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A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT OF THE PIQUA DAILY CALL & TROY DAILY NEWS
February 25, 2012 Section 4
Progress 2012 • Page 2
PROGRESS 2012: EDITION IV
ABOUT THIS EDITION Welcome to the fourth of four Progress 2012 editions. In these four special sections — joint publications of the Troy Daily News and Piqua Daily Call — we will take a look at what local experts predict will happen in the coming year. The four editions will focus on:
Education
Health Care
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Progress 2012 • Page 3
An ‘excellent’ year for Troy City Schools high school football team made the state playoffs for the second year in a row and our band competed in the State Finals for the 32nd year, where they received a “superior” rating. We continue to face a changing demographic throughout our district. The percentage of Troy City School students who qualify for free/reduced lunches has increased to almost 43 percent. As with other schools in our area and around the state, we strive to keep up programming while receiving less funding from state and local sources. We are examining all areas of our disSTAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER trict to determine reducThe Troy football team making the Division I state playoffs is one of the Troy City tions or alternative methSchools’ points of pride this school year. ods of doing business. Just recently we contracted with a company to do an energy audit of all of our buildings. Our goal is to become more efficient and reduce our costs as it relates to heating and lighting. Other costs saving measures include a reduction in staffing, a threeyear pay freeze for all employees, and a change in our prescription drug company. An independent community survey recently showed that the Troy community supports and believes in Troy City Schools. PIQUA: We say it a thousand 215 N. Wayne St. 615-1042 times; we are blessed in 1603 Covington Ave. 778-4617 Troy because of our com1300 E. Ash St.-Wal-Mart 773-9000 munity and their support 212 N. Main St. 773-0752 of our schools. TROY: Our students are doing 1314 W. Main St. 339-6626 well and making progress. 1801 W. Main St.-Wal-Mart 332-6820 OUTSIDE THE We are headed in a posiTIPP CITY: tive direction. CLASSROOM 1176 W. Main St. 667-4888 For more information about Troy City Schools, Our students demonstrate quality work outside visit our website at UnityNationalBk.com Member FDIC the classroom as well. Our www.troy.k12.oh.us.
RTI District Wide (Response to Intervention). RTI allows for teachers to provide a more focused instruction for our stuThis has been a very dents. Students receive a good year for Troy City Schools. Troy City Schools more intense form of intervention addressing their achieved the state’s top needs. Our Race to the Top ranking, “Excellent with initiative is in year two. Distinction” for the first year since ODE introduced Our focus has been on providing our staff with prothe rating system. fessional development on The district earned 26 out of 26 indicators, with a the new Common Core Standards that will 102.3 performance index. become effective with the Troy is one of only 86 districts out of more than 600 roll out of a new testing in Ohio to receive this top program in the 2014-2015 designation. We continued school year. We are also to work hard and it’s paid working on revamping our evaluation system for both off. teachers and administraTwo of our buildings tors. were also named “Excellent with Distinction” — Concord TECHNOLOGY and Troy Junior High This past year, all of our School. It is really fantastic buildings were converted for our students, teachers, to “wireless.” This technoloparents, and community. Troy City Schools were gy upgrade has allowed us to add 80+ iPads, 20+ iPod also honored by the College Board for expand- Touches and 110+ Netbooks. The level of ing access to Advanced technology available to stuPlacement (AP) exams dents continues to grow. while maintaining or Right now across the improving the rate in district we have: which students earn col• More than 1400 lege credit for passing rigorous exams. Troy was one desktop computers • More than 250 of 25 Ohio districts to be LCD projectors chosen for the AP honor • More than 190 roll in 2011. Smart Boards Recent results also • More than 60 show an increase in ACT scores for Troy City School document cameras. All of our technology is students. The results show that Troy’s graduates last used daily by students and year performed better than staff. We view technology as a powerful tool that is the previous four years. Their overall score was the used to teach a diverse population of students. It highest it has been in the is the future for our chillast five years. dren in the 21st century.
SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT INITIATIVES We continue to work to improve and implement
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Progress 2012 • Page 4
Big changes in store for Piqua schools BY JENNIFER RUNYON Staff Writer
STEM offerings this year as well. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and math. During PIQUA — Piqua City the 2011-12 school year, Schools made changes students were able to during the 2011-12 school enroll in a research and year and even bigger design course. This class things are planned for the features robotics and engifuture. neering concepts. The district began “Students in this using the Northwest course gain a better Evaluation Association understanding of STEM this school year. According concepts that could lead to curriculum directors to careers in STEM Neil Long and Dwayne fields,” Long said. Thompson, NWEA is an As part of the district’s online assessment tool in Race to the Top Plan, PCS grades K-12 for reading, continues to transition language, science and from the current Ohio math. The assessments Academic Content are designed to adapt to Standards to the new the learner’s level of corCommon Core State rect responses. If a stuStandards. All Ohio school dent answers questions districts must have the right, the questions get CCSS in place by 2014. In harder. At the end of the the spring of 2011, grades assessment, each student K-2 teachers were trained will have answered about to transition to the new 50 percent of the quesmath and language arts tions correctly. This allows standards. In the spring of for both the teacher and this year, those teaching student to see what is grades 3-12 will be mastered and where the trained as well. student places on the curAnd, the district also riculum. Assessments are has big plans for the done in the fall, winter future in the form of three and spring each year STAFF FILE PHOTO/MIKE ULLERY new buildings with the allowing for measurement Big things are in store for Piqua City Schools in the coming year. Ohio School Facilities of academic progress from Commission. Two new classes were offered for Through the partnership, high school and receive lus and sociology in addi- 70,000 square-foot buildfall to spring. Piqua High School teach- both college and high tion to U.S. history and Piqua High School will U.S. history and human ings will be built for human biology. ers are trained to teach school credit. During the see additional concurrent biology this school year. grades kindergarten This was the first time 2012-13 year, students college level courses enrollment classes with “This program offers a through third. These will will be able to choose from great advantage to stuallowing for students to Ohio Northern University. the partnership with be where Springcreek ONU was offered. take college classes at the English literature, calcuConcurrent enrollment dents and their parents Primary and Washington who want to earn college Intermediate schools are credit early that will currently. Those in grades transfer to major universi- fourth through sixth will TUNE UP BRAKES ties at a significantly get a new 105,000 squareALIGNMENT reduced cost. This profoot facility. This will be EXHAUST gram is a great addition located at the former SHOCKS ENGINE REPAIR to the 16 AP courses Piqua Memorial Hospital & STRUTS & DIAGNOSTICS already offered at Piqua site. Ground is expected to High School to help stube broken in the spring of OIL CHANGE dents prepare for their 2013 with a completion college experience,” date of fall 2015. The disJerry Webster 522 N. Elm St., Troy, Ohio Thompson said. trict is still in the process Miami Valley Centre Mall, Piqua Piqua City Schools of naming the new buildMonday-Saturday 10-9, Sunday 12-6 937-773-0950 added a new class to its ings.
