2017 District Annual Report
The Appoquinimink School District is deeply committed to developing the potential of our youth. Inside these pages, you’ll find news about program innovation, student achievement, financial accountability and school construction. None of this would be possible without the public support of people like you!
Education Innovation
The powerful impact of career-related studies
Cutting-edge Career and Technical Education pathways prepare Appoquinimink students for a wide range of high-wage, high-skill, high-demand careers.
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o prepare young people for success in today’s rapidly-changing marketplace, it’s critical that we think beyond traditional curricula. To give our teens a competitive edge, we provide an extensive catalogue of academic courses coupled with career exposures (Pathways) that provide early college credit (AP, dual enrollment), industry certifications, and access to work-based learning and professionals. Each Pathway integrates core academics, relevant curriculum, and technical/employability skills within a career context. Classroom instruction is reinforced by hands-on learning to give our students a deeper understanding of the field and prepare them for employment or continued enrollment in postsecondary education or training. The Career and Technical Education (CTE) program provides an excellent starting point for young people to explore their passions while learning about careers in high-demand fields like computer science, engineering, and health sciences. These experiences not only motivate our students, they help them develop an understanding of the education and skills needed for success.
Unlike the vocational-technical programs of the past, CTE is not an alternative to a traditional education – it’s a complement. That’s because CTE is designed to meet a dual mission: developing students with college readiness skills and a career path. Today we believe that career-related studies are beneficial for all students! The CTE program at Appoquinimink is just one way we are committed to finding more and better ways to connect our youth to opportunity and ease the transition from the classroom to college and careers. In our annual report, we’ll look at six cutting-edge high school Pathways, share highlights from all our schools, and discuss plans to bring even greater value to students and families in the year ahead. These projects would not be possible without the support and investment of our community. Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and schools.
Matthew L. Burrows, Ed.D. Superintendent
Superintendent Burrows enjoyed the chance to
work alongside Culinary Arts students as they prepared food for an awards banquet and
got acquainted with the business end of a dairy
cow being shown by FFA
students at the State Fair
in July. Both activities are examples of the handson learning associated with CTE pathways. Pictured left:
MHS student Cameron Williams with
Superintendent Burrows. Pictured right:
Dr. Burrows with ASD’s
Teacher of the Year (and Delaware’s Agriscience Teacher of the Year) Cheryl Vest.
Appoquinimink’s 2017-18 Career Pathways School of Agriculture and Natural Resources • Animal Sciences • Natural Resources & Environmental Education
An Appoquinimink education develops: n0 Critical thinking n0 Creativity & innovation n0 Communication n0 Collaboration & teamwork n0 Hands-on learning
School of Business and Economics • NAF Academy of Finance School of Education and Human Studies • Early Childhood Education • K-12 Teacher Academy School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality • Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management School of Health Sciences • Allied Health • Sports Medicine and Management
School of Language, Literature and Human Development • Digital Communications • English Language Arts • Humanities • Literature & Creative Writing • World & Human Studies • World Language and International Studies School of Military and Civic Leadership • Life-centered Career Education • Jobs for Delaware Graduates • Junior Reserve Officer Training • Political Science and Legal Issues
School of Performing and Designing Arts • Graphic Design • Music • Theatre Arts • Visual Arts School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math • Computer Science (PLTW) • Engineering (PLTW) • Forensics • Mathematics • Science
Pathways n0
Educate students for a range of career options
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Integrate academics in a sequenced, relevant curriculum
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Provide technical and jobspecific skills and knowledge for employment in the field
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Feature high school and postsecondary partnerships to establish a smooth progression to certifications and degrees
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Partnering institutions offering dual-enrollment for our Pathways include: Delaware State University, Delaware Technical and Community College, West Virginia University, Wesley College and Wilmington University
Middletown student Taylor Trent seen here at the
State Fair grooming Grandslamin Defiant Kenna, the offspring of a championship dairy cow.
“Helping students learn about high-demand jobs, and explore the specialized skills they require, not only increases young people’s engagement during high school, it improves their chance of success after graduation.” – Dr. Matt Burrows www.apposchooldistrict.com I 1
Building for the future
New school designs move forward In December 2016, our community approved a referendum to build three new schools, one at each grade level: elementary, middle and high school.
The first building scheduled for completion is a 720-student elementary school located in the community of Whitehall.* When it opens in Fall 2019, the school will play a critical role in relieving overcrowded conditions across the grade 1-5 spectrum. In 2020, we’ll open a new 950-student middle school and 1,570-student high school on the Fairview Campus.* The two schools will maintain independent entrances, bus and parent drop-off areas, classrooms, administrative areas, gymnasiums, cafeterias, and support services; but they will connect to share an innovative performing arts center, library media center and kitchen.
Considerations you’ll see reflected in all three designs: l l l l l l
Room to move about and experience hands-on learning Tech-friendly learning hubs “Maker space” where students can collaborate Natural lighting, inviting spaces and multi-use, mobile seating options Vertical wall space with write-on, wipe off surfaces Space to transition in and out of small group work and other teaching practices
Join us for a construction update
We know that the physical design of our classrooms and facilities will have a major impact on teachers’ ability to engage students. So our staff team has been focused on developing flexible learning spaces where imagination can take flight.
In January, we’ll begin delivering construction updates to the more than 50 staff, parent, business and community groups who hosted referendum meetings. We’ll share detailed plans of our new schools, discuss the features and benefits of each project, review the construction timeline, answer questions, and explain how you can follow our progress. A schedule of upcoming presentations will be posted on the district website after the holidays.
