December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
The Bridge
December 2011
LCHS Continues a Winning Season Over the past few weekends, the LCHS speech team has competed in several different tournaments and managed to bring home several awards both individual and team, including four championships. On November 5, the LCHS Speech team competed in the Calloway County Invitational, and on November 12, the team traveled to Western Kentucky University to compete in the Alumni Swing, which is two tournaments in one day. Individual championships include junior James Reding who took 1st Place in Congress at the Calloway Invitational, and freshman Alison Schurfeld who took top honors in Declamation, also at the Calloway Invitational and 3rd Place overall at the Alumni Swing in both halves of the tournament.
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[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
Other individual awards at the Calloway Invitational are as follows: freshman Brian And erson, 4th Place in Congress, 5th Place in Extemp, and 5th Place in Impromptu; senior James Reding, 3rd Place in Extemp; and sophomore Curtis Milby, 3rd Place in Humorous Interp. In the first half of the Alumni Swing hosted by WKU, other individual awards are as follows: freshman Alison Schurfeld, 5th Place th Declamation, 5 Place Prose; senior James Reding, 5th Place Extemp; sophomore Elijah Thomas, 5th Place Humorous Interp; junior Amarah Reed and sophomore Claudia King, 6th Place Improvisational Duo; senior Chelsea Blair, 3rd Place Oratory; sophomore Curtis Milby, 4th Place Poetry; and freshman Madison Lee, 3rd Place Poetry. In the second half of the swing, the following LaRue students took these honors: junior Zachary Thurman, 3rd Place Broadcasting; freshman Schurfeld, 6th Place Declamation and 5th Place Prose; senior Reding took 6th in Extemp and 3rd in Impromptu; sophomore Milby took 4th in Humorous; senior Blair took 3rd in Oratory along with her 1st place Prose win; senior Burden took 4th in Poetry; and freshmen Lee took 3rd in Poetry. The team continues to perform well, and head coach Katy Blair Cecil contends that, “Even though this is a young team, they are extremely talented and determined to make sure that LaRue County continues to make a name for itself in Kentucky speech. I believe they will continue to make this community proud. They certainly keep impressing me from week to week.�
December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
Veterans Day: A Day of Reflection and Remembrance The Larue County High School held its annual Veterans Day Ceremony in the High School Gym on November 11, 2011. In attendance were the school student body, faculty, staff, and distinguished visitors. The military guest speaker was Captain (retired) Jonathan Carl, US Army. Captain Carl is a graduate of the US Military Academy at WestPoint. He later served overseas as an Armor officer in Iraq where he witnessed, first hand, the realities of war. During his time overseas, Captain Carl explained that many of his comrades in arms made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country. Captain Carl told the students that serving your country in the military is putting your country and your unit’s welfare ahead of your own needs, and is thus a demonstration of the noblest type of sacrifice. Also recognized in the LCHS Veterans Day Ceremony were two LCHS seniors, Emily Farrar and Evan Cline, who are currently serving in the Kentucky Army National Guard. Both PV2 Farrar and PV2 Cline intend to enter into military careers after high school. PV2 Cline was awarded the Soldier of the Cycle for his basic training unit at Ft. Jackson, SC, and PV2 Farrar was awarded the High Army Physical Fitness test award at her basic training unit (also at Ft. Jackson). Closing remarks were made by Mr. Sam Sanders who reminded students to give thanks to all veterans whenever they get the chance. Although we celebrate Veterans Day just once a year, it is important to always remember that we, as American citizens, enjoy the great freedoms of our country only because of the selfless service of our Veterans.
December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
Business Classes Visit Disney
The LaRue County High School Business classes recently returned from their trip to Disney World. They spent 6 days at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida taking classes on animation, conservation, history, Walt Disney Company, marketing and leadership that were offered by Disney’s Youth Education Series. The Animation Magic class that the students attended taught them about what animation is, the different types, and how it’s made. During this class they participated in activities such as creating three different types of animation, drawing the Disney character Stitch, and watching a video about the life of Walt Disney himself. This class took place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The second day of the trip, the students traveled to Disney’s Magic Kingdom to learn about the American Story. They learned about the characters, setting, conflicts, and resolutions that make up the history of the United States. The show that the students watched in the Hall of Presidents taught them about the different presidents throughout history and the contributions that they made to the American Story.
