qv update - Quaker Valley School District
Transcription
qv update - Quaker Valley School District
Q.V. Update Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE Quaker Valley School District 203 Graham Street Sewickley, PA 15143 PAID Sewickley, PA 15143 Permit Number 19 Back-to-School Edition This issue of Q.V. Update is designed to provide students and parents with important information about the district and our schools for the 2008-2009 school year. Q.V. UPDATE Back-to-School Edition 2008 A Publication of the Quaker Valley School District High School Construction Increases Classroom Space for Art and Technology Education Several renovation projects are underway at Quaker Valley High School to better meet the needs of its 21st century learners. Construction is expected to be complete by the start of school on Aug. 25, 2008. ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON All information is up-to-date at the time of printing. Please view the Quaker Valley School District website (www.qvsd.org) for additional information. “These capital projects are important to meeting the needs of today’s learners,” Superintendent Joseph Clapper, D.Ed. said. “Additional curricular needs, combined with increased enrollment, necessitated additional space for the technology education and art programs.” Art Room The new auditorium sound system will support numerous drama productions, concerts, assembly programs, and other special events that are routinely conducted at Quaker Valley High School. Art Storage JERRY VESHIO: COACHING SUCCESS Jerry Veshio, 30-year Quaker Valley veteran, has been head track coach for the past 11 seasons. The success of both boys and girls track is evident in the numerous banners displayed in the QVHS gymnasium. Combining section, WPIAL and state victories, the track teams have earned 46 titles since 1981. Veshio attributes the teams’ successes not only to individual athletes but also to the uniqueness of the track program. Track, unlike other sports, offers the flexibility for more athletes to compete while maintaining their studies and participating in other activities. Team members can practice independently; if someone misses a day, it does not impact the success of the practice or team morale the way that it might in another sport like football. “In addition, I can enter ten people in one event if I want to; I am not limited to the number of people playing at one time like basketball or how many lanes are available as in swimming,” Veshio explained. Veshio credits learning the importance of flexibility from Ken Johns, who was Veshio’s coach in high school and later head coach when Veshio became an assistant. “I have been blessed to have worked with some of the very best coaches and assistant coaches during my tenure at Quaker Valley,” commented Coach Veshio. While expressing his pride in the program, Veshio recognizes that winning is not the “end all be all.” He fondly remembers working with a student athlete who was challenged academically, socially, and athletically, yet made significant improvement in his social and athletic skills throughout the season. “As a coach, it is a very different feeling to witness and facilitate that kind of success compared to watching the elite, medal-winning athlete who already had the physical and mental ability to be motivated and succeed,” Veshio explained. 12 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 New Dust Collector Former Classroom 106 New Technology Education Lab/Shop Former Tech Ed Lab/Shop New Art Studio Technology Education CAD Lab New doorway At the same time, Coach Veshio takes pride in the success of his star athletes and a very impressive team legacy. “If you look at the combination of team, section and WPIAL titles, girls track is one of Quaker Valley’s most successful sports,” Veshio states hesitantly, sensitive to the fact that as district athletic director he is proud of all QV teams. Why have Quaker Valley girls track teams won so many section titles? Veshio recognizes that winning a title is not simply based on individuals having their best performances but on a team’s winning record against competitors in the section. This interdependence fosters a lively team spirit. Veshio explains that, “Athletes understand and support the team’s success yet still have the opportunity to compete for individual honors when the team qualifies and competes at the state level.” The mix of individual effort and team pride has set Quaker Valley track apart as one of the finest programs in western Pennsylvania. www.qvsd.org Existing classroom space is being transformed into a new technology education lab, improvements are being made to the school’s art room and the auditorium is being equipped with a new, state-of-the-art sound system. “The recent improvements will greatly enhance our technology and art programs by providing adequate space and 21st century classroom equipment and materials for our students,” Andrew Surloff, high school principal, said. “Additionally, the new sound system will mirror the high quality programming and performances of our talented Quaker Valley students.” The school board and administration studied the need for the facility changes throughout the last three years. The construction plan began with a study of the program growth and course offerings in both technology education and art curriculums. CONTENTS High School Construction ........................ 1 QV Profile: Karlton Chapman ................. 2 Superintendent’s Message........................ 3 Class of 2008 Report ............................ 4,5 News From the Schools ....................... 6,7 Back to School Events ............................ 8 Curriculum Mapping ............................... 9 2007-2008 Highlights ........................... 10 Sports Ticket Information ...................... 11 Jerry Veshio: Coaching Success ............ 12 www.qvsd.org Building principals will welcome the Quaker Valley students back to school on Monday, August 25th (from left to right): Susan Gentile and Andrew Surloff, QVHS Assistant Principal and Principal; Amy Kern, Edgeworth Principal; Barbara Mellett, Osborne Principal; and Sean Aiken and Caroline Johns, QVMS Principal and Assistant Principal. Q.V. UPDATE 2008 1 SCHOOL BOARD Jack Norris, President Marianne Wagner, Vice President Mark Scioscia, Treasurer Gianni Floro Sarah Heres Dr. Florence Iwler David Pusateri Robert Riker Dr. Kausalai Wijekumar ADMINISTRATION Joseph H. Clapper, D.Ed. Superintendent 412.749.3617 Heidi Ondek, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent 412.749.3616 Deborah Deakin, Ed.D. Director of Professional Services 412.749.3620 John Sheline Director of Financial Services 412.749.3619 Sally A. Hoover, Ph.D. Director of Pupil Services 412.749.3618 Joseph A. Marrone, Ph.D. Director of Administrative Services 412.749.3604 Andrew Surloff Principal, Quaker Valley High School 412.749.6012 Susan Gentile Assistant Principal, Quaker Valley High School 412.749.6021 Sean Aiken Principal, Quaker Valley Middle School 412.749.5079 Caroline Johns Assistant Principal, Quaker Valley Middle School 412.749.5077 Amy Kern, Ed.D. Principal, Edgeworth Elementary School 412.749.3605 Barabara Mellett Principal, Osborne Elementary School 412.749.4003 The Quaker Valley School District continues its policy of non-discrimination on the basis of race, age, sex, religion, color, national origin or handicap, as applicable in it educational programs, activities or employment policies as required by Title I of the 1972 Educational Amendments, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Section 504 Regulations of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. For more information, contact the District Office, 203 Graham Street, Sewickley, PA 15143, 412-749-3600. 2 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 Profile: Karlton H Chapman, Director of Technology Karlton Chapman, Director of Technology, has been with Quaker Valley School District since 1995. Behind his quiet, conscientious, unassuming approach is a humble professional who sees the “big picture” and works tirelessly to make sure technology is functioning well for students, teachers, administrators, staff and parents. Chapman understands the vital role of technology in teaching and learning as well as adminsitration. GOLD CLUB MEMBERSHIPS for SENIOR CITIZENS All members of the Gold Card Club are entitled to free general admission to any Quaker Valley School District home athletic event (excluding PIAA playoffs,) selected plays and musical productions, certain adult education classes offered by the district, and to identified district programs. Specifically for district operated athletic events, the card itself will serve as a general admission pass. For certain identified non-athletic events, Gold Card Club members may receive discounts on the cost of the ticket. Events sponsored by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association are not included in the Gold Card program. Conditions of Membership Chapman’s educational background includes a BA from Brown University and a Masters in Business Administration and Masters of Science in Information Science from the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to working at Quaker Valley, he worked for WPGH-TV, Control Data Corporation, Information Management Resources, Apple Computer, Inc. and Intermediate Unit 1. Chapman is an adjunct professor at Duquesne University, where he teaches Instructional Design in the Graduate School of Education. Chapman learned about the importance of collaboration from his childhood experiences at the Irene Kauffmann Center, a community based organization that provided after-school and summer activities. While in high school, he was the Youth Director of Urban Youth Action, a community based support organization that provided various social and educational services. From those early experiences Chapman learned first hand that collaboration and teamwork are vital components in the successful completion of important projects. 1. Applicant must be 62 years of age and a resident of the Quaker Valley School District. 