* Instructional capacity
Architectural rendering of the new 720-student Lorewood Grove Elementary
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School located in the community of Whitehall.
The new 1,570-student Odessa High School
School feeder pattern meetings
Whenever new schools open, the district feeder pattern changes. A volunteer committee (parents, Board and staff) began meeting last year to develop a proposal for the new attendance zones. They’ll be presenting their plan at a series of public meetings scheduled for November of this year. We encourage you to attend and provide your feedback. Our goal is to finalize the plan in early 2018. This will allow us ample time to communicate the changes to parents and the public. November 6 November 9 November 13
Middletown High School Townsend Elementary School Cedar Lane Elementary School
6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
will open on the Fairview Campus in Fall 2020.
Cantwell’s Bridge Middle School will open in Fall
2020. The school will serve students in grades 6-8.
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Early Childhood Centers
HIGHLIGHTS:
Cedar Lane ECC
Spring Meadow ECC
n Parent involvement is critical in
n Last December, Spring Meadow
kindergarten. One of the first activities we shared together was the Fall Festival. Families enjoyed pumpkin painting, games and a basket raffle. More than 300 visitors filled our building to capacity. Later in the year, we introduced Curriculum Nights – one for reading and another for STEM, providing tips and resources parents could use at home to help their young learner excel in academics.
students participated in the Reindeer Run. Thanks to generous support from families and friends, the event raised over $8,000 – money that enabled the PTO to purchase iPads for the classroom.
n In November, girls enjoyed the
Father/Daughter Dance. In January, a similar event was held for boys & their mothers. It was a special night of memories. The children dressed up, had their pictures taken, danced to a DJ, and enjoyed a meal donated by a local restaurant. n In May, students took part in
A.C.E.S Day (All Children Exercise Simultaneously) to underscore the importance of health and wellness. Our five-year olds enjoyed a variety of fitness activities including karate, Jazzercise, relay races, and many sports. Teens from Middletown High directed many of these activities and were a tremendous support to staff. n Throughout the year, we gave
back to the community in ways that our children could relate to, like a drive for pajamas and toothbrushes, items that support the Delaware Foster Care system. We also raised money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Relay for Life. We’re very proud that our students learn early to look out for others.
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n Spring Meadow teachers
worked with the community to develop a building-wide STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art & math) event. The District’s Robotics team wowed us with their creations. We learned how to make blueprints and created a set for our classroom. We honed our engineering skills by building a marshmallow structure for the three pigs that even the big bad wolf couldn’t destroy! In math, we practiced counting feathers and categorizing them by color. Last but not least, we created 3-D art pieces using nuts, bolts, paint and magnets! n Tapping into our parent
resources, SMECC hosted a “Community Helps” Day. Students met a variety of local resources including a baker, firefighters, and police officers who talked about what they do, answered questions about their work, and discussed how we work together to support one another.
Townsend ECC n We continued the summer
tradition of making a home visit to welcome our new students and their families. Staff, including our teachers, administrators, counselors and para-professionals
were involved in these visits. No matter what team member you met, we made it a point to share a welcome packet and spend time getting to know you and your kindergartener. n We were proud to graduate 120
students from our Spanish Immersion Kindergarten Program. After spending half their day in English and the other half in Spanish, these students are already showing a strong command of both languages and performing at or above their peers academically. n Townsend takes full advantage
of the fact that we are a community-based school. In the spring, our kindergartners had an opportunity to visit the businesses that anchor historic Main Street. There were stops at the Fire Station, Little Italy Restaurant, the Post Office, and Town Hall – where our students were met by Mayor Rudy Sutton and Councilwoman Cindy Cook. At each stop, they learned a little bit about that business, made new friends, and had an opportunity to ask the adults about their jobs.
Education Spotlight
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Allied Health Pathway
his program introduces students to opportunities in the healthcare industry. Participants study medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology. They acquire a basic knowledge of medical mathematics, body mechanics, CPR and first aid, safety practices, legal responsibilities, and technical skills related to patient bedside care. State and national
HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) membership provides the chance to apply the information and skills learned through community service and community education. Potential careers include: nurse; physician; pharmacist; dentist; physical, respiratory or occupational therapist; surgical, medical or x-ray technician, to name a few.
Pathway Courses
Human Growth and Development n0 Fundamentals of Health Science n0 Essentials of Health Careers n0 Anatomy and Physiology n0 Allied Health Practicum n0
Work-based Learning
Supervised clinical experiences Summer volunteer program n0 Health fairs n0 Job shadowing opportunities n0 Paid co-ops n0 n0
Allied Health at Appoquinimink High Top left: Jose Hilario, Samantha George
Top right: Melissa Pongnon Bottom: Teacher Corey White
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Education Spotlight
Pathway Courses
Graphic Design and Production Pathway
Foundations of Art Graphic Design & Production I n0 Graphic Design & Production II n0 Graphic Design & Production III n0 n0
Work-based Learning
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his pathway exposes students to the world of design through analysis, foundational teachings, and software application. Level I focuses on the skills necessary to create a high quality design and uses mainly hands-on design assignments to practice those skills.
Supervised design projects for internal and external clients n0 Job shadowing opportunities n0 Volunteer co-op work n0 Student art exhibits and shows n0
Graphic Design & Production at Appoquinimink High
Top left: Olivia Bedard, Teacher Elise Knable
Top right: Malachi Duff Bottom: Brendan Massey, Teacher Elise Knable
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Levels II and III utilize cutting-edge software programs to allow students to apply their knowledge of design in the digital world. Level III focuses on working with real-world clients and producing a high quality portfolio by the end of the semester.
