Miami County Progress 4 of 4 2013 by I-75 Newspaper Group

EDUCATION • HEALTH CARE

A Look

Ahead A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT OF THE PIQUA DAILY CALL & TROY DAILY NEWS

February 23, 2013 Section 4

PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

UVMC to expand in 2013 40,000-square-foot addition expected to be done by the end of this year For Civitas Media Construction is well under way for an expansion to Upper Valley Medical Center’s physician office building adjacent to the hospital’s west side. The 40,000-square-foot addition, slated for completion at the end of this year, will create much needed onsite physician practice space, an enhanced environment for UVMC’s sleep lab and expanded space for clinical education activities PROVIDED PHOTO and hospital information An artist’s rendering of the physician office building addition lobby designed for technology. ease of access and healing environment. Work on the $8 million

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This space … provides valuable opportunities for us to recruit and retain highly qualified medical practitioners in important medical specialties, which helps us to best serve our community. — Tom Parker, UVMC president and CEO

project building was launched last year and is slated for completion in the fall. “Despite a winter that has brought roller coaster temperatures from 10 to 65 degrees and accompanying snow and rain, the project remains on schedule,” said Jim Hurak, UVMC vice president. The new first and second floor will be very similar to current physician office space and will be occupied by specialty physicians such as the UVMC general and orthopedic surgeons and other current and future practices, Hurak said “This space creates greater efficiencies for physicians who practice onsite at the hospital,” said Tom Parker, UVMC president and CEO. “It provides valuable opportunities for us to recruit and retain highly qualified medical practitioners in important medical specialties, which helps us to best serve our community.” The lower level of the new building will be a new home to the UVMC Sleep Lab, which is being relocat-

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ed from another building on the UVMC campus. “The new space will provide a degree of privacy and quiet which is valuable to the sleep lab process,” Parker said. “It gave us the opportunity to fully design the space with the patient in mind, combining technology and the comforts of home for a good sleep study to occur.” Thanks to the generosity of the UVMC Foundation, the lower level also will include a new UVMC Center for Clinical Excellence featuring a state-of-the art patient simulation area for enhanced education and training. Patient simulation provides unique opportunities to teach and learn that challenges caregivers to critically think and process information in a setting closely resembling the real patient scenario, said Kay Rickey, UVMC director of nursing excellence. Improved learning and the ability to then apply the information in the patient care area results in better patient outcomes, she noted.

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

Miami County BMRD continues to serve a valuable function in the community or in the home. Our goal is consistent with our mission “to empower children and adults with developmental disabilities to live, work and play as full members of the Miami County community.” In this regard, we have developed a personcentered approach to assist our consumers and families

more than 300 people with developmental disabilities also are the responsibility of Riverside. These residential supports allow individuals to help create a life of their choice here in their community instead of living in a large institution somewhere else. “Over our years of operation, our program philosophy has changed from being the ‘pilot’ of a consumer’s life to being the ‘navigator,’ helping the person to reach his or her goals and desires in life. What hasn’t changed is our focus on the people we serve. Helping them to live the lives they want as full members of the Miami County community is which they lives remains our goal, “ said Karen Mayer, Superintendent of Riverside. “We look forward to a year in which we continue to provide quality

services to Miami County residents with developmental disabilities. “We encourage other Miami County residents to learn more about our programs and the ways in which people with developmental disabilities can be integrated into our community. The best way to do this is to take a tour. Contact Terry Naas or Denise Kenworthy at 339-8313 to schedule a tour. A Community Connections Over Coffee Tour only takes an hour and helps explain in further detail the services that are provided by Riverside. The most frequent comment we hear from visitors is that they just didn’t know about all the services we provide. Become one of those in the know and help us to spread information about our mission in Miami County.”

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in receiving needed services and supports, but the current economic situation offers significant challenges. Over the 60-plus years of our operation, Riverside has undergone many changes in programming. Riverside no longer provides education services to school-age children, but is serving more children today than at the height of the school program. Riverside’s Early Intervention program serves more than 125 children birth from through the age of two, helping them to eliminate or reduce developmental delays. The recreation and Special Olympics programs are important not only for adult consumers, but for school age participants for after school and weekend activities. The world of work also has changed dramatically with a shift in focus from sheltered workshops to production facilities and community employment. RT Industries now is a true production facility offering employment to people with developmental disabilities, and Riverside’s community employment program offers supports to consumers who wish to work in the community. The governor has declared an employmentfirst initiative that focuses on assisting more consumers to work in the community. We will participate in this effort with a greater focus on community employment and look to our community to welcome people with developmental STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER disabilities into the regular At RTI, employee Jason McCabe carefully removes “all the dots” from felt-material workforce. Residential services for left behind from a punch-out of a piece needed for the auto industry. meet the needs of more BY KAREN MAYER Superintendent of Riverside than 900 people who live in Miami County and are board-eligible for our servThe Miami County ices. Board of Mental These services are delivRetardation and Developmental Disabilities, ered in a variety of settings, which include known as Riverside of Miami County to most resi- Riverside’s Troy-Sidney dents, administers a menu Road and Foss Way facilities, out in the community of programs designed to

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PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

Troy City Schools continue to excel BY ERIC HERMAN Troy City Schools Superintendent

being named a “Hall of Fame School.” Forest was one of only four schools named in the entire state Troy City Schools conas a “Hall of Fame School.” tinue to perform well acaForest Elementary demically, achieving the School’s staff and students state rating of “Excellent” are extremely focused on their students learning, with our performance index of 102. We again allowing “no excuses” for earned 26 out of 26 state lack of effort and academic indicators. Our staff and success. students continue to work Troy City Schools are hard to maintain our good the largest school district success. in the county with 4,440 Five of our elementary students and 500 employbuildings were also named ees. Even with the high “Excellent,” with Concord number of students, our Elementary School having schools were able to mainthe highest performance tain a 96 percent attenindex of 108.3. A special dance rate for the year. recognition goes out to Recent results also show Forest Elementary School an increase in SAT scores for being rated “Excellent with Troy City Schools havwith Distinction” as well as ing the highest average of

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• More than 200 Smartboards; • More than 1330 Desktop Computers; and More than 195 Netbooks. Technology is integral to our new state mandated testing, as all testing will be online instead of the traditional paper and pencil tests of old. It has become a powerful tool that is used by our teachers to reach a diverse population of learners. Students and staff use STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER technology daily throughThe Troy Pop Rocks jump rope team is one of many out their classes. points of pride for the Troy City Schools. BEYOND THE CLASSROOM schools in Montgomery and Our teachers have been Our students work hard Miami County with a score working hard all school of 1,186. year on the new curriculum to excel outside the classOur ELL Department transition, which covers all room. We have a strong (English Language grades (K-12). We also are community that supports Learners) and students working on the state-man- our students in their many endeavors. were able to meet all state dated new evaluation sysOur band continues to measurable Achievement tem for teachers and Objectives for Limited administrators. We plan to grow and to excel. It comEnglish Proficient stuunfold our new evaluation peted in the State Finals for the 33rd year, where it dents. This is an extremely system next year in the received a “Superior “ratincredible task due to the 2013-2014 school year. ing. high number of students One of the most amazTECHNOLOGY speaking several different languages in Troy City We continue to improve ing clubs we have added is schools. the technology available to a group of young students, our students. All of our third grade through eighth SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT buildings continue to grade, called Pop Rocks. INITIATIVES receive upgrades of their They are an exciting hard“wireless systems” as well We are finishing our working group of students as other various equipthird year in the Race to who perform a jump rope ment. Right now across the show at many local and the Top education initiadistrict we have: tive. The major drive for state events. • More than 360 iPads; our third year has been in As always, we are • More than 250 LCD the transition to the new blessed to have high-qualiProjects with several Apple ty students and families Common Core Standards that take effect in 2014-15. TV’s; here in Troy. One outstand-

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ing example would be Keenan Kinnel, who was recently awarded the honor of being the top middle school male student in the state. Keenen is an outstanding example of the students of Troy.

