November 2012
A Message From the Superintendent mdrahos@m-ecs.org
In this month’s article, I would like to try to explain the new teacher and principal evaluation system (APPR) that is now required in New York State. Like all reform efforts, this system has both positive and negative aspects attached to it. On the positive side there is going to be much more accountability based on actual student growth and performance. On the negative side of that, the only way to demonstrate growth and performance is to base it on assessments (tests). Under the new system, 40% of a teacher’s or principal’s evaluation (now tied to a 100 point score) will be tied to student growth and performance based on tests which are created beyond the control of any individual teacher. To arrive at 40% of the 100 point scoring system, three types of tests can be used: Regents and statewide exams, assessments created by testing companies or tests created by groups of teachers. In order to show growth, teachers are required to give these at the beginning of the year. Many students may be frustrated because some of the test items will be ones they had never seen previously, but should know by the end of the year. Our teachers have tried to assure all of our students that these beginning of the year tests are only going to used as a reference to where the student ends up after a year of instruction. The other 60% of a teacher’s and principal’s evaluation is tied to observations and evaluations conducted throughout the year. In Morrisville-Eaton, this 60% is based on a state approved rubric developed by Kim Marshall. For the teachers, these rubrics are organized around six domains covering all aspects of a teacher’s job performance: Planning and Preparation for Learning, Classroom Management, Delivery of Instruction, Monitoring, Assessment and Follow-Up, Family and Community Outreach and Professional Responsibilities. The rubrics use a four-level rating scale with the following labels: 4 – Highly Effective, 3 – Effective, 2 – Improvement Necessary and 1 – Does Not Meet Standards. The principals will base the ratings in each of these areas on multiple observations which are both announced and unannounced. In turn, I will be rating each of the principals on a similar rubric developed for administrators. You can view the teacher rubric at: http://www. marshallmemo.com/articles/Marshall%20Teacher%20Eval%20Rubrics%20Aug.%2031,%2011.pdf or the principal rubric at: http://usny.nysed.gov/rttt/teachersleaders/practicerubrics/Docs/MarshallPrincipalRubric.pdf So what does this all mean for students? First, the emphasis on student performance on tests and the frequency of those tests is going to increase. This is driven by federal and state mandates. Secondly, the principals and I will be in classes much more frequently. This may mean that a response to a call or e-mail will not be quite as immediate as it has been in the past. It may also mean that we schedule more of our meetings after students and teachers leave for the day. Finally, we will continue to do our best to create an enjoyable learning environment, but emphasizing the common core curriculum and assessing student achievement must be at the forefront of all instructional strategies and decisions. A copy of the APPR plan, as submitted to the New York State Education Department, is available on our district website.
M-ECS Center Stagers The Morrisville-Eaton Center Stagers will present Frank Loesser’s GUYS and DOLLS on Friday, November 16th and Saturday, November 17th at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 advance sale and $7 at the door. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning November 1st, and can be obtained from any cast member and at both the elementary and high school offices. For more information, call 684-9121.
Sincerely,
Michael R. Drahos, Superintendent “High Achievement always occurs in the framework of high expectation.” - Charles Kettering
November 2013
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
1
FRIDAY
2
Modified Wrestling & Volleyball begins
Daylight Saving Time Ends
4
JV/Varsity Wrestling begins
5
Election Day
6
Fruit Sale Sponsored by Class of 2014 November 11/5-11/16
PTO Meeting; 6:30 PM
7
Blood Drive @ High School Sponsored by NHS
8
Physicals @ High School from 8:30am-12:00 PM
9
End of 10 Week Marking Period
SATURDAY
SAT Exam
3
10
Can/Bottle Drive Sponsored by Class of 2013
Food Drive Sponsored by SLC November 11/5-11/9
11
American Education Week November 11-17
12
JV & Varsity Basketball and Volleyball begin
13
14
Shared Decision Making Group Meeting, 6 PM at M/HS Library
18
19
½ Day – Parent Teacher Conferences Elementary
20
½ Day – Parent Teacher Conferences Elementary
Poinsettia Sale Sponsored by NHS November 11/19-11/30
25
26
Regular Board of Education Meeting, 7 PM M/HS Library
16
Report Cards Mailed
High School Musical @ 7:30 PM
17
High School Musical @ 7:30 PM
Great American Smokeout
Veterans’ Day - No School
Veterans’ Day
15
Grade 7-12 School Pictures Retake Day
21
Thanksgiving Recess No School
22
Thanksgiving Recess No School
23
Thanksgiving Recess No School
24
Thanksgiving Day
27
28
29
Elementary School Pictures Retake Day
30
5
Elementary Parent-Teacher Conference Half Days November 19, 2012 November 20, 2012 March 21, 2013 11:15 a.m. dismissal Lunch will not be served these days. November 2012
M-ECS Sounds of the Season The Morrisville-Eaton Middle/High School Music Department invites you to celebrate the sounds of the season with us at our annual Holiday Concert on Wednesday, December 12th at 7:00 p.m. in the M/HS Auditorium. This concert will feature the middle and high school chorus, band, and chamber choir. This event is free and open to all who want to enjoy an evening of music.