Bunker Hill
n In honor
of “I Love To Read” month, Bunker Hill introduced the Minute-to-Win-It Challenge. Students who showed top growth and achievement in reading and comprehension activities were able to compete with teachers and school administrators in minuteto-win-it games enjoyed by all. n Bunker Hill’s Mission Space
event continued to grow, with a total of seven schools participating this year. Guests had a chance to handle moon rocks, climb into a space suit, observe stars in a planetarium, gaze at the night sky through high-powered telescopes, and build & launch model rockets.
n Staff and students began an
exciting shift in the instructional focus at Brick Mill Elementary through inquiry-based learning. Teachers worked together to align standards and content with unique student learning opportunities. The inquiry process allowed opportunities for student collaboration, creativity, critical thinking and communication. Through an increase in technology & personalized learning experiences, students were able to demonstrate the ASD District Beats while tapping into individual interests.
Elementary
craze, Bunker Hill created a thrilling new event called Breakout Day, a school-wide activity that challenged students to collaborate with one another as they hunted for clues and solved puzzles that unlocked the answer to a quest. The project was the culminating activity for an inquiry-based approach to learning called TACS (Taking Risks, Asking Questions, Collaborating, & Sharing Ideas) that our Bulldogs have been working on all year.
Brick Mill
n Brick Mill became
n Representatives from the New
Castle County Police Department and AAA Mid-Atlantic joined our fourth graders for a presentation about the AAA Safety Patrol. Our guests introduced students to the program, discussed the importance of the job, the qualities required to be a leader, and how to turn those qualities into a career. We hope to continue this relationship and grow our BHE Safety Patrol!
HIGHLIGHTS:
n Inspired by the escape room
Aerospace Engineer Breanne Sutton, lead analyst on the Orion Launch Abort System Altitude Control Motor, delivered the keynote address and the crowd enjoyed demonstrations by the University of West Virginia Robotics Team.
the first school in Delaware to earn Phase IV Recognition for its Positive Behavior Support program. Our staff demonstrated outstanding commitment by donating more than 1,000 hours to school-based mentoring. Thanks to a multifaceted approach that also involves community and peer-mentoring programs; more than half of our school population is involved in mentor-mentee relationships. Fifth Graders at Olive B. Loss Elementary Pictured left to right:
Hannah Bacon, Tyler Turner, Noah Vari
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Elementary
HIGHLIGHTS:
n Brick Mill hosted the first annu-
n Our creative staff team
n STEM is the future at OBL! One
al Dolphin Dash 5K. Through the collective efforts of our PTO, community partnerships and school staff, we welcomed 100+ runners, joggers and walkers ranging in age from two to 65. It was an exciting way to strengthen our relationships with families and the community while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. We look forward to building on our success next year.
introduced Pop-up Dance Parties to celebrate student achievement, good behavior and leadership in action. The unscheduled celebrations featured a mobile karaoke machine and disco ball that brought interactive entertainment, released stress, promoted reading and language skills, and reminded children that learning is fun.
of the important ways we inform and involve parents is by hosting hands-on events where mom, dad and the entire family can experience the design and discovery process together. In March, we presented our 2nd annual Family STEM Night. Engineering students from the University of Delaware joined us to facilitate an activity called the Diaper Dissection, giving participants a chance to understand how polymers work to absorb liquids. Teacher-designed activities included: Stomp Rockets at the science station, Coding in our computer lab, Math About Me, the Family Pipe Cleaner Challenge, a Wonder Wall for students to develop questions relating to scientific pictures, an Odyssey of the Mind Display, and a green screen where student pictures could be taken “on the moon!” As we continue our efforts to incorporate engineering, science, and math activities into our curriculum we’re excited for future events and activities!
Cedar Lane n Cedar Lane enjoyed its first full
year with a sensory room. This therapeutic space helps students de-escalate when experiencing emotional, physical or cognitive challenges. It features sound boards, fiber optics, ball pits, a fish tank, mural, bungee chairs, and ball seats – equipment chosen to address a mix of visual, hearing, tactile, emotional and physical issues. Funded with a grant from the Special Education office, the room was outfitted as an Eagle Scout project by an ASD student. n In the fall, a grant allowed us to
begin experimenting with flexible seating options. Whether sitting on the floor, a ball chair, floor pillow, traditional chair, or simply standing by a desk; students were allowed to responsibly choose where they worked each day, and what environment best-supported their learning style. The experiment paid off. Classroom engagement soared and distracting behaviors were almost eliminated. By the end of the year, 13 classrooms had adopted flexible seating.
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n Hundreds of children, families,
staff and alumni joined us at a Memory Walk for Teacher Laura Grass, who died unexpectedly in 2017. Thanks to their generous donations, we were able to establish scholarships for deserving students who wished to attend enrichment camps in math and music (two of Laura’s passions) over the summer.
