Issue #1 - Sept. 30, 2011 - Back to School Issue

Back to School Issue

The Dodger

The Official Newsmagazine of Dodge City High School •Sept. 30, 2011 • Volume 92 • Issue #1

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

Issue #1

02 Back-to-School | Lineup

Dodger Staff Erin Finley..............................Editor Austin Ridenour......................Sports Brayden Whitaker...................Sports

Michael Gainer....................Reporter Edith Herrera.......................Reporter

Alex Mueller............ Reporter/Photo Alonso Acevedo............Photo/Video Dane Edwards...............Photo/Video

Cindy Moore........................ Adviser

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Editorial Policy The Dodger is a publication produced by the Dodge City High School journalism department. The newspaper attempts to inform and entertain its audience in a broad, fair, and accurate manner on all subjects that affect the readers. The publication seeks also to provide a forum for the opinion of students, the staff of the paper, and the faculty to encourage an exchange of ideas on all issues of prominence to readers.

The Dodger staff encourages letters to the editors, as they constitute avenue for student opinion. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be published. The editors reserve the right to edit all letters for appropriate placement as long as the meaning and intent remain unchanged. The letter must be signed to be considered for publication.

The opinions expressed throughout the publication are not necessarily those of the faculty, the administration, or USD #443. Unsigned articles are a general consensus of the staff, while signed articles are the personal forum of the writer. All letters, columns, stories, photos and art become legal property of The Dodger at the time they are submitted.

On the Cover. Textbooks, heavy bags, sticky notes, calculators, and agendas are all part of heading back to school.

• Photo Acevedo

Back to School p03 | Column p04 | New Dean p05 | PRIDE of Southwest Kansas/ Dodger Asks p06 | Getting Involved p07 | Dodger Asks p08-09 | Foreign Exchange Students p10-11 | New Teacher Profiles p12 | New Teacher Profiles p13 | H.E.R.O. Day p14 | Coaches Profiles p15 | Coaches Profiles p16 | Setting Goals

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Back-to-School | Column 03

Erin Finley As the leaves begin to change and the weather gets cooler, we can all be reminded that we really are in school for the next 30 weeks. Summer is really over and shorts must be exchanged for jeans and sweaters; study sessions have taken the place of parties and weekends are cherished as a small break from the stresses of school.

As you can see from the picture above, I am somewhat of a nerd. Although I usually don’t dress that way, I do think that way. I take school very seriously, and I work very hard to always do my best, but I do realize that not everyone is always like this. However, I think that the motivation of everyone has drastically decreased as we have

Dodger Asks:

all gotten older.

School has only been in session for about a month, and it appears that an extremely contagious form of senioritis has swept through the school. Senioritis is loosely defined as: “A crippling disease that strikes high school seniors. Symptoms include laziness, an over-excessive wearing of track pants, old athletic shirts, sweatpants and sweatshirts.

Also freatures a lack of studying, repeated absences, and a generally dismissive attitude (Urban Dictionary).

It seems that the current form of senioritis is affecting not only seniors, but the entire school. As a leader in extracurricular activities, it is extremely frustrating to see the lack of motivation and commitment in many students. The lack of responsibility is leaving extra work for the responsible students. This simply isn’t fair. (I know, life isn’t fair, but it seems like something should be done to cure this illness.)

I am beginning to feel that there are few people that turn in quality assignments. Although many students turn papers in, they aren’t completed to the best of their ability and this is a scary sign for society.

I have a great sense of personal responsibility. I feel guilty if I miss a deadline because this lets the rest of the newspaper staff down (and news is no longer news when it is a week old). I feel bad if I am out of

hit with senioritis yet. With my participation in many school and extracurricular activities, I don’t have time for senioritis.

If we don’t stop the premature senioritis illness it will soon turn into an epidemic. We must become responsible teenagers because we are the leaders of tomorrow. Do you want a leader who is lazy? I want a leader who works hard and does her best. I want a leader who is responsible.

Although these may seem like crazy goals, I believe they can be attained. DCHS is a great school and we all have the potential to do great things. Let’s raise the bar and go the extra mile. Stop being lazy and start working harder. It is time to gain a sense of personal responsibility. The lack of motivation in some students is aggravating to the students who always try their best.

As you read the Back to School issue of the Dodger, I hope you realize the hard work and dedication of many teachers and students. I hope it motivates and inspires all of you to work hard and do your best because high school is a great time to increase your knowledge and learn great skills for the future. College and adulthood is just around the corner and unfortunately the carefree days of summer have come to a close. I challenge everyone at DCHS to make this year the best one yet.

What are you doing to make this year successful?

“I’m studying harder in order to keep up with college classes.”

—Ian Deges, 12

step in band, end in the wrong spot during a show, or play the music incorrectly. My mistakes can cause the quality of the performance to decrease and this affects the whole band, not just me. As teenagers it is time to learn that what you do does affect others. Even if it is an individual task, it somehow affects someone else. Developing personal responsibility now is important for “the real world.”

