Eagle Nation | Spring 2022

EAGLENation

The Plain Local Schools Community Magazine

Get to know the district nurses Meet the six women focused on keeping our schools healthy and safe.

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Vol. 1 | No. 1

Spring 2022

IN THIS

Issue

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Eagle Nation magazine is published by Plain Local Schools.

It is distributed free of charge to community residents, businesses and Plain Local staff. The purpose of Eagle Nation magazine is to provide our readers information about life and learning in the Greater Plain Township community. It is not intended to be a public forum.

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Letter From the Editor

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What’s Your Why?

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Get To Know the District Nurses

11 GlenOak High School Pathway

Spotlight: Nursing Program Offers More For Less

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Arts Spotlight: The Little Mermaid

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ESSER Infographic

14 Athletic Spotlight: GlenOak Athletes Compete at States

Questions, comments or advertising regarding Eagle Nation can be emailed to beddellm@plainlocal.org. Federal Law prohibits Eagle Nation from carrying ads containing offers of insurance policies, credit cards and travel promotions. The Plain Local Schools Board of Education reserves the right to reject any press release or advertisement based on content.

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY The Plain Local School District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability or age with respect to employment or educational programs and opportunities to students.

Anti-Harassment Compliance Officer, Darci Knight 330-492-3500.

Letter From the Superintendent

8 Watch Our Students Soar To New Heights

Editor: Mary Beddell, Plain Local Public Relations Director Eagle Nation Plain Local Schools 901 44th Street NW Canton, Ohio 44709 Office: 330-492-3500 Fax: 330-493-5542

Eagle Nation designs are trademarks of Plain Local Schools. All advertising art and editorial content is copyright protected and cannot be used without express written permission. The publisher and its affiliates are not liable for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for the ad.

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Athletics Schedules

16 Community Partner Spotlight: Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health 17 GlenOak Partners with the City of Canton 18

Mental Health Awareness

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Hidden Historic Homes

20 Second Saturdays Coming to Oakwood Square

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Spring Has Sprung In Your Plain Township Parks

21 Plain Local Schools Foundation and Alumni Association 23

Board of Education Spotlight

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Plain Local Schools Board of Education Meeting Dates

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2022-2023 Important Dates

24 Class of 2022 Commencement Save the Date

LETTER FROM THE

LETTER FROM THE

Dear Community,

Dear Community,

I am very excited to introduce Plain Local’s new magazine, Eagle Nation! This fresh design provides a new look inside Plain Local Schools. The district will continue to feature students, staff, and community partners in a format that will be more user-friendly and long-lasting. Plain Local has so much to celebrate and I believe this will be a better way to honor the school district and community. As spring brings new growth and opportunity, Eagle Nation will provide a renewed look at the Plain Local School District.

For the last eight years, I have had the pleasure of serving as Director of Public Relations for Plain Local Schools. I am proud to tell our community the stories of our innovative classrooms, hardworking students, dedicated staff, and incredible partnerships each and every day. I am lucky that we have strong leadership in Plain Local Schools that value the importance of communication and celebrating our successes.

Superintendent

This inaugural edition highlights the Plain Local nursing staff. This group of individuals has provided outstanding service to our community during the pandemic. They continue to work with families to provide the best and most updated medical information and recommendations. There is no playbook for the current environment, but their dedication to our students and staff has been amazing. Their number one goal was to ensure everyone was safe and learning continued at all buildings. They worked evenings and weekends so students could remain in school and participate in extracurricular activities. They also navigated the ever-changing landscape of the pandemic and adapted overnight to new local and state guidance. They are champions and I am proud to work with them daily in Plain Local. Thank you!

I hope you will take some time and read about the exceptional learning and collaborations that are taking place in Plain Local.

Students are accomplishing some amazing things and our staff is providing a learning environment that meets the needs of every child. I would like to draw your attention to the ESSER information on page 13. These grant-funded programs have provided enhanced learning opportunities for students at all grade levels in addition to mental health resources. I am proud of the work that has been accomplished and look forward to our growth as we begin planning for the 2022-2023 school year.

Editor

Our newest venture is bringing our community a fresh and engaging magazine that helps tell our school’s stories as well as keep our community informed. I hope you have as much fun reading this first issue of Eagle Nation as we have had putting it together.

One of my favorite things about working for Plain Local Schools is being a part of a team that always strives to be better each day than the one before. It is with this sentiment that we worked to put together a magazine that we hope will become a staple in our community.

Eagle Nation will be published quarterly and we are already working on our next issue to celebrate the class of 2022!

Eagle Nation is just one of the things we are working on to help keep our community informed. Next up is an updated website and app that we think will better meet the needs of all families in Plain Local. Look forward to our new look at plainlocal.org before the start of the 2022-2023 school year.

Enjoy reading about all of the amazing things happening in our Plain community!

Go Eagles!

Thank you for the opportunity to serve the students, staff, and community.

Go Eagles!

Mary Beddell Director of Public Relations

Brent May Superintendent

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Our theme for the 2021-2022 school year is “What’s Your Why?” Your “Why” is a statement of purpose that describes why you do the work you do and why you live the lifestyle you do. It is your calling. It is your conviction. It is your mission statement. It is a vision of your life’s work. All of this together makes up your personal “WHY.” Stay tuned as we share through the 2021-2022 school year examples of “WHY” we do the work we do. In each issue of Eagle Nation magazine we will share WHY statements from our staff, students and community members!

Fran Rekstis Instructional Aide at Middlebranch Elementary

Ryan McGonagle Physical Education Teacher at Glenwood Intermediate School

To provide stability….Stability for our students with academic needs, as well as emotional needs. I want the students, and our staff for that matter, to know they can count on me to help them any way I can.

Teaching provides a unique opportunity to connect and build relationships. My “WHY” is to use that opportunity to do three things on a daily basis. Be a positive influence in the lives of our students, impact the overall school culture at GWIS and give our students a GREAT experience — we want them to leave us and be glad that they went to school here. My “WHY” goes far beyond academics. We want our kids to leave Glenwood not just as better students, but as better people and members of the Plain Local community.

Vickie Casper School Counselor at GlenOak High School I enjoy guiding and helping youth solve problems and pursue goals. The challenge of working toward a better future for everyone is fulfilling.

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Samantha Ratchford Food Service at Avondale Elementary My why is ensuring our students are well fed to have a successful day at school, to know that they are so loved, and to put a smile on their faces!!

Ryan Cartwright Community Liaison at Taft Elementary To ensure each student and their families receive the love and warmth they need to succeed as a unit. Walking along side parents and carrying their burdens with them, to give them space to create healthy environments in their own lives and the lives of their children.