2. Seat availability may be limited for popular events. It is recommended that where seating capacity may be limited, tickets be secured by presenting the Gold Card to the school office at least ten days prior to the performance date. Gold Club Cards are available in the athletic office of the Quaker Valley High School. Quaker Valley sports fans can purchase a $50.00 season pass for entry to all regular Quaker Valley “home” games for football, girls and boys soccer, as well as girls and boys basketball. In addition, season pass holders are entitled to a parking pass for all home Chapman’s first career put him “behind the scenes” in television production where he worked on set design, construction, audio, sound and other special projects at WPGH-TV. While at Channel 53, he had the opportunity to work with computers and video editing equipment, which sparked his interest and enthusiasm for the information management industry. This led to his pursuit of an MBA with a concentration in information science management, and later, his Masters of Science degree. While at Apple Computer, Inc., Chapman was the Regional Advisory Systems Engineer. His interaction with school clients became the impetus for his interest in the technological needs of schools. He realized he could make more of a difference implementing and supporting technology on a day-to-day basis in an educational setting rather than in a sales environment. Chapman explains that, “I enjoy making a difference in a school district where the foundation of students’ academic development is established and students are identifying their interests to pursue later.” A proud Pittsburgh native, Chapman is concerned with the future of youth and understands the importance of providing reliable technologies to facilitate their success. He believes all students can achieve and attributes his personal success to the encouragement and support of his family. He is very proud of his daughter Janis and son Allen. Janis has a degree in chemical engineering, a medical degree and is currently an OB GYN specialist in Washington, D.C. His son Allen is completing a degree in mechanical engineering and has interned in aeronautical design at US Airways. Dr. Joseph Clapper, superintendent states, “Karlton is always a gentleman; he empowers everyone to achieve and treats his colleagues, every staff member, and every request as important while maintaining a clear focus on what is best for the students of Quaker Valley School District.” www.qvsd.org football games, while supplies last. Call the Quaker Valley High School Athletic Office, 412-749-6001 for further information. 2008-2009 QV Sports Ticket Prices Ticket prices for the Quaker Valley High School athletic events remain the same as last season. Football Girls and Boys Basketball Girls and Boys Soccer Adult $5 $4 $4 Student $3 $2 $2 FOR TEAM SCHEDULES: www.qvsd.org www.qvsd.org Starting and Dismissal Times Elementary Kindergarten Middle School High School Starting 8:40 a.m. 8:40 a.m. 7:45 a.m. 7:45 a.m. Dismissal 3:30 p.m 2:00 p.m. 2:50 p.m. 2:50 p.m. QVSD Enrollment* Edgeworth Osborne Middle School High School 426 390 478 617 TOTAL 1911 *As of July 30, 2008 IPM Registration Quaker Valley School District uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents and weeds. To make a request for advanced notice of specific applications, please submit your request to Mrs. McCombe in writing by email to [email protected] or by mail to the following address: IPM Registration Ms. Barbara McCombe Quaker Valley School District 203 Graham Street Sewickley, PA 15143 Recycling Deposit any of the following paper goods in the green and yellow ABITIBI Paper Retriever bins located at any QV school: Catalogs, magazines, newspapers, junk mail, envelopes, fax and copy paper, colored paper, folders. Q.V. UPDATE 2008 11 2007-2008 HIGHLIGHTS • The Pittsburgh Business Times ranked QV 10th on its annual honor roll of 106 districts in Western Pennsylvania. • QV first graders raised a record-setting $5,657 to benefit the Children’s Institute. To date, Laps for Love has generated $28,518 for the organization. Generations Together embarks on its 15th year of working with students. To volunteer, call Polly Will: 412.749.3605. • For the fourth consecutive year, QVHS earned a spot on Newsweek’s listing of the best American high schools. Ranked 811th, the district is among the top three percent of public high schools in the United States and the highest ranking school in Western Pennsylvania. • The QVHS girls’ track team won the WPIAL Team Championship for the sixth time in the last eight years. • QV junior Jessica Johnson earned the Best Documentary award from The C.A.U.S.E. Challenge™ High School Film Festival for her film Living on the Riverfront. Megan Dietz and John Gardom pose with a member of the International Bridge Convention at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in June. Megan received a scholarship due to her involvement and participation with the ACE (Architects, Construction, and Engineers) professional organization. Megan, John and Christine Jehle received .5 internship credit for their year-long participation in ACE. • For the fourth consecutive year, QV was named one of the “Best Communities in Music Education in America” by the National Association of Music Makers. • Senior Christa Rogers earned a $5,000 WPIAL scholar athlete award. • Sophomores Emily Dando and Alexia Periera were two of only 15 players from Western Pennsylvania who were selected to compete in the U.S. Lacrosse National Tournament. • The QVHS counseling program earned the designation as a Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) from the American School Counselor Association. • Fourteen QV students earned first place honors in the annual Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competition. The senior citizen prom was a big hit with QVHS students and residents of the Masonic Village. • Edgeworth fifth graders raised $1,890 to benefit the Child Health Association of Sewickley. The funds will provide supplies to parents of premature infants at Allegheny General Hospital. • 20% of the QV Class of 2008 completed one or more courses in higher education (college level) prior to graduating high school. August 2008 “There is no difference between living and learning . . . it is impossible and misleading and harmful to think of them as being separate.” ~ John Holt Dear Residents of Quaker Valley School District: On Monday, August 25, 2008, Quaker Valley will welcome nearly 2,000 students to the start of the 2008-09 academic year. Every child can learn and it is our collective charge to ensure that each student has the opportunity to achieve his or her potential. At Quaker Valley the expectations are high. As such, I look forward to celebrating the academic, artistic and athletic accomplishments of our students and staff in the upcoming school year. Summer work has kept us very busy as we prepare for the start of the 2008-09 school year. Due to numerous retirements, nearly a dozen new full-time teachers will join the Quaker Valley family this fall. Our high school project, which will create additional space for technology and art education, is nearly complete. And, the installation of a new sound system in the high school auditorium will be finished in time for the start of the school year. Last year Quaker Valley began its strategic focus of personalizing education for our students ~ one child at a time. We understand the significance of establishing positive student relationships in order to personalize for each child. All students must be provided a caring, supportive, and safe environment. Our teachers, administrators, and support staff are fully committed to creating and maintaining quality relationships with our students. The topic of relevancy is another important facet of personalizing education for each student. I am certain that many of us can recall posing the question, “Why do I have to learn this stuff?” Questioning content relevance might be considered a rite of passage for students. However, it is essential that we do our level best to help students make the connection between classroom learning with life. These connections will enhance the growth and achievement of our students ~ one child at a time. When discussing the importance of making connections between learning with life, all of us must first fully understand today’s millennial students. As you well know, technology has become the nucleus of our students’ everyday lives ~ it is absolutely essential academically and socially. As a result, educators must work diligently to meet the ever-evolving needs of 21st century learners. Translating the ongoing technological revolution into a learning experience is a fundamental part of the relevancy challenge. It is clear that our charge is to create ongoing relevant and appropriate learning opportunities for our students that extend not only their learning but ours as well. During the coming year we will continue to focus our efforts on writing and organizing a K-12 career education curriculum. Again, creating relevancy for students will play an important role in the development of career education programming. The curriculum content of career education must include both planned and spontaneous educational experiences oriented towards adding relevancy to the student’s learning process. Our role is to expand the educational environment to include cultural, social, economic, and occupational situations based on students’ needs and interests. In short, personalized and relevant learning allows the student to understand who he or she is, what adult roles seem most desirable, and how to get “from here to there” in the most productive way. I am confident that the 2008-09 school year will be exciting and productive for our Quaker Valley students and their families as we strive to connect learning with living ~ one child at a time. Sincerely yours, • Sixty-three of our 158 recent graduates completed at least one AP course and, 23 took four or more AP courses. • Rita Hoepp and Tracey Shaffer were named semi-finalists in the Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year competition. • QV’s average SAT score ranks among the top 4% of the 641 public high schools in the commonwealth. 