Although I don’t know much about sports, I do know that there is a great deal of commitment, responsibility, and motivation involved. If the pitcher doesn’t show up for a game, the whole team will be affected because they will probably lose. If players forget necessary equipment, the whole team suffers because valuable practice time is lost. If we all developed a teamwork mentality, I feel like a lot more would be accomplished.

Many teenagers are busy people but using this as an excuse is ridiculous. I am the editor of the Dodger and a section leader for band. Outside of school I am involved in ballet and church. I also have a part-time job. It is important to learn to balance all of these activities because as an adult you will gain even more. If you can’t balance the activities and do your best in each, it is probably wise to get rid of a few.

As a senior, I have not been

“I’m more involved in extracurricular activities, working harder in my classes, taking time with friends and family, and making the best of senior year.” —Marco Balderrama, 12

“Learning how to manage my time more efficiently and meeting my requirements for graduation.”

—Carina Cabrera, 12

Issue #1

It’s too early for senioritis

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Issue #1

04 Back-to-School | New Dean

Leaving the Classroom

Hartzler takes spot as new dean -Erin Finley

Changes always occur with the

coming of a new school year and the 2011-2012 school year is no different. One of the most significant changes is within the administration. A new face has been added to administration.

Camilla Hartzler was hired to take Rollie VanWhye’s spot.

“Moving from teaching to administration was something that was always part of my ‘plan’ for my career,” said Hartzler. “I’m glad that I was able to make that transition here at Dodge City High School.”

Before making the transition to dean, Hartzler was a P.E. teacher at the middle school and then the high school. She has been at DCHS for 10 years.

As dean, Hartzler is mostly responsible for discipline problems.

“I mainly handle discipline issues, but I am also responsible

for athletic study hall as well as making sure that whenever teachers are absent, they have a substitute,” said Hartzler.

Transitioning from teacher to administrator has not been without difficulties, but other staff members have been there to help.

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“So far [the biggest challenge] has been learning all of the different rules and procedures for handling discipline issues,” said Hartzler.

“There is a lot of paperwork that goes along with this position so it’s nice that I have a good secretary to help me out and make sure I

am doing all of the paperwork correctly!”

The administrators at DCHS enjoy working with Hartzler because of her great work ethic.

“Ms. Hartzler is very easy to work with and brings a great attitude with her about her new job,” said Shawn Steiner, dean.

“Dealing with the same kids everyday with the same problems can sometimes be frustrating, but her demeanor never changes no matter how frustrating. She is learning quickly about what her duties are and how to handle them.”

Hartzler is happy to be staying at DCHS because “DCHS has a combination of good students, staff, and facilities that makes it one of the best high schools in the state of Kansas.”

You will most likely see Hartzler around the hallways at DCHS but it is probably best if you don’t have to visit her office.

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Back-to-School | Pride of Southwest Kansas/Dodger Asks 05

Halftime. Members of the pit perform with the band during halftime. • Photo Mueller

-Alex Mueller

The band is back and working

harder than ever to assemble yet another show for people to enjoy.

With 7 A.M. rehearsals, the band has been preparing for their newest theme show “Into the Sky,” with musical pieces from Galaxy Quest, Dragon Heart, E.T., and Clash of the Titans.

With 50 new freshmen, meaning 50 new people to train, getting together the band show is no easy task.

“The Color Guard and Drum line meet two extra hours per week.

The entire band spent one week in band camp…approximately 45 hours. We have evening rehearsals throughout the season on six to eight different nights. And the band members start rehearsal at 7:00 a.m. each day, not 8 a.m. like other DCHS students,” Erica Fleeman, band director, said.

“I think that the biggest challenge is being committed enough to the program to get up at six every morning to be at rehearsal by 7,” Caleb Austin, 11, said.

The band has to learn to march to many sets of drills and play their instruments at the same time, and

Dodger Asks:

‘Pride’ puts in extra time to perfect half-time show they have to memorize 15 pieces.

“It’s intense and focused, and the feeling you get when we’re done with the show is indescribable,” Austin Magette, 11, said.

Along with the reward of knowing that they did their best, the band members also learn a ton of life skills rehearsing for the show.

They learn to work as a team; they learn to be punctual; they learn to adhere to a busy schedule, and so much more.

“They are part of a team where everyone is on the ‘varsity.’ Not one person sits ‘on the bench’ during our performances, hence the students learn that everything they do affects the other band students, and in marching band drill, if one person makes a mistake everyone else pays for it as well,” Fleeman said.

The band directors start brainstorming a year in advance for the theme of the show.

“This year we wanted to do something different…and something that would be fun for the students to experience,” Fleeman said.

“I am probably most excited about the music. It is so upbeat and

Marching Band. The half-time show featured the DCHS marching band. Band students play as they march in formation at the first home game of the season against Wichita Northwest. • Photo Mueller

adventurous,” Austin said.