Olive B. Loss n After another stellar year of
standardized test scores, the Delaware Department of Education invited Olive B. Loss Elementary to apply for National Blue Ribbon status. Only seven elementary schools in Delaware have achieved this distinction since 1982. Principal Lorraine Lybarger and the school’s leadership team filed their paperwork in May, and in September, U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos announced that OBL was one of only 342 educational institutions (public, private, charter) from across the nation to be selected. A formal recognition ceremony will take place in Washington, D.C. later this fall.
n Loss Elementary’s founding
principal, Lorraine Lybarger, announced her decision to retire at the conclusion of the 2016-17 school year. After leading students and staff for more than a decade, and amassing one of the top academic records in the state, it is a loss that will be deeply felt by all. Students and staff delivered moving tributes at a school-wide celebration in June, and a beautiful bench was dedicated in Mrs. Lybarger’s name. It’s located alongside The Owl’s Nest, the school’s free outdoor book exchange located on the OBL bus circle.
n Old State was honored to host
Loss worked together to create a life-sized, mixed-media sculpture called The Eagle to celebrate the soaring power of the imagination. Each feather was designed by a different student and represented that child’s unique vision. The individual feathers were then combined to form wings, sending a bold message about the confidence and creativity of our children. Funding for the project was provided by a grant from the Biggs Museum’s Junior Docent Program. The design was inspired by the carved wooden eagles that are a part of the Museum’s permanent collection.
Old State has formed a chapter of the nation’s newest student recognition program, the National Elementary Honor Society! NEHS provides a way to recognize 4th and 5th grade students who combine outstanding academic achievement with demonstrated personal responsibility and leadership.
our 4th annual Leadership Day. As a Leader in Me school, it is imperative that our school culture reflects student empowerment. Our Leadership Day was planned and executed by OSE students. Their involvement included serving as greeters, tour guides, speechwriters, presenters, entertainers and panelists. Keynote speaker John Busby, Director of Media Relations and Program Innovations for Special Olympics Delaware, provided our guests with a memorable speech about the importance of treating everyone whose path we cross with kindness.
Old State n 60 talented
students, and eight enthusiastic members of the Old State staff team put on an incredible production of The Wizard of Oz, Jr. for our friends, family and community members. After many months of rehearsals, and countless weekends dedicated to prop design, the show went off without a hitch! Students were a part of every aspect of the production: from set design to lighting, costumes, staging and promotion. We even had our very own student director!
Silver Lake n Hundreds of
NEHS follows the same rigorous expectations as the National Junior Honor Society and the National Honor Society. Students must meet a national criteria that includes not only good grades, but documented service to the school and community. Our inaugural class, in January 2017, included 44 students.
HIGHLIGHTS:
n We are proud to announce that
Elementary
n The third graders at Olive B.
children and families from Silver Lake prepared a special tribute for the 25th anniversary of the Wreaths Across America program. Second Graders at Olive B. Loss Elementary Pictured left to right:
Teacher Erin McCullin, students Tia Selim, Avery Frieze and Paige Rubin
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Elementary
HIGHLIGHTS:
Our students lined Catherine Street in Middletown on a frigid December day to greet a caravan of 18-wheelers and escort vehicles bringing balsam wreaths to be laid at the graves of the fallen soldiers buried at Arlington National Ceremony. Flag-waving students welcomed the volunteers before ushering them inside for hot cocoa, cookies and a tribute program. Every student in the school was involved, from planning to speaking, the welcome and goodbye, and handing out goody bags to volunteers.
n Silver Lake Librarian Jodie
n The Student Lighthouse Team at
Townsend
Silver Lake, a Leader In Me school, challenged their peers to help raise $1,500. Children devised a spirited week of fundraisers: Sunglasses Day, High School & College Day, Pajamas Day, Twin Day, Team/ Organization Day, Leadership T-shirt Day. The highlight was Red Nose Day, a new partnership with Walgreens to raise awareness about childhood poverty. n Fifth Grade teacher Amy
Lawson was named the VFW’s State Teacher of the Year in recognition of her efforts to bring insight into the rich history, traditions and role of our veterans in creating and shaping America. State Commander Sharon Leslie made the awards presentation (a crystal apple, certificate, and small cash award) during a ceremony in Lawson’s classroom.
Kline, founder of the District’s summer mobile library program, was the subject of a feature story in The News Journal. This year, the program celebrated more than a decade of service to families and enjoyed a record-number of participants. The first day alone, more than 600 families came out to select books. We’d like to recognize all our librarians, and the many other volunteers who donate their time and talent to ride from stop to stop and assist children in the selection of their free books.
n Through Project-Based
Learning, the fourth graders at Townsend Elementary were the first class and school in Delaware to receive funding for a K-12 Environmental Education grant from the Chesapeake Bay Trust! The grant enabled us to take students to Chestertown, MD where they set sail down the Chester River on a replica of a Colonial-era schooner called the Sultana. On board the ship, children learned what life was like at sea in the 1700’s. They took to the helm (steering wheel), learned how to raise the sails, and explored how mariners charted their course using period instruments. A shipboard science lesson included the chance to sample marine life, examine plankton under microscopes & conduct tests to examine water quality.
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Later that day, they toured the Sultana’s education center where they learned about the Chesapeake Bay watershed and how Townsend citizens play a part in maintaining its health and vitality. After returning to school, students labeled the storm drains in Townsend with signs reading, “Bay Drainage, Don’t Dump.” We hope this unique opportunity inspires our students to educate others about the importance of protecting our watershed. n Townsend students were able
to participate in STEM projects throughout the year, including Project Lead the Way activities, a national program that empowers students to adopt a design-thinking mindset as they engage in handson activities in computer science, engineering and biomedical science while applying and reinforcing the knowledge and skills they’ve acquired in core academic areas. Activities in our STEM Lab included units on Light and Sound, Flight, Coding, Energy: Collision, and how to do Animated Storytelling. n Townsend Elementary hosted
its first Read for the Stars Day. The school welcomed more than 100 guest readers, including the Wilmington University Soccer Team and distinguished leaders like Delaware’s Secretary of Education Dr. Susan Bunting, Townsend Mayor Rudy Sutton, State Senator Valerie Longhurst, and State Representative Kevin Hensley.