10 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 www.qvsd.org Joseph H. Clapper, D.Ed. Superintendent www.qvsd.org Q.V. UPDATE 2008 3 CURRICULUM MAPPING: The EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY by Linda Conlon CLASS OF 2008 During the 2007-2008 school year, the school district embarked on a monumental journey, that of “mapping” the entire K-12 curriculum. The purpose of mapping curriculum is to foster the efficient and effective ongoing analysis of what is taught. Curriculum mapping is a term coined by curriculum expert Dr. Heidi Hays Jacobs. She explains, “To make sense of our students’ experiences over time, we need two lenses: a zoom lens into this year’s curriculum for a particular grade level and a wide-angle lens to see the K-12 perspective.” Number of graduates: 158 Percentage of graduates attending two-year or four-year colleges or universities: 89% Number of honors graduates (3.25 GPA or higher) 79(50%) Total number of Advanced Placement (AP) exams taken: 177 Number of students selected to Pennsylvania Governor’s Schools of Excellence: 7 Graduation speakers for 2008 were: Honored Speakers Rebecca “Reba” Ross and Elizabeth “Liz”Sparks (left and right); and Acadmeic Merit Speaker Heather Ochman (center). POST - SECONDARY PLANS Jessica Aleshire Lara Backus Anthony Robert Balotsky Anabela Michelle Bannan Matthew Frederick Bartling Tiffany Marie Bergmann Heather Besong David Jason Biederman-Adelson Alex Gregory Bob Alexandra Bourgis Alexander Noelle Brooks Vincent Brososky Michael Buvens Gregory James Challener John William Chicots John Chmay Kate Lianne Clancy Chelsie Morgan Corbett Tomasina Sara Crapis Ryan Andrew Cunningham Robert Lee Cusma Alexandra D’Alessandro Joseph C. Daniels Lueben Lynley Davis Emma Lee Decker Chelsey Ann Desjardins Lauren Devlin Philip Diemert Megan Dietz Sasha Dixon Leland Francis Drake Meredith P. Dyer Olivia Ellis Joseph William Falconi Matthew William Farward Kelsey Floro Amanda Frank John Gardom Hannah Gensheimer Daniel Goff Deja Selena Goosby Lilia Gorban Lucia Goubert Annie Elizabeth Hague Max Patrick Haley Amanda Harris 4 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 West Virginia Wesleyan College Case Western Reserve Duquesne University CCAC West Virginia University East Carolina University Work Work Tufts University University of Michigan Mercyhurst College University of Pittsburgh Univ. of Pittsburgh Greensburg Dartmouth College Clarion University West Virginia University Case Western Reserve Pepperdine University Univ. of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Culinary Institute Columbus College of Art & Design UPMC Mercy School of Nursing Brookhaven Community College Work St. Mary’s College of Maryland CCAC CCAC University of Dayton Penn State University CCAC University of Rhode Island Rollins College Work Grove City College Slippery Rock University Travel Penn State University CCAC Bucknell University Case Western Reserve University CCAC Gannon University CUNY: Brooklyn College CCAC Drexel University University of Arizona Matthew Harris Michael Harris Joshua Hays Lain Martin Healey Andrew Henning David Hickman Katharyn Louise Holquist Caitlin MuiraHough Jordan Renee Hubbard George Jackson Raja Jasper Tyler Jeffe Christine Jehle Lindsay Marie Jones Robert Fredrik Karvinen Caitlin Elizabeth Kennedy Robert Kennedy Claire Kifer Dakkia Mecai Ala Kimbrough Kristopher King Alex Kohun Gregory Keegan Kolls Aaron Kostial Kaylee Ann Krusey Joseph Edison Lagnese Maura Lally Mikael Justin Lemieux Ryan Lesondak Abraham R. Levkoy Theodore James Maloney Cristina Georgiana Marinescu Cathryn Abigail Maurice Chelsea McCutcheon Chelsea McGowan Anna Caroline McTiernan Jeffrey Michael Mende Monica Lucia Menniti Leah Mesko Sarah Michael Ashley Marie Middendorf David Miller Mary Miller Matthew Mars Mollica Calvin Moneypenny Maximilian Georg Mross Shawn Murphy CCAC Point Park University West Virginia University Hampden-Sydney College Penn State University CCAC Allegheny College Seton Hill University University of Pittsburgh Junior Hockey Penn State Beaver Penn State University Carleton College Slippery Rock University Foreign Exchange Student Work University of South Carolina American University CCAC Continuing Education Marymount Manhattan College La Roche College Whittier College CCAC Penn State Behrend Penn State University Junior Hockey CCBC Carnegie Mellon University California Univ. of PA Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Franklin Pierce University Univ. of North Carolina Charlotte Ohio University SUNY Purchase University of Tennessee Travel/Drexel University Gannon University Continuing Education CCAC Northwestern Prep School Creighton University University of Pittsburgh Edinboro University College of Wooster Penn State Behrend www.qvsd.org Teachers have always planned their lessons, and each teacher has a thorough understanding of and rationale for his or her own units of instruction. Syllabi and grade level curriculum descriptions currently exist, but no consistent mechanism had been developed whereby busy teachers could easily access and examine their place in a child’s educational continuum… and that of their colleagues. New web-based software, called TechPaths, is now being utilized by each teacher to enter his/her content, skills and assessments as they are taught. The initial part of this task was completed for every subject at each grade level by the conclusion of the 2007-08 school year. For the coming 2008-09 school year, the school district will undertake a comprehensive analysis of what is being taught and the order and depth in which concepts are covered ~ looking for gaps and redundancies, increasing overall rigor, and creating relevancy for students based on their needs and interests. Furthermore, the written, taught, and tested curriculum will be aligned with state standards as well as to 21st Century knowledge and skills. By having the district’s entire curriculum at their fingertips, teachers will easily be able to identify what students have been taught prior to their own instruction and what is expected of students in subsequent years. For example: • An eighth grade language arts teacher works with students on the literary elements of plot, setting and characterization. By searching TechPaths for these key words, the teacher can easily determine when these terms were first introduced, how often they have been taught and in what context, making sure that the understanding of them increases in complexity. • Mapping will allow educators to examine the major projects students completed in grades 5, 8 and 10 for the necessary skill development in writing, research, organization, presentation, and reflection. • The pre-AP focus in middle school will begin as teachers analyze exactly what content and skills students will need for success in high school AP courses. Teachers will then work backwards to build activities and experiences in earlier grades to better prepare students for these challenges. • The first grade curriculum can be adjusted to account for recent changes in preschool experiences and the effects of “full-day” kindergarten. With a well organized and conveniently communicated curriculum, educators will better pinpoint curricular strengths and weaknesses by measuring student achievement and comparing it to the instructional program. The power of technology will give teachers access to all the assessment data on their students as well as a more intimate knowledge of each individual student’s curricular history. This is especially important as students make the transition between buildings. Additionally, curriculum mapping will enable high caliber retiring teachers to leave a detailed legacy of their work. By examining the maps of veterans, new teachers can get up to speed more quickly, and substitutes can provide a more seamless experience by accessing the curriculum maps. As the process of mapping continues, input will be solicited from parents and students whose perspectives are helpful in designing the best possible experiences for our students. Historically, Quaker Valley students have been highly successful because of the hard work of dedicated teachers, supportive parents and a school board and community committed to excellence. With mapping, QV students can anticipate even greater gains in their education as teachers scrutinize their collective work and revise curriculum to better meet the needs of 21st Century learners. www.qvsd.org Q.V. UPDATE 2008 9 Early Childhood Initiative QVSD BACK TO SCHOOL EVENTS New Student Orientations: Edgeworth School AUG 21 9:30 AM Osborne School AUG 15 10:00 AM Middle School AUG 18 5:30 PM High School AUG 21 2:00 PM 9th Gr. Orientation AUG 22 9:00 AM Kindergarten: Parents are invited to attend the first day of school on August 25, 2008 from 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM ~ OSBORNE SCHOOL ~ Picnic SEPT 4 4:30 PM Parent Evenings: Kindergarten AUG 20 6:00 PM Grade 1 AUG 27 6:00 PM Grade 2 SEPT 2 6:00 PM Grade 3 SEPT 3 6:00 PM Grades 4/5 AUG 28 6:00 PM Open House: (Grades 1-5) OCT 2 6:30 - 8:00 PM Kindergarten OCT 2 6:00 PM ~ EDGEWORTH SCHOOL ~ Grade Level Coffees: Kindergarten AUG 20 7:00 PM Grade 1 AUG 21 7:00 PM Grade 2 SEPT 3 8:30 AM Grade 3 SEPT 4 8:30 AM Grade 4 SEPT 5 8:30 AM Grade 5 AUG 29 8:30 AM Open House OCT 2 6:30 - 8:00 PM ~ MIDDLE SCHOOL ~ Welcome Night Grade 6 AUG 21 6:00 - 8:00 PM Grade 7 & 8 SEPT 10 6:00 - 8:00 PM ~ HIGH SCHOOL ~ Open House AUG 28 6:30 - 8:00 PM 8 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 The journey of learning starts early for Quaker Valley’s youngest residents. We believe that it is essential that children start their school experience prior to kindergarten so that no student lags behind his or her classmates due to a lack of preschool experience or minimal Pre-K preparation. The district houses four preschool programs in the Edgeworth and Osborne schools. Edgeworth is the home to the Sewickley YMCA’s Institute for Creative Learning with one classroom for three year-olds and one for four year-olds. Osborne is home to three programs operated by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU): Headstart, DART and the new Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts Program, introduced by Quaker Valley last year. Betsey Wilson, Quaker Valley kindergarten teacher, Coordinator of Early Childhood Initiative and liaison for QV’s Pre-K Counts program, reports, “When we renewed our efforts to address kindergarten readiness back in 2004, twenty of our prospective students who attended Kindergarten Round-up had no preschool training. This year only two students fit that category at Kindergarten Round-up registration.” Community Storywalks promote reading to area children ages three to eight years old. In addition, Storywalks provide an opportunity for area preschool children to become familiar with the elementary schools. The Fall 2008 Community Storywalk is scheduled for Saturday, October 18th from 10:00 a.m. - 12 noon. Phil Diemert, Mitch Soman, Ruby Pinto, and Ivan Shlyahovsky spoke on behalf of Shirley Wormsley who was selcted by the seniors as “Quaker Valley Honored Teacher,” the most influencial teacher during their years from kindergarten through eighth grade. David Benjamin Nadler Claire O’Connor Heather Alexandra Ochman Jason Palevsky Sarah Marie Parker Mitchell Joseph Pawlik Zachary Perrott Christian T. Phillips Ruby Pinto Cara Poli Shane Thomas Priddy Bethany Adele Pulkowski Brian Patrick Ramoutar Dennis Redmond Emily Anne Reiser Jenna Richert Sarah Richman Kirsten Rene Robinson Christa Rogers Rebecca Sue Ross Elizabeth Bess Ruzich Chelsea Safran Anjelica Salih Hope Scalercio Paul Francois Schumacher Cody Scott Ebony Sewell Amber Shelton Joshua Shields Ivan Shlyahovsky Rochester Institute of Technology Marymount Manhattan College Penn State University College of Wooster LaRoche College Colorado State University Millersville University: Honors College Duquesne University Columbia College of Chicago Bucknell University Westminster College High Point University Penn State Behrend Duquesne University Marietta College Grove City College Brandeis University Edinboro University Morgan State University University of Pittsburgh University of Richmond University of Richmond Clarion University Catholic University of America California Polytechnic State University Ohio University Work Penn State Behrend Work CCAC Daniel Goff meets Nell and Tom Hartley and their daughter Britt following Class Night