The band will be performing at festival competitions on Oct. 15 at K-State, Oct. 18 at the Dodge City Memorial Stadium, and Oct. 25 at Andover, KS. Dodge City will host the WAC marching festival on Oct. 18 at Memorial Stadium. WAC is a

marching festival that is held either at Dodge City, Garden City or Liberal. Schools from Southwest Kansas peform their show and earn a rating.

The band also performs at every home football game.

What are you doing to make this year successful?

“I’m just staying positive. I look at every assignment as a chance to better myself.” —Dakota Duckett, 11

Issue #1

‘Into the Sky’

“I’m aiming to pay attention more in class in order to understand the material, thus earning a higher grade.” —Zach Kirby, 11

“I am making a conscious effort to be more organized. This helps me to get everything that I need done during my hectic schedule.”

—Alexis Sanchez, 11

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Issue #1

06 Back-to-School | Getting Involved

Statistics show that getting involved in school activities can lead to higher GPA

Club membership opens doors for students -Alex Mueller

Here at Dodge City High School,

clubs and activities are an important part of many students’ daily lives. Every student has a chance to be involved at the school with clubs spanning from FCA to Future Teachers Club, and beyond that.

“Statistics show that the more involved the student is, the higher his or her GPA tends to be,” Kirstin Bangerter, one of the sponsors for FCA, said.

“I joined a club because I wanted to get involved and be able to have a say in decisions in the

Club

Sponsors

school,” Mackenzie Koehn, 12, said.

One of the biggest reasons that students get involved in clubs is to meet new people that they would not normally meet, and to take charge of their own education.

“What I like most about being involved in clubs is that while I get to spend time with my friends, I also get to meet new people and get more involved with my school,” Paige Bangerter, 11, said.

Keep your eyes open for posters in hallways or locker bays, and announcements during OP about how you can get involved.

FCCLA Shirley Voran/Frankie Schmitt

Drama Club Anne Kaiser

FCA Shannon Ralph, Kirstin

Bangerter, Tyson Schroeder

FBLA Justin Coffey, Mike Gillott

FFA Lemley, Aistrup, Martin,

Bruce Austin

FOR Melanie Miller

FTC Michelle Reid, Debbie Jones

Gear Up Melody Head

GSA Renelda Hornung

NHS Virgil Hutchcraft

Science Tonya Greenleaf, Annie Martinez, Olympiad Shannon Ralph, Sherry Curtis

STUCO Michael Pelton

Meeting Date 1st Thurs. monthly 3rd Tues. monthly Every Tuesday Thursdays Thursdays Thursdays Tuesdays Last Tuesday monthly Every other Thursday Not yet posted Not yet posted First Tuesday monthly

Circling up to hear about God. Each student leader of FCA comes up with an individual mesage to share with their group of FCA members. In this group, Katie Smith, 12, Kelly Brauer, 11, and Evan Baumer, 12, are the leaders. • Photo Harris

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Back-to-School | Dodger Asks 07

What are you doing to make this year successful?

“To make this year successful for my students I am including more activities which connect concepts with movements.”

—Sarah Hoff, History What a Nerd. Tyson Schroeder, social studies teacher, participates in Nerd Day as part of Spirit Week. Schroeder actively participates in Spirit Week activities. • Photo Edwards

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—Jim Mapel, History

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“I will make this year successful by encouraging the students in my classes to achieve their highest potential.”

—Kate Vierthaler, English

Issue #1

Dodger Asks:

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Bringing cultura

Copenhagen, Denmark

Roskilde, Denmark

Oscar Abelgren

• Capital: Copenhagen • Currency: Danist krone • Language: Danish • Location: Northern Europe • Religion: Lutheran • Ranks as having the world’s highest level of income equality.

• Constitutional monarchy

• Head of State: Queen Margrethe II • Member United Nations, NATO, • Population: 5,564,219 • Energy Policy: Launched an energy strategy that makes it the first country in the world to commit to an overall reduction in energy consumption.

Host Family: Ben & Debby Kennedy What made you want to come to America?

Signe Munk

Issue #1

08 Back-to-School| Foreign Exchange Students

I’ve never been here before.

What surprised you the most when you first came to America?

Host Family: Neil & Connie Shelton

What do you like to do during your free time?

I wanted to explore the culture and learn to become better at speaking English.

It was really hot outside and everybody wanted to give me a hug.

something fun.

Pacific, Indonesia, Tahoe, Greece, Egypt, Sweden, Norway, Germany and Iceland.

We say many bad words when we talk daily, and we are one of the countries that drinks the most.

Tennis and soccer.

Make new friends, be better in school and become more mature.

The smell of cow poo...

Playing soccer, being with friends, and going to parties.

Australia, Amsterdam, Italy, Egypt, Singapore, New York and counting.

Places traveled?

What about your country do you think would surprise Americans the most?

The culture of Denmark.

Extra-curricular Activities?

Soccer and Parkour, (sometimes abbreviated PK), a method of movement focused on moving around obstacles with speed and efficiency.

What do you expect to get out of this experience?

Make new friends, be better in school and become more mature.

What surprised you the most when you first came to America?

What do you like to do during your free time?