Education Spotlight
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Engineering Pathway
n our Project Lead the Way (PLTW) engineering classes, students engage in compelling, real-world challenges that allow them to apply math, science and engineering processes to hands-on projects. They explore the varied roles engineers play in our society, and are introduced to industry-leading technology and 3-D modeling software. Working individually
and in teams, teens have the opportunity to design and test solutions to a variety of problems, apply the professional skills they’ve learned to document a design process to standards, and are empowered to develop in-demand, transportable skills like creativity, communication, critical thinking and collaboration.
Pathway Courses
Introduction to Engineering Principles of Engineering n0 Digital Electronics n0 Engineering Design and Development n0 Elective opportunities for distance learning through West Virginia University n0 n0
Work-based Learning
Industry-mentored experiences Guest speakers n0 Career panels n0 Paid internships n0 Paid co-ops n0 n0
Engineering at Appoquinimink High Top left: Chris Ellis Top right: Logan Cook,
Autumn Naudine, Shakir Archie Bottom: Nate Chalmers
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Education Spotlight
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Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management
his pathway provides an opportunity for students to explore the hospitality and culinary arts professions in a program supported by the National Restaurant Association. Classroom instruction and applied practice in the food preparation lab emphasizes fundamental terms, concepts and techniques; nutritional knowledge; safety and sanitation skills; equipment
Pathway Courses operation; menu planning; and employability lessons (leadership, creativity, time n0 Fundamentals of Culinary management, teamwork). Students learn by Arts & Hospitality doing. They maintain a cafe, cater school and n0 Advanced Food Production community events, and compete against & Hospitality Management others at industry-sponsored events. n0 The Culinary and Successful completion includes ProStart Hospitality Profession industry certification. n0 Culinary Arts Practicum Work-based Learning
Industry-mentored experiences n0 Supervised catering & event management opportunitiues n0 Industry-sponsored competitions n0 Membership in FCCLA, a national student organization providing leadership skills, community service, and career opportunities n0
Culinary Arts at Middletown High Top left: Matthew Coyle Top right: Gianni Johnson,
Shayna Overton, Jamir Bryant Bottom: Jessica Grant
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Alfred G. Waters
n Waters sent
two strong teams to Delaware’s Science Olympiad. Team #35 finished in the Top 10 in the Middle School Division. Meanwhile, students from both teams individually earned top ten scores in 11 different event categories: Crime Busters, Experimental Design, Disease Detectives, Hovercraft, Dynamic Planet, Bottle Rocket, Microbe Mission, Towers, Wright Stuff, Food Science and Scrambler. n Eighth graders Maya Kannan
and Sahkee Desai represented Waters Middle at the Business Professionals of America National
n AGW presented the musical,
Hairspray, Jr. in April. There were a number of “firsts” in this year’s production. The cast and crew included 69 current students and nearly a dozen alumni who returned to work behind the scenes on sound, costumes, hair and makeup. Our Drama Club partnered with the Bully Busters at school to deliver a message about standing up for each other that included a rousing rendition of
n Our FFA students earned 15
different top 10 awards in competitions this year, everything from a classroom essay contest and prepared speaking to food science, dairy cattle evaluation, floriculture, and horse evaluation. Between competitions and fairs, they found time to launch an entrepreneurial effort called the Happy Gram Fundraiser. For $1.00, students could buy a Happy Gram (consisting of a positive message and flower) to be delivered in school to other students and staff. The idea provided agriculture classes with an opportunity to learn how to prepare and sustain live flowers, fill orders, and design marketing materials. The teens filled a total of 600 orders between Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, later repackaging the idea as a way to support the cast and crew of our spring musical.
Middle School
from AGW experienced great success with an international challenge called, “Ready, Set, Balsa, Build” becoming the first students from our school to advance on to the World Finals in this category. The competition required students to create a structure capable of supporting as much weight as possible using only balsa wood and white glue. The team took 3rd place in regional competition, before coming back to take 2nd place at the state level. As a result, they qualified to attend the World Finals in Michigan in late May.
“Run and Tell That,” a hit song from the show. And the cast performed its final dress rehearsal for the fifth graders at Cedar Lane Elementary.
HIGHLIGHTS:
n An Odyssey of the Mind team
Leadership Conference in Orlando. The two were selected from among thousands to serve as National Officer for a Day. In addition, Maya placed 5th in the nation in extemporaneous speaking and Sakhee placed 2nd in the nation in a competition called entrepreneur exploration.
Culinary Arts at Middletown High Pictured: Student Tamia Smith works
in the Food Lab with visiting professional
Chef David Nolker from Delaware Technical and Community College
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n A team of Meredith Middle
Middle School
HIGHLIGHTS:
Everett Meredith School students designed an experiment which was accepted for testing on the International Space Station. Team member Moulai Nije traveled to the Kennedy Space Center to present the experiment and observe the launch. Their teacher, Meredith Swartzendruber, was selected to lead over 100 educators in STEM professional development at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center this summer. We hope the experience inspires all our students to reach for the stars! n One of our school-wide goals
is to involve more young people in after-school activities. Research shows that taking part in these programs benefits children both socially and academically, with the added benefit of creating a greater sense of community. We’re pleased that our focus is paying off. More than half the student body participated in at least one afterschool activity in 2016-17. In fact, student interest in the Strategic Games Club (100+ members) was so high that the group now meets on different days, scheduled by grade level. n The National Junior Honor
Society celebrated a milestone with 51 inductees (our largest class ever) this year! Service to school and community is one of the requirements of membership. The group raised funds for half-a-dozen nonprofit organizations including St. Jude’s, the Missing Children’s Foundation, and United Way.
