November 2020 Plain Paper

PLAIN PAPER

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID CANTON, OH PERMIT NO. 2083

Plain Local School District Administration Building 901 44th St. NW Canton, OH 44709

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Items & Issues for Our Community from Our Community

VOLUME 13 NUMBER 5

NOVEMBER, 2020

GOLDEN EAGLE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

VIRTUAL Athletic Auction The Golden Eagle Athletic Association is hosting a Virtual Auction! Help support athletics in Plain Local for this one-of-a-kind fundraiser! Simply visit bit.ly/geaavirtualauction to view the items that are up for grabs!

The auction will take place from November 17-November 22. More information on page 24 Dear Community, We did it TOGETHER! Thank you for your support and encouragement as we started a school year that was ever-changing and emotional. The Plain Local community is made up of champions, and the entire school district and staff are thankful for you!

This edition is packed with stories of amazing examples of excellence in Plain Local. Even though we are facing unprecedented times, the staff remains committed to delivering a personalized education for every child in the district. This paper also highlights numerous partnerships in the community that enhance the experience for our students. We are thankful for many local agencies and businesses that have partnered with the school district. Thank you!

As we enter the winter season, I want to remind everyone that we cannot let our guard down with our precautions to combat COVID-19. Below are a few friendly reminders that will ensure we continue to keep our students, staff, and community safe and school open during the winter season.

• Wear a mask at all times, including the bus. Students should always have a mask on unless directed by school personnel. This is our biggest defense with COVID-19. Personal actions have a huge impact on the entire school community.

• Continue to wash hands on a regular basis. Students should use hand sanitizer when they enter and exit any classroom.

• Maintain social distance as much as possible. Large gatherings in any school are not recommended at this time.

• Remain at home if you are not feeling well. I realize this is difficult for families, but caution is the best practice during this pandemic.

• Follow the advice from the Stark County Health Department and the Canton City Public Health Department.

• Participate in contact tracing if you are contacted by the health department.

This is an important process that protects other families and staff members.

• Remain at home if any member of your household is being tested for COVID-19. This is important to contain the virus in our schools.

• Ask questions at any time. The district has medical personnel that will be happy to talk and discuss any scenario with you. We are here to serve you.

We can do this as one community working together. You have done a great job so far, and I don’t want to take a step backward. It is important to keep our schools open and maintain consistency for our students. Thank you, and Go Eagles!

IN THIS ISSUE CHAMPION SPOTLIGHT PAGE 2 FALL SPORTS RECAPS PAGES 9-11 SPIRIT SHOP HOURS PAGE 13 FREE MEALS FOR STUDENTS PAGE 14 ATHLETIC AUCTION PAGE 24

SOCIAL MEDIA WHERE TO FIND US!

Brent May, Superintendent

facebook.com/ @PlainLocal @PlainLocalSchools @PlainLocal plainlocalschools @eagletweets14

www.plainlocal.org

CHAMPIONS IN THE COMMUNITY

Plain Local would like to give special recognition to the individuals, groups, teams, and businesses that are champions in our school and community! It has been a difficult road for our community during the global pandemic, but we know that the Plain Local Schools community is going to get through it #together.

Tommy Rice: GlenOak High School Sophomore Tommy Rice finished runner-up at the 2020 NEO Regional XC Championship on October 31 to qualify for the State XC Championship for the second straight year! Tommy finished the State Meet in 28th place overall which earned him All-Ohio honors for the second year in a row.

Amber Bossart and Carmyn Grubbs: Congratulations to Amber Bossart and Carmyn Grubbs, who were GlenOak’s two nominees for the 2020 Ira Turpin Scholar Program. This prestigious honor is awarded to students based on their scholarship, school attendance, extracurricular activity, and school and community citizenship. An additional congratulations to Carmyn, as she was selected as one of Stark County’s three scholarship recipients! She will be awarded a $500 scholarship to the university of her choice.

Stacey Hamilton: Food Service Director Jennifer Rex shared, “Stacey is the head cook at Glenwood Intermediate School. She absolutely loves her students. You can see it in her face every time she interacts with one of her students; her face just lights up. She will go above and beyond to create new menu items the kids might like, find fun and creative ways to make meals more appealing. She is a great leader to her team, and she represents the food service department with great pride. I am so proud of her!” Thank you for all you do, Stacey!

Molly Shear: Here is what Glenwood Intermediate Principal Brett Niarchos shared about Molly Shear. “Molly is an Intervention Specialist at Glenwood Intermediate School. Molly is entering her 19th year as a teacher, all in the Plain Local District, with the last four years running the ID unit at GWIS. Mrs. Shear’s compassion and dedication to her students is second to none. Mrs. Shear has an inherent ability not only to educate her students but to simultaneously instill leadership skills as well as many positive characteristics to her students. Mrs. Shear’s greatest attribute is her ability to provide a voice for her students. Molly, Glenwood appreciates you and all that you bring every day. You are a true champion. Thank you.”

Thank you for all of your hard work, Mrs. Shear!

Ed Clarke: Here is what Middlebranch Principal JR Easterling shared about Head Custodian, Ed Clarke. “Mr. Clarke can be seen taking on multiple roles. Not only does he and the rest of our custodial crew keep Middlebranch looking great, but he is often seen talking with students making them all feel welcome. Mr. Clarke is often out at student drop off in the morning greeting families as they arrive. This personal touch is all part of what makes Middlebranch a wonderful place. Thank you, Mr. Clarke, for everything you do!”

Maggie O’Brian and Jessy Tsoufiou: Soroptimist International of Canton/Stark County honored Maggie O’Brian and Jessy Tsoufiou as recipients of the Ruby Award for Women Helping Women during the Celebration of Women Awards Ceremony, which was held virtually. The organization recognizes women who, through their professional and personal efforts, make extraordinary differences in the lives of women and girls. Ms. O’Brian and Mrs. Tsoufiou were recognized for founding and continuing to build the Fierce Females program.

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AVONDALE GIRLS ARE FIERCE! Avondale Elementary is excited to begin a chapter of Fierce Females for this school year. Young ladies in fourth grade were invited to join this group which will meet monthly. The motto of the group will be to encourage and empower these students to “seek knowledge through education, lead others by example, and make a meaningful difference in the community through love and support.”

