Eagle Nation | Winter 2023

EAGLENation

The Plain Local Schools Community Magazine

Kindergarten in Plain

We sat down with the Kindergarten teaching team from our six Plain Local elementary schools to learn more about what makes teaching our littlest learners so special. Page 4

Winter

2023

Eagle Nation magazine is published by Plain Local Schools. It is distributed free of charge to community residents, businesses and Plain Local staff. The purpose of Eagle Nation magazine is to provide our readers information about life and learning in the Greater Plain Township community. It is not intended to be a public forum.

Editor:

Mary Beddell, Plain Local Public Relations Director

Eagle Nation

Plain Local Schools

901 44th Street NW Canton, Ohio 44709

Office: 330-492-3500

Fax: 330-493-5542

Questions, comments or advertising regarding Eagle Nation can be emailed to beddellm@plainlocal.org. Federal Law prohibits Eagle Nation from carrying ads containing offers of insurance policies, credit cards and travel promotions. The Plain Local Schools Board of Education reserves the right to reject any press release or advertisement based on content.

Eagle Nation designs are trademarks of Plain Local Schools. All advertising art and editorial content is copyright protected and cannot be used without express written permission. The publisher and its affiliates are not liable for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for the ad.

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY

The Plain Local School District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability or age with respect to employment or educational programs and opportunities to students.

Anti-Harassment Compliance Officer, Darci Knight 330-492-3500.

Substitutes needed

Plain Local Schools is always looking for community members who are willing to work in our schools in substitute roles. Substitute positions are available in all departments (classroom, custodial, bus, aide, cafeteria, etc.)!

If you are interested in learning more about how to become a substitute in Plain Local, email Darci Knight at knightd@plainlocal.org or call 330-492-3500.

Dear Community,

Welcome to 2023! I can hardly believe that we are already halfway done with the 2022-2023 school year. I am excited to share with our readers some of the incredible work that is being done in our district. In 2019, I sought out to meet with parents, community members, students and local business owners as we started a new strategic plan for Plain Local Schools… we all know what happened at the close of 2019 and the start of 2020. With the whole world turned upside down it would have been easy to put our strategic plan on the shelf and forget about it. But in Plain Local we did what we always do, we persevered. There are seven key goals that we are working on each and every day to push forward as a school district. They are: Academic Achievement, Communication & Community Integration, Facilities/Safety & Security, Climate, Culture & Wellness, Diversity, Finances, and Business Operations/Human Resources. I hope you take some time to review the update on page 25 that outlines some achievements that have been driven by our strategic plan.

We have amazing teachers, dedicated staff, unbelievable students and a supportive community here in Plain Local. I am proud each and every day to serve you and I am proud to share with you all that we have to be proud of here in Plain Local.

Dear Community,

It is winter in Ohio, that means one thing…the possibility of the ever-coveted snow day! The behind the scenes of a snow day for someone in my role means lots of early morning conversations with our Superintendent. If the decision to cancel school is made, we have to work swiftly to get the message out to all staff and students through our website, social media, mass calling system and various local news stations. Winter also means, that spring is on the horizon! One of my favorite quotes is “No matter how long Winter is, Spring is sure to follow!” In Plain Local Schools the start of spring means we are hard at work making plans for the next school year. One of my favorite spring events is our annual Kindergarten Registration Fair. Seeing all of our new Little Eagles get their first taste of school as they register for Kindergarten is such a fun and special day. Because of this, we chose to shine a light on our Kindergarten team for this issue of Eagle Nation Magazine. Getting all of the Kindergarten teachers together in the school district for a photo shoot was so fun! They set the foundation for our littlest learners and they have the best stories! I want to offer a huge thank you to Barr Elementary and Miss Mathieu for allowing us to take photos in her classroom for this issue. I also need to extend a public thank you to our incredible GlenOak photography teacher, Jeannene Mathis-Bertosa, and senior photography student Sarah Zwick for lending their amazing talents to this issue.

Brent May Superintendent

I hope you enjoy learning more about Kindergarten in Plain! I also hope to meet lots of new Little Eagles on April 1 during our 2023 Kindergarten Registration Fair. More information on page 7.

Director of Public Relations

KINDERGARTEN in Plain

Students first memories of school start in their classrooms. The warmth and love teachers show each and every one of their students helps to inspire lifelong learners and sets students up for success. Teaching Kindergarten is no walk in the park, but they make it look easy. They teach their students listening, following directions and get to watch them blossom as they become confident learners. We sat down with the Kindergarten teaching team from our six Plain Local elementary schools to learn more about what makes teaching our littlest learners so special.

What is your favorite thing about teaching Kindergarten?

PAM WILZOCH

“The little humans! I love learning about their strengths and weaknesses and what makes them so unique.”

Education: Kent State University and Malone University

Years teaching: 24

Years at Plain Local Schools: 20 School: Taft Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Discovery

JENNA KOCHER

“The growth! Kids start Kindergarten with different academic and social abilities. It’s amazing to meet kids where they are and help each individual grow more confident in their abilities throughout the year.”