Hannah Ferguson Intervention Specialist/ Coach at Oakwood Middle School Fergie’s “Why” (a poem) Becoming a teacher is a job people think is simple you read, give assignments and that’s it my job is not simple my “why” for teaching is complex my “why” for what I love to do is much more My “why” is for the next generation my “why” is to represent the students who look like me my “why” is to be a role model for all students to look up to my “why” is to advocate for those who are overlooked my “why” is to support the whole child my “why” is to mentor those seeking guidance my “why” is knowing I’ve helped students to know their worth my “why” is the relationships I’ve made along the way and will continue to make Teaching is not simple

GET TO KNOW THE District Nurses 1

Nancy Cooley, Warstler, Middlebranch, and Barr Elementary schools as well as overseeing all nine schools

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Bobbi Jo Kintigh, Oakwood Middle School

The job of a school nurse is a complex one, from keeping up to date with immunization records and supporting our students with medical needs, to dealing with the day-to-day bloody noses and playground injuries, the plate of a school nurse has always been full. Flash forward to March 2020 when the whole world shut down thanks to one big new phrase, COVID-19. Seemingly overnight school nurses were expected to be experts in all things COVID-19.

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Jennifer Oliver, Avondale, Frazer, and Taft Elementary schools

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Sarah Furbee, GlenOak High School

Our nurses instantly had to navigate the ever-evolving state mandates, answer parent and staff questions and face the unknown. In Plain Local we were lucky to have district nurse Nancy Cooley in the captain’s chair as we faced this storm ahead. By her side were Tina Perrin, Susan Kear, Bobbi Jo Kintigh, Sarah Furbee and Jennifer Oliver.

While it feels like the storm we have been living in is slowly starting to subside, the work of our school nurses is never over. We were able to chat with our district nurses to get to know them a little better. We are immensely grateful for our team of district nurses and all they do for our students each and every day!

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Susan Kear, Glenwood Intermediate School

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Tina Perrin, GlenOak High School

Nurses across the Plain Local School District include:

1 Nancy Cooley, Warstler, Middlebranch, and Barr Elementary schools as well as overseeing all nine schools

2 Jennifer Oliver, Avondale, Frazer, and Taft Elementary schools

3 Susan Kear, Glenwood Intermediate School

4 Bobbi Jo Kintigh, Oakwood Middle School

5 Sarah Furbee, GlenOak High School 6 Tina Perrin, GlenOak High School

What is a typical day like in your position?

NC: Often my schedule changes in response to urgent health needs/ concerns or accidents. I often travel to several school buildings a day and there are certain students with chronic health issues that I must see daily to provide care for them. Focus on preventive care varies depending on what time year we are experiencing.

JO: As a school nurse I spend my day traveling between the three schools based on the needs of the students. We make sure the students are getting the care they need related to illness or injuries.

We interact with parents, guardians and staff providing guidance on the options available to meet the students’ health needs.

TP: My days are never typical! I get surprised daily. That’s what makes my job great.

What is your favorite part of your job?

SK: The kids, though challenging at times. I love the teachable moments. They are at the stage of trying to figure out who they are, wanting to be grown, but not too much. This is the time I hope I can make a difference for some of them who need some guidance re: healthy living, how to take care of themselves and make good decisions. There are always those few who I can tell the clinic is their “safe place” or place to run to – haha. But seriously, sometimes they are frustrated or actually trying to behave and need somewhere to go.

SF: I love that no two days are the same. I see a variety of students with a variety of health concerns and enjoy helping every one of them.

TP: The interaction with students is my favorite part of the job. If I can teach a student something that they use throughout their life, I am thrilled.

What is one thing you wish people knew about Plain Local Schools or your specific position?

NC: The school nurse’s job far exceeds the notion that nursing in a school only involves bandages and ice packs. Also, all of the Plain Local nurses come with previous experience in other areas of nursing and bring a cumulative, many decades, of valuable knowledge to the job. That experience includes ER, ICU, pediatrics, drug addiction rehabilitation, med/surg hospital, teaching, geriatric, psychiatric, and even obstetrical and gynecology nursing!

BJK: As a nurse we have to keep up with our licensures and all required standards. We have many specialties to our background besides our current titles of school nurses. I have worked in a hospital for 17+ years before coming to Plain Local Schools. Our goal is to keep our building safe and as healthy as can be for our children to get a good education. After all, they are our future.

SK: I like the “community” feel of Plain Local. It is also very diverse, which in this world is a good education in itself. My job…that it is way more than handing out bandaids and ice bags. Though not always physically stressful, there are days it is emotionally stressful and I may worry about a student(s) after the buses pull away.

What is your favorite thing about being part of the Plain Township community?

BJK: Plain Township is there to celebrate in the good times but also jumps in when there is a crisis that happens to not only our community, but we support our surrounding communities as well. This community is always willing to support however they can. I am proud to not only work in Plain but also to live here.

JO: Working within and being able to give back to the community that I grew up in and still live in. I love being able to help students and be someone they see as safe and willing to help them in any situation.

NC: The people I work with and seeing how much they really care about the children in our care.

What is one thing you are proud of that has come out of the last two years and the COVID pandemic?

SF: Plain Local’s dedication to keep students in school during the pandemic.

SK: Other than “we survived!” No seriously, out of necessity we have had to not only learn to work more closely together as a team, but in general most people have had to consider the health and safety of others around them. Hand washing and staying home when you are sick, even though that was what we should have done, it is now what we do. Hopefully we were a part of making a difference in the safety and support of the children in this district.

JO: One of the things I am proud of is the collaboration that occurred to enable students to get safely back into the classroom in a timely manner.

If you could share one piece of advice to Plain Local students, what would it be?

NC: Take advantage of the wonderful educational options and experiences that Plain Local has to offer to prepare you for your future endeavors. You have many cheerleaders in the staff at Plain Local Schools rooting you on!

SK: There are way more people who care about them and their future than they realize. And they always have someone to turn to if they need help.

SF: Plain Local offers many career and technical programs or opportunities to earn college credits in high school. Take advantage of the opportunities to set your future up for success.

If you are not at work, what can you be found doing?

NC: Reading and traveling as much as possible.

SF: Spending time with family or reading a good book.

SK: I love being outside – if it is warm. I am a daughter, sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law and NANA. And I am a woman of strong faith.

BJK: Spending time with my family and furbabies.

TP: When the weather is nice, I enjoy walking, concerts and working in my garden. During the winter months I enjoy attempting small home projects, crafts and staying warm.

JO: When I am not at work I can be found spending time with family and friends!

Final thoughts or anything else you would like to share?

SK: It is never a waste of time to care for others. Most of the time our time is far more valuable than our money.

JO: It has been my passion for years as a nurse to make a difference in people’s lives, being a difference-maker to our students is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had!

BJK: I am proud that my husband and I were able to have raised our guys at Plain Local Schools. We are proud parents to be on this next journey with them while they are currently serving our country in the United States Air Force.

NC: Go Eagles!!!

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WATCH OUR STUDENTS Soar to New Heights Avondale: Butterfly Projects Build Brain Power First grade students in Mrs. Eckelberry’s class boosted their brain power by completing a multi-subject butterfly project. This project combined literacy and math learning standards and allowed students to express their creativity in the process! As part of the first grade literacy module on “Creature Features,” students had the opportunity to learn about many different kinds of creatures and critters, with a class favorite being butterflies. Mrs. Eckelberry used this interest in butterflies to boost her math instruction on symmetry and fractions. She states, “After learning about all of the fascinating features of butterflies during our reading unit, we incorporated this interest into our math studies. One feature that makes butterflies so beautiful is their symmetry.