Fitness Center Hours The fitness center will re-open to the public starting November 26th. The hours it will be open are: Monday and Thursday Nights from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
LIONS Club Service Awards If you feel your son or daughter could be eligible for the Lions Club Service Award please call Ann Marie Martorana at 684-5903.
2
December 2013
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
January 1st
Wrestling Tournament
Winter Recess, No School
2
SAT Exam
3
4
Entertainment Book Sale Sponsored by Class of 2016 December 12/3-12/14
9
10
First Day of Hanukkah
1
PTO Meeting; 6:30 PM
5
6
7
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
8
ACT Exam
Tree Lighting Ceremony, 7:00 PM @ Crouse Community Center
11
Shared Decision Making Group Meeting, 6:00 PM at M/HS Library
12
M/H School Band/Chorus Concert @ 7:00 PM
13
Elementary Concert; 7:00 PM; Cafeteria
14
15
Elementary In-School Concert; 9:30 AM, Gymnasium
End of 15 Week Marking Period HS Winter Ball For Grades 9-12 from 7:00-10:00 PM
16
17
23 30
31
18
Regular Board of Education Meeting, 7:00 PM M/HS Library
24
Christmas Eve No School
19
21
22
15 Week Reports Go Home
First Day of Winter
Progress Reports Mailed
25
Christmas Day No School
26
Winter Recess No School
New Year’s Eve No School
Winter Recess No School
27
28
29
Winter Recess No School
6
Fruit Sale
Christmas Tree Lighting
The Class
Friday, December 7th 7:00 p.m. Crouse Community Center
of
2014
is sponsoring a
Florida
or-
November 5th November 16th. Anyone interested in ordering can e-mail Karin Howlett at khowlett@mecs.org. Profits from their sale will go toward the junior prom. ange and grapefruit sale from through
Come Join In The Holiday Fun * Santa and Mrs. Claus will be arriving on a horse drawn sleigh at 7:00 p.m. * Carol around the newly lit Christmas tree with the
Elementary Winter Concert ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
elementary chorus
* Visit with Santa while enjoying cookies and hot *
20
cocoa Sleigh rides
December 13, 2012 7:00 p.m.
Sponsored By The Campus Community Relations Committee of the Village of Morrisville and Morrisville State College
Mark Your Calendar! The Writers’ Jubilee will be held on
Saturday, April 20, 2013
with Keynote Speaker Jerry Pinkney
* This event will be held regardless of a school related closing.
3
November 2012
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS A Message From the Elementary Principal Dear Families and Students: We are looking forward to Parent-Teacher Conferences this month. The information below is intended to help you feel prepared for and comfortable with your conference. What will you receive at the Parent-Teacher conference? •
Your child’s report card
• • • • •
an opportunity to get to know your child’s teacher an opportunity to hear about your child’s progress in academic, social, and emotional development and to learn about strengths and special abilities a chance to establish mutual goals with your child’s teacher to give additional support in areas needing improvement a chance to share important information with the teacher which will be helpful in understanding your child’s needs an opportunity to ask specific questions
• • • • • •
specific information on performance in academic areas and how your child is doing in relation to grade level standards samples of class work the books and materials your child is using information on your child’s special interests and abilities relationships with others behavior in and out of class
What should parents expect from a Parent-Teacher conference?