THE FUTURE The district realizes the financial world we live in. As with most districts, funding is our biggest concern. The district’s free and reduced percentage remains at 43 percent, even through unemployment levels drop. Over the last two and a half years, we have reduced more than $15 million from future expenditures by not replacing staff when possible, employee severance buyout programs and a district wage freeze, as well as other cost cutting measures. A significant percentage of our expenses go to instruction, as it should be. Our schools are a good value. We have made numerous reductions to live within our means while protecting the quality of education that our students are receiving. Our hope for the future is that the economic conditions will continue to improve and the State will devise a better funding system. We strive to live within our means unsure of what the future may bring.

PROGRESS 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

Piqua schools prepare for new buildings Will offer new courses in coming school year

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Piqua Schools will take the place of the district’s three schools used for those grades currently. It will be called Piqua Central Intermediate School and has a projected enrollment of 859 students. The building will be 105,579 square feet and will cost $22.1 million. Although Piqua High School won’t be getting a new building, they are getting new classes. At the district’s January board of education meeting, Principal Tony Lyons shared additions made to the school’s program of studies. PHS teachers have created the following classes that will be available next school year: the history of rock and roll, research methods, service learning, chemistry III and AP calculus BC. Again next year, students will be able to take duel enrollment classes with Ohio Northern University. Next year the school will have eight, possibly nine, duel-enrollment classes. New duel enrollment classes for next year are: art, STEM intro to engineering, government, international relations, athletic training and college algebra. Lyons is particularly excited about the college algebra course. “This is unique and interesting because it will be for some of our younger students coming in,” Lyons said adding that most duel enrollment classes are for upper classman. Duel enrollment classes are taught at Piqua High School by PHS teachers. Through these classes, students get credit at both Piqua High School and Ohio Northern University. These credits can be transferred if the student attends a different post secondary school. “They could have at least a semester possibly two of college in before they graduate high school,” Lyons said. He added that the credit hour cost at ONU is near $1,000. Piqua High School is paying $64. Students get to take the classes for free.

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For Piqua City Schools, highlights of 2013 include pursuing the goals of their college and career readiness program for grades K-12, continued duel enrollment at the high school and of course, the building project. The district plans to start construction on the first two of their three new buildings this spring. These include the two primary buildings located on the sites that now hold Springcreek Primary School and Washington Intermediate School. The buildings will be identical and will cost $15.5 million each. There will be approximately 600 students in each building with each being 71,005 square feet. Students at the current Springcreek school will remain there while construction is being done on the new school. However, the beginning of construction will bring big changes for the staff and students at the current Washington Intermediate School. Because this lot is smaller than the Springcreek lot, the Washington building will need to be demolished. “Demolishing the building would allow the new building to be centered well,” Superintendent Rick Hanes said adding that the placement is important to separate car and bus traffic, to allow for optimum playground space and to “keep a good relationship with our neighbors.” Because the building will be razed, current Washington students will have classes next school year in modular classrooms, which will be placed at High Street Primary School during construction. “It (putting the modulars at High Street) seems to be what would have the least impact and be best for students,” Hanes said, adding that bus transportation would need to change little, if at all, and the situation would be best for families with primary and intermediate aged children. Financially, the addition of modular classrooms will be co-funded with the OSFC. Construction on the intermediate building will soon follow the start at the primary buildings. This building will be located on the former Piqua Memorial site and

February 23, 2013

PROGRESS 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

Covington to put levy on May ballot Funds to build new K-8 building, renovate CHS BY JENNIFER RUNYON $10 million. The levy on the May ballot will fund For Civitas Media the local share 42 percent, or about $9 million. COVINGTON — The “This is a giant step for future of Covington our district. It’s the biggest Exempted Village School District is both bright and step you’ll take as a board. It’s the biggest step I’ll uncertain at the same take as superintendent,” time. said David Larson, superinVoters in the district will see a levy on the May tendent. District leaders feel the ballot for a .25 percent income tax and a property project is needed due to the buildings’ ages and structax of 3.89 mills to fund a tural problems. Covington building project. The projElementary School was ect will consist of a new built in the 1950s, the midkindergarten to eighth grade building adjacent to dle school in the ’30s and Covington High School the high school in the ’70s. along with renovations to An attempt to replace CHS. The buildings will these facilities was made in operate as one campus. 2010, when a levy was This project will be coplaced on the ballot to fund funded with the Ohio the local share of a buildSTAFF PHOTO/MIKE ULLERY School Facilities ing project with the OSFC. Covington Elementary School principal Rick Fry checks in with a kindergarten class as they work on a project. Commission. The state will The levy, which was only pay 58 percent, or nearly on the ballot once, failed by a vote of 473 ‘yes’ votes to four full teams. project, many other items kindergarten to eighth 836 ‘no’ votes. The money “This is a great extracurare happening in Covington grade building adjacent to would have been used for a Covington High School ricular opportunity for our schools. new pre-kindergarten to The Covington Fraternal students to challenge themalong with renovations to 12th grade building with selves academically and CHS. They also determined Order of the Eagles gave many locally funded initia- that doing both a property the district a grant to intellectually as well as tives. develop a character educa- build positive leadership tax and an income tax A Facilities Planning and collaborative skills,” tion program for the elewould be the best way to Committee has been meet- fund the project. Currently, mentary and middle Larson said. ing to determine why the Also, Covington is putschools. With the grant, a the district is seeking to levy failed and what would educate the public about ting much effort into meetcharacter education team ing the many state manbe a better fit for both the made up of individuals the project and the disdates that hit schools last district and the community. trict’s need. from both schools will Miami Valley Centre Mall, Piqua The FPC made the recomyear and have huge receive off site training to While much work is Monday-Saturday 10-9, Sunday 12-6 937-773-0950 impacts on public educabring back to their buildfocusing on the building mendation for a new tion. Covington has a comings. According to Larson, mittee working on a new the program will focus on • COSMETIC VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR SPECIAL OFFFERS teacher evaluation plan. providing students with • RESTORATIONS DENTISTRY tools to resolve conflict, pre- Also, the district is working • EXTRACTIONS • RIGID with the Miami County vent bullying and other STERILIZATION • CROWNS & BRIDGES Educational Service Center types of aggressive behavto provide training for the ior and create positive • SEALANTS • ROOT CANALS transition to the new acachange in the schools. • PREVENTIVE CARE • DENTURES & PARTIALS Destination Imagination demic standards. And, lead• BOTOX • WHITENING ers are working with paris a bright spot for ents of elementary students Covington Elementary • JUVÉDERM to fully understand and School as well. In the past, www.bentleydds.com • IMPLANTS Mark T. Bentley D.D.S. INC develop a program that the school has had only a Charles H. Stevens D.D.S. with the Third few students participate; 1523 N. MARKET ST, TROY • 937-335-4630 however, this year there are complies Julie E. Jones D.D.S. Grade Reading Guarantee.