Education: Malone University and Bowling Green State University

Years teaching: 10

Years at Plain Local Schools: 8 School: Avondale Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Unpredictable

What is one thing you would tell a new Kindergarten parent to ease their mind?

MEGAN MCCLELLAN

“We are here to love and take care of your child! Plain Local is full of incredible people who will be there for your child (and you!) from the very first day of Kindergarten all the way through graduation day!”

Education: University of Dayton and Marygrove College

Years teaching: 23

Years at Plain Local Schools: 23 School: Frazer Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Energetic

ADAM BLACK

“That everything will be OK! Take time to talk with your children each day about the things they learn at school because it goes by so fast! Cherish each day as these moments tend to fly by and before you know it, you’ll have a first grader!”

Education: University of Akron

Years teaching: 10 Years at Plain Local Schools: 8 School: Barr Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Adventurous

What is one thing you would tell a new student to ease their mind?

COURTNEY KNOPICK

“Even teachers have back-toschool butterflies! I get them every August.”

Education: The University of Findlay and University of Cincinnati

Years teaching: 13

Years at Plain Local Schools: 13 School: Taft Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Growth

What is your favorite thing about Kindergarten students?

TERESA WRIGHT

“My favorite thing about my students is their honesty. They will tell you everything.”

Education: Western Kentucky University and Western Governors University

Years teaching: 3

Years at Plain Local Schools: First year School: Frazer Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Energetic

ROBIN KROSSE

“We have all been new at some point and know how it feels. We will take care of you! And welcome to the coolest grade ever!”

Education: Ashland University and Marygrove College

Years teaching: 19

Years at Plain Local Schools: 18 School: Warstler Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Extraordinary!

ALLYSON DEVAUGHN

“They love school and get excited about every lesson we do. I enjoy getting to know my students and building a long-lasting relationship with them.”

Education: Kent State University

Years teaching: 8

Years at Plain Local Schools: 9 School: Middlebranch Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Inspiring

What is the best or funniest thing a student has ever said to you?

KRISTA JULIAN

“‘I did it!’ - it is the BEST feeling watching your students succeed and feel pride in their accomplishments.”

Education: Malone University

Years teaching: 6

Years at Plain Local Schools: 4 School: Middlebranch Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Transformative

KELSEY HELMKAMP

“One year, I had a student in my class named Anderson. He came to school one morning with a smiley-face drawn on his hand. When I said “Good morning, Anderson,” he held up his hand to me and said, “Call me HANDerson!”

Education: Kent State University

Years teaching: 10

Years at Plain Local Schools: 6 School: Middlebranch Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Magical

What is your favorite lesson or experience your students have during Kindergarten?

DESHIA FRANK

“I really love the fire station field trip. I think it’s amazing that our students get to spend time with some of the people who serve and protect us.”

Education: Ohio State University and Kent State University

Years teaching: 4

Years at Plain Local Schools: 2 School: Barr Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Exciting

If you could tell your past students anything, what would it be?

CAMRYNN BICKEL

“I will always be rooting for you to succeed in life.”

Education: Miami University

Years teaching: 2

Years at Plain Local Schools: 2 School: Warstler Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Exciting

ALEXANDRIA MATHIEU

“We love the 100th day of school. We spend the day dressed as old people, with all things focused on the number 100.”

Education: University of Mount Union and Ashland University

Years teaching: 7

Years at Plain Local Schools: 3 School: Barr Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Rewarding

AMY FINNICUM

“I would tell my past students to continue to follow their dreams! I always remind my students to do their best and be proud of what they have accomplished!”

Education: The Ohio State University

Years teaching: 27

Years at Plain Local Schools: 24 School: Frazer Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Curious

Do you have any advice for someone who wants to get into elementary teaching?

EMILY STROUD

“The same thing I say to my students...work hard, be kind, and have fun!”

Education: Kent State University and Kent State Stark

Years teaching: 13

Years at Plain Local Schools: 13 School: Taft Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Fun!

NIKKI BUDNER

“Don’t get discouraged. You will have great days and not so great days but never forget your ‘why.’”

Education: Hiram College

Years teaching: 1

Years at Plain Local Schools: First year

School: Avondale Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Adventure

What is your favorite thing about the Plain Township community?

CINDY LEIST

“All the opportunities the community provides.”

Education: Muskingum University

Years teaching: 5

Years at Plain Local Schools: 5 School: Middlebranch Elementary

If you could describe Kindergarten in one word, what would it be: Exciting

Now Enrolling!

We are now enrolling the class of 2036! Do you have a child who will be 5 by September 30, 2023? Now is the time to start thinking about registration! Plain Local Schools is hosting a Kindergarten

Registration Fair Saturday, April 1, 2023. Signing up is easy!

Parents can choose how they want to register for the 2023-2024 school year. Visit bit.ly/23plsk or scan the QR code to schedule either an in-person or phone appointment.

Questions? Call us at 330-492-3500.

ALEXANDRA COOKE

“I grew up in this community and always felt a sense of belonging. There are clubs, sports, etc. for every age and family. At Avondale, we are a family of teachers who genuinely care for each other. I am thankful to have such amazing colleagues.”