Your child’s teacher will discuss your child’s school progress including some or all of the following:
The teacher also may share observations which could be helpful to your child (hearing, seeing, etc.) or may have suggestions or ideas you can use at home to help your child in school. It is also an opportunity for you to share information about your child that can be helpful to us when working with your child. Helpful hints • • •
Please be on time. Try to follow the schedule which has been set up. If you feel you need more time, ask about setting up another conference at a future date. Call the school if a last minute emergency prevents you from coming at the scheduled time. Please keep in mind the parent-teacher conference is scheduled to exchange information about your child and the curriculum at the grade level. The parent-teacher conference is not the time for a general discussion of educational philosophy, nor is it the time to discuss the ability, style, or program of another teacher.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at 684-9288 or via e-mail at ddushko@m-ecs.org. Sincerely, Debra A. Dushko Elementary Principal
November 2012
Thrilling Third Grade Readers Pictured below from Left to Right are Cameran Gelatt, Alejandra Medina-Loeza, and Cara Fellone.
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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS Thrilling Third Grade Readers We are working to improve fluency, expression, and comfort with oral reading! Each Friday, a student in Mrs. Pierce’s classroom community reads to the class from a book of his or her choice. A new reader is chosen on Monday of each week, and that student prepares and practices throughout the week in order to be an expert reader for Friday’s honor. Our pictured reader is Daisy Abrahamson. She was the brave first reader!
Mrs. Lake's Second Grade Class Ab”cell”lutely Amazing Science Mrs. Duffy’s and Mrs. Taylor’s 5th grade Science classes have been busy learning about and exploring plant cells and Pictured above: animal cells. Students were Victoria Sgarlatta excited to learn all about these microscopic “building blocks of life”. Students had the chance to create animal cell diagrams using noodles, cereal, twizzlers, and other crafting materials to represent cell organelles. Students were also able to use the microscopes to check out slides of amoebas, leaf cells, cheek cells, onion cells, chromosomes, and even cell organelles like mitochondria and vacuoles! Students also learned how cells group together to form tissues, organs, systems, and organisms.
Haley Cranwell and James Dapson "reading to a partner"
Fifth graders are now going to be applying their knowledge of cells to future science units exploring human body systems. They are very excited to begin the next unit, the digestive system.
Pictured above is Delaney Koehl's cell diagram
Joshua Tomcho "reading to self"
Pictured above: Karyn Hill & Sarah Lepkowski
Mrs. Tracy Baker and her son Evan sharing at open house 5
November 2012
MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL NEWS A Message From the Middle/High School Principal
Dear Families and Students,
The Middle/High School has had a very successful start to the school year. Fall is in full swing and the scenery in our community is absolutely amazing. Students and faculty are hard at work diving into their curriculums. I would like to remind everyone that the marking period officially comes to an end on Friday, November 9th. Report cards will be mailed on Friday, November 16th. On November 16th and 17th, the drama students will perform the musical, “Guys and Dolls”. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Mr. Rogers, Mr. McCarthy, and Mrs. Farrar have been working diligently with our student performers to make this a fun filled and enjoyable evening for everyone. I encourage you to come out and enjoy the performance. Tickets will be $6 in advance and $7 at the door. You may purchase tickets from any cast member or by calling the school at 684-9121. A reminder to all parents that the Parent/Student/Teacher Advisory Group meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the elementary school. Everyone is welcome to attend the meetings. Are you interested in receiving text message or e-mail reminders about events at the middle/high school? In an effort to improve our communication with parents and students, we have set up a new system through Remind 101. This allows us to send a quick text or e-mail to remind you of important events. This is different from the district alert system. To set up text messaging; call the following number (858) 207-4318, in the message type the following: @morrisv and then send the text. A text will be sent back to you asking for your name, put your name in the text and send. You are now registered. If you would prefer to receive an e-mail instead, you can send an e-mail to the following morrisv@remind101.com. If you would like to read more about the system go to www. remind101.com. From time to time I also send a longer e-mail to parents. If you have not received one this school year, we do not have your e-mail in our system. Please call Karen Dailey at the middle/high school office at 684-9121 so that we can update your information. I would also like to remind parents that you can have access to the parent portal. The parent portal allows parents access to their student’s records. If you are interested in learning how to use the system and gaining access, please call Karen Dailey at the middle/high school to sign up for training. Attentions Seniors: If you have any questions or concerns, It is important to be aware of upcoming college admission deadlines. please feel free to contact me at 684-9121. Please communicate with Mrs. Cesta or Mrs. Anderalli in the Counseling I hope you enjoy the rest of your fall. Center about your college applications. Be sure to check out our website periodically for scholarship updates. Sincerely, Christopher A. Brewer Middle/High School Principal
