Lions Pride - Notre Dame Elementary School
Transcription
Lions Pride - Notre Dame Elementary School
Notre Dame Elementary School Preschool ~ 8th Grade Lions Pride 2015-2016 Back-To-School Newsletter Nurturing Dreams, Excellence and Success 13000 Auburn Road, Chardon, Ohio 44024 www.notredameelementary.org ~ Main Office 440.279.1127 Elementary Admissions, Josephine Ambrose 440.279.1129 ~ Preschool, Freddie Lelko 440.286.7101 x5920 President’s Message Dear Parents, Honesty is always a good starting place so that is my starting point in my first letter to you. Change is often a catalyst for growth, exploration and imagining. On the other hand, change can be unnerving and cause a little dis-ease. Sometimes change is in the forefront and, then again, it can slip through our fingertips unnoticed. This past July 1, 2015 a new Notre Dame Schools Board of Directors began its oversight of governance for Notre Dame Elementary and Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin Schools. For over a year, a task force has judiciously addressed this change. Mrs. Doering worked closely with the task force in thinking through and executing the governance changes. Along with the Board and as the only hire of the Board, I will have the joy and responsibility to serve Notre Dame Schools (NDES/ NDCL) as president. Mrs. Doering will continue to serve you and your children as principal. Both NDES and NDCL remain separate schools. The 25 member Board will use their skills and talents to uncover new potential for sustaining, strengthening and strategically directing the implementation and living out of the educational vision and principles of the Sisters of Notre Dame. This vision is at the heart of Notre Dame Elementary School’s mission. All of us seek to have it impact the lives of your precious and loved children and the culture of NDES. Since NDES is a school sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame, we commit ourselves to educate in this vision. We commit ourselves to giving visibility to our Catholic identity. And most of all we promise you the continued nurturing of dreams, excellence and success. The track record is self-evident as a Blue Ribbon School! May this new governance change, the Notre Dame Schools Board of Directors, be a stimulus for exploration, expansion and envisioning now and into the future. Notre Dame Schools Board of Directors Lynne Ernes, Chair Frank Cappello Jennifer Cavolo Matthew Dailey Deborah Feller Daniel Garey Roger Gingerich Sr. Jacquelyn Gusdane, SND Jill Harmat John Herubin James Heslop Douglas Hogan Kelly Keefe Maureen Lynn Linda McHugh Daniel Mullinger Sr. Mary Frances Murray, SND Joseph Nista Janet Poponick Terry Searles Michael Smith Joseph Williams IV William Zehe Sr. Carol Ziegler, SND One Heart One Mission One Campus With gratitude and prayer, Jacquelyn Gusdane, SND NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 2 Principal’s Message Dear Parents, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” ~John 13:34-35 Hopefully summer has been a time to relax, enjoy time with family and friends and capture many special memories with your children. Our school theme this year is “Christ for One Another”. The theme came to us through a very special email that we received at the beginning of summer. After the email, someone shared with us how Christ comes to us through the Eucharist and in our daily lives ~ we just have to be open to His presence ~ which is often through others. Throughout the year we will share Christ’s love and be living witnesses to His message as He shines through our lives, words and actions. We officially welcome and congratulate Sr. Jacquelyn Gusdane as the President of both NDES and NDCL. It will be a pleasure to work closely with Sr. Jacquelyn and NDCL as we continue to work for excellence. Table of contents President’s Message ~ 2 Principal’s Message ~3 Calendar-at-a Glance ~ 4 Back to School Information ~5 Survey Results ~6 Fundraising ~ 7 NDPA Board ~ 8 Become a Joint Sponsor ~ 9 CYO Sports ~ 10 What’s New ~ 11 Reminders ~ 12 Lunch Program ~ 13 Uniform Policies ~ 14-15 School Supply List ~ 16-17 NDES After School Clubs ~ 18 National Blue Ribbon of Excellence ~ 19 We Remember ~ 20 Catholic Identity ~ 21 Academic Excellence ~ 22 Academic Competitions ~ 23-24 State- of- the- Art Technology ~ 25 Hands-On Programs ~ 26 Collaboration ~ 27 Field Experiences ~ 28 Thank You to our Donors, and Volunteers ~29-31 SND Chicken BBQ ~ 32 Congratulations are also extended to Nikki Koplow and her husband Eric Bukovec who had a beautiful wedding celebration in June. Miss Koplow is now officially Mrs. Nikki Bukovec. Julie Amantea is also moving from first grade to second grade for the upcoming school year. Kathy Biro, who was the first grade teacher assistant last year, is our new 1st grade teacher. Lindsay Montague, who served as a part-time preschool teacher assistant, will be joining our preschool teaching staff. Best of wishes are extended to Mrs. Vicky Joslin, Miss Leslie Bell, Mr. Jack Radicelli, Mrs. Allison Lowe, Mrs. Sarah Keller, Mrs. Sarah Peshek, Chiu-Yi Lin and Mr. John Kelleher who will not be returning as regular staff members in the 2015 - 2016 school year. We thank them for all their wonderful contributions and many years of service. May their future endeavors bring them many blessings and much happiness. It is with great pleasure that we welcome the following teachers and staff members to Notre Dame Elementary: Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Miss Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Cathy Zink ~ Sixth Grade Homeroom & Math Teacher Casie Long ~ Sixth Grade Homeroom & Science and Social Studies Teacher Wendi O’Brien ~ 8th Grade Homeroom & Junior High Math Teacher Mery Tomsick ~ Music Teacher Kayla O’Brien ~ Physical Education Teacher Susan Hayward ~ Librarian Maria Injic ~ Director of Finance Martie Hays ~ Kindergarten Teacher Assistant Emily Savron ~ First Grade Teacher Assistant Stacey Modarelli ~ Second Grade Teacher Assistant Melissa Capretta ~ Preschool Teacher Assistant Their strong commitment to excellence, knowledge of best practices, skills and enthusiasm will be a true asset to our school community. They will strive to work in close collaboration with the staff and parents as they challenge, set high expectations and meet individual needs that will lead to student success. We are looking forward to seeing everyone at Orientation Day on Monday, August 24th from 8:0010:00am. Wishing your family many blessings and the beauty of these wonderful summer days! Christ for One Another Yours in Education, Barbara Doering NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 3 Calendar changes are updated on our google based master calendar at www. notredameelementary.org You can subscribe to the google calendar and be updated automatically. August January May 2 - Principal for the Day 20 - New Family Wine and Dessert Night 1 - No Classes - Christmas Holidays 24 - Orientation Day 8am-10am 25 - First Day of Classes for Grades 1-8 (Kindergarten students will follow their schedule) 27 - Prayer Service 8:20am 31 - All Kindergarten students half-day September 1 - Back-To-School-Night (Grades K-8; 6:30-8:30pm) 1 - All Kindergarten students half-day 2 – 3 All Kindergarten full day 4 - No Classes – Geauga Fair Day 7 - No Classes – Labor Day 10 - Liturgy 8:30am 11 - Picture Day 25 - Mid-Quarter October 2 - Liturgy 8:30am 3 - Pet Blessing 10:00am 10 - Night at the Races 16 - Doughnuts with Dad 15 - Grandparents Day K-4 23 - No Classes; Teacher In-service 23 - End of First Quarter November 6 - Liturgy 8:30am 10-11 - Parent Conferences 12, 13 & 16 - No Classes Teacher In-service Day 17-19 - Book Fair 24 - Prayer Service 1:45 25-27 - No Classes – Thanksgiving Holidays December 1 - Advent Prayer Service 8:20am 3 - Christmas Luncheon 4 - St. Nick Visit 4 - Mid-Quarter 8 - Liturgy 8:30am 9 - Christmas Boutique 15 - Christmas Program 1:00 & 7:00pm 17 - Band Concert 1:00 & 7:00pm 18 - Prayer Service 1:45pm Christmas Caroling 21-31 - No Classes Christmas Holidays 4 - Classes Resume 15 - End of Second Quarter 15 - Prayer Service 2:00pm 18 - No Classes – Martin Luther King Day 20 - Walkathon Pep Rally 8:15am 27 – Science Fair 31 – Family Liturgy 11:00am 31 - Open House 12:00pm - 2:30pm February 3 – Teacher Appreciation Day 4 – Student Appreciation Day 5 - Liturgy 8:30am 5 - Family Pizza Bingo Night 6:00pm 10 - Ash Wednesday Liturgy 8:30am 15 - No Classes - Presidents’ Day 18 - Stations of the Cross 1:45pm 19 - Mid-Quarter 24 – Lenten Prayer Service 8:20am March 3 - Preschool Poetry Recital 7:00pm 8 - Reconciliation 1:00pm (Grades 3-5) 13 - Mother/Son Bowling 15 - Reconciliation 1:00pm (Grades 6-8) 15-17- Book Fair 23 – Holy week Prayer Service 8:20am 24 - No Classes - Holy Thursday 25 - No Classes - Good Friday 28-31 - No Classes - Easter Holidays 18 - End of Third Quarter 5 - Dance Recital 7:00pm 6 - May Crowning; Volunteer Breakfast 9 -13 - Career Week K-8 8:00am-2:00pm 15 - First Communion 2:00pm 16 - Walkathon/Notre Dame Day 18 - Band Concert at St. Helen’s 19 - Band Concert – NDES 1:00 & 7:00pm 25 - Spring Program 1:00 & 7:00pm 26 - Talent Show 27 - Closing School Mass 8:30am 30 - No Classes - Memorial Day 31 - 8th Grade Graduation Calendar at- a- Glance Planning Ahead June 2 - Last Day of Classes Awards Prayer Service 1:45pm End of the Fourth Quarter 3 - Teacher Day 10 - Report Cards Mailed Note: *If we are required to make up snow days additional classes will begin June 3rd. April 4 - Classes Resume 8 - Liturgy 8:30am 15 - No Classes - Teacher In-service Day 8 - Drama Club Production 7:00pm 9 - Drama Club Production 3:30pm 10 - Drama Club Production 3:30pm 20 - NDES Learning Fair/Young Authors 21-22 - Kindergarten Screening 24 - Father/Daughter Dance 25 - 2nd Grade Jesus Day/Bread Day 29 - Mid-Quarter NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 4 New Family Orientation Thursday, August 20, 2015 @ 6:00pm Notre Dame Provincial Center Auditorium Any questions or concerns will be answered. It is our hope that this orientation will help to make the new school year an easy transition. We are looking forward to a great year with your children! Wine & Dessert Celebration immediately following the orientation in the NDEC Auditorium. This reception is for adults only. Sr. Jacquelyn Gusdane, SND, President Barbara Doering, Principal ~ Jenny Massiello, Assistant Principal Josephine Ambrose, Admissions Director Back-to-School Important Dates August 24th: Orientation Day @ 8:00 - 10:00 am ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ Meet the teachers Purchase school supplies & gym clothes Organize your purchased school supplies in your desk or locker Pick up text books and workbooks to be covered Pick up Orientation Day folder with important forms August 25th: First Day of Classes for Grades 1-8 @ 7:55am - 2:40pm August 31st: Half Day for all Kindergarten Students September 1st: Back-to-School Night Grades K-8 @ 6:30pm - 8:30pm Half Day for all Kindergarten Students September 3rd: All Back-to-School Forms Due September 4th: No Classes - Geauga Fair Day September 7th: No Classes - Labor Day September 11th: Picture Day September 20th: SND Chicken BBQ September 27th: SND Chicken BBQ NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 5 Back-To-School Important Dates Welcome Back -to - School Survey Results Thank you for participating in our survey. NDES conducted a survey this past summer to evaluate different events, things we do well and things we need to improve. Out of 325 families, 130 or 40% of our families participated. All of our NDPA events received at least a 70% or better approval rating. Each year NDPA and NDES evaluate the success of each fundraiser based on profitability, attendance and volunteerism. We realize fundraiser trends can change over the years. At our NDPA meetings, many families often share different fundraising ideas. Last year, we held the Annual Auction and Casino Night. Based on surveys, people generally liked the event, location and items auctioned but results also indicated that the Live Auction and Casino Night were difficult to have on the same evening. Other people expressed having a Reverse Raffle or even changing it up completely and having a family friendly 5K Run as an option. Either event would be inviting to the NDES community and other guests. Survey Results Christ for One Another All fundraisers received at least a 70% or better approval rating, with the favorite fundraiser being the NDES Day/Walkathon and the least favorite, this year’s Annual Auction Casino Night. Also, we took a look at possible new fundraisers. The survey showed that when polled between a 5K and an annual evening event, our families still prefer an adult friendly evening event. Therefore, we will host a NDES Annual Benefit. We are open to many options, but need volunteers to steer this event. Please consider being part of this committee. NDES Annual Benefit vs. 5K Annual Benefit 48% 52% 5K NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 6 Notre Dame Elementary School is grateful for the gifts and community of parents, staff, trustees, grandparents, alumni and friends. Your contributions and participation in our fundraisers are essential to our programs and keep our school thriving year after year! We rely on your gifts to provide the critical resources needed to cover the true cost of running our school. Tuition and fees provide most of our revenue, but a percentage of our operational income is needed from fundraising and your taxdeductible gifts. Annual Auction & Casino Night $17,600.00 12% NDES Fundraising Profit 50/50 NDES Raffle Tickets $16,016.00 11% Walkathon $28,000.00 18% NDPA Dues $8,345.00 5% NDES Fund $64,000.00 42% Christmas Luncheon $18,000.00 12% Fundraising Profit NDES Operating Expenses Together with the strong partnership of the Notre Dame Parent Association, Notre Dame Elementary School raised $151,961.00. These funds will make a significant impact on our students throughout this school year. Every dollar raised will touch each child and will help continue the legacy of our engaging and enriching programs that make Notre Dame Elementary truly exceptional. Technology Upgrades & Maintenance $ 20,000 Laptop/iPad/Printer Maintenance Whiteboard installation 2 - 3D Printers Your contributions enrich each child’s experience on a daily basis by supporting general operations, by funding classroom enhancements, technology advancement, professional development and NDPA sponsored events. Your generosity continues to foster school spirt and support our NDES family. Bullies to Buddies Grade Level Enrichment $ 48,000 Surface Tablets and Cart Picnic Tables Staff Development & Technical Support $ 20,000 Enrichment Programs $ 20,211 STEM $ 6,000 Field Trips $ 6,250 Teacher Startup/Gifts $ 8,500 NDPA Events $ 23,000 See NDPA Events Listing NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 7 Fundraising Investing in Tomorrow NDPA Meeting Dates 2015-2016 All meetings are held at 7 pm at the school. Everyone is welcome to attend!! 9/3/2015,10/1/2015 11/5/2015, 1/7/2016 2/4/2016, 3/10/2016 4/7/2016, 5/12/2016 NDPA Board 2015 - 2016 Co-President: Marie Szczyglowski Erin Gaugler Treasurer: Barbara Williams Secretary: Lisa Callahan Parent Representatives: Lynn Barras, Melissa Capretta Amy Cardillo, Tina Corkwell Martie Hays, Lisa Jackson Gina LoCoco, Christine Mahoney Jackie Moskal, Lisa Weisend Laura Zucker Parent Rep Preschool: Jessica Bauer, Rachel Casteel Kim Dixon, Melissa O’Brien Coordinators: Box Top Labels: Campbell Soup: Directory Room Parent: Sunshine Jane Yano Jamie Putinski Julie Oppenlander Jen Creech Martie Hays NDPA Dues and Classroom Fees Dear Parents, Welcome back! We hope you are enjoying your summer. It always goes so fast. The Notre Dame Parent Association (NDPA) has many fun activities planned for the 2015-2016 school year, which will benefit every child from Preschool through 8th Grade. A Volunteer Signup Form for the NDPA events and fundraisers will be available in your Orientation Day folder. You will also find a list of Board Members, NDPA meeting schedule and a schedule of NDPA 2015-2016 events and positions. “Friend”raiser Events: There are many different types of fun events sponsored by the NDPA. We offer activities for the children and their families throughout the school year that foster school spirit. Date 2015 - 2016 NDPA Events Chair 20 -Aug New Family Wine & Dessert Amy Cardillo 28 -Aug Back to School Treat Denise Frindt TBD Family Roller Skating Party Tina McGraw 16 -Oct Donuts with Dads Wendy Satterlee TBD Fall Jr. High Dance Open 10-11 Nov Teacher Conference Dinners Erin Gaugler 4 -DecSt. Nick TreatOpen 9 -Dec Christmas Boutique Halle Worley 31-Jan NDES Open House Marie Szczyglowski Erin Gaugler 3 -FebTeacher AppreciationOpen 4 -Feb Student Appreciation Lisa Callahan 5 -Feb Family Pizza Bingo Gina LoCoco 13-MarMother/Son BowlingLisa Jackson TBD-Apr Morning with Mom Tim Atkinson 21-22 Apr Kindergarten Screening Theresa Bhanoo 24 - Apr Father/Daughter Dance Barbara Williams TBD Apr Spring Jr. High Dance Open 15-May 1st Communion Reception Open 31-May Eighth Grade Graduation Michelle Mulchin Notre Dame Parents’ Association Partnership with Parents Fundraisers: As partners with NDES, the NDPA helps support, plan and raise money for the NDES fundraisers. All of our fundraisers help support our school programs. Your help is crucial to the success of our fundraisers. NDES has five fundraisers. Beginning of School Year - NDES 50/50 Raffle Tickets December 3, 2015 - NDES 30th Annual Christmas Luncheon Feb/March - NDES Annual Benefit May 16, 2015 - Walkathon NDES FUND You can participate in all of the above by becoming a Joint Sponsor. NDPA will be collecting NDPA Dues and We look forward to a great year together! Should you ever have questions or Classroom fees. This form and website link can be found in your Orientation Day comments, please contact us in person, by letter, e-mail or attend a monthly NDPA folder. They will cover the following costs: meeting. All are encouraged to attend. Sincerely, NDPA Dues $25/family ~ NDPA activities and Directory Marie Szczyglowski and Erin Gaugler Classroom Fees $20/student ~ Classroom parties and teacher gift. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 8 NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 9 Become a Joint Sponsor Pay once and participate in all fundraisers CYO Sports’ Meeting Dates 2015-2016 All meetings are held at the school 2nd Wednesday on the following months at 6:30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend!! 8/12/2015, 9/9/2015 10/14/2015, 11/11/2015 3/9/2016, 5/11/2016 Notre Dame Elementary School participates in the CYO Sports Program for baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross country, fastpitch softball, football, track, volleyball, and wrestling. Students in grades 3 through 8 may participate in the CYO Sports Program. All Season Cheerleading Commissioner: Laylah Loiczly 1 - Girls Cheerleading Squad CYO Sports 2015 -2016 Girls’ Teams 1 - 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th Grade Team President Don Kruschke Wrestling Commissioner: Alex Massiello 1 - 5th - 8th Grade Boys’ Team Vice President Tim DeJohn Secretary Ed Hren Treasurer Open NDES Administrative Appointee Jennifer Massiello Athletic Director Kevin Coates Board Members: Dave Corwin Mike Dixon Christine Hoyt Matt Hanna Laylah Loiczly Melanie Vitale Mark Zakrajsek SAVE THE DATE NDES Sports Board Fundraiser Winter Season Basketball Commissioner: Mike Stefanek Boys’ Teams 1 - 3rd Grade; 3 - 4th Grade; 2 - 5th Grade 2 - 6th Grade; 3 - 7th Grade; 3 - 8th Grade CYO Sports Developing our Minds and Bodies Fall Season Cross Country Commissioner: Chris Rulison 1 - 3rd - 8th Grade Cross Country Team Football - The Geauga Lions Commissioner: Vic Peroni 1 - 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th Grade Team Volleyball Commissioner: Stacey Murray 1 - 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th, 8th Grade Team Spring Season Baseball/Fastpitch Commissioner: Mark Zakrajsek Boys’ Baseball 1 - 3rd, 4th/5th, 6th/7th and 8th Grade Boys’ Team Girls’ Fastpitch Softball 1 - 6th/7th/8th Grade Girls’ Team Track Season Commissioner: Chris Rulison 1 - 3rd - 8th Grade Team Night at the Races October 10, 2015 NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 10 Teacher Conferences & OCEA Convention This year the OCEA (Ohio Catholic Education Association) Convention is being held in Cleveland on Thursday, November 12th and Friday, November 13th. All our teachers will be attending the conference. For that reason, parent-teacher conferences will be held on Tuesday, November 10th and Wednesday, November 11th. School will be closed on Thursday, November 12th; Friday, November 13th and Monday, November 16th. The OCEA Convention will be a wonderful opportunity for professional development for our teachers. Computer System and Website Upgrades NDES is continuously improving and refining communications between home and school. With the installation of Rediker, a new school software suite and website upgrades, Notre Dame Elementary School is implementing an effective school communication solution. With these improvements, NDES will be able to modernize the day to day administration operations allowing teachers and administrators to engage with parents in a secure environment. This will pave the way for our transition to paperless forms. Website and News and Notes In the past, the paper/online News and Notes (Wednesday Folder) was the primary source of information to families with the website and social media being secondary. We are changing this concept and making the website the primary information source. The News and Notes will still be used but as a secondary source to support, alert and route people to changes on the website. The updated NDES website will be available at the beginning of the school year. This website will be your guide for all NDES information. Our goal is to keep a visible calendar on the home page with relevant information at your fingertips. Online Form Transition Over the course of the year, NDES will be transitioning to paperless forms and e-commerce for all registrations and responses. We are exploring different options this year and have begun the process on some items. Our goal is to be completely paperless by school year 2016-2017. Summer Solutions At the end of the school year, each student received a Math Summer Solutions workbook. This program is designed to help students retain and gain fluency of the skills they have been working all year to master. This summer-long practice is essential to continued success and progression upon the return to school in August and will serve as your child’s first math grade for the year. Listed below are the steps for completing the lessons. Thank you in advance for your support in your child’s success! Steps for Competing Each Lesson 1. Independently, the student should complete each question by showing all work in the given space. If he/she needs more room, please feel free to use notebook paper labeled with the lesson number. Help pages are available in the back of the book for reference and can/should be used as needed. 2. Parents are asked to check the lesson upon completion, marking questions that have been completed incorrectly. 3. Using a clean sheet of notebook paper labeled with the heading Corrections Lesson #, students should correct the problems that were answered incorrectly. If the student is unable to identify his/her mistake, he/she can ask for assistance to make the corrections. 4. Staple the corrections to the answer page of the lesson in the Summer Solutions book. *Note: A number of lessons (to be determined by the grade level teachers) will be collected and scored for the first grade of the school year. Teachers will be looking both at the original lesson and the corrections in considering the score of each activity.* NDES Back-to-School Newsletter What’s New ~ OCEA ~Technology Upgrades ~ Summer Solutions Pathways to Improvement Page 11 Electronic Devices No electronic devices will be permitted at school. This includes electronic hand held games. Many new electronics come equipped with cameras and internet access and cannot be used at school. Cell phones must be off and kept in the students’ book bags at all times. If a student’s phone is confiscated, it will be held in the office until a parent can pick it up and the student will receive an automatic detention. Food Allergies/Dietary Restrictions Many of our students (across all grade levels) have food allergies and/or dietary restrictions. We strive to do our best each and every day to keep all our children safe. All classrooms will be nut free. A detailed list of safe snacks and treats will be sent home in the Orientation Day folder. Back-To-School Night Back-To-School Night will be held on Tuesday, September 1st from 6:30-8:30pm for all grade levels in the NDEC Auditorium. This is a required meeting for parents to attend. Important information about our school programs and policies will be reviewed at the meeting. The Parent Association and Sports Board will share overviews of their organizations and offer various ways parents can get involved and make a difference in our school community. Classroom teachers will have two information sessions during the evening to highlight their programs, review their classroom policies and to give parents an opportunity to ask questions. If possible, families with more than two children should have both parents attend so they can visit all their children’s classrooms. Teachers will be available after the classroom sessions to meet parents that may not have children in their homerooms. If for some reason you cannot attend, please contact the school office. Tuition Reimbursement Incentive Plan (T.R.I.P) The first T.R.I.P. turn-in day is on Wednesday, August 26th. The pick-up will be the following week on Wednesday, September 2nd. We hope you take advantage of this wonderful tuition incentive program. School Policies 2015-2016 All school policies will be covered in the 2015-2016 Parent ~ Student Handbook, which will be distributed in the Orientation Day folder. Before Care and Extended Day We are happy to provide Before Care and Extended Day. Students may be dropped off in the morning beginning at 6:30am. The fees for both Before Care and Extended Day are being raised this year for the first time in over fifteen years. Our goal is to provide the best care for your children possible. The cost of Before Care is $4.00 for students dropped off before 7:00am and $2.00 for students dropped off at 7:00am or later. Doors will be unlocked for regular student drop off beginning at 7:25am. At 7:30am all students will proceed to their homerooms to begin their regular school day. The fee for Extended Day will be $4.00 per hour. Registration will remain at $30 per student or $75 per family. Registration forms for both Before Care and Extended Day will be available in the Orientation Day folder and on the NDES website. Updates & Reminders Communication... Family Vacations Family vacations are such a special and important time. We do ask that you try your best to plan your family vacations around our school calendar. It’s very difficult for children to do their best in school when they aren’t present in class. So much is missed in even one day. Please refer to the Parent ~ Student Handbook for guidelines and policies that pertain to student absences due to vacations. Chinese Unfortunately, Miss Chiu-Yi Lin resigned from her position as the Chinese teacher at NDES and NDCL this past week. Although the position was posted, after reviewing several applicants, Mr. Waler and I have decided to cancel the Chinese program. It would be very difficult to find a quality Chinese teacher before the beginning of the school year. All NDES students will be taking Spanish in 2015-2016. Recess/Lunch/Extended Day Paid positions are available. Please contact the school office if you are interested. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 12 Aladdin Food Management would like to welcome you back for the new school year. We encourage everyone to view the Aladdin website – www.aladdinfood.com Lunch service will be available on the first day of school, August 25, 2015. The menu will meet the guidelines of the Diocese of Cleveland, the Ohio Department of Education and the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans. All of our ingredients and recipes have been added into NutriKids, a nutrient analysis computer program, which allows us to analyze our planned menus. The weekly average will be located on the menu at the end of each week. In addition, each monthly menu will be submitted to be reviewed by an Aladdin registered dietitian (RD), licensed in the state of Ohio, prior to implementation and earn the RDLD symbol when it is approved. Lunch Program - Aladdin Healthy Nutrition The menu will be posted on the NDES school website and will be sent home monthly. Menu items will be offered in a combo style meal, which includes an entrée, two sides, one of which is a vegetable and milk for $3.70. Additional menu items can be purchased on an a la carte basis if the student chooses. These additional menu items will include a freshly made salad and fresh fruit selection daily. Point of Sale System. Aladdin has a Point of Sale System (POS) for added convenience and benefit to all students and parents. Every student will be assigned an account on the system to establish a convenient pre-pay method for service. However, cash may still be used for purchases in the dining hall. How it ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ works: An account is established for each student which includes an identification card with a bar code. Funds may be deposited into this account by mailing or sending in a check (payable to Aladdin Food Management Services), by credit card via a secure online website or by making a cash payment in the school office or cafeteria during regular business hours. As the student purchases food in the cafeteria, the account is reduced by the amount of the sale. Dining service account funds may only be used in the cafeteria. Use of these funds is protected by both photo and name identification. Negative balances will not be permitted. You can sign up for low balance email alerts when you create a new account on www.myschoolaccount.com or when logged into an existing one. Negative balance reminders will be sent by e-mail or in the weekly Wednesday folder. Please visit www.myschoolaccount.com to register and to make the direct payments. We look forward to the 2015-2016 school year! Any questions or concerns regarding the lunch program can be directed to my email or by phone Emily M. Heacox Director of Food Operations NDES/NDCL [email protected] or 440.279.1058 NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 13 Regular Uniform Notre Dame Elementary School requires the students to wear uniforms. Students are expected to be neatly dressed and in proper uniform. Random weekly uniform checks will be held throughout the school year. Girls Grades K-3 ~~ NDES plaid jumper, navy blue slacks or NDES plaid or navy shorts from Schoolbelles. ~~ Uniform skirt may not be more than 2 inches above the knee. ~~ Uniform jumper/skort lengths may not be more than 2 inches above the knee. Socks/Leggings: ~~ Socks must cover the ankle ~~ No sport socks or socks with logos ~~ Crew socks, knee high, bobby socks or tights are permitted ~~ Solid colored socks/tights: Navy blue, black, forest green or white ~~ Leggings/tights with matching colored socks, anklets or knee hi socks of the same colors ~~ Yoga pants are not permitted as part of the school uniform. They may be worn on dress down days with a dress, skirt or long tunic (2 inches above the knee. Uniform Policy Uniform Policies Uniform Shorts: Girls Grades 4-8: ~~ Schoolbelles uniform shorts may be worn ~~ NDES plaid skirt, skort, kilt or kick-pleated August – October 31st and April – June. skirt of appropriate length (2 inches above the ~~ Jr. High students may wear traditional beige knee or longer), navy blue slacks or NDES uniform shorts without cargo pockets, pockets plaid, or navy shorts down the sides or brads of any type on them. ~~ Navy blue vest purchased from Schoolbelles ~~ Uniform skirt lenghts may not be more than 2 Shoes: inches above the knee. ~~ Style: closed toe and closed heel ~~ Colors: solid navy, black, tan, cordovan or Girls Blouses Grades K-8: brown. Shoes with a contrast in the ~~ Style: long or short sleeved solid Peter Pan, same color family ~ for example: black tailored button down collar, turtleneck, or polo with grey, or brown with tan are acceptable. shirt ~~ Two color shoes are not permitted with the ~~ Colors: white, pastel blue or pastel yellow exception of traditional saddle shoes. ~~ Vests are required with all shirts except ~~ “Sperry” shoes may be worn as school polo shirts as long as appropriate attire is shoes, if they are in the same color family worn underneath. as listed above. The contrast must be ~~ Blouses must be tucked in. solid with no print in the same color family ~ for example: black with grey, or brown with Boys Grades K-8: tan. ~~ Navy blue dress pants, navy blue corduroy ~~ Canvas shoes such as Keds, Toms or Vans may pants or navy shorts purchased from be worn with shorts but not with school Schoolbelles. uniform skirts, jumpers or pants. The same color policy applies. Boys Shirts Grades K-8: ~~ Heels may not exceed 11/2 inches. ~~ Style: Long or short sleeved polo, button- ~~ Gold, silver flashy, sparkly shoes are not down dress shirts or white turtlenecks acceptable. ~~ Colors: white, pastel blue & pastel yellow ~~ Traditional-style, non high/mid tops white, ~~ Dress shirts require a tie navy or black tennis shoes or any combination of these colors, may be worn Boys Grades 7-8: Junior High Only with NDES uniform shorts and with the NDES ~~ Traditional beige pants gym warm-up uniform ~~ Style: Traditional, no pockets down the sides ~~ Tennis shoes worn to school may not be the or any brads on them. same shoes worn for gym class. Shoes for ~~ Polo shirts or button down dress shirts (see gym class are to be kept at NDES. above) may be worn with the khaki pants. Make up/Jewelry/Accessories ~~ Acceptable beige pants can be purchased at Schoolbelles, Sears, Lands End or JCPenney. ~~ No make-up may be worn as part of the uniform. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 14 Dress Uniform Outdoor Attire Students should be prepared for outside recess at all times. Students have outdoor recess if the temperature is 22 degrees or above. Girls K-8: Dress Uniform Spiritwear Days Clothing for Spiritwear Days consists of any appropriate NDES Spiritwear t-shirt or sweatshirt with jeans, sweatpants or shorts. If shorts are worn, they must be at least fingertip length. Running-type shorts and pajama pants are not permitted. All students are required to wear dress uniforms on Mass days or other special days that may be announced throughout the year. Specific details will be in the handbook. ~~ ~~ ~~ Grades (K-3) NDES plaid jumper with a blouse or oxford shirt (K-3). Grades 4-8, NDES plaid skirt with a blouse or oxford shirt and vest. Girls may not wear pants or shorts on dress uniform days. Boys K-8: Dress Uniform ~~ ~~ Uniform Policy Dress for Success Grades K-6 dress uniform consists of wearing navy school pants with a short or long sleeved polo shirt or dress shirt . Dress Down Days Birthdays are considered “Out of Uniform Days.” Clothing for out of uniform days must be Grades 7 and 8 are required to wear a dress appropriate for a Catholic school environment. shirt (see previous page) and tie with khaki or Tops with suggestive or offensive language and/ navy pants. Boys may not wear shorts on or pictures are unacceptable. Tanks, tiny tees, dress uniform days. spaghetti straps, sheer tops, bare midriff are not permitted. Tops/t-shirts are not to be tied Gym Uniform Policy Grades K-8: or rubber-banded. Camouflage attire, oversized The physical education uniform consists of a gold pants, miniskirts, short dresses or skirts are not Notre Dame tee shirt (purchased at school) and solid appropriate. Tight fitting clothing of any kind are navy shorts with the ND logo (purchased at school). not permitted. All students who purchased the warm-up suits may wear them to school on their gym days. They should wear their gym shorts and t-shirt under the warmup suits. On warm days, the students only need to wear their gym warm-up pants with their gym shirts and shorts when they arrive in the morning. The students will be permitted to take off their warm-up suits on warm days. Tennis shoes may be worn with the warm-up suits. Students that did not purchase gym warm-up suits will change before and after gym class. Gym warm-up suits may not be worn to school on dress uniform days. All students are required to change for gym on dress uniform days. If the students choose to wear leggings/yoga pants they must have a skirt/shirt worn over them that is no more than 2 inches above the knee. If shorts are worn, they must be at least fingertip length. Running shorts are not permitted. If a student comes dressed inappropriately, the student will be required to call home for a change of clothes or given a uniform to wear for the day. Gym Uniform Shoe Policy All students are required to have a pair of non-marking tennis shoes at school that will be worn only for gym class. The tennis shoes are to be traditional in style and the color/colors of your choice. Shoes must either have Velcro or laces that are fully laced and tied. No light-up, high-top or mid-top tennis shoes may be worn for gym class. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 15 Kindergarten 2 1 3 2 2 2 1 6 1 1 3 1 1 1 pairs of headphones ** NDES pencil pouch* laddie pencils with erasers* pink erasers thin highlighters boxes of 24 count crayons box of colored pencils large glue sticks pair of scissors single subject notebook 2-pocket folders blue 3-prong folder dry erase marker dry erase eraser First Grade 1 pair headphones ** 2 NDES pencil pouches* 6 laddie pencils with erasers * 2 pink erasers 1 box of crayons (24) 1 package of 8 count classic thin colored markers 1 package 8 count classic fat colored markers 3 large glue sticks 1 pair of scissors 8 2-pocket folders includes 1 for Spanish 1 of each addition/subtraction flash cards for home use 1 drawstring bag for gym 1 wide rule notebook 2 highlighters 4 dry erase markers clear contact paper for covering work books Second Grade 1 pair headphones ** 1 NDES pencil pouch* 4 laddie pencils with erasers* 1 homework assignment book* 1 box of #2 pencils 1 pink eraser 1 box of crayons (24) 1 box of colored pencils (12) 1 large glue stick 1 Elmer's glue (4 oz) 1 pair of small scissors 1 box thin markers 4 1 subject wide rule notebooks 6 2-pocket folders includes 1 for Spanish 1 drawstring bag for gym 2 dry erase markers 1 pack of highlighters clear contact paper for covering work books Third Grade 1 pair of headphones** 1 NDES pencil pouch* 1 homework assignment notebook* 6 #2 pencils 1 red pen 1 eraser 1 box of colored pencils (24) 1 box of markers 1 bottle of Elmers glue 2 large glue sticks 1 pair of scissors 1 metric/US ruler 12 inches not bendable 