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[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
The students moved on to their next class on day three of their trip where they learned to make history of their own. The Conservation class that the students attended at Disney’s Animal Kingdom taught them about the importance of protecting wildlife, recycling waste, and using biomass in order to form a successful community. This class also taught how the different components of community have to work together in order to prosper. The last class that the business students attended was at Disney’s EPCOT. The Leadership Excellence class taught the students about the qualities of a good leader. This allowed a new perspective on business and what it takes in order to be successful. This class also talked about the business of Walt Disney and how Disney is represented through marketing to guest. This was an eye opening experience for the future entrepreneurs and business people that were on this trip to Disney World. While on this trip, the students were required to keep track of the money that they spent on souvenirs, food, and other expenses. They used this information to complete a budget and analyze how much money they spent on the different aspects of their trip. Along with the budget, the students had to complete questions about each of the classes and how they pertained to business. The Disney trip was a truly educational experience for the students that were lucky enough to attend. This annual trip is a great opportunity for the high school students in business classes and it opens doors for those who have a bright future in the world of business and entrepreneurship.
Community Based Work Transition Program Job and Training Opportunities Bring Success Our seniors have just a few months left before transitioning to the world of work, college, or both. Despite the poor economy local businesses continue to offer employment and training
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[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
opportunities to LaRue County Students participating in the Community Based Work Transition Program. Zach Sallee’s work experience at Bennett and Bertram Funeral Home helped him obtain a job in the area of his passion, working with animals. Zach is currently employed at LaRue County Animal Clinic as a Kennel Assistant. Zach plans to work toward becoming a dog groomer. Chase Cooper has a plan vocational goal is to currently employed at work experience. After obtain employment as a electrical contractors. He Electric and David continue to work hard at applications to the
for his future as well. Chase’s become an electrician. He is McDonalds gaining valuable graduating, Chase hopes to laborer with one of the local has job shadowed at Gardner’s Whelan Electric. Chase will McDonalds, and submit various electrical contractors. Allen Jones has found his niche. Allen has been employed by Pizza Hut since June. Allen has learned the art of multitasking; moving back and forth from preparing dough, answering the phone , washing dishes, getting pizzas out of the oven, cut, and boxed, then off to make a delivery…just to mention a few of his responsibilities. Allen enjoys interacting with the customers and being a reliable team member for coworkers. Justin Brackett is continuing his training at Moore Electronics. Justin is not currently employed but has two tentative positions. He is waiting to hear from Konsei, a local factory where a former LCHS graduate, Patrick Bender, is still employed. Gamer’s Edge is also interested in hiring Justin, but the position will not be available until after the first of the year. Justin is interested in both positions and plans on accepting whichever position becomes available first. Meanwhile, he continues to submit applications. Justin finds that filling out applications for work… is work.
Elizabeth Lewis’ vocational goal is to become a dog groomer, and
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she is well on her way. Elizabeth continues to train at Best Friends Puppies. Com. She is gaining skills to accurately clip poodles, terriers, and Scotties. Karen Weaver, owner of Best Friends Puppies.Com, highly recommends Elizabeth, commenting that she has a gift for grooming and a gentle nature that puts the dogs at ease. Harvey Kent, owner of Sonburst Kennel is also impressed with Elizabeth’s grooming skills and her pleasant personality. Mr. Kent breeds and shows Chows. He has allowed Elizabeth to groom puppies as well as some of his National Champions. Elizabeth is also learning to leash train puppies. Mr. Kent has shared information on careers as trainers, and trainer assistant. Elizabeth continues to work twice a week at her co-op position at Kentucky Farm Bureau. Elizabeth’s training and work experience make an impressive resume which will give her an advantage when applying for permanent employment at grooming facilities. Elizabeth has submitted her resume at Helmwood Veterinarian Clinic, Pawish Pet Salon, and Heartland Veterinary Hospital. Juniors participating in the CBWTP are busy exploring various vocational interests and acquiring skills while volunteering at various training sites. Students learned the responsibilities of stocking, working a cash register, and importance of customer service while job shadowing at Rite Aid and Pamida. Bluegrass Cellular, Moore Electronic and State Farm opened their doors to share information about their facilities as well. Paul Lassanske, owner of Southeast DME, gave two juniors, Kaleb and Jerome, a tour of his factory and explained how they clean and repair oxygen cylinders.
Hometown Wireless
Moore Electronic
Pamida
Last month Kristen Poore, Lindsey Gibson, Michelle Hornback, and Kaleb Riggs visited a couple of grooming/breeding facilities. This month, to learn about other related vocational interests and employment opportunities; we visited E-town Pet Center and LaRue County Animal Clinic. At E-town Pet Center students were given a tour of the facility and information on the
December 2011
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numerous responsibilities…a lot of cleaning! While job shadowing at LaRue Co. Animal Clinic, students were allowed to watch as Dr. Berry performed oral surgery….Lindsey, Michelle, and Kristen all agreed that they should stick to grooming!