Education: Bowling Green State University

Years teaching: 1

Years at Plain Local Schools: First year

School: Avondale Elementary

If you could describe

AROUND THE District

Avondale Focuses on Building Strong Readers

Avondale Kindergarteners are benefiting from the work their teachers are doing outside of the classroom. Plain Local teachers are taking part in intensive teacher training in Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling or L.E.T.R.S. All Plain Local elementary teachers are participating in professional development on the Science of Reading and introducing strategies in the classroom with a strong focus on phonics and phonemic awareness. Avondale Elementary principal Jeanne McNeal shared, “Kindergarten students are using tactile strategies to apply their knowledge of letters and sounds to make words using Wiki Sticks. Students are reading, forming words and writing sentences. We have had just over 80 days of Kindergarten and look what they can do!” We look forward to creating strong readers and writers to SOAR into first grade!

Fostering a Culture of Kindergarten Care at Barr

There are many benefits of connecting with students throughout the year and Mrs. Frank takes advantage of these benefits as she takes time to connect with each student every morning in her Kindergarten class. It is Mrs. Frank’s way of preparing for success in order to cultivate a culture of care for one another. As a part of her classroom routine, students gather as they greet each other by name. Mrs. Frank shares that this time is an opportunity for every voice to be heard and an opportunity for social interactions to be strengthened. A discussion prompt is posed to students which gives all students the opportunity to connect with each member of the classroom. This time values the special moments that occur inside and outside of the classroom. Mrs. Frank has noticed an improvement in the social, emotional, and academic success of her students as a result of focusing on the sense of community each day! Students know they belong to something special and that they are valued as unique individuals. Mrs. Frank appreciates how much she learns from each of her students and for the relationships that are formed within her classroom community!

SOARing Behavior is Celebrated at Frazer

Students at Frazer work hard daily to earn “Coar Cash,” from their principal, Mrs. Coar. Students work individually and as a class for SOARing behavior. Students who SOAR show respect, own their choices, act kindly, and are ready to learn. The Positive Behaviors Interventions and Supports committee develops rewards seasonally for students to purchase at the COARner store. Frazer students are encouraged to work together as a team with their classmates to earn and save their cash until they have enough for a reward, which may cost fifty to one hundred dollars. Rewards have included a movie with popcorn, water balloon toss, hot chocolate and extra gym time. Once classes have purchased their reward their cash goes towards a reward for the entire school. Students and staff look forward to these special celebrations of positive student behavior. Keep up the great work, little Eagles; Mrs. Coar is so proud of all you have earned so far this school year.

Glynn Pullin and Brady Mururtes celebrate after winning the balloon toss during their whole class reward for positive behavior.

Mrs. Frank, Kindergarten Teacher, and her students gather each morning to connect with one another in a special way!

Avondale Kindergarten students work on spelling with wiki sticks.

Exploring at Middlebranch

Middlebranch Kindergarten teachers plan activities each day that help their little learners explore the world through their senses. Connecting these experiences to the literacy curriculum is meaningful and helps to deepen the learning.

One such example is how students in Mrs. Helmkamp’s class explored and interacted with the book Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Jr. and John Archambault. In this beloved children’s story, alphabet letters have an adventure by climbing a coconut tree on an island. The accompanying sensory centers included hands-on ways for students to connect their learning back to the book. At one of the stations, students could dig through a bin of rice to find letters. They identified the letter, told a friend the name of the letter and its sound, and then found and colored it in on their activity sheet. In another station, students used kinetic sand and pieces of wood to recreate the island and tree from the story. They had to use their math skills to order the pieces from smallest to largest. A different station allowed students to recreate the sequence of events from the story by having letter tiles climb a repurposed snack tube “coconut tree” in the correct order. The Kindergarteners also strengthened their critical thinking skills at the STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) station in which they used craft sticks, paper towel tubes and letter tiles to balance each side of their created trees. In each station, students made connections from the materials they were using to Chicka

Chicka Boom Boom

When asked about the activities, Mrs. Helmkamp said, “I love bringing learning to life by providing students the opportunity to explore, investigate and discover new skills. Sensory bins give our students a real and tangible way to practice and extend their learning.” But don’t just take her word for it. Luna shared, “I like learning with my hands because I can feel what I am thinking about in my head!”

A Little Spot of Sunshine at Taft!

At Taft Elementary School, students are using books and stuffed character dots to better understand themselves and the world around them. To assist in this, the students are reading A Little Spot of Feelings books, which are stories about little spots that represent different emotions. Through these books, kids learn to identify and label emotions within themselves and others to help regulate their responses. School Counselor Jen Milhoan says, “The students are loving getting to know each character, understanding the attached emotion and discussing how they can personally relate. The Little Spot series inspires and empowers us to be our best selves and plants seeds of sensitivity and empathy for others. A Little Spot of Feelings books are the perfect addition to our social emotional curriculum.” Both the counselor and the teachers are using this language with the students. Mrs. Wilzoch, a Kindergarten teacher, expressed, “My students are able to connect with the emotion words and apply the strategies taught in these adorable books!” The students are able to easily articulate the emotion that goes with each character dot. Daniel Griffiths, a Kindergarten student, shared, “My favorite dot is the green dot. The peaceful dot. I like when our class and I feel peaceful.”

