Sunday, April 27, 2014
www.wcfcourier.com partners in education Page 1
Page 2 partners in education
www.wcfcourier.com
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Superintendent’s message: PIE still expanding after 27 years GARY NORRIS
Waterloo Schools Superintendent
As we get close to the end of the 2013-2014 school year, we want to take this time to thank all our businesses, organizations, churches and families for partnering with us. We have started some new Gary Norris partnerships and superintendent have grown our existing ones. This school year has been a very busy one for the district. Our teachers and staff have worked really hard. 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. I’m pleased to share that starting this fall we will begin our International Baccalaureate Program at both East and West High Schools. The IB program is a highly challenging two-year program for juniors and seniors. This extremely rigorous program extends students’ perspectives, deepens their core knowledge and allows them to broaden their understanding of national and international studies. The IB program encourages students to become an active part of change in their community and beyond through the creative, action and service requirement. In addition, we have had started some great conversations through our High School Task Force to focus on the future of our high schools in Waterloo. This is a very exciting time to live in Waterloo and have children in the Waterloo Community Schools. In the next couple of months, we be asking for your input so we can improve the education for all
students in order for us to build a strong 21st century K-12 System. The new model will be rich in inquiry-based learning that will inspire critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The students will experiment with hands-on and relevant learning that will help prepare students for a postsecondary education or entry into the work force. We know that the future of the Cedar Valley and global economy depends on preparing our young people for future careers that are either currently unfilled or have yet to be created. The Waterloo Schools is truly blessed to work with some of the best businesses and organizations in the Cedar Valley. We know that as we move forward with our 21st century high school initiative that the involvement and support of our partners will be critical. 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. As we conclude our 27th year of the Partners in Education program and our fourth year of Career Interest Academies at the high school level, we know continuing to grow our network and involvement in the community is beneficial for the entire Cedar Valley. While better preparing our young people for their own career preparation, it also helps to provide highly skilled employees for the Cedar Valley. Together we are building a more vibrant future. Wherever our students create their futures, they will be ready to succeed. They will be global thinkers themselves, ready for a
4-H’ers EXCEL! 4
ORE
XM • Nearly likely to make CONTRIBUTIONS to their COMMUNITIES • About
lifetime of choices that are truly limitless. After 42 years as an educator, 32 of those as a superintendent, and the last six in Waterloo, I am truly grateful and honored to have been a part of the Waterloo Schools and the communities it serves. Thank you for the support you gave me the last six years. I urge you continue to support our new
superintendent, Dr. Jane Lindaman. I am excited to see all the great things that are happening in the district to move all our students forward. Thank you to all of our committed parents, employees and our community partners. We know that by working together, we will have better prepared students for college, career and citizenship.
Proud to be a partner with Cunningham School for Excellence Winnebago Council, Boy Scouts of America
proud partner in education with
EAST HIGH SCHOOL
2X MORE likelyy to be CIVICALLY ACTIVE 2X MORE likelyy to par participate in
• Nearl Nearly SCIENCE PROGRAMS PROGRAMS during out-of-school time •
likelyy (Grade 10) and nearly nearl 2X MORE likel likelyy (Grade 12) to take lik tak part E R SCIENCE PR PROGRAMS in 3X MO compar compared ed to girls in other
• Nearl Nearly
2X MORE
activities out-of-school time a likelyy to make lik mak HEALTHIER CHOICES
CallToday! 319-234-6811 www.extension.iastate.edu/blackhawk
waterloo campus SUNDAYS @ 11AM
118 HIGH STREET WATERLOO, IOWA
prairielakeschurch.org
Sunday, April 27, 2014
www.wcfcourier.com partners in education Page 3
Long-term partnerships valued at Kittrell Elementary Kittrell Elementary School is celebrating a 25-year Partners in Education relationship. While different employees have participated in the partnership over the years, teachers Linda Harris and Sarah Goodwin and Principal Audrey WallicanGreen said “one thing has never changed. Veridian has been committed to the Partners in Education program and has always maintained a steadfast relationship to our students and staff.” Other partners are Target, Optimist Club, In Vision Architecture, Olive Garden restaurant, Ridgeway Place, the American Cancer Society, Unity Presbyterian Church, Hammond Brethen Avenue Church, The Other Place and Old Navy. Partners help make the Winter Carnival a success by providing games, prizes and volunteers. Each child is given a drawstring bag from Veridian Credit Union during their birthday month. Veridian employees visit classrooms to sing “Happy Birthday” and pass out the bags. Kittrell fourth-graders, the special needs class and employ-
COURTESY PHOTO
Perfectattendance students at Kittrell enjoy a PIEsponsored pizza luncheon. ees of Veridian, Ridgeway Place, monthly basis. Pen pals met faceHammond Avenue Brethren to-face at a pizza party in January. Church and In Vision Architecture Veridian has a student-run correspond with each other on a credit union at the school, Six
Pillars Credit Union, where fifth-graders can work alongside Veridian employees and learn job responsibilities. Students learn
to save regularly by depositing their Paws Laws tickets to their accounts. Veridian also uses fifthgrade student art work for their business holiday greeting card and e-card, “Partnering with Kittrell Elementary School has been a very rewarding experience for Veridian staff. We enjoy building relationships with the students by visiting the classrooms and helping with Kittrell activities,” said Julie VanDaele, public relations strategist at Veridian. In May, the Kittrell Chorus members sang at Veridian, In Vision and Ridgeway Place. In addition, students will participate in a Mini Relay for Life during May. They also will walk during the Relay Recess Week and hold penny wars in their classrooms to raise money for cancer research. As the school year ends, students with perfect attendance attend a pizza party in the lunch room to honor their special achievement. Lunch is provided by Veridian, Ridgeway Place, Olive Garden, Unity Presbyterian Church and Hammond Avenue Brethren Church.