where Dan recieved the Robert H. Hartley Memorial Scholarship established by the Class of 1987 to honor their classmate, the Hartley’s son. Kyle B. Singleton Alexander Sinu Matthew Thomas Skocz Mitchell Soman Elizabeth Sparks Logan R.Stetzer Catherine Antonia Chelsea Striffler William Swanson Hayden Swegal Shauntel Taylor Paul Thomas Ashley Tobias Lindsay Powell Toth Abby Trimmer Ian MacGregor Valenzi Sophia Alleyda Valladares James Vescio Steven Robert Warhola William Warick Ross J. Watko Jamie Wessels Robert Zuberbuhler West John Wick Lemuel Wilcox Aaron Williams Nichole Wine Hannah Woomer Noah Augustus Zamagias Susanah Crowley Zeffiro Junior Hockey University of Redlands Seton Hill University Robert Morris University La Roche College Case Western Reserve Stewart Brown University University of Central Florida Washington University University of Dayton Cheyney University Art Institute of Pittsburgh Miami University of Ohio Barton College Work Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Drexel University CCAC West Virginia University The Hill School University of Pennsylvania College of Wooster Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Duquesne University Notre Dame College CCBC Quinnipiac University Robert Morris University Virginia Tech ~ QV Kid To Kid ~ The QV Kid-to-Kid Preschool offers a free program to district children. The 2008 fall session, which will be held in the high school child development classroom, starts on September 16th and runs Tuesdays and Thursdays through November 20th. The high school child development students fill each 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. session with fun and learning. The first hour features learning center activities, games and snack followed by stories and crafts. QV residents interested in having their child participate should register with Betsey Wilson at 412-749-3605 by Friday, September 5, 2008. www.qvsd.org www.qvsd.org Q.V. UPDATE 2008 5 they will study. The world language teachers are excited about the increased options for students. News From the Schools The middle and high schools will slightly alter their start and end times; both schools will start at 7:45 am and end at 2:50 pm. High School The high school curriculum will be expanded through new pilot programs in both World History and World Languages. For the first time, Quaker Valley will offer an AP World History on-site AP World History course targeted for students in 10th grade. Quaker Valley High School National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence 625 Beaver Road Leetsdale, PA 15056 412.749.6000 Andrew Surloff, Principal 412.749.6012 Susan Gentile, Assistant Principal 412.749.6021 Quaker Valley Middle School is pleased to have Christy Clapper return to her position in the middle school guidance office, having earned her doctorate from Penn State University. Jessica Geis-Frysinger will join her to complete the middle school guidance counseling team. Geis-Frysinger graduated from Elizabethtown College with a BS in Elementary and Early Childhood Education and received her Masters in Education from Boston University. She received her school counseling certification while residing in Massachusetts. Recently, she was an elementary school counselor for the Upper Saint Clair School District. Penn State Beaver has been added as a dual enrollment partner so that juniors and seniors will have more opportunities to take college level courses whose credits will transfer to most of the nation’s colleges and universities. Through this grant-funded program, parents may see a 60% savings on tuition. Emily Hodge makes the change from long-term substitute to language arts teacher at Quaker Valley Middle School. Hodge received her BA, Master of Arts in English and Literature as well as her Master of Teaching from University of Virginia. Summer construction has expanded the space for technology and art education with the ultimate goal of adding more offerings for students as well as enhancing existing course offerings. Edgeworth and Osborne The district welcomes back principal Dr. Amy Kern who was on child-care leave for the 2007-08 school year. Year two of the Classrooms for the Future program will provide for increased implementation of 21st Century instructional technology with the addition of new interactive whiteboards, LCD projectors, and new educational software packages. Mr. Paul Bodura will continue to serve as a Classrooms for the Future coach. Jennifer Bebout joins the QVHS mathematics department filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Bill Hamilton. Bebout is a recent graduate of the University of Pittsburgh where she received her BS in Mathematics as well as certification in secondary mathematics education. Siegfried received her bachelor’s degree in music education from Oberlin College and a Masters in Special Education from Andrews University. She most recently served as an alternative education teacher at Sto-Rox Middle School and taught band, general music and special education for the Baldwin Whitehall School District. Marianne Cibulas will undertake a one-year assignment to create a K-12 career exploration curriculum. Middle School Middle school team configurations will remain the same in 6th grade; however, there are Quaker Valley Middle School changes to the configuration for both 7th and 8th grade students. Seventh grade students National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence will form one team, and eighth grade students will form another team. These changes will 201 Graham Street more appropriately meet the academic, social and emotional needs of the 7th and 8th grade Sewickley, PA 15143 students. Grade level teams will continue to meet on a regular basis and plan some cross412.749.5079 curricular activities that will enhance learning opportunities for all students. Caroline Johns, Assistant Principal 412.749.5077 The middle school will provide each student with a laptop computer to use throughout the school day. The student will receive the computer in homeroom first thing in the morning and return the computer at the end of the day. This exposure to technology will afford the students limitless learning opportunities. The middle school world language continues its expanded options for 6th and 7th grade students. The current 6th graders will explore French, German, and Spanish in a course that will last for 12 weeks. Seventh grade students have a choice of which world language 6 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 Tom Forrest will be a new language arts teacher for at the middle school. Forrest received his BA in English from University of Pittsburgh and earned his Post-Baccalaureate Certification in Secondary Education at Point Park University. The high school will pilot an online conversational language program to 11th and 12th grade students who have already completed two years of language at the high school level. Using online software, the new program will allow a small high school like Quaker Valley to expand its current language offerings in areas such as Mandarin (Chinese), Japanese, Arabic, Latin, Italian, German, and Russian. Jason Brindza and Ayozieuwa “Ayo” Seigfried join the high school learning support team. Brindza earned his bachelor’s degree from Penn State and received his Masters of Education in Mental and Physical Disabilities from University of Pittsburgh. Sean Aiken, Principal 412.749.5079 The middle school core academic classes will return to a nine-week grading period. This change will unify the core classes with the exploratory classes and allow the entire building to function on the same grading calendar. The school will mail progress reports to parents at the midway point of each nine-week period as well as the end of each marking period. www.qvsd.org Amy Balbach will move from Life Skills teacher at Edgeworth Elementary to 8th grade learning support teacher at the middle school. Since re-adopting the Everyday Mathematics curriculum, the elementary schools will continue to add components and refine the teaching practices associated with this highly successful math curriculum. Edgeworth’s Working Our Way (“WOW”) program continues to be a well-received school wide positive behavior plan. Edgeworth is pleased to offer student planners (grades 2-5) which will highlight a monthly character development theme including hard work, loyalty, cooperation, determination and team spirit. After completing a year splitting her responsibilities between learning support at the high school and paraprofessional work at Edgeworth, Rachel Stultz makes the move to Edgeworth to replace Amy Balbach in the life skills classroom. Stultz holds a BS and dual certification in education and special education from Slippery Rock University. Everyone at Osborne is beginning a new “adventure” together. The literacy theme of “adventure” will be highlighted throughout the school year. Based upon an upcoming visit by author Gordon Korman whose stories actively engage students in the wonder of reading using exciting themes and humor, students will participate in a variety of activities and programs throughout the year. Much planning is in the works beginning with a kick-off Adventure Day in early October. In addition, all staff will be promoting reading using a “book club” approach which will connect students with various adults throughout the building while enhancing their reading skills. Edgeworth Elementary School National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence 200 Meadow Lane •Sewickley, PA 15143 412.749.3605 Amy Kern, Ed.D., Principal (left) ~ Osborne Elementary School National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence 1414 Beaver Road • Sewickley, PA 15143 412.749.4003 Barbara Mellett, Principal (right) Annette Matthews will teach Kindergarten at Osborne. Matthews is a North Hills graduate with a BS in Elementary Education and Psychology from Penn State University. She most recently taught kindergarten in the North Hills School District and in Clermont, Florida. Dana Pecanis joins the Osborne staff as a 2nd grade teacher. Pecanis earned her BA in Biochemistry and Political Science from Washington and Jefferson College and her MA in Elementary Education from Chatham College. Vicki Shaughnessy returns to Osborne as a learning support teacher. She supported the program last year as a long-term substitute and had previously taught fourth and third grade as a long-term sub. Shaughnessy, a QV graduate, earned her BA in Elementary and Special Education from Carlow University and her Masters from Point Park University. Lindsay Scharding will move from middle school language arts to be a 4th grade teacher at Osborne Elementary. Quaker Valley graduate Laura McDaniel returns to the district as the Speech Language Clinician. McDaniel holds a BA an MA in Speech Pathology. She earned her undergraduate degree from Loyola College in Baltimore, Maryland and her masters from University of