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n Eleven Meredith students were
selected for All-State Music events this year. Another 15 were part of the District Honor Band, and our music students had their first-ever opportunity to travel to NYC to attend a performance of the Tonyaward winning play, Phantom of the Opera. n Our BPA (Business Professionals
of America) program took home the Membership Campaign Award recognizing one of the largest increases in participation in the state. Four of our students earned Top 10 placements in their competition categories this year.
Louis L. Redding n Science teachers Michael Oberly
and Dr. Robert Ferrell have been named one of 100 finalists in VOYA Financial’s Unsung Heroes contest. They will be receiving a $2,000 classroom grant and are now eligible to win additional support (up to $25,000) if selected as one of three nationwide winners. The award celebrates Oberly and Ferrell’s innovative lesson the Stratosphere Project, which focuses on implementing a meteorology-based engineering project where students launch a weather balloon into the stratosphere, take data and retrieve it. High Altitude Ballooning (HAB) offers students a unique and exciting way to experience engineering. Through this assignment, they learn how to utilize GPS tracking, design and insulate hardware for the flight, measure precise weights, and calculate flight paths.
Equally important, the project provides student groups with creative, collaborative, problem-solving and leadership opportunities that teach them how to embrace teamwork and communication among themselves, as well as with the larger community. n Project Lead the Way lessons are
helping Redding students focus on innovative solutions to global challenges through science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Colleen Leithren, U.S. Program Director for the non-profit foundation Water is Life Kenya, visited with students to discuss how practical water management solutions are needed to provide clean, reliable drinking water supplies to people and livestock in drought-plagued areas. She discussed the work her organization is doing to bring change and showed students the very real impact of science in our lives. n Redding teacher Wendy Wallace
was named Delaware’s Art Teacher of the Year at a special ceremony in Dover this spring. n Our VEX Robotics Team placed
fifth overall in middle school division competition. We launched a Girls Who Code after-school program, and two of our agriscience teams placed first in statewide FFA competitions. n Language instruction reflects
our commitment to developing global citizens. Enrollment in advanced-level Spanish and French classes saw a big uptick this year, and requests for 7th Grade French are at an all-time high.
Education Spotlight
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Computer Science
n our Project Lead the Way (PLTW) classes, students explore the computational skills and understanding needed to pursue a career in computer science. Instruction begins with an introduction to the foundations of computer science: programming languages, networking, operating systems, databases and basic programming, with an emphasis on helping students develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. As know-how increases, students move on to open-ended challenges such as
algorithm development and programming projects relevant to their everyday lives. They also explore the impact computing and technology have on our society: computer security, safety, ethics, privacy, communications and interface design. Students learn to develop and publish multimedia products and exercise their imagination, management and originality skills daily, applying these concepts to creative projects that build their portfolio.
Pathway Courses
Computer Science Essentials AP Computer Science Principles n0 AP Computer Science A n0 Cybersecurity n0 n0
Work-based Learning
Industry-mentored experiences Guest speakers n0 Industry-sponsored competitions n0 Internships n0 n0
Computer Science at Middletown High Top left: Ajana Nandagopal Top right: Justin Greene, Matthew Wichert
Bottom: Justin Chan
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Education Spotlight
T
Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences
his pathway provides students with a hands-on, scientific education that prepares students to address key environmental issues. Study combines professional competency in management skills with a strong foundation in the social and biophysical sciences: soils, water, vegetation, wildlife, recreation. Instruction provides students with the scientific principles and methods required to understand the
interrelationships of the natural world, identify and analyze environmental problems, evaluate risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions. Co-curricular involvement in our award-winning FFA program promotes career exploration through group activities, individual projects, and competitions (local, regional and national).
Pathway Highlights
Natural Resources/ Environmental Science I-IV n0 Delaware State Fair n0
Work-based Learning
Internships Externships n0 Job Shadowing with natural resource-based organizations in the business, public and non-profit sectors n0 n0
Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at Middletown High Top left: (greenhouse)
Rachel Loughry, Haley Kirk Top right: (agronomic pest collection) Ahmod Westbrook
Bottom: (forest surveying) left to right: Hannah Harmon, Margaret Babiarz,
Teacher Jeff Billings, Bryan Alberding
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incredible year. More than 30 were signed by colleges and universities to play sports. For the first time in school history, all of our spring teams made it to the post-season. One of our baseball players was named Gatorade Player of the Year and DIAA Baseball Player of the Year (Ryan Steckline) and our Softball Coach was named DIAA Softball Coach of the Year (Brian Timpson). Finally, we had a Track and Field State Champion (Vail Freed), and the top male golfer in Delaware (Matt Pulgini). n Highlights from our co-
curricular programs included: 1) 1st and 2nd place in the District STEM Fair, 2) National conference appearances for members of DECA, BPA, FFA and HOSA, 3) Top 3 finishers in the State of Delaware High School Math League Competition. Our HOSA organization competed for the first time and won multiple awards at the state-level, with students qualifying for nationals. n Appoquinimink High School
launched a VEX Robotics Team. Coached by Engineering Pathway Teacher John Lunsford, the team quickly met with success using remote-controlled robots they designed, built and programmed to complete complex tasks in a competitive atmosphere. After earning first place finishes at several qualifying events, they went on to earn the title of State Champions in Delaware’s High School Division.