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Progress 2012 • Page 5
Tipp City schools teaching life lessons The mission of Tipp City Exempted Village Schools is to provide an exemplary education so all students become responsible participants in society. To achieve that objective, administrators, teachers and staff members strive to prepare students to contribute to the competitive and changing world. Values of respect, inclusiveness, community, communication, collaboration, innovation, nurturing, trust and accountability are inherent through our learning and working places, processes and people. The mission and values create both the foundation and the framework that has promoted a culture of high performance — academically, emotionally, physically and socially. The Tipp City School District serves approximately 2,650 students and consistently ranks among the top in the Miami Valley area in test scores. The Tipp City School District is blessed with dedicated, professional teachers, supportive parents and great students with limitless potential. Tipp City Schools does a wonderful job preparing students for the current expectations and latest state requirements. Graduates, as a whole, perform well at the next level — speaking highly of the preparation they received in the district. Tipp City should celebrate all that is good in the community. The schools are a cornerstone of a great place to live and raise a family. Last year, the Tipp City School District had two
but administrators and the school board want to make the transition by the beginning of the 2012-2013 school year. The following is a list of achievments Tipp City Despite our economic Schools have accomplished over the years: status, we would be remiss if we didn’t continually look • We have earned an “EXCELLENT” rating on the at the school facilities. The State Report card eight years out of 10 and six conBuilding Facilities Comsecutive years. mittee has been revived and • 100 percent of Tipp City School teachers are cermore community members tified in their teaching area. have been added. The com• 88 percent of the 2011 graduates continued their mittee is moving forward education at four-year or two-year colleges, universiwith the help of Ruetschle ties or technical schools. Architects. Opportunities • Tippecanoe High School graduates consistently for community engagement STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER earn more than a $1 million annually in scholarships Tippecanoe High School presented “How to Succeed will be available soon and to public and private colleges and universities in Ohio the committee will continue in Business Without Really Trying” last March. and across the nation. The 2011 graduates earned to seek community input in more than $2.8 million in scholarships. ask Tipp City taxpayers for figuring, class sizes will an effort to reach a consen• 2010/2011 Tippecanoe High School athletes took only increase minimally. the least amount possible. sus for a five-year facilities Our district’s class sizes One way to reduce costs 10 out of 21 CBC titles. plan. will still be smaller than and not affect education is • Five TMS and two THS students participated in The only way we can to reconfigure the district’s many other high achieving the State Science Fair, with four earning superior ratmake these changes take school districts. The bottom root — the only way these elementary buildings by ings. line is, we can no longer grade level. changes become part of our • Members of the TMS Power of the Pen teams afford to continue to offer This topic has been culture, is if there is buy-in went to state. the educational services and from teachers, students and much talked about and • The Tippecanoe High School band and choir programs we’ve always researched. Tipp City parents. We must work earned Superior ratings at the state contest. offered based simply on the through the process of School administrators and • L.T. Ball Intermediate school raised $12,288 for board members are looking neighborhood school model. change and learn from our Relay for Life at reconfiguring Broadway This change would save Tipp own work. It takes a com• The Tipp City Schools’ Curriculum Team reviewed and Nevin Coppock elemen- City School taxpayers munity working with a and revised curricula in language arts and reading. approximately $1 million tary buildings by grade shared vision — a vision to • All five district school buildings are now equipped over the next five years. level. The plan is to house be the very best we can be with Wi-Fi. Collaboration is another kindergarten and first each and every day. • Every teacher is continuing to challenge our stuimportant reason for the grade at Nevin Coppock Our job is to keep the dents by being digital teachers. reconfiguration. Buildings Elementary and second schools a vibrant, safe, eduwould not have to be remod- cational place for kids. As through third grades at major events: • Going to the public for Broadway Elementary. By eled to accommodate the always, Tipp City School • Governor Kasich’s more funds so we can constudents, so there is little reconfiguring the elemenadministrators and teachers biennial budget’s impact on tinue the level of education tary schools, the District cost involved in the reorare keeping an eye out for Tipp City Exempted Village the school district has ganization. Grade banding improvement and to our can reduce the number of Schools’ revenue, which was become accustomed to and teaching positions — ideally the district’s elementary future. decreased by $1,311,196 in passing the levy by the end through attrition. By recon- buildings is not finalized, FY2012 from what it of FY2012. received in FY 2011, from • Reconfiguring the state. The District had the district’s elementary to make a number of cuts to buildings by grade level. plug the hole. • Reviving the Building • The passage of the Facilities Committee. renewal levy on Nov. 8, The administration and SECURITY & 2011 made it easier to plan school board have been INVESTIGATIONS, INC. and move forward. preparing for the changes 110 West Main Street, Troy, Ohio Because of last year’s in the budget. We wanted to events and facing another avoid, or at least delay, comFULLY INSURED & LICENSED BY THE STATE OF OHIO $600,000 to $700,000 in ing back taxpayer’s for addiLOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED cuts in FY2012, I foresee tional money. In preparaA FULL SERVICE COMPANY FOR 27 YEARS the district having three tion we are looking at ways Jack D. Cheadle, Founder Phone: 937-339-8530 2255363 major events this year: to reduce costs so we can
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Progress 2012 • Page 6
New school building on the horizon at Milton BY DR. VIRGINIA RAMMEL Milton-Union Superintendent
Additional Accountability Measures
The percentage of students graduating from high school continues to climb — 95.8 percent — with a higher number of graduates pursuing a postsecondary education. ACT Academically composite scores are The vision, “Every among the highest in MStudent, Every Day,” is U’s history. The ACT is taking shape in Miltontaken by high school stuUnion in a variety of ways. dents who are interested For the first time at M-U, in attending college. Three each of the three buildings students in the and the district earned an Elementary Gifted Class “Excellent” rating on the were among the 130 fifth 2010-2011 Ohio graders recognized nationDepartment of Education ally for perfect scores in report card. this year’s WordMasters In addition, in a nation- Challenge. The al study compiled by the WordMasters Challenge is U.S. Department of STAFF FILE PHOTO/JAMES HOUSER a national language arts Education’s National A new gymnasium is in the works at Milton-Union. competition entered by Center for Education approximately 220,000 stuyear, the focus is two-fold: individual student growth Statistics and the New dents annually. a deeper understanding of in each of the academic American Foundation’s the new common core stan- areas. Teachers and Federal Education Budget, New Emphasis administrators are also dards and a new concept, M-U Schools earned the spending time comparing value-added. Value-added However, as in true top rating across the state is an additional accounta- the differences between Bulldog fashion, M-U for highest achievement the ’01 state standards bility tool that measures strives to improve! This and lowest costs. presently in use to the newly adopted common core standards in language arts and math and planning for the implementation of both into their instruction. New initiatives this school year include the fifth/sixth grade looping venture. This experience has allowed students in fifth and sixth grades to stay with “their” teacher for both years, thus reducing transition time between the elementary and middle schools. This Manufacturing,, Healthh Care Manufacturing Care,, HVAC/R, HV VAC/R, Office Office,, Alter Alternative n e Energ nativ Energyy & more more.. has resulted in more concentrated teaching/learning time and the development of stronger Career C areer and Technical Techni echnical cal E Education ducation for for Adults Adults teacher/student relationTTraining raining for for individuals individu uals or an entire entire w workforce. orkforce. ships. Another new proupp ervalleycc.org 1.800.589.6963 or 778.8419 uppervalleycc.org gram is Head Start. Head
Milton-Union Schools have much to look forward to in the coming year and already has accomplished a great deal this school year:
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feet, aim to maximize natural lighting. Three 25,000 gallon tanks collect rainwater. The rainwater will be treated and then used to flush urinals and toilets. Solar panels will help to heat the building while thermal arrays on the roof above the kitchen are designed to heat water that will be used in the food-prep area.