2 single subject notebooks 4 2-pocket folders 1 drawstring bag for gym 2 thin dry erase markers blue or black 2 packs 3x5 lined note cards 4 packs of post-it notes 1 composition notebook 1 highlighter clear contact paper for covering work books Freckle Juice by Judy Blume School Supply List Preparation is the Key to Success Fourth Grade 1 pair of headphones** 1 NDES pencil pouch* 1 homework assignment notebook* 6 #2 pencils not mechanical 2 red pens - non retractable 1 pink eraser 1 yellow highlighter 1 large glue stick 1 pair of scissors 1 hard ruler (metric/U.S. - 12 in.) 1 single subject notebook 1 3-subject notebook 1 black Sharpie marker 2 thin dry erase markers 1 1" binder (no trapper keepers) 1 pkg. 8 pocket dividers for binder 2 pkg. wide ruler notebook paper 3 2-pocket folders 1 box of colored pencils (12) 1 pkg. of markers (thin 8-12) 1 drawstring bag for gym 1 pack index cards 1 pack post-it notes clear contact paper for covering work books Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 16 Fifth Grade 1 pair of headphones** 2 NDES pencil pouches* 1 homework assignment notebook* 4 #2 pencils 3 erasable pens not spring-loaded 3 red pens not spring-loaded 1 pink eraser 2 highlighters 2 large glue sticks 1 pair of scissors 1 12” ruler (metric and US) 5 single subject spiral notebooks includes 1 for Spanish 2 stenographer notebooks 1 composition notebook for STEM 1 1” binder (no trapper keepers) 1 pocket divider set for binder 2 packages of loose leaf paper (wide rule) 6 2-pocket folders 1 set of colored pencils (24, soft) 1 small hand held pencil sharpener 1 set of markers (thin) 1 drawstring bag for gym 2 packs of 3x5 index cards 1 box for index cards clear contact paper for covering work books Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Curtis Sixth Grade 1 pair of headphones** 1 NDES pencil pouch* 1 homework assignment notebook* 4 #2 pencils 6 erasable pens – blue or black 2 red pens 1 large eraser 1 clear protractor 1 basic calculator 2 highlighters 2 large glue sticks 1 pair of scissors 12 inch ruler 6 single subject notebooks includes 1 for Spanish 2 - 1 1/2 inch binders one to be used for science, the other for social studies) 1 - pack (8 dividers to be used for science and social studies) 1-2” binder with 5 dividers for math loose leaf centimeter graph paper 2 composition notebooks 1 is for STEM 2 packs loose leaf paper – wide ruled 1 expandable file with 8 to 12 pockets 6 2-pocket folders 1 folder with 3 prongs 1 box of colored pencils (24) 1 box of thin markers 1 drawstring bag for gym 4 packs 3x5 lined white note cards clear contact paper for covering work books Hatchet by Gary Paulsen Seventh & Eighth Grade 1 pair of headphones** 1 NDES pencil pouch* 1 homework assignment book* 3 #2 pencils 1 package mechanical pencils 4 pens (blue or black) 2 red pens 1 protractor and/or 12” ruler 1 pack of loose math graph paper not notepad style (place in math binder) 4 highlighters 1 large glue stick 1 white out (not yellow) 1 pair of scissors 3 1-subject spiral notebooks religion, health, foreign lang. (please label) 4 1-1/2” binders for math, social studies, English, science (please label) 1 pack of 5 tab dividers without pockets for math 2 packs of 8 tab dividers with pockets for science, social studies, English 5 packs loose leaf paper--wide ruled for math, social studies, English, science (place in binders) 6 2-pocket folders with 3 prongs (for religion, health, computer, art, music, foreign language)—please label each on outside with your name and subject. 1 box colored pencils (at least 12 soft) 1 box thin markers (at least 12) 1 drawstring bag for gym 4 packs 3x5 index cards 1 dry erase marker & eraser 1 flash drive 1 composition notebook for STEM scientific calculator for all non-algebra students Supply List Success is where preparation and opportunity meet! ****Please be well organized for the first day. Binder checks will occur within first 2 weeks of school. Please label the binders w/respective tabs: Math: Label 5 tabs with no pockets: toolkit/notes; collaboration; homework; assessments; graph & notebook paper English: Label 8 tabs w/pocket: bellwork; grammar; figurative language; writing; reading; vocab/spelling; journal; SRA Science: Label 3 tabs: TBD at school Social Studies: Label 5 tabs: student news, pulp histories, projects, homework, test/quizzes. 7th grade: Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt 8th grade: The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton Note: English packet for both 7th & 8th grade to be completed for 1st day of school. Math work to be completed for 1st day of school. **Both English and Math will be taken as 1st grades of the year. All students received packets before summer break. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 17 Registration information will be in your Orientation Day folder NDES Back-to-School Newsletter NDES After School Clubs After School Activities for Everyone NDES After School Clubs Page 18 Notre Dame Elementary School was recognized as a 2014 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence recipient by the United States Department of Education. This is the highest national award that a school can receive in our country. On November 10th and 11th, 2014, Arne Duncan, the United States Secretary of Education, presented the Blue Ribbon Award at a ceremony in Washington D.C. Engagement in reading and writing across the content areas, hands-on learning and tiered instruction are essential aspects of the NDES program. With a focus on critical thinking and problem solving, students learn to communicate with a depth of understanding. The school’s progressive technology program is integrated into all subject areas. The National Blue Ribbon program honors “Exemplary High Performing Schools,” using nationally normed tests. To apply for the award, a school must perform in the top 15% of the nation in both reading and math. In addition to meeting the test requirements, Notre Dame Elementary completed an extensive application which summarized the school’s strengths and accomplishments and demonstrated how the school community works together to Nurture Dreams, Excellence and Success. Notre Dame’s application and the official announcement can be viewed at: Notre Dame’s community spirit can be attributed to its committed partnership with the Board of Directors, parents, staff and students, as well as its deep relationship with the Sisters of Notre Dame. Notre Dame’s dedication to respecting the dignity of the human person is evident in its many outreach programs. The school’s faith-based curriculum encourages students to become productive, responsible and exemplary members of society. http://www2.ed.gov/programs/nclbbrs/ index.html. Notre Dame’s journey towards the Blue Ribbon began several years ago. It has been a true team effort with faculty, staff, parents and students striving for continuous excellence, strong determination and a passion to share our story. Rigorous academics, leadership, spirituality, service, values and the development of individual gifts and talents are what truly define Notre Dame. There are approximately 31,000 chartered private/ Catholic schools in our country. Each year, 0.1% or less of those schools have an opportunity to apply for and receive the Blue Ribbon Award. In 32 years, less than 3% of all private/Catholic schools in our country have received this prestigious award. National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Shine Proudly!!! Notre Dame always imagines possibilities and opportunities. The school empowers students by providing a strong foundation to pursue their dreams, achieve academic excellence, realize their full potential and succeed in making a positive difference in today’s world. NDES is a part of something that is truly amazing! We should all Shine Proudly! NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 19 We Remember... Heal the past..Live the present...Dream the future This past year, Notre Dame Elementary experienced a tremendous loss to its school community. Mrs. Kathy McPhillips and Mrs. Christine Brinkman were incredible strong women who both made and impact on the children’s lives at NDES. “Impact Award” and the “Inspiration~Perseverance Award” To honor both these teachers, we have established the “Impact Award” in honor of Mrs. McPhillips, which will be given to an 8th grader at their graduation. To honor, Mrs. Brinkman we have established the “Inspiration~Perseverance Award” to be given to a 7th grader at the end of the year Awards Assembly. Our Lady’s Garden Also, with the help of Mr. Gallagher, a beautiful garden for Mrs. McPhillips and Mrs. Brinkman is being created. The garden will be called “Our Lady’s Garden” in honor of the Blessed Mother. Trees will be planted in the garden in memory of both Mrs. Brinkman and Mrs. McPhillips. There will be beautiful flowers and a water feature will also be added. The garden will take life this year and continue to grow and expand in the years ahead. We envision a peaceful garden with picnic tables where classes can meet for their outdoor classes or for some quiet time of reflection. Both Chris Brinkman and Kathy McPhillips would have loved it! Donations will be accepted to help with the creation of the Our Lady’s Garden. To make a donation, please make checks payable to to NDES in reference to Our Lady’s Garden. An online donation option will be available by Orientation Day. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 20 Living the faith in the light of Jesus Christ, each student becomes whole, mind, body and soul. Notre Dame Elementary School students are encouraged to learn about and live out their Catholic faith on a daily basis. As part of our Catholic identity, NDES students attend Mass each month and participate in prayer services throughout the school year. In addition, students particpate in spiritual retreats and community service projects to help with their spiritual growth. Spiritual and Faith Formation Monthly School Masses Prayer Services National Blue Ribbon Celebratory Mass with Bishop Lennon 6th-8th Grade Spiritual Retreats hosted by Beacon Street 2nd Grade Bread Day and Jesus Day Stations of the Cross Reconciliation K - 5th Grade Level Retreats CAtholic Identity NDES..... A Campus that Cares Community Service and Outreach Projects As a school community, NDES supports many of the following charities and causes throughout the year. SND Missions Colin Boland Memorial Sam Szabo Foundation Kick-It for Cancer North Coast Community Homes Geauga Hunger Center Archbishop Lyke Schools - Preschool Easter Eggs Coats for Kids Breast Cancer Juvenile Diabetes Foundation American Heart Association Stockings for Soldiers Legacy Project - Giving Tree Geauga County Animal Rescue Village NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 21 NDES annually measures students’ progress through the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills. The chart below illustrates the performance level of each NDES grade level in Math and English Language Arts (ELA). In 2015, NDES continued to consistently score above the 85th percentile. The information received from the CogAT Scores and Iowa Tests of Basic Skills are used to prepare curriculum and drive instruction. NDES ELA Iowa Scores 100 Percentile 80 Academic Excellence Encouraging Excellence 60 40 20 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Grade Level NDES Math Iowa Scores 100 Percentile 80 60 40 20 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Grade Level * The graphed scores are reported as percentiles for each grade level. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 22 Science Olympiad Students in grades 6 – 8 had the opportunity to participate in the Science Olympiad program at NDES. Students met weekly with their coaches to prepare for these events. Twenty-two students participated in the St. Ignatius competition with twelve students moving on to the regional competition. Science Fair Students from grades K – 8 had the opportunity to participate in the NDES Science Fair. The Science Fair is a natural extension of what occurs in the classroom. It gives students the opportunity to apply the scientific process to a question or problem that they want to learn about. It is a required part of the curriculum from grades 6 – 8 and optional for grades K – 5. This year we had forty-five k-5th graders participate and one hudred and ninety-four 6th – 8th graders participate. Science and Engineering Fairs Twelve 7th and 8th graders were invited to go on to the Northeastern Ohio Science and Engineering Fair. Four of those students went on to participate in the Ohio Science Day at the University of Akron, three of them receiving an Excellent rating. One student received a Superior rating and was invited to move on to the State Science Day at Ohio State University in May. His science project, titled Bending Electrical Time received a Merit Award from Ohio State University and an Excellent Rating Award from the Ohio Academy of Arts and Science. Academic Competitions Inspriring Success Greater Cleveland Council of Teachers of Mathematics 5th, 7th and 8th Grade Tournament Twelve 7th and 8th graders and four 5th graders from NDES participated in the GCCTM Tournament. This tournament focuses on working together to solve math problems. They prepared weekly with their math teacher/coach for this competition. The goal of the GCCTM Problem Solving Tournament is to promote enthusiasm for math, challenge students in an energizing setting and celebrate community-wide achievements of these young mathemeticians. Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl Competition This past fall students participated in the Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl Competition. The competition consisted of 300 questions in the areas of science, social studies, math, reading, sports and general questions. Nine teams from Ohio, Illinois, Indiana and Missouri competed in the competition. The NDES team of fifteen 8th grade Challenge students came in second place with a score of 90%. The 7th grade team of eleven students placed 3rd in the competition with an 87%. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 23 Destination Imagination In March, fourteen 3rd & 4th grade Challenge students participated in the Destination Imagination Program at Hiram College. The program focuses on creativity, teamwork and problem solving skills. Students met weekly throughout the year to prepare for this event. Shearer’s Potato Chip Inventions In April, thirty-seven 4th and 5th grade Challenge students participated in the Shearer’s Potato Chip Invention Competition. The students were asked to reuse a Shearer’s potato chip bag or bags and invent something with it that would make life easier for someone or something. Nine of the students were semi-finalists and three were chosen as finalists and were invited to lunch at the Shearer’s facility and will be receiving a cash award. Poetry Contest from Creative Communications As a part of English class, sixth grade students wrote poetry and submitted their selections to Creative Communications. Twenty-seven students had their poetry published in the yearly anthology. Geography Bee NDES students from 5th - 8th grade participated in the Geography Bee. The NDES Geography Bee winner was invited to represent NDES at the state level competition. Scripps Spelling Bee NDES students from 4th - 8th grade participated in the NDES School Spelling Bee. The winner represented NDES at the Geauga County Catholic Spelling Bee and went on to compete at the Geauga County Spelling Bee and earned 2nd place. Academic Competitions Imagining Possibilities Power of the Pen Our 7th and 8th grade Power of the Pen team competed in the District Regional and State Tournaments. There were approximately 90 writers for 7th grade and approximately 90 writers for 8th grade. Three students qualified for the state competition. The 7th grade team won a 1st place trophy at districts and a 3rd place trophy at regionals! Power of the Pen awards a Sweepstakes Award which is a combination of 7th and 8th grade team scores. NDES won 4th overall out of 30 schools. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 24 One Size Does Not Fit All NDES believes each child is unique with different abilities, experiences and learning styles. Regardless of their individual differences, students are expected to master the same concepts, principles and skills set forth by the Diocese of Cleveland. It is our job to help each student succeed by identifying the differences and implementing different teaching strategies that will reinforce the required curriculum. A strong connection between the student and curriculum is crucial for academic success. Our NDES teachers are essential in providing this link. Through the use of traditional and progressive teaching methods, NDES integrates technology, programs, speakers, handson manipulatives, collaboration and culmination activities and field experiences to establish the learning relationship between the student and curriculum. Below are examples of how technology is integrated throughout the curriculum at NDES. Seamlessly integrated across the curriculum, NDES utilizes a multi-platform technology program. Technology is a tool that augments the learning process. Practice Math, Spelling and Phonics Preschool - 3rd grade students practiced math facts, spelling words, and phonics skills with iPads. Because of technology, the role of the teacher has adjusted from the “sage on the stage” to a “guide on the side”. Teachers serve as facilitators of learning as students create and explore with technology. With technology, the possibilities are endless. From preschool - 8th grade, iPads, laptops, tablets and ActivBoards are as necessary as pencils, pens, crayons, books and chalkboards. At NDES, students use all available tools, traditional and progressive, to research, design, and problem solve. Kindergarten-eighth grade students used iPads, and laptops to take their Accelerated Reading tests. Each classroom is outfitted with a mutlimedia cart and ActivBoard that integrates with iPads for an engaging collaborative learning experience. Below are examples of how technology was integrated throughout the curriculum this year at NDES. State of the Art Computer Technology Curriculum Students from Kindergarten - eighth grade not only learned word processing and typing skills, but learned how to create movies, slideshow presentations, graphic design skills, and the logic of computer coding and programming. Accelerated Reading Tests State of the Art Technology Integrating Technology Across Curriculum Research Tools Seventh grade students used iPads as a research tool while engaging in the dissection of a cow eyeball and earthworms. Third grade students used iPads to research the history of communication and chocolate. Create Three Dimensional Houses with 3-D Printers in STEM Eighth grade students created three dimensional houses with the 3-D Printer during their study on architecture. Students learned how to use the 3-D software to design the interior and exterior of a house while maintaining a budget for the materials. Create Young Author’s Books Fifth grade students used laptops to write and create their Young Author’s stories. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 25 Visualize Math Concepts with Math Manipulatives Seventh and eighth grade math students solved equations with algebra tiles and expression mats. Fourth grade students learned the foundations of fractions using fraction tiles. Third grade students used number lines, arrays, skip counting and pictures to reinforce multiplication and division concepts. 