n On March 17, our twelfth
graders presented their Senior Projects. Those who represented outstanding creativity, effort and scholarship (a total of thirty-three students) were invited back to interview for the chance to win a “WOW” Scholarship. Our winner was Kia Ward. Kia researched the importance of free and reduced lunch in schools, recruited a corporate sponsor (Discover Credit Card), and with help from a local elementary school organized a holiday meal and gift exchange for more than 400 deserving children and adults. The event was so well received that plans are underway to bring the program back again this year. n The Class of 2017 earned over
$13 million in scholarship awards. Seniors are attending 65 different colleges and universities this Fall including West Point and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. n More than 100 students were
involved in a theatrical production this year, a new record. Eighteen students earned an invitation to perform in an All-State Music Event: Choir–12, Band–3 and Orchestra–3. We had one student selected for the prestigious, All-Eastern Choir and another chosen for All-National Orchestra.
n In May, Governor Carney
visited our Career and Technology Education classes. He met with Graphic Design, Animal Science and Engineering students to talk about their work-based learning experiences and where they plan to head after high school. n Our AP Spanish students
volunteered in the Spanish Immersion program that launched at Silver Lake Elementary this year. First, our teens were interviewed by the elementary students in Spanish, then they helped the younger children with class activities and homework. It was a fabulous collaboration with students from both schools benefitting greatly. n This spring, seven AHS students
enjoyed a visit to our sister school, La Tour des Dames, located just outside of Paris. They stayed with local families, which gave them an opportunity to practice their French in an authentic setting. Students enjoyed visits to the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and other cultural icons. There were day trips to Versailles, Provins, and even a French amusement park, Parc Astérix.
Middletown n MHS was named one of
Delaware’s top schools by U.S. News and World Reports in 2017. n The Class of 2017 earned over
$5 million dollars in scholarship awards. Graduates are attending 70 different colleges and universities this Fall, including The United States Air Force Academy, Cornell and NYU.
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High School
n Our student athletes had an
In April, the team travelled to the 2017 World Championship in Louisville, KY to participate in the largest robotics competition in the world.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Appoquinimink
High School
HIGHLIGHTS:
n In April, MHS Agriculture
Science Teacher Cheryl Vest was named Appoquinimink’s District Teacher of the Year. Cheryl has ignited a passion for learning in thousands of young people, and coached dozens of nationallyrecognized individuals and teams as an FFA advisor – including the 2017 National FFA President and MHS alumni David Townsend. In her remarks she noted, “We are no longer just cows, plows and sows. We are speakers, beakers, and job seekers. We teach handson skills that are tied to careers, whether in medicine, agriculture, law, engineering, science, the arts, or a trade. It is our job to promote college and career readiness by having students collaborate with each other to solve problems. Students need to understand that failure is just the beginning of another chance to succeed.” n We created a new event, the first
annual Theatre Awards Gala. The program featured show-stopping numbers from our 2016-17 season and awards for the outstanding young performers from our casts, the crew, and volunteers. The highlight of the evening was the announcement of our Mom P Theatre Scholarship winner – Ariana Gaston. n 101 students were involved in
theatrical productions – in front of, or behind the scenes. Nineteen students earned an invitation to perform at an All-State Music Event: All-State Choir–13, All-State Band–5, All-State Orchestra–1. Our school had one student selected for all-Eastern Chorus and another performed in the All-National Chorus.
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n Participation in career-related
student organizations is an important part of the MHS experience. Once again this year, our students distinguished themselves at the state and national level. FFA The Milk Quality team placed 1st in the State and 8th in the Nation. The Veterinary Science team placed 1st in the State and 10th in the Nation. The Agronomy team placed 1st in the State and 14th in the Nation. The Food Science team placed 1st in the State and 14th in the Nation. The Meats Evaluation & Technology team placed 1st in the State and earned a Silver Award at Nationals. The Forestry team was 1st in the State and earned a Silver Award at Nationals. MHS students earned 1st place in the Job Interview category at the State level and were 2nd in Nation. A student earned 1st place in the State in Prepared Public Speaking and was 5th in Nation (Ariana Gaston). We had a student finish 13th in the Nation in the Agronomy Competition (Will Nylander). Middletown’s FFA program was named a 3-Star Chapter – this honor denotes their status in the top 10% in the nation. Middletown High was named Delaware’s Agriscience Program of the Year, and teacher Cheryl Vest was named Delaware’s Agriscience Teacher of the Year. BPA Our BPA teams placed 3rd and 5th in the State Banking and Finance competition.
Our team won 1st place in the Delaware Stock Market Game. We placed 4th in the Advanced Spreadsheet Application competition. DECA The MHS team placed 1st in the State in the Business Growth Plan competition. n It was an exciting year for our
athletic programs. We were the Blue Hen Flight A Conference Champion in Football, Baseball and Girls Soccer. We won the State title in Girls Soccer. We had our first Wrestling All-American (Dante Immediato), two Gatorade Athlete of the Year winners (Daija Lampkin–Track & Field, Alyssa Poarch–Girls Soccer), the Football Lineman of the Year (Caleb Weatherford) and four conference wrestling champions (Will Carl, Hunter Hamill, Dante Immediato, Brian Schneider). Scholar-athlete Daija Lampkin rewrote Delaware’s Track & Field record book, earning six State titles and setting four State records. While at MHS, she represented the U.S.A. in a meet in Cuba, won a race at the prestigious Millrose Games in Madison Square Garden, and, in 2017 was named Delaware’s Female Athlete of the Year! n We partnered with Delaware
State University to offer a dual enrollment opportunity for young men of color during their Junior year in high school. Fourteen teens particpated in the program which offered STEM subjects with a concentration in mathematics as part of DSU’s “Early Bird” program.