Girls Varsity Soccer Team
November 2012
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MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL NEWS The Lions Club Student Service Award Recipients for September are Patrick Ashcraft and Andrea Jayson Patrick Ashcraft, a sophomore, is the son of Janine and Leslie Ashcraft. At MECS, he is involved in football, wrestling and baseball, and participates in a summer baseball league. Patrick sings in chorus and has been in the school plays since middle school. He is a member of the Leo’s Club. Patrick is very active in his community and he helps out at the Public Library and with the Touchdown Club. He also assists at wrestling sectionals, helping in any way he can. Patrick’s future plan is to attend college, he is unsure of what field of study he will go into at this time. Keep up the good work Pat! Andrea Jayson, a junior, is the daughter of LeaAnn Fuller and Lee Jayson. At MECS, she’s been a member of the Student Council, Leadership Club and Leo’s Club. Andrea enjoys photography and attending Zumba classes. In her community, she is a Girl Scout and participates in many fund raisers for cancer. This year she is also attending BOCES in the Culinary Arts Program. Andrea plans on going to college to pursue a career in photography. MECS is proud of you!
The Lions Club Student Service Award Recipients for October are Morgan Fox and Carrie Eastman Morgan Fox, a freshman, is the daughter of Susan and Ray Fox. As a freshman Morgan has already accumulated 209 hours of community service. At MECS, she plays volleyball, soccer and participates in chorus. Outside of school she enjoys soccer, volleyball and baseball. In her community she participates in the Relay for Life, helps with the family picnics at the elementary school and is involved in “Red Tail Hawk Farms” where they raise organic vegetables, box them and distribute them to surrounding communities. Morgan’s future plans at this time are to attend college and travel. She is also interested in possibly becoming a journalist or a career in farming. You are doing a great job Morgan. Carrie Eastman, a junior, is the daughter of Connie and Gary Eastman. At MECS, she participates in varsity softball. She is a member of chorus, GAA and also helps with the basketball stats. She belongs to the Girl Scouts, the Leo’s Club and takes dance classes. Carrie is very busy in her community, teaching hunter safety, helping with Toys for Tots, shopping for the GAA Christmas and helping with spaghetti dinners. Her future plans include college and her interest is in Veterinary Medicine. Good luck Carrie!
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November 2012
DISTRICT NEWS Bottle and Can Drive
MECS PTO NEWS MECS PTO is off and running in the new school year. Thank you to everyone who has sent in membership forms. If you haven’t joined yet there’s still plenty of time. We meet the first Wednesday of each month in the elementary school library and look forward to new members joining us anytime. We are always looking for volunteers to assist us with the many events we hold throughout the year.
The Class of 2013 is sponsoring a bottle and can drive on Saturday, November 10th. Cans and bottles may be dropped off at Doughtery's Pharmacy or if you need special pick up, please email or contact Kathy Roher at kroher@mecs.org or at 684-9121. The proceeds of the can drive will go to support the seniors’ activities.
We now have a website that I will be updating on a regular basis with all of our upcoming activities. Access the school website at www.mecs.org, hover over District and then select PTO. Be sure to check it regularly so you can stay up to date. You can also find our membership form and meeting information there.
On November 8th, the elementary student council will be hosting the annual Veterans’ Luncheon. Students invite family members and friends who are serving, or have served in the military to join them for lunch. Mrs. O’Connor and some members of the band will be honoring our veterans by playing patriotic music. Student Council and generous staff donations pay for the guests’ lunches.
Veterans’ Luncheon
We are preparing for a busy holiday season by sponsoring the following activities at the elementary school: • Elf’s Closet – Our annual Elf’s Closet will be open December 4th – 7th during the school day for students to purchase gifts for family members. Volunteers are available to help students select from a large variety of items ranging in price from under $1 up to $10 each. Students are so proud that they can purchase their own gifts for family members. • Holiday Make & Take Card Class – We will again be hosting our very popular Family Make and Take card night on December 6th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the elementary cafeteria. Students will have the opportunity to make three different customized cards with multiple layers and embellishments. Please join us and show your creativity. This is a family activity so students must be accompanied by an adult.