Building its Future
Moving Forward Together
Enthusiasm is building as the new Pre K-12 facility is nearing completion. The 217,000-square-foot complex is being constructed along Milton-Potsdam Road on land bequeathed to the district by Nellie Lowry. Among the features included are fully equipped science classrooms in the middle and high; teaching walls in each classroom, each mounted with a Smart Board, a shortthrow projector and whiteboards; a large music suite; a 5,700 square-foot learning center; two stages and athletic spaces that include a high school regulationsized gym and another college regulation-sized floor. The Ohio School Facility Commission requires that the new facility be “green” and achieve a minimum LEED Silver status; therefore, many initiatives that incorporate renewable energy resources are included in the project such as an ice storage cooling system that makes ice during the night during low-peak energy hours and is used during the day to cool the water that circulates through the building’s air conditioning system. Large windows, 8-by-8-
M-U in conjunction with the village of West Milton was awarded a $200,000 Safe Routes to School grant for infrastructure and non-infrastructure needs. Sidewalks along Hasket Road and in-house safety programs will help to ensure that students have the knowledge and the infrastructure needed to stay safe on their way to and from school. A partnership with Wright State University works two ways — a lab setting for prospective teachers yet will provide Milton-Union teachers with professional development opportunities. Thanks to a strong relationship with service organizations and community members, students are supported through special programs like the Angel Network and the churchaffiliated Kids’ Hope program. Dozens of volunteers donate time within the school day to provide extra help to students. 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.”
Progress 2012 • Page 7
Upper Valley Career Center offers many opportunities Career Center to provide even more advanced and state-of-the art instruction to meet the needs of area PIQUA — The 60 new students and employers,” skylights aren’t the only windows opening up to the said Dr. Nancy Luce, sky at Upper Valley Career superintendent. The UVCC, which Center. The school is conchanged its name from tinuing to be forwardfocused in career-technical Upper Valley Joint Vocational School in 2011 education by adding new to better represent the full programs, like Aerospace Occupation and Discovery, purpose of the institution, celebrated in December passing new milestones and of course undergoing a when students began using the south end of the buildreconstruction project. The renovation project, ing. The 37-year-old school is receiving updated feawhich is being completed tures in technology and in stages, not only shows changes on the facade, said changes to make the building more energy efficient. Kathy Voris public relaOn Jan. 27, the school tions coordinator for closed its long-time restauUVCC, but continues its rant, Upper Valley Inn, career focused education, which will re-open in the making improvements on fall as the new the inside of the facility, Cornerstone@8811. The also. new name reflects the “The renovations will school’s address — 8811 enable Upper Valley BY LAURA WILLIS Staff Writer
Looney Road, and will continue to be a focus for the Career Centers culinary arts program. “The restaurant is for the benefit of the students,” Voris said. “It will cover a broad range of foods and the facility’s progress is looking really good.” Other ways the UVCC is moving forward is by offering new programs like Aerospace Occupation and Discovery. The UVCC continues to offer the nearly 30 Career and Technical Education Pathways, which not only provide entry level workforce development training but a step towards immediate employment upon completion. The UVCC has ongoing goals to keep the future in mind with career and technical education.
“Career and technical education has always been forward-focused.” “This combined with a solid foundation in academics and core curriculum helps prepare our students for success in their pursuit of continued education and careers. The rapid advances we’ve seen in technology over the past decade make it very clear that continued workplace relevancy will require a commitment to excellence and life-long learning,” Voris said. The UVCC offers education to high school students and adults. More than 40 percent of students continue from the UVCC to other areas of higher education. The renovation will not only give students a new facility to foster educational steps, but a place to build a great
future, Voris said. “As we’ve been going through the construction process, the building has morphed into what is coming forward in the future. It’s career and technical education and presents forward-thinking to prepare students for the future. I’m delighted to say this is demonstrated everyday in our Upper Valley Career
Center labs and classrooms as staff continue to advance their own technical skills and delivery methods. The drive to “learn more — do better” may not be contagious, but it is very engaging. It’s exciting to work and learn in the career-technical environment,” Voris said. To learn more about the UVCC, visit www.uppervalleycc.org
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Jackson Center High School junior Ashley Coe, right, checks Troy High School junior Courtney Murphy’s heart beat with a stethoscope Wednesday at Troy High School. Both are students in the medical technology program at the Upper Valley Career Center. They both were a part of the UVCC informational fair at the high school.
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Progress 2012 • Page 8
New high school highlights Miami East’s year BY DR. TODD RAPPOLD certification? Miami East Schools In the United States Superintendent and in a number of other countries around the On Aug. 23, 2011, the world, LEED certification district opened the new is the recognized standard high school and successful- for measuring building ly completed a 10-year sustainability. Achieving facilities master plan for LEED certification is the the district. For the past best way for you to demon10 years, hundreds of par- strate that your building ents, community members project is truly “green” and and staff members had just as important, energy participated in the faciliefficient. ties plan with the district. LEED criteria are used The opening of the high in the design to promote school was a result from design and construction years of research and a practices that increase detailed study by the profitability while reducboard of education, admin- ing the negative environistration, employees, com- mental impacts of buildmunity members and the ings and improving occuOhio School Facilities pant health and wellCommission. being. LEED certification, Completion of the high which includes a rigorous school occurred in the fall third-party commissioning of 2011. The community process, offers compelling and district eagerly looked proof to you and your comforward to the completion munity that you’ve of the new high school achieved your environmenwhich included larger tal goals and your building classrooms, the latest in is performing as designed. technology, a larger cafeteThe LEED rating sysria and a lecture hall. tem offers four certificaUnderstanding the tion levels for new conimportance of integrating struction — Certified, renewable energy sources Silver, Gold and Platinum. into construction, the These ratings correspond Miami East School District to the number of credits was committed to includaccrued in the five green ing these types of designs design categories: sustaininto the construction of the able sites, water efficiency, new high school. The disenergy and atmosphere, trict has designed the new materials and resources high school to be LEED and indoor environmental certified. What is LEED quality. Miami East High
School is being designed to be Silver rated. Examples of some of the LEED items that were incorporated into the new high school included: • Geothermal heating and cooling • Solar hot water heaters • Rain storage system • Solar panels above the science classrooms • An expanded recycling program. The geothermal heating and cooling field has been installed in front of the existing board office and new high school. This field was buried underground and will help offset the costs associated with heating and cooling a facility. Solar hot water heaters also have been installed throughout the building utilizing solar panels to preheat the water. This translates into less power being needed to bring the water to the optimal temperature needed. A rain storage system will be used to offset the amount of water needed to flush restrooms throughout the building.
1 out of only 15 The official State Report Cards were released just prior to the
CONTINUNED ON PAGE 9
STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER
The Miami East girls volleyball team captured a state championship last fall.