Central students get recognition Central Middle School enjoys partnerships with three businesses through the Partners in Education program: University Avenue Hy-Vee Food Store, Upper Iowa University and Bank Iowa. Upper Iowa provides students of the month and their parents with pizza and refreshments during their lunch period. HyVee recognizes the students of the month and their families and the Central staff with an evening meal. The store has also helped with purchasing ice cream for annual ice cream socials to recognize students who are following the three R’s — respect, responsibility and readiness. Bank Iowa has helped assist multiple families at Central by providing them with uniforms and other school items.
PROUD PARTNERS WITH LOU HENRY SCHOOL Help place today’s news in the hands of tomorrow’s leaders. Support NewSpaper iN educatioN. MEMBER FDIC
Building Your Success
• Advanced Diagnostic Imaging • Cedar Valley Community Church • Cedar Valley Hospice • Central Christian Church • Farmers State Bank • Den Herder Veterinary Hospital • Oakridge Realtors • Short’s Travel • Lowe’s
to learn how you can help provide a classroom with free daily newspapers, contact Sarah Smith: 319.291.1514 | sarah.smith@wcfcourier.com
Page 4 partners in education
www.wcfcourier.com
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Partnerships offer opportunities, benefits to Lincoln students Kingsley shares strong, supportive relationships K ingsley Elementary School has built a strong relationship with each of their six Partners in Education: Manor Care, Vanderloo Chiropractic, Midwest One, Northern Iowa Cardiovascular Thoracic Surgery Clinic, KWWL-TV and Westminster Presbyterian Church. P I E- re l a te d a c t iv i t i e s include assisting with Kingsley Meet the Teacher Night and Kingsley’s Ice Cream Social, staff appreciation activities and guest speakers to provide real-world learning opportunities for students. Fifth-grade teacher Stacy Harmon said PIE has been supportive in the student’s education. “Dr. Vanderloo came into our class and helped students make connections with what we are studying to the real world.” Se co n d - g ra d e tea c h e r Shawn Brauer thanked PIE for “being willing to not only help our student families and our students, but for taking care of us as teachers and staff, too. I enjoy the lunches, the small tokens of appreciation and the support that our PIE provide.” First-graders have enjoyed learning about weather from KWWL, said first-grade teacher Jenny Kresser. “We have had different anchors come and talk about things we were studying in science and social studies. They were also a great help at Christmas time, adopting a couple of families in need of support.” Fo u r t h - g ra d e rs e n j oy receiving pen-pal letters and monthly visits from their partners at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
Lincoln Elementary School in Waterloo enjoys their partnerships with local businesses, says Assistant Principal Adam Ahrendsen. “It provides a variety of opportunities for our students and staff. I appreciate all the support they provide that benefits our fantastic school.” Partners in Education participants are VGM, CBE Group, River’s Edge Christian Church, Waterloo Blackhawks, Greater Cedar Valley Alliance and Chamber, Principal Financial Group, US Bank, KBBG Radio, International Paper Co., Waterloo Fire and Rescue, Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Cedar Valley Community Healthcare. PIE-related activities include monthly student of the month lunch hosted at the partners’ business with a tour; tickets for students to attend a production at Black Hawk Children’s Theatre; encouraging notes to students taking the Iowa Assessment and pairing with fourthand fifth-graders as pen pals. Partners also volunteered to help serve at the community Thanksgiving dinner, as well as providing food for the event and displaying
COURTESY PHOTO
VGM PIE participants and students of the month from Waterloo’s Lincoln Elementary School. artwork at their businesses. Spokespeople from various partnerships expressed their pride in the partnerships: “The Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber is proud to support our Cedar Valley schools through the Partner in Education program. Lincoln Elementary in Waterloo is a great partner. One of our favorite partnerships is hosting the Students of the Month at our office for a special luncheon. It is a great opportu-
CONGRATULATIONS 2014
WATERLOO MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE FAIR WINNERS! Caitlyn Gilbert & Ajla Hadzalic Alyssa Standridge Sabrina Anderson & BrookeTomkins Sabur Muhammad Ethan Geiger Thatcher Hollis Savannah Brooks & Cora Fecht Taylor Tharp Trinessa Handt & Samantha amantha Landis Nyja Scottt & Laura Govea Govea Regan Davis & Alyson Hurley Stephanie Rasco & Maya VanErem VanErem Thank You SponSorS! Waterloo Community Schools Foundation Leighty Foundation
nity to introduce students to a business setting, as well as congratulate the students on their accomplishments.” “VGM values its partnership with Lincoln. We enjoy working with the students and watching them grow and succeed.” “CBE Companies enjoys the opportunities and joys of being a part of Partners in Education with Lincoln Elementary School. Our employees have fun participating in the Pen Pal exchanges
with students and the Pizza Party at the end of the school year. The personal connection between associates and students is gratifying.” Braylie Roszell, a secondgrader said, “I liked being able to go and see their business and eat with our partners.” Fifth-grader Maki LeFlore noted that “having a pen pal is fun because it gives a chance to communicate with new people. I like meeting and talking with new people.”
Sunday, April 27, 2014
www.wcfcourier.com partners in education Page 5
Poyner students, partners work together as a community EVANSDALE — Poyner Elementary School describes itself as “a community when everyone (parents, school, businesses, community members, etc.) work together to educate and support our students,” said the school’s PIE coordinator Jennifer Willand. The school’s partners are Countryside Vineyard, Crossroads Hy-Vee Catering, City of Evansdale Police, Barnes and Noble, Evansdale City Clerk, John Deere Foundry Production Control, First Security State Bank and Countryside Vinyard Church.