Andrew, co-owner of E-town Pet Store, explains the importance of keeping cages clean.
Students keep a safe distance as Dr. Berry operates.
Lindsey Gibson, Kristen Poore, and Michelle Hornback had previously visited Laugh N Learn, Kid’s Crew, The Learning Tree Child Development Center, and First Friends Child Care to learn the requirements, and responsibilities of working at a childcare facility; Lindsey is now volunteering three days a week at The Learning Tree. Michelle is volunteering at First Friend’s Child Care twice a week. Both students are receiving hands on training that will help them gain the necessary skills for working in childcare. Kristen Poore will be gaining childcare training at Kid’s Crew once her background check is completed.
Michelle learns the importance of outdoor safety while training at First Friends Child Care.
Lindsey learns ways to teach children through play as she gains training at The Learning Tree
Denzell Lewis is interested in pursuing a career in art, or law enforcement...or both. Karen Weaver owner of Best Friends Puppies.Com not only breeds and sells Toy Breed puppies; she is also an established artist. Karen showed Denzell her studio and gave him pointers on sculpting. She encouraged
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him to pursue his interest in law enforcement to support him while building a reputation as an artist. Karen has offered to have Denzell visit again to share information on using websites to promote his art. He is gaining skills and knowledge to advance his artistic abilities at Art Smart, where he is an intern. Sherry Macintosh, owner, instructs Denzell in the use of various glazes, and sculpting techniques. Denzell trains on Friday’s after school and on Saturdays. In the meanwhile, Denzell continues to explore opportunities in the area of law enforcement. Deputy Sherriff Russell McCoy shared various opportunities in the field of law enforcement and explained the requirements. Deputy Sherriff McCoy encouraged Denzell to explore online at doc.crime for more information. Through the support of local businesses and LaRue County High School Staff, students participating in the Community Based Work Transition Program are exploring a wide range of vocational interests, benefiting from hands on training, and obtaining jobs in the area of their vocational interests.
LCMS Academic Team Students Place in Heartland League Competition The Heartland League is composed of 7 area schools: East Hardin Middle, St. James School, West Hardin Middle, Grayson County Middle, Bluegrass Middle School, Stuart Pepper Middle School, and LCMS. It allows students to practice towards the Governor’s Cup Competitions which will occur in January and February. Students who participated in the competition on November 19th are: Shayne Wathen, Andrew Coy, Allison Firquin, Matthew Crain, Ripley Lucas, Fesse Gehr, Ryan Henning, Hannah Keith, Cidney Neagle, Celeste
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[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
Menard, Zachary Cooper, Harrison Hynes, Skyler Hornback, Steven Greenleaf, Jake Gardner, Cole Lucas, Alexia Trumbo, Alyssa White, Nate Risner, Sean Smith, Lauren Parker, and Ethan Blunk. LaRue County Middle School’s Quick Recall team placed 3rd in Heartland League Competition and 10 students placed in their individual subject assessment tests. Arts & Humanities Test – 1st - Jesse Gehr, 2nd - Cole Constant 5th – (tie) Andrew Coy and Shayne Wathen Science Test 4th - Matthew Crain Language Arts Test - 5th - Skyler Hornback Math Test – 4th – (tie) J.C. Dunn and Zachary Cooper Social Studies Test – 3rd - Jesse Gehr, 5th – Skyler Hornback
KNOWLEDGE MASTERS ACADEMIC COMPETITION LaRue County Middle School placed 2nd in the 2011-2012 Knowledge Masters Competition losing in the final game by only two points in overtime to St. James School. LaRue had previously won close matches between both Grayson County Middle and East Hardin Middle School before competing in the finals. Students on the Knowledge Masters team from LCMS are: Front row - Hannah Keith, Symone Whalin, Ripley Lucas, Harrison Hynes Middle row - Ryan Henning, Shayne Wathen, Skyler Hornback, Jesse Gehr, Back row - Allison Firquin, Matthew Crain, Andrew Coy, Coach Doris Jean Holleran Knowledge Masters is a middle school academic competition sponsored by the Hardin County Board of Education and HCEC-TV for area schools. It is similar to a college bowl quick recall competition with Toss-Up and Bonus questions. Matches are conducted at the HCEC-TV station in Elizabethtown, taped, and aired approximately three weeks later. The following nine area schools competed in Knowledge Masters this year: Grayson County Middle, James T. Alton, East Hardin Middle, LaRue County Middle, St. James School, West Hardin Middle, Foundation Christian Academy, Breckinridge County Middle, and Bluegrass Middle School.