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PROGRESS 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

February 23, 2013

Levies passing allows Bethel to look toward future Emergency crews from Bethel Township respond to a mock crash where Bethel High School seniors Steve Reeves and Jessie Boicourt lay unconscious. Bethel High School SADD, Miami County Sheriff’s Office, Bethel (Miami County) Township Fire Department, Miami Valley CareFlight Air and Mobile Services and Trostel, Chapman, Dunbar & Fraley Funeral Home united together to conduct a mock crash prior to the school’s prom event last spring.

BY LARRY SMITH Bethel Local Schools Superintendent

• Using the Accelerated Reading program, the students at Bethel Elementary have a five year average of BRANDT — One highgaining over 21,000 points light for the Bethel Local each year by reading books School District was the suc- and passing comprehension cessful passage in August tests. 2012 of a 2-mill permanent • The elementary level improvement renewal levy has a choir at fourth grade, and passage of a 7-mill fifth grade and sixth grade operating replacement levy. levels as a core of the music The Bethel community’s excellence that continues support on these very into the junior high/high important levies has school level for the district. allowed our district to con• The Bethel Local tinue providing an excellent Schools PTO is a strong education for our students. and valued supporter of the At the Bethel Junior school district and all the High and High School, students with a high particsome highlights of this past ipation of parents in our year were: schools on a weekly basis. • Summer School • A self-contained gifted options via Advanced program exists for students Academics (none offered in in grades 3-6 who qualify the past) in the superior cognitive • Flexibility Credit area. options via Advanced • Student academic Academics: foreign lanprogress and growth is kept guage options mostly … through various assessalso social studies ments that include NWEA • Added Advanced testing, short cycle assessPlacement calculus ments, Otis-Lennon, • Added Advanced DIBELS, DRA and Study Placement English literaIsland. ture and composition Technology in the schools • Added Advanced Placement United States Bethel Local Schools has history continued to incorporate • Dual Enrollment via technology in to classroom. Urbana University — we Over the past two years offer Dual Enrollment gov- many Bethel teachers have ernment, U.S. history and utilized more technology calculus. into their classrooms by • Bethel Local School using SMART Boards, District named to the AP iPads and computer proHonor Roll of districts for grams and assessment providing students with tools. multiple AP opportunities. The Bethel Board of • Bethel Locals Schools Education and administrais one of only three districts tion continues to monitor in Miami County that had district student growth patall buildings/levels within terns and school facility the district receive an Aneeds. rating, achieved an Index Efforts over this past Rating of more than 100 year focus on updating the and met the Value Added district facilities while also expectation level on the considering best alternaODE State Report Card for tives for energy savings, 2011-2012 expanding our academic At Bethel Elementary, areas and programs and the accomplishments of this improving technology in the classroom. past year include:

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PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

New principal receives warm welcome New grading system, math curriculum among the changes at Piqua Catholic BY LAURA WILLIS Civitas Media PIQUA — Principal Joshua Bornhorst wants to thank the community for the outstanding welcome he has received at Piqua Catholic during his first year in the position. “I am so pleased,” he said. “It has been like nothing before.” The 2012-2013 school year brings many introductions to the school, including a more convenient grading program, the launching of an accelerated reading project and a new math curriculum. And they’re all going well, Bornhorst said. “Our new online grading gives students and parents the ability see the grades from home,” Bornhorst said. “It is

STAFF FILE PHOTO/MIKE ULLERY

Students carrying flags gather around the Piqua Catholic School North Street campus flag which is flying at half-staff on Tuesday during a ceremony commemorating the 11th anniversary of September 11, 2001 terror attacks against America. going over very well.” Parents who see their students’ reading grades at or above 95 percent will find that their child has a new opportunity to be involved in an accelerated reading project, called “Beyond the Book.” The Beyond the Book program launched at the beginning of third quarter at Piqua Catholic. “The idea is exactly what it sounds like, it

goes beyond the book,” Bornhorst said. “Students have the opportunity to do something outside of the normal. They gain a deeper interest of the subject while completing a project.” Piqua Catholic students already have completed a semester of the new math curriculum, “Go Math!” The program, which meets the core curriculum standards, allows

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students to experience mathematics in a new way. Bornhorst explained that previous math curriculums were more traditional and basically told a student the proper format in which to complete a math problem. Go Math! invites students to try different ways of solving a problem. The students then have the opportunity to pick which method works for them individually. “It’s given a new approach,” Bornhorst said, “which has been accepted by the community.” Students also have learned another new approach that will be hitting the school this coming fall, Bornhorst said. “After 26 years of being Piqua Catholic, students are going to be in one building,” Bornhorst said. All students in grades K-8 will begin to meet at the North Street Campus for the 2013-2014 school year. The school is working on opening a preschool at the Downing Street Campus. Big things are happening at Piqua Catholic, but Bornhorst is excited to have the opportunity to be a part of them. “Thank you to everyone,” he said. “Piqua is a great community and everyone is so supportive.”

FILE PHOTO

The Tippecanooe High School football team returned to the playoffs last season.

Tipp City Schools ready to face new challenges BY DR. JOHN KRONOUR Superintendent of Tipp City Schools TIPP CITY — The Tipp City Exempted Village Schools continues to be an excellent school district for the seventh year in a row and nine years out of eleven. Like most districts in Ohio, Tipp City Schools continue to deal with financial needs and levy campaigns. Unfortunately, the August levy was defeated, which makes Tipp City Schools’ mission in education more difficult than in past years. The district will have a levy on the May ballot for 4.93 mill and for four years.

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While it may seem to some that all we do is focus on levies, the district has managed to accomplish a great deal. To name just a few: • Kicked off the House Bill 264 Project and it’s nearly completed. • Reconfigured the elementary schools and it’s successful. • Hired a new high school principal – Mrs. Belinda Banks • Hired a new head basketball coach – Mr. Marcus Bixler • Implemented DASL (Data Analysis for Student Learning) – Student Information Software The school year 20122013 continues to be a challenging year. The traditional way of doing business is passing us by – yet we continue to prepare students for tomorrow, not yesterday. The educators in The Tipp City Exempted Village School District will continue to work together to provide the best educational experiences for our students.

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

Bradford continues its ‘Race to the Top’ BY LAURA WILLIS For Civitas Media BRADFORD — Students and staff are continuing to climb the ladder at Bradford, as they take part in the benefits of the “Race to the Top” initiative. “We are continually preparing for all the new tests that are coming out,” said P.J. Burgett, Bradford Junior High and High School Principal. Bradford is one of the Ohio districts that received a grant to help fund ideas and programs that will help to “improve the overall quality of education for the students,” Burgett said. The district has begun by setting new standards in the classroom. Burgett explained that students have come responsible for their own learning. In fact, come the 2014-2015 school year, Ohio’s students will find the tests to replacing the Ohio Graduate Tests and Ohio Academic Assessments to be more difficult. “There is a higher level of expectation. We’ve done a pretty good job of rolling the process in pieces, and many students are getting to know their talents,” Burgett said. One of the pieces that helps the students is the learning targets, said Superintendent David Warvel. “The students are able to tell you each day what their learning target is,” Warvel said. “They know the expectations and the goals.” The 2014-2015 tests will be online, changing from the traditional paper and pencil tests of the past. “Our technology coordinator is working to make sure kids have the best equipped with,” Warvel