Also Elk Run Early Childhood Center, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, John Deere Foundry/ Pattern Development, Tyson Fresh Meats, Tyson Prepared Foods, JCPenney, St. Marks Church and Service Roofing. “We can always count on our Partners. Whatever we need, they are more than accommodating,” said Sherri Snow (2/3 instructional strategist), thirdgrade teachers Annie Cavanaugh, Reese Grafft, Angel Munson, Erin Studt and second-grade teachers Mike Bolick, Patti Surma and Angie Webb.
“Our partners have helped provide opportunities for my students to take leadership in caring for their classroom and building through items such as cleaning supplies,” said Caitlyn Sittig, instructional strategist teacher for kindergarten through third-grade. In December, students conducted a book fair at Barnes and Nobles and created bookmarks for customers and wrapped presents. School staff purchased sack lunches from Tyson to benefit local non-profit agencies. Several partners donated items
for PBIS Spirit Rewards, snacks during testing week, May Day baskets and Thanksgiving baskets and Christmas baskets for needy families. “The pencil sharpeners donated by our partners have been amazing. Students are able to have pencils sharpened and are prepared to work each day,”
said fourth-grade teacher Teri Thompson. “The dry erase markers helped me write my numbers to 100,” said kindergartner Avery Seible. Fourth-grader Justus Walker said, “All of our school really appreciates all [the partners] do for us. We would not be as great without you!”
Partners helping Lowell students Lowell Elementary School’s Partners in Education are a vital part of the day-to-day operations of the school. “Our motto is ‘Make Every Minute Count’ and our partners surely do that for us,” said Carole Gustafson, family support worker. Partners in Education are Black Hawk County, Cadillac Lanes, Country View, Cornerstone Fellowship Church, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., First Wesleyan Church, Grace Fellowship Church, Grainger Parts, Horace Mann Insurance, Lincoln Savings Bank, Nestle USA and Northeast Iowa Family Practice Center. Partners interact and support Lowell in numerous ways, including journaling with classrooms, collecting Hy-Vee receipts, Box Tops for Education, Kwik Trip, Subway and Target card rebates, and supporting the Fall Festival with time, funds and prizes. Partners also provide winter clothing and school supplies for needy students, snacks for holiday classroom and birthday parties and prizes for Iowa Skills tests and Attendance Achievers. In addition, partners help organize and support the Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner and Food Distribution, assist
in the adopt-a-family program, provide incentives for Lowell’s “Read to Ride” program and provide funds to buy new books and gently used books for the Lowell STARS Book Store. Partners provide lunch for staff during conferences and give incentives to fifth-graders on Safety Patrol and volunteer as mentors.
They provide funds for an Annual Volunteer Breakfast, organize bake sales and other events to support families of critically ill students. They also provide fourthand fifth-graders opportunities to shadow professionals and explore careers through field trips and A Day in Court.
Cooperative. Adaptable. Self Directed. Based on Dr. Stephen Covey’s, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, The Leader in Me is an investment into all educators and students in your school. By intentionally infusing the 7 Habits and authentic leadership opportunities, students will develop key skills needed academically, and the tools of effectiveness needed for life. Put your school on the path to greatness. www.cedarvalleyalliance.com/leadervalley
A workforce development initiative of the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber
Page 6 partners in education Partners
www.wcfcourier.com
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Hands-on partners willing to step in and help at East High East High School shares enthusiastic partnerships with Bethany Bible Chapel, Regions Bank, Elks Lodge No. 290, John Deere Drive Train, Division, Storey Kenworthy and Prairie Lakes Church. The first Alumni Homecoming Tailgating event proved successful, and partners provided breakfast for the spirit rally. Dinner was provided for the pep rally and students preparing cheers for the district playoff at Cedar Falls. “Being part of East High’s COURTESY PHOTO Partners in Education and get- East High students participate in an archeological dig in their technical ting to celebrate all the won- writing class. derful students and staff we have is a highlight of my job,” said Maggie Mnayer, East’s PIE representative. Kittrell Elementary “Our partners are not only committed to East High in name, but in actions. They are hands-on and make a huge difference in the community of Assisted Living our school. ‘‘They are proactive in seeking ways to meet the needs 155 E. Ridgeway Ave. • Waterloo, Iowa of our students and staff and impact our schools in ways that Sponsored by Wheaton Franciscan Sisters are impossible to measure.” The staff member of the month receives a plaque and gift cards, while students of the month are recognized at lunch receptions and award presentations. Jeremiah Harrison, January student of the month, described the event as “fun. It ® was nice having people notice me.” December’s student of the month Kyla Owens said the event “made me feel importa n t . T h ey rea l ly m a ke i t nice.” Many PIE members individually mentor students and have their own fundraisers to benefit students and staff. “Meeting the students from East H igh always inspires me. Their stories and their accomplishments always leave me encouraged,” said Lisa Etringer, John Deere Drivetrain Operations and PIE representative.
We Salute Our Partner In Education
319-272-2622
preparing students
“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 commu-
nity. I’m so grateful that we get a chance to encourage these families, and be encouraged by their example,” said Jesse Tink, who represents Prairie Lakes Church. Recently PIE members made 30 homemade pies to donate to the East High School music department fundraiser.
Looking for
Direction look to Allen College Associate of Science in Radiography (ASR) Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHS) Medical Laboratory Science Nuclear Medicine Technology Diagnostic Medical Sonography Dental Hygiene (Fall 2015) Public Health (Fall 2014) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Traditional, Upper Division 15-month Accelerated BSN LPN-BSN RN-BSN Part-time, Evening/Weekend
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) RN-MSN Nurse Practitioner tracks in four areas Nursing Education Nursing Leadership Community/Public Health Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Doctor of Education in Health Professions Education (Ed.D.)
