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SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012
Partners in Education help schools reach goals
Gary Norris Superintendent of the Waterloo Community School District
As we get close to the end of the 2011-12 school year, we want to take this time and thank all our partnerships. We have started some new partnerships and have grown our existing ones. This school year has been a very busy one for the district. We have continued to focus on student achievement by increasing the rigor of our courses and keeping them relevant to what our business community needs. As we have continued to stay focused on increasing student achievement, teachers have stretched and worked extremely
hard. In order to continue to support our teachers, staff and administrators, we have called on our partners many times to help us reach those goals. The Waterloo Community School District is truly blessed to work with some of the best businesses and organizations in the Cedar Valley. These groups bring both time and talent to our entire district as a whole. The support that we receive goes far beyond anything we could provide within our usual resources. We truly are grateful and appreciative of everything our partners do.
The school district is now entering its 25th year of the Partners in Education program, and our second full year of Career Interest Academies at the high school level. PIE volunteers come from a variety of businesses and backgrounds with one common goal — to work together with their partner school to help improve our students’ experiences and to enrich the school district where their employees and future employees live. The CIA businesses and volunteers include business professionals, community members and
educators. Together with the strategic partnerships we have started for the Career Academies, we have been able to engage students in learning about a variety of career opportunities that are available in the Cedar Valley. Thank you to all of our committed parents, employees and our community partners. We know that by working together to raise student achievement, we will have better prepared students and see continued progress in our community. Together we will prepare students for college, career and citizenship.
PBIS program works at school and at home By MINDY FISHER PBIS coordinator
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Uyntha Duncan and Bruce Clark from the Cedar Valley Character Counts! Committee made a special announcement to the student body at Lowell.
Lowell recognized as 2012 school of character WATERLOO — Lowell Elementary School has been chosen as the 2012 School of Character for the Cedar Valley. Students in the Expanded Learning Program at Lowell were recognized at the Champions of Character Dinner for their environmental community awareness project. Other 2012 awardees include:
Business / organization, Hellman & Associates; adult citizen of character, Jim Coloff; youth citizen of character, Oliver Palmer, former Fred Becker Elementary School student; educator of character, Danielle Meyer, seventh grade teacher at Hoover Middle School; Pursuing victory with honor award, Kaitlyn Trampel.
All Waterloo Community Schools are Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports schools. PBIS is a school-wide plan that works at recognizing students for making good behavior choices and is a proactive discipline plan that works to prevent challenging behaviors. PBIS helps teaching staff and administrators to establish clear expectations for students. PBIS teams establish schoolwide approaches to recognizing students for positive behavior, while still implementing appropriate consequences for students with challenging behavior. Parents can become involved in several ways, too. 1. Parents can join the schoolwide team that meets, at least, monthly. 2. Parents can volunteer to help with student recognition assemblies or other events. 3. Parents can ask their students about school expectations. PBIS can work at home, too. Parents and children adopt consistent rules and expectations. Parents are in charge, but children help to create the expectations and rules. Parents recognize
when their child is doing well and tells them, but parents also follow through on consequences when their child exhibits challenging behavior. PBIS works to teach all children what is expected of them when it comes to behavior.
Leader in Me The Leader in Me initiative is being implemented at Dr. Walter Cunningham School for Excellence and Fred Becker Elementary. Other Waterloo Schools will join this initiative within the next few years. The Leader in Me program uses Stephan Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and Sean Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Happy Kids” books to help teachers, administrators and students to be their own leader by incorporat-
ing the habits in everyday life at school and at home. This program works to increase students’ self-confidence, while working to decrease discipline problems.
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Career Interest Academies introduce students to ‘real world’ experiences ■ Manufacturing Human Services Academy ■ Transportation, Distribution and Logistics The Human Services Academy in■ Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources cludes jobs that would fall under the and Veterinary Science following national job clusters: ■ Human Services, Career Pathways Health Services Academy related to family and human needs The Health Services Academy includes ■ Hospitality and Tourism jobs that involve: planning, managing and ■ Education and Training providing therapeutic services, diagnos■ Government and Public Administratic services, health information, support tion services, and biotechnology research and ■ Law, Public Safety, Corrections and development for human sciences. Security
By CRYSTAL BUZZA Waterloo Community Schools Director of Strategic Partnerships
Waterloo Community School District Career Interest Academies continue to evolve. The program — introduced last school year — brings careerrelated experiences into the high school classroom in order to answer the question: “why do I need to know ______.” Career Interest Academies are small learning communities of 300-400 students taking courses with a career theme. The district has formed partnerships with employers, the community and higher education and is working to incorporate work-based learning opportunities into the academies. Students still have core classes required for graduation; however, elective courses are closely aligned with one of the four academies. Career Interest Academies make learning relevant for students, and the hands-on experiences keep them engaged in learning, no matter what career field they choose. The district is continuing to add advanced placement, college level courses and certification programs for each academy. This year the focus has been on continuing to revise current curriculum, focusing on employability skills with students, establishing clear career pathways and courses that align with the pathways, as well as integrating units across different content areas. One of our biggest successes has been in literacy. Each academy was required to demonstrate a literacy project using some form of writing that a student would need in their career interest. Projects ranged from writing business proposals for architecture projects to writing a work ticket for mechanical repairs. High school teachers also have participated in business tours in the Cedar Valley to become familiar with various careers in the area and the skills required for those careers. Teachers used their newfound knowledge to create a lesson plan tied to current content.
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Above: East High students pour concrete for their ETM class. Students are temporarily NOT in dress code due to the nature of the project. At left: Waterloo students work in a crime lab for their class.
