COMMUNITY
Volunteerism
CCS Expedition program shines Commetary by Jeff Worrell We are fortunate to live in a community with a school system whose reputation clearly stands above all others. It is no secret that for years, the Carmel Clay School Corporation has been a top-three reason why people relocate to Carmel. And there are hundreds of reasons why the district is famous for excellence. Dedicated and insightful leadership in partnership with supportive parents and motivated students is a proven winning trifecta. But, there are programs and efforts to support the overall success and reputation of the organization. One such example of this is the creative and groundbreaking program called CCS Expedition. In eight monthly sessions, Expedition participants go behind the scenes of CCS to meet the people who are responsible for programs and services, and specifically how the corporation creates a climate of success for its student population. By invitation only, the Class of 2011 was the first to experience sessions like “The Business of CCS” or “Education is a PEOPLE Business.” Jack Beery, Dad’s Club President, was a member of the inaugural class. He said, “Having the opportunity to learn about all aspects of the Carmel Clay School system from curriculum to the safety of our children was very impressive.” Another member of the freshman class, Greg Cooper, shared his excitement about the program: “The remarkable methods of team
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teaching that we observed first hand in our elementary schools with the incredibly talented students, teachers and department leaders we interacted with at CHS meant that every meeting was filled with new experiences.” Beery and Cooper’s classmates are Angela Horner, Jason Black, Anne and Brian Poindexter, Celest Mathews Higgins, David Bowers, Donna Tutwiler, David Haboush, Kevin Rider, Mo Merhoff, Mark Westermeier, Rich Taylor, Sherri Pankratz, Tim Green, Wendy Phillips and William Hammer. These people now serve as district ambassadors, able to answer questions and shed light on issues. Tricia Reynolds, Community Relations Coordinator for CCS explains a primary goal. “The idea is to identify community leaders who might not have a connection with the school district. We want to share with them the accomplishments that are being made and to help them understand how their tax dollars are being spent.” The CCS Expedition program clearly goes above and beyond the typical expectations of a community and sets the bar another notch higher. Just another reason we live in a community which not only appreciates its school system, but loves it. Jeff Worrell is a local businessman. He recognizes volunteers on “Connecting with Carmel” on cable channel 16. Contact him at jworrell@ advantagemedical.com
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August 7, 2012 | 5