  A storyteller was on hand, engaging students with her talents of storymaking.  Grade 4 students then walked backed to school after a full day of learning!

Fire Safety Day

Grantfork students and teachers were fortunate to participate in Fire Safety Day on Friday, October 14. The Grantfork Volunteer Fire Dept. puts on a phenomenal program. The students learned so much about Fire Safety!

Chia Pets

Grade 5 students with the help of parent volunteer, Megan Henschen, sewed grass seeds into an old sock, kept water in the bottom of the cup, and watched the seeds sprout and grow.

Alhambra School Has A Garden By Susan Kronk

Teaching kids about nutrition and how we get our food is more than just a series of lessons at Alhambra Primary.  Thanks to a grant through the University of Illinois Extension written by Brenda Grigg, we now have our kids actually growing foods for consumption on our school grounds.  The fresh produce has been shared with people and organizations in the community including the nursing homes in the area.  The kids are able to see the process and time it takes for a garden to grow. When we return to school in the fall, the students can help pick the vegetables they planted in the spring.  The kindergartens actually make a salad early in the spring with the first lettuce and cherry tomatoes that grow.  

New and Improved After School Tutoring Program at HMS By Cordean Jones Highland Middle School has offered a free after school tutoring program for approximately 13 years. In the past, it was offered on Monday and Wednesdays after school. However, when the sixth grade students were added to our building a few years ago, our number of students in the building increased; thus the need for more students to be tutored. We were having as many as 70 students each afternoon. It became difficult to find enough staff to help all of the students as many, amazing opportunities such as sports, intramurals, Model UN, Math team, Scholar Bowl, IMSA, private band instruction, and more are offered after school. This year, with permission from

the administration, faculty, and staff, we are able to provide four nights a week of after school tutoring, Monday and Wednesday being offered for grades 7 and 8 students, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons totally dedicated to grade 6 students. Tutoring begins at 2:45 p.m. and ends at 3:45 p.m.. We currently have about 25-27 students each night, so 50 to 52 students each week are getting additional support with homework, some re-teaching, and some one-on-one help to correct misunderstandings in their learning. We are also hoping that students will have some time to use skills or programs that support RtI (Response to Intervention). We are proud of this program and believe that it is making a difference for the students of HCUSD 5!

Red Ribbon Campaign & Bullying Prevention By Wendy Phillips

Highland Community School District No. 5, celebrated Red Ribbon Week October 11-14, 2016, and throughout the entire month. The Highland School District’s character education program, Very Important Principals (VIP) coordinated several activities throughout the district to observe the Red Ribbon Campaign, and to promote the Month of October as Drug & Bullying Prevention Awareness Month. The Very Important Principle word of the month for October is Courage. The message “Have the Courage to be DRUG FREE”, was reinforced through a variety of different activities. Teachers were encouraged to incorporate lessons, discussions and activities into their classes that addressed the dangers of drugs and alcohol, and the importance of safe and healthy choices. This year the National Red Ribbon Campaign theme was “YOLO BE DRUG FREE -- You Only Live Once”. Students and staff in grades K – 8 decorated the buildings and grounds with red ribbons. Red Ribbons were hung in classrooms, hallways, on doors, around trees, and on fences, to spread the drug free message and the importance of living a drug free lifestyle. Red Ribbon Week was also observed through spirited activities throughout the week of October 10-14. As Monday, October 10, 2016 was Columbus Day, Red Ribbon Week was celebrated during the remainder of the week. On Tuesday, October 11 the theme was “Too Bright to do Drugs”, which was celebrated through wearing bright colors. Wednesday, October 12, students and staff wore mismatched clothing to represent the theme “Drugs and I Don’t Mix”. Thursday, October 13 the theme was “Be All You Can Be –Be Drug & Bully Free”, and participants wore camouflage clothing. Friday, October 14 was “We are ‘Red-y’ To Be Drug Free” and everyone was encouraged to wear as much red as possible.

On Friday October 14, 2016 students in grades K-8 enjoyed a VIP assembly presented by Matt Wilhelm BMX Bike Guinness Record Holder. Matt did numerous bike tricks, but more importantly, he talked with the students about bullying prevention, how one person can make a difference and about the importance of perseverance. On Tuesday October 18, 2016, former NFL player Daniel Muir spoke to students at Highland High School about positive choices. Wednesday October 19. 2016 was National Unity Day. Students and staff throughout the district were encouraged to wear orange on Unity Day, to show that they are united against bullying, united for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. October is also the National Bullying Prevention Month.

*RESPONSIBILITY *COURAGE *RESPECT *SERVICE *HONESTY *CARING *FAIRNESS *SELF-CONTROL *CITIZENSHIP

R E D

D A Y

C A M O

D A Y

Never Give Up! By Wendy Phillips

Never Give Up is just one of the many positive messages Matt Wilhelm talked with students about. Students from Highland Primary, Alhambra Primary, Highland Elementary, Grantfork Elementary, and Highland Middle School all participated in VIP assembly programs presented by Matt Wilhelm on October 14, 2016. Matt Wilhelm

is a BMX Flatland rider, and a motivational speaker who talks to students about bullying prevention, kindness, and the importance of never giving up! Matt shared his story of being bullied because he was different. He explained how the kindness of one individual positively impacted his life, and how his continued perseverance has led to his ability to master bike tricks. He shared many of

his bike tricks with students. Students and adults continue to talk about the positive messages presented by Matt Wilhelm, and the significance of this assembly. The Month of October was National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month. The National Red Ribbon Campaign is an alcohol, tobacco, and other drug and violence prevention program is also observed every year during the Month of October.