Students in first grade are beginning to deepen their understanding of this concept and how it ties to fractions and equal parts. I love the creativity of their final products!”

Barr: Learning on Display in a Creative Way!

First graders Ivan Bickis, Kira Nicholson and Kyle Gregory created these butterflies to show what they have learned during reading and math time.

Mrs. Eckelberry wasn’t the only one “all aflutter” over these projects. Ivan shared that his favorite part was learning that “symmetry means one side is the same as the other!” Kira is an artist by nature and loved adding her own special details to her butterfly, stating, “It’s so beautiful.” Kyle’s favorite part? “All of it.”

Middlebranch: Kindergarteners Have a ‘Blast in the Past’ Do you ever wonder what life was like for students over a hundred years ago?

Lena D’Agnese and Callie Eicher try using the washboard station.

Kindergarten classes at Middlebranch had the opportunity to explore that question in depth.

During their learning module “Then & Now,” they traveled back into the 19th and early 20th centuries. The students read books, held lessons, played games, tried household chores and other school activities from the past. During indoor recess, the students played marbles, tops, jacks, and quilt making and discussed how they were different. Mrs. Helmkamp’s class was transformed into a one-room schoolhouse and Mrs. Julian’s class practiced writing with a quill pen and ink. The kindergarteners were excited to learn, try, and then discuss the various ways life was different for kids.

Frazer: New Energy Group The end of the school year is so close, yet so far away! Physical Education teacher, Mr. Rininger, is taking on the task of keeping students focused during the 4th nine weeks by forming a daily club for students at Frazer Elementary! Mr. Rininger and Frazer Elementary Success Coach, Ms. Vitale, meet with students to work on physical education skills as an energy release first thing in the morning. The group consists of students in kindergarten through second grade and includes mentor students in third and fourth grade who lead the younger students in the activities. Students spend 15-20 minutes in the gym working on PE skills, then conclude with a one-minute controlled breathing cool down. The goal is to help students get ready for learning.

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Devin Upshaw, Axel Mutigli, Levi Stidd, Teagan Snyder, and Cory Branch get their energy out so they are ready for a day of learning!

The students have found the Energy Group to be a great way to start the day!

Sebastian Villanueva proudly shows his diorama which highlights a scene from the chapter book The Owl Diaries.

Second graders in Mrs. Greynolds’ classroom had the opportunity to display their learning in an exciting and creative way! Students completed a reading interest survey and selected a chapter book to complete a book project that focused on the importance of summarizing. Summarizing is an important skill as a developing writer. It builds on prior knowledge, improves writing, and strengthens vocabulary skills.

Students had the opportunity to showcase their love of reading by presenting their chapter books to their class. After reading their self-selected book, they worked with Mrs. Greynolds to type a summary of their book. Then students had an opportunity to choose a way to present their understanding of their book in another way. This included a diorama, collage, or book jacket. These students chose to illustrate their understanding by creating a diorama. They did a fantastic job presenting a summary of their book and diorama to the class.

Whenever students have the opportunity to share their understanding in a new and exciting way, it teaches them the importance of recognizing their own strengths. As they are able to see their own strengths, they grow as learners.

These students had the opportunity to display their learning in a way that was personally unique and innovative to them.

As a result, this inspired their fellow classmates. Sometimes we have the privilege of inspiring others through our own experiences of growth! You’re never too young to inspire!

Warstler: What’s the Buzz?

Taft: Akron Zoo Partnership

Mrs. Cogan’s first grade class at Warstler Elementary were buzzing with excitement as students got a chance to see a real frame from a beehive. The frame still had honey on it, as well as a few dead bees stuck to the comb. Those bees unfortunately didn’t make it through the winter, as is sometimes the case.

Most kids love a trip to the zoo, but can you imagine if the zoo came to YOU? Taft Elementary has partnered with the Akron Zoo to bring the ZooMobile into the Kindergarten classrooms as a valuable learning tool. Learning to identify emotions can be challenging, but it’s so much fun to learn about them from a prickly tenrec named “Thistle” or “Little One,” the calm turtle. The Akron Zoo instructors use new animal friends each week to spark vibrant classroom conversations about socialemotional topics. Students also learn about diverse animal characteristics, showing regard for all living things, and what animals need to survive. The Akron Zoo provides engaging lessons that cater to the needs of the students and also meet the academic standards for Life Sciences in the State of Ohio. From a millipede to a snake – the children are mesmerized by both the topics and the animals!

The students got this rare opportunity since in her free time, Mrs. Cogan is a beekeeper!

She’s been sharing her knowledge of bees and how they help the environment with Warstler Elementary students since she started the hobby almost three years ago.

In addition to getting an up-close look at the frame (where the bees actually make the honey), the students also got a chance to

Isla Scaracchia and Charlie Miller taste test honey!

taste some honey straight from the comb.

Most of the students gave the honey two wings up for good taste.

GlenOak: On the Scene with a New Forensics Class GlenOak High School introduced a new fun and engaging Forensic Science class during the 2021-2022 school year for our students to experience. Taught by Ms. Anthony, the course covers topics including The Innocence Project, impairment, hair and fiber evidence, fingerprinting, crime scene sketching, ballistics, blood spatter and DNA analysis and much more.

Students have explored each of these topics in-depth and have had many opportunities for hands-on laboratory and learning experiences.

Ms. Anthony shared, “Forensics has been very well received by students, and they have really enjoyed themselves while learning about this very dynamic field of study. This is a great opportunity for those interested in careers in law enforcement, or just those who enjoy true crime mysteries!”

Forensic Science is a full-year course and meets the graduation requirement for a third science credit, or can count as an elective credit. We are excited to offer Forensic Science once again for the 2022-2023 academic year where it will only get better!

Planning has already begun, and more hands-on opportunities will be in place for the

Students take turns getting their fingerprints taken in Ms. Anthony’s Forensic Science class at GlenOak High School.

upcoming school year. Any questions about this course can be directed to Ms. Julie Anthony at: anthonyj@plainlocal.org. continued on next page >

Taft Elementary Kindergarten student Maggie Utterback peers in at Sparky as other students wait for their chance to meet the bearded dragon, too!

Glenwood: Game On Feeling nostalgic? Glenwood Intermediate students get hands-on as 5th grade STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) students create their very own pinball machines. After using dominos, toy cars and ramps to learn about simple machines and energy transfer, students sketched and built working pinball machines. Students used found objects to design inclined planes and levers to create the machine components. Once they had a

design in mind students got to work testing the force of objects to determine the correct angle of the ramp and weight of the marble needed to play. This was a great opportunity to learn the science behind our favorite games! Special thanks to parents who helped send in clean recyclable items to be used in our building projects. A special thank you to the cafeteria staff at Taft Elementary for saving cardboard boxes for the project!

Marina Warner, Brooklyn Wymer, Carter Teter, Emma Harris, Eden Peterson, and Lucas Fox show off their pinball machines.

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Oakwood: And the Verdict Is….

Oakwood 8th grade students in Mr. Adkins’s Language Arts class experienced quite a twist to accompany reading the novel Monster.