This year we have had more than 40 career speakers and 30 field career experiences. Each of those opportunities has allowed students to take a deeper look into the Career Interest Academy they have selected. Students also have been sent to the SkillsUSA and ProStart Culinary competitions. The four Career Interest Academy areas include:
Arts, Communication and Business Academy The Arts, Communication & Business Academy includes jobs that fall under the
following clusters: ■ Arts, AV Technology and Communications ■ Information Technology ■ Marketing, Sales and Service ■ Business, Management and Administration Finance
Engineering, Technology and Manufacturing Academy The Engineering, Technology and Manufacturing Academy includes jobs that would fall under the following national job clusters: ■ Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics ■ Architectural and Construction Technology
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SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012
Poyner’s partners contribute to positive learning EVANSDALE — Poyner Elementary has enjoyed long-lasting Partners in Education relationships. JC Penney is the longest at 22 years, followed by John Deere Foundry (22 years); Tyson Fresh Meats (21 years); cities of Evansdale and Elk Run Heights (17 years); Tyson Prepared Foods (16 years); First Security State Bank (11 years); Barnes and Noble Booksellers (eight years); Hy-Vee Crossroads (seven years); Service Roofing Co., Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and St. Mark’s United Methodist (five years); Countryside Vineyard Church (three years); and Evansdale Economic Development Corp. (two years). “Our Partners in Education provide us with many resources to that contribute to a positive learning environment. Not only do they provide us with supplies and monetary donations, they also volunteer hours of service to help us increase student achievement. We are very fortunate to be partnered with so many wonderful businesses,” said Principal Trista Manternach. Other partners’ activities included: a book fair at Barnes and Noble; back-to-school luncheon; packing and distribution for Operation Family Back Pack; End Childhood Hunger sack lunches; classroom volunteers; serving refreshments after music performances; school supply donations; donating hats and mittens; glow sticks for safety during trick-ortreating; holiday baskets; dona-
“The church family at Countryside Vineyard was blessed a hundred-fold by the children during the recognition assembly held for us. We enjoy keeping informed on
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tion of healthy snacks during testing; prizes and funding for the PBIS incentive program; May baskets for students; volunteer at the Holiday Store; and the adopta-family program. Myah W., a third-grader said partners are “caring because they helped provide school supplies and treats for Iowa Assessments testing week.” Media specialist Susan Jolly was able to fill special requests for books. “The opportunity to have an additional book fair at Barnes and Noble is such a plus to have. It gives additional help when sometimes we’re at that stage with no money in the library budget for more books..” Prince of Peace volunteers spent hours cutting and sorting math materials for the new math curriculum, as well as box tops, HyVee
receipts and food labels to bring in thousands of dollars toward new playground equipment. First Security employees purchased polos with the Poyner logo and added their logo, and special needs classes baked cookies for Partners. HyVee donated neon green reusable shopping bags that were given to staff members as holiday gifts. “We would be lost if they didn’t come and deliver the food backpacks to the students. If they didn’t do this, I don’t think it would get done. They have also donated a lot of school supplies and clothes. That has been wonderful,” said counselor Luanne Schneider. Students made artwork and cards for partners and celebrated Earth day with a poster contest sponsored by John Deere Foundry.
hood Association, St. Timothy’s United Methodist Church, Gates Park Optimist Club, Hellman Associates Inc., Jesse Cosby Neighborhood Center, Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, Martin Luther King Jr. Center. ■ Highland Elementary: John Deere Waterloo Works, Nazareth Lutheran Church, Breath of Life Foursquare Church, Peterson & Tietz Florists and Greenhouses, Lincoln Savings Bank (Waterloo Office), Trinity Episcopal Parish, Omega Cabinetry. ■ Irving Elementary: The Courier, GMAC Mortgage, First Baptist Church,
Ravenwood Nursing & Rehab Center, Wells Fargo, Bethel Presbyterian Church, Struxture Architects, First United Methodist Church, Trinity American Lutheran Church, First Presbyterian Church, Church Row Historical Neighborhood Association, CUNA Mutual. ■ Kingsley Elementary: KWWL, Manor Care Health Service, HyVee-Ansborough Avenue, Vanderloo Chiropractic, Cedar Valley Vein Clinic, Northern Iowa Vascular Lab LCC, Westminster Presbyterian Church, MidWestOne Bank.
PARTNERS IN EDUCATION ■ Fred Becker Elementary: Century Link, First Judicial District Department of Correctional Services, Iowa Community Credit Union, Communications Workers of America, Waterloo AMVETS Post No. 19, National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 512, Friendship Village, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls Lutheran Home, The Rose of Waterloo, Maple Lanes. ■ Dr. Walter Cunningham School: City of Waterloo, Winnebago Council Boy Scouts of America, KBBG Radio, AFFINA, Community National Bank, UNITY Neighbor-
See PIE, page 5
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the progress the children are making in their academics, and the opportunity to serve Poyner with the Food Backpack program,” said Sue Hoven from the church.
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012
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Hoover Orange ‘blessed’ with caring partnerships appreciates generosity WATERLOO — Partners are important at Hoover Middle School, providing support for students and participating in activities. Wheaton Franciscan, Airgas, Black Hawk-Bremer League of Women Voters, ReMax and CraftCochran are the school’s partners. Airgas provides pizza for students of the month, and Wheaton Franciscan provides cookies for parents and guardians and a room and luncheon for fourth- through eighth-grade students in the writer’s workshop that encourages creative writing. “For a number of years, Wheaton Franciscan has provided the room delicious luncheons and has hosted our young writers from Hoover, Lou Henry and, last year, West High was added. We greatly appreciate our partners for their generosity,” said Donna Huff. The League of Women Voters provides savings bonds as prizes for essay contents. Other activities supported by partners include the Christmas adopt-a-family program, donations of items for Hawk’s Nook, health fairs for seventh-graders, duct tape and supplies when needed, Red Ribbon Week and job shadowing. “The students really appreciate the things our partners do for them,” said Cari Scribner.