December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
LCMS Community Problem Solving Team
Front Row - Left to Right: Paxton Thompson, Symone Whalin, Hannah Keith, Zachary Cooper, Hannah Harry, Ashley Dorsey Back Row – Left to Right: Kate Carnes, Hunter McLaughlin , Jacob Davis, Lalo Garcio, Austin McCreery, Hannah Jolly The LCMS Community Problem Solving Team has visited with residents at Sunrise Manor Nursing Home twice in the past few weeks. Team members enjoyed playing checkers, singing and playing the piano for residents, giving the ladies manicures, and just getting to know many of the residents there. Team members were chaperoned by coaches Doris Jean Holleran and Tom Rossi.
Firefighters Visit ALES The Kindergarten classes at ALES have been learning about the community that we live in. In celebration of Fire Prevention Month we invited some local fire fighters to come talk to us about fire safety and fire prevention. The students were able to ask questions, watch how the fire fighters use their equipment, learn about their attire, and tour the fire truck. The students loved watching the fire truck extend its ladder! In the classroom the students learned about hot and cold objects, what to do in a fire emergency and all about what a firefighter does. They learned just how important that firefighters really are and how big of a role they play in our community.
December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
BEING COURAGEOUS!! October was COURAGE month for us at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School. We focused on being “courageous” and in all we do. The week of October 23rd was Red Ribbon Week which happens all across the United States to make students aware of the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Our students received “drug free” prizes all week and had several fun activities throughout the week. Ms. Southwood went around to each classroom during the week and talked about the importance of being drug free and having the “courage” to stand up and say NO!! The students signed a DRUG FREE banner, had crazy hair/crazy hat day, pajama day, dress for success day to celebrate Red Ribbon Week. We were very fortunate to have some of the students from the high school to talk to each classroom during the week of drug awareness. It is great for the younger students to have good role models. Overall, October was an awesome month and our students and teachers showed a lot of courage in their behavior, learning, and overall character.
Fun with Math at HES
Mr. Rex Hanson, Math teacher at LCHS conducted a math workshop for HES 4th and 5th grade Gifted and Talented students. They used geometric concepts to construct Amazing Sliding Octagons. The students had a wonderful time learning about geometric concepts from Mr. Hanson. They really enjoyed incorporating math into a fun project that they could take home and share with their families.
December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
Jr. BETA Club Induction
HES held their annual Jr. Beta club induction ceremony in the HES Gymnasium on November 3rd. HES was proud to induct 41 new members. Jr. Beta Club members were chosen based on their academics and leadership skills. Jr. Beta members are expected to maintain A’s and B’s and to be responsible to help with community projects. For example, in the month of December the club will be sponsoring two local families on the Angel Tree and for January will be helping a local blood drive. HES Jr. Beta club members are: Zachary Absher, Anthony Adkins, Kayla Aubrey, Chase Baker, Sebastian Barzee, Allison Bauer, Emma Bell, Jasmine Benningfield, Kristen Boone, Deanna Carr, Lily Constant, Katey Cook, Sarah Cooper, Elizabeth Crewz, Kellee Cundiff, Noah Davis, David Durbin, Meredith Glenn, Daisy Graham, Presley Grant, Rylee Greenwell, Elyssa Hawkins, Abigail Hazelwood, Trey Ireland, Kelsey Key, Gabe Lafollette, Noah Lawler, Holden Madriaga, Jordan McClure, Brady McDowell, Katrina Moore, Taylor Newton, Trinity Perkins, Keaton Puckett, Tyler Puckett, Logan Rock, Chloe Sandidge, Alexandra Shelton, Malerie Skaggs, Kylee Thurman, and Tavias Washington. Not pictured: HES Jr. Beta sponsor Traci Weaver.
The halls are alive with music!!! Christmas music!!!
Students at HES are preparing for Christmas programs like it is going out of style. They are getting ready for their holiday concerts in December and are ready to perform. On Tuesday December 6th, Kindergarten students will be dressed up in ballerina, elf, and Christmas tree costumes and will march,
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dance, and sing to the tunes of Christmas. Third grade will also sing three Christmas medleys during this same program. On Tuesday December 13th, 1st and 2nd grade students will present their program on the many festivals and celebrations that happen in December around the world. The title of their program is “December Nights, December Lights” and it encompasses songs and narration about Hanukah, Los Posadas, Kwanza, and Christmas. Both programs start at 6:30 and will be held in the HES gym. Come join us and remember how it was to be a kid when all you wanted for Christmas was your two front teeth.