Pittsburgh. www.qvsd.org Q.V. UPDATE 2008 7 they will study. The world language teachers are excited about the increased options for students. News From the Schools The middle and high schools will slightly alter their start and end times; both schools will start at 7:45 am and end at 2:50 pm. High School The high school curriculum will be expanded through new pilot programs in both World History and World Languages. For the first time, Quaker Valley will offer an AP World History on-site AP World History course targeted for students in 10th grade. Quaker Valley High School National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence 625 Beaver Road Leetsdale, PA 15056 412.749.6000 Andrew Surloff, Principal 412.749.6012 Susan Gentile, Assistant Principal 412.749.6021 Quaker Valley Middle School is pleased to have Christy Clapper return to her position in the middle school guidance office, having earned her doctorate from Penn State University. Jessica Geis-Frysinger will join her to complete the middle school guidance counseling team. Geis-Frysinger graduated from Elizabethtown College with a BS in Elementary and Early Childhood Education and received her Masters in Education from Boston University. She received her school counseling certification while residing in Massachusetts. Recently, she was an elementary school counselor for the Upper Saint Clair School District. Penn State Beaver has been added as a dual enrollment partner so that juniors and seniors will have more opportunities to take college level courses whose credits will transfer to most of the nation’s colleges and universities. Through this grant-funded program, parents may see a 60% savings on tuition. Emily Hodge makes the change from long-term substitute to language arts teacher at Quaker Valley Middle School. Hodge received her BA, Master of Arts in English and Literature as well as her Master of Teaching from University of Virginia. Summer construction has expanded the space for technology and art education with the ultimate goal of adding more offerings for students as well as enhancing existing course offerings. Edgeworth and Osborne The district welcomes back principal Dr. Amy Kern who was on child-care leave for the 2007-08 school year. Year two of the Classrooms for the Future program will provide for increased implementation of 21st Century instructional technology with the addition of new interactive whiteboards, LCD projectors, and new educational software packages. Mr. Paul Bodura will continue to serve as a Classrooms for the Future coach. Jennifer Bebout joins the QVHS mathematics department filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Bill Hamilton. Bebout is a recent graduate of the University of Pittsburgh where she received her BS in Mathematics as well as certification in secondary mathematics education. Siegfried received her bachelor’s degree in music education from Oberlin College and a Masters in Special Education from Andrews University. She most recently served as an alternative education teacher at Sto-Rox Middle School and taught band, general music and special education for the Baldwin Whitehall School District. Marianne Cibulas will undertake a one-year assignment to create a K-12 career exploration curriculum. Middle School Middle school team configurations will remain the same in 6th grade; however, there are Quaker Valley Middle School changes to the configuration for both 7th and 8th grade students. Seventh grade students National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence will form one team, and eighth grade students will form another team. These changes will 201 Graham Street more appropriately meet the academic, social and emotional needs of the 7th and 8th grade Sewickley, PA 15143 students. Grade level teams will continue to meet on a regular basis and plan some cross412.749.5079 curricular activities that will enhance learning opportunities for all students. Caroline Johns, Assistant Principal 412.749.5077 The middle school will provide each student with a laptop computer to use throughout the school day. The student will receive the computer in homeroom first thing in the morning and return the computer at the end of the day. This exposure to technology will afford the students limitless learning opportunities. The middle school world language continues its expanded options for 6th and 7th grade students. The current 6th graders will explore French, German, and Spanish in a course that will last for 12 weeks. Seventh grade students have a choice of which world language 6 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 Tom Forrest will be a new language arts teacher for at the middle school. Forrest received his BA in English from University of Pittsburgh and earned his Post-Baccalaureate Certification in Secondary Education at Point Park University. The high school will pilot an online conversational language program to 11th and 12th grade students who have already completed two years of language at the high school level. Using online software, the new program will allow a small high school like Quaker Valley to expand its current language offerings in areas such as Mandarin (Chinese), Japanese, Arabic, Latin, Italian, German, and Russian. Jason Brindza and Ayozieuwa “Ayo” Seigfried join the high school learning support team. Brindza earned his bachelor’s degree from Penn State and received his Masters of Education in Mental and Physical Disabilities from University of Pittsburgh. Sean Aiken, Principal 412.749.5079 The middle school core academic classes will return to a nine-week grading period. This change will unify the core classes with the exploratory classes and allow the entire building to function on the same grading calendar. The school will mail progress reports to parents at the midway point of each nine-week period as well as the end of each marking period. www.qvsd.org Amy Balbach will move from Life Skills teacher at Edgeworth Elementary to 8th grade learning support teacher at the middle school. Since re-adopting the Everyday Mathematics curriculum, the elementary schools will continue to add components and refine the teaching practices associated with this highly successful math curriculum. Edgeworth’s Working Our Way (“WOW”) program continues to be a well-received school wide positive behavior plan. Edgeworth is pleased to offer student planners (grades 2-5) which will highlight a monthly character development theme including hard work, loyalty, cooperation, determination and team spirit. After completing a year splitting her responsibilities between learning support at the high school and paraprofessional work at Edgeworth, Rachel Stultz makes the move to Edgeworth to replace Amy Balbach in the life skills classroom. Stultz holds a BS and dual certification in education and special education from Slippery Rock University. Everyone at Osborne is beginning a new “adventure” together. The literacy theme of “adventure” will be highlighted throughout the school year. Based upon an upcoming visit by author Gordon Korman whose stories actively engage students in the wonder of reading using exciting themes and humor, students will participate in a variety of activities and programs throughout the year. Much planning is in the works beginning with a kick-off Adventure Day in early October. In addition, all staff will be promoting reading using a “book club” approach which will connect students with various adults throughout the building while enhancing their reading skills. Edgeworth Elementary School National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence 200 Meadow Lane •Sewickley, PA 15143 412.749.3605 Amy Kern, Ed.D., Principal (left) ~ Osborne Elementary School National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence 1414 Beaver Road • Sewickley, PA 15143 412.749.4003 Barbara Mellett, Principal (right) Annette Matthews will teach Kindergarten at Osborne. Matthews is a North Hills graduate with a BS in Elementary Education and Psychology from Penn State University. She most recently taught kindergarten in the North Hills School District and in Clermont, Florida. Dana Pecanis joins the Osborne staff as a 2nd grade teacher. Pecanis earned her BA in Biochemistry and Political Science from Washington and Jefferson College and her MA in Elementary Education from Chatham College. Vicki Shaughnessy returns to Osborne as a learning support teacher. She supported the program last year as a long-term substitute and had previously taught fourth and third grade as a long-term sub. Shaughnessy, a QV graduate, earned her BA in Elementary and Special Education from Carlow University and her Masters from Point Park University. Lindsay Scharding will move from middle school language arts to be a 4th grade teacher at Osborne Elementary. Quaker Valley graduate Laura McDaniel returns to the district as the Speech Language Clinician. McDaniel holds a BA an MA in Speech Pathology. She earned her undergraduate degree from Loyola College in Baltimore, Maryland and her masters from University of Pittsburgh. www.qvsd.org Q.V. UPDATE 2008 7 Early Childhood Initiative QVSD BACK TO SCHOOL EVENTS New Student Orientations: Edgeworth School AUG 21 9:30 AM Osborne School AUG 15 10:00 AM Middle School AUG 18 5:30 PM High School AUG 21 2:00 PM 9th Gr. Orientation AUG 22 9:00 AM Kindergarten: Parents are invited to attend the first day of school on August 25, 2008 from 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM ~ OSBORNE SCHOOL ~ Picnic SEPT 4 4:30 PM Parent Evenings: Kindergarten AUG 20 6:00 PM Grade 1 AUG 27 6:00 PM Grade 2 SEPT 2 6:00 PM Grade 3 SEPT 3 6:00 PM Grades 4/5 AUG 28 6:00 PM Open House: (Grades 1-5) OCT 2 6:30 - 8:00 PM Kindergarten OCT 2 6:00 PM ~ EDGEWORTH SCHOOL ~ Grade Level Coffees: Kindergarten AUG 20 7:00 PM Grade 1 AUG 21 7:00 PM Grade 2 SEPT 3 8:30 AM Grade 3 SEPT 4 8:30 AM Grade 4 SEPT 5 8:30 AM Grade 5 AUG 29 8:30 AM Open House OCT 2 6:30 - 8:00 PM ~ MIDDLE SCHOOL ~ Welcome Night Grade 6 AUG 21 6:00 - 8:00 PM Grade 7 & 8 SEPT 10 6:00 - 8:00 PM ~ HIGH SCHOOL ~ Open House AUG 28 6:30 - 8:00 PM 8 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 The journey of learning starts early for Quaker Valley’s youngest residents. We believe that it is essential that children start their school experience prior to kindergarten so that no student lags behind his or her classmates due to a lack of preschool experience or minimal Pre-K preparation. The district houses four preschool programs in the Edgeworth and Osborne schools. Edgeworth is the home to the Sewickley YMCA’s Institute for Creative Learning with one classroom for three year-olds and one for four year-olds. Osborne is home to three programs operated by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU): Headstart, DART and the new Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts Program, introduced by Quaker Valley last year. Betsey Wilson, Quaker Valley kindergarten teacher, Coordinator of