Fierce Females began at Frazer Elementary during the 2018-2019 school year. Avondale teachers Julie Mongiardo, Amy DePew, Abby Messner, and Jessica Lauer collaborated with the Frazer teachers to begin an Avondale chapter.

For their first activity, the Fierce Females designed magazine covers with positive images of themselves. These covers are on display in the hallway at Avondale.

The Avondale Fierce Females are looking forward to showcasing their mission of Learn, Lead, and Love. Pictured left to right (Back Row) - Liza, Amanda, Aubree, Aryianna, Rebecca, Miley (Front Row) - Clarissa, Hazel.

Each monthly meeting will consist of guest speakers (mostly virtual) and a service project. For the October meeting, the group learned how Plain Local Schools Communications Director, Mary Beddell, began a nonprofit organization (Josette Beddell Memorial Foundation) to support women with breast cancer. The Fierce Females followed up the talk by making encouraging cards for local women who are battling breast cancer. Looking ahead, the young women of Fierce Females will also hear from local women who are healthcare workers and law enforcement officers.

Fourth grade teacher Julie Mongiardo shared, “We really wanted to bring this program to Avondale to provide an opportunity for our young ladies to develop confidence and leadership skills. We hope to create opportunities for our Fierce Females to do good work in the community, while at the same time developing and maintaining positive self-images and healthy relationships.”

Stay tuned to see how these young leaders make an impact on their community.

TWINNING!

Mrs. Lauer and her friends from Avondale Elementary showed off their flannel for Spirit Week! Every school in the district got in on the fun of GlenOak High School’s Spirit Week at the end of October. We loved seeing all of the photos from our community with students and staff participating.

BARR STUDENTS SHARE THEIR LOVE OF READING Barr students show off their recent projects after reading Because of Winn-Dixie.

Mrs. Frederick’s 4th grade Language Arts class at Barr Elementary did a novel study of Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. The class read this Newbery Honor book to study character traits, theme, plot events, and summarizing. Throughout the novel, the class enjoyed the humor in the book as well as the discussion of deeper themes about friendship and overcoming heartache in life. As a culminating project, students were able to choose from a menu board of options with choices that included artistic representations, research, and technology, allowing them to pick an option that matched their interests. Students were then able to present their projects that included informative slide shows, detailed dioramas, redesigned book covers, helpful water safety posters, and “how to” lists for taking care of dogs.

It was great to see the creative side of each student in the class, as each student shared their proJect.

Andrew Rocco

Decla Laux

Alexis Whaley

Olvin Rodriguez

Demetrio Bautista-Jones

www.plainlocal.org

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FRAZER STUDENTS PARTNER WITH STARK PARKS First graders at Frazer Elementary have been making community connections and exploring their environment to enhance learning, even in the midst of a pandemic!

Earlier in the year, while reading and learning about birds, Stark Parks brought two owls to Frazer. Students were able to meet Ramsay, a barred owl, and Oliver, a screech owl, through their classroom windows. The students also made bird feeders to distribute on our school grounds. A naturalist from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources presented to students via Google Meet to discuss various bird beaks and how they are designed specifically for what that bird eats.

At the end of October, first graders studied all kinds of creepy things! By reading, singing and watching, the students learned about bats. They also learned about spiders by reading, going on a spider hunt, comparing spiders to insects and making spider snacks.

Stark Parks got creative during our time with no visitors at the school. Students got to see owls through their classroom window!

Students got to learn even more about animals when Dr. Auer, a veterinarian from the Uniontown Veterinary Clinic, visited virtually to teach students about her job, animal diagnoses and x-rays. Students got to see actual animal x-rays! Thanks to Stark Parks and their virtual field trips, students got to learn about animal adaptations. Throughout the remainder of the school year, students will continue learning about animals, specifically cows. Through Discover Dairy, they have adopted a cow. They’ll get regular emails with updates about their cow and will be attending a class webinar and virtually visiting a farm.

MIDDLEBRANCH STUDENTS GIVE THANKS

Mrs. Powell and Mrs. Rocca’s third grade students at Middlebranch Elementary have a lot to be thankful for this year! After taking their state issued tests this fall, students crafted paper turkeys to express what they are thankful for. Students were thankful for a variety of items, but the most common ones were family, friends, school, shelter, and health. After students created their turkeys, they read the book The Great Thanksgiving Escape by Mark Fearing. The book is about two school ages kids that are stuck hanging out with their baby cousins. They want to escape to the swing set yet were stuck on an adventure as they navigate through their Thanksgiving family festivities. Just like the two main characters in the book, the students made an escape plan of their own. The Middlebranch third graders created blueprints of their homes while utilizing writing standards to write out their escape plans. After all plans were finalized, students presented their plans and turkeys to the class.

PUMPKIN PATCH Since kindergarteners were unable to go to Kingsway Pumpkin Farm this year, the Middlebranch Elementary PTO helped bring it to them in a small way. On October 27, kindergarten students had their own Middlebranch pumpkin patch at school.

Thanks to the donation from the Middlebranch PTO, every kindergarten student got to take their very own pumpkin home!

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THE EVANS FAMILY ARE PROUD SUPPORTERS AND RESIDENTS OF OUR WONDERFUL COMMUNITY IN PLAIN! PLAIN STRONG: WE ARE PLAIN STRONG! Thank you to our generous community partners that made it possible for every Plain Local student to receive their own Plain Strong t-shirt!

Special thank you to our donors: Warstler Brothers Landscaping, ALCO, Liquid Custom Apparel, and the Joseph A. Jeffries Company.

www.plainlocal.org

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TURNING LEMONS INTO LEMONADE AT WARSTLER Mrs. Shrock, the 3/4 blended teacher at Warstler Elementary, has taken a familiar phrase and put a twist on it. At the start of the school year, Mrs. Shrock’s class started out in the Library instead of her normal classroom. She took this opportunity to teach students that we can take any situation and turn it around in a positive manner. The theme for her class throughout the entire school year is seeing the positive in any situation.

Mrs. Shrock emphasized that in order to make lemonade out of lemons, it takes some effort on our part. Most importantly, it takes some sweetness and kindness for the recipe to be perfect!

Students at Warstler Elementary and across the district continue to be highlighted for their efforts to be a champion at school!