5th grade students used base-10 blocks to discover operations with decimals. Phonics with the Wilson Magnetic Boards The first grade phonics students mastered short vowels and continued to explore a variety of blends using the Wilson magnetic boards. Day of Clay Eighth grade students spent a day with clay in the art room building a three dimensional piece of art. They used slabs of clay to mold the clay into a pot, bowl or vase. To design their piece, they carved special designs into the clay. Afterwards, the three dimensional piece was fired and then glazed. Pumpkin Patch Each year three year old students plant seeds before summer break and then harvest pumpkins as Pre-K students. K - 8th Grade Bullies to Buddies Program Students attended a four part anti-bullying program that teaches students the skills to become assertive and solve social issues independently. Holocaust Speaker As a part of the sixth grade English curriculum, students studied the Holocaust through different pieces of literature. Sol Factor, a professor of Jewish studies at Kent State University, presented information about the Holocaust to the sixth grade students. Hands-On Programs & Speakers Going Beyond the Basics program designed for students in grades 6-8 using the curricular materials developed by the National Catholic Education Association and is endorsed by Bishop Roger Gries who serves as the Spiritual Advisor for the program. Career Week Over the course of a week, students in fourth - eighth grade listened to speakers discuss their career choices and explore over 23 different types of careers in the areas of Engineering/Technology, Entrepreneurship/ Marketing, Medicine, Law and Government. Choose Life Program Sixth, seventh and eighth grade students participated in the Choose Life Program, which teaches children the importance of human beings at every stage of life. This six week program is an innovative 100% Pro-Life NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 26 NDES integrates a holistic approach to learning through cross curricular engagement. Students collaborate together on various projects with various resources in different subject areas. A quality learning environment is fostered for students to engage in interactive and collaborative activities. These environments have been shown to contribute to better learning outcomes, including development of higher order thinking skills. 4th Grade Student Collaboration Project: Descriptive Writing Lesson Fourth grade ELA students participated in a descriptive writing lesson. For this lesson, students worked in groups of three. The first student in the group created and designed a picture of a house, the second student wrote a paper to describe the house and the third student recreated a picture of the house with technology by using the second student’s description only. They then came together and revealed their interesting results. 2nd Grade Culmination Project: Students Research and Present Information about Jellyfish Second grade students enjoyed researching different types of jellyfish using their iPads. As part of the reading curriculum, students went beyond their standard text book reading lesson, Jellies and researched facts about jellyfish. All students then colored a jellyfish picture and arranged their researched facts on the tentacles. 7th Grade Cross-Curricular Collaboration Project:Social Studies, ELA, and Computer Technology The 7th grade created documentaries, using an iMovie app on their iPads. They wrote a script, organized their movie and recorded audio to link to their pictures that they personally created using Photoshop about the Roman Empire and Christianity. Physical Education Introduces Tchoukball, A Sport That Focuses on Team Work NDES introduces a new sport to 5th - 8th grade students that avoids intense competition and utilizes every team member’s strengths and abilities without any aggressiveness or violence. The non-competitive, fast paced game Tchoukball, pronounced “chookball”, is relatively a new game invented in the 1960’s by a Swiss Biologist, Dr. Hermann Brandt. Tchoukball is played with two rebound nets at both ends of the court. There are nine players for one team. Unlike most games, in Tchoukball, you can score at both ends of the court. Each player must seek to anticipate the actions and reaction of his opponents, as well as regulate his own movements. Thinking becomes more complex and the educational potential of the game is increased. 5th Grade Cross-Curricular and Student Collaboration Project: The Solar System Fifth grade science students researched planets using the iPads and a variety of different resources. Then they used their information to create digital posters in computer class. Kindergarten Cross-Curricular, Collaborative and Culmination Project: Dr. Seuss Math Game Kindergarten students celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday during the week of March 1st by reading and learning all about Dr. Seuss and his literary works. The week concluded with students creating a math game based on a favorite Dr. Seuss book, One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, and playing the game with their classmates. 6th Grade Student Collaboration Project: Creating a New Culture The 6th grade students learned about Ancient Mesopotamia. They participated in a group activity where they had to create a new culture, develop a written language, create laws, design a temple and trade for goods (without speaking) to build a top secret invention. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Collaboration, Culmination and Cross Curricular Activities Working Together for a Better Tomorrow Page 27 Field Experiences 3rd Grade Art Field Trip: Making Paper at the Morgan Conservatory in Cleveland Third grade students took a tour of the Morgan Conservatory in Cleveland. The trip began with a tour of the factory where the students viewed many different paper presses and learned about different types of natural and organic material that make paper. The students rotated between stations to bind and marble their books. Their works of art were displayed and auctioned at the NDES Annual Auction and Casino Night. enhanced the fifth grade science curriculum. The sessions concluded with a field trip to the Rookery where each student received their own set of binoculars and tested them out. 8th Grade Washington Trip: NDES Discovers the National Treasures of Washington D.C. On April 28th, NDES students began their annual 8th grade trip to DC. Upon their arrival, the students visited the Iwo Jima Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial and the President Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. At the Arlington Cemetery, NDES students had the distinct honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. NDES toured many sites in Washington D.C. including the Lincoln, Pentagon, Korean and Vietnam Memorials. At the Capitol Building, students met with Congressman David Joyce followed by a special prayer service led by Sr. Carol Marek, SND at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Students toured the battlefields at Gettysburg and visited the Flight 93 Memorial before returning home. 5th Grade Binocular Program: Geauga Park District’s Nature Scopes Binocular Nature Education Program. Fifth grade science students participated in six interactive sessions of the Geauga Park District’s Nature Scopes Binocular Nature Education Program. This program provided hands-on instruction that NDES is a traditional school that implements both progressive and traditional learning methods. Keeping the students engaged and connected to the curriculum is essential for academic success. Phonics Phonics, along with other methods, is still utilized to teach basic reading skills. Outdoor Classrooms NDES is taking advantage of their beautiful campus by bringing the classroom outside. It’s just another way to engage students in content from all areas. Children have enjoyed reading, English, art, physical education, religion, math and even computer class outdoors. Cursive Handwriting Even though students use computers to complete projects, cursive handwriting is introduced in second grade and encouraged throughout all grade levels in school. NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 28 Field Experiences ~ Progressive and Traditional Discovering the Differences NDES Marian Circle ( $5,000+ ) *Burton Scot Contractors Scott & Emily Paulitsch Larry and Eva Dolan Hugoton Foundation *Fowler's Mill, Legend Lakes & Powderhorn Golf Courses, John & Gordana Brkic NDES Blue and Gold Circle ($2,500 - $4,999) *Matt & Kristin Dailey Kevin & Paula Doherty Dan & Diane Garey *The Kids Club Jason & Maria Savransky Jim & Ellen Heighway *Subway Michael & Paula Giudice NDES Distinguished Circle ( $1,001 - $2,499) *Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, Inc. Laszlo & Jill Harmat *Paul Murphy, Orthodontics* Paul & Danielle Murphy *AOPT Physical Therapy Michael & Kimberly Dixon *Michael & Jackie Moskal Cardinal Physical Therapy J. P. & Marie Szczyglowski Ed & Carol Hren *Matt & Jennifer Creech NDES Lion’s Pride ( $501 - $1,000) *Animal Hospital, Inc. Scott & Stacey Murray *CBC Communications Mark Dolan & Renee DeLuca Dolan *Care Plus Rick & Jeanine Kuhlman *DeJohn Funeral Homes & Crematory Ross & Patricia DeJohn *Paul Thomas, Mentor Family Practice Paul & Julia Thomas Anonymous *Maria Cirino *Todd & Emily Barnhart *John & Kelly Boland *Joe & Barbara Williams *Matthew & Jennifer Veselko *Martin & Jennifer White *Todd & Mary Ray *Brian & Suzanne Valentine *Rob & Tricia Petrie Preston Superstore Pat & Diane Preston *Ron & Christina Ricca Aladdin Food Management Services, LLC Michael & Carla Longano Sisters of Notre Dame NDES Patron’s Circle ($250 - $500) *Accurate Landscaping Timothy & Lisa Jackson *Britton Gallagher P.J. & Liana Insana *CAPGEM Technical Services, LLC Rick & Melissa Capretta *Chuck’s Garage Chuck & Lisa Weisend *Cornerstone IT Ray & Zera Paganini *East Side ENT Michael & Erin Gaugler *For Your Eyes Only Scott & Jennifer Kriessler *Florax DS Probiotic (Hebron USA) Vic & Gwenn Peroni *Great Lakes Jaw & Implant Surgery Center John & Lisa Mascaro *LMN Signature Properties Mark Gamiere & Lisa Nuzum *MYGC General Contracting, LLC Mark & Gwynne Young *Payne & Payne Builders David & Sarah Payne *Phil Prosser Photography Phil Prosser & Maria Madden *Thrasher, Dinsmore & Dolan Brandon & Heather Dynes *Top Notch Tooling, LLC Howard & Erna Mabel *Patrick & Lisa Callahan *David & Karen King John & Kathleen Streza *Tim & Joline Manning *Shawn & Tina McGraw *Dan & Stacy Modarelli *Rod & Christine Morris *Chris & Michelle Mulchin *Louis & Jacquelyn Orazem *James & Jamie Ovens Thomas & Paula Srsen *Eric & Teresa Patterson *Brad & Paula Steven *Keith & Tina Corkwell *Eric & Michelle Platz *Mark & Janeen Zumerling *Steven & Michelle Rowley *Alex & Kristen Sammut *Chris & Patti Schmid *Paul & Kimberly Boehnlein *Andrew & Kathleen Zarlinski *Joseph & Terri Smucny *Dave & Ann Corwin Gabriel F. Loiczly Charitable Lead Trust *Steven & Lori Vieira *Michael & Michelle Bissler *John & Kelly Queen *Steven & Megan Jacobs *Bruce & Pamela Burton Mrs. Ramute Mills Stephen Trudic *Michael & Martie Hays Dr. & Mrs. Dennis Lagman Mr. & Mrs. Wesley Schieferstein The Fabe Family Carolyn Nieset NDES Benefactor Circle ( $100 - $249) Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Condon Mrs. Sylvia Bolyard Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Sadowski Christine Espinosa Mr. & Mrs. Mirko Antloga Mr. & Mrs. Joseph C. Cermak Mr. & Mrs. Bill Centa Mr. & Mrs. Michael Figas Mary Kay Dumrese The Triple T Foundation Mr. & Mrs. John Weber Mr. & Mrs Rick Corwon Geauga County Commissioner Mary Samide & Frank Samide Dr. & Mrs. Richard Cavolo Rick Maguire Robert & Kim Dolan Ray & Nancy Todd Bob & Judy Corwin James & Mary Lou Marchiore Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth LaVan David Oppenlander Phyllis Coyle NDES strives to keep tuition affordable for all, while maintaining state-of-the art programs. Thank you to our NDES Fund Donors Building Foundations for Tomorrow’s Future While much of our tuition covers 80% of the budget, NDES relies on our families, friends and alumni to fund the difference. We are so grateful for the sacrifice and support of our donors and volunteers. You truly make the difference! *** Asterisked name indicates Joint Sponsor NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Page 29 NDES Friend Circle ( Up to $99) Ms. Alice Hensch Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Schwendeman Mr. & Mrs. Phil Yanchar Mr. & Mrs. Bill Miller Mr. & Mrs. Robert Frindt, Sr. Jean Siebert Ms. Margaret Alexander Mr. & Mrs. Thomas K. Joy Mr. & Mrs. Tom Farroni Ms. Peggy Halter Judy Doerr Mr. James R. Basich Gail Ann Petrie Mr. & Mrs. Fred Puente Mrs. Barbara A. Ross Mary C. Storm Merle & Sally Koenig Dick & Michele Hays Branden & Lauren Rader Janet Pintar Joseph & Rose Presot Peter Wile Wesley & Anmarie Rand Mr. Richard Lillash Howard & Anita Morman Dolores Castle Michael & Anahid Temesi Luci Dalton Lewis & Maria Galante NDES Matching Gifts Parker Hannifin Progressive NDES Faculty & Staff Alex & Jenny Massiello John & Lisa Petryszyn Edward & Kathleen Stefancin Ryan & Elizabeth Looman Jason Salerno Don & Kathy McPhillips Leslie Bell Nicholas & Colleen DiSanto Patrick & Mary Gilbert Nikki Koplow Greg & Vicky Joslin John & Colleen Musial Dave & Freddie Lelko Jack Radicelli Dan & Kathleen Schilling Patrick & Christine Casseday Chris & Chris Brinkman Jennifer Maras Sister Mary Barbara Knuff, SND Peter & Mary Ann Domanko Sister Carol Marek, SND Sister Mary Donnalee Resar, SND Doug & Diane Vanek Don & Barbara Doering Eric & Jennifer Wachob Kevin & Teresa Bell Kevin & Joelle Coates Bob & Chris Nemecek Steve & Kathy Biro Julie Amantea Dominick & Josephine Ambrose Steve Cavolo Allie Lestock Sister Barbara Soplata, SND Rachel Taylor Mike & Kelly Stefanek Sister Margaret Friel, SND Jessica Frate Josh & Allison Lowe Kevin & Juli O’Connell Walkathon T-Shirt Sponsors Achilles Running Shop Anthony Allega Cement Cambridge Street Company CCM Rental Dutch Country Restaurant H & M Excavating Herczog Heating and Cooling Junction Auto Sales Oscar Giovanni P & L Heat Treating Piesko, DDS X-Cel Athletics Atkinson Alexander & Yelena Belski Jean Mosher Peter & Sally Morris Beth Osborne Dave and Phyllis Paulitsch Richard & Marilyn Platt Tom and Kathy Dolan Scott Byard Donatelli Family Jan & Craig Rand Don & Mary Jo Dailey Walter Lazuka Christine & Stanley Wojnar Beebe Beinhardt Bhanoo Blake Bosworth Bowden Britt Cardillo Carnabuci Corwon Dailey Davet DeJohn Delgado-Llanos Dolan Flynn Fusco Gallagher Legan Gambrill Herczog Intelisano Iskra Jackson Janosy Kalman Katic, Luka Kruschke Kuhar Kuran Langer Lazuka Leaman Churby-Llanos Loiczly Longano McCully Mei Mendeszoon Mills Morris Nieset O’Brien O’Brien Oppenlander Osborne O’Toole Paulitsch Pavlic Petersen Petzing Platt Prosser Quimper Rader Rand Ratka Ravakhah Robert Rulison Salamone Samber Sasnauskas Satterlee Schlereth Skufca Spetic Sukey Sweitzer Tomsic Tuason Vaught Vitale Weber Wojnar Zart NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Thank You to NDES Fund Donors and Walkathon Sponsors Creating Dreams Page 30 Auction Donors & Advertisers Christmas Luncheon Achilles Running Shop Mrs. Kris Mendeszoon Avanti Salon Burntwood Tavern Cleveland Cavaliers DeJohn Pet Services DeJohn Funeral Home For Your Eyes Only - Kriessler Family Ignite iHeart Media The Hairlines Kalahari Resorts Pampered Chef Ms. Phyllis Coyle and Ms. Sherri Stanic Preston Chevrolet Franck Family Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum Thirty-One -Mrs. Jennifer Murray Walt Disney World Company Mrs. Gina Fusco Kruschke Family Mrs. Jenny Iafelice Loiczly Family Mrs. Elizabeth Looman Mr. & Mrs. Joe & Nancy Marella Mrs. Karen Melargno Ms. Kelly Schlereth Sukey Family Mrs. Jennifer Veselko Williams Family Annual Auction & Casino Night African Safari Wildlife Park All American Auto Wash Mr. & Mrs. Shawn & Teri Dolan Alpine Valley Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa Avanti Salon Berkshire Hills Swim Club Mr. & Mrs. John & Gordana Brkic Buckeye Chocolates Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop Chardon ATA Martial Arts/Karate for Kids Chicago Museum of Science and Industry The Cleveland Browns The Cleveland Indians Cleveland Pop Orchestra Cork-n-Bottle COSI Mr. & Mrs. Matt & Jennifer Creech Mr. & Mrs. Matt & Kristin Dailey Dairy Queen DeJohn Funeral Home DeJohn Pet Services Dworken & Bernstein Co., LPA Ferrante’s Winery Geauga Lyric Theatre Guild The Golf Dome Gourmetgiftbaskets.com Great Wolf Lodge Grimestoppers Mr. & Mrs. Michael & Paula Giudice Guido’s Pizzeria and Restaurant Hard Rock Hotel Chicago Heinen’s Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Loreto & Jenny Iafelice iHeart Media John Roberts Salon and Spa Kings Island Ladies and Gentlemen Salon and Spa Lake County Captains Mr. & Mrs. Ryan & Elizabeth Looman Notre Dame Cathedral Latin NDES Parent Association Nordstrom Cafe Mr. & Mrs. Kevin & Juli O’Connell Pizza Hut Chesterland Pizzazz Playground World, Inc. Quintealias Mr. & Mrs. Todd & Mary Ray Red Maple Inn Red Roof Inn Sara’s Place by Gavi’s Restaurant Shedd Aquarium - Chicago Sister Barbara Soplata, SND Sister Carol Marek, SND Sky Zone, Highland Heights Mr. & Mrs. John & Diane Sullivan Tiny Prints Toe Ink & Yankee Clipper Barber/Stylists Mrs. Kristen Tomsic Mrs. Jennifer Wachob Mr. & Mrs. Joseph & Barbara Williams WKYC Channel 3 Fundraiser Volunteers: Christmas Luncheon Paula Giudice Julie Thomas Cheryl Nellis Kim Dixon Lisa Callahan Melissa Capretta Tina Corkwell Jennifer Creech Beth Harb Lisa Jackson Tracy Karban Anna Lazuka Paula Steven Barbara Williams Annual Auction and Casino Night Leslie Jo Bell Milind Bhanoo Theresa Bhanoo Gordana Brkic Melissa Capretta Amy Cardillo Steven Cavolo Kim Dixon Renee Dolan Mary Ann Domanko Mary Gilbert Lisa Jackson Anna Lazuka Allison Lowe Christine Mahoney Barbara Marlowe Theresa Matteo Kellie Melin Christine Morris Jackie Moskal Christine Nemecek Beth O’Brien Lisa Petryszyn Michelle Rowley Sister Barbara Soplata Marie Szczyglowski Jennifer Veselko Barbara Williams Walkathon Volunteers Linda Bergles Renelle Bouffard Kristina Brancel Rebecca Burke Yvonne Burton Marsha Cable Lisa Callahan Melissa Capretta Amy Cardillo Julia Caschera Amy Conforte Ann Corwin Shannon Corwon Sandra Criniti Dorothy Czack Kimberly Dixon Kimberlee Doerr Heather Dynes Leticia Echanove Beverly Filipiak Jennifer Flynn Dawn Frazer Davorka Gabrovsek Paula Giudice Ashley Gotliebowski ChristineGrcar Beth Harb Liana Insana Anne Iskra Lisa Jackson Jackie Kalman Tracy Karban Jennifer Kriessler Sandra Kruschke Jeanine Kuhlman Melissa Kuran Anna Lazuka Kelly Legan Gina LoCoco Carla Longano Mary Mager Diana Elghanayan McLaughlin Kellie Melin Jamie Miller Renée Mills Jennifer Seaman Monachino Kristine Moore Cheryl Nellis Monica Nowac Beth Ann O’Brien Teresa Patterson Emily Paulitsch Carolyn Petzing Michelle Platz Rebecca Quimper Lauren Rader Laura Reed Christina Ricca Karen Rulison Melissa Salamone Kristen Sammut Kelly Schlereth Victoria Shemitz Sonja Siebert Paula Steven Marie Szczyglowski Anahid Temesi Kristen Tomsic Debra Vaught Jennifer Veselko Lisa Weisend Jennifer White Barbara Williams Kristan Wojnar NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Thank You for our Donors, Advertisers & Volunteers Creating Futures Page 31 e Help th ame eD of Notr Sisters tending by at !! teering n u l o v or NDES Back-to-School Newsletter Join us for the SND Chicken BBQ Support the Sisters of Notre Dame Page 32