said. “As the new test is online, we are working with the idea that students are having those capabilities.” Burgett is looking forward to the changes. “Change is always exciting. There are a lot of changes coming right now to education. Students need to be taught and put in the best situations to perform well,” Burgett said. The end of the fall semester brought the result of another change in Bradford’s school calendar. The district chose to start the school year early in 2012 to allow for students to complete exams before the holidays. “With the exception of a snow day, it went well,” Burgett said. “For the most part, the students got to start the semester fresh. There wasn’t a lost amount of time that was spent reviewing info that wasn’t retained.” The principal noted that the early start to the school year was a change that both the staff and students appreciated. “A lot of good going on here a far as working with our education and coaches to make everything works as smoothly as possible,” Warvel said. Athletics at Bradford have continually been building spirit throughout the district and the community. “Football made the playoffs this year, for the first time in a long time. That was very exciting for the community and the school. Bradford also added new head basketball coaches for the 2012-2013 season. “Athletics are absolutely boosting school spirit, there’s a lot of energy

going around,” Burgett said. Energy also is shown throughout student-led service projects at Bradford. The B Crew, a student outreach group, is a new extracurricular at the high school. One of the favorite projects this last year was a food drive. Rather than trick or treating for candy, B Crew students and the student council went out to collect canned food for the community. They were able to collect two truckloads of food to donate to area food banks. “Our students this year have done a great job with coming up with service activities. We’re really proud of what our kids are doing,” Burgett said. Bradford football coach Curtis Enis, left, led his team to the playoffs last fall.

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PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

Milton-Union Schools focused on the future BY VIRGINIA RAMMEL the new common core stanMilton-Union dards which become operaSuperintendent tional in ‘14-‘15. Incorporated in the stanThe vision of “Every dards are higher expectaStudent, Every Day” contions for interdisciplinary tinues to shape activity at problem-solving, coupled Milton-Union. The board of with requirements for education and the dedicat- more writing and technoloed staff remain focused on gy. New state assessments providing its students a will be written to align vibrant, safe and educawith the standards. Two tional place in which to new courses – Science, learn. Inside its technologi- Technology, Engineering, cally-advanced facilities, Math (STEM) and Robotics students thrive. - were added this year at Academic progress: the high school and middle school levels. Both courses Even though the district and each of the three allow students to experience the world of structurbuildings earned an “Excellent” rating the last al design and programtwo years, Milton-Union is ming. In addition, high school students have mulforging ahead to better equip its students for their tiple options to earn credits by combining traditionfuture through rigorous al classes with on-line and coursework and more focused staff development. dual enrollment courseTeachers continue to study work.

An all-day, every-day kindergarten program reinforces the value of early learning and entering school ready to learn. Helping to ready students for their school experience is the Council on Rural Services; it offers two sessions of on-site Head Start. Head Start is a preschool program for children between three and five years of age. Both programs give youngsters more time to develop the skills necessary for future school success. Extra-curricular and cocurricular opportunities appeal to many of our students. The Milton-Union “Band of Pride” continued its tradition of excellence at the fall marching band state competition. Students also participate in the “Center Stage” show

Building

choir and entertain audiences at the spring musical. MATHCOUNTS is an after-school math program for middle school students designed to enhance their problem-solving skills. Athletic teams give students another arena to showcase their skills. Milton-Union athletes garnered three SWBL league titles this past fall – tennis, boys’ cross country and football. Qualifying for the state playoffs in five of the last eight years, MiltonUnion played in the regional finals falling to the state champions, Clinton-Massie. Building its Future The opening of our new 217,000 sq. ft. K-12 complex was celebrated at the ribbon-cutting ceremony this past October. This facility is the result of years of research and planning by the Board of Education, staff and community members. The new facility is rated LEED Gold — the second highest rating offered by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED certification is the most recognized global standard for high performance buildings that are efficient, cost-effective and better for occupants and the environment. LEED credits are awarded in five categories: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. Milton-Union earned LEED points in a variety of ways: its high efficiency HVAC system, solar panels, a 15 KW wind turbine, 75,000 gallon rainwater storage

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Workers from Steve R. Rauch Excavation and Demolition bring down the remaining 1938 built structure at the former site of the Milton-Union High School.

tanks and solar thermal panels. Large courtyard and classroom windows allow for natural light while window solar shades divert the sun’s rays to the back of classrooms, reducing the need for artificial light. Classrooms are also larger with more abundant storage space. Each teaching area is equipped with a myriad of technology – Smartboard, short-throw projector, voice-enhanced sound system, blue-ray player and educational video distributing centers. Fiscal Responsibility – Doing More with Less As with most school districts in Ohio, we strive to continue our programming while receiving less funding from the state. We examined and continue to assess every area for costsaving measures. According to the latest data on the Ohio Department of Education Expenditure Flow Model, Milton-Union spent over $300 less per pupil in 2010-2011 than the prior year. These efforts led Milton-Union to being recognized by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics with the top rating in the state for highest achievement at the lowest cost.

As we continue to shape our future, we are confident that with the cooperation of all constituents, Milton-Union will continue to be led by its vision of “Every Student, Every Day.” We are Moving Forward Together… MILTON-UNION’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS The following is a list of achievements MiltonUnion Schools have accomplished over the past year: • Met 26 of 26 indicators on the ‘11-‘12 Ohio Department of Education Report Card • An “Excellent” rating for two consecutive years • 100 percent of MiltonUnion teachers are certified in their teaching area • The 2012 graduation rate (97 percent) is the highest ever • With more students sitting for the college entrance test (ACT), the 2012 composite score of 23.1 is the highest in Milton-Union’s history • This past year’s graduating class received more than $2.5 million in scholarships • Milton-Union is recognized nationally for the highest achievement at the lowest cost • In addition, MiltonUnion spends the least amount of money per pupil in the county (ODE Expenditure Flow Model)

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

Miami East earns high honors once again

STAFF PHOTO/COLIN FOSTER

Miami East celebrates its second-straight Division III state volleyball championship in November. the negative environmental impacts of buildings and improving occupant health and well-being. LEED certification, which includes a rigorous third-party commissioning process, offers compelling proof to you and your community that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

achieved your environmental goals and your building is performing as designed. The LEED rating system offers four certification levels for new construction. These ratings correspond to the number of credits accrued in the five

green design categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources and indoor environmental quality. Examples of some of the LEED items that were incorporated into the new high school include: geothermal heating and cooling, solar hot water heaters, rain storage system, solar panels and an expanded recycling program. In 2013, the district continues to strive for energy efficiency by applying for a number of grants that would convert many of the buses within the fleet to propane. These propane buses would not only be cleaner for the environment, but also would save the district money to operate. In addition to displaying academic success the district wishes to extend its congratulations to the Miami East High School

volleyball team. It won the state championship for the second year in a row by defeating Bishop Ready in three sets. Changes ahead This current school year and the upcoming school year has seen a flurry of changes at the state level with regard to public education. For those who have a difficult time with change, these changes will have a profound effect on every level of education. However, as Phillip Crosby writes, â&#x20AC;&#x153;If anything is certain, it is that change is certain. The world we are planning for today will not exist in this form tomorrow.â&#x20AC;? The Miami East School District has spent the past two years in preparation for these future changes and will continue to work hard to ensure all of all our graduates are prepared for whatever career path they choose.