Archery in the School at HES
During the past rotation in Physical Education, third through fifth graders were introduced to the sport of archery. During the week of archery, students are able to become independent in terms of following safety procedures and general skill development. In addition to safety, students also learned about equipment, technique, and mental concentration. Various studies have linked the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) to positively influencing student attendance, behavior, self-esteem, confidence, and on task behavior. Fundraising efforts of the HES Family Resource Center purchased and helps maintain the equipment.
After developing skills, 5th grade students competed in a class tournament while 3rd and 4th grade classes earned “BULLSEYE” certificates for perfect shots within their round of five shots. The following are winners and runner ups from the 5th grade tournaments.
Girl champions included: Emma Bell, Jasmine Benningfield, Katey Cook and Alexandra Shelton. Boy champions included: Chase Baker, Rylee Greenwell, Curtis Landrum, Gavin Nall and Tyler Puckett.
December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
Harvesting First Graders for Thanksgiving First grade students in Ms. Perkins Class are studying Thanksgiving. Students are learning about the lives of Pilgrims as well as Native Americans. When asked what the Pilgrim children were expected to do, Brandon Hollis replied, “Pilgrim boys worked all day in the fields and didn’t get to play.” Hope Williams says that, “Pilgrim girls had chores to do every day. They had to milk the goats and feed the chickens.” Students are learning about the Wampanoag, how they spent their days as well as how they hunted, planted and assisted the Pilgrims in growing crops. When asked what she learned, Emma Stillwell said, “Squanto was taken to England but he didn’t want to go. When he got back all of his people and family were dead. He helped the Pilgrims too.” Students have learned the reasons why the Pilgrims wanted to come to the New World and about conditions on the Mayflower while the Pilgrims sailed. They also made a list of things that they would bring with them if they had been on the ship. Some items included Barbie dolls, fox skins, clean clothes, stuffed animals, books and food. Students also were able to experience some of the activities the children of Pilgrim days experienced for entertainment including marbles and playing with paper dolls.
H.E.S. Honors Veterans
On Veteran’s Day, Hodgenville Elementary students and staff honored their parents, grandparents, spouses and children who have served or who are currently serving in the United States Military. Many family members who are Veterans were our guests
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for a special assembly held in the gym. One of our guests served in both World War II and the Korean War. As we settled into the gym, several students and staff shared photographs of their special Veterans through a power point presentation designed by Mrs. Butler. After we said the Pledge of Allegiance together, Ms. Morris read a short history of the origins of Veteran’s Day and introduced each Veteran and his or her H.E.S. student. After Mr. Walsh led a select group of H.E.S students in singing a beautiful performance of “We Remember,” everyone joined in singing “America.” *Pictured above: H.E.S. 5th grade teacher Laura Kudrna with her husband Lucas and their children when Lucas returned after a year in Afghanistan.
Some Simple Science
HES Science Club has been busy creating structures, testing theories and mixing up concoctions. This group of students has been doing a super job. Students generally meet twice per week to work on science experiments. So far this year, students have tested the strength of paper. Students were given four sheets of regular copy paper and one yard of masking tape. The goal was to create a structure that students could stand on. One group was successful in the creation. Problem solving is critical when attempting to not only create structures but also when figuring out how things work. Students experimented with whole milk, food coloring and dish detergent. They were excited to see how the fat in the milk allowed them to mix the food coloring and view a symphony of colors. Each group was instructed to put one drop of dish detergent in the mixture. Students used conversation and problem solving skills to figure out why the colors retreated to the edges of the pan when the detergent was added.
Kindergarten visits Stage One Hodgenville Elementary Kindergarten students took a field trip to Stage One. The Kentucky Center for the Arts and Stage One has Louisville's nationally acclaimed professional theatre for young audiences and is dedicated to bringing the finest quality theatre, to young people and families. Stage One reaches beyond the page and makes curriculum connections in a non-classroom setting, with theatrical experiences students will talk about for years to come. For two years Stage One has offered the "Play It Forward" program and with the help of very generous corporate sponsors, Stage One was able to offer ticket underwriting for every Kindergarten and 1st grade student to Ferdinand the Bull!
December 2011
[THE LARUE COUNTY BRIDGE]
Hodgenville Elementary Kindergarten students enjoyed the trip to downtown Louisville. Students were able to walk the belvedere and see the George Rogers Clark statue and Ohio River. The play was the highlight of the afternoon filled with singing, dancing and a moral to be yourself.
Award Winner
LaRue County Board of Education Superintendent - Sam Sanders Board Members Price Smith - Board Chairman Dick Greenwell - Vice Chairman Norbert Skees - Member Ronnie Chelf - Member Michael Hornback – Member
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