I like to be with friends, watch TV, or just make Places traveled?

What about your country do you think would surprise Americans the most?

Extra-curricular Activities?

Germany

What do you expect to get out of this experience?

Frankfurt, Germany Denmark

• Leading exporter of machinery, vehicles, chemicals, and household equipment.

• Germany continues to em- phasize close ties with the U.S., membership in NATO. • Oldest universal health care system dating back to 1883.

Philip Teichmann

What made you want to come to America?

Back-to-School | Foreign Exchange Students 09

Reetz, Germany Aaron Haas

• Capital: Berlin • Official Language: German • Govt.: Federal parliamentary repubic • Population: 81,799,600 • Currency: Euro • Location: Western & Central Europe • 7th largest country by area in Europe.

Ravensburg, Germany

Host Family: Bryce & Stephanie Fuhrmann What made you want to come to America?

•

•

•

Education: Germany has one of the highest levels of education, technological development, and economic productivity.

Unification: Germany was formally unified Oct. 3, 1990.

Economy: 5th largest in the world in purchasing power parity (PPP) terms.

Host Family: Neil & Connie Shelton What made you want to come to America?

I wanted to experience the different culture, school, people, and have new experiences.

There is no separation of garbage. Most girls in school just wear sports clothes or even sleeping pants. In Germany no- body would to that, but I like it.

I like to meet my friends, go shopping, or just eat ice cream in the city.

Countries in Europe like Greece, Italy, and Sweden

School is very different. Here you can take choir and band.

Sports are not part of school. Another thing is that if you are under 16 you can’t own a car or drive.

What surprised you the most when you first came to America?

My sisters spent one “awesome” year in the US.

How friendly Americans are

Play the guitar, relax, and hang out with friends.

Netherlands, France, Spain, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Poland, Israel and Egypt

The stuff we eat.

Soccer and band.

A lot of good experiences to take back with me.

I play tennis, but would also like to play soccer in the spring.

I want to have a better knowledge of English and be more independent.

What surprised you the most when you first came to America?

What do you like to do during your free time?

Places traveled?

What about your country do you think would surprise Americans the most?

Extra-curricular Activities?

What do you expect to get out of this experience?

Host Family: Ben & Debby Kennedy What made you want to come to America?

I wanted to experience something new.

What surprised you the most when you first came to America?

How big Kansas is and how much unused land there is.

Playing the guitar, meeting friends, and watching movies

Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Luxemburg, Switzerland, Austria, Greece

What do you like to do during your free time?

Places traveled?

What do you like to do during your free time?

Places traveled?

What about your country do you think would surprise Americans the most?

Extra-curricular Activities?

What do you expect to get out of this experience?

What about your country do you think would surprise Americans the most?

The food.

I play tennis and soccer.

I want to perfect my English. I also want to have a lot of good experiences and a lot of fun.

Extracurricular Activities?

What do you expect to get out of this experience?

Issue #1

al flair to DCHS

Cleonike Deutschmann

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Issue #1

10 Back-to-School | New Teacher Profiles

Angelica Villanueva • ESL • Years teaching: “This is my first year teaching.

Previously I was a long term substitute at DCMS” Subject: “I am an ESL teacher, but I co-teach with different teachers in the building. I am currently co-teaching in Biology and Business Economics.”

Degrees: K-State Biggest Challenge: “I think my biggest challenge will be for the teachers and the students to become acquainted with having two teachers in the classroom. So far it has worked out perfectly, and I find that it is extremely beneficial for our students having two teachers to serve them better.”

Extra-curricular Activities: “I have had dance teams when I was a parent liaison at DCMS. I hope I will be able to get back into that here at the high school.”

Excited about: “Teaching and building a relationship with my students.”

Goal: “My goal is to make a difference in as many students lives as possible. I would not be here today if it was not for the teachers that influenced my life tremendously.”

Glenn McMillan •Art/Photo • Years teaching: First year Subject: Art photo Degrees: “I got my A.A. from Allen County Community College, and my B.A. from Brigham Young University.”

Biggest Challenge: “I’m learning new things and getting adjusted.”

Extra-curricular Activities: “I want to start a photography club.”

Excited about: “Getting better as an art teacher and meeting my own expectations.”

Goal: “To have some truly meaningful curriculum. I want my students to walk away with things they’ve never thought about before.”

Suzi Trotter • English • Years teaching: This is my first year teaching, but I have substituted for three years.”

Subject: English; two regular junior classes, one freshman regular class.

Degrees: Bachelors at Brigham Young University, Masters at Emporia State.

Biggest Challenge: “I started three weeks into the year, so my students have been dealing with chaos, and don’t know my expectations yet.”

Excited about: “Just watching my students grow.”

Goal: “I’d like to show my students how to have fun learning.”

New Teachers 2011-2012 Steve Ray • Debate/Speech • Years teaching: “This will be my 28th year of teaching but my first in Dodge City.”

Subject: Speech, Debate and Technical Drama

Degrees: Oklahoma Panhandle State University Biggest Challenge: “I think the biggest challenge for me will be adjusting to life in Dodge City from that in Dallas and transitioning from teaching in Texas to teaching in Kansas.”