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Miami East 2007. Congratulations to Coach Cash, Coach Smith, Coach Kiwacka and the whole Viking team!
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 start of the 2011-2012 school year. When the staff and students received the “Excellent with Distinction” designation for the fourth year in a row, the district became 1 of only 15 districts across the state (613 total districts) to receive the designation four years in a row! Congratulations to everyone! This designation is a credit to our students, our parents, our educational partners, our board of education, and all of the employees of the Miami East Local School District. The “value-added” measurement on the school building and district report cards concentrated on grades fourth through eighth in reading and math. This information will tell how much “value” a school and its teachers have added to student’s learning in a year. The value-added measure reports the average of every child’s progress. Until now, the state measured the achievement of students at a specific point in time on a state test, like a snapshot of one day in a child’s life. With new value-added data, we now can tell the story of student’s progress, so measurement becomes more like a photo album. We can see improvement from year to year to see how much they’ve grown. For example, in the past, the state has compared one fourth-grade class to the previous year’s fourth-grade class. Comparing two different groups of children doesn’t tell us much about teaching and learning over time, but measuring the
Academic Team The Miami East High School Academic Team competed at the Tippecanoe High School Academic Challenge Tournament on Nov. 5. There they proceeded to win their division championship, competing on buzzers in a wide variety of subject areas against the following schools: White Cloud (Michigan), Northwestern, Benjamin Logan, Urbana, MVCTC, Tecumseh and Kenton Ridge. By winning this division championship, Miami East will, for the first time, be granted a berth in the O.A.C., the Ohio Academic Competition. This April they will compete in the O.A.C. regional tournament hosted at Tippecanoe High School.
Congratulations to these members of the varsity team that competed Nov. 5: Jake Pemberton, Zane Smith, Alex McGillvary, Tanner Church, Kaitlyn Schellhouse and Josh Kline.
OMEA District 11 Honor Choir Congratulations to the following Miami East Choir Students: Elizabeth Lachat, Emily Brown, Katey Matlock, Kaitlin Schellhouse, Rebekah Zellers and Dakota Potts. These talented singers were selected by CD audition for OMEA District XI Festival Honor Choir. The students requirements were to sing a solo then perform “America” acapella. The choir consisted of 110 students from Miami, Shelby, Darke, Logan and Champaign Counties. Dr. Jeremy Jones of Miami University was the guest conductor for the choir.
STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER
The Miami East High School marching band performs at a halftime show last fall. progress of the same group of children from year to year can help teachers and administrators, students and parents pinpoint problems and gauge successes. The staff and students were ecstatic this week about the state report card results. It is always reassuring to know when a team works toward a collective goal and puts in the time and effort that good things will occur. At Miami East we believe the staff, students and parents strive toward the TEAM philosophy of “Together, Everyone, Achieves, More.” We are appreciative of the efforts by everyone in the district
to ensure that students are successful. We are fortunate to have so many staff members who devote a great deal of time and effort before and after school to help students. This summer alone, we had several days where more than 90 percent of the staff came in for professional development to continue working on building and district-wide goals. Additionally, the staff annually identifies academic goals and formulate action plans to achieve those academic standards. In addition, parents are always very willing to volunteer their time to either read to students, volunteer for math camp, or help out
wherever we need assistance to help students. Lastly, we are always appreciative of the residents of the district that continue to support the district even after their children have graduated. Everyone in the district is to be congratulated for any success the district achieves because at Miami East it is always a TEAM effort. Last fall, the Lady Vikings volleyball team defeated Gilmour Academy in four exciting sets to become 2011 Division III State Champions. Gilmour Academy was state runner-up in 2008 and 2011 with another Final Four appearance in
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Progress 2012 • Page 10
Newton has a proud tradition when we refer to the “Newton family.” It can be truthfully said that the Newton community, as a whole, does take responsiNewton Local School has much to proud of in its bility in helping raise every child! long and storied history: BY PAT MCBRIDE Superintedent of Newton Local School
square-feet of remodeled existing space. The overall facility has 120,000square-feet of space serving students in pre-school to Grade 12. The technology infrastructure supports the most recent technologies available with sufficient “stretch” to accommodate future technological advances. Every classroom is equipped with an interactive white board (ENO board) with mobile slates, document camera, sound enhancement, video projector, and wired for individual classroom or total school media distribution. The building is equipped with a wireless network for Internet/server use, 40 security cameras that can be remotely accessed and a climate controlled heating and air conditioning system that utilizes computer technology for the most efficient operation. Every classroom space, with only a few exceptions, has exterior windows with rooms designed to harvest daylight to save electricity. The overwhelming consensus has been that people like the common sense design of the building. The building incorporates some of the architectural artifacts from the 1923 structure. The building has been described as very classy without overindulgence with respect to grand entrance ways or containing any nonfunctional
The Living Legacy of Newton Local School
Newton Local Schools Building Project Completed
The Newton Local School District has a wonderful legacy of alumnus becoming leaders in their communities and beyond. Some of the more notable accomplishments among the ranks of Newton graduates or staff members is the invention of Teflon in 1949 (Roy J. Plunkett, Ph.D., class of 1927); two recent music educators named Teacher of the Year (Don Jenkins 2002 and George Edge 2007); and open heart surgery performed on former vice president of the United States Dick Cheney (Dr. Wesley Hiser, M.D., class of 1957). During the 133 years that Newton has graduated students, the school has produced more than its proportional share of doctors, lawyers, teachers and other distinguished professionals. More importantly, Newton has helped mold just about every one of its graduates into hardworking, honest, ethical community members who are grounded in common sense and care for their friends and neighbors as if they are family. It is more than symbolic
The project started with bond issue/ financial planning in September 2006. After independent assessments were conducted on our old building, the Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC) studied those assessments and made a recommendation to the district to build a new K-12 building. It was determined that a new building to meet the needs of the district would cost $17.4 million with 63 percent of the funds, or nearly $11 million, provided by the state. A 9.46 mill bond issue was placed on the November 2007 ballot. The voters approved that bond issue and project planning began early in 2008. Fanning Howey was selected as the architect, Bovis Lend Lease as the construction manager and Humble Construction as the general contractor. A ground breaking ceremony was held in March 2009, and a dedication ceremony was held in August 2010. The Newton K-12 building contains more than 87,000-square-feet of new CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 space, along with 33,000-
Progress 2012 • Page 11
Newton CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10
tem. Athletic event lighting has been installed on the softball and soccer space for appearance fields. Newton’s outdoor sake. Both the interior facilities now offer our stuand the exterior of the dent athletes the opportufacility are atheistically nities that other quality pleasing. A history wall venues at other schools has been included in the provide for their students. main hallway to emphasize that Newton is proud Our facilities, while still of its past, but has moved modest, can be a source of pride for our community. forward so that the stuIt is worthy to note that dents can experience a nearly all of the additional 21st century education. This can be accomplished site work was completed much more efficiently with by using state co-funds or the modern facilities that earnings from investment proceeds. Newton can now provide With only a handful of for students. open punch list items to As is usually the case address, it appears that with large construction the project will be comprojects, there have been pleted with a balance of minor issues that needed addressed during the past $350,000 remaining in the project construction fund. 18 months. Although many would have thought Sixty-three percent of the project was completed these funds will be returned to the Ohio before moving in to the Schools Facilities building in August 2010, Commission. The remainfinishing details to the der will be returned localbuilding have been ongoly. The remainder may be ing and are slowly, but used for retiring debt servsurely, winding down. ice. There have been numerous upgrades or new construction for Newton Newton’s exterior faciliEducational ties. A new bus barn and new storage barn has been Programming constructed within the Newton has offered last year. Irrigation has been installed on the base- preschool education to disball and soccer fields. The trict parents for the past five years. Parents with soccer facility now children ages 3 to 5 years includes stadium-style bleachers and a press box old are encouraged to with a public address sys- explore the offerings of
this all-day, every-day program. Newton is committed to offering a preschool program in an effort to partner with parents to ensure that all children are ready for kindergarten. A good preschool prepares students to be both academically and socially mature. There is a mountain of evidence that shows when students begin kindergarten ready to learn, it will benefit them throughout their elementary and secondary schooling. The Newton Preschool can accurately claim to have the highest preschool student assessment scores in letter recognition, picturing naming, rhyming, and kindergarten readiness of any public or private preschool in the Miami County area. Newton now offers five courses for college credit through a partnership with Indiana University. Newton stands ready to be a leader in transitioning to a modern educational programming model for secondary education. The traditional model of students earning high school credits only while sitting in a classroom completing assignments given by a teacher are slowly disappearing. More common today is a model that allows students to earn dual credits
(high school and college) during their high school experience, which Newton offers. Newton is preparing for the future when credits may be earned through a variety of opportunities. Those opportunities may include “blended” learning. Blended learning includes traditional courses, on-line courses, computer directed courses and flexible credits earned through qualifying life experiences (i.e. extended foreign trips, etc.). Blended learning opportunities may lead to parents and students tailoring their education to meet their very specific needs. However, such educational experience should also be accompanied by a wellrounded offering of the arts. Newton is positioning itself to be a leader in offering this type of 21st century educational programing to its students as new models for teaching and learning evolve.