Monster is a young adult drama novel by American author Walter Dean Myers. The students worked in litigation teams to debate over the murder case of the main character, Steve Harmon. Students had the choice to work on the defense team or the prosecution team. Students then prepared their arguments to address the judge, Mr. Adkins, by using the MEL-Con writing process. The writing process involves prewriting, composing, evaluating, revising, and finally editing. They demonstrated their understanding of citing evidence to support their claim with quotes from the text.

Officer Beach, Oakwood Middle Schools School Resource Officer from the Stark County Sheriff’s Office, sat in as an “expert” witness.

Teams were able to ask him specific questions and argue their points, as they quoted text evidence. Students were passionate in their arguments, showed great listening skills, and were able to counter the other teams’ arguments. While one of the litigation teams gave their opening statements, the other prepared rebuttals to challenge them. They also incorporated different persuasive techniques

An emotional appeal is given by the defense in Mr. Adkins Language Arts class at Oakwood.

such as using facts and emotional appeal – skills the students recently practiced while writing persuasive essays. Judge Adkins kept great order in his courtroom and helped students to stay realistic to the process. The simulation ended with Officer Beach giving his

explanation for a verdict based on the facts presented by the student teams.

The students were anxious to finish the book to see if Officer Beach’s verdict was the actual outcome. We shall soon find out!

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GLENOAK HIGH SCHOOL PATHWAY SPOTLIGHT: Nursing Program Offers More for Less Did you know that GlenOak High School offers 15 Career and Technical programs right at home on our GlenOak campus?

We value real-world experiences and field work that lead our students to paid positions in our community in the healthcare profession or to a two or four year post-secondary college nursing program. This can only be accomplished with the strong collaborative partnerships that are developed here at GlenOak High School. Our nursing students work closely with our 9th grade GlenOak STEM program and have partnerships that include Aultman College of Nursing, Aultman Foundation, Aultman Hospital, Plain Local Fire Department, Cleveland Clinic, Plain Local School Nurses, Generations Women’s Health, and Echoing Ridge Residential Care Center.

Through these partnerships, students participate in hands-on learning and skill practice and development such as vision screening and handwashing practices for Plain Local Elementary Schools, simulated lab experiences at Aultman College of Nursing, assistance with GOHS athletic teams, vitals clinics at district events, ambulance ride along observations, Aultman Hospital clinical observations, to name a few.

(L-R) Superintendent Brent May, Mrs. Fox, Ebonee Davis, Sarah Cook and Mrs. Keyser accept a certificate at RG Drage during the Northeast Ohio School Boards Association Spring Conference for participating in the OSBA Capital Conference Student Achievement Fair this fall.

GlenOak High School’s Advancement to Nursing Program is a cost-effective way for students to start a career in the health industry.

Advancement to Nursing is one of the leading Health Science programs in Stark County.

Juniors and seniors participate in an exceptional program that provides them with the knowledge, skills, credentials, and experiences to move into the Health Sciences and Nursing pathway after graduation.

Advancement to Nursing is a state approved career technical education program that incorporates Ohio Board of Nursing course standards, accreditations, and expectations of the nursing field. The program is taught by two instructors that are Master Prepared Registered Nurses: Gabrielle Keyser and Stephanie Fox. This team-teaching model allows for students to receive individual, small group, and large group instruction with performance-based assessments of learned technical nursing skills for Ohio Board of Nursing credentials.

Designed course and lab work is supported by the standards of four courses in the Nursing Pathway: Nutrition and Wellness (Anatomy and Dietary), Patient Centered Care (Basic Nursing Skills), Medical Terminology (Collegiate Medical Language), and Patient Centered Care and Diagnostic (Advanced Nursing Skills, EKG, Interpretations, and Phlebotomy). Qualifying senior students also participate in the CCP/Nursing: Professional Role through our partnership with Aultman College of Nursing. The mastery of this course work and lab performance allows students to test and receive three national certifications: Patient Care Technician, EKG Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician. In addition to these national certifications, students receive their certificates in CPR/ AED, American Heart Association Basic Life Support Provider, OSHA HealthCare Certification, American College of Surgeons - Stop the Bleed and Dietary Aides and Nursing Support Staff.

Advancement to Nursing students are members in a global student-led organization, HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America)/ Future Health Professionals, whose mission is to promote career opportunities in the health industry and to enhance leadership skills. Our GlenOak chapter has attended leadership conferences and have competed at the regional, state, and national levels. We hold four state titles in the areas of Life Support Skills, Personal Care, and Pathophysiology and 4th place in the Nation for Life Support Skills, and have been awarded the Gold Emblem Distinction. This Distinction is awarded to chapters that go above and beyond HOSA requirements and incorporates all four pillars of the HOSA platforms that include: Leadership, Career Awareness, Collaboration, and Service.

We celebrate our Advancement to Nursing instructors and students. We are excited to see what the future holds for our students and program.

Did you know that GlenOak High School offers 15 Career and Technical programs right at home on our GlenOak campus?

To learn more about the Advancement to Nursing Program or any of the Career and Technical programs at GlenOak High School contact Career Tech Director, Leigh Anne Helson at helsonl@plainlocal.org.

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ARTS SPOTLIGHT: The Little Mermaid GlenOak High School’s all-school musical, The Little Mermaid, was, indeed, an all-school endeavor! Staff from multiple departments worked alongside over 100 students to make this production a first-class event. A huge BRAVO to everyone who dedicated countless hours to make it a success!

We are so proud of all of our students who participated in this show, but want to give a shout-out to our leads who did an outstanding job!

Ariel, performed by Lindsey Yocum King Triton, performed by MJ Morgan Ship Pilot, performed by Daniel Herttna Sebastian, performed by Malcolm Morgan Prince Eric, performed by Tanner Guist Flotsam, performed by Josie Herttna Grimsby, performed by Brandon Bartos Jetsam, performed by Neveah Allman Flounder, performed by Ryleigh Dotson

Lindsey Yocum and Tanner Guist starred in the GlenOak High School production of The Little Mermaid performed February 2022.

Ursula, performed by Chloe Dotson Scuttle, performed by Kennedy McGuire Windward & Leeward, performed by Ravi Trace & Michaela Walther

P L A I N

K I D S

O F

S U M M E R

PREK-12 SUMMER LEARNING EXPERIENCES 8 camps offered free of charge! Many options include meals and transportation. Something for every grade level.

Scan to learn more and sign up!

Or visit https://bit.ly/plssummer22

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ENGAGING

IN-PERSON

ESSER Infographic What is ESSER Funding?

ESSER = Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief To address the impact that COVID-19 has had, and continues to have, on elementary and secondary schools across the nation, Congress reserved approximately $13.2 billion of the $30.75 billion allotted to the Education Stabilization Fund through the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to be awarded to state educational agencies for the purpose of providing local educational agencies with emergency relief funds. In order to receive funding, school districts were required to submit an application along with a plan outlined through 2024 to address learning gaps caused by the pandemic. Schools and school districts were awarded funding based on the percentage of total Title I funds they each received. While funds were allocated using the Title I formula, the funds have broad allowable uses.