PIE From page 4 ■ Kittrell Elementary: Veridian Credit Union, Target, Optimist Club, In Vision Architecture Ltd., Bonanza Family Restaurant, Olive Garden Italian Restaurant, Ridgeway Place, American Cancer Society, Immanuel Presbyterian Church, Hammond Avenue Brethren Church, Old Navy, The Other Place. ■ Lincoln Elementary: University of Iowa, Waterloo Black Hawks, International Paper Company, EPICS, Parkview
WATERLOO — Partners allow students at Orange Elementary School to connect with the community. “Besides their generous gifts of time and resources they provide to us, our students are allowed to give to them through service projects like public announcement commercials, musical visits to their sites, and seasonal decorations to those who aren’t able to get out very often. We are very blessed to have such a caring group of community people and businesses to help us educate our Orange students,” said thirdgrade teacher Vicki Holler. Partners are Hawkeye Community College, a 26-year partnership, Mediacom, Harmony House Health Care Center, South Waterloo Church of the Brethren, Liberty Bank, Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Garden, Kappa Delta Pi from University of Northern Iowa and the Orange Parent Association Approximately 15 HCC students plan and develop a learning fair for 80 kindergarten students. Fifth-grade classrooms spent time with Harmony House friends during Nursing Home Week. HCC provides students as volunteers and mentors, hosts Respect luncheons at the college for 131 fourth- and fifth-graders, participates in the Team Mates mentoring program and provides child care for conferences, as well as reading to students on Children’s Literacy Day. The HCC/Black Hawk County Health Department offers a dental sealant program for sec-
Nursing and Rehab Center, Waterloo Fire Rescue, Van G. Miller & Associates, US Bank, Principal Financial Group, Greater Cedar Valley Alliance, The CBE Group Inc., Cedar Valley Community Healthcare, River’s Edge Christian Church. ■ Lowell Elementary: Black Hawk County, Grainger, Grace Brethren Church, First Wesleyan Church, Cornerstone Fellowship Church, Northeast Iowa Family Practice Center, Lincoln Savings Bank (CF Office), Country View, Cadillac Lanes, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Nestle USA, Horace Mann Insurance Cos. ■ Lou Henry: Gordmans, Farmer’s
ond- through fifth-graders, and a dental hygienist presentation. A retired HCC professor used ventriloquism with puppets to promote the Six Pillars of Character with kindergarten and firstgraders, talked to second-graders about the Wampanaoug Indians and visited with various classes about the pilgrims. “Partnering with Orange is a wonderful opportunity for our Hawkeye students and Orange students. These authentic experiences are so important in the formation of new teachers. I have loved the relationship we have had over the years. It is truly a partnership,” said Catherine Freeman, HCC professor. UNI/KDP provides members to run a girls basketball program for third- through fifth-graders provides classroom tutors for students; and teaches Core Knowledge lessons, as well as participates in the adopt-a-soldier program. Orange Chorus sang at KDP’s initiation and also performed at partners’ locations during the holidays. “My students have been a part of the Kappa Delta Pi initiation ceremonies for two years, and UNI honors us graciously. KDP provides wonderful opportunities for our students and our students give hands-on teaching opportunities to UNI students. Our other partners help us with ongoing services all year, as well. Orange has very active partnerships,” said music specialist Nancy Standafer. Dr. Stephen Fortgang, UNI KDP faculty counselor, describes the
State Bank, Northeast Area Music Teachers, Oakridge Realtors, Cedar Valley Hospice, Central Christian Church, Advanced Diagnostic Imaging, Cedar Valley Community Church, Lowe’s Improvement Warehouse, Short’s Travel Management. ■ Orange Elementary: Hawkeye Community College, Mediacom, South Waterloo Church of the Brethren, Harmony House Health Care Center, Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, Liberty Bank, UNI Kappa Delta Pi.
See PIE, page 15
partnership as a “terrific opportunity for everyone involved. Orange provides an exciting setting in which our members can develop and contribute their expertise.” Orange students filmed holiday public service announcements that aired on Mediacom, and Mediacom provides free cable for the school. South Waterloo Church of the Brethren provides a live Nativity scene for public viewing, and Orange School helps line Kimball Avenue with luminaries. The church also provides May baskets for staff. Orange Parent Association sponsors a carnival, book fair, fall festival, Black Hawk hock-
ey event, game night and other activities. Other activities include Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens’ annual scarecrow contest and, in coordination with HCC, the arboretum provides resources and locations for Earth Connections and the GLOBE program. Partners sponsor a clothing drive for needy students; provide food baskets for needy families during the holidays; donate teacher and student supplies; participate in My Waterloo Days parade; assist in saving/collecting box tops and offer field trips to their businesses and guest speakers.
4UFQ $POlEFOUMZ *OUP UIF 'VUVSF A Proud Supporter of the Partners In Education Program
CUNA Mutual Group 2000 Heritage Way Waverly, IA 50677
10001981-0412 PIE
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Partners provide year-long support to Kingsley ■ Teachers, parents and partners come together to plan event.
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K.C., the Kingsley mascot and Principal Susan Flodeen. with the help of Dr. and Mrs. Vanderloo this spring. While the Vanderloos visited and worked in Haiti, they brought letters back and forth between the Kingsley students and the Haitian students. With the help of Miss Tiffany, Kingsley’s art teacher, and Mrs. Hullermann, a fourth-grade teacher, students produce art for Partners to display at their place of business. ManorCare Health Services supported Kingsley events and provide items for gift bags for monthly assemblies and rewards tokens. Partners participate in the adopt-a-family program and provide healthy snacks during testing. “There have been so many
times that each of our partners have committed their time, energy and ideas to make everyday a rich environment for our students. The Kingsley staff and I would like to sincerely say a heartfelt ‘thank you,’” said Flodeen.
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012
Central, partners value work to help benefit students WATERLOO — Central Middle School partners are appreciated. Partners are John Deere PEC, Upper Iowa University, Family YMCA, Payne A.M.E. Church, Heartland Vineyard Church, University Avenue Hy-Vee, Iowa Legal Aid, BankIowa and Cadillac Lanes. “The opportunities and incentives all our partners bring to the students at Central enrich the total learning environment. We are proud of our students’ successes and appreciate the partners’ efforts in recognizing their hard work,” said Kim Latusick, PIE chairperson. Among activities involving John Deere PEC: PBIS supporter, students provide lunch music, National Teacher Day recognition, Book Fair, student of the month, pencils for testing and a National Engineer Week presentation to eighth-graders. The Family YMCA is a PBIS supporter and recognizes Students of Character monthly. Upper Iowa University participates in such programs as PBIS, provides a pizza party for students who are chosen student of character collected pop cans with proceeds to the school, provides field experi-
ence and volunteers to tutor and mentors students. Payne A.M.E. Church provides school supplies for students and assists with student of character recognitions, while Hy-Vee recognizes students of character each month with a family award dinner. BankIowa offers the American Banker Association’s “How to Save” presentation to seventh-graders and participates in the adopt-afamily program at Christmas. “In working with our partners it is clear they are here to help. We value this partnership and continue to work together for the benefit of our students. The work our partners do for our students is greatly appreciated,” said assistant principal John Netty.