The skills and training you need to advance. FALL REGISTRATION BEGINS Current Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 1, 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ New Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 15, 2013 >W_cO 1O[^ca Â&#x2019; '!% %%& &$ 2O`YS 1]c\bg 1O[^ca Â&#x2019; '!% #"& ##"$ 2364298

BY DR. TODD RAPPOLD In addition, parents Miami East Local Schools always are very willing to Superintendent volunteer their time to either read to students, The 2012-2013 school volunteer for math camp year began with the Miami or help out wherever we East Local School District need assistance to help earning the designation of students. Excellent with Distinction Lastly, we are always for the fifth year in a row. appreciative of the resiTwo percent is how many dents of the district that districts across the entire continue to support the state of Ohio earned this district even after their designation five years in a children have graduated. row. Everyone in the district is This designation is a to be congratulated for any credit to our students, our success the district parents, our educational achieves because at Miami partners, our Board of East it is always a Education and all of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;T.E.A.M.â&#x20AC;? effort. employees of the Miami East Local School District. Miami East High School Only 13 districts across Earns LEED Gold the entire State of Ohio In October of 2012, have earned the designaMiami East Local Schools tion five years in a row. was notified they had At Miami East, we earned their LEED plaque. believe the staff, students As a result of numerous and parents strive toward green initiatives, the high the T.E.A.M. philosophy of school project was awarded â&#x20AC;&#x153;Together. Everyone. the â&#x20AC;&#x153;GOLD LEEDâ&#x20AC;? desigAchieves. More.â&#x20AC;? nation. Understanding the We are appreciative of importance of integrating the efforts by everyone in renewable energy sources the district to ensure that into construction, the students are successful. We Miami East School District are fortunate to have so was committed to includmany staff members who ing these types of designs devote a great deal of time into the construction of the and effort before and after new Miami East High school to help students. School. The 2013-2014 school The district designed year will include changes the new high school to be to curriculum, testing and LEED certified. What is evaluations. LEED certification? In the All of these changes will United States and in a require a great deal of time number of other countries and effort by the staff to around the world, LEED ensure our students concertification is the recogtinue to excel academically. nized standard for measurThis past summer we ing building sustainability. had several days where Achieving LEED certifimore than 90 percent of cation is the best way for the staff came in for proyou to demonstrate that fessional development to your building project is continue working on build- truly â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;? and energy ing and district-wide goals. efficient. Additionally, the staff LEED criteria are used annually identifies acain the design to promote demic goals and formulate design and construction action plans to achieve practices that increase those academic standards. profitability while reducing

PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

St. Patrick looks to expand junior high school BY MELANIE YINGST Staff Writer myingst@civitasmedia.com TROY — The search is on for a new eighth grade teacher as St. Patrick

Catholic School expands its junior high program for the 2013-2014 school year. Adding a junior high school to the parochial school for 2012-2013 was a new venture for the school

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and has added a lot of new and exciting changes, according to Saint Patrick Principal Cyndi Cathcart. St. Patrick Catholic School’s last had a junior high school program in 1970. August 22. 2012 was the first day of school for all St. Patrick Catholic School students, but the day was a special one for the new class of seventhgrade students. “We’ll actually be having a school dance for the first time in years and the kids are really excited about that,” Cathcart said. “Seventh grade is going great. They have iPads and the kids love coming to school.” Of the class of 19 20112012 sixth-grade students, 14 returned to St. Patrick Catholic School for the junior program. The number of students interested in continuing at St. Patrick’s was a delight for Cathcart, because she said she wanted to keep the class size small in its first year. The junior high students downloaded E-books and use new technology in some form every day, Cathcart said. “They do writing assignments, math problems, research … you name it, they are using their iPads to do it,” Cathcart said. Each junior high student receives their own iPad as part of the STEM intensive program.The

Troy Foundation awarded the St. Patrick Catholic School’s seventh-grade program a $10,000 grant for an iPad cart and accessories for the school’s mission ad $2,000 from the Miami County Foundation. It was a year-long process to get the junior high started, with Cathcart securing grants and participating with the University of Dayton’s education program. Cathcart selected Jenny Holzmer during an extensive interview process at UD. Holzmer is enrolled in the prestigious LaLanne program as she earns a master’s degree in education. She will stay with the students next year as well. “It’s a faith-based commitment,” Cathcart said of the LaLanne program. Cathcart said she still is interviewing and reviewing applications for the eighth grade teacher this spring. Cathcart said she students involved in sports have combined students from Holy Angels in Sidney and Piqua Catholic Schools for league play with the Ohio High School Athletic Association. “It’s a new experience and it’s so much fun for the kids,” she said. Cathcart also said the Holy Angels and Piqua Catholic Junior High School students are joining together for many reli-

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Students of St. Patrick School including Zach Bopp and Lauren Roy sort socks that were collected during Catholic Schools Week in the library of the school. gious retreats and other activities including sports. Cathcart also said she hopes the school can get a LEGO League robotics after school activity for students next year. “We are really pushing technology in every grade that’s the way we are going,” she said. Students are now returning to the traditional Catholic confirmation classes in the eighth grade beginning next year. St. Patrick Catholic Church had been holding confirmation classes for high school sophomores but are returning back to the tradition as a rite of passage before students enter high school. According to St. Patrick Catholic School Principal Cyndi Cathcart, enroll-

ment at the parochial school has increased from 2001-2012 at 131 students to more than 152 students for the current year. “Our Kindergarten class is at 27 students because we provide all-day every day Kindergarten,” Cathcart said. Cathcart also said her goal for the school is to get enrollment up to 175 within five years. “We can get there by offering unique education options along with emphasizing the students and their Catholic faith,” Cathcart said. “They are really living their faith and changing the world one day at a time.” For more information about St. Patrick Catholic School, visit www.stpattroy.org.

PROGRESS 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

February 23, 2013

Troy Christian adds buses, technology and programs Troy Christian Schools has added bus routes from North Dayton regions, in addition to upgrading classroom technology, adding a new football program, starting a show choir class and offering new college courses for students on campus. “There are so many new and exciting opportunities for education in the 21st Century. It keeps me energized,” said Superintendent Dr. Gary Wilber. “Our young people are challenged with the need to prepare for STEM academics and the new curriculum standards, but they also need to understand good character, leadership and spiritual development.” According to Wilber, buses have been added to bring a growing number of students interested in attending Troy Christian from Vandalia, Huber Heights and Englewood. Currently, Troy Christian has students from 31 different school districts. This school year, Troy Christian has added Netbooks, including many E-books, to the junior high and high school classrooms. This is providing students with the technology they need in order to compete in today’s world, while having fewer books in their backpacks. E-books keeps the learning text current and allows students easy access to their books from any location. All Troy Christian classrooms have SMART Board technology or Smart Projectors. Kindergarten through sixth grade classes have Netbooks or access to Netbook carts. “We are transitioning

STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER

Students of Troy Christian Elementary including infants through sixth grade give a presentation during a Thanksgiving Chapel at the school. It’s a tradition that has continued since 1980 when there were 37 students according to school superintendent Dr. Gary Wilber. First grade students of Tara Rench and Sara Jane Johnson’s class perform “It’s Harvest Time.” the junior high and high school classrooms to Ebooks for all the advantages they bring to our older students,” assistant superintendent Jeanne Ward said. Ward oversees curriculum for K-12 students.“We don’t have all our subjects on E-books, but some of the heavy math and history books have been transitioned.” Ward also said thenumber of college courses offered at Troy Christian is growing for high school students. The school offers 14 different courses, taught by teachers who have been credentialed to teach at Troy Christian High School so students can stay on-campus. Curriculum changes to K-12 grade classrooms are in place to meet the core-curriculum standards and Spanish is taught twice a week to all elementary students. Excellent literature and writing are part of the coursework for each grade, and a strong emphasis has been added for problem-solving and

critical thinking skills in all subject areas. The Early Childhood Education Center at Troy Christian added infant care last year, a program that has been fully attended and very beneficial to families needing infant care. The ECEC, which educates and cares for infant through prekindergarten students, offers buses for field trip transportation, elementary resources, an ageappropriate playground, indoor gym and large motor skill room (including a climbing wall), lunchroom and on-staff nursing. Health and wellness, as well as safety, are a high priority in our modern, cheerful rooms. Childhood development, academics and conscious discipline are taught by loving teachers who are credentialed for Early Childhood Education. The athletic programs at Troy Christian Schools have been extremely successful over the past 10 years. The high school wrestling team was a three-time Div. III state

champion three years in a row (2007, 2008, 2009) and state runner-up for 2006 and 2012. This past year, TC’s B.J. Toal was the Division III state champion for the 182pound weight class, while Jordan Marshall was state champion for the 145-pound weight class. Jared Ganger was state Runner-up for 106-pound weight class and Garrett Hancock earned fifth place for 113-poune weight class. Most recently, the women’s soccer team won 2011 and 2012 conference and sectional titles; a Division III district title and ended its 2012 season among the top eight teams in the state. Also earning conference championships for 2012 were: swimming, baseball, boys

track and boys basketball. Troy Christian also is proud of the music and arts department at the school. Beginning with the next school year, Troy Christian will offer show choir as a scheduled, credited class. Currently, the music department offers fifth and sixth grade band and choir, and 7-12th grade band, including jazz ensemble, pep band and drumline; as well as concert choir, honors choir, chapel worship teams and school musical. “Show choir combines singing, dancing and a lot of creativity in the form of entertainment for the public and/or competition,” choir director Rebel Marcum said. The school offers an “out-of-the-classroom”

experience for one week each year, called ESM (Enrichment, Service, Mission) Week so students may serve locally, nationally or internationally. In March, students will travel to Jamaica, the Bahamas, Nicaragua, New York and Chicago to help impoverished areas. Other students will serve at the school, at local soup kitchens, or take college visits. Some students will enjoy a rugged camping excursion to Yosemite National Forest. Troy Christian is currently accepting enrollment for the 2013-14 school year. For a tour, or for more information about the school, call the school office at (937) 339-5692 or visit www.troychristianschools.org.

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PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

Lehman Catholic has remarkable year BY MICHAEL continue their educations BARHORST beyond high school. Lehman Catholic President The members of the class were offered college Lehman Catholic has scholarships and grants had a truly remarkable totaling more than $2.4 year. Despite the global million over four years, or depression, the Class of more than $50K per grad2012 continued a long tra- uate — making the high dition of grads choosing to school tuition paid a great

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This was the 23rd consecutive year that Lehman Catholic has received the Governor’s Award. Long-time mathematics teacher Pam Wendel was named the 2011-12 Harrison Family Teacher of the Year. Wendel began teaching at Lehman Catholic in 1979. Wendel holds a Bachelors Degree in Mathematics and German from Bowling Green State University and a Masters Degree in Education Curriculum and Supervision from Wright State University. Recipients of the award, which includes a cash prize, are selected by their peers.

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investment in their futures. Consistently listed as one of Ohio’s top academic high schools, Lehman Catholic offers students the opportunity to take Advanced Placement Classes, as well as the opportunity to earn college credit without ever leaving the school through the Dual Enrollment Program. This past year Lehman had 30 students take 49 Advanced Placement courses and 24 students participate in the Dual Enrollment Program, earning credit for 51 classes. The Ohio Academy of Science selected 62 Ohio schools and 356 teachers to receive Governor’s Thomas Edison Awards for Excellence in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Education for their accomplishments during the 2011-2012 school year. Lehman Catholic was one of only 12 schools across the state to receive the maximum medium score of 10 points, the highest ranking. Science teachers from across the state also have been recognized as part of the same recognition program. Lehman Catholic science teachers who were recognized included Tracy Hall, Ruth Baker and Sister Ginny Scherer.

Fifty students traveled to Washington, DC, for the annual Right to Life March commemorating the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that permitted abortion on demand in the United States. In addition to traveling to Kettering on several occasions to pray at the abortion clinic there, the students also erected 3,600 white crosses in the school’s yard in May. The crosses represent the number of abortions that take place in the United States each day. Our students also learn the joy of serving others though community service. Many choose to pay to wear blue jeans one day a month with their contributions going to Saint Patrick’s Soup Kitchen, the Bethany Center, Holy Angels Soup Kitchen, Mount Saint Mary Seminary of the West, Saint Labre Indian School, Covenant House, Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Miami County Dental

Clinic and several other good causes. The Students also participate in the Annual Relay for Life, held two blood drives, collected winter coats for the Miami County Sheriff’s Department, and other opportunities that provide them the opportunity to contribute time, talent and treasure to benefit society. The school’s storied athletic tradition continues. The volleyball team won their 20th consecutive District Championship, the baseball team was again regional runners up, one student advanced to the state cross country meet, and four advanced to the state track meet. Grateful to the community for the opportunities we have to share the teachings of Christ, we look to the year ahead and the work that remains to be completed on our School Improvement Plan, the installation of a new roof on the original building, and a comprehensive review of our curriculum.

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

Newton one of the top schools in the county, state BY PAT MCBRIDE Newton Local School Superintendent

Department of Education (ODE) has nominated Newton Elementary School for the 2013 PLEASANT HILL — National Blue Ribbon The Newton Local School Schools Award. With the District has put forth a nomination and likely string of outstanding years selection as such, Newton of student academic sucElementary School is one cess. of only 14 schools in Ohio Newton students conthat the ODE has selected tinue to set record achieve- for nomination. This is ment levels each year. The quite an honor considering 2011-2012 student there are several thousand achievement data has schools (elementary, middrawn the attention of the dle and high schools) in Ohio Department of Ohio. Education and others Newton Preschool around the state. Program Achieves Newton’s local report card data was truly excep- Highest Award tional. Designated as an Newton offers full-time Excellent with Distinction preschool services to the school district, Newton families in the Newton met 26 of 26 report card School District. Newton indicators, achieved a per- partners with The Council formance index rating of on Rural Services to deliv106.1, met Adequate er the highest quality of Yearly Progress, and instruction for the children achieved above average who are served so that student academic growth. each student’s chances of For those unfamiliar with success in grades K-12 are these terms, it can be sim- dramatically increased. ply stated that all of our The preschool currently is academic data from last at capacity, serving 18 stuschool year is extremely dents. positive. There are several famiThis data is the best in lies on a waiting list. It is the county and ranks recommended that those Newton near the top of all wishing to enroll for Fall schools in the entire state 2013 do so early. of Ohio. Information about enrollAs further evidence of ment can be obtained from our unprecedented student the school. academic success, Sherry The preschool is very Panizo, Program Manager successful in meeting the for Schools of Promise and many needs of these highBlue Ribbon for the Ohio ly diverse students. Since

STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER

Newton High School crowned their 2012–2013 homecoming king and queen during homecoming festivities prior to a varsity basketball game. Tiara Jackson was crowned queen and Michael Unser was crowned king. A dance was held at the school with a “Hits of Our Generation” theme. the inception of the program more than five years ago, preschool teacher Tina Mollette and her students have consistently earned awards from the Office of Learning and School Readiness at the Ohio

Department of Education. The most recent award earned by the Newton Preschool Program is the highest award given, the Star 3 Step Up to Quality Award. Over the last 5 years,