Newton Academic Progress for All Students Newton distinguished itself academically as not only one of the best schools the Miami County, but in the Miami Valley. There is ample data to support this statement. During the 2010-2011 school year,
Newton students had the highest passage rate on nine of the 19 grade level assessments. In comparison to all Miami County schools, Newton students had the second highest grade level scores on assessments given in grades third through sixth, the highest grade level scores on assessments given in grades seven and eight, and the third highest grade level scores on the Ohio Graduation Test given in grade 10. Perhaps the most impressive data that indicates that students are achieving at the highest level is that Newton ranked first in Miami County as a composite of all test given in grades three through 10. In addition, Newton had the second highest performance index score in Miami County of 104.2, another indicator that Newton students achieve at very high levels. The performance index score of 104.2 ranks as eighth among 64 area schools. Newton ranks in the top 10 percent of all schools in the state when performance index and per pupil expenditures are considered. In addition, Newton students annually score better than the national average on the ACT.
Newton Financial
Position Sound The Newton School District’s financial position is sound. Many districts find that they usually deficit spend in the month of December and sometimes in January prior to receiving income and property tax revenue. Tax revenue will begin to flow to the district in February and March. The district will then be operating in the black for the fiscal year. Newton personnel cost (salaries) are 3.09 percent less than last year. Total expenditures are down 10.74 percent as compared to last year. Total revenue is up by 0.88 percent. The financial data at this time indicates that we will do better than the projects stated in the Newton Five Year Forecast, which is required and posted by the Ohio Department of Education. Newton is very fortunate to have a financial picture that is much better than the vast majority of Ohio public school districts. This favorable financial position is a result of outstanding community support and dedicated teachers whose commitment to serving the children is second to none.
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Progress 2012 • Page 12
Many new faces at Covington schools BY JENNIFER RUNYON The district will revisStaff Writer it the idea of a building project with the Ohio COVINGTON — The School Facilities 2011-12 school year Commission. According marked a year of to Larson, “more commuchanges for Covington nity meetings will be Exempted Village held and a game plan Schools. The district will be determined in the started the year off with next few months.” a new superintendent, as Wile the district’s well as new high school, facilities are uncertain, middle school and eleone new addition is defimentary school princinitely coming to pals. Covington. Each school “It’s really been a will be using Public great year. I think every- School Works to establish body agrees, we’re hava consistent behavior ing a great year in each management system disbuilding. I give so much trict wide. The program credit to those in the allows for problems, such positions last year, as bullying, to be reportmyself excluded, but they ed online anonymously. allowed us to have a It also establishes a really smooth transition,” record that stays with Superintendent David the student throughout Larson said. Larson was his entire time at the the middle school princi- district. This record pal last year. shows the consequence The transitions may that was given when have been smooth, but that student broke a one major problem still rule. This way, if that faces the district — facil- rule is broken again, the ity needs. staff member can do “There isn’t a day that something different to goes by that we don’t prevent the problem have a discussion about from happening again. what we need to do for Principals will begin our facilities,” Larson using the program in the said, adding, “We need to spring. All teachers will address the concerns of be trained on it next operating three buildschool year. ings.” The program also
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Spc Logan Adams, center, presents a flag that was flown over his units’ base in Afghanistan to Dianne Hartmann, seventh and eighth grade science teacher and principal Josh Long during a ceremony at Covington Middle School. rewards for good behavior. If a staff member sees a child doing something positive, he can enter this into the sys-
tem and a certificate is printed. This note of good behavior also stays in the student’s record. “It’s part of a bigger
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character education program. It’s about bullying and harassment and intimidation, but also just how to treat each other and take responsibility,” Larson said. Those looking to get a head start on college will be interested to hear the district is looking into concurrent enrollment classes with Urbana University. Through these classes, high school students could take college classes and receive credit for them while meeting their high school credit needs. These cred-
its could then be transferred and used where the student attends college giving a head start to the college career. Larson said it is not yet known what classes would be offered for concurrent enrollment. Covington also is looking into virtual education options. These options would allow a student to take online classes and receive credit for graduation. Larson said students with unique situations may benefit from virtual options.
Progress 2012 • Page 13
Troy Christian adds new programs BY TROY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
At TC, students can earn up to 45 semester credit hours on the high school Troy Christian Schools campus. has successfully added an “Troy Christian teachinfant care program, ers are qualified to teach updated technology for college courses right on 21st century learning, our campus,” stated increased the on-campus Jeanne Ward, assistant Early College Program superintendent. and provided new oppor“Not only do we have a tunities for leadership — great number of courses all since the 2011-2012 for our students to choose school year began. from, but they can stay Future plans are connected with their high equally exciting for Troy school while they are Christian, as the school earning college credits.” moves to provide students TC’s PSEOP and Dual with digital books, Enrollment courses are improved nutritional and offered through Urbana wellness opportunities University. Course selecand an ever-growing Dual tion includes: Wellness Enrollment and Post and Health, Biology Secondary Enrollment (Botany), American Options Program. Government, Western Troy Christian, which provides quality educational for students ages infant-12th grade with age-appropriate curriculum, currently is enrolling all age groups. While TC focuses on excellence in academics, the school places great emphasis on servant leadership and spiritual development. “At Troy Christian, our mission is to uphold God’s truth as we assist parents in the education of their children’s minds and the transformation of their hearts,” said Dr. Wilber. “While we provide the academic excellence students need to compete in today’s world, we also want to prepare their hearts to be leaders. That involves character, and it we give opportunities for students to develop the kind of character that comes from the heart.” In the past year, sever2255365 al new Early College Options have been added.