Veridian Credit Union has built relationships with students at Kittrell Elementary School since 1989.
(319) 226-2000
www.allencollege.edu
Allen College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, marital status, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
www.wcfcourier.com partners in education Page 7
STEM prepares students for 21st century careers ANGELA HEWITT STEM Coordinator
A popular acronym buzzing around education and getting national attention is STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. So what exactly is it? STEM education is a cross-curricular approach to teaching and learning that integrates the content and practices of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. In Waterloo Community Schools, this means an emphasis on problem solving, creativity and inquiry over acquisition of obsolete facts. With a focus on STEM education, Waterloo seeks to prepare students for success in the 21st century workforce. With many baby boomers retiring and fewer students pursuing college or advanced training in STEM, the pipeline of qualified workers is drying up. In the Cedar Valley, jobs in manufacturing, logistics and information technology go unfilled due to a shortage of STEM-skilled workers. One way in which the Waterloo Community Schools have addressed this need for career-ready students is through the creation of Career Interest Academies
at both East and West High Schools. All of the academies, from ETM (Engineering, Technology and Manufacturing) and ACB (Arts, Communication and Business), to HHS (Health and Human Services), have the potential to lead students into STEM-related careers. Even when a student’s interest lies outside of STEM, the critical thinking and problem-solving skills gained through STEM programming will serve them well. STEM is also a strong component of the middle school curriculum in the Waterloo Schools. Due to generous support from the Waterloo Schools Foundation, all four middle schools have STEM labs that utilize Synergistic Learning Modules. Working in pairs, students use multimedia software and hands-on equipment to interact with the seven-day modules. Each module addresses a different topic and the topics are quite varied from forensic science and video production to breakfast nutrition and flight simulation. The STEM labs serve as applied learning centers where students must combine content and skills from science, math, language arts and technology in order to
complete the modules activities. This year, the Waterloo Schools along with the Grout Museum also hosted their first Middle School Science Fair. The district and Grout plan to continue the event which will created opportunities for students to present at other science fair competitions. At the elementary level, STEM programming happens in a variety of ways. One example is the LEGO WeDo robotics curriculum. Using the curriculum, students build LEGO models with working motors and sensors and then program these models to move and respond to the environment. The curriculum reinforces math and science concepts and helps students develop problem solving skills. In the Spring 2013, third- through fifth-grades implemented a STEM curriculum called “A World in Motion.” The curriculum is supported through a STEM scale-up grant and an ISU Extension & Outreach grant. AWIM blends science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts through the Engineering Design Experience. The EDE is structured to take students through a design experience as they engage in critical thinking, project man-
agement, communications, inquiry and analysis and teamwork and collaboration to solve an engineering design challenge. The Waterloo Schools also supports a wide variety of after-school STEM opportunities, including FIRST Lego League, FIRST Tech Challenge and FIRST Robotics teams. Another program, supported through a scale-up grant from the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Board, allows Waterloo students to learn multimedia, game design and cyber defense. In addition to the school-focused STEM activities, the first Cedar Valley Family STEM Festival took place last fall. The free event at the Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center drew an estimated crowd of 3,000 people. Effective STEM education relies on partnerships and collaboration between schools, community groups, businesses and higher education. In recent years, Waterloo Community Schools has established partnerships with a variety of stakeholders to further the goals of STEM. Special STEM events, tours, guest speakers and grants have strengthened the connection between STEM in the classroom and its application in the working world.
High-tech experiences shared with CF High partners Cedar Falls High School students are receiving technological education, experiences and support in robotics and Project Lead the Way. Participants are John Deere, John Deere Waterloo Operations, PTC, Desno International America, Inc., University of Northern Iowa Physics department, JG Business Services, Society of Manufacturing Engineers, University of Northern Iowa, Hawkeye Community College, Studio5@Mudd, Power Engineering and Manufacuturing, Air King, Partners in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Viking Pump, Iowa State University College of Engineering, DECO Tool Supply Co., Rockwell Collins, DIStek Integration and Accurate Gear.
Students are learning CAD, robotics and CNC machining and competing as a robotics team, among other activities. “The long-lasting partnership between John Deere and FIRST Robotics Team 525 has continued to benefit all who are involved. The students get the opportunity to experience many aspects of a real world product development project. They brainstorm solutions, develop solution concepts, conduct decision analyses, prototype, build and test the final design. The John Deere employees are able to share their passions with the students and give back to the community,” said Bruce Newendorp, a John Deere engineer and team mentor.
COURTESY PHOTO
Students participate in robotics projects at Cedar Falls High School.