Kindergarten students get daily hands-on learning experiences connected to the reading curriculum. From left to right: Carson Miller, Tommy Cleveland, III, Luna Blauch and Riley McGowan.

Miss Milhoan sits with Kindergarten students to help them become emotion detectives. Students pictured from left to right: Manuella Wells, Alana Hobby, Oliver Maurer, Keirsten Watson, DJ Mosely and Maria Chilel-Bardales.

Warstler is “Write” on the Mark

Stark Parks brought some fun friends to share with the Warstler Kindergarten students that they might find in their backyard. The students got to see a snake, a turtle and an owl. Once the students got to meet these new friends from nature they had an opportunity to draw something they learned about during the Stark Parks visit. The foundational building blocks of student writing includes pictorial representations. As the year progresses the students will begin to add words to their drawings to increase their writing fluency. Thank you to Stark Parks for bringing so many hands-on experiences to our students!

Glenwood Students Blast Off into Space!

The 5th Grade Science Department was excited to welcome back the StarLab to Glenwood Intermediate School. StarLab is a way to learn about science through an inflatable, portable planetarium that comes to the school. Students entered the inflatable planetarium dome and studied the movements of stars, the moon and other celestial objects. Connections were made to our Language Arts curriculum by reading Greek and Native American myths associated with the constellations. This experience was a great way for students to connect learning targets to real-life situations.

Plain Local is lucky to partner with Stark County Educational Service Center which made this experience possible through the “Science and Math on the Move” or SAMM program. SAMM is a program that provides equitable access to modern scientific instruments to be borrowed by trained teachers for use with students in the Stark County ESC member districts. The SAMM Van provides lots of activities to our district throughout the year and across all grade levels. We are so fortunate to have this partnership with the Stark County ESC!

If you are interested in seeing a local planetarium in action, consider visiting the McKinley Museum in Canton, COSI in Columbus or The Museum of Natural History in Cleveland, Ohio. These museums have wonderful exhibits that connect to many 5th grade science and social studies standards.

Students loved being part of this experience and their high engagement was refreshing. We can’t wait to continue our exploration of space!

Oakwood Students Have a World of Opportunities to Explore

Middle school education is geared towards shaping the pathways students take into high school not only for their academic goals, but also in the extracurricular activities they choose to be involved in. At Oakwood, student activities are plentiful and offer students a wide variety of options geared toward their interests. Many of our clubs and organizations also have connections to the classes offered at Oakwood. An example is the French Club and its connection to the French classes run by Mrs. Ersing.

This fall, students were offered two great experiences. Eighth graders finishing their French I credit took part in a fencing lesson. The lesson was overseen by Tom Nagy whose company teaches fencing to schools and individuals. Students were provided all equipment and instruction and were able to put those skills into practice. The Oakwood PTO partnered with Mrs. Ersing to bring in Mr. Nagy at no cost to the students. Also, in November the French Club met to have a cheese tasting evening. Mrs. Ersing brought in a variety of cheeses that students had the opportunity to sample. Students studying French have had the opportunity to have a full immersed experience beyond their regular lessons.

Oakwood clubs and athletics all strive for the very best. All of the fall athletic teams had winning records and boys cross country and girls volleyball teams were Federal League runners-up. Girls cross country team not only won the Stark County championship, but also was the OHSAA middle school runner-up! Currently, winter sports are working hard through their seasons and the performing arts already have their first concerts under their belts. Drama will be putting on the musical Dear Edwina Jr. February 3-4; stay tuned for information on how to get tickets for the show.

Kindergarten student Hunter Magee shares his writing.

8th grade French students explore fencing as a part of their lessons.

5th grade science teachers from L to R: Dave Frederick, Chris Simon, Amy Wise, Theresa Ackman and Nick Hepner.

The GlenOak High School counseling department is on hand to help all of our Eagles soar.

GlenOak High School Students Demonstrate Readiness

Beginning in 2016 the Ohio educational governing body called for a comprehensive set of graduation options that go past the conventional state tests and empower students to show readiness for life after high school. Guided by Each Child, Our Future, Ohio’s strategic plan for education, students in the graduating classes of 2023 and beyond will be mandated to a new graduation requirement known as Diploma Seals.

As in the past, students will complete the required graduating course load of 22 credits as well as pass the mandatory state tests in Algebra I & English II in order to graduate. The Class of 2023 and after will also have to demonstrate a new readiness for their post high school journey by earning two Diploma Seals. The Ohio Department of Education states that “Earning two Diploma Seals will allow them to demonstrate important fundamental and well rounded academic and technical knowledge, professional skills, social and emotional competencies and leadership and reasoning skills. These important sets of knowledge, skills and dispositions are necessary for high school graduates to be successful in the workplace, college, military or other self-sustaining professions.” The new state graduation requirements mandate that students earn two Diploma Seals that are attached or affixed to the student’s diploma and transcript in order to qualify for a high school diploma.