This is as important as ever for Mrs. Shrock and her class. She recently recognized Clark W. who used his creative talents to make a piece of motivational artwork for their class. We love the positivity even in uncertain times that is all around us!

Warstler Elementary student Clark W. is recognized by his teacher for being a champion.

TAFT STUDENTS VISIT KNOPICK’S KITCHEN Mrs. Knopick’s Kindergarten class transformed into a “restaurant” for her students.

The students in Mrs. Knopick’s Kindergarten class at Taft Elementary were amazed as they entered a transformed classroom that closely resembled a restaurant called Mrs. Knopick’s Kitchen. Each desk was covered in a red gingham tablecloth with restaurant décor hanging around the room. Mrs. Knopick, the executive chef, had everything the junior chefs needed to be successful in the kitchen. The students fit the part of junior chefs, wearing chef hats, aprons, and a strong desire to learn in such a fun and creative atmosphere. Chef Knopick started the lesson by blending reading ingredients together to make words. The students mixed up a four-course meal, beginning with french fries, using a family flipbook. Next up, they made chicken nuggets with a family match, and then pizza with family word building. The cherry on top was the final course when the students mixed up sweet popcorn sight words. The students did so well; they were all named Chef de Cuisine of Knopick’s Kitchen.

We can’t wait to see what our little learners mix up next!

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FULL STEAM AHEAD AT GLENWOOD!

Students pictured left to right are: Tim Owens, Riley Sing, Christian Alstor, Chase Ramsey, Emmanuel Neira, Ricardo Martinez, Kayleigh Worley, Ni’Shyia Wright, and Alivia Jones

This school year may look different, but one thing remains the same; high energy and high engagement lessons in the STEAM lab at Glenwood Intermediate School! STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Students in fifth and sixth grade dove in headfirst to tackle real-world problems this school year. STEAM teacher Amanda Arway shared, “I had to switch my thinking to prepare for this year’s engineering challenges. This is exactly why I always try to instill in my students that there isn’t only one way to solve a problem.” Glenwood had to move away from group work and shared materials as we continue to remain as cautious as possible to combat COVID-19. These challenges didn’t stop students from designing prototypes and building with individual supplies!

Sixth graders designed arcade games and hurricane-proof structures. Fifth graders studied gravity and flying things by designing and building helicopters and kites. Mrs. Arway added, “I’m so happy with the way the students responded to the changes. We are focusing on the positive and choosing to help out wherever we can.” Students are looking ahead and excited about 3D printing keychains later in the school year. They are planning to print one for themselves and one to send to an essential healthcare worker.

OAKWOOD STUDENTS ASK, “WHAT IF?”

Seventh grade students from Oakwood Middle School are taking on the challenge to help others in their community—even during a pandemic. Despite the challenges presented, Zach Marzilli, a Historical Literacy teacher from Oakwood, and Patrick Gerber, a community partner from TomTod Ideas, are working together to give students the chance to explore and launch student-initiated ideas.

This year, in all of Oakwood’s Historical Literacy classes, students are learning about their community and imagining new ways to make it better by addressing challenges with TomTod Ideas, a local nonprofit that empowers middle schoolers.

Mr. Marzilli shared, “‘What If 101’ is a great opportunity for students to become involved in their community and truly have a voice that can spark change. From a social studies and educational perspective, this is a perfect way to teach students the importance of being involved citizens while also teaching them real-life skills that they can carry with them for years.”

In this year-long project, every seventh grader at Oakwood Middle School will explore the strengths and challenges of their community and then respond with ideas that connect to their discoveries. “You can really see how much middle schoolers care about their community when they are empowered to run with their ideas,” said Patrick Gerber, Adventure Curator from TomTod.

Drivers’ Ed – GlenOak High School

After school Drivers’ Ed classes are postponed for Fall 2020

National Driver Training School-Ohio is offering online Drivers’ Ed courses for students wanting to start Drivers’ Ed now. Course options and enrollment at:

www.NationalDriverTrainingOhio.com Phone: 330 430-9500 NationalDriversEd@gmail.com

www.plainlocal.org

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GLENOAK STUDENTS AMONG TOP BUSINESS STUDENTS IN THE COUNTRY

Seven students at GlenOak High School scored among the top business students nationwide on rigorous exams to test their business knowledge. The exams are part of the school’s High School of Business™ program, a national accelerated business administration program of MBA Research and Curriculum Center. Approximately 6,000 students from across the nation participated in the program during the 2019-20 school year.

Receiving top scores were: Jacob Harms, Roman Shaheen, Isaac Sommers, Max Koske, Calla Theodore, Andrew Arway, and Madelon McCort.

Students participating in High School of Business™ complete real, hands-on business projects through a series of six courses. The program also includes observational internships, opportunities to earn college credit, and local oversight via a steering team of college faculty, business professionals, and school personnel.

High School of Business™ is a program of MBA Research, a nonprofit organization specializing in educational research and the development of business and marketing curriculum for high schools and colleges across the U.S. The accelerated program is designed for college-bound students with an interest in business administration careers, such as marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, or management. For more information about the national organization, visit www.MBAResearch.org/HSB.

JAZZ ON THE PIAZZA

The cool sounds of hot jazz could be heard from the GlenOak High School Piazza on the beautiful fall evening of Thursday, October 22. Students from the GlenOak High School instrumental and vocal jazz programs presented their first performances of the school year. Under the direction of Mary Meese, the Notables were excited to have their first live performance of the year and sang beautifully. The GlenOak High School Men’s Ensemble and Drifter vocal jazz ensembles, directed by Brian Kieffer, each performed a set of selections that thrilled the appreciative audience.

GLENOAK STUDENTS SHOW APPRECIATION TO VETERANS

Plain Township held its 6th annual salute to Veterans event on Wednesday, November 11, 2020. In recognition of this, GlenOak High School STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) students wrote thank you letters that were distributed to the veterans in attendance. In addition to the letters, there is a committee of STEM students working with Township Trustee Scott Haws on designing and planning the future Purple Heart monument that will be erected in Veterans Park.

This is the 6th year that the High School STEM community has worked with Mr. Haws on the planning of Veterans Park. Past STEM students helped plan and design the present monument and surrounding benches.