Family & Children’s Council - Partners In Education Take Charge of your Body a sexual abuse prevention program for kids in preschool to 6th grade Wise Guys - helping teen boys develop healthy relationships and decision making skills
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WATERLOO — At Kingsley Elementary School, partners begin their support even before students walk through the doors at the start of the school year. The “Meet the Teacher Night” is sponsored, organized and staffed by partners, parents and Kingsley staff members. “This event is a great gathering in which we all become re-acquainted, share summer stories, and plan for the upcoming school year,” said Principal Susan Flodeen. Partners are the Cedar Valley Vein Clinic, Ansborough Avenue Hy-Vee, KWWL-TV, ManorCare Health Services, MidWestOne Bank, Vanderloo Chiropractic and Westminster Presbyterian Church. “Kingsley has been honored to have such a fine relationship with our Partners in Education. Their support for our students and staff continues to be outstanding and greatly contributes to Kingsley having such a rich educational environment,” Flodeen explained. Birthdays are special at Kingsley. Each partner is assigned a different grade level and provide a birthday bag to each student. Partners also provide a holiday luncheon and gift bag for staff during December, “something the whole staff looks forward to every year — it’s great,” says Mrs. Jackie Lekar, head secretary. Westminster Presbyterian Church hosts the fifth-grade pizza-bingo fundraiser, and Ansborough Hy-Vee coordinated efforts with the Waterloo Fire Department and Kingsley to offer five stations of fire safety for upper elementary students in April. Hy-Vee also provided lunch for the students. During December, each Kingsley student created a decoration for Ansborough Hy-Vee’s Christmas tree. Haitian students communicated with Kingsley students
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Bunger students build bonds with partners
Partnerships with Carver Academy stand test of time WATERLOO — Partners in Education are active at George Washington Carver Academy, working with students and staff. Partners are Allen Hospital and Allen College, St. Paul’s Methodist Church, Antioch Baptist Church, Hy-Vee, Logan Avenue, Wartburg College and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum. A sixth-grade class travels weekly to St. Paul’s to read to a group of adult volunteers. Allen College hosts an etiquette luncheon for eighth-graders at Allen, joined by Carver staff and partners’ volunteers. Allen College also hosts the quarterly Honor Roll assemblies, which include attendance and occasional performances by partners. Allen Hospital hosts monthly reward luncheons for six students, two from each grade, who have been selected for exemplary demonstration of the Six Pillars of Character by their teachers.
“Good things stand the test of time. Allen and Logan Intermediate were Waterloo’s first Partners in Education, and even though the school’s name and building have changed, our partnership remains. Allen is proud to partner with George Washington Carver Academy and the Waterloo Schools,” said Jim Waterbury of Allen Hospital. Several partners provide funding for extra pencils and healthy snacks to give students before the Iowa Assessments, and another partner provided snacks. Sixth-graders had the opportunity to sign up for a six-week wrestling program focused on skills and the pillars of Character Counts. Different guest hosts worked with students each week. “The Partners in Education program an important tool for investing in our youth. The National Wrestling Hall of Fame has benefited greatly from this partnership,” said Kyle Klingman of the museum.
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Students Nicholas Cary, left, Hneiva Uranga and Cecilia Borwig deliver Meals on Wheels with one of Bunger’s Partners in Education.
“It may not be too long before some of these students are working along-side me, and it is nice to know that they have pillars of character as a background coming into the work place.” Matt Whitehead from The Other Place
Peter’s Construction provides a reading and language arts vehicle for a Bunger float in the teacher Mrs. Pat Brown. Waterloo Days Parade. The Pen Pals program between seventh-graders and First Congregational Church is popular. “One can see their eyes light up as they meet each other for the first time. They write about books they each have read, what is happening in their lives, and just life in general. I guess I know it is a good thing when I get the same pen pal volunteers every year,” said seventh-grade
We Salute Our Partner In Education Kittrell Elementary
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EVANSDALE — Students at Bunger Middle School helped deliver meals to the home-bound through Meals on Wheels, an activity coordinated by the First Congregational United Church of Christ, one of the school’s Partners in Education. They also participated in a Salvation Army Food Drive, among other activities. “Bunger has many youth dedicated to making a difference in their community, and we are honored to assist them along their journey,” said the church’s youth minister Greg Holt. The school’s other partners are First Congregational United Church of Christ, Peters Construction Corp., the Kinder Agency and the Other Place III Restaurant in Evansdale. The Other Place provided the luncheon for students of the month, with other partners providing transportation and photography. “I definitely enjoy hearing about the students having a good time when they come down for lunch. I’m happy to be able to provide for students that stand out each month for showing good character in school. It may not be too long before some of these students are working along-side me, and it is nice to know that they have pillars of character as a background coming into the work place,” said The Other Place III’s Matt Whitehead. Partners also adopt families for the holidays, provide transportation for students and their families and offer financial support for special occasions.
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Lowell’s partnerships provide students with support ing dinner and food distribution; help to get over one-third of Lowell families adopted for the Christmas holidays; provide 60 needy students with a Holiday Shoe Box school supplies and other fun items for the season; provide volunteers to serve meals for Cougar Cafe and help with PBIS “Kids of Character” celebrations. Partners also provide incentives for the “Read to Ride” program to get students excited about reading at home; providing money to buy new books and gently used books for the Lowell STARS Book Store; providing lunch for
staff during all and spring conferences; providing incentives to fifth-graders on safety patrol; mentoring; providing funds for the annual volunteer breakfast; career shadowing for fourthand fifth-graders; field trips, a Day In Court, and providing clothing for school uniforms.