Extra-curricular Activities: Debate team sponser Excited about: “I think the schools and staff of Dodge City are committed to excellence and I am thrilled to be a part of that effort.”

Goal: “I want to help all of my students achieve at a higher level than they ever even imagined.”

Trista Fergerson

Dawn Burke

• Broadcasting •

• English •

Years teaching: First year.

Subject: Broadcasting and speech.

Degrees: “I got my undergrad at Northern Kentucky University and I am currently working on my Masters at Fort Hays.'

Biggest Challenge: “My biggest challenge is not getting stressed with all the small things.

There will be a lot of troubleshooting to do my first year teaching, and I have to remember to keep an open mind and not get flustered when things don’t go as planned.”

Extra-curricular Activities: “I coach freshman volleyball, middle school track, and I am a sponsor for FCA.” Excited about: “I’m most excited to get to teach in the field that I have a degree in. I worked as a reporter for several years and was passionate about my job and now I can hopefully start to make students passionate about broadcasting too.”

Goal: “My goal for the year is to get my broadcasting class working like a professional studio would work!”

Years teaching: “This is my first full year of teaching. I actually started at DCHS in January 2011.”

Subject: English 9 and 10 Degrees: “I received my degree from Newman University through the Western Kansas Center.”

Biggest Challenge: “My biggest challenge for this school year is challenging students to become avid readers. It is an amazing feeling getting lost in a book!”

Excited about: “I am so excited about this school year! I’m looking forward to the various reading projects and activities along with getting to know my students.”

Goal: “My goal for this year is to do everything I can to turn my students into succesful adults, especially in English!”

THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com • Special Ed • Years teaching: “I have been teaching for many years. I retired two years ago, but I missed DCHS so much and I had to return.”

Subject: “I am currently a Special Education teacher; my special area is English.”

Degrees: “I earned a B.S. and an M.S. from Fort Hays State University and I earned my English certification at St. Mary of the Plains College. I have also taken courses from many institutions throughout my career.”

Biggest Challenge: “Mounds of paperwork required by special education.”

Excited about: “Interacting with students and staff.”

Goal: “Make a difference—I read a quote recently that sums it up—author unknown— ’If you’re not makin’ dust, you’re eatin’ dust.’”

Whitney Van Der Kamp • Orchestra • Years teaching: First year Subject: Orchestra at DCHS, DCMS, and Soule Intermediate Center Degrees: University of Kansas Biggest Challenge: “Planning ahead and staying organized... and learning all of my students’ names.”

Extra-curricular Activities: Assistant girl’s tennis coach Excited about: “Performing at concerts and festivals throughout the year with my students; learning everyday along with my students.”

Goal: “To have my students walk out of my room a better musician and person than they were when they walked in at the beginning of the year.”

Nathan Gaswick • Business • Years teaching: First year Subject: Business Degrees: Bachelors of Business Administration in Accounting & Finance – Washburn University. Bachelors of Science in Business Education – Emporia State University Biggest Challenge: “My biggest challenge is planning and teaching for hour and a half blocks. I have always been with 45 minute periods and adjusting to this extra time and keeping students engaged throughout lengthy periods will be a challenge.”

Extra-curricular Activities: High school football coach and middle school boy’s basketball coach.

Excited about: “My wife and I both getting teaching and coaching jobs in a great school district in tough economic times.”

Goal: “Trying to put together a student-run business in the high school that gives students real-world experience while also contributing back to the high school.”

Issue #1

Carol Woydziak

Back-to-School| New Teacher Profiles 11

• Business • Broadcasting • English • Science • Art/Photo • French • Social Studies • FACS • Orchestra • Mark Sandbo • Social Studies • Years teaching: Fourth year Subject: “I have taught a variety of classes in my four years from a weights class, to American History, Government, and now at DCHS World History and World Geography.”

Degrees: Fort Hays State University Biggest Challenge: “My biggest challenge is the nightly prepping for my two new classes. I don’t mind burning the candle from both ends to get a firm foundation for the coming years with these classes.”

Extra-curricular Activities: “I’m an assistant coach in football and girls basketbal. I will also be the head boys tennis coach in the spring.”

Excited about: “I’m most excited about the opportunity to teach and coach in such a large district with what seems to be such a strong and unified staff.”

Goal: “My goal for the year is to be a large contributor to the continued success academically and athletically at DCHS!”

Frankey Schmidt

Brigette Burandt

• FACS •

• French •

Years teaching: 9th year but first in FACS Subject: Culinary Essentials, Interior Design I & II, and Clothing Fabrication Degrees: Bachelors degree -St. Mary of the Plains in Dodge City. Masters degree-Ft. Hays State University.

Biggest challenge: “Learning about Dodge City schools, the students who attend the schools here, and how I can best help them reach their goals.”

Extra-curricular Activities: co-sponsor for FCCLA. (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America).