WI-FI EXPANSION Thanks to assistance from the Broadband Connectivity grant, Plain Local Schools will be expanding our wireless internet options for students to all district parking lots. Technology Director Jason Patterson shared, “This expansion will give access to Wi-Fi to Plain Local staff and students on district owned devices.” Patterson and his team in the technology department are starting to work on getting the wireless access points up so that our families will soon be able to take advantage of the expanded wireless internet.

On July 28, 2020, Lt. Governor of Ohio Jon Husted shared the state’s plan to expand broadband services in Ohio. The Lt. Governor announced that the state set aside $50 million of state funding through the federal CARES Act to provide hotspots and internet-enabled devices to students.

Be on the lookout for more information coming soon.

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FALL SPORTS RECAPS

During a truly unprecedented season, we want to thank all of our fall sports, coaches, players, and fans for keeping everyone safe.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

last was very evident in the Federal League Championship meet, where every girl ran a season-best time.

BOYS SOCCER

Head Coach: Bryan Krosse Assistant Coaches: Minh McNenny, Zac Hawkins and Mark Mazzaferri Record: 117-21 Federal League Record: 6-0 Team Accomplishments: Stark County Runner-Up, Federal League Champions, Regional Qualifiers

Head Coach: Noah Dockus Assistant Coaches: Rick VanDorsten, Nate Rininger and Bob Boron Record: 8-6-4 Federal League Record: 1-3-2

Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: Have not been finalized at the time of publication.

Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: 1st Team Federal League: Sebastian Melendez, 2nd Team Federal League: Silas Kadlecek.

Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: The team consisted of 54 amazing athletes that grew into a very close knit family. The freshmen class is one of the most talented in the history of the program, and we had a sophomore (Tommy Rice) break a 17-year-old school record (15:39) with a new record of 15:22. It was an awesome season in the midst of a global pandemic.

Honorable Mention: Gavin Parr, Josiah Foster

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: The boys soccer team finished with a record of 8-6-4, marking the 10th season in the last 13 years with a winning record.

The team was lead by 16 seniors that included captains Sebastian Melendez, Sam Bosworth, Gavin Parr, and Michael Landis. The leading goal scorer this year was junior newcomer Silas Kadlecek, who scored six goals and also led the team with four assists. The season was highlighted by their exciting overtime victory over Nordonia in the playoffs. Sam Bosworth scored a goal with 10 seconds left in the first OT to win 1-0. This was the 11th season out of the last 13 that the boys have won at least one playoff game.

GIRLS SOCCER

Head Coach: Scott Ferrell Assistant Coaches: Beth Winkler and Annie Zaremba Federal League Record: 5th place Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: Makayla Spoon (12) - 2nd Team All-Fed. Lg.; Caris Lantz (11), Nora Salem (9), Alea Zelle (12), Jocelyn Boone (12) - Honorable Mention All-Federal League.

Head Coach: Brent Walker

Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: This was a season where a ton of learning took place. The amount of improvement that took place from the first meet to the

Federal League Record: 3-2-1

Assistant Coaches: Nic Ugrin and Abby Palombo Record: 8-5-2 Continued

www.plainlocal.org

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FALL SPORTS RECAPS Continued

Team Accomplishments: Beating Fitch and Green for the first time and being Ranked in the top 15 in state polls for two weeks in a row early on in the season after going 3-0 and 5-0.

Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: Federal League 1st Team Sophie Burchfield and Maya Burlingame

Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: Trying to build the program from the youth program all the way up has been challenging during this pandemic year.

We will get through this and rise again. We are looking forward to getting back into the weight room.

VOLLEYBALL

Federal League 2nd Team Hannah Burchfield Federal League Honorable Mention Lauren Carter and Kaitlyn Brittain Stark County 1st Team Sophie Burchfield and Maya Burlingame Stark County 2nd Team Lauren Carter, Hannah Burchfield and Kaitlyn Brittain Stark County Honorable Mention Rianna Schweikert and Emma Pooley All-Academic Ohio Seniors Lauren Carter, Morgan Rekstis, Zoe Campbell, Jessie Muckley, Ava McDavid and Kaitlyn Brittain Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: Great season from hard work and effort. A lot was accomplished as players played every game like their last. This group is a true testament to what hard work and dedication can accomplish, and I hope they can encourage the next class of players to understand what it takes to be successful as a team as well as a student-athlete.

FOOTBALL

Head Coach: Deb Pickering Assistant Coaches: Theresa Rhoads, Keli Yoho-Wagner and Alex Caley Record: 10-8 Federal League Record: 6-6 Team Accomplishments: 4th in the Federal League.

Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: Federal League Awards: Brooke Pope - 2-time Federal League Player of Year and 1st Team Natalie Stepanovich - 2nd Team Lauren Radalia - Honorable Mention Stark County Awards: Brooke Pope -1st Team Natalie Stepanovich - 2nd Team MyAzia West - Honorable Mention District IV Awards: Brooke Pope -1st Team Natalie Stepanovich - 2nd Team Lauren Radalia - Honorable Mention

Head Coach: Beau Balderson Assistant Coaches: Tim Flaherty, Ray Keller, Bob Petraroli, Gibran Baskerville, Nick Paliswat, Mark Beitler, Kurt Jarvis, Dustin Jarvis, Drew Shreve and Al Hennon Record: 0-8 Federal League Record: 0-6 Team Accomplishments: Navigated a season through a pandemic without a single confirmed case of COVID. Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: Luke Tyler Team MVP, Captains - Luke Tyler, Aeden Begue, Ricky Adams, Dylan Philpott, Christian Lopes, Logan Scott.

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Brooke Pope, 2x Federal League player of the year, broke the school assist record. She ended the season with 2,250 assists!

Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: There were many challenges and guidelines our team had to overcome this year. This was a very different year due to protocols and not being able to have a team camp, summer league, or team bonding over the summer and season. The girls showed resilience and found a way to overcome all of the obstacles this season. One of the main factors contributing to this was our senior leadership. Our four seniors, Emily Wertz, Lauren Radalia, MyAzia West, and Brooke Pope, will be greatly missed.

Continued

FALL SPORTS RECAPS Continued

GIRLS TENNIS

Stark County and Academic All Ohio. Jack Shoemaker was Academic All Ohio.

Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: The boys golf team entered the season, knowing it had a tough road ahead after graduating the top 4 golfers from last year. The boys worked hard all season which paid off in the Federal League Post Season Tournament in which they finished 4th behind league powers Jackson, Green, and Lake, who were all-district qualifiers. The team has a really good group of young golfers ready to step up and compete next year. The coaching staff wishes to thank the 5 Seniors who played this year.

Head Coach: Chris Porter

GIRLS GOLF

Assistant Coach: Scott Fletcher Record: 1-19 Federal League Record: 0-6 Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: Elaina Norris 2nd team all-county and All-Federal League Honorable Mention Singles.

Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: A rebuilding year for a very young team. Many of our underclassmen gained a lot of invaluable experience this year.

BOYS GOLF

Head Coach: Scott McCahan Assistant Coaches: Minh McNenny, Zac Hawkins and Mark Mazzaferri Record: 5-4 Federal League Record: 3-3

Head Coach: Scott McCahan Assistant Coaches: Jeff Davis and Marsha Wise Record: 2-7 Federal League Record: 1-5 Team Accomplishments: Finished in 4th place in the Federal League, which included a 5th place finish in the pre-season tournament and a 4th place finish in the postseason tournament. Overall the team competed in many tournaments this year and had a season-best 6th place finish, score 343, in the Cardinal Mooney Classic at Mill Creek. The team was led that day by Kyle Jordanides with a 78.

Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: Landon Sumor was Honorable Mention All Federal League, All Stark County, and Academic All Ohio. Kyle Jordanides was Honorable Mention All Stark County. Tyler Shapiro was Honorable Mention All

Team Accomplishments: The Girls finished 4th in the Federal League, which included a 4th place finish in the pre-season tournament and regular season. The girls placed 5th in the postseason tournament. Madison Reemsnyder was a medalist at both league tournaments.

In Sectional play, the girls finished 5th, just missing out qualifying for Districts by one spot as Madison was again tournament medalist. Madison and Lauren Petro did qualify for the District Tournament as individuals.

Individual Player Achievements/Accomplishments/ Awards: Madison Reemsnyder, Federal League Player of the Year, 1st Team All Federal League, 1st Team All Stark County, 1st team All Northeast Ohio District. Lauren Petro Honorable Mention Federal League, All Stark County, All Northeast Ohio District, and Academic All Ohio. Alexis Ames Honorable Mention All Stark County and Academic All Ohio. Emma Knisely Honorable Mention All Stark County and Academic All Ohio Final Thoughts on the season from the Coach: The girls golf team had a season of ups and downs in the tough Federal League and the many tournaments they played in. The coaching staff wishes to thank all the seniors for the contributions they made during their careers to the girls golf program. The team looks forward to next year with the return of Madison Reemsnyder, Corrie Schorsten, and a core of young golfers.

www.plainlocal.org

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PLAIN LOCAL SCHOOLS

TICKET PROCEDURES HomeTown Ticketing has been named the Official Ticketing Partner of GlenOak High School. This partnership will give GlenOak High School the ability to sell tickets for school events online, as well as provide additional security and reporting capabilities for the GlenOak staff to utilize.

Parents will go to www.glenoakathletics.org/events-tickets or go to www.glenoakathletics.org and click on the tickets link in the upper right-hand corner of the screen to purchase tickets for each event. NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE GATE.

Our ticket distribution is based off of 15% of our total capacity in each venue along with team number of participants. Away ticket procedures will vary at each individual school.

Varsity/JV Boys and Girls Basketball COST: $6.00 General Admission (plus fee) • Players and Cheerleaders will be provided an opportunity to purchase seven tickets for each home basketball game.

• The Student ID number for each team member will be the unique code to access your tickets.

High School/Middle School Wrestling COST: $6.00 General Admission (plus fee) • Wrestlers will be provided an opportunity to purchase seven tickets for each home wrestling match.

• A code will be provided to each team member.

Boys and Girls Swimming COST: $6.00 General Admission (plus fee) • Swimmers will be provided an opportunity to purchase five tickets for each home swim meet.

• A code will be provided to each team member.

Freshman Basketball COST: $3.00 General Admission (plus fee) • Players will be provided an opportunity to purchase seven tickets for each home freshman basketball game.

• A code will be provided to each team member.

Middle School Basketball COST: $3.00 General Admission (plus fee) • Players will be provided an opportunity to purchase six tickets for each home basketball game.

• A code will be provided to each team member.

If tickets remain for any event, they will go on sale at 8:00 am on game day to the general public. The ticket office will be open for any questions or problems Monday-Friday from 7:00am-3:00pm. Call at 330-491-3878 or email plstickets@plainlocal.org.

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Member SIPC

WINTER SPORTS SPECTATOR ATTENDANCE POLICY GlenOak High School encourages spectators to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 during all athletic contests.

STAYING HOME WHEN APPROPRIATE: • Stay home if you have tested positive for COVID-19 or are showing any COVID-19 symptoms.

• Stay home and monitor your health if you have had close contact with a person who has symptoms of COVID-19 within the past 14 days.

HAND HYGIENE AND RESPIRATORY ETIQUETTE: • Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the facility.

• Spectators are encouraged to have and use hand sanitizer at events.

• Spectators are encouraged to wash hands often and cover coughs and sneezes.

• Spectators are discouraged from exchanging handshakes, fist bumps, and high-fives at sporting events.

MASKS: • Masks are most essential in times when physical distancing is difficult (e.g., when moving within a crowd or audience).

• Masks are required when entering all Plain Local Schools facilities.

• Masks are required to remain on all spectators during games.

SEATING: • Families of the same household are encouraged to sit together socially distanced from other spectators.

• Six feet of social distance must be maintained at all times between fans.

• Do not sit in the areas that are taped off to maintain social distancing.

EXIT PROCEDURE: • No gathering is permitted after the game ends.

• If your athlete is riding home with you, please have them meet you at your car in the parking lot.

GET SET FOR THE HOLIDAYS The Spirit Shop at GlenOak High School is your stop for Eagle gear and merchandise! Stop by and check out their selection as you plan what to buy for the Eagle fan in your life this holiday season! They have clothing, accessories and more!