The Class of 2023 must earn a minimum of two of the 12 state defined seals and/or one of the state-defined seals and one locally created seal in order to graduate from high school. State-defined seals include: Military Enlistment Seal, Technology Seal, Industry-

Recognized Credential Seal, Citizenship Seal, OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal, State Seal of Biliteracy, College-Ready Seal, Science Seal and Honors Diploma Seal. More information about the seals can be found at education.ohio.gov or by scanning the QR code above.

If students do not complete two state defined seals, they can earn one state-defined seal and one local seal to meet the Readiness criteria for graduation. GlenOak offers three local seals: Community Service Seal, Fine Arts Seal and Student Engagement Seal.

The GlenOak counseling team works closely with students in teaching them about the seal requirements, tracking their progress, and ensuring they fulfill the requirements in time for graduation. As freshmen and sophomores, all students receive classroom guidance from the counselors to give them an overview of all graduation requirements, including credits, competency (testing), and seals.

Junior year, each student will meet with their counselor individually to review his/her progress towards graduation requirements. A graduation checklist is kept on every student by his/her counselor to track this progress, and it can be shared with parents or students anytime. Senior year, students will once again review graduation requirements during a classroom guidance session, and counselors will meet regularly with any student who is at risk for not graduating on time.

If you would like more information about the Graduation Readiness Requirements of the Diploma Seals, please contact your student’s high school counselor or visit education.ohio.gov.

Growing Our Own

Teachers are essential to students in order to help them build the knowledge and skills they will need for the future. The community needs more of them and the GlenOak Teacher Pathways Program at GlenOak High School is focused on growing more.

Our vision is to prepare informed lifelong leaders and learners who value all people and are ready and willing to share with others. Teaching is a viable and rewarding career and so many Plain Local School students are well-suited for this career!

We are branching out to give high schoolers an overview of the job through work-based experiences and are trying to simultaneously reduce future college debt.

Here’s how… We have several partnerships within the community and Plain Local Schools to allow Teacher Pathways students an authentic hands-on experience.

Senior students observe teachers and help students at our elementary and middle schools. We are so lucky to have teachers such as Mrs. Simon, Mrs. Krosse, Mrs. Teaford, Miss Freda, Mrs. Vonortas, Mrs. Eckelberry, Mrs. Mongiardo, and more hosting our students and sharing good teaching with them. Additionally, we have a great partnership with our preschool venture between the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Stark DD) the Stark County Educational Service Center (ESC), and Plain Local Schools. Mrs. Stahleker and Mrs. Ringer at Taft have been

instrumental in getting junior students in one class period a week in this environment.

All students study the steps required to obtain a teaching license, interview their own teachers about their experiences, and help with special projects and special station activities at the host schools. The students prep materials for elementary classrooms in the GlenOak High School classroom as well as create bulletin boards in the main halls and for specific teachers. In-house partnerships with Ms. Fritsche’s Job Training Coordination Class and Mrs. Levy’s county unit provide even more diverse opportunities for the Teacher Pathways students. Through this program, students get an overview of all the aspects of the job.

The root of any successful venture is a strong foundation and commitment and we have that. When one tours Plain Local Schools, at least one Teacher Pathways graduate can be found in every building and MANY Plain Local graduates are working in each building. Plain Local has made a commitment to interviewing and hiring former students.

In order to help students with the next step, GlenOak Teacher Pathways has developed partnerships with local universities. Four College Credit Plus courses are embedded into the program. Students have the potential to graduate with 12 college credits awarded through Stark State which are transferable to all State of Ohio schools. Likewise, there is an articulated agreement with Walsh and Mount Union to accept the college credits. In

addition, there is a 2+2 venture between Malone and Stark State where students complete two years at Stark State and finish the four year education degree at Malone. This is a very affordable option. GlenOak Teacher Pathways students can have a large portion of the first two years already completed while in high school. Teacher Pathways students are all members of Educator’s Rising and recently participated in a tour of Akron University and the Akron Public Schools Lebron James I Promise School. This unique partnership creates a great opportunity for future Akron University Education students.

Teacher Pathways instructor Beth Winkler shared, “Teacher Pathways is not just for future teachers. This is a great program for students interested in coaching, parks and recreation, social work, counseling, child development, human resources, writing, etc. There is no career choice that would not benefit from the skill set practiced in the program.”

The seeds for growth can already be found among our population. We are looking for those who have always dreamed of teaching, those who want to make a difference, those who want to coach, those who love a subject, those who want to perform, those that are interested in social work, psychology or pediatric medicine. We want them ALL for this program. Come grow with Teacher Pathways!

For more information, contact Mrs. Beth Winkler, winklere@plainlocal.org.

GlenOak High School Teacher Pathways students are getting hands-on experience in the field of teaching.