How has ESSER Funding been used at Plain Local Schools during the 2021-2022 School Year?

By the numbers:

10

additional staff members focused on social emotional learning

Created *Beyond the Bell After School Program

18 weeks 138 594 of programming between two sessions

staff members

400

students participated

additional hours of instruction offered to participating students across grades 1-12

1,500+ 7,000

meals served

snacks provided

Exposure to new clubs, activities, topics, community partnerships and more!

Created *Math Assist Live to assist students with math homework at home

378 hours 572 students

of tutoring offered to families

have logged in and participated

Elementary Success Coaches created “Parent Café” to engage with families in district

12+ hours 90 families

of discussion

engaged in offering feedback

Facility Upgrades I nstallation of Plasma Air Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) solutions at all of the district’s buildings (9 schools, central office, bus garage and warehouse) *Numbers reflect two sessions that were offered during the 2021-2022 school year and do not include anything after the date of printing.

Questions? More information about ESSER funding, email Plain Local ESSER Administrator Brett Niarchos at niarchosb@plainlocal.org.

EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE 13

ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT: GlenOak Athletes Compete at States

Romeo Magueyal, Coach Krumlauf, Ronald Dimmerling, Brandon Batson, and Coach Hynd.

Rachel Young and Coach Hartman.

The GlenOak Wrestling program celebrates 2022 State Wrestling qualifiers, senior Ronald Dimmerling, junior Brandon Batson, and sophomore Romeo Magueyal. Ronald placed third at the state tournament and earned All-Ohio Honors. Brandon placed eighth at the state tournament and earned All-Ohio Honors. Romeo competed as an alternate after placing fifth at the district tournament. Coach Michael Hynd has taken the wrestling program to a different level during his tenure as head coach. This year’s state qualifiers are the most the program has taken to Columbus since 2005.

Congratulations to the entire Wrestling program!

The GlenOak Girls Bowling team had another successful season with senior Rachel Young once again leading the way. Rachel qualified for the second year in a row to the State Bowling tournament in Columbus by finishing third overall at the district tournament. Rachel finished in 26th place overall at the state tournament out of 203 bowlers. Rachel has signed a National Letter of Intent with Walsh University to continue her academic and athletic career.

Congratulations to Rachel.

Home

2022 BOYS LACROSSE

2022 BOYS TENNIS

Fri.

3/11/22

5:30/7:30

Home

Brunswick (SCR)

Tue.

3/15/22

5:30/7:30

Home

Orange or Poland (SCR)

Thur.

3/17/22

7:00

Home

West Geauga (SCR)

Fri.

3/18/22

5:30/7:30

Away

Kent Roosevelt

Thur.

3/31/22

5:00/7:00

Away

St. Vincent/ St. Mary

Sat.

4/02/22

2:00/4:00

Home

NCDL

Tue.

4/05/22

7:30

Home

Cleveland Heights

Thur.

4/07/22

5:30/7:30

Away

Stow Munroe Falls

Sat.

4/09/22

5:00/7:00

Away

Canfield

Tue.

4/12/22

5:30/7:30

Away

Southeast

Thur.

4/14/22

6:30

Away

Lake

Thur.

4/21/22

5:30/7:30

Home

Riverside

Sat. 4/23/22

10:00/2:00/ Home 4:00

Highland/McDowell (JV & V)

Tue.

4/26/22

5:30/7:30

Home

Wooster

Thur.

4/28/22

5:30/7:30

Away

Boardman

Sat.

4/30/22

3:00/5:00

Home

Willoughby South

Tue.

5/03/22

5:30/7:30

Away

CCC

Fri.

5/06/22

5:30/7:30

Away

Louisville

Sat.

5/07/22

2:00/4:00

Home

Revere

Mon.

5/09/22

5:30/7:30

Away

Green

Thur.

5/12/22

5:30/7:30

Away

Hoban

14 EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE

Away

Mon.

3/28/22

4:00

Home

Norton

Tue.

3/29/22

4:00

Away

Hoban

Thur.

3/31/22

4:00

Home

Dover

Mon.

4/4/22

4:00

Away

Perry

Tue.

4/5/22

4:00

Away

Massillon

Wed.

4/6/22

4:00

Home

McKinley

Thur.

4/7/22

4:00

Home

Central Catholic

Mon.

4/11/22

4:00

Away

Jackson

Tue.

4/12/22

4:00

Home

Louisville

Wed.

4/13/22

4:00

Away

Hoover

Mon.

4/18/22

4:00

Home

Lake

Tue.

4/19/22

4:00

Away

St. Vincent St. Mary

Wed.

4/20/22

4:00

Home

Green

Mon.

4/25/22

4:00

Away

Wooster

Wed.

4/27/22

4:00

Away

Orrville

Thur.

4/28/22

4:00

Away

Walsh Jesuit

Mon.

5/2/22

4:00

Away

New Philadelphia

Wed.

5/4/22

4:00

Home

Wadsworth

Thur.

5/5/22

4:00

Home

Tallmadge

All matches start @ 4:00pm unless otherwise noted.

Chris Porter, Head Coach

2022 GIRLS LACROSSE

2022 TRACK & FIELD

Mon.

3/14/22

6:00

Away

Louisville (SCR)

Sat.

3/26/22

9:00

Away

Austintown Fitch

Fri.

3/18/22

7:00

Home

Stow

Tue.

3/29/22

5:00

Home

Hoover

Mon.

3/28/22

5:30/7:00

Away

Lake

Tue.

4/5/22

5:00

Away

Jackson

4/9/22

10:00

Away

Lexington

Mon.

4/4/22

6:00

Away

Hoban

Sat.

Thur.

4/07/22

6:00

Away

Copley

Tue.

4/12/22

5:00

Away

Lake

Sat

4/16/22

9:00

Home

Golden Eagle Elite

Tue.

4/19/22

5:00

Home

Green

Sat.

4/23/22

8:00

Away

Stark County (Perry)

Tue.

4/26/22

5:00

Away

Perry

Fri.

4/29/22

4:00

Away

Perry-9th & 10th Grade

Tue.

4/12/22

6:00/7:00

Home

Louisville (Var. 1st)

Wed.

4/13/22

6:00

Away

St. Vincent St. Mary

Mon.

4/18/22

5:30/7:00

Away

Boardman

Wed.

4/20/22

6:00

Away

Louisville

Thur.

4/21/22

6:00

Away

Southeast

Mon.

4/25/22

6:00

Away

Beachwood

Thur.

4/28/22

6:00

Home

Hoover

Mon

5/02/22

6:00

Away

Laurel

Wed.

5/04/22

6:00

Home

CVCA

Thur.

5/05/22

6:00

Home

Copley (SN)

Sat.

5/07/22

TBA

Away

WRA

Mon.

5/09/22

6:00

Home

Wadsworth

Wed.

5/11/22

5:00/6:00

Away

Wooster

Tue.

5/3/22

5:00

Home

McKinley (SN)

Fri.

5/6/22

3:00

Away

Euclid Relays

Tue.