Early Childhood Initiative and liaison for QV’s Pre-K Counts program, reports, “When we renewed our efforts to address kindergarten readiness back in 2004, twenty of our prospective students who attended Kindergarten Round-up had no preschool training. This year only two students fit that category at Kindergarten Round-up registration.” Community Storywalks promote reading to area children ages three to eight years old. In addition, Storywalks provide an opportunity for area preschool children to become familiar with the elementary schools. The Fall 2008 Community Storywalk is scheduled for Saturday, October 18th from 10:00 a.m. - 12 noon. Phil Diemert, Mitch Soman, Ruby Pinto, and Ivan Shlyahovsky spoke on behalf of Shirley Wormsley who was selcted by the seniors as “Quaker Valley Honored Teacher,” the most influencial teacher during their years from kindergarten through eighth grade. David Benjamin Nadler Claire O’Connor Heather Alexandra Ochman Jason Palevsky Sarah Marie Parker Mitchell Joseph Pawlik Zachary Perrott Christian T. Phillips Ruby Pinto Cara Poli Shane Thomas Priddy Bethany Adele Pulkowski Brian Patrick Ramoutar Dennis Redmond Emily Anne Reiser Jenna Richert Sarah Richman Kirsten Rene Robinson Christa Rogers Rebecca Sue Ross Elizabeth Bess Ruzich Chelsea Safran Anjelica Salih Hope Scalercio Paul Francois Schumacher Cody Scott Ebony Sewell Amber Shelton Joshua Shields Ivan Shlyahovsky Rochester Institute of Technology Marymount Manhattan College Penn State University College of Wooster LaRoche College Colorado State University Millersville University: Honors College Duquesne University Columbia College of Chicago Bucknell University Westminster College High Point University Penn State Behrend Duquesne University Marietta College Grove City College Brandeis University Edinboro University Morgan State University University of Pittsburgh University of Richmond University of Richmond Clarion University Catholic University of America California Polytechnic State University Ohio University Work Penn State Behrend Work CCAC Daniel Goff meets Nell and Tom Hartley and their daughter Britt following Class Night where Dan recieved the Robert H. Hartley Memorial Scholarship established by the Class of 1987 to honor their classmate, the Hartley’s son. Kyle B. Singleton Alexander Sinu Matthew Thomas Skocz Mitchell Soman Elizabeth Sparks Logan R.Stetzer Catherine Antonia Chelsea Striffler William Swanson Hayden Swegal Shauntel Taylor Paul Thomas Ashley Tobias Lindsay Powell Toth Abby Trimmer Ian MacGregor Valenzi Sophia Alleyda Valladares James Vescio Steven Robert Warhola William Warick Ross J. Watko Jamie Wessels Robert Zuberbuhler West John Wick Lemuel Wilcox Aaron Williams Nichole Wine Hannah Woomer Noah Augustus Zamagias Susanah Crowley Zeffiro Junior Hockey University of Redlands Seton Hill University Robert Morris University La Roche College Case Western Reserve Stewart Brown University University of Central Florida Washington University University of Dayton Cheyney University Art Institute of Pittsburgh Miami University of Ohio Barton College Work Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Drexel University CCAC West Virginia University The Hill School University of Pennsylvania College of Wooster Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Duquesne University Notre Dame College CCBC Quinnipiac University Robert Morris University Virginia Tech ~ QV Kid To Kid ~ The QV Kid-to-Kid Preschool offers a free program to district children. The 2008 fall session, which will be held in the high school child development classroom, starts on September 16th and runs Tuesdays and Thursdays through November 20th. The high school child development students fill each 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. session with fun and learning. The first hour features learning center activities, games and snack followed by stories and crafts. QV residents interested in having their child participate should register with Betsey Wilson at 412-749-3605 by Friday, September 5, 2008. www.qvsd.org www.qvsd.org Q.V. UPDATE 2008 5 CURRICULUM MAPPING: The EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY by Linda Conlon CLASS OF 2008 During the 2007-2008 school year, the school district embarked on a monumental journey, that of “mapping” the entire K-12 curriculum. The purpose of mapping curriculum is to foster the efficient and effective ongoing analysis of what is taught. Curriculum mapping is a term coined by curriculum expert Dr. Heidi Hays Jacobs. She explains, “To make sense of our students’ experiences over time, we need two lenses: a zoom lens into this year’s curriculum for a particular grade level and a wide-angle lens to see the K-12 perspective.” Number of graduates: 158 Percentage of graduates attending two-year or four-year colleges or universities: 89% Number of honors graduates (3.25 GPA or higher) 79(50%) Total number of Advanced Placement (AP) exams taken: 177 Number of students selected to Pennsylvania Governor’s Schools of Excellence: 7 Graduation speakers for 2008 were: Honored Speakers Rebecca “Reba” Ross and Elizabeth “Liz”Sparks (left and right); and Acadmeic Merit Speaker Heather Ochman (center). POST - SECONDARY PLANS Jessica Aleshire Lara Backus Anthony Robert Balotsky Anabela Michelle Bannan Matthew Frederick Bartling Tiffany Marie Bergmann Heather Besong David Jason Biederman-Adelson Alex Gregory Bob Alexandra Bourgis Alexander Noelle Brooks Vincent Brososky Michael Buvens Gregory James Challener John William Chicots John Chmay Kate Lianne Clancy Chelsie Morgan Corbett Tomasina Sara Crapis Ryan Andrew Cunningham Robert Lee Cusma Alexandra D’Alessandro Joseph C. Daniels Lueben Lynley Davis Emma Lee Decker Chelsey Ann Desjardins Lauren Devlin Philip Diemert Megan Dietz Sasha Dixon Leland Francis Drake Meredith P. Dyer Olivia Ellis Joseph William Falconi Matthew William Farward Kelsey Floro Amanda Frank John Gardom Hannah Gensheimer Daniel Goff Deja Selena Goosby Lilia Gorban Lucia Goubert Annie Elizabeth Hague Max Patrick Haley Amanda Harris 4 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 West Virginia Wesleyan College Case Western Reserve Duquesne University CCAC West Virginia University East Carolina University Work Work Tufts University University of Michigan Mercyhurst College University of Pittsburgh Univ. of Pittsburgh Greensburg Dartmouth College Clarion University West Virginia University Case Western Reserve Pepperdine University Univ. of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Culinary Institute Columbus College of Art & Design UPMC Mercy School of Nursing Brookhaven Community College Work St. Mary’s College of Maryland CCAC CCAC University of Dayton Penn State University CCAC University of Rhode Island Rollins College Work Grove City College Slippery Rock University Travel Penn State University CCAC Bucknell University Case Western Reserve University CCAC Gannon University CUNY: Brooklyn College CCAC Drexel University University of Arizona Matthew Harris Michael Harris Joshua Hays Lain Martin Healey Andrew Henning David Hickman Katharyn Louise Holquist Caitlin MuiraHough Jordan Renee Hubbard George Jackson Raja Jasper Tyler Jeffe Christine Jehle Lindsay Marie Jones Robert Fredrik Karvinen Caitlin Elizabeth Kennedy Robert Kennedy Claire Kifer Dakkia Mecai Ala Kimbrough Kristopher King Alex Kohun Gregory Keegan Kolls Aaron Kostial Kaylee Ann Krusey Joseph Edison Lagnese Maura Lally Mikael Justin Lemieux Ryan Lesondak Abraham R. Levkoy Theodore James Maloney Cristina Georgiana Marinescu Cathryn Abigail Maurice Chelsea McCutcheon Chelsea McGowan Anna Caroline McTiernan Jeffrey Michael Mende Monica Lucia Menniti Leah Mesko Sarah Michael Ashley Marie Middendorf David Miller Mary Miller Matthew Mars Mollica Calvin Moneypenny Maximilian Georg Mross Shawn Murphy CCAC Point Park University West Virginia University Hampden-Sydney College Penn State University CCAC Allegheny College Seton Hill University University of Pittsburgh Junior Hockey Penn State Beaver Penn State University Carleton College Slippery Rock University Foreign Exchange Student Work University of South Carolina American University CCAC Continuing Education Marymount Manhattan College La Roche College Whittier College CCAC Penn State Behrend Penn State University Junior Hockey CCBC Carnegie Mellon University California Univ. of PA Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Franklin Pierce University Univ. of North Carolina Charlotte Ohio University SUNY Purchase University of Tennessee Travel/Drexel University Gannon University Continuing Education CCAC Northwestern Prep School Creighton University University of Pittsburgh Edinboro University College of Wooster Penn State Behrend www.qvsd.org Teachers have always planned their lessons, and each teacher has a thorough understanding of and rationale for his or her own units of instruction. Syllabi and grade level curriculum descriptions currently exist, but no consistent mechanism had been developed whereby busy teachers could easily access and examine their place in a child’s educational continuum… and that of their colleagues. New web-based software, called TechPaths, is now being utilized by each teacher to enter his/her content, skills and assessments as they are taught. The initial part of this task was completed for every subject at each grade level by the conclusion of the 2007-08 school year. For the coming 2008-09 school year, the school district will undertake a comprehensive analysis of what is being taught and the order and depth in which concepts are covered ~ looking for gaps and redundancies, increasing overall rigor, and creating relevancy for students based on their needs and interests. Furthermore, the written, taught, and tested curriculum will be aligned with state standards as well as to 21st Century knowledge and skills. By having the district’s entire curriculum at their fingertips, teachers will easily be able to identify what students have been taught prior to their own instruction and what is expected of students in subsequent years. For example: • An eighth grade language arts teacher works with students on the literary elements of plot, setting and characterization. By searching TechPaths for these key words, the teacher can easily determine when these terms were first introduced, how often they have been taught and in what context, making sure that the understanding of them increases in complexity. • Mapping will allow educators to examine the major projects students completed in grades 5, 8 and 10 for the necessary skill development in writing, research, organization, presentation, and reflection. • The pre-AP focus in middle school will begin as teachers analyze exactly what content and skills students will need for success in high school AP courses. Teachers will then work backwards to build activities and experiences in earlier grades to better prepare students for these challenges. • The first grade curriculum can