Page 8 partners in education
www.wcfcourier.com
Sunday, April 27, 2014
PIE pen pals connect with appreciative Becker third-graders At Becker Elementary School, having a Partners in Education pen pal is more than a simple letter. It’s a sign of support that means a lot to third-graders. Ten-year-old Mya Grubbs says her pen pal is “deep down in my heart, and I will never forget her.” Kewone Jones, 8 ½, says he appreciates his pen pal telling him he’s doing well in school, “so I can reach my goal to be a basketball player.” Nineyear Darrin Hardy says his pen pals “make me feel special.” It’s the third year that Holly Hintzman’s students have written to pen pals at Friendship Village and Dupaco, formerly Iowa Community Credit Union. “I am so grateful for their investment in my students. It seems so simple to just write a letter to a child each month, but the value that that has on our kids means more than they will ever know,” she says. The school’s other Partners in Education are Century Link, Letter Carriers/AMVETS, University of Northern Iowa, the wcfsymphony and Department of Correctional Services. More than 100 UNI students work with teachers and students throughout the year, and the wcfsymphony made a presentation to the fourth- and fifth-graders, as well as providing their instrument petting zoo at the Fall Fun Fair. Funds raised at the wcfsymphony’s Lollipop concerts support the school’s activities and purchase of books. Partners volunteer and bake cakes for the Fall Fun Fair and are active at the Winter Carnival, along with donating coins. Partners mentor in different classrooms and for individual students, provide t-shirts and support for the school’s recycling program, provide Bosnian cake pops for the diversity celebration, donate funds raised at different events and provide bags for the recess patrol. They donate hats and mittens, work with the ELP program, help organize and collect and assemble gift bags for the
“I am so grateful for their investment in my students. It seems so simple to just write a letter to a child each month, but the value that has on our kids means more than they will ever know.’’ — Holly Hintzman
COURIER FILE PHOTO
Second-grader Tyrell Adams, left, and fourth-grader Bryce Gudgeon work together to collect recycling at Fred Becker Elementary School. women’s shelter, a service project started by second-graders. They also provided funds for a penny drive for The Cure Starts Now Foundation. Dupaco collected the pennies during the drive, and Becker students planned to send a check for
NURSING AND REHAB CENTER
more than $1200 to the foundation. Century Link helped the school start a recyling program by supporting a grant request for bins. Recycle Rite now picks up recycling every other week at no charge.
“PROVIDING THAT TRANSITION FROM
HOSPITAL ” to HOME
2651 St. Francis Dr. Waterloo, IA The Cedar Valley’s Premier Skilled Nursing Facility
(319) 232-6808
Proactive. Trustworthy. Respectful. The Leader in Me infuses Dr. Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People into K-12 school culture. From the moment you approach the school, walk the hallways, and enter the classroom, you are immediately immersed in a leadership culture where students are empowered! Experience the diffence. Learn more at www.cedarvalleyalliance.com/leadervalley
A workforce development initiative of the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber
Sunday, April 27, 2014
www.wcfcourier.com partners in education Page 9
Partnerships enrich Hoover students through support, activities, funds Partners begin their support at Hoover Middle School before students walk through the doors in August. “Our partners have enhanced and enriched our school and community immensely through their continued support of Hoover’s various activities throughout the year. They do an outstanding job of providing for and assisting with special events,” said Leina’ala Clark, counselor and PIE chair. Partners are Wheaten Franciscan Health Care, ReMax Realtors, League of Women Voters, Fareway Stores, Craft Cochran, Hansen’s Farm Fresh Dairy and 93.5 The Mix.
Cunningham’s partners provide ‘amazing’ support Mary Peterson, Title I teacher at Dr. Walter Cunningham School for Excellence, describes the school’s Partners in Education as “amazing. Because of them, we are able to do so many great things for the students.” Partners are Community Bank & Trust, St. Timothy’s Methodist Church, City of Waterloo, HGS, Waterloo Public Library, Hellman Associates, KBBG Radio, Jesse Cosby Neighborhood Association and Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. Partners sponsor Shining Stars Breakfasts and support the Adopta-Family, Cunningham 5K Run/ Walk and the Pen Pal program. Selected fourth- and fifth-graders visited partners to sing Christmas carols. Mr. and Mrs. Capps from St. Tim’s organize and count milk moola, box tops, printer cartridges and H-Vee receipts. City of Waterloo donated money to purchase Santa hats for kindergarteners’ holiday program, and HGS raised funds for an Amazon gift card to allow teachers to purchase books for new student Kindles. “Using the Kindles can help us with reading, which can help us get a higher score on our tests,” said fourth-grader Jayden Nenow.
At monthly meetings, partners and the Hoover team consider mutual needs, events and holiday activities. Hoover Middle is a Leader in Me school where students are learning and practicing the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Partners add an authentic layer of leadership to their lives. “I am grateful to our partners because they provide materials for us to achieve in school,” said eighth-grader Kassidy Lloyd, president of Caring Connections, an antibullying committee. “As a student I recognize truly how much our partners help to enhance our learning and pro-
gression as we move on in the education system,” said eighthgrade Leader Spencer Odekirk. At Students of the Month luncheons, Fareway contributes cookies and Wheaten Franciscan supplies pizza. Partners also support the Writers’ Workshop, Red Ribbon Week, the 7th Grade Health Fair, Community Leadership Luncheon, the adopt-a-family program and the Coat, Scarf and Glove Drive. The Hoover Orchestra Quartet presents holiday music at Covenant and students create artwork for Covenant Tunnels and the Cancer Research Center. Students of the Month
photographs are displayed at Covenant, and the League of Women Voters are involved in a poster contest and voting essay contest. Fareway provides supplies for the Leader in Me Ice Cream Social. “Our Partners in Ed make sure that we can have fun in a way that allows us to still get a good education,” noted Parker
McNally, an eight-grade Leader. Partners have provided educational materials for individual classrooms from the teachers’ “wish list,” especially science and literacy classes. “We know we can always rely on our partners to provide for special events that they know we need help with,” added Sam O’Brien, eighth-grade Leader.
“Working together for a brighter future”
“I put first things first, work then play.”
Based on the work of Dr. Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, The Leader in Me is giving Cedar Valley students essential skills and tools to discover their purpose in life, uncover their core values, and reach their highest potential!
Building Stronger Connections We’re Proud to Support the Partners in Education Program
CUNA Mutual Group 2000 Heritage Way Waverly, IA 50677 www.cunamutual.com
10001981-0413 PIE
Put your child’s school on the path to greatness. www.cedarvalleyalliance.com/leadervalley
A workforce development initiative of the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber
Page 10 partners in education
www.wcfcourier.com
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Partners provide support, opportunities for Bunger students Eighth-grade Bunger Middle School student Courtney Smith appreciates the Partners in Education program at her school. “It’s really nice for the students to get rewarded for good behavior,” she said. It’s just one of many good things PIE does for Bunger students. Partners are First Congregational United Church of Christ, The Other Place in Evansdale and Peters Construction. “Thanks to the generosity of our Partners in Education, the Media Center Lounge space is a
Partners provide supplies, support at North Cedar
wonderful addition to the building. Students and staff enjoy reading, collaborating and working in the space,” said Corey Rogers, media and technology integration specialist. “In fact, the literacy class visits the lounge once a week to getting some independent reading done.