In addition to our usual patriotic decorations, this year we will be creating a special bulletin board featuring information about each attending veteran and historically significant veterans. Thank you to Mrs. Jacobs-Broedel and Ms. Keefe for helping with this project.
Also, coming up are the elementary and middle/high school honor roll receptions. PTO provides a free treat from the cafeteria for all students who make the honor or high honor roll. Elementary student parents are specially invited to an ice cream reception with their children. Middle and high school students have the opportunity to win a yearbook or a $10 gift certificate for food from a Morrisville eatery. PTO donates one yearbook and one gift certificate per grade. Each student on honor or high honor has his/her name placed into a drawing and two winners are selected from each grade - one for the yearbook and one for the food gift certificate. This year we will also have tickets to special events in some of our drawings such as to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and a Syracuse Crunch hockey game.
Pictured above is the Portable Scoreboard donated to the athletic department. This donation is in memory of Richard McNamara from the McNamara family, Clark family and Parkhurst family.
Contact Information Please remember to update your contact information with the school secretary at each building. This includes addresses, phone numbers, work numbers and e-mail addresses.
M/HS Music Department Pie Sale
Feel free to contact me at 684-3796 if you have any questions or are available to volunteer at any of our events.
The M/HS Music Department would like to thank our community for supporting another successful fall pie sale. Your financial generosity, yet again, has helped us to have another great sale, and will provide musical opportunities for our students that we would not be able to do without your support. THANK YOU!
Sincerely, Lynda Lehr, MECS PTO President
November 2012
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DISTRICT NEWS
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month Laura Costello, Jr./Sr. Health Teacher
Fall 2012 Shelly Kempton, LMSW
Each year over one million women become victims of physical assault by someone with whom they are intimate. “One in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime” (Domestic Facts). About 85% of all victims are women. Most domestic violence involves power and control against another. Warning signs of domestic violence may not always be visible, but it is important to be aware of the signs and know what to do if you, or someone you know needs help. Some of the visible signs include bruises the person can’t explain, bruises on the neck or arms and possible sprained wrists or broken bones. Other signs to be aware of, but not limited to are drug or alcohol abuse, talking about their partner’s temper and losing interest in daily activities that they use to enjoy. Most cases of domestic violence are never reported to authorities. If you or someone you know needs help, please call: THE NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE at 1-800-799-7233 THE NATIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT HOTLINE AT 1-800-656-4673 THE NATIONAL TEEN DATING ABUSE HOTLINE AT 1-866-331-9474
For more information about the warning signs and ways to get help, visit the following web sites: http://www.ncadv.org/ http://www.webmd.com/search/search_results/default. aspx?query=domestic%20violence http://www.thehotline.org/
From the Health Office Germs are everywhere! Some bacteria are actually good for us i.e. helping with digestion. In preventing transfer of harmful bacteria and viruses, we all know that frequent hand washing is important. Covering a cough/sneeze minimizes airborne illness being spread. Staying home when you are in the acute stages of illness also diminishes communicability. Keeping our environments clean is another important factor. Sinks, faucets, the toilet-flushing handle and the paper towel release handle are all places that need frequent cleaning (or avoid touching by using a paper towel). Door handles and floors are important to clean also. During any outbreak of a contagious illness, notifying your School Nurse as a confirmed diagnosis helps us to know what to watch for. Also children must be fever and/or symptom free without medication for 24 hours before returning to school. Please remember to keep the school informed of any changes in contact phone numbers.