Irving Elementary School recognizes value of partners’ commitment
We’re confident that
WATERLOO — Lowell Elementary School is proud of their parternships and the many ways partners interact and support the students, families and staff, said family support worker Carole Gustafson. The school’s partners are Black Hawk County, Cadillac Lanes, Country View, Cornerstone Fellowship Church, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, First Wesleyan Church, Grace Brethren Church, Grainger Parts, Horace Mann Insurance, Lincoln Savings Bank, Nestle USA and Northeast Iowa Family Practice Center.
WATERLOO — Irving Elementary School added two new partnerships this year, Church Row Historical Neighborhood Association and CUNA Mutual Group from Waverly. “Both organizations have partnered with us because they want to share in empowering our kids to be successful in all walks of their lives. As a school, we value all of our partners’ commitments to our students and staff. I personally revel in the fact that adults, outside the normal realm of our students’ lives, are taking a part in their futures,” said teacher Debbie Colflesh. Other partners are Bethel Presbyterian Church, First Baptist Church, First United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church, GMAC Mortgage, Ravenwood Nursing and Rehab Center, StruXture Architects, Trinity American Lutheran Church, Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier and Wells Fargo Bank. Partners support Character Counts by providing treats for the Cafe Award and student-ofthe-month ice cream parties;
Projects and involvements for the past school year include welcome back goodie bags for staff; journaling with classrooms; collecting Hy-Vee receipts, box tops, Kwik Trip, Subway and Target card rebates; supporting the Fall Festival with donations of time, money and prizes; providing winter clothing and school supplies for needy students; and providing snacks for holiday classroom and birthday parties. The partners also provide Attendance Achievers incentive prizes; organize and support the annual community Thanksgiv-
pass out meal sacks on Fridays; participated in the adopt-afamily program at Christmas; donated movie tickets for the Fabulous Falcon award; donated to the Irving Uniform Closet; provided materials for the 100th day of school activities; and assisted with family nights. They also participated in the e-pals program, corresponding with fifth-graders, as well as assisted with underwriting the cost of a guest author’s book for each family, supplemented the Shoes That Fit program, donated school supplies, Team Mate mentors and Reading Buddies; and provided brain food and
pencils for testing. Students caroled at partners’ businesses during the holidays. Fifth-grader Germaine Caley said, “I like the partnership because they make me feel good about myself — knowing that someone cares.” When asked why the Church Row Historical Neighborhood Association became a partner, association representative Mary Potter said, “If the people in the neighborhood can’t be supportive of these children, who can? These are children living in our neighborhood; if they’re going to be good citizens it’s up to us to help them.”
“Lowell Partners in Education are a vital part of the day-to-day operations of our school. Our motto is ‘Make Every Minute Count,’ and our partners surely do that for us every minute of every day and every day of the year. We can’t thank you enough,” added Gustafson.
am stronger UNIIthan ever! our future is brighter than ever. For more than 135 years, we have been preparing students for careers in education, for success in business and for the knowledge and skills needed in today’s global environment.
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Becker students, partners share strong connection WATERLOO — Becker Elementary School students have strong connections with their partners: AMVETS, CenturyTel, Friendship Village, the Department of Correctional Services, Iowa Community Credit Union, Sigma Epsilon Fraternity, WaterlooCedar Falls Symphony Orchestra, Letter Carriers and the University of Northern Iowa. Becker students wrote letters and postcards for the veterans on the honor ight out of Waterloo, and one veteran came to the school to meet and thank the student who wrote him a letter. A World War II veteran spoke with third- through ďŹ fth-grades and AMVETS representatives held a ag-lowering ceremony before doors closed at Edison. The school merged with Black Hawk school. Student, including 9-year-old Hannah Lovegren, expressed appreciation for AMVETS doing the ag ceremony, and Kamiah Evans, 8, appreciated the AMVETS for organizing “the Honor ight so we could make cards to veterans.â€? Isaac Bonefas, 9, said, “I am thankful for the veterans and the men and women sacriďŹ ced their lives so we could have freedom.â€? Damarcus White and Dreshaun Barker, both 9, are “grateful because the veterans fought in the war for our freedom,â€? White said. “We wouldn’t have freedom without veterans,â€? Barker noted. UNI provides extended learning opportunities in environmental science for ďŹ fth-graders, Friendship Village hosts an academic awards dinner honoring ITBS students and their families. CenturyTel employees are pen pals with a third-grade class, provides a tour and bought books for each student and the class library. Other partners are pen-pals with classes, too, and collect HyVee receipts, box tops and labels and collect school supplies for students, as well as adopts a family during the holiday season. “I really appreciate that we are
“I am thankful for the veterans and the men and women sacriďŹ ced their lives so we could have freedom.â€? Isaac Bonefas student at Becker Elementary School
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pen pals with DCS because they write us nice letters,� said 8year-old Jakob Creswell. Manya Williams, 9, said being pen pals “helps me to be a better writer,� and Tamia Gray, 9, appreciates “that my pen pal is an adult who wants to get to know me.� ICCU attends the Fall Fun Fair and helps students set up bank
accounts. Music Director Jason Weinberger from the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony Orchestra presents a program to fourth- and ďŹ fth-graders prior to orchestra members playing music prior to the school’s awards banquet. One student has the opportunity to be guest conductor.
Partnering to strengthen education for all‌
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Lincoln students appreciate PIE involvement dent and chief executive officer of the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance and Chamber. Partners participate in the Community Thanksgiving dinner and canned food give away again this year, and were involved in a clothing drive to provide dress code items for the school’s clothes closet. CBE purchased clothing items, and River’s Edge Christian Church donated hats, mittens, gloves and scarves. Partners also participate in the adopt-a-family program during the holidays, as well as providing financial and volunteer support for classroom supplies, recess equipment, field trips, My Waterloo Days parade supplies and raffle items for the school carnival, as well as mentoring, working in classrooms and volunteering during family nights. CBE donates money raised from their jeans days in December to Lincoln, and Principal Financial Group donated funds raised from Books are Fun. The Waterloo Black Hawks have volunteered at many monthly Meals for Minds.