‘‘The lounge is a warm and welcoming space in the Media Center and we are so grateful for the time amd energy our Partners in Ed put into creating it for us.”” PIE also provides transportation for students to different events including leadership conferences and student of the month
Proud sponsor of bright ideas.
CEDAR FALLS — Cedar Falls Real Estate Co., AMVETS 49 of Cedar Falls and Viking Pump make the most of their partnerships with North Cedar Elementary School. This year, PIE participants donated school supplies, as well as calendars to students and staff. “We are grateful for the continuing support from all our Partners in Ed as well as other community organizations who assist our students and staff throughout the year,” said Principal Jennifer Hartman.
PIE mission is benefit for both school, business What is PIE?
In Waterloo Schools, school and Partners in Education are cooperative arrangements between schools and busiesses, agencies, service clubs, etc., for the purpose of sharing resources to meet partner needs. Any elementary, middle or high school may be partnered with an area business or community agency . Partners can be paired with a specific school or be a Partner at Large.
Bertch is honored to partner with I.C./St. Joe’s in Gilbertville & Raymond
luncheons; and lunch and food for students who have been nominated for student of the month. Partners are consistently helping families in need through adopt a family or any other program where families may need extra help. Partners and students and staff
also competed to raise canned goods for the food bank. “I really appreciate all of the help our partners do to help out our students. Without them, it would be difficult to do all the things we do for our students and families,” added counselor Ryan Topliff.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
www.wcfcourier.com partners in education Page 11
Carver Academy students put smiles on faces “Collaborating with George Washington Carver Academy through the Partners in Education program is one of the most important things we do,” said Kyle Klingman, National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum. “It allows us to engage young people in a meaningful way, and it provides a platform to celebrate excellence within our community.” Carver Academy is also
“I love working with the students from Carver Academy, they are eager to learn, polite and put a smile on my face.” — Becky Dumler, R.N., Allen Hospital partners with Allen Hospital and Allen College, St. Paul’s Methodist Church, Antioch Baptist Church, Logan Avenue Hy-Vee Food Store Wartburg
College. “I love working with the students from Carver Academy, they are eager to learn, polite and put a smile on my face,” said Becky
Dumler, R.N., Allen Hospital. Eighth-grade students attend a luncheon at Allen College at which they are taught etiquette. They are joined by Carver staff and other volunteers from partners. Allen College hosts the quarterly Honor Roll assemblies which many part-
ners attend. 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 and 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by their teachers.
Bertch, Bosco System partnership about sharing GILBERTVILLE — The Bosco System Immaculate Conception and St. Joseph Centers in Gilbertville and Raymond are “Partners in E x c e l l e n c e ” w i t h B e r tc h C a b i n e t M a n u fa c t u r i n g . Bertch and the Bosco System share many activities throughout the school year. Bertch provides banners as a welcome-back at the beginning of the school year and Catholic Schools Week, as well as provide pencils for the Iowa Assessments, cookies for September open houses and birthday cards and gifts for students. Santa visits kindergarten t h r o u g h s e c o n d - g ra d e r s i n D e c e m b e r, a n d l u n c h i s p rov i d e d to tea c h e rs a n d s u p p o r t s ta f f d u r i n g National Teacher Appreciation Week. Bertch also provides tree seedlings for families over a period of years. Veterans who work at Bertch are invited to the school’s Nov. 11 remembrance program, and third-graders visit Bertch for Christmas caroling before the holiday break.
Students also create birthday posters for different Bertch departments. To ge t h e r, p a r t n e rs a n d s t u d e n ts p a c k b a c k p a c k s so children will have food over the weekend, a project
at the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. “I enjoyed working at the food bank. I didn’t realize some kids didn’t have enough food over the weekend,” said sixthgrader Ayden Hahn.
Problem Solver.
Team Player.
Critical Thinker.
Based on the work of Dr. Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, The Leader in Me is giving Cedar Valley students tools to be more effective in the classroom today and the workplace tomorrow. Strengthen the Cedar Valley and invest in your future employees. Learn more at www.cedarvalleyalliance.com/leadervalley
A workforce development initiative of the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber
Page 12 partners in education
www.wcfcourier.com
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Orange, PIE develop mission statement to guide partnerships “A n a c t ive pa r t n e rs h i p between businesses and school focused on the enhancement of learning and growing to inspire life-long learners and leaders.� That is the mission that guides PIE work at Orange Elementary School “We worked together to create this new mission statement and are truly living it this year. We now have student leaders attending our meetings, have welcomed Sam’s Club as a new partner, added basketball for our boys with KDP and have established several WIN-WIN relationships with individual classes and partners. We are so blessed to have such a strong Partners in Education team,� said Principal Teri Trask. Partners are Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanical Garden, Harmony House Health Care Center, Hawkeye Community College, Liberty Bank, Mediacom, Orange Parent Association, South Waterloo Church of the Brethren, Sam’s Club and UNIKDP Honor Society. Junior Achievement classes with Vicki Holler’s third-grader, Debbie Miller’s fourth-grade classes and kindergarten took place with Sam’s Club. “Jeremy McDowell from Sam’s Club is an example of a leader who is making the world and Orange a better place,� said Holler. Miller’s class helped design Feeding America Posters for the Sam’s Club Food Drive, and Sam’s Club gave 20 $50 gift cards to teachers during the Teacher Appreciation ceremony. Partners spoke at the PIE Induction, provided snacks for movie night, attended the health fair and provide veggie chips, oranges and water and attended the grand-opening open house. KDP Honor Society added a basketball program for thirdand fourth-grade boys, and the Orange Chorus sang at KDP’s initiation ceremony. The chorus also caroled at partner businesses at Christmas. “They (Orange Chorus) were a highlight of the programs for all of us and a visible reminder of all
“They (Orange Chorus) were a highlight of the programs for all of us and a visible reminder of all we stand for and work for.� — UNI-KDP’s Becky Hawbacker
COURTESY PHOTO
Orange students visiting Harmony House. we stand for and work for,� said UNI-KDP’s Becky Hawbacker. First-graders and the kindergarten made Thanksgiving baskets for Harmony House, while the second-grade made valentines and cookies and placemats. Harmony House served the students lunch.