Standarized Testing Spotlight
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Performance Spotlight College success
Staff resource allocation
Class of 2016 4-year College
50%
2-year College
20%
ASD Total
71%
National average
69.7%
College persistence: Freshman to Sophomore*
Enrollment 10,644
Preparation for college
Preschool 119
# AP courses
Elementary 4,710
AP assessments taken
Middle 2,678
AP attainment–PL 3+
67%
High
3,137
AP attainment–PL 4+
38%
One year enrollment growth
2.6%
24 807
Participation rate
92.5%
SAT Junior reading
514
# Students per administrator 177.4
SAT Junior math
500
Funding per student
PSAT Freshman reading
453 452
# Students per teacher
15.6 $11,587
Daily attendance
95.3%
PSAT Freshman math
Graduation rate (4-year)*
89.8%
Delaware is one of only five states who provide universal PSAT and SAT testing as an assessment measure of student progress.
Dropout rate* # Suspensions per 100 # Expulsions per 100
<1% 4.4 <1%
*Latest year available, 2015-16.
Scholarship awards Appoquinimink High Middletown High Total awarded
Teacher qualifications 10+ years of experience
55.0%
Master’s Degree or higher
61.8%
94%
2-year College students
71%
Both types of college**
88%
* Latest year available, Class of 2014. ** Significantly more students attend 4-year institutions making the overall persistence rate higher.
Top 10 college choices (alphabetical order) Delaware State University DE Technical & Community College Drexel University
PSAT, SAT
Key indicators
4-year College students
$13 million $5 million $18 million
Salisbury University University of Delaware Wesley College West Chester University West Virginia University Widener University Wilmington University Other notable choices Duke University Howard University James Madison University LaSalle University Lincoln University Penn State University Princeton University
Students per technology device Kindergarten 4:1 Elementary school
3:1
Middle school
1:1
High school
5:1
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Temple University University of Alabama University of North Carolina
Financial Spotlight How is the money spent? More than half of the ASD’s $120,251,418 expenditure budget is devoted to salaries: teachers, principals, counselors, cafeteria workers, librarians, nurses, interventionists, paraprofessionals, secretaries, custodians – everyone who supports our work with children. ASD also pays its share of employee benefits, pensions, unemployment and Medicare. These costs are established by the State of Delaware. While its employees are the district’s biggest expense, there are other costs associated with keeping our schools operating: curriculum and technology, classroom supplies, utilities, security, building maintenance and furniture. The district also pays for legal services, contracted educational services, professional development for teachers and staff, and other products and services that support our instructional program. Who’s keeping an eye on the budget?
What if I have questions?
We’re proud of the work of our Financial Advisory Committee. These volunteers are skilled financial professionals. They meet monthly, year round, to review our financial documents and advise the Finance Director on fiscal matters.
ASD has been recognized with exemplary reviews by independent auditors. We’re working hard to make sure our budget and financial information is readily available and user friendly.
Important duties they provide:
l On our website, you’ll find budget presentation materials,
l Monitoring spending, its relationship to the budget and
the district’s overall financial health.
l Providing verification of financial information to the
update reports, audio files of our monthly Board Meetings and links to Delaware’s online checkbook, audit reports, bids and contracts.
l Join us for a public hearing on the recommended budget
School Board through the review and approval of the monthly financial report and annual budget.
l Providing consultation and guidance on matters relating
to finance and other review and recommendation functions as requested by the Board.
— advertised in the local paper, on our website, and on the district’s Facebook page.
l Attend PTA/PTO meetings at your child’s school. l Email questions and suggestions to finance@appo.k12.de.us.
School tax information (current year) Average home valuation
$292,650
Average amount assessed for taxes in ASD
$89,551
Tax rate/$100 assessment
$2.10
Average monthly bill
$156.89
Average annual bill
$1,882.72
l ASD is the third largest school district in the state.
Our tax rate is the second lowest in New Castle County. (Assessed Value ÷ 100) × Tax Rate = School Tax Bill
} 30% Most homeowners in New Castle County have a tax assessment of roughly 30 percent of their home’s market value. Go to the County’s website to find the assessed price of your property. Search: http://www3.nccde.org/parcel/search.
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Wilmington, DE Permit No. 650
Central Administrative Offices 313 South Fifth Street, PO Box 4010 Odessa, DE 19730-4010 Visit: www.apposchooldistrict.com Like: www.facebook.com/AppoSchoolDistrict Call: 302.376.4128 Educational Leaders Matthew Burrows, Ed.D., Superintendent Sharon Pepukayi, Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent T. J. Vari, Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent
ECRWSS Residential Customer
Board of Education Richard Forsten, Esq., President Charlisa Edelin, Esq., Vice President Norman Abrams Michelle Wall Kelly Wright About this report: ASD issues an annual report to the community each fall. In it, we present the results of the state’s standardized testing program and other key measurables including: AP testing, SAT results, enrollment, climate and discipline. This report is distributed by mail to district residents, and archived on our website and mobile app. If you are a member of a business group or community organization and would like to request a presentation about our schools, please contact the Superintendent’s Office at 302.376.4101. Pictures in this year’s report feature students from Appoquinimink High, Middletown High, and Olive B. Loss Elementary. The cover art is a collage of students and staff from every school. This document is produced in-house by the Public Information Office. Mission: Our mission is to provide a world-class education where each of our students gains the knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes needed to contribute and flourish in a global society.
District Map
2-TIME WINNER: Best Schools category.
2-TIME WINNER