be adjusted to account for recent changes in preschool experiences and the effects of “full-day” kindergarten. With a well organized and conveniently communicated curriculum, educators will better pinpoint curricular strengths and weaknesses by measuring student achievement and comparing it to the instructional program. The power of technology will give teachers access to all the assessment data on their students as well as a more intimate knowledge of each individual student’s curricular history. This is especially important as students make the transition between buildings. Additionally, curriculum mapping will enable high caliber retiring teachers to leave a detailed legacy of their work. By examining the maps of veterans, new teachers can get up to speed more quickly, and substitutes can provide a more seamless experience by accessing the curriculum maps. As the process of mapping continues, input will be solicited from parents and students whose perspectives are helpful in designing the best possible experiences for our students. Historically, Quaker Valley students have been highly successful because of the hard work of dedicated teachers, supportive parents and a school board and community committed to excellence. With mapping, QV students can anticipate even greater gains in their education as teachers scrutinize their collective work and revise curriculum to better meet the needs of 21st Century learners. www.qvsd.org Q.V. UPDATE 2008 9 2007-2008 HIGHLIGHTS • The Pittsburgh Business Times ranked QV 10th on its annual honor roll of 106 districts in Western Pennsylvania. • QV first graders raised a record-setting $5,657 to benefit the Children’s Institute. To date, Laps for Love has generated $28,518 for the organization. Generations Together embarks on its 15th year of working with students. To volunteer, call Polly Will: 412.749.3605. • For the fourth consecutive year, QVHS earned a spot on Newsweek’s listing of the best American high schools. Ranked 811th, the district is among the top three percent of public high schools in the United States and the highest ranking school in Western Pennsylvania. • The QVHS girls’ track team won the WPIAL Team Championship for the sixth time in the last eight years. • QV junior Jessica Johnson earned the Best Documentary award from The C.A.U.S.E. Challenge™ High School Film Festival for her film Living on the Riverfront. Megan Dietz and John Gardom pose with a member of the International Bridge Convention at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in June. Megan received a scholarship due to her involvement and participation with the ACE (Architects, Construction, and Engineers) professional organization. Megan, John and Christine Jehle received .5 internship credit for their year-long participation in ACE. • For the fourth consecutive year, QV was named one of the “Best Communities in Music Education in America” by the National Association of Music Makers. • Senior Christa Rogers earned a $5,000 WPIAL scholar athlete award. • Sophomores Emily Dando and Alexia Periera were two of only 15 players from Western Pennsylvania who were selected to compete in the U.S. Lacrosse National Tournament. • The QVHS counseling program earned the designation as a Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) from the American School Counselor Association. • Fourteen QV students earned first place honors in the annual Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competition. The senior citizen prom was a big hit with QVHS students and residents of the Masonic Village. • Edgeworth fifth graders raised $1,890 to benefit the Child Health Association of Sewickley. The funds will provide supplies to parents of premature infants at Allegheny General Hospital. • 20% of the QV Class of 2008 completed one or more courses in higher education (college level) prior to graduating high school. August 2008 “There is no difference between living and learning . . . it is impossible and misleading and harmful to think of them as being separate.” ~ John Holt Dear Residents of Quaker Valley School District: On Monday, August 25, 2008, Quaker Valley will welcome nearly 2,000 students to the start of the 2008-09 academic year. Every child can learn and it is our collective charge to ensure that each student has the opportunity to achieve his or her potential. At Quaker Valley the expectations are high. As such, I look forward to celebrating the academic, artistic and athletic accomplishments of our students and staff in the upcoming school year. Summer work has kept us very busy as we prepare for the start of the 2008-09 school year. Due to numerous retirements, nearly a dozen new full-time teachers will join the Quaker Valley family this fall. Our high school project, which will create additional space for technology and art education, is nearly complete. And, the installation of a new sound system in the high school auditorium will be finished in time for the start of the school year. Last year Quaker Valley began its strategic focus of personalizing education for our students ~ one child at a time. We understand the significance of establishing positive student relationships in order to personalize for each child. All students must be provided a caring, supportive, and safe environment. Our teachers, administrators, and support staff are fully committed to creating and maintaining quality relationships with our students. The topic of relevancy is another important facet of personalizing education for each student. I am certain that many of us can recall posing the question, “Why do I have to learn this stuff?” Questioning content relevance might be considered a rite of passage for students. However, it is essential that we do our level best to help students make the connection between classroom learning with life. These connections will enhance the growth and achievement of our students ~ one child at a time. When discussing the importance of making connections between learning with life, all of us must first fully understand today’s millennial students. As you well know, technology has become the nucleus of our students’ everyday lives ~ it is absolutely essential academically and socially. As a result, educators must work diligently to meet the ever-evolving needs of 21st century learners. Translating the ongoing technological revolution into a learning experience is a fundamental part of the relevancy challenge. It is clear that our charge is to create ongoing relevant and appropriate learning opportunities for our students that extend not only their learning but ours as well. During the coming year we will continue to focus our efforts on writing and organizing a K-12 career education curriculum. Again, creating relevancy for students will play an important role in the development of career education programming. The curriculum content of career education must include both planned and spontaneous educational experiences oriented towards adding relevancy to the student’s learning process. Our role is to expand the educational environment to include cultural, social, economic, and occupational situations based on students’ needs and interests. In short, personalized and relevant learning allows the student to understand who he or she is, what adult roles seem most desirable, and how to get “from here to there” in the most productive way. I am confident that the 2008-09 school year will be exciting and productive for our Quaker Valley students and their families as we strive to connect learning with living ~ one child at a time. Sincerely yours, • Sixty-three of our 158 recent graduates completed at least one AP course and, 23 took four or more AP courses. • Rita Hoepp and Tracey Shaffer were named semi-finalists in the Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year competition. • QV’s average SAT score ranks among the top 4% of the 641 public high schools in the commonwealth. 10 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 www.qvsd.org Joseph H. Clapper, D.Ed. Superintendent www.qvsd.org Q.V. UPDATE 2008 3 SCHOOL BOARD Jack Norris, President Marianne Wagner, Vice President Mark Scioscia, Treasurer Gianni Floro Sarah Heres Dr. Florence Iwler David Pusateri Robert Riker Dr. Kausalai Wijekumar ADMINISTRATION Joseph H. Clapper, D.Ed. Superintendent 412.749.3617 Heidi Ondek, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent 412.749.3616 Deborah Deakin, Ed.D. Director of Professional Services 412.749.3620 John Sheline Director of Financial Services 412.749.3619 Sally A. Hoover, Ph.D. Director of Pupil Services 412.749.3618 Joseph A. Marrone, Ph.D. Director of Administrative Services 412.749.3604 Andrew Surloff Principal, Quaker Valley High School 412.749.6012 Susan Gentile Assistant Principal, Quaker Valley High School 412.749.6021 Sean Aiken Principal, Quaker Valley Middle School 412.749.5079 Caroline Johns Assistant Principal, Quaker Valley Middle School 412.749.5077 Amy Kern, Ed.D. Principal, Edgeworth Elementary School 412.749.3605 Barabara Mellett Principal, Osborne Elementary School 412.749.4003 The Quaker Valley School District continues its policy of non-discrimination on the basis of race, age, sex, religion, color, national origin or handicap, as applicable in it educational programs, activities or employment policies as required by Title I of the 1972 Educational Amendments, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Section 504 Regulations of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. For more information, contact the District Office, 203 Graham Street, Sewickley, PA 15143, 412-749-3600. 2 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 Profile: Karlton H Chapman, Director of Technology Karlton Chapman, Director of Technology, has been with Quaker Valley School District since 1995. Behind his quiet, conscientious, unassuming approach is a humble professional who sees the “big picture” and works tirelessly to make sure technology is functioning well for students, teachers, administrators, staff and parents. Chapman understands the vital role of technology in teaching and learning as well as adminsitration. GOLD CLUB MEMBERSHIPS for SENIOR CITIZENS All members of the Gold Card Club are entitled to free general admission to any Quaker Valley School District home athletic event (excluding PIAA playoffs,) selected plays and musical productions, certain adult education classes offered by the district, and to identified district programs. Specifically for district operated athletic events, the card itself will serve as a general admission pass. For certain identified non-athletic events, Gold Card Club members may receive discounts on the cost of the ticket. Events sponsored by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association are not included in the Gold Card program. Conditions of Membership Chapman’s educational background includes a BA from Brown University and a Masters in Business Administration and Masters of Science in Information Science from the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to working at Quaker Valley, he worked for WPGH-TV, Control Data Corporation, Information Management Resources, Apple Computer, Inc. and Intermediate Unit 1. Chapman is an adjunct professor at Duquesne University, where he teaches Instructional Design in the Graduate School of Education. Chapman learned about the importance of collaboration from his childhood experiences at the Irene Kauffmann Center, a community based organization that provided after-school and summer activities. While in high school, he was the Youth Director of Urban Youth Action, a community based support organization that provided various social and educational services. From those early experiences Chapman learned first hand that collaboration and teamwork are vital components in the successful completion of important projects. 