5/10/22

5:00

Home

JV Fed. Lg. Champ

Fri.

5/13/22

4:00

Away

Fed. Lg. Champ (Perry)

Wed.

5/18/22

4:00

Away

Districts (Hoover)

Fri.

5/20/22

4:00

Away

Districts (Hoover)

Wed.

5/25/22

4:00

Away

Regionals (Fitch H.S.)

Fri.

5/27/22

4:00

Away

Regionals (Fitch H.S.)

Fri./Sat.

6/3-4/22

TBA

Away

State Champs (Ohio State)

2022 BOYS VARSITY BASEBALL

2022 VARSITY SOFTBALL

Thur.

Fri. Tue. Wed. Sat. Tue. Wed. Thur.

Fri. Mon. Tue. Wed. Fri. Tue. Wed. Fri. Sat. Tue. Wed. Fri. Sat. Tue. Wed. Mon. Thur.

Sat. Tue. Wed. Fri.

Wed.

3/16/22

5:00

Home

Dalton (Scrim.)

Tue.

3/22/22

5:00

Away

Copley (Scrim.)

Tue.

3/29/22

5:00

Away

Hoover

Wed.

3/30/22

5:00

Home

Jackson

Sat.

4/2/22

1:00

Away

Elyria Catholic (@ Keystone)

3/17/22 3/18/22 3/22/22 3/23/22 3/26/22 3/29/22 3/30/22 3/31/22 4/1/22 4/4/22 4/5/22 4/6/22 4/8/22 4/12/22 4/13/22 4/15/22 4/16/22 4/19/22 4/20/22 4/22/22 4/23/22 4/26/22 4/27/22 5/2/22 5/5/22 5/7/22 5/10/22 5/11/22 5/13/22

4:30 5:30 5:00 5:00 12:00 5:00 5:00 4:30 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5.00 5:00 5:00 11:00 6:00 5:00 5:00 12:00 5:00 7:00 5:00 4:30 11:00/4:00 7:00 5:00 7:15

Away Home Away Away Away Away Home Away Away Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Home Home Away Away Away Away Home Home Away Away Home Away Home

Kent Roosevelt (S) East Canton (S) Boardman (S) Triway (S) Marlington Jackson Jackson Springfield Northwest Massillon Perry Perry Warren Howland Green Green Triway Hudson McKinley McKinley Padua Franciscan Wooster Lake Lake Massillon Alliance Louisville (W/Revere) Hoover Hoover Barberton

Sat.

4/2/22

3:00

Away

Keystone (@ Keystone)

Mon

4/4/22

5:00

Away

Massillon

Tue.

4/5/22

5:00

Home

McKinley

Wed.

4/6/22

5:00

Home

Perry

Fri.

4/8/22

5:00

Away

Austintown Fitch

Wed.

4/13/22

5:00

Away

Green

Fri.

4/15/22

5:00

Away

Louisville

Mon.

4/18/22

5:00

Home

Massillon

Tue.

4/19/22

5:00

Home

Lake

Wed.

4/20/22

5:00

Home

Hoover

Fri.

4/22/22

5:00

Away

Duhon Tourn. vs Dover

Sat. 4/23/22

10:00/ Away Duhon Tourn. vs 12:00 St. V’s/Barberton

Mon.

4/25/22

5:00

Home

Louisville

Tue.

4/26/22

5:00

Away

Jackson

Wed.

4/27/22

5:00

Away

McKinley

Thurs.

4/28/22

5:00

Home

Hoban

Tue.

5/3/22

5:00

Away

Perry

Sat.

5/7/22

12:00/2:00

Away

West Branch (DH)

Mon.

5/9/22

5:00

Away

Canfield

Tue.

5/10/22

5:00

Home

Green

Wed.

5/11/22

5:00

Away

Lake EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE 15

COMMUNITY PARTNER SPOTLIGHT: Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health Did you know that for over 10 years Plain Local Schools has hosted a monthly meet up with community organizations, area businesses and universities? These meetings are held during school months and are affectionately referred to as “Plain Partners.” The goal of the monthly Plain Partners meetings is simple, states Plain Local Schools Public Relations Director Mary Beddell, “We get together for one hour and share out what we have going on, see how we can connect and help one another.” Born out of the monthly meetings have been incredible collaboration, new ways to partner together and cross promotion of programming to help ensure our community is well informed. In each issue of Eagle Nation we hope to shine a light on one of those partnerships. Recently we caught up with Melissa Coutlas, Chief Advancement Officer for Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health.

Melissa Coutlas

Founded in 1976, Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health (C&A) is a non-profit, full service, trauma informed, mental health agency specializing in the emotional and behavioral needs of children, adolescents, young adults and their families.

Our caring team of professionals is trained to provide a wide array of therapeutic services to meet the individual needs of children and youth, all within a safe environment. C&A’s diversified professional staff includes child psychiatrists, advance practice nurses, registered nurses, psychologists, licensed professional clinical counselors, licensed independent social workers, and case managers.

C&A has four office locations serving Stark County including the Plain Campus, Downtown Canton, Alliance and Belden Village, as well as home-based services and school-based consultation.

Involvement with Plain Local Schools: Plain Local Schools is one of C&A’s eight partner schools. C&A provides school-based therapists at each school building and has a unique relationship with Plain by being located on the Plain Community Campus.

School-based therapists are in schools to help with the emotional and behavioral needs of students, parents, teachers and the community. School-based treatment and consultation has been in existence for more than 20 years in Stark County and is a convenient option for many families.

C&A also partners with the district on Stark County Schools Mental Health Awareness Week. This week brings Stark County school districts together during Mental Health Month in May to promote positive mental health to more than 50,000 students. During the week, C&A highlights GlenOak High School’s Mental Health Champions. These student champions created a unity video along with 27 other High School champions from across Stark County, and 30 self-care video tips to share with their peers and their school districts on C&A’s social media platform. Hearing a message from a peer who is facing similar circumstances and struggles is a powerful message. The singular unifying message to all Stark County students is you are not alone.

The week also incorporates age-appropriate messages at each level, from posters hanging

in the schools, morning announcements and positive JPEG images for middle and high school students. The campaign focuses on peer-to-peer messaging and positive mental health tips to bring awareness and continue to break down the stigma around mental health.

What is one thing your organization is proud of that has come out of the last two years and the COVID pandemic?

What is your favorite part of your job?

C&A has worked hard to further our relationships within the community and strengthen our partnerships. This forwardthinking approach has allowed us to become creative in the middle of a national clinician shortage, diversify our services and continue to provide much needed support to the community. In addition, we have continued to provide tip sheets from our expert clinicians to parents and teachers throughout the past two years to help them with different issues that may have come up due to the pandemic.

Simply the chance it has to make such an impact on youth. These kiddos are our future.

I love being able to think every day about how we might be able to make a positive difference in their lives.

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Plain Township community?

The strong relationship we have with the community and being available right on campus.

If you could share one piece of advice to Plain Local students, what would it be?

What is one thing you wish people knew about your organization or something most people don’t know?

You are not alone and there are people who are here for you and who care about you.