Newton has placed more students in Band 3 of the Aggregate Kindergarten Readiness AssessmentLiteracy (KRA-L) than any of the other nine public school preschool programs. The goal of any preschool

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PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

Newton • CONTINUED FROM 15 for academic success once they start kindergarten and beyond. Newton Making Academic Progress, Achieving State Goals There are several accountability measures used to determine if a school district is providing quality instructional programming. The one that parents and the community are

most familiar with is the local school report card produced by the Ohio Department of Education. Newton has progressed each year on the local report card. The district once again achieved an Excellent with Distinction rating for the 2011-2012 school year. Newton achieved the highest grade level achievement test scores on 12 of the 19 grade level tests among the

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100 at the Findlay High School Marching Band Contest. Along with Vance’s impressive score, the band won Grand Champion and ousted several bands two and three times its size. The band consistently received superior ratings in all judged categories from October through the end of the season. Along with the Grand Champion win at Findlay, the band placed first in Newton Music Program its class at five out of the Continues Proud six contests it attended. Tradition In addition to the The Newton High marching band success, School Marching Band the high school choir once again had a stellar recently traveled to New season complete with first York City during place trophies, a grand Christmas break to perchampion victory, and a form. In addition to per“Superior” rating at forming, it attended two OMEA State Finals this Broadway performances past fall. This year’s show and had work sessions was a continuation from with the cast members. the 2011-2012 season as The Newton choir, under it further told the story of the direction of Jason the “Hillman’s” and their Graham, is the largest in budding young family. school history. Portrayed by actors Presently the choir has Halee Mollette and Bo 55 members. Akins, the show explored Newton Fiscally Sound some of the major moments in the life of a The Newton School family … the purchase of District has improved its a home, birth of children financial standing in the and a classic family vaca- last three years. Several tion. factors have contributed Field Commander to this turnaround. Matti Vance led the band The district passed a for her second year on the 0.75 percent income tax podium and scored an for operating expenses in unprecedented 97 out of 2004 and renewed it in

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2007, 2010 and again in 2012. In addition, the district has attracted more students through open enrollment. Currently we have about 50 more students coming to Newton than those students who are leaving. Newton also has taken a fiscally conservative approach to the operations of the school while maintaining and even improving educational programming. The staff at Newton has agreed to a base salary freeze and higher health insurance premium shares in March 2011. These facts have all contributed to Newton remaining fiscally sound. No one knows how difficult the financial future for our local, state, and national government might be. It is quite a dilemma to balance the books, yet provide quality education programs and comply with the plethora of mandates that are placed upon us each year. It looks to be even more difficult in the future. However, we are confident that we can continue to be fiscally sound with a caring staff, cooperative parents, and a supportive community working together. Newton Future is Bright On any given day after school and on weekends, you will see many cars in the parking lot attending multiple events at Newton. Newton is truly “the hub” of the community. As a whole, it can be said that the vast majority of people are generally positive and appreciative of the many good things that the Newton Schools are doing in the way of providing a well-rounded

and quality education for students. The Newton School District is fortunate to be in a more favorable financial position than most other districts in the state. Many districts are asking voters for large property tax increases and/or additional income tax to provide more revenue. This often causes strife and frustration within the district among all stakeholders. Blame often is attributed to the schools for what is believed to be out -of-control spending. Contrary to those making this argument is that it’s not logical to assume that all of these schools are led by inept boards and poor financial managers. Major contributing factors of financial difficulty within schools can be traced directly to the reduction in state funding over the last several years coupled with increased unfunded mandates placed upon schools by out of touch legislators. It is with nervous anticipation that Superintendents await the unveiling of the Governor’s new biennium budget on January 31 containing changes to school funding. One can only hope that further reductions to schools are not part of his budget. The residents of the Newton School District should be confident that with the support of our community, Newton will always be a thriving and vibrant school. Proud residents should also be confident that the local school report card data published at the end of the school year will continue to identify Newton to be a truly exceptional school.

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

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Services:

Sunday 10:00 am & 6:00 pm Wednesday 7:00 pm

2190 Miami Conservancy Rd. Sidney, OH 45365 www.lockingtonumc.org

Sr. Pastor: Don Trumbull Associate Pastor: Linda Dulin-Moore

Sunday Worship 10 am • Adult Bible Study Wed. 7-8 pm Youth Group meets every Wed. 7-8 pm

Join True Vine Church for Sunday Services 10:30am and

Family Foundations Wednesday 6:30pm www.truevinechurch.us Pastor ~John D. Scott II

Greene Street United Methodist Church 415 W. Greene St. Piqua OH 45356 Office: 937-773-5313 www.greenestreetumc.org Pastor Kenneth Stewart

Service Times each Sunday at 8 am & 10:30 am

First Brethren Church 210 North Church St. PO Box 496 Pleasant Hill, OH 45359 Pastor: Lynn Mercer Church Phone: 937-676-2802 Email: firstbrethren1@windstream.net

We would be delighted to have you join us....Sunday

You are invited to come as you are On and off street parking is available, and our facilities are handicap accessible.

531 W. Ash St. • 937-606-2063 6759 S. County Rd. 25A, Tipp City, Ohio 45371 937.667.1069 • ginghamsburg.org

Join us for worship Saturday: 5 & 7pm • Sunday: 8:30, 10 & 11:30am • Safe, fun learning opportunities for kids Wednesday nights & weekend worship times • Middle school & high school gatherings weekends & Wednesday night • Adult classes & life groups for Bible study, growth in marriage, finances, fitness & MORE • Multiple support groups for the Recovery Community • Opportunities for all ages to be on mission for Jesus in our own backyard & around the world

9:00 am Fellowship Time (coffee, juice & donuts) 9:30 am Community Time for all ages 10:30 am Worship Celebration

Sunday Worship 10:30 am Pastor - Rev. Dr. Keith Wagner

St. John's United Church of Christ and Preschool 130 S. Walnut, Troy, Ohio 45373

937-335-2028 www.stjohnsucctroyohio.org

& Preschool

205 Walnut Street Fletcher, Ohio, 45326

The Covenant at Sugar Grove

Office: 937-368-2470

(formerly Sugar Grove Bible Church and Covenant Church)

Email: office@fletcherchurch.org Website: www.fletcherchurch.org Pastor – Andy Perry Preschool Director – Barb Thomas

7875 Kessler-Frederick Rd. Tipp City, OH 45371

For information on Fletcher UM Preschool, call Barb Thomas at 368-2406 or 368-2470. Traditional Worship Service & Children’s Church: Sunday Morning 8:15 am Contemporary Service: Sunday Morning 10:45 am Sunday School for Children & Adults: Sunday Morning 9:30 am – 10:30 am **Youth Groups S4C (grades 7 thru 12) and Faithful Followers (grades 4 thru 6) meets every Sunday night from 6pm – 8pm at the church.

937-999-8166 Sunday School – 9:00 a.m. Worship Service and Children's Church – 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Adult Bible Study and Awana (Pre-K - 6th grade) 6:30 p.m.