Excited about: “I am most excited about being back in my own classroom. I taught for eight years in Garden City, then I worked for GCCC for six years, and over the last five years I subbed for a couple of small districts. Being back in my own classroom and being a part of the learning community here at DCHS is the most exciting thing I can think of!”

Goal: “My goal is to become an integral part of DCHS.”

Years teaching: “This is my first year teaching full time in the U.S. I spent one year teaching English to high school students in France, and I have also done some substitute teaching.”

Subject: French 1 & 2 Degrees: Kansas State University Biggest Challenge: “Probably figuring out all the details of how the school works, and finding out which lessons/methods work better than others.”

Extra-curricular Activities: “I was planning to co-sponsor the International Club, but I’ve been so busy I think I’ll only be able to help out occasionally instead.”

Excited about: “I’m excited about being able to share my love and knowledge of the French language and culture with my students, and hopefully encourage them to continue foreign language study and international travel.”

Goal: “My goal is to present French language and culture to my students in a way that not only interests them, but interacts with their various abilities.”

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Issue #1

12 Back-to-School| New Teacher Profiles

Tammy Peterson • Special Ed • Years teaching: “This is actually my 15th year of teaching, but it is my first year teaching special education.

Previously I have taught chemistry and biology.”

Subject: Special Education Degrees: “I received my bachelors from Panhandle State University in Goodwell Oklahoma and my masters from KSU. I am currently working on my second masters in special education from Fort Hays State Universtiy.”

Biggest Challenge: “My biggest challenge this year is learning a new job. The paperwork is going to be a challenge to learn.

Excited about: “I am excited about my new job and the new challenges.”

Goal: “Survive! I have been told this is the goal for all first year special education teachers.”

Laura Sheppard

Kelly Kensell

• Special Ed •

• Special Ed •

Years teaching: Fifth year Subject: Special Education Degrees: “I attended Texas A&M University for my undergraduate degree and Wayland Baptist University for my masters degree.”

Biggest Challenge: “My biggest challenge for the year will be to get to know the various school policies, getting to know my students, and setting up the classroom to meet the needs of many different people.”

Excited about: “Being at DCHS!” Goal: “My goal is to increase my students’ knowledge and to have a great year!”

Years teaching: First year Subject: Special Education Degrees: “MAT from National Louis University in Chicago. BA from Furman University in Greenville, SC.” Biggest Challenge: “Just basic first year survival!”

Excited about: “I’m excited that I found a school that puts kids first in every decision.”

Goal: “For my students to make progress toward their IEP goals. For my classroom to be a place where my students can count on finding support.”

New Teachers 2011-2012 Carmen Grimm • Science • Years teaching: First year Subject: Physical Earth Science Degrees: “I received my degree at Eastern Michigan University.”

Biggest Challenge: “My biggest challenge is planning and time issues. And not overwhelming the students.”

Excited about: “Teaching! Getting students interested about learning.”

Goal: “To get students interested in science.

And for them to reach their potential.”

Ross Smith

Jill McCollum

• Social Studies •

• Special Ed •

Years teaching: First year Subject: American History and World Geography Degrees: “I received my B.S. from Langston University in Langston, Okla.”

Biggest Challenge: “A challenge for me this year in just being prepared for everything.

There are some great teachers here at Dodge City, and they have helped me a great deal.”

Excited about: “I am excited about being a teacher. I have always wanted to teach, and it is exciting that my opportunity is here.”

Goal: “My goal is to help my students and become the best teacher that I possibly can be.

I am a very hard worker, and I will do whatever it takes to succeed.”

Years teaching: “This is my fifth year teaching, I taught four years at Dodge City Middle School.”

Subject: “I teach special education, English, math, and I co-teach World History with Mr. Fergerson.”

Degrees: “Graduated from Kansas State in 1989. I also graduated with a masters in special education from Pittsburg State University.”

Biggest Challenge: “Getting into a different routine from the middle school.”

Excited about: “Seeing how much my students progress.”

Goal: “To get my students to the highest level possible. Having them achieve all they can achieve.”

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Back-to-School | HERO Day 13

It’s not OK to bully

-Alex Mueller On Wednesday, Sept. 21 in the auxiliary gym, a new message went out to approximately 90 students through a program called “H.E.R.O. Day.” H.E.R.O. stands for Helping Ensure Resilience and Open-minds.

The message was that it is not okay to bully. While they might not show it, there are many kids in the school who are hurting, and no one knows about it.

The message also brought home the message that even if you think you are alone, you are not. There is always someone that you can talk to or confide in. Whether it be your parents, teachers, counselors, or another trusted adult, there is al-

ways someone there who can help.

During the day, games, activities, and “family” discussions about various subjects, such as family life, friends, and more serious topics like suicide were the focus.

“I think that (H.E.R.O. Day) was a very positive experience for both the students and the adults.

It was an eye-opener for students because they got to see how big a difference they can make in the world, and how to resist negative pressures,” Melanie Miller, counselor, said.