The spirit shop will be open on the following days and times:

e Fre-up k Pic & ry ive Del

Call Today to schedule this important service

Nov. 21: 9AM – 12PM Nov. 24: 5:30 – 7:30PM Dec. 2: 5:30 – 7:30PM Dec. 5: 9AM – 12PM Dec. 10: 5:30 – 7:30PM Dec. 12: 9AM – 12PM Dec. 15: 5:30 – 7:30PM Dec. 16: 5:30 – 7:30PM Dec. 17: 5:30 – 7:30PM

Dec. 19: 9AM – 12PM Jan. 5: 5:30 – 7:30PM Jan. 9: 9AM – 12PM Jan. 11: 4:30 – 6:30PM Jan. 16: 9AM – 12PM Jan. 20: 5:30 – 7:30PM Jan. 22: 5:30 – 7:30PM Jan. 23: 9AM – 12PM Jan. 26: 5:30 – 7:30PM

330-492-6633 We Service and Repair All Makes and Models!

SNOWBLOWER SERVICE

68.00

• Replace Spark Plug • Chainge Oil • Check & Adjust Belts & Cables • Lubricate All Fitting & Moving Components • Adjust Scraper Bar & Skid Shoes • Check Tires

$

Includes Pick-up & Delivery

National Mower Maintenance & Repair

PORTABLE GENERATOR SERVICE

• Replace Spark Plug

• Change Oil & Filter (if equipped)

• Clean Air Filter

• Test Electric Start (if equipped)

• Test Current Includes Pick-up & Delivery

$

88.00

National Mower Maintenance & Repair

Questions about the Spirit Shop?

Email Mike Nieporte at nieportem@plainlocal.org.

www.plainlocal.org

13

USDA TO OFFER FREE MEALS THROUGH END OF SCHOOL YEAR

The USDA has extended the Free Meals for All Students food program through June 30, 2021. This means that breakfast and lunch meals will be available to ALL students each school day at no cost.

Per the USDA and federal food service programs, this includes complete meals only. Individual items will be charged accordingly. For example: If a student chooses to buy only milk (or extra milk), it will cost $.50. However, if a student orders a full meal that includes milk, the meal is at no cost to the student.

Parents still MUST complete the free and reduced lunch applications for all eligible students for the 2020-2021 school year. As a reminder, if a student is eligible for the waiver of school fees, the free and reduced application is required.

Eagle Online students (100% virtual) may order and pick up meal bundles that include five breakfasts and five lunches at no cost each week school is in session. Holidays and weekend meals are not included. Pickup will be on the first day of each school week, and meals must be ordered by Thursday at noon each week. Families are required to order online at payschoolscentral.com.

Questions can be directed to Food Service Director Jennifer Rex at rexj@plainlocal.org or 330-493-5569.

PLAIN LOCAL SCHOOLS FOOD SERVICE DEPARTMENT TACKLES HUNGER

Since the start of school closures in March during the COVID-19 pandemic, the food service staff at Plain Local Schools has been on the front lines making sure our community had healthy meals. Eight different pickup locations were placed in the local community in hopes of reaching as many children as possible—the program operated with support from the United States Department of Agriculture. A total of 50,630 breakfast and lunch were provided in our immediate community during the school closures.

Thank you to our food service team for your commitment to ensuring every child in our community has food.

FOOD SERVICE SEEKING SUBS

The Food Service department at Plain Local Schools is looking for subs for the 2020-2021 school year.

• Enjoy the same workday calendar as your children • $10.00 per hour • 3-4 hours a day • Flexible schedule if needed This is a great opportunity to get started with Plain Local Schools!

Questions can be directed to Food Service Director Jennifer Rex at rexj@plainlocal.org or 330-493-5569.

LOCAL FOOD The Plain Local Schools Food Service department is committed to offering our students fresh and locally grown food items. This school year, students have been able to enjoy new items on the menu as a part of the commitment by our food service department to not only combat food insecurity in our community but to offer kids news foods that are also locally grown.

Recently, students at Oakwood Middle School enjoyed fiesta bean spicy salad that included hydroponic lettuce from Green City Growers in Cleveland, Ohio, fresh cilantro from George Jones Farm in Oberlin, Ohio, tortilla chips and black beans from Shagbark Seed Mill in Athens, Ohio, and cheese cubes from Middlefield cheese in Middlefield, Ohio.

Be on the look-out for more locally sourced items in your student’s cafeteria this school year!

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Did you Know...

G L E N O A K

H I G H

S C H O O L

H A S

C O U R S E

ADVANCEMENT TO NURSING

O F F E R I N G S ?

ANIMATION & GRAPHIC DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION TRADES

HIGH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

16 CAREER AND TECHNICAL

COSMETOLOGY

HORTICULTURE

SPORTS MED

COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIES

FIRE SCIENCE & EMS

ENGINEERING

MUSIC PRODUCTION

LIGHT & SOUND

THEATER ARTS

VIDEO PRODUCTION

TEACHER PATHWAYS

APPLICATIONS

QUESTIONS?

COMING

EMAIL

IN

KUMMERL@PLAINLOCAL.ORG

NOVEMBER...

www.plainlocal.org

15

2020 PLAIN LOCAL SCHOOLS BOARD MEMBERS AND MEETINGS

Eugene M. Cazantzes President Term: 2020-2023 h: 330-456-5787

Dr. Ambrose Perduk, Jr. Vice-President Term: 2018-2021 h: 330-904-4620

Monica Rose Gwin Term: 2020-2023 c: 330-417-5208

Kristen Donohue Guardado Term: 2018-2021 w: 330-489-3395 h: 330-497-2828

John W. Halkias Term: 2018-2021 c: 234-262-0470 h: 330-494-4719

BOARD OF EDUCATION DATES 2020 MEETING DATES: Nov. 18 – GlenOak High School

Dec. 9 – Administration Office

All meetings begin at 6:30 p.m unless otherwise noted

We're open! be connected

E FRE-up k Pic & ry ive Del

Visit your favorite librarian or reserve and pick up your materials using our Library-to-Go service.

be official

330-492-6633

Need to get a document notarized? Get it done for free at the library! Please call to ensure a notary is available before visiting.

We Service and Repair All Makes and Models including Snow Blowers!

be prepared Free copies up to $3.00.

Must use credit/debit card for additional printing.