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As fall has arrived and the leaves are separating from the trees and students have adjusted to school and are hopefully completely involved with the learning of the day. Thoughts of what it takes to be completely involved in anything come to mind. Being present, emotionally integrating the haunting emotions that can circle in our heads and showing up for each moment, even the difficult ones. The essence of being ethical for the greatest good and least amount of harm to all is important. Also important is setting an example of what we believe in and what we are passionate about. Maybe this thought is associated with the knowledge that this is an election year and the sides seem so polarized. I am not sure if this is the most ethical. I suppose that is up to each individual to decide. However, the example of people very passionately believing in something and demonstrating it frequently is apparent. Besides just in the political venue, it is important for all of us to act on what we passionately believe in and what we can give to these ideas, ideals and dreams. How can we support our family, our neighborhood, our community, our schools. Ask yourself what you can give by volunteering or helping a neighbor or a group in the community. It is easier to be helpful when we feel that we have plenty of free time. It is much more difficult in times when we feel overwhelmed and undone and distraught. These difficult times are the ones that can create our inner resilience, our ability to push beyond what we feel we are capable of. We are creating some “mix it up activities” in school, where students get a chance to interact with students they don’t typically hang out with and get a chance to stretch and grow socially and emotionally as well as intellectually. Take a moment at home to discover how you can continue this idea. Ask your student and collaborate and enjoy.
November 2012
MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
2012 Homecoming by
Jordan Haugli
This year’s homecoming was focused on school spirit. Each class decorated a section of the main hallway with banners and other items that represented their grades’ extra-curricular opportunities and accomplishments. Students were encouraged to dress up each day, with themes including twin/ super hero, western/camouflage, decades/sports teams, and school colors. At the pep rally on Friday, the student council, leadership group, fall musical participants, and members of each fall sports team were recognized. The pep rally ended with a hard fought broomball tournament in which the faculty was victorious. Saturday night’s homecoming dance was well attended. Everyone that was there looked great, but this year’s trend of sparkle dresses made the girls stand out. Students enjoyed the evening with music that was provided by Reece Dailey. Admission prices were reduced with a donation to the local food pantry. This year’s homecoming week was outstanding.
November 2012
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MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL NEWS 2012 Homecoming Court
Mason Warner & Emma Baker, Dylan Stoddard & Sarah Grabiec, Queen Sara Colliier, King Dakota Miller, Prince Collin Pearsall & Princess Sierra Williams, Gracie Baker & Charles Clark II, Natalie Raymond, Matthew Paljarvi, Lacy Westcott & Dan Hilts
Varsity Football Seniors
From Left to Right: Alec Diable, Collin Pearsall, Norman Warham, J.T. Metz, Dakota Miller, Lucas MacLaury, Coach Morris, Brandon Marshall, Reece Dailey, Cody Browning, Tim St. Hilaire
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November 2012
MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL NEWS 71ST MECS NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION The Morrisville-Eaton Central School National Honor Society inducted fourteen juniors and one senior in a ceremony in the high school auditorium on Wednesday, October 24th. MECS proudly carries on its long tradition of active membership, which began in 1941. The National Honor Society ranks as one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for high school students. Chapters exist in three-fourths of the nation’s high schools and membership is an honor respected throughout one’s life. Inductees needed to have a record of meeting high standards of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Members were selected by a faculty council selected annually by the principal. This council resides membership issues for one year. This year’s Faculty Council consists of: Mrs. Burdick, Ms. Costello, Mr. Johnson, Ms. Morgillo and Mrs. Palmer. Each candidate must initially have a cummulative GPA of at least 88.0%. The Faculty Council then considers information from (1) the “Student Activity Information Form” filled out by the candidate and (2) a “Faculty Evaluation Form” completed by those who work directly with these students. In a meeting supervised by the chapter advisers (non-voting, ex-officio members) the new members are chosen by majority vote of the Faculty Council. With the candidates’ families, faculty, friends and fellow students in attendance, the MECS Chapter’s 71st annual candle lighting ceremony began with an introduction by the NHS president, Jessica Chandler who also spoke about leadership. She was followed by NHS officers explaining the significance of each of the other three qualities esteemed by the society. Secretary, Hayley Klein, spoke on service, Treasurer, Jordan Haugli, spoke on scholarship and Vice President Hayley Brown, spoke on character. Following the lighting of the candles, Chandler led new members in the chapter’s pledge and invited them to join their parents and faculty at a reception in the library. All members and the chapter’s advisers, Mrs. Beth Geatrakas and Mr. David Kaun, would like to thank the following for their assistance in making the ceremony a success: Mr. McCarthy for music, Mr. Bowie and the Maintenance Department, the principal, Mr. Brewer, the Home and Careers teacher, Mrs. Yancey, the library aide, Mrs. Roher, Guidance Counselors, Mrs. Anderalli and Mrs. Cesta and the high school secretaries, Mrs. Dailey and Mrs. Dorrance. Above all, the advisers would like to offer hearty congratulations to the new members and their families.