1. Applicant must be 62 years of age and a resident of the Quaker Valley School District. 2. Seat availability may be limited for popular events. It is recommended that where seating capacity may be limited, tickets be secured by presenting the Gold Card to the school office at least ten days prior to the performance date. Gold Club Cards are available in the athletic office of the Quaker Valley High School. Quaker Valley sports fans can purchase a $50.00 season pass for entry to all regular Quaker Valley “home” games for football, girls and boys soccer, as well as girls and boys basketball. In addition, season pass holders are entitled to a parking pass for all home Chapman’s first career put him “behind the scenes” in television production where he worked on set design, construction, audio, sound and other special projects at WPGH-TV. While at Channel 53, he had the opportunity to work with computers and video editing equipment, which sparked his interest and enthusiasm for the information management industry. This led to his pursuit of an MBA with a concentration in information science management, and later, his Masters of Science degree. While at Apple Computer, Inc., Chapman was the Regional Advisory Systems Engineer. His interaction with school clients became the impetus for his interest in the technological needs of schools. He realized he could make more of a difference implementing and supporting technology on a day-to-day basis in an educational setting rather than in a sales environment. Chapman explains that, “I enjoy making a difference in a school district where the foundation of students’ academic development is established and students are identifying their interests to pursue later.” A proud Pittsburgh native, Chapman is concerned with the future of youth and understands the importance of providing reliable technologies to facilitate their success. He believes all students can achieve and attributes his personal success to the encouragement and support of his family. He is very proud of his daughter Janis and son Allen. Janis has a degree in chemical engineering, a medical degree and is currently an OB GYN specialist in Washington, D.C. His son Allen is completing a degree in mechanical engineering and has interned in aeronautical design at US Airways. Dr. Joseph Clapper, superintendent states, “Karlton is always a gentleman; he empowers everyone to achieve and treats his colleagues, every staff member, and every request as important while maintaining a clear focus on what is best for the students of Quaker Valley School District.” www.qvsd.org football games, while supplies last. Call the Quaker Valley High School Athletic Office, 412-749-6001 for further information. 2008-2009 QV Sports Ticket Prices Ticket prices for the Quaker Valley High School athletic events remain the same as last season. Football Girls and Boys Basketball Girls and Boys Soccer Adult $5 $4 $4 Student $3 $2 $2 FOR TEAM SCHEDULES: www.qvsd.org www.qvsd.org Starting and Dismissal Times Elementary Kindergarten Middle School High School Starting 8:40 a.m. 8:40 a.m. 7:45 a.m. 7:45 a.m. Dismissal 3:30 p.m 2:00 p.m. 2:50 p.m. 2:50 p.m. QVSD Enrollment* Edgeworth Osborne Middle School High School 426 390 478 617 TOTAL 1911 *As of July 30, 2008 IPM Registration Quaker Valley School District uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents and weeds. To make a request for advanced notice of specific applications, please submit your request to Mrs. McCombe in writing by email to [email protected] or by mail to the following address: IPM Registration Ms. Barbara McCombe Quaker Valley School District 203 Graham Street Sewickley, PA 15143 Recycling Deposit any of the following paper goods in the green and yellow ABITIBI Paper Retriever bins located at any QV school: Catalogs, magazines, newspapers, junk mail, envelopes, fax and copy paper, colored paper, folders. Q.V. UPDATE 2008 11 Q.V. Update Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE Quaker Valley School District 203 Graham Street Sewickley, PA 15143 PAID Sewickley, PA 15143 Permit Number 19 Back-to-School Edition This issue of Q.V. Update is designed to provide students and parents with important information about the district and our schools for the 2008-2009 school year. Q.V. UPDATE Back-to-School Edition 2008 A Publication of the Quaker Valley School District High School Construction Increases Classroom Space for Art and Technology Education Several renovation projects are underway at Quaker Valley High School to better meet the needs of its 21st century learners. Construction is expected to be complete by the start of school on Aug. 25, 2008. ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON All information is up-to-date at the time of printing. Please view the Quaker Valley School District website (www.qvsd.org) for additional information. “These capital projects are important to meeting the needs of today’s learners,” Superintendent Joseph Clapper, D.Ed. said. “Additional curricular needs, combined with increased enrollment, necessitated additional space for the technology education and art programs.” Art Room The new auditorium sound system will support numerous drama productions, concerts, assembly programs, and other special events that are routinely conducted at Quaker Valley High School. Art Storage JERRY VESHIO: COACHING SUCCESS Jerry Veshio, 30-year Quaker Valley veteran, has been head track coach for the past 11 seasons. The success of both boys and girls track is evident in the numerous banners displayed in the QVHS gymnasium. Combining section, WPIAL and state victories, the track teams have earned 46 titles since 1981. Veshio attributes the teams’ successes not only to individual athletes but also to the uniqueness of the track program. Track, unlike other sports, offers the flexibility for more athletes to compete while maintaining their studies and participating in other activities. Team members can practice independently; if someone misses a day, it does not impact the success of the practice or team morale the way that it might in another sport like football. “In addition, I can enter ten people in one event if I want to; I am not limited to the number of people playing at one time like basketball or how many lanes are available as in swimming,” Veshio explained. Veshio credits learning the importance of flexibility from Ken Johns, who was Veshio’s coach in high school and later head coach when Veshio became an assistant. “I have been blessed to have worked with some of the very best coaches and assistant coaches during my tenure at Quaker Valley,” commented Coach Veshio. While expressing his pride in the program, Veshio recognizes that winning is not the “end all be all.” He fondly remembers working with a student athlete who was challenged academically, socially, and athletically, yet made significant improvement in his social and athletic skills throughout the season. “As a coach, it is a very different feeling to witness and facilitate that kind of success compared to watching the elite, medal-winning athlete who already had the physical and mental ability to be motivated and succeed,” Veshio explained. 12 Q.V. UPDATE 2008 New Dust Collector Former Classroom 106 New Technology Education Lab/Shop Former Tech Ed Lab/Shop New Art Studio Technology Education CAD Lab New doorway At the same time, Coach Veshio takes pride in the success of his star athletes and a very impressive team legacy. “If you look at the combination of team, section and WPIAL titles, girls track is one of Quaker Valley’s most successful sports,” Veshio states hesitantly, sensitive to the fact that as district athletic director he is proud of all QV teams. Why have Quaker Valley girls track teams won so many section titles? Veshio recognizes that winning a title is not simply based on individuals having their best performances but on a team’s winning record against competitors in the section. This interdependence fosters a lively team spirit. Veshio explains that, “Athletes understand and support the team’s success yet still have the opportunity to compete for individual honors when the team qualifies and competes at the state level.” The mix of individual effort and team pride has set Quaker Valley track apart as one of the finest programs in western Pennsylvania. www.qvsd.org Existing classroom space is being transformed into a new technology education lab, improvements are being made to the school’s art room and the auditorium is being equipped with a new, state-of-the-art sound system. “The recent improvements will greatly enhance our technology and art programs by providing adequate space and 21st century classroom equipment and materials for our students,” Andrew Surloff, high school principal, said. “Additionally, the new sound system will mirror the high quality programming and performances of our talented Quaker Valley students.” The school board and administration studied the need for the facility changes throughout the last three years. The construction plan began with a study of the program growth and course offerings in both technology education and art curriculums. CONTENTS High School Construction ........................ 1 QV Profile: Karlton Chapman ................. 2 Superintendent’s Message........................ 3 Class of 2008 Report ............................ 4,5 News From the Schools ....................... 6,7 Back to School Events ............................ 8 Curriculum Mapping ............................... 9 2007-2008 Highlights ........................... 10 Sports Ticket Information ...................... 11 Jerry Veshio: Coaching Success ............ 12 www.qvsd.org Building principals will welcome the Quaker Valley students back to school on Monday, August 25th (from left to right): Susan Gentile and Andrew Surloff, QVHS Assistant Principal and Principal; Amy Kern, Edgeworth Principal; Barbara Mellett, Osborne Principal; and Sean Aiken and Caroline Johns, QVMS Principal and Assistant Principal. Q.V. UPDATE 2008 1
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