When each student entered the gym, they were assigned to “families” because of the large number of participants. Each family worked

Ice Breaker. Students line up for yet another activity planned by Joe Coles, H.E.R.O. Day facilitator. Students lined up according to their date of birth, shoe size, number of siblings they have, etc. The kicker was that students were not allowed to speak.

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together with the games and activities, and discussed the activities after they were completed. The assigned families stayed together for the whole day, and because of that, got to know each other very well.

“I really liked being in the smaller families. You really got to know those few people so you were more comfortable talking to each other,” Mikayla Eichman, 11, said.

One of the more emotional activities of the day, the “Walk Across the Line” activity brought tears to many of the students.

Every student who attended the program gathered at one side of the gym, while the speaker for the day, Joe Coles, asked questions.

If the question applied to you, then you would cross the line.

For example, when Coles asked, “How many of you go to Dodge City High School?” every student crossed the line.

“Hero Day brought a huge awareness to students. Hopefully all of us have more resilience and open-minds to the different types of people around us,” Mackenzie Koehn, 12, said.

This day gave every student, even if they didn’t attend, something to walk away with. Faculty and students are now trying to get together a H.E.R.O. club.

This activity was designed to help students get to know each other and to help ‘break the ice’ a little. • Photo Hannah Harris

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Issue #1

14 Back-to-School | Coaches Profiles

Nehls brings experience to the court

New head volleyball coach sets high goals for team

playing experience.

“I [played] at Butler Community with a lot of experience,” Kari College in El Dorado, KS,” Nehls, Keahey, 12 said. “Her experience said. “I have a love and passion will help us and make us a better for the sport, and I can’t picture my life without it!” team.”

Activities Director Tamie New girl’s head volleyball coach, Ashley Nehls, is planning Preston believes that Nehls is a to keep the respect that the Dodge great fit as the volleyball coach and feels that City High S c h o o l “Our team goals…are to have she will be uccessful volleyball positive attitudes, to always shere at team has DCHS. earned over play to our potential, to win “I think the years. she’s a good This will WAC and to make it to at be Nehls’ least the second round of the fit because she’s really first year organized coaching the state tournament.” and has a Demons, and she is looking forward to make an solid volleyball background and does a good job of motivating the impact.

“Our team goals this year are to girls and helping them to get better have positive attitudes, to always each day,” Preston said.

Nehls teaches advanced men’s play to our potential, to win WAC and to make it to at least the second and women’s PE here at DCHS. round of the state tournament,” She received a degree in Health and Physical Education at Emporia said Nehls.

Even though this is Nehls’ State University.

In Nehls’ free time she enjoys first year at DCHS, her coaching resume shows she has knowledge spending time with her friends and of the game. Nehls started her family. She also likes to stay fit coaching career at Emporia High by walking, jogging and playing School where she coached her first volleyball.

Nehls’ has been married to her year as an assistant and her second as the head coach before coaching husband Brock for a little over two years and has a five-month-old at Concordia High School.

Not, only does Nehls have baby girl named Kyndal.

Wanting a family-friendly coaching experience, she also has -Austin Ridenour

“Coach Nehls is a good coach

Huddling Up. Head volleyball coach Ashley Nehls gives additional coaching tips during a break in their game. The Lady Demons went 2-1 overall in the first tournament of the season. They played Lakin, Sublette and Hays. • Photo Edwards

community Nehls and her husband moved to Dodge City.

“We were looking for a place to start a family and continue to do what I love which is teaching and coaching. Dodge City was perfect fit for that,” said Nehls. “I love it here! I have stayed pretty busy, so

I haven’t done a lot of exploring.

But, the people here are friendly and there are plenty of things to do and see.”

Top Left. P.E. teachers Justin Briggs and Ashley Nehls visit with Veronica Campos, 09, about her progress in class. • Photo Acevedo

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Back-to-School| Coaches Profiles 15 Issue #1

Building on Red Demon tradition

Foster sees instant success in Dodge City -Brayden Whitaker

After the 2009-2010 school year, the Dodge City Red Demon

football program was looking for a new leader after the departure of multiple-year head coach Justin Burke.

One year after the fact, it seems as though Dave Foster was the perfect man for the job.

“The tradition and school administration were the main reasons why I chose Dodge City,” said Foster.

“I want to be in a community that sets high standards for their football program. I also expect the administration to be supportive when difficult situations arrive.”

Foster definitely has the resume of a successful football coach.

A graduate of Fort Hays State University, Foster was a three-year defensive starter for the Tigers, earning awards on the conference, regional and national levels, both athletically and academically. He began coaching in 1994 and moved his way up to a head coaching job in Ness City, Kan. Over his 15-year head coaching career, he has also coached at Haven, Kan. and Elk City, Okla. before finally coming to Dodge City.

“Football is my comfort zone,” said Foster. “I feel that no sport duplicates the physical sacrifice, commitment and team aspect as the game of football does. I understand the fact that every

sport is different and appreciate the differences of each, but there is a reason that 100,000 plus fans fill individual college stadiums every season.”