February 23, 2013

PROGRESS 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

Upper Valley Career Center looks forward related occupations and manufacturing positions. PIQUA — Upper Valley The OSFC renovation Career Center welcomed project made it possible to more than 800 high school reconfigure interior spaces, students and celebrated add cutting-edge technolothe completion of the $25 gy and replace outdated million Ohio School systems. Culinary Arts has Facilities Commission ren- a new restaurant, kitchen, ovation of the Main classroom and demonstraCampus facility and the tion space, which comWillowbrook bined is four times larger Environmental Center in than the previous area. the fall of 2012. The culinary arts portion More than 400 sophoof the project encompassed mores have begun the upgraded access, visitor application process to parking and provided a attend Upper Valley in the canopied entrance displayfall of 2013, when the ing the restaurant’s new Career Center will add name, The Cornerstone exercise science and man- @8811. ufacturing and machining The auto collision repair technology. program now operates in a Both programs are lab boasting state-of-the designed to meet identified art paint booths, a computneeds for medical/health erized mixing room, mixFor Civitas Media

ing station, new prep stations, air tools and a dust collecting system. Electrical Trades was one of several programs relocated during the renovation. They are enjoying expanded lab space in the north end of the building conveniently adjacent to the carpentry program. Both programs are looking forward to beginning the school’s second modular home in 2013. Students in HVAC/R and building and

grounds maintenance also will be involved in the build. The Adult Basic and Literacy Education (A.B.L.E.) program continues to offer a no-cost bridge program through an Ohio Board of Regents grant. Grant funds allow Dr. Peg Morelli and A.B.L.E. staff to pilot remedial and transitional programming for adults who are planning a return to school. Distinctive

bridge programs are offered for individuals pursuing careers in manufacturing, health care or as pharmacy technicians. The results are trending positive. To date, many participants have continued their education in their chosen field. Another milestone accomplishment happened this past November when the Upper Valley Career Center hosted two graduations with a total of 50

practical nursing students. Two new classes will begin during the first quarter of 2013. The nursing school returns to the main campus mid summer when they will occupy the 12,000 square foot “swing space” constructed in 2010, to house high school students during the recent renovation. The structure will provide the ideal facility for this vibrant post

• See UVCC on Page 19

PROVIDED PHOTO 2363655

Above, Culinary Arts Level ll students Logan Neves, of Piqua, and Jamie Snay, of Troy, are shown working and learning in the new kitchen.

SECURITY & INVESTIGATIONS, INC. 110 West Main Street, Troy, Ohio 2363832

FULLY INSURED & LICENSED BY THE STATE OF OHIO LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED A FULL SERVICE COMPANY FOR 27 YEARS

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TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

PROGRESS 2013

UVCC

Frank Anthony, Auto Collision Repair instructor, from Piqua, supervises student activity in the lab during SkillsUSA competitions in January.

• CONTINUED FROM 18 secondary education program. “As we move into 2013, we continue to emphasize fiscal constraint. There has been no increase in base salaries, and personnel costs have decreased due to the elimination of positions and the reduction of others from full to part time. Fewer dollars spent on supplies, transportation and extended time have also strengthened the bottom line,” said Dr. Nancy Luce, superintendent. “The Board of Education, administration, staff and students sincerely appreciate and thank the members of our community for making the renovation project a reality. “The end result is a state-of–the-art, energy-efficient facility in which to provide high quality workforce training for high school and adult students in the region.” New training opportunities continue to emerge as Upper Valley partners with other career centers and colleges across the region. Through an agreement with Warren County Career Center, Upper Valley now offers a nine-month electrical power line mechanic program. Additionally, through a Shared Services Agreement with Edison Community College and Upper Valley, Joseph Girolamo represents both schools, providing a one-stop contact for customized corporate training.

February 23, 2013

PROVIDED PHOTO

NOW OFFE RIN NG PLU L MBING SERVICES!

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PROGRESS 2013

February 23, 2013

TROY DAILY NEWS/PIQUA DAILY CALL

Edison celebrating 40 years Has new strategic planning efforts in place For Civitas Media PIQUA — Edison State Community College is celebrating its 40th anniversary of serving Darke, Miami and Shelby counties. Forward momentum has been a goal of the college during the past 40 years and this year Edison plans to capitalize on this objective. With new strategic planning efforts, amplified area partnerships and prestigious programs, the college provides local communities with the higher education they seek right in their backyard. Edison is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and is recognized with the highest order attainable by the Ohio Board of Regents.

• Edison Engages Community to Help Shape Future: Edison State Community College is reaching new heights by implementing SOAR, a comprehensive strategic planning method. SOAR, an acronym for Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations and Results, engages stakeholders to help construct the future of the college. “The SOAR process helps us to collaborate with our community partners; create a mutual understanding of the needs of the communities and businesses; and commit to actions that will address their needs,” said Dr. Cris Valdez, Edison president. As a community college, Edison is responsible for serving the higher education needs of Darke, Miami and Shelby counties. By including the perspective of various stakeholder groups such as business, industry, health care, educational partners, alumni and parents, Edison faculty and administration are better informed and prepared to address the needs and concerns of the communities.

STAFF FILE PHOTO/MIKE ULLERY

Students from area high schools participate in the annual “We Are IT” event at Edison Community College last year. • Edison’s Programs Provide Cutting Edge Technology: Edison State Community College has created partnerships with some of the region’s leading employers in effort to provide students with hands on experience and knowledge that is applicable to what the industry needs. “We work closely with both our industry and university partners. There are great opportunities for our students to stay in west central Ohio, seek exciting employment opportunities and continue their education,” said Patricia Ross, dean of information technology and engineering. Edison hosted its secondannual Information Technology and Engineering information night, “Tech Rocks,” in February. Tech Rocks provided participants with the opportunity to meet professors, tour labs, learn about

new programs being offered, talk with university partners about transfer opportunities and visit with industry partners to discuss possible internship opportunities. Edison offers a Microsoft Academic Training Program designed to prepare students for Microsoft Certification Exams. The college holds a membership in Microsoft DreamSpark, an annual membership program for departments that teach and utilize technology such as computer science, engineering and information systems departments. The membership provides a complete, inexpensive solution to keep academic labs, faculty and students on the leading edge of technology. • Edison Nursing Program Receives Highest Possible Accreditation: The nursing program recently underwent a site visit from the

Ohio Board of Nursing, an approval process that’s performed every five years. The results of the review will be made public in March of 2013. In 2011, the program earned an eight-year accreditation from the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, the highest level a program can receive. There are 200 students who make it through the rigorous application process each year. Around 55-60 students are accepted into the program each semester. Graduates of the program will move on to the next phase of their career, which involves taking the registered nurse licensing exam and seeking employment. The nursing program at Edison has articulation agreements in place with four-year institutions

so that students can transfer after two years and obtain a bachelor of science in nursing. The Edison Nursing program is offering an information night in April. For further information regarding this event, contact Elizabeth Eyer at 778-7824.

• Edison’s Business & Industry Center Maximizes Potential: Since 1989, the Business and Industry Center at Edison State Community College has been contributing to the economic success of area businesses, industries and private sector organizations, as well as to employees and potential employees—by offering an array of needed services, including market-driven training, workshops and seminars geared toward professional growth and skill development. Explore all of the courses available to help you “maximize potential.” The Business and Industry Center at Edison State Community College provides the community with a wealth of information while requiring little to no cost. Its main objectives are to provide employers and individuals with the training needed to manage people and projects, advance professions or simply sharpen skills. The B&I Center at Edison is offering a variety of training opportunities over the following months. A retirement planning course for adults will be offered in February for those looking to learn how to create goals for a successful retirement. While a variety of training opportunities are available through the B&I Center, customized training also is offered on a contracted basis. For a complete list of upcoming training events visit www.edisonohio.edu/business. Questions about events may be directed to Helen Wilcox at HWilcox@edisonohio.edu.