C&A serves more than 4,400 children and adolescents each year and has clinicians in more than 50 school buildings. This year, the need has increased for adolescents seeking services for stress and anxiety.

C&A is proud to be a partner of Plain Local Schools. We look forward to continuing to grow our relationship and look for ways to serve even more children and youth.

Final thoughts or anything else you would like to share?

At the time of this publication Melissa Coutlas has accepted a new position with the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.

16 EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE

GLENOAK PARTNERS with the City of Canton Plain Local Schools Director of Equity and Inclusiveness, Victoria Newkirk, partnered with Rachel Forchione, the Deputy Director of Canton City Civil Service Commission, to help introduce students to civil service jobs as viable careers. In early 2022, Forchione provided job readiness training to students who have expressed that they are seeking internships during college or have decided to join the workforce right after high school. The training included resume building, proper dress for the workplace, and the ever-evolving topic of personal social media activities while pursuing employment. The event was so well received that Newkirk and Forchione decided to invite 13 City of Canton civil departments to attend a Canton Career Exhibition job fair at GlenOak High School. The job fair event held on March 18, 2022, included Building/Code Enforcement, Dispatching, Fire, Police,

Health, Department of Motor Vehicles, Information Technology, Parks and Recreation, Sanitation, Street, Water, Sewer, and Engineering Departments. Over 60 students participated in the event and established invaluable connections with the professionals in the community.

The partnership between Plain Local Schools and the Civil Service Departments will continue in May of this year. The plan is to engage with students through lunch and learn events where they will have the opportunity to write resumes during their lunch period. Newkirk believes that partnerships like these are imperative in linking arms with all aspects of the community to invest in students. For more information email Victoria Newkirk at newkirkv@plainlocal.org.

Over a dozen City of Canton Civil Departments gather at GlenOak High School for a career fair.

Preschool – High School

Math and Reading Program

To learn more,

schedule a FREE orientation today!

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Give your child an academic advantage in school and beyond. Enroll today.

Kumon Math and Reading Center of North Canton 1214 South Main Street North Canton, OH 44720 | 330-492-4516

Proudly serving Stark County since 1992 ©2022 Kumon North America Inc. All rights reserved.

EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE 17

Mental Health Awareness

Submitted by Dan Mucci, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. To celebrate this month, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health is working with 14 school districts to present Stark County Schools Mental Health Awareness Week, May 2-6.

Worried about market volatility?

Let’s talk.

Working with our community partners AultCare, Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery, Kent State University – Stark, State Farm Agent Michael Dougan, Q-92 and CommQuest Services, this week provides positive messaging for students in all grades – PreK to 12th grade.

Throughout the week, students will view peer-to-peer messaging videos on self-care, a unity video created by students from 14 Stark County high schools, receive a message from Ohio State Football Coach Ryan Day, and receive mood changing pencils and erasable bookmarks for students to write positive affirmations.

This campaign provides students with powerful messages and tools to help incorporate positive mental health into their daily lives. Here are a few tips that families can use yearround to make sure each family member is staying mentally fit: • Exercise – take a walk or ride your bike on one of Plain Township’s parks or a Stark Parks trail. Other exercise could include yoga, weightlifting, kayaking or tossing a ball.

• Listen to music – a great tool to reduce anxiety, blood pressure and pain while improving your sleep quality, mood and mental alertness.

• Eat Healthy – Healthy snacks include fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans and lentils.

• Get plenty of sleep – this helps boost your immune system, prevents you from gaining weight and strengthens your heart.

• Socialize – as more restrictions are eased, plan get togethers with family and friends.

Take the first step in improving your mental health by incorporating one of these pillars into your life. Working on this together as a family will be an added benefit, which includes spending quality time together.

For more information on positive mental health strategies, contact C&A at 330.433.6075.

Hidden Historic Homes

Submitted by: Cindy Guest, Plain Township Historical Society Join us as we explore historic homes in Plain Township. This historic home used to be visible from Martindale Rd. near Lattavo St. The home was built in 1936 in Section 27 SW Quarter by Chandis Harold “Shack” Brauchler. It is a 1.5 story home with a separate apartment which at one time was used for the caretaker. Several additions were put on to make this home over 4,000 sq ft and shape its footprint.

Molly Shreffler Financial Advisor

330-433-1095

Molly.Shreffler@edwardjones.com

6531 Market Ave N Suite #100 Canton, OH 44721

This property has an interesting previous owner. Charles Martin purchased the 78.14 acres in 1871. Charles was the father of William Henry Martin who was a pioneer in aviation with his “Martin Glider.” The property passed from Charles Martin to his children Mary Martin Houser and William Henry Martin to Mary’s son, Charles Houser. In 1936, Chandis purchased 10 acres with frontage on Martindale Rd. After his death in 1987, the property was subdivided for single family housing at which time the address changed from Martindale to Rowland.

Chandis (1900-1987) was the son of Charles Augustus (1867-1963) and Viola Claire [Lichtenwalter] (1868-1949) Brauchler. Charles was one of the founders of Canton Drop Forging in 1904. Chandis held several positions there over his lifetime until the company was sold to Cordier Group in 1981. Shack was very active in community civic activities and traveled extensively. He never married.

2022 Free Meeting Schedule Location: Plain Township Hall 2600 Easton St NE from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm unless otherwise noted.

Monday, May 16th – Topic: TBD – Richard Haldi Monday, June 20th – Covered Dish Picnic – Veterans Park 5-8 pm Wednesday, June 15th – McDonald’s Fundraiser 4-8 pm

Plain Township Historical Society Contact: Member SIPC

18 EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE

Email: preservingplaintwp@gmail.com | Facebook: Facebook.com/PlainTownshipHistoricalSociety Website: preservingplaintwp.org | Phone: 330-224-2660

EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE 19

Second Saturdays Coming to Oakwood Square

Spring Has Sprung In Your Plain Township Parks

Save the dates for the 2022 Sidestreet Markets “Saturdays at the Square” on May 14th, June 11th, Sept 10th, Oct 8th, with the August event TBD. The 720 Market presents its Side Street Markets in partnership with Oakwood Square Plaza and Plain Township. The market runs from 10:00AM-3:00PM at the Oakwood Square Plaza and will feature a variety of rotating vendors, food trucks, crafts, and local goods. Entertainment will also have a local flare.

Spring has arrived at YOUR Plain Township Parks. The new yearround, full flush restroom facility made possible by a State Capital Budget Grant, championed by Senator Kirk Schuring has opened at Diamond Park by the ball fields. No levy dollars went to the construction of the restroom and park patrons can access the facility daily.

Each Saturday at the Square offers a unique theme. May will feature a Home and Garden focus.

For more information on Second Saturdays at Oakwood Square, visit 720market.com or on Instagram and Facebook @ SIDESTREETMKTS .

The dog park at Veterans Park, closed for annual maintenance, is tentatively scheduled to open the first week of May, weather depending. The splash pad at Veterans Park will open Memorial Day weekend and be open to the public at large daily through Labor Day from 10:00AM-7:00PM. Reservations for shelters can be made by visiting https://apm.activecommunities. com/plaintownship/Home or scanning the QR code. Get out and enjoy all that YOUR Plain Township Parks have to offer!