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Celebrating 100 years of people advancing people in Black Hawk County
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WATERLOO — Lincoln Elementary School has been able to do some great things because of their “fantastic” partners, said PIE school coordinator Carrie Heinzerling. The school’s partners are CBE Group, Cedar Valley Community Healthcare, EPICS, Greater Cedar Valley Alliance and Chamber, International Paper Co., Parkview Nursing and Rehab Center, Principal Financial Group, US Bank, University of Iowa, VGM & Associates, Waterloo Black Hawks, River’s Edge Christian Church and Waterloo Fire and Rescue. Fourth- and fifth-graders are partnered with pen pals; the fourth-graders with CBE Group and fifth-graders with Principal Financial Group. In May, the pen pals will get to meet and have lunch together. “I really like the way the pen pals write to us because it is interesting. Sometimes they send us stuff, and it is like we have a buddy beside us. I am excited to meet my pen pal in May,” said fifth-grader Tyteria Jackson. “I think it is a good way to communicate and it teaches us to be better writers,” said fifth-grader Seven Scott. “The pen pals ask us how we did on tests or other things that are important to us. I had written about my wrestling meet, and the next month my partner asked me how it went.” Student of the month awards are presented, and include a lunch and tour with a partner, and the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance and Chamber puts the names of the students of the month in the Chamber newsletter. Each month, the school’s art teacher puts together an art show for each partner. At the monthly meeting, partners trade the old artwork for a new display. “Our member investors love to see the students’ artwork hanging in our offices. We appreciate the opportunity to support our local education system and our future,” said Steve Dust, presi-
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SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012
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Partners teach responsibility to Kittrell students WATERLOO — Kittrell Elementary School students are participating in a mini Relay for Life on April 30, walking during the school day and holding penny wars in their classrooms to raise money for cancer research. The school has been partnered with the American Cancer Society since 2006. During ACS Daffodil Days, students decorated Vases of Hope that were ďŹ lled with daffodils and could be purchased to send anonymously to cancer patients. “The kids enjoy reaching out to others that are going through a tough time by using their talents in art class to decorate the vases,â€? said art teacher Linda Harris. Other Partners in Education are Veridian, Target, Optimist Club, InVision Architecture, Olive Garden restaurant, Ridgeway Place, Immanuel Presbyterian Church, Hammond Avenue Brethren Church, Old Navy and the Other Place restaurant. Veridian Credit Union has a student-run Six Pillars Credit Union at the school where ďŹ fthgraders work alongside Veridian employees and learn responsibility. Verdian employees teach students about money and saving, and students deposit money into their accounts weekly. Fifth-graders Erin Timm, Paris Gantt and Nick Samuelson enjoy working at the school credit union. “I really like to work with Veridian because we see new faces every time and get to know new people,â€? said Gantt. “The Six Pillar Credit Union give Veridian employees like myself the opportunity to teach children how important saving money is,â€? said Veridian employee Angelina Lingua. Fourth-graders, the special needs class and Veridian, Ridgeway Place, InVision Architecture, Hammond Avenue Brethren Church and American Cancer Society employees are pen pals and meet at a pizza party. “This creates a friendship and a bond that all look forward to building over the year of writing,â€? said Mandy Faes from Veridian.
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Kittrell-designed holiday cards.
Each child is given a water bottle from Veridian during their birthday month, and Veridian employees visit the classrooms to sing “Happy Birthday.â€? Veridian also used student art work for their business holiday greeting cards. This year was the ďŹ rst year that an e-card was also created with student art work. In May, the fourth- and ďŹ fthgrade honor choir sing in the lobbies at Veridian, InVision Archi-
tecture and Ridgeway Place. As the school year ends, students with perfect attendance attend a pizza party provided by Veridian, Ridgeway Place, InVision Architecture, Olive Garden, Immanuel Presbyterian Church and Hammond Avenue Presbyterian Church. Partners provide games, prizes and volunteers at the Ice Cream Social and particpate in the My Waterloo Days parade.
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Busy partnerships at Cunningham thrive WATERLOO — Fifth-grader grader Nia Crowley enjoyed the 5K run/walk at Dr. Walter Cunningham School for Excellence because the school’s Partners in Education helped raise “a lot of money for our school. Our partners are the best!” Partners are city of Waterloo, Boy Scouts, KBBG-FM, AFFINA, Community National Bank, Jesse Cosby Neighborhood Center, Unity Neighborhood Association, St. Timothys UMC Church, Cedar Falls, Gates Park Optimists Club, Hellman Associates, Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church and the Martin Luther King Center. Another favorite activity is the monthly Shining Stars Breakfast. Partners arrive early to prepare a pancake breakfast for students who have been named Shining Stars for the month and parents. Second-grader Ruby Chris likes the Good Character Breakfast because she earns it by being respectful and doing her work. “It’s fun and cool to get to go. My favorite part is when they give you a pencil and sticker because I like getting different stuff for doing something good.” Community National Bank employees journal with students. Many of the same employees who journaled with fourth-graders last year are paired with the same students now in fifth-grade. “It is nice that they have continued that special relationship. One of the highlights is having lunch with students,” said Marcy Borwig of Community National Bank. “My journaling partner ... is very nice! I look forward to her writing to me every month. She decorated our journal. I hope to meet her one day when she comes to my school for lunch,” said fifth-grader Shaqueena Mitchell. Tylin Williams, a fifth-grader, likes volunteers Mr. and Mrs. Capps from St. Timothy’s.
Partners also make phone calls to remind parents about parent/teacher conferences, and support and participate in such activities as roller skating, ice skating, bowling, field trips, holiday celebrations, the adopt-a-family program, the
My Waterloo Days parade float, purchasing items for the 100th day of school celebration, guest reading, mentoring and providing raffles and volunteering at the spring carnival. Students visit partners during the holidays to carol.