NEW MEMBERS: Senior Clark, Alexander Juniors Brown, Shelby Clark, Sandra Collins, Margaret Eastman, Carrie Hilts, Daniel Kent, Jenna Konieczko, Laura Krause, Nicholas Lehr, John Dylan Morris, Wyatt Nodecker, Kayla Rohrer, Matthew Snyder, Avery
These new members join the veteran seniors:
Brown, Hayley…Vice President Chandler, Jessica…President Collier, Sara Frawley, Lydia Haugli, Jordan…Treasurer Klein, Hayley…Secretary Klish, Meghan LeBlanc, Morgan…Web Master Leonard, Taylor McAdams, Olivia Olney, Aaron Thomas, William
November 2012
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DISTRICT NEWS A Note from the Girls Athletic Association Whether we want to admit it or not, the holiday season is fast approaching. It’s time once again for the GAA to start planning for the Christmas Charity Program. This program has been offered by the GAA for well over 50 years. We traditionally select ten to fifteen underprivileged families from our school district and purchase Christmas presents for those families. The club solicits donations from the community, individuals, and groups within the school. The GAA also sells food at all boys’ football and basketball home games to contribute to the program. We are proud to serve the community and are striving to keep this wonderful program alive. We would like you to become a part of our program by making a donation to the GAA. Checks should be made out to, “MECS GAA”, sent to Erin Tucker at the Morrisville-Eaton Elementary School, 55 Eaton Street, P.O. Box 990, Morrisville, NY 13408. The entire GAA would like to thank you for your continued support and wish you a happy holiday season.
Christmas 2012 It’s hard to believe that we are beginning our 27th year of the Morrisville Community Christmas project. As you know, the families that we reach out to are in need of a little support during the holidays. With the economy remaining very slow to recover it is only with your help we can offer these families the opportunity to give their children a little joy and magic that the season promises to all of us. Last year we served 90 families and just under 200 children. The generosity in our community and beyond made possible the most amazing experience for not only the parents, but the volunteers who work throughout the year to insure that the children of the Morrisville-Eaton School District have warm clothing, hats, mittens and of course a few toys and books. I’m sure that no one needs to be reminded of the slow job growth in our area in the past year. The 2012 Christmas project is expected to host a similar number of families as last year. I would ask that you consider once again giving generously so that we can meet the many requests for assistance that the elementary school receives. Judy Parker, Coordinator, and the over 50 caring volunteers in the community are excited to officially kick off the 27th Annual Christmas Program and with your support it will be another meaningful Christmas this year. The program will be held on Saturday, December 8, 2012. Please take this opportunity to send a monetary contribution to Judy Parker, PO Box 266, Morrisville, NY 13408. For tax exempt donations please make checks payable to, St. Joan of Arc Church, PO Box 1087, Morrisville, NY 13408. Donations of new clothing, toys, sleds, mittens, hats, children’s books, crayons, markers, jewelry and stocking stuffers would also be appreciated. Thank you for sharing in the true meaning of Christmas. Your generosity will make a brighter holiday for the children of our area. Warmest regards, Judy Parker Christmas “2012” Coordinator
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School Closings, Delays and
Cancellation of After School Activities Inclement weather or mechanical breakdowns may necessitate that school be closed or starting times be delayed. Local radio and television stations will carry notice of such a change. You may also check the district website at:www.m-ecs.org. A cancellation of district wide after school activities will also be publicized. The district notification service will allow us to send a telephone message to you providing important information again this year. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these calls, please call the District Office at 684-9300. The following are notified for your information: Television Stations:
Radio Stations:
WSTM • Channel 3 WKLL • 94.9 FM WTVH • Channel 5 WMCR • 1600 AM WIXT • Channel 9 WMCR • 106.3 FM YNN • Channel 10 WFRG • 104.3 FM WODZ • 96.1 FM WLZW • 98.7 FM WIBX • 950 AM WOUR • 96.9 FM WUMX • 102.5 FM WOKR • 93.1 FM WTLB • 1310 AM
Shared Decision Making Group The MECS Shared Decision Making group will meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Middle/High School Library. The public is welcome to attend the meetings.