Fourth-graders did an egg drop at Hawkeye Community College and helped clean up at the Arboretum. Pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and firstgrade hosted dental students from Hawkeye. A guest reader from the Arboretum visited the second-grade.
Tyson Foods is proud to partner with Poyner Elementary.
ďż˝
Tyson Foods, Inc. ��
Š2013 Tyson Foods, Inc. Tyson is a registered trademark and Making great food. Making a difference. is a trademark of Tyson Foods, Inc.
www.wcfcourier.com partners in education Page 13
Partners program gives Irving students tools for success
TeamMates mentors. Fifth-grade teacher Stephanie Bradfield at Irving Elementracy School appreciates the little things Partners in Education participants do to support the
210 Beck Avenue Waterloo, IA 319-233-6113
Connecting students to people passionate about education
$215,218 Total scholarship dollars given in 2013 to deserving students
185 College scholarships awarded in 2013
r.
rg
oo
ve
Fo
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
d.
re
“Children cannot succeed alone, partners are there to help encourage them with tools for success.” That’s how Tiffanie Miller of Ocwen sums up the Partners in Education program at Irving Elementary School. Additional partners at Irving are Church Row Historical Neighborhood Association, COURTESY PHOTO CUNA Mutual Group, First Baptist Church, First United Meth- Melanie Onken’s kindergarteners with Shamrock the horse given them odist Church, First Presbyterian by Mr. Zimmerman’s fifth-grade class. Church, Ravenwood Nursing & Rehab Center, StruXture Architects, Trinity American Lutheran Church, Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier and Wells Fargo Bank. During the school year, PIE has donated movie tickts for the Fabulous Falcon award, participated in the Adopt-A-Family program, provided caroling opportunities, donated to the Irving Uniform RSVP partners with the Waterloo Schools to recruit/place Clset, provided materials for the 100th day of school activities, volunteers 55 and older in the schools. Working with elementary provided Iowa Assessment penstudents - reading proficiency is our primary focus area. cils, brain food and encouraging notes. “One particular resident, Corrie Dennis, was so interested in the encouraging notes for Iowa Assessments when they worked on it as a group that she spent the weekend making individual cards for 32 students. She did artwork on the front of each and told a little story with each picture. I am so proud of her for taking the initiative to do this on her own,” said Carmen Wollum, administrative manager at Ravenwood. PIE also assists with school supply donations and items for the Irving Store. Fifth-grader Orlando Vivians Jr., said his class had monitored Melanie Onken’s kindergarten class and because the children had done so well, bought them a reward, “Shamrock, the stuffed horse donated by Wells Fargo (to the Irving Store) with all our STAR tickets.” Additionally, PIE provides the monthly Café award and are
school. “It is those little things they provide that give me more time to work on my school work rather than going to the store,” she said.
of Northeast Iowa Established in Waterloo/Cedar Falls in 1956
Fo
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Learn how you can change a student’s life. 319.287.9106 • www.cfneia.org
Page 14 partners in education
www.wcfcourier.com
Sunday, April 27, 2014
PIE collaborations win-win for Holmes Cedar Heights shares partnerships CEDAR FALLS — At Holmes Junior High School, the goal is to understand how, when and where young people learn, says Principal David Welter. “Education isn’t just what happens in school; it’s taking place after school, in the summer, on the job and in the community. ‘‘Whether we are teachers, parents, business leaders, members of the community or elected officials, we all have a role to play in that learning,” he said. The school has multiple Partners in Education: Cedar Falls Community Credit Union, Lattin’s Photography, Iowa National Guard, Holmes PATT Group, Boys and Girls Club, Holmes ECHOES, Cedar
Valley Stand for the Silent Chapter, ISU Extension, John Deere, Iowa After School Alliance, Mid Iowa Food Bank, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Cedar Falls Utilities, as well as numerous parent volunteers. Holmes’ ECHOES After School program has been built around that goal of understanding, connecting it with real-world applications and learning opportunities in the classroom, ensuring that young people have the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in college and the workforce,” Welter explained. “We have also carried that goal into community service, allowing our students and staff the oppor-
tunity to help those who may be in need in our community. ‘‘Our collaborative partnerships with all our Partners in Education have been win-win experiences for all involved.” Activities throughout the year have included tree planting with CFU, Holmes Student Council community service projects, the holiday service project Thanks, an assembly an video for Stand for the Silent Anti-Bullying assembly, Will Reinart fundraiser, ECHOES and Tiger Time “Merging Extended Learning Opportunities,” a Veterans Day assembly featuring Sid and Taylor Morris, and a studentsponsored community service project, “It Starts at Home Plate.”