Proud sponsor of bright ideas. COURTESY PHOTO
Mr. and Mrs. Capps, members of Partners in Education St. Timothys United Methodist Church, and Tylin Williams and Nia Crowley, fifthgraders, count HyVee receipts. “They are always happy and nice to the kids at Cunningham. Every week they collect HyVee receipts, Milk Moola caps and
box tops. Then they total these for our school. We are able to use the money to get new things for our school.”
SUPPORTING CEDAR VALLEY STUDENTS OUR FUTURE LEADERS
Bertch is honored to partner with I.C./St. Joe’s in Gilbertville & Raymond
Waterloo • Cedar Falls
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012
Partners at Expo teach responsibility WATERLOO — Partners in Education at Expo Alternative Learning Center are helping create responsible citizens, and increase students’ self-esteem through their support and participation. Partners are People’s Clinic, YWCA, Sunrise Exchange Club, Waterloo Exchange Club, Consumer Credit Counseling, Texas Road House and Professional Business Women. “We appreciate our partners for their time and efforts,” said Tammy Kinnetz, Expo’s PIE representative. Sunrise Exchange Club offered the Accepting the Challenge of Excellence or ACE award with winners receiving recognition. “It was great honor and first time experience to get in front of an adult group and speak about myself,” said Stephanie Chase, an award recipient. Her Oasis teacher, Norma Neubauer, praised the partnership. “It was my first time participating with this award and group. We are very fortunate to have contact with The Exchange Club for the benefit of our students.” Texas Road House supplements the school’s special-occasion meals, such as teacher appreciation luncheons and various student holiday meals. “We’re proud to be able to partner with organizations in our community,” said a spokesperson for Texas Road House. Consumer Credit Counseling teaches financial literacy and the YWCA assists young parents.
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East High partners: Students on right track WATERLOO — East High School shares partnerships with Regions Bank, Elks Lodge No. 290, Bethany Bible Chapel, John Deere Drive Train Department 18S and Prairie Lakes Church. This year, PIE assisted with registration of students for school and provided refreshments. “The office staff really appreciated the help with registration. It made it a much smoother process, and I think the parents enjoyed the change as well,” said secretary Becky Brackin. Partners also served refreshments made by EHS culinary arts students and assisted with volunteer JROTC students helping guests at the senior citizen performance of annual swing show, as well as the Alumni Tea and refreshments during the homecoming celebration. They also provide a student of the month luncheon and recognition reception and a staff of the month award and recognition. “Being Student of the Month was fun. It was my first time being selected for it, and I feel like it gave me lots of opportunities,” said Jaquasia Love, Octo-
“It’s an honor and a pleasure meeting the students and their families. East High has so many untold stories and unsung heroes within their students and faculty, and I know we only get to meet a small percentage of the wonderful people there.” Joan Boyland Regions Bank representative
ber student of the month. Jasmine Buls, the September recipient, said “it was an honor for me to be picked. It showed me that someone is always watching out for me and letting me know that my hard work, respect and responsibility pays off.” November recipient Antonio Hutchins said the award was “a great way to show students that they are on the right track and I never knew anyone was watching or noticing; I was just being me.” PIE cleans the grounds before homecoming and other events, individually mentor students and host fundraisers to support students and staff.
“It’s an honor and a pleasure meeting the students and their families. East High has so many untold stories and unsung heroes within their students and faculty, and I know we only get
to meet a small percentage of the wonderful people there,” said Regions Bank representative Joan Boyland. “Being a Partner in Education with East High gives you an opportunity to get past the realm of perception and opinion, and gets you in touch personally with the students themselves. It reminds you that we have some great kids and some great parents in our community. I’m so grateful that we get a chance to encourage these families, and be encouraged by their example,” said Jesse Tink of Prairie Lakes Church.
Proud to be a partner with Cunningham School for Excellence Winnebago Council, Boy Scouts of America Character does Count!
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Ambassador program gives students at Cedar Heights more confidence CEDAR FALLS — Cedar Heights Elementary School Principal Jon Weibers praises the ambassador/mentors program between fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade students and their partners. “The impact the ambassador program has on our students is not measurable. What our students gain through their ambas-
sador is not measurable. They have helped students our students gain confidence, and students also have another person as a positive role model,” he said. Their partners are Lattins Photography, Struxtures Architect, Next Generation Wireless and Prudential Reality. Partners serve as pen pals to
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second-graders and read several times a year to kindergarten, first- and second-graders. They provide supplies such as winter coats and mittens for students and families in need, and support the school’s PTA as members and contributors to the annual Fun Fair. Partners also adopt a family at Christmas.
Cedar Falls Lincoln partners send students message about learning CEDAR FALLS — Lincoln Elementary School staff believes participation of partners in school activities that support students is a top priority. “One of the things I love about Lincoln is that we are truly a learning community. The involvement of our community volunteers sends a strong message to our students that everyone is ‘about all of us learning.’ They are leaders of learning. I feel fortunate we have such exceptional volunteers at Lincoln,” said counselor Andrea Christopher. Partners are the city offices of Cedar Falls, First United Methodist Church and Oakridge Realtors. First Methodist provides volunteers weekly who work with second-graders to develop basic reading, writing and math skills, help students rehearse for books and poems they’ll read aloud and help students who have been absent. This month, eight volunteers will help second-graders in Mrs. Husmann’s room with a crossstitching project. Volunteers work with sixthgraders during math intervention periods weekly. PIE also help with Wacky Winterfest, the school carnival and fund-raiser, and the church donates funds for
students’ emergency needs such as winter gear and shoes, as well as providing child care during literacy nights and kindergarten roundup. PIE volunteers also gather at Lincoln to help with raking and spring landscaping. With partnerships between Lincoln and the city of Cedar
Falls, various departments provide numerous activities. The police department provides guest readers annually, and fire fighters read and present safety basics. The Cedar Falls Public Library provides informational programs and hosts a visit so students can get their library cards.