Plain Community Branch StarkLibrary.org | 330.494.3399

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Call Today to schedule this important service

WALK-BEHIND MOWER (1 BLADE UNIT)

• Sharpen Blade • Change Oil • Replace Spark Plug • Clean Air Filter • Check Any Belts for Wear • Lubricate All Moving Components

68.00

$

Includes Pick-up & Delivery

National Mower Maintenance & Repair

RIDING MOWER SERVICE

• Sharpen Blade • Replace Spark Plug and Air Filter • Change Oil & Filter (if equipped) • Check Any Belts for Wear and tension • Lubricate All Fittings and Moving Components • Check Battery and Tires Includes Pick-up & Delivery

$

138.00

National Mower Maintenance & Repair

HISTORIC PLAIN TOWNSHIP HOME SOLD SUBMITTED BY: CINDY GUEST, PLAIN TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY If you were driving around the area of Schneider Street Northeast and Market Avenue North in October, you might have noticed a Kiko auction sign about a historic home being auctioned off. On Friday, October 30, that home sold and changed families for the fifth time in 207 years. This historic home started out as the John Kryder home in 1821.

John purchased the land in 1813. James McDowell purchased the land and house from the Kryder’s in 1836, and the house stayed in the McDowell family until 1949. The home was then passed to the Hursh family of The Hursh Coal Company. In 1974, the Buck family purchased the home and lived there for 46 years. This makes this house one of the oldest in Plain Township.

The Kryder family built the original house in 1821. In 1836, James McDowell and wife Elizabeth Hildenbrand moved into the current classic brick Greek Rival style (the larger part of the house.) As the family grew, James and Elizabeth added five rooms on to the east in 1851. The original farm was 160 acres (a quarter of a section) which using present-day roads, was bounded on the west by Market Ave N, the south by Schneider Rd NE, the east by GlenOak High School property, and on the north by Easton St NE (this area is referred to as Section 15 Northwest Quarter.) Eventually, the McDowell family added 240 acres in Section 16 (area of Walsh University and Nottingham Village) and 160 acres in Section 19 (The Venue at Belden area).

James McDowell built his successful Pleasant View and Spring Hil Park Farms on the raising of Merino sheep, horses, Scotch collies, cattle, hogs, turkeys, chickens, and apprenticing shepherds. James started out as an apprentice shepherd raising Merino sheep with William Dickinson in the Massillon area. Once James earned enough money, he started buying land and building his own flock of sheep based on the bloodlines of Mr. Dickinson’s flock. Merino sheep were raised for their wool and are still found in modern wool products. There still are Merino sheep in this area that descend from the McDowell flock. James also played an important role in advancing education in Plain Township and was on the board of the Farmer’s Bank in Canton. Just another piece of the Plain History puzzle.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY FUNDRAISER

Busy Christmas Shopping and Need Help with Dinner? Join the Plain Township Historical Society in partnership with McDonald’s for our 6th Annual Fundraiser. At the McDonald’s located at 6302 Market Avenue North (Across the street from Walsh University) on Wednesday, December 16, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. If you are out and about doing your holiday shopping or you just need to get out of the house, let McDonald’s supply the meal and help support the Plain Township Historical Society.

20% of the proceeds will be donated to support the mission of the Plain Township Historical Society.

Due to COVID-19 there is no dine-in option. No flyer required.

PLAIN TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY CONTACT: Email: preservingplaintwp@gmail.com Facebook: Facebook.com/PlainTownshipHistoricalSociety Website: preservingplaintwp.org Phone: 330-224-2660

PLAIN PAPER The Plain Paper is published by Plain Local Schools. It is distributed free of charge to to community residents, businesses and Plain Local staff. The purpose of Plain Paper 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.

Editor: Mary Beddell, Plain Local Public Relations Director Plain Paper Plain Local Schools 901 44th Street NW, Canton, Ohio 44709 Office: 330-492-3500 • Fax: 330-493-5542 Questions, comments or advertising regarding Plain Paper can be emailed to beddellm@plainlocal.org Federal Law prohibits Plain Paper 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.

Plain Paper logo and design 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.

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.

www.plainlocal.org

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CREATING AND MAINTAINING SOCIAL/ EMOTIONAL INTERACTIONS FOR OUR CHILDREN

BY DEANNA MOYER, AAS, BASW “COVID. Coronavirus. The pandemic. COVID-19. The virus.” However, we choose to refer to it, the one consistency in all of 2020 is that every single person has been affected by it somehow.

And “every single person” includes our children.

Children from infancy to young adulthood have had a disruption to their social interactions and peer-to-peer experiences. Although we all enjoy some time alone, we are social creatures who seek and need social interactions and relationships. These experiences help teach our children important skills for becoming successful adults: how to interact with others, social expectations, schedules and routines, self-regulation, appropriate interpersonal skills and help to develop empathy and compassion for others within themselves.

What can we, as parents and caregivers, do to help support and maintain some type of social interaction for our children?

Infants through toddlers develop language skills by hearing sounds, watching mouths move, and facial expressions. In-person, social interactions with facemasks may limit this type of interaction, but technology still allows for learning and socializing. Plan a nursery-rhyme time with grandparents over zoom, face-time silly songs with young cousins, have a storybook time every night in google chat with friends who have young children.

Preschool-age children are beginning to interact and play alongside and with others in more organized play.

Meet one or two of their peers (and parents!) outside in a yard or open area at a park and host field day activities. Space hula hoops, bubbles, and jump ropes six feet apart. Time the children for ribbons, trophies, or awards of some kind. See how far each can throw a football, softball, or Nerf ball. Creating activities, they can do together but apart will allow them to experience all of the skills and social exposure they need. And they will leave happy and worn out!

If your preschooler is not able to get out for in-person meets, try scheduling a virtual playdate through zoom or another virtual-meeting platform. Plan themes or ideas for the visits so that the children are excited and have a topic to ignite their conversations. Have them read and act out their favorite books, or host a virtual show and tell. They can share pictures of their families, vacations, and pets with one another or take each other on a tour of their home.

Children in grade school are learning how to develop and maintain friendships and are also learning how to play and interact cooperatively. If your child is attending school, keep in mind that everything is so different for them now, and even though your child may be physically interacting with others throughout the day, their closest friends may not be there. Pay special attention to your child’s mood, and ask about their friendships at school now – is there somebody they are missing? Set up a time for a virtual meeting, so they can see one an-

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other. Ask them to read a book of riddles. Get them to laugh. Do Mad-Libs. Or ask them to talk to each other about Minecraft or Roblox. What other videogames do they like? They will talk forever, be at ease, and will enjoy seeing their friends.