CEDAR FALLS — Cedar Heights Elementary shares partnerships with Struxture Architects, Lattin Photography and Next Generation Wireless through the Partners in Education program. Ambassadors mentor students in fourththrough sixth-grade, participating in activities with these students throughout the school year. Partners also provides readers in the classroom for kindergartners, first- and secondgraders. Approximately 24 second-grade students are pen pals with partners, exchanging letters during the school year.
Highland School’s PIE make difference for students, teachers Six Partners in Education make a difference at Highland Elementary School. Nazareth Lutheran Church, Petersen & Tietz Florists and Greenhouse, Omega Cabinets, Lincoln Savings Bank, John Deere and Ron Protzman are regular contributors at Highland. They support such activities as the fall hot dog roast and hayride, Paws-4-You staff recognition, student of the month recognition, the adopta-family holiday gift program, carnation sales and Earth Day activities. Also assisting with the adopt-a-family program are Westminster Presbyterian Church and Quota Club, which also assists with the Cops ‘n’ Kids project. City Wide Mission of Waterloo donates funds for student needs, and West High School JAROTC volunteers with math and literacy events and letters to the troops. Mom K im Berger, firstgrader Salvador Trinidad and pre-school-kindergartner Jennyfer Villafranco expressed their thanks to PIE for “making
our Christmas one to remember.” Parent Eunice Garcia and first-grader Daniel Lopez said, “People like you make a difference in this world, and I don’t
have enough words to thank you for what you did for us.” Christiana, fourth-grader Arquandis and first-grader Arquanvis Allen said, “We sincerely thank you from the bot-
tom of our hearts.” PIE raises funds for school improvement and student needs, hosts staff dinners at parent-teacher conferences and provides refreshments at
grade-level showcases. Many Partners volunteer in the classroom during the day as reading buddies or with STEM projects, and support classroom teachers and volunteers.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
www.wcfcourier.com partners in education Page 15
Hansen appreciates rich partnership tradition CEDAR FALLS — Hansen has a rich tradition of excellent partnerships with the community. Partners in Education include Sartori Hospital, a partner since 1990, First National Bank and 93.5 The Mix, both partners since 2000, and Martin Brothers, a partner since 2007. First National Bank donates practice checks to sixth-graders where students learn about decimals and money in a fun way. First-graders carol through the halls of Sartori Hospital during the holidays, and fifth- and sixthgrade choir and band/orchestra perform for the staff. Each partner sponsors a Hansen family in need, and all grade levels create tray favors for the hospital for various holidays. Student artwork is displayed at both Sartori and First National Bank. With the help of the art teacher, students decorate a tree
COURTESY PHOTO
Second-grade teacher Luke Wagner and students at Sartori Hospital. for the annual Sartori Festival of Trees. In conjunction with the counselor’s unit on careers, a sixthgrade career fair sponsored by
First National Bank and 93.5 the Mix and takes place at the school. Speakers represent various careers in the community. In addition, sixth-graders and their
teachers are bussed to Sartori for a Career Fair in health care. The partners host an annual end of school picnic for the sixth graders and their families in the Dining Room at Sartori. Martin Bros and Sartori furnish the food, First National Bank provides a Karaoke machine, and the Mix provides the DJ. On the last day of school assembly, First National Bank gives a good Ccitizenship award; 93.5 The Mix gives a communication award; and Martin Bros has donated a gift certificate to a parent or parents who have made a deserving contribution to Hansen School. All partners donate to various Hansen activities, such as: PTA Carnival, Science Fair, and other special events. First-grade teacher Jennifer Anderson praised partners’ generosity in providing holiday gifts for needy families. “We continue
to be in awe with how abundantly generous our partners are. We are truly thankful for the difference our partners make in student lives,” she said. PIE supports both academics as well as helping to prepare youth to be productive citizens while also providing opportunities for fun, said Luke Wagner, second-grade teacher. “It’s so nice to have Sartori Hospital as our PIE. Our second-grade students love having the opportunity to tour the hospital and trickor-treat at the same time.” Sixth-graders get plenty of PIE attention, including a career fair and end-of-the-year picnic. “Our sixth-graders have additional adult role models that many other students of this age level don’t have the opportunity to experience, which we as a teaching staff are extremely grateful for from our PIE,” said sixth-grade teacher Jared Pirkl.
UNI has more than 130 years of
experience preparing some of the best teachers in the state. • Learn from professors who teach and mentor you • Gain hands-on experience in pre-K through 12 schools • Join the nearly 12,000 alumni educators in the state who got their start at UNI
Learn more at uni.edu
E D U C AT E • S E R V E • L E A D
Page 16 partners in education
www.wcfcourier.com
Sunday, April 27, 2014
AN EDUCATION FOR THE FUTURE DESIGNED FOR REAL WORLD ISSUES
MASTER OF ARTS INTEGRATED STEM EDUCATION
OUR PROGRAM The Loras College Master of Arts in Integrated STEM Education was developed for educators as a multi-disciplinary approach to STEM education, centered on relevant world issues. The curriculum is designed to enhance the professional competencies and involvement of people already active in an educational field.
OUR DELIVERY There are several unique features tailored to meet the needs of working education professionals. We provide an innovative, interdisciplinary program that views STEM as a single integrated discipline. More importantly, learning is contextual with an emphasis on relevant issues in real world settings. Courses are taught by experienced faculty in the Education, Science, Mathematics and Engineering departments, with emphasis on teaching problem-solving holistically within STEM disciplines. All delivered in a mix of online and face-to-face options, tailored to fit teachers’ schedules. To learn more about this program go to Loras.edu/STEM.
START YOUR JOURNEY NOW! Contact Mike Friend, Graduate & Transfer Recruiting Coordinator, today to join the Loras College Integrated STEM Masters Program. Call 563.588.7166 or email michael.friend@loras.edu.
BE MORE. BE LORAS.
LORAS.EDU