Civilzation II, Basics of Composition, Intermediate Composition, Physics, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, General Psychology, General Anatomy and Physiology 1 and Basics of Literature. The emphasis on leadership at Troy Christian is intentional and relevant. Led by Mr. Scott Smith, director of student leadership, the school’s program includes: • Students who plan and lead based on their passions: two students promoted an awareness in human trafficking, a student planned a 12-hour prayer and worship day; a clean water initiative was started; praise team is
student led. • Student council mentoring and self-leadership • “Break Through,” a leadership mentoring community for students in grades seventh through 12th • Student-led small group Bible studies on “Flipped Fridays.” • Mentoring student athletic leaders through ALI (Athletic Leadership Initiative) • sixth grade mission trip • Reading Buddies • Students serve the community through Hike ‘n Serve, a day of service and prayer • Students lead community and school programs, such as Veterans
Day Chapel, National Day of Prayer, Celebration of Life Chapel, and more. The spiritual development at TC is designed to provide sound Biblical teachings in Bible classes and chapels that challenge students to grow in their faith and relationship with Christ. The school’s special programs and athletics allow students a variety of extracurricular activities in which to participate. At the elementary, students find opportunities to be involved in student council, after school enrichment classes (including LEGO Robotics), athletics, choral and band groups, speech,
chapel presentations, missions, service projects, academic competitions and leadership training. Athletics include baseball, basketball, cheerleading and wrestling. At the junior high and high school level, students can get involved in student council, athletics, choral and band groups, speech, musical, chapel presentations, missions, service projects, academic competitions, yearbook, Science/History Fair, National Honor Society, French Club, Art Club, Drama Club and Leadership training. Athletics include baseball, basketball,
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Progress 2012 • Page 14
Troy Christian
Lehman ranked amongst top schools
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 cheerleading, cross-country, football, golf, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, track, volleyball and wrestling. The technology at both the elementary and junior high/high school is constantly evolving in an effort to keep current technology in the hands of the students and teachers. Nearly every classroom has a SMART Board, and net books have been added. Juniors and seniors all have net books, while TC’s fifth and sixth-grade students just received 25 net books for their use. Fundraisers, grants and individual donors are helping keep up with the rapidly changing needs of technology. Troy Christian Schools is a college preparatory, inter-denominational Christian school. We are a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). The school was founded in 1980 and became chartered in 1982 by the state of Ohio as a K-8 elementary school. In the fall of 2001, Troy Christian Schools Inc. became chartered by the State of Ohio as an 18-month through 12th grade school. In 2011, the school became licensed to care for infants in their newly renovated, modern infant-care facility. Troy Christians enrollment is 180 for Early Childhood, 269 for K-6, and 334 for 7-12. We have students from 31 different school districts and 170 different churches. For more information, contact the school office at 339-5692, or visit our website at www.troychristianschools.org.
SIDNEY — The year just ended was not very different from the one that preceded it. The global economic downturn, coupled with additional unfunded mandates from the General Assembly, provided for an even tighter budget. Nonetheless, Lehman staff continued to provide educational opportunities for students and the school remained ranked among the best in the state. What follows is a quick review of highlights from the past year. Lehman Catholic was again ranked by Gerber Analytics, LLC., as one of the region’s best non-public schools. Each of Ohio’s 1,018 state-chartered high schools are ranked based upon student performance on the Ohio Graduation Tests. Lehman Catholic has been ranked as one of Ohio’s best high schools. Mathematics teacher and 1984 Lehman grad Melissa Safreed was named the Harrison Family Teacher of the Year. Selected by the school’s faculty, Safreed received a $1,000 cash award. The award was provided by the family of Stanley Harrison, founder of Barclays Clothiers in Piqua. Lehman’s Advanced Placement Chemistry Class participated in the University of Waterloo Periodic Table Project. The class designed original artwork and created a tile for the element Americium as part of a worldwide celebra-
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Lehman English Department Chair Barbara Saluke reviews Shakespeare with Meghan Earhart of Piqua, Sean Looney of Troy and Matt Ulrich of Sidney. their advisers Mike and Kelly Staudt, Chaplain Father Jason Bedel and math teacher Melissa Safreed. The annual March for Life commemorates the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision in 1973. The Lehman Pro-Lifeguards again erected 3,600 white crosses in the school’s yard, each one representing one of the abortions that takes place each day in the United States.
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tion of the International Year of Chemistry. One of a handful of high schools to participate in an effort that included colleges and universities around the world, the finished Periodic Table has been displayed at chemical education conferences and museums worldwide. Thirty-three students participated in the Right to Life March in Washington, D.C. They were accompanied by
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The annual project helps to raise awareness of the more than 50,000,000 babies that have been killed in the United States since 1973. Lehman Catholic’s Science Department again received the Ohio Academy of Science Governor’s Award for Excellence in Youth Science Opportunities. In addition to
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Progress 2012 • Page 15
Lehman the department’s award, science teachers Alan Schulze, Tracy Hall and Sister Ginny Scherer, SC. also received Governor’s Awards. The Lehman Catholic Science Department has won this award every year since 1990. Sixty seniors received diplomas in May. Fifty of them chose to continue their educations at colleges and universities. An unprecedented 10 made the decision to join the military. The class of 2011 was offered more than $2.4 million in scholarships and grants (or about $40,000 per student). Nine of the grads were inducted into the school’s Academic Hall of Fame. Induction is open to the valedictorian, salutatorian, students who earn a perfect 4.0 (no grade below an A on their final transcript), and students recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Lehman was named a Community Blood Center Honor School for hosting two blood drives during the year and reaching the pre-set collection goals. Lehman students and staff donated 119 units of blood. The second of the drives was conducted in memory of radio personality and 1977 graduate Steve Kerrigan, who died after a long fight against cancer. Lehman Catholic students continued to be involved within the greater community. Students can wear jeans on a day designated each month by paying $3. More than $6,000 was raised during the year and the funds are donat-
ed to local and national charitable causes. Receiving donations in 2011 were St. Patrick’s Soup Kitchen, the Bethany Center, Holy Angels Soup Kitchen, Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Saint Labre Indian School, Covenant House, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Miami County Dental Clinic, Elizabeth New Life Center, the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Mount Saint Mary Seminary of the West. Students also participated in the Relay for Life, raising more than $3,000 for that cause, collected more than 400 coats for the Miami County Sheriff’s Operation Cover-up and donated several hundred cans of food for the local soup kitchens. Community service is also an important component of a Lehman Catholic education. More than 95 percent of the students volunteer time to benefit a variety of organizations, including Big Buddies, Dorothy Love, Eagle’s Wings Therapeutic Riding Center, tutoring in Sidney’s public elementary school, Fairhaven and the local soup kitchens. The school’s storied athletic tradition continued. The volleyball team won their 20th consecutive district championship, the baseball team advanced to the regional finals, and Gretchen Walter, currently running track for the Miami Redhawks, won individual state titles in the 100 and 400 meter events. Retired teacher Gail Brandewie, 1968 graduate Dr. Kent Caserta and
long-time supporter Leo Steinke were inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame. The ceremony, sponsored by the school’s alumni association, was held in August. Lehman scheduled our North Central/Ohio Catholic School Accrediting Association Internal Review. Following a period of internal review and selfstudy, Lehman Catholic will host an External Review Team as part of the accreditation process. The team will review the School Improvement Plan in which the teachers and staff have formulated goals for the coming five year period and make recommendations. The school is accredited by the Ohio Catholic
School Accrediting Association and the North Central Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement. The Archdiocese of Cincinnati continued to define a unified vision for the future of Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. The plan, expected to be completed in 2012, will provide the blueprint for education in the coming years. Lehman hosted one of the visioning sessions. As the economy continues to slowly improve, we look forward to 2012. The year will provide each of us to grow in our STAFF FILE PHOTO/MIKE ULLERY love for neighbor and serve others in Christian Lehman continued its long tradition of volleyball success this season. charity.