ARTS SPOTLIGHT: Theater Program

GlenOak High School Musical Theater presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on Friday, February 24 at 7:00 pm and Saturday, February 25 at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm. The cast of 50 GlenOak students will be joined by a children’s chorus of Plain Local elementary students to tell the tale of Joseph the dreamer. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a toe-tapping musical with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber: “Go, Go, Go Joseph, you’re doing fine! You and your dreamcoat ahead of your time!”

Tickets are available at plainlocal.org/arts1/event-tickets or by scanning the QR code.

ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT: Golden Eagles Sign National Letters of Intent

This winter the GlenOak High School Athletic Department celebrated several student athletes who signed scholarship offers to continue their academic and athletic careers at Division One or Two schools. Our student athletes have earned over $500,000 in scholarship money this year!

Natalie Stepanovich signed with Robert Morris University to play volleyball. Tommy Rice signed with the University of Tennessee for cross country. Tesfaye Young will go to the University of Toledo for cross country. Alex Laird will be playing baseball at Bowling Green State University. Luke Senften signed with the University of Findlay for baseball and Gavin Leach signed with Malone University where he will play lacrosse.

Athletic director Scott Garcia shared, “We congratulate all of our student athletes who are moving on to play their sport at the college level. Many hours of hard work in the classroom and in the athletic arena is required to receive these accomplishments.”

We also have several student athletes who will compete at the Division Three level and others who have not made their choices at this time. We will announce those at a later date. Congratulations to all of our GlenOak student athletes!

Members of the Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Cast Back Row: (left to right) Kallie Ludwig, AJ Urban, Mason Andrews, Giovanni Contrucci, Boston Upshaw. Front Row: Malcolm Morgan, Kennedy McGuire, Lindsay Yocum, Quinn Fogarty, Janiya Foster, Victoria Fogarty

Natalie Stepanovich’s parents watch on as she signs her letter of intent with Robert Morris University.

Gavin Leach and his parents celebrate his commitment to Malone University.

COMMUNITY PARTNER SPOTLIGHT:

Stark Library – Plain Community Branch

Name: KATHLEEN CLAY

Title: Branch Manager

Organization: Stark Library

Organization Details: Stark Library offers public library services throughout Stark County. Plain Community Branch serves the people and students of Plain Township in particular.

Involvement with Plain Local Schools: Public Library staff maintain GlenOak High School’s library collection to support curriculum and provide opportunities for leisure reading. The Young Adult Librarian, Todd Schuller, supports high school students and teachers with basic research instruction and access to needed items. The Children’s Librarian, Mary Halley, offers class visits and story times to the elementary schools, as well as teacher units for classroom support. The public library also provides data bases to facilitate student research.

The Stark Library - Plain Community Branch serves the Plain Township community as well as provides an onsite library for students attending GlenOak High School. The branch is open six days a week MondaySaturday. Learn more at starklibrary.org. The Plain Township Community Branch staff includes Kim Ann Pfau, Laura Moses, Melinda Crown, Debbie Leibold, Jodie Hawkins, Todd Schuller, Mary Halley, and Branch Manager Kathy Clay.

What is your favorite part of your job? Helping patrons find just the right book to read.

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Plain Township community (either you personally or your organization)?

The whole staff supports GlenOak High School activities and enjoys seeing the students after school. We also love serving Plain families through programming, story times and readers’ advisory.

What is one thing you wish people knew about your organization or something most people don’t know?

We offer services beyond books, such as fun and educational programming for all ages as well as notary and passport services. Computers and printing services are available for the public.

If you could share one piece of advice to Plain Local students, what would it be? Take advantage of the research opportunities provided by the library, especially the great databases that are available. Don’t hesitate to ask a library staff member for help.

Final thoughts or anything else you would like to share?

Plain is a wonderful community with caring people. Plain Local Schools staff are great people with which to work. The individuals and families who utilize the library form an engaging patron base. The Plain Community Branch Library staff are honored to serve this community.

Above: Stark Library - Plain Community Branch sits on the campus of GlenOak High School and opened in 2006.

Left: Stark Library staff Kathy Clay, Todd Schuller, and Mary Halley at the Plain Community Branch.

What’s Why YOUR ? PLAIN LOCAL SCHOOLS

Our theme for the 2022-2023 school year is “What’s Your Why?” Your “Why” is a statement of purpose that describes why you do the work you do and why you live the lifestyle you do. It is your calling. It is your conviction. It is your mission statement. It is a vision of your life’s work. All of this together makes up your personal “WHY.”

Stay tuned as we share through the 2022-2023 school year examples of “WHY” we do the work we do. In each issue of Eagle Nation magazine we will share WHY statements from our staff, students and community members!

To support the happiness and growth of students through the joy of making, and learning about, music!

I love being a teacher because I love teaching and making a difference in my students’ learning needs!

I hope to help students feel loved and valued. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to engage with families in the district and to be a resource for them.

To make a difference in the lives of my students, help them strive for success and set them up for a bright future!

Ensure a safe and clean environment for all staff and students. I strive to help the Glenwood team have the best day every day.