November 13, 2012 December 11, 2012 January 8, 2013 February 5, 2013 March 5, 2013 April 16, 2013 May 14, 2013 June 11, 2013 November 2012
DISTRICT NEWS
The Morrisville-Eaton Center Stagers Present
Friday, November 16, 2012 AND Saturday, November 17, 2012 7:30 p.m. Middle/High School Auditorium Tickets are $6 Advance Sale and $7 At Door Tickets can be purchased from any cast member, from either school office, or at Dougherty’s Pharmacy.
November 2012
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DISTRICT NEWS A Message From Our Athletic Coordinator, Christopher Doroshenko Congratulations to all the MECS Modified, JV and Varsity fall sports teams. We are very proud of you all! I would also like to thank all of the coaches, athletes and parents for your time and dedication to Morrisville Eaton athletics. The girls field hockey and soccer teams both have qualified for post season play. The field hockey team earned a # 4 seed in sectionals and were named the CSC Western Division Co-Champions. The girls soccer team qualified for sectional play as the # 5 seed and has placed 2nd CSC Division 3. We would like to thank Morrisville State College and its staff for the use of the college stadium for a number of games and practices this fall. It is a great experience for our young athletes to be able to play at this facility. Again this fall, we had a combined team with Hamilton CS in Football at the Modified and Varsity levels. It has been a great experience for all those who are involved and I have had a lot of positive feedback.
Girls Varsity Soccer Seniors important starting dates for the winter season: - Modified Volleyball and Wrestling will start November 1st - Varsity Wrestling will start November 5th - JV & Varsity Basketball & Volleyball will start November 12th - Modified Boys and Girls Basketball will star January 7th
Girls Varsity Field Hockey Team
Congratulations to the 2012 Girls Varsity Field Hockey Team. They were the Center State Conference Western Division Co-Champions with a 7-2-1 record. Team members are from left to right (front row) Hayley Brown, Sandy Clark, Kathryn Parkhurst, Meghan Klish, Robin Latham, Rebecca Davis and Justice Armstong. (back row) Lacy Westcott, Natalie Diable, Margaret Collins, Jesse Woodruff, Jessi Carroll, Lauren Kellum and Jennifer Hilts. They are coached by Patti Vaughan and assisted by Cadi New.
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November 2012
DISTRICT NEWS
We Hope You Have SCHOOL PERSONNEL: Michael Drahos, Superintendent Debra Everson, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Support Services Christopher Brewer, M/HS Principal Debra Dushko, Elementary Principal Molly Wheaton, CSE Chairperson Chris Doroshenko, Coordinator of Athletics Tina Hankins, Head Bus Driver Janine Anderalli, Guidance Counselor Michele Cesta, Guidance Counselor Shelly Kempton, Social Worker Ann Marie Martorana, M/H School Nurse Mary Ellen Burt, Elementary Nurse
Regular Board of Education Meeting Monday, November 26, 2012 Middle/High School Library 7:00 PM Public Welcome
a
Wonderful Holiday Season!
SCHOOL PHONE NUMBERS: District Office..................................... 684-9300 Business Office.................................. 684-9158 Middle/High School Office................ 684-9121 Elementary School Office.................. 684-9288 Special Programs Office.................... 684-3639 Head Bus Driver................................ 684-3014 Guidance Office................................. 684-9196 M/H School Nurse............................. 684-5903 M/H School Maintenance.................. 684-7032
SCHOOL ADDRESS: Morrisville-Eaton Central School P.O. Box 990 Morrisville, NY 13408
WEBSITE: WWW.M-ECS.ORG
Morrisville-Eaton Central School P. O. Box 990 Morrisville, New York 13408
BOARD OF EDUCATION: Marian Whitney, President Jacalyn Groves, Vice-President Murry Ames Nichole Doroshenko Melanie Martin
November 2012
FAX NUMBERS: District Office.....................684-9399 Business Office..................684-9171 M/H School Office.............684-7033 Elem. School Office...........684-7252 Guidance Office.................684-9192
BULK RATE U. S. Postage Paid Morrisville, NY 13408 Permit #9 Non-Profit Organization
Postal Customer or Rural Route Box Holder ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED
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