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Progress 2012 • Page 16
Piqua Catholic celebrating 25 years For Ohio Community Media ditions is at the center of the school’s heart. PIQUA — Piqua “Much of our success Catholic School is celecan be attributed to our brating 25 years of out- teachers,” said school standing academic principal Sister Mary excellence and achieve- Alice Haithcoat. “It is ment. In 1987, St. more than a profession Boniface and St. Mary for them. It is a dedicaSchools signed an agree- tion to their faith and a ment to merge and cre- service to God.” ate what is now Piqua First grade teacher Catholic School. The Ellen Grieshop said the school serves students best part about teaching in all-day kindergarten at Piqua Catholic School through eighth grade. “is my freedom to share The goal to provide my love of Jesus with students with opportumy students. That is the nities to perform their greatest incentive!” personal best and devel- Grieshop said she can’t op life skills remains the imagine teaching in any same. The mission to other place. instill, maintain and It is a passion that Piqua Catholic is celebrating 25 years of service this year. strengthen Catholic tra- resonates with her colleagues who average 25 with grade appropriate years of teaching experi- prayers, are helping families work together ence with much of that to further strengthen time spent at Piqua that connection. This Catholic. Though they could be earning higher faith formation challenges students to salaries in public improve the world. With schools, the teachers that deepening convicchoose to stay. tion, service to others is Fifth grade teacher Lori Williams says out- on the rise as students experience the benefits standing parental supof giving back to the t u o port and the never-endb Ask A community. pecials, S e ing dedication of her coc n a Fin Months 8 4 r fo workers makes her deci0% “Reaching out is a ths r 60 Mon 2.99% fo sion to teach at Piqua way of life for our stuCatholic easy. “The dents,” said Sister Mary chance to share my reli- Alice. “Children experigion with children and ence the joy of using see them grow in their their time and talents faith” can’t be duplicat- for the good of others.” Home of the ed elsewhere. Last year’s win of a Grasshopper Mower Piqua Catholic School $50,000 Pepsi Refresh is making great strides Grant and outstanding with its rich, cherished community support, tradition of educating paid for a new gym floor the spirit. By exposing and fitness room with young people to their youth-friendly equip19161 Kentner Rd. 10120 W. Versailles Rd. faith daily and a strong ment. “It helps to fulfill Botkins, OH 45306 Covington, OH 45318 values system, students our obligation to our 937-693-3848 937-526-4851 are growing in their students to educate 800-646-1091 800-860-4851 relationship with God. them physically,” said 2255523 Family prayer books, physical education
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teacher Pam Canady. Building the strength and health of young people “is extremely important.” The newly implemented before and after school fitness programs are “very popular and well attended,” Canady said. “We continue to build on our successes,” Sister Mary Alice said. The new before/after school program is running smoothly. A committee is conducting a pre-school feasibility study. Another group is working on enhancing technology. “We want to keep pace with parents’ expectations.” “We are proud of what we have to offer at Piqua Catholic,” Sister Mary Alice said. “We want others to see and experience Piqua Catholic’s academic excellence and faith formation. We look forward to another 25 years.”
Progress 2012 • Page 17
STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER
The Bethel marching band received a Superior rating at the Ohio State marching band finals.
Bethel looks forward to 2012 their seventh grade matheBY LARRY SMITH Bethel Local Superintendent matics test. Otherwise, their percentage of student BRANDT — As 2012 scores were between two to dawns, Bethel Local 20 percent higher than the Schools has a lot of state standard. achievements and factors Their attendance rate to celebrate. was 95.7 percent, and Its 900 students benefit graduate rate was at 96.5 from a small, close-knit percent. Both of these are community that takes above the state standard. pride in its school and staff On a scale of one to 120, that focuses on academic the performance index was excellence. 100.2, which is in the Bethel has once again above average range. received an Excellent ratStudent performance ing from the Ohio has shown steady growth Department of Education over the past three years. for the 2010–2011 academic school year. On the Ohio Bethel High Department of Education Some of the many annual report card, Bethel accomplishments of the Local Schools has been high school this year classified as an Excellent School District as a result include the Bethel High School Academic Teams’ of meeting 25 of the 26 performance. They made a state indicators for effecfirst place finish in the tive schools and meeting the performance standards CBC League and second for annual yearly progress place finish in the Miami, Darke and Preble Counties and value-added growth. The indicators measure league competition. Bethel senior Liana reading, mathematics and Carsner has been named other subjects for third as a National Merit through 11th grade stuScholarship finalist. dents. The only subject Bethel marching band Bethel acheived less than the state standard was in once again received a
Superior rating at the Ohio State marching band finals — one of almost eight Superior awards they’ve earned over the past 10 years.
Bethel Elementary Bethel Elementary focuses on academic success for all students, including both special needs and gifted programs. Elementary students also participate in an accelerated reading program that encourages children to read. Over the past five years since this program began, Bethel students have recorded reading more than 50,000 books above and beyond the course requirements. The elementary program also focuses on music and the visual and performing arts. Their efforts to go outside the box can be seen in the Veterans Day assembly and special Christmas concert, “A Pirate’s Christmas.”
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Progress 2012 • Page 18
After three decades, Troy gets new football coach BY DAVID FONG Executive Editor fong@tdnpublishing.com TROY — When it comes to replacing a legend, Scot Brewer sees far more positives than pitfalls. “I think it’s definitely a challenge replacing someone like Steve Nolan — but at the same time, he also left me in a great position,” Brewer said. “We’ve got a lot of talent coming back and I am taking over a great program that he built. I really don’t see any negatives — I only see the positive side of things.” In December, Troy High School Principal Ron Phillis and Troy Athletic Director Jeff Sakal announced they had
selected Brewer to be the next Troy football coach. Brewer will replace Nolan, who retired last November after 28 years as Troy’s coach. “I am extremely pleased to recommend Coach Brewer to become our next football coach,” Sakal said. “Scot has a great passion and love for the game and for coaching. He is a highly respected member of the Troy community and our football family. Coach Brewer is a terrific coach and will be a great ambassador and leader for our football program.” For Brewer, coaching at Troy is the culmination of a dream two decades in the making. Brewer was a three-year starter at running back for the Trojans, rushing for more than
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Scot Brewer (center) is the new Troy football coach, replacing Steve Nolan, who retired after 28 years leading the Trojans.