Of course, there is a life outside of football. Foster and his wife Summer have two daughters, Sydney and Mary Kate, and one son, Beau.

Foster said he enjoys taking his family on activities he enjoys outside of football, like hunting and fishing.

“Those are the times that I truly cherish. I guess you could say these good times are the reason I choose to work unlimited hours during football season, because the light at the end of the tunnel is knowing that the off-season will come and memories will be created,” he said.

Foster, who graduated from FHSU with a master’s degree in physical education and an undergraduate degree in biology, currently is the weights class teacher at DCHS and was a biology teacher during his time in Elk City, Okla.

“I appreciate the challenge of educating our youth regardless of the subject matter,” he said.

Last season, Foster had one of the best starts to a coaching tenure in Demon football history, leading the team to the sub-state playoff round before losing their first game of the season to eventual state champion Wichita Heights.

“I think the success should be attributed to my coaching staff and

Pep Talk. Red Demon head coach Dave Foster talks to one of his players during a time out at a home football game. Foster is in his second year as Demon head coach and led Dodge to the Sub-State playoff round last season. • Photo Acevedo.

players who believed the message I sent,” said Foster.

“Our senior leadership was a big part of our success. Most people don’t understand how fine the line is between greatness and average.”

The success has only made Foster’s time in Dodge City more enjoyable.

“We’ve loved Dodge City,” he said. “The athletic programs

are first class and each are led by quality coaches. The community is progressive, and the diversity of this community should be appreciated. Dodge is big enough to meet most of a person’s needs, but never more than a one stoplight traffic jam.”

Foster looks to build on his success as the highly-touted Demons work to make another deep run into the state playoffs.

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16 Back-to-School|Setting Goals

Making DCHS the best school possible…

Feist focuses on goals for 2011-12 school year -Erin Finley

Just like a New Year’s resolution,

it is important to set goals for each upcoming school year. Without an idea of what you want to accomplish in the school year, it will never happen. Teachers and students should make goals and so should the administrators. Setting goals and achieving them does not have to be hard.

In order to set a goal, it is important to decide what you are already doing well. In this case “you” is the school. Jacque Feist, principal, believes there are many aspects that make DCHS a great school.

“Without a doubt, what makes DCHS a great school are the students,” said Feist. “This is their school, and ultimately their experience while they are here, is what they choose to make of it. In order for this to happen, it is imperative to have great staff members – people who care and are willing to do whatever is needed to provide positive and effective programs to meet the needs of our students.”

The next step in setting a goal is to determine what areas need improvement. Although DCHS is a great school, there are various facets that can be improved.

“I would like to see an improvement in the area of students more fully understanding the academic preparations they need here in order to be adequately prepared for their next step in their life, whether this be some type of post secondary education or directly into the work force,” said Feist. “It concerns me greatly when students choose to ‘meet graduation requirements only’ and don’t take the next step to challenge themselves with the academic offerings we have here to really give themselves a jump of their college/post secondary educational plans. It has been my experience that when students take advantage of what we have to offer them academically here in our building, they find great success rates at the next level of their education. For those who choose

not to challenge themselves, they are not as adequately prepared, thus their success rate is much lower.”

After determining what is going

strategies to help reach the big goal. Without a strategy, it is difficult to attain that goal. “[To reach our goal DCHS] will continue to improve academic

“Without a doubt, what makes DCHS a great school are the students. This is their school, and ultimately their experience while they are here, is what they choose to make of it.” well and what needs improvement, the next step is to actually set the goal. Feist has set a few goals for the 2011-2012 school year.

“The goals I have for DCHS are to continue to improve the overall experience that every student has while they are here. This includes all facets of student life – academics, activities, athletics, etc,” said Feist. “In particular, one area we will work on this year to improve our services to students is in the area of communication. We need to get information to students that is relevant to them in a format/ method/location where they will find it. We are working right now to improve our intraschool communication systems for announcements in electronic format.”

It is also essential to discuss

programs to meet the needs of the students at all ends of the spectrum, as well as improve activity/athletic programming,” said Feist. “We will also listen to what students tell us they want and need and we will do our best to figure out how to

meet these wants/needs.”

Sometimes goals are hard to achieve without outside help. In order to make DCHS even better it is imperative that everyone cooperates and works together. Students and staff can help make DCHS better than it already is.

“The most important thing students and staff can do to help improve the experience of attending DCHS is to be honest about what is needed and then be willing to be a part of the solution,” said Feist. “They can help identify core issues and not just focus of minor issues that cloud the big picture. This will allow us to be more proactive in our approach rather than simply re-acting to situations as they occur.”

After establishing the goal, one must envision the end result. After setting the goal, Feist looks to the end of the year at DCHS. “I see DCHS at the end of the school year as an overall better place than it was at the end of the previous year as we must continue to change yearly to meet the new needs/wants/challenges of our students,” said Feist. “We are always a ‘work in progress’ as things change so quickly in education and we have to respond to these changes in order to provide the best experience possible for our students.”

If everyone works hard to achieve this vision, DCHS will be an even better school.