20 EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE

PLAIN LOCAL SCHOOLS Foundation and Alumni Association The Plain Local Schools Foundation was started to help ensure quality educational experiences by serving as a receptacle for special private gifts and funds on behalf of Plain Local Schools. Funds have been established to benefit innovative programs across all disciplines of education.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Amanda Kloots

Amanda Kloots is an American television personality, dancer, and fitness instructor. She graduated from GlenOak High School in 2000.

What are some of your favorite memories while at Plain Local?

Definitely the GlenOak choral department! Being a part of the choir was the highlight of high school for me.

Favorite teacher(s) at Plain Local?

Mr. Kieffer, Mary Meese and Mr. Smith

What have you been up to lately?

I just finished the Dancing With the Stars national tour and am back to work co-hosting The Talk!

What are some of your biggest accomplishments?

NOMINATIONS OPEN NOW FOR Hall of Distinction

Musician Alex Kopp, a 2008 GlenOak High School graduate, accepted his Hall of Distinction Award in 2021.

You are invited to the Plain Local Schools Foundation & Alumni Association Hall of Distinction Induction Ceremony to be held on Thursday, September 22, 2022 at the Hall of Fame Village.

Since 1997, we have honored alumni from all walks of life who have distinguished themselves in community contribution, professional accomplishment, education, political leadership, athletics, and humanitarian contributions. This ceremony includes a cocktail hour/ dinner, performances, and speeches by each of the inductees. It is a wonderful evening of inspirational moments that everyone is welcome to attend. For more information about the event, e-mail: foundation@plainlocal.org.

We are seeking nominees for the Hall of Distinction for 2022. Do you know of a deserving alumnus from Glenwood, Oakwood, or GlenOak, or someone who has made a significant contribution to our community? Go to: www.plainfoundation.com and click on Alumni Association and then Hall of Distinction to nominate them. Please join us in helping us honor the many fine people who have gone on to become wonderful examples of what our district stands for.

I think writing my memoir and making number two on the New York Times Bestseller list was one of my biggest accomplishments.

What were some of your biggest lessons learned at Plain Local?

Thank you, Teachers!

Work hard, do what you love!

Did you know Teacher Appreciation Week was May 2-6, 2022? Help us thank our teachers!

What advice would you give to high school students today?

Try everything! Don’t limit yourself because life is full of opportunities and you want to be as open to everything as possible!

Scan the QR code or visit our website at http://plainfoundation.com/thank-ateacher for more information on how you can get involved!

EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE 21

When it’s time to buy or sell a home, your friends will tell you

“Call Denise!”

Denise has been a leader in the Plain Township market for

18 Years!

Denise Evans ABR, CSP, SRES, REALTOR® Pl a i n Town s h i p’s #1 I n d i v i d u a l R e a l to r

OAR President’s Sales Club Award Recipient 2004-2021

CELL: 330.575.1832 | DEvans@CutlerHomes.com THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO BE A SELLER. Are you interested in seeing what your home’s value is? Visit:

WhatsMyHomeWorthDenise.com for your free Market Analysis!

THE EVANS FAMILY ARE PROUD SUPPORTERS AND RESIDENTS OF OUR WONDERFUL COMMUNITY IN PLAIN! 22 EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE

BOARD OF EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT: Jennifer Fitzsimmons to make sure that I do what is best for the district so I have really been reading and learning.

Jennifer L. Fitzsimmons lives in Plain Township with her husband, Brian Fitzsimmons, and two children. She has a daughter, Lindy, who is a senior at GlenOak High School and a son, Noah, who is in the 8th grade at Oakwood Middle School.

Get to know the newest member of the Plain Local Schools Board of Education. We sat down with newly elected Jennifer L. Fitzsimmons to ask her about her new role and to get to know her a little better.

How long have you served on the Plain Local Schools Board of Education?

3 months

What is your favorite thing about serving on the Plain Local Schools Board of Education?

Currently, I am in the learning phase. So my favorite thing is that I seem to learn something new every day. Some days I learn about board duties and some days I learn more about the community I represent. It has been an exciting and busy few months.

What is the most difficult part of serving on the Plain Local Schools Board of Education?

So far the most difficult part has been to try the learn all I can in a short period of time. The Board has a lot of responsibilities and I want

What is something someone reading this may not know about you?

I would say that people may not know that I was a Criminal Prosecutor for over 20 years for the Canton City Prosecutor Office.

What is your favorite hobby?

I love to craft. I have a room full of craft supplies like cricut cutting machines and embroidery machines and various craft supplies. It is my happy place.

What is your favorite restaurant in Plain Township? What is your favorite way to spend a Sunday afternoon?

I love the Bistro at Oakwood. Great food, drinks and people.

What is your advice to students in Plain Local?

Everyone follows a different path so find your path and follow it. You are good enough for whatever life has in store for you and if you believe in yourself you will be successful in whatever path you choose.

Final thoughts or anything else you would like to share?

I feel blessed to be able to give back to the community I grew up in.

Check back in the next issue as we continue to shine a light on the work of our school board!

PLAIN LOCAL SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION Meeting Dates 2022 Board of Education Meeting Dates • June 8, 2022, 6:30 pm, Plain Local Schools Administration Office • *June 29, 2022, 7:00 am, Plain Local Schools Administration Office • July 20, 2022, 6:30 pm, Plain Local Schools Administration Office • August 17, 2022, 7:00 am, Plain Local Schools Administration Office • September 21, 2022, 6:30 pm, TBD • October 19, 2022, 6:30 pm, TBD • November 16, 2022, 6:30 pm, TBD • December 21, 2022, 6:30 pm, TBD

Back row: Dr. Ambrose Perduk Jr. (Member, Term: 2022-2025), John W. Halkias (President, Term: 2022-2025), Eugene M. Cazantzes (Vice President, Term: 2020-2023) Front row: Jennifer L. Fitzsimmons (Member, Term: 2022-2025), Monica Rose Gwin (Member, Term: 2020-2023) EAGLE NATION MAGAZINE 23

901 44th Street NW Canton, Ohio 44709

2022-2023 Important Dates The 2022-2023 school year is right around the corner, save these important dates when planning for next year!

August 19 Transition Day-Grades 5th, 7th, and 9th

January 13 In-Service No School Students

August 22 First Day All students (Except Kindergarten)

January 16 No School Staff/Students

August 25 Kindergarten Begins Last Names A-L

February 17 In-Service No School Students

August 26 Kindergarten Begins Last Names M-Z

February 20 No School Staff/Students

September 5 No School Staff/Students

March 20-24 Spring Break

October 10 No School

March 27 In-Service No School Students

October 28 In-Service No School Students

April 7 No School Staff/Students

November 23-28 Thanksgiving Break

May 23 Class of 2023 Graduation

December 22-January 3 Winter Break

May 25 Last Day of School

Class of 2022 Commencement Save the Date Class of 2022 will Graduate on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at 7pm in Bob Commings Field at GlenOak High School.

Each graduate will receive 10 graduation tickets. Tickets will be picked up by the student in their academy office in May.