In my 31 years teaching at Plain Local my WHY has been consistent and simple. I want to make a difference with students each day. Whether it is a smile, teaching a standard, a hi-five, or just listening, making a difference each day is the goal. This quote I have read sums it up...”Kids won’t remember the standards you teach but they will remember the way you made them feel.”

Isaac Temelkoff Elementary Music Teacher at Barr and Frazer

Erika Stewart Family Engagement Coordinator at Oakwood Middle School

Mariah McCloud First Grade Teacher at Frazer Elementary

Jamey Wooley First Grade Teacher at Middlebranch Elementary

Nicole Kelly American Sign Language Teacher at GlenOak High School

John Phelps Head Custodian at Glenwood Intermediate School

Stark Parks

Stark Parks celebrated volunteer accomplishments in 2022 at the Volunteer Recognition Dinner at the Exploration Gateway at Sippo Lake Park. Community Pride Awards honoring dedicated partners were presented to the Northeast Ohio Orienteering Club for holding public events in park locations throughout NE Ohio, including Sippo Lake Park, Quail Hollow Park, Walborn Reservoir, and Fry Family Park. The Stark County Federation of Conservation Clubs is made up of hunting clubs, firearm clubs, fishing clubs, conservation clubs, parks, and sportsmen who promote ethics in sportsmanship and sponsor conservation education programs.

Rising Star Awards recognize individuals in their first three years of volunteering who make an outstanding contribution. Patrick Cooper of Wadsworth began as a volunteer in 2019 and became very involved at the Wildlife Conservation Center. Lindy Anastis of Canton was applauded for her volunteering in many areas including parkrun, community events, and children’s wildlife and nature programs.

The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Wayne Wellbaum of Canton for making significant and lasting volunteer contributions in 2022. Wellbaum helped in many ways including the Wildlife Conservation Center, Eagle Observation Area at Walborn Reservoir, Pontoon Boat Captain, and taking photographs while on the trails.

A Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Deb Belden of Uniontown. Belden has volunteered at the Wildlife Conservation Center since 2010.

Two retiring Park Board of Commissioners were also presented awards for their years of service. Denise Freeland of Minerva and Patricia Quick of Canton were honored for their terms on the Park Board.

Recognition was also given to several volunteers for a Coral Crochet project that took over 600 hours to create. Volunteers from local library groups created a community crochet art piece to raise awareness of the impact our waterways in Ohio have on coral reefs around the world.

History on the Move

What a year! The Plain Township Historical Society launched a mobile museum, worked with the Plain Township Fire Department Alumni on capturing their history, continued to work with Historic Ridgewood to update their history book, did several community events and even got to meet in person for the whole year. We cannot wait to see where we popup in the community and what we are sharing in 2023.

During the year, we received donations of photos, property abstracts, business-related items, family trees, items related to life in Plain Township, school-related items and more. Whether we copied and returned those items or they found a permanent home with us, we are always amazed at what people share. One of those items was a quilt made in 1904. A resident of the area came to one of our meetings to share this quilt with us. It is red and white in the petal dresden plate pattern with a red border. On each petal and in the red border are hand-embrodered names. We are excited to work with the owner to possibly determine what organization made the quilt.

Thank you to everyone who supported us through donations, volunteering and making connections in the community.

2023 Free Meeting Schedule Save the Date

February 20, 2023

March 20, 2023

April 17, 2023

May 15, 2023

June 19, 2023 Annual Picnic

July 17, 2023

August 21, 2023

September 18, 2023

October 16, 2023

November 20, 2023

Location: Plain Township Hall, 2600 Easton St NE from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm unless otherwise noted.

For information on donating, meetings and our organization, please visit preservingplaintwp.org.

PLAIN LOCAL SCHOOLS Foundation and Alumni Association

STAR Grants

In the last six years over $100,000 has been distributed in Star Grants to various staff throughout Plain Local for programming that was outside of the district’s normal operating budget. Thanks to our incredible donors, The Plain Local Schools Foundation and Alumni Association was able to award a wide array of Star Grants this fall. Hear firsthand from Star Grant recipients below!

Fierce Females

“We are so grateful for the Star Grant funds we received to continue the Fierce Female program with amazing success! With the grant we have purchased Plain Fierce Female t-shirts for participating elementary schools to promote unity in our organization. We are focused on giving back to our school and community. Most recently, we have formed a partnership with Walsh University Student Athlete Advisory Committee to promote reading and collaborative play at recess through Athletes in Action. Collegiate student athletes volunteer their time to read with students and to play outside during recess. This has helped guide our students to develop a positive self-efficacy and had an overall benefit for our students and staff. The generosity of the Plain Local Foundation Star Grant has helped Fierce Females continue their mission of “Learn, Lead, Love.” -Star

Grant Recipient

Sources of Strength

“Sources of Strength is a best practice youth suicide prevention project designed to harness the power of peer social networks to change unhealthy norms and culture, ultimately preventing suicide, bullying, and substance abuse. GlenOak High School Sources of Strength peer leaders snapped a pic in their t-shirts purchased by the Star Grant. They are standing in front of their “gratitude tree.” They lead an activity with their classmates to improve their mindset by identifying things they are grateful for and writing them on the leaves.”