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1,000 yards as a senior in 1993. He served as a volunteer running backs coach for Troy in 1996 and was the offensive coordinator for the Troy freshman team in 1997. From 1998-2004, he made two coaching stops at Columbus high schools, while earning degrees in history and psychology from The Ohio State University. He was the strength and conditioning coach at Thomas Worthington High School and the defensive backs coach and defensive coordinator at Saint Charles High School. In 2005, he returned to Troy to coach outside linebackers. In 2007, he became
the defensive coordinator. Brewer — who resides in Troy with his wife, Amanda, and three daughters, Madison, Izzy and Payton — teaches social studies at Troy High School. “This is a dream come true for me,” Brewer said. “Going back to 1996 when I first started helping Steve, I’ve known this is what I wanted to do. Being at other places and seeing how other programs work around the state gave me some perspective. I’ve always known this is it — this is the place I wanted to be.” Nolan — who won more than 200 games, eight league championships and made 11 playoff appear-
ances as head coach of the Trojans — said he expects big things from his former assistant. “There’s no doubt in my mind Scot will do an outstanding job,” Nolan said. “He’s a hard worker who cares about the kids. Those are the two most important things you look for in a football coach.” Brewer has hit the ground running. His staff is in place and he’s already met with his players to discuss off-season workouts and program expectations. “Obviously we’ll take a lot of what Steve did and use it here, because it was successful,” Brewer said. “But don’t expect it to be
exactly the way it was. It’s my program now and I’ve got to put my print on it. I’ve got to be Scot Brewer, because I can’t be anyone else. Some people may see that as difficult — I just see it as being myself.” There is one thing Brewer said he doesn’t expect to change in the transition from Nolan to himself. “It will still be the same philosophy around here that it was under Steve — success doesn’t come in wins and losses, even though he had 200 wins — success comes from building kids into good people. That’s something that will never change.”
Progress 2012 • Page 19
Physical changes in store at UVMC Staff Report
consultation room. A kiosk planned for the library will allow patients and families to look up disease-specific information, if desired. The new Cancer Care Center has been created to reflect a natural environment theme with looks of wood and bamboo. “When they walk in the door, we want them to feel warm, invited and take care of all needs — physical, spiritual and emotional,� Heath said. Those visiting UVMC also will find work under way on a new look in the hospital lobby. Construction has begun on a new UVMC gift shop. The former shop was closed in January with a planned grand opening of the new gift shop in the same location, this spring. A temporary gift shop is open at the back of the lobby 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays. Also coming to the lobby is a coffee shop
to be operated by Winans Chocolates and Coffee. Outside of its facilities, UVMC continues to expand upon its partner-
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TROY — Physical changes at the Upper Valley Medical Center including a Cancer Care Center expansion and lobby renovations highlight progress being made in facilities during 2012. UVMC also is moving forward with its community partnership efforts with added commitment to the Health Partners Free Clinic and has introduced two internal projects focused on enhanced patient safety and quality. The largest project under way at UVMC is the expansion of the Cancer Care Center. Construction of the center’s second phase is scheduled for completion this spring with a public open house being planned for late April. The expansion’s first phase involved remodeling the center’s lower level home to accommodate a second linear accelerator for cancer radiation therapy treatments. That area was unveiled last spring. The second phase includes a new main level entry dedicated to the Cancer Care Center along with individual infusion rooms with floor to ceiling windows overlooking a healing garden. “We’ve tried to think of the full aspect of treatment and planning, with the patient in mind. I am very, very excited about the individual rooms for patients,� said Jean Heath, Cancer Care Center director. The new entry will take patients and families to a waiting room, hospitality area and library. There also will be a multi-purpose therapy room and
the clinic that last year worked with 1,200 individuals and provided more than 18,000 medications to county residents. “The assistance Health Partners offers makes a real difference in people’s lives and is an important PROVIDED IMAGE complement to our health This rendercare system. We very ing shows the much value our collaboraplans for indi- tive relationship with vidual patient them, especially in this era of health care reform infusion rooms in the and growing challenges,� UVMC Cancer said Tom Parker, UVMC president and CEO. Care Center Internally, UVMC is Expansion rolling out two initiatives Phase II projfocused on enhanced ect. The new patient safety and quality. Cancer Care These include daily Center will check-in meetings and open this weekly rounding by hospiyear. tal leadership to help improve two-way commuPartners’ efforts in addiship with the Health nication among caregivers tion to the $20,000 donat- and care-giving teams. Partners Free Clinic of ed over the previous two Miami County. For more information years. UVMC encourages UVMC recently conon UVMC, visit tributed $50,000 to Health employee volunteers for www.UVMC.com.
Progress 2012 • Page 20
STAFF FILE PHOTO/ANTHONY WEBER
Chris Cook embraces his daughter Kennedi while getting a flu shot last year with her twin sister, Preslee, at the Miami County Public Health department.
New name, same commitment to service to create a national identity to help people — no matter where they’re at.” The new logo helps epitmenting new phone and fax omize the health departnumbers. ment’s commitment to “pro“It really is kind of a way mote a healthier communito identify us,” Miami ty by enhancing health poliCounty Health cies, improving the environCommissioner Chris Cook ment and lifestyle choices, said of the new logo, and being the source of explaining how the name information for better change was timed to coinhealth.” cide with a nationwide Emblazoned with a stylmovement to raise awareized plus on a three-sided ness about local health shield, the new logo prodepartments. motes the three major “The national push by tenets of public health — NACCHO (National Association of County and prevent, promote and proCity Health Officials) was tect.
Health district renamed Miami County Public Health BY JIM DAVIS Staff Writer davis@tdnpublishing.com The name has changed, but officials at the newlydubbed Miami County Public Health ensure county residents that the department’s dedication to promoting a healthy community won’t waver. Formerly known as the Miami County Health District, the department adopted a new, stylized logo Feb. 1, in addition to imple-
Outlined in blue, the plus is centered on khakicolored shield — reminiscent of the khaki and blue worn by United States Public Health Service uniformed officers. “One of the things we’re doing with the logo is we have a couple of company cars with magnetic logos on them, and we received a small grant to provide some shirts and fleece’s with the logo on them, too, so we’re starting slow.” So far, Cook said the phone number change doesn’t appear to have caused any problems.
“We haven’t had any complaints at all,” he said. “The phones have been ringing just as they normally would, and we have a lot of people who have our fax number already programmed.” Cook said he doesn’t think it will take long for the general public to embrace the new name. “Everyone has a job to do, and we go about our day-in and day-out with humble dedication to serve all of the citizens of Miami County,” he said. “I hope that over time, the public will come to rec-
ognize public health in the same way that it recognizes police, fire, EMS and other services that protect and respond to meet the community’s health and safety needs.” Located at 510 W. Water St. in Troy, the Miami County Public Health Office can be contacted by phone at 573-3500; by fax at 573-3501; or by email at info@miamicountyhealth.net. For more information about Miami County Public Health or any of its services, visit online at www.miamicountyhealth.ne t.