Partners in Education Orange Elementary School
LASTING PARTNERSHIPS Allen Hospital and Allen College were the first Partners in Education with the Waterloo Community Schools. We are still proud partners today with the George Washington Carver Academy, our friends and neighbors. Allen Hospital and Allen College have served the Cedar Valley for 87 years. Like good partners everywhere, we are here when you need us.
allenhospital.org
allencollege.edu
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012
PIE From page 5 ■ Poyner Elementary & Elk Run Preschool: John Deere Foundry, City of Elk Run Heights, HyVee – Crossroads, JCPenney Co., Tyson Fresh Meats, City of Evansdale, First Security State Bank, Tyson Prepared Foods/ Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Service Roofing Company, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, Countryside Vineyard Church, Evansdale Economic Development Corp. ■ Bunger Middle: First Congregational Church UCC, Peters Construction Corp., The Other Place, Farmers Insurance –The Kinder Agency. ■ Central Middle: John Deere Product Engineering Center (PEC), Upper Iowa University, Heartland Vineyard Church, Payne African Methodist Episcopal Church, Family YMCA of Black Hawk County, HyVee-University Avenue, Iowa Legal Aid Waterloo Regional Office, BANKIOWA, Cadillac Lanes. ■ George Washington Carver Academy: Allen Health Systems & Allen Colleg, HyVee-Logan Avenue, Tri City Clothing, Gates Park Neighborhood Association, Advantage Screen Print & Embroidery, Antioch Baptist Church, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Wartburg College, National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum. ■ Hoover Middle: Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare, Airgas, League of Women Voters of Black Hawk-Bremer Counties, RE/MAX Home Group, Craft Cochran, Inc. ■ East High School: Regions Bank, John Deere Drive Train Division, Waterloo Elks Lodge No. 290, Bethany Bible Church, Prairie Lakes Church. ■ Expo High School: YWCA, Consumer Credit Counseling Service of NE Iowa, Waterloo Exchange Club, Sunrise Exchange Club, Peoples Community Health Clinic, Waterloo Business and Professional Women, First Presbyterian Church. ■ West High School: John Deere Engine Works, Kaplan University, The Other Place, Heartland Vineyard Church, Far Reach Technologies. ■ Partners at Large: Big Brothers-Big Sisters, Black Hawk County Extension, Black Hawk Children’s Theatre, D&L Subway, Inc., Family & Children’s Council, Grout Museum District, Girl Scouts of Conestoga Council, Junior Achievement, R.J. McElroy Trust, Retired & Senior Volunteer Program, Kuhn Chiropractic, Warren Transport , Greater Cedar Valley Chamber of Commerce, Waterloo Center for the Arts, Waterloo Leisure Services, PRIDE, Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, Valley Park Lanes, Back To School Project, Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, Rotary Club of Waterloo, Hawkeye Community College, Young Plumbing & Heating, Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area , Happy Joe’s, Orchard Hill, Boys & Girls Club of Black Hawk County, Waterloo Community Schools Foundation.
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Hansen impressed by partners’ support CEDAR FALLS — Sartori Hospital, First National Bank, Mix 96 and Martin Brothers are partnered with Hansen Elementary School. As the school year ends, partners host an end-of-school picnic for sixth-graders and their families at the Sartori dining room. Sartori and Martin Brothers provide food, First National Bank provides a Karaoke machine and the Mix provides a DJ. On the last-day-of-school assembly, First National Bank gives a good citizenship award, and the Mix presents a communication award. Martin Brothers donates a gift certificate to
a parent(s) who make a deserving contribution to Hansen. First National Bank donates practice checks to sixth-graders and, along with the Mix, sponsors a career fair for sixthgraders that features speakers in various careers. In addition, sixth-graders attend a career fair in health care at Sartori, where they visit various departments. “Children get an up-closeand-personal look at a hospital. This allows them to be more comfortable in this atmosphere if they ever need to be there. It also helps us teach children about caring for others in our community,” said first-grade
teacher Mrs. Kirchner. Second-grade teacher Mrs. Schulte praises the hospital’s ‘haunted hallway’ put together during Halloween for second-graders. “It’s always the highlight of the field trip. We appreciate the time and effort put in by the hospital staff to make our visit fun. We know that this is a commitment of both time and money and we are grateful to the employees for providing all the smiles.” First-graders carol through the halls of the hospital during the holidays, and the fifthand sixth-grade choir and band perform for staff. All grade lev-
els create tray favors for the hospital on various holidays, and decorate a tree for the Sartori Festival of Trees. Each partner adopts a Hansen family and provides gifts. Student artwork is displayed at Sartori and First National Bank. Jen Alexander, Hansen counselor, is impressed by the giving of the partners. “We continue to be impressed with how giving our partners are. We, along with the families who receive help because of their gifts, are truly thankful. In this and so many other ways, our partners in education make a difference at Hansen.”
Orchard Hill students, partners share activities CEDAR FALLS — Orchard Hill Elementary participates in partnerships with Porter’s Camera, REMAX Realtor Sandy Stuber and the Pizza Ranch Each year Porter’s photographs
students and produces a Red Ribbon poster that students can purchase. They also designed this year’s first Leader in Me poster. “They donate their services to
us every year for this cause,” said Principal Kim Cross. Sandy Stuber with RE/MAX has donated prizes for the Fun Fair prize room and helps run the room.
Pizza Ranch feeds the staff at the fall kick-off meeting, and help run a booth at the Fun Fair. In addition, they donate prizes to students for different accomplishments.
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Long-term, new partnerships beneďŹ t Highland students WATERLOO — A back-to-school social, books for students at the holidays to encourage reading and student of the month honors are among activities involving partners with Highland Elementary School. Partners are Nazareth Lutheran Church, Breath of Life Four Square Church, Trinity Episcopal Church, John Deere, Lincoln Savings Bank and Petersen & Tietz Florists and Greenhouses. John Deere has been a partner for 25 years, and Omega Cabinetry has been involved at the school for one year. “As a PIE representative, I am able to work with students in a lot of fun ways and am able to know staff and students on a personal level. It’s exciting to provide extra opportunities to students and serve Highland staff,â€? said a representative
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from Breath of Life Four Square Church. Partners also participate in the My Waterloo Days parade, carnation sales and PAWS for you, in which teachers recognize other
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