-Star Grant Recipient

Fall Ballet Success

In November the Plain Local Schools Foundation presented Beauty and the Beast ballet, under the direction of Jacquenette Blaydes. It was truly an amazing performance and showcased so much of the talent we have in the district. The community and district support was incredible, and the dancers truly blew us all away. We are already looking forward to next year’s Fall Ballet.

How You Can Help

Scan the QR code to find ways you can donate to the Foundation to help us in our mission to support teachers and students. Your donations allow us to award grants to our teachers that help to further enrich our students and community.

Mark your calendars:

The Foundation’s 2023 Senior Scholarships will be accepting applications on our website beginning February 1. Check our website for more information at plainfoundation.com/learnabout-the-scholarships.

BOARD OF EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT: Eugene Cazantzes

What is something someone reading this may not know about you? I pray for snow, not for my kids to have a day off, but to go snowmobiling.

Eugene Cazantzes lives in Plain Township with his wife, Robin, and children, Oakwood Middle School

STRATEGIC PLAN PLAIN

Plain Local Schools engaged in a 4-year strategic plan in 2021. Below are key takeaways and achievements.

GOAL 1: Academic Achievement

• 89% placement upon graduation from a career and technical program

• 45% of students scoring “Advanced” or “Accomplished” on the state report card

• #1 academic rating compared to 23 similar districts

• 100+ classrooms with new technology

• 20% of Plain Local students are identified as gifted

• GlenOak High School recognized as one of the best high schools in U.S. News and World Report

GOAL 2: Communication & Community Integration

• Launched new website Fall of 2022

• Launched quarterly community magazine in the Spring of 2021 that is distributed four times per year to 30,000 homes in Plain Township

• Increased engagement with community through social media platforms

» Facebook- 9,700 followers (facebook.com/plainlocalschools)

» Instagram- 4,803 followers (@plainlocalschools)

» Twitter- 2,675 followers (@plainlocal)

GOAL 3: Facilities/Safety & Security

• 100% compliance: District and Building Safety Plans

• 100% compliance of student and staff safety procedures as outlined by the state of Ohio

• Safety training offered to all staff

LOCAL SCHOOLS by the Numbers

GOAL 4: Climate, Culture & Wellness

• 25% reduction in out-of-school suspensions for the 22-23 school year

• 24 parent engagement opportunities offered for education and feedback.

• 40 hours of trauma training provided by Akron Children’s Hospital to all district staff

• Over 400 staff trained in behavioral management techniques

• Added two new preschool classrooms

GOAL

5:

Diversity

• Increased minority staff in all areas

• Increased recruitment of minority teachers through local and state colleges and universities

GOAL 6: Finances

• 25 perfect audits

• Managed $16 million in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds (ESSER)

GOAL 7: Business Operations and Human Resources

• 100% compliance with coaching staff on Title IX training

• 30 hours of leadership training provided to administrators

• Training provided for all staff on following topics

» Title IX

» Bullying

» Hazing

9 SCHOOLS

6 Elementary (K-4)

1 Intermediate School (5-6)

1 Middle School (7-8)

1 High School (9-12)

6,100 ENROLLMENT

TECHNOLOGY RATIO

1:1 K-12

Over 50 athletic and fine arts opportunities for students

GlenOak High School is the only International Baccalaureate World School in Stark County

17 Career and Technical offerings provided onsite at GlenOak High School

96% GRADUATION RATE

Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health

Submitted by Dan Mucci, Marketing Coordinator

Strengthening Families Program

Family Programming is offering a Strengthening Families Program (SFP). SFP family relationship skills are useful for all families with children ages 7-17.

Family Programming is Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health’s newest program and specializes in offering parenting strategies for families who have toddlers and children struggling with behavioral issues to offering tips to parents of teenagers. Family Programming will offer this support through two different programs: Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) and Strengthening Families Program (SFP).

The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program® is one of the world’s most effective parenting programs. Triple P works by giving parents the skills to raise confident, healthy children and teenagers, and to build stronger family relationships. It also helps parents manage misbehavior and prevent problems occurring in the first place. But it doesn’t tell people how to parent. Rather, it gives them simple and practical strategies they can adapt to suit their own values, beliefs, and needs.

Triple P services are provided free to the community through the support of Ohio Children’s Trust Fund and United Way.

The goal of the SFP program is to strengthen a family’s bond, communication, promote pro-social skills, and prevent and reduce adolescent substance abuse and other problematic behaviors in youth 7-17. Strengthening Families is built on five protective factors: parental resilience, social connections, concrete support in times of need, knowledge of parenting and child development and social and emotional competence of children.

SFP is provided to the community for free through the support of StarkMHAR.

Triple P is offered in person and virtually; SFP will be offered in person twice (once in the fall and once spring). These prevention programs will support parents in effectively and confidently handling social, emotional and behavioral issues before they become bigger and more challenging concerns..

For more information, please visit our website at www. childandadolescent.org/family-programming or email dmoyer@ childandadolescent.org.