Students in middle school through high school are more likely to have their social interests figured out. There are many clubs, sports, and groups for them to join. Perhaps your child is ready for a part-time job or is an active member of Scouts. Local churches may have youth groups beginning. Maybe they want to join the track team or have been a member for years already. As a child gets older, there are many more opportunities for in-person social interactions and the freedom to make more choices on their own.

Setting aside time for virtual meetings with family and friends is still important for this age group. They still need that connection to others in their circle. Maybe there is a family out of state, grandparents who haven’t been seen in a while. Create virtual celebrations; ask them to set up google-meets with friends and family out of town or who are quarantined.

Be aware that students who are not active socially or who are not a member of a group or activity outside of the home may feel particularly isolated throughout COVID, especially if they are learning virtually. Middle school and high school years are known to be challenging times for many students in general, and adding the isolation and inconsistency of the pandemic can create even more challenges for some children. Take note of early warning signs that your child may be struggling emotionally or mentally from the impact of the recent changes in our world, and have that tough conversation with them. Ask often how they are doing, check in with their needs and moods. Reach out and seek support when needed.

There are many options to creating and maintaining social/emotional relationships for our children, both in-person and virtually. Some options require more creativity and planning than others, but technology has made staying in touch easier. Whether in person or digitally, the most important factor is that we do it.

The world is definitely challenging, with so many uncertainties. We all love our children and want to do what we can to help them be successful, healthy, and happy.

Parents and families take heart in knowing this: The biggest factor in a child’s resilience and likelihood to overcome challenges is having a strong support system and a loving, positive relationship with at least one trusted adult.

We got this.

PLAIN LOCAL STUDENTS CAN EXPERIENCE ANYTHING VIRTUALLY

Eagle Online students are flying into the second nine weeks! We are pleased that students will continue to participate in arts classes while learning online. Students will have the opportunity to experience the arts while at home in addition to regular core classes. Teachers and students have been working together online to build relationships with each other as numbers changed from the beginning of school. The district is proud that over 1,300 students are learning online and feedback from the community has been positive. Teachers have worked to provide an amazing and fun environment for students. Families feel comfortable that student needs are being met and moving forward academically. Students are also participating in extra-curricular activities with their classmates. Superintendent Brent May stated, “Plain Local teachers have created an engaging environment where all students can learn in a comfortable and safe setting while still staying connected with their friends! This initiative has created new opportunities for families to engage in all that Plain Local has to offer while learning from home. I am proud of our teachers and staff for how they are servicing the students in Plain Local. We have the best staff!�

Stay tuned for more updates on how our Eagle Online students are staying engaged in this digital world!

Miss Calhoun and Mr. Larkins are housed at GlenOak High School while teaching students in Eagle Online. They are two examples of teaching making their spaces their own so they have a fun and engaging background while working with our virtual learners!

Ms. Willoughby reads to her virtual learners during an Eagle Online lesson

www.plainlocal.org

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NOMINATE AN EXEMPLARY YOUTH WHO VOLUNTEERS IN OUR COMMUNITY

United Way of Greater Stark County is now accepting applications for the 2021 Inspired Youth award.

“Volunteer work is empowering,” says Maria Heege, United Way of Greater Stark County President & CEO. “It teaches youth the value of teamwork, commitment, and follow-through. Volunteering offers them real-life experiences that provide unique opportunities which foster leadership. This award recognizes their motivation, contribution, and success to their community while creating a positive culture that promotes self-value and encourages future leaders to give back.”

According to the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement of the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life at Tufts University, there are many benefits to youth who volunteer. Besides personal growth and satisfaction, young volunteers can build a network and often encounter others who act as mentors. Participation in volunteering activities also helps build “soft skills” such as leadership and organizational skills that are sought after in the job market. Youth also lend their perspective to important civic issues such as inequity and economic mobility.

Inspired Youth Award: United Way’s Inspired Youth Award recognizes one exceptional young leader who demonstrates outstanding volunteer leadership in their school, community, or group and is 18 and under. Criteria for the award include: demonstrates initiative, leadership, and creativity in their service to others; serves as a role model for others in their community; inspires others to join them in their effort; helps improve the overall quality of life of fellow citizens and the community in the areas of health, education or financial stability. The nominee must have been engaged in a volunteer activity that occurred at least partly during the 12 months prior to the date of nomination; be a resident of Carroll or Stark County; 18 and under.

Previous recipients of this award include Bradley Mull of Oakwood Middle School and Isabel Lombardi of St. Michael School. You can learn more about them at uwstark.org/press-releases and uwstark.org/volunteer-stories Know someone you would like to nominate? Nominations open November 30 and close January 22. The final recipient will receive an award and be featured on our website in the volunteer section. Visit uwstark.org/inspiredyouth today to submit your recommendation.

ABOUT UNITED WAY OF GREATER STARK COUNTY United Way of Greater Stark County fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. We win by living United, by forging unlikely partnerships, by finding new solutions to old problems, by mobilizing the best resources, and by inspiring individuals to join the fight against their community’s most daunting social crisis. Our mission is to improve the quality of life in our communities by leading in the development of solutions to critical social issues in the areas of health, education, and financial stability. In order to live better, we must live United. For more information about United Way of Greater Stark County, visit uwstark.org. Offices are at 401 Market Avenue North, Suite 300, Canton, Ohio 44702. (330) 491-0445.

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COLLEGE CREDIT PLUS: WHAT TO KNOW BY: RYAN BUCHER Are you looking for an academic challenge? Are you thinking of ways to prepare for the college experience? College Credit Plus (CCP) could be the right answer for you. As a college recruiter, I hear from many first semester students about how they would have taken advantage of CCP while in high school if they had just known about the opportunity, that the ability to take college classes before graduation would have been such a great benefit.

CCP is a state-funded opportunity for college-ready Ohio students in grades 7-12 to earn college credit. Under CCP, students may be able to complete up to 120 credit hours toward a college degree. Earning college credits while in school could reduce the time and cost of attending college. One of the most appealing parts of this is that there is no cost for tuition, books, or fees for students and their families.

With all of this said, there are a few requirements, risks, and benefits of taking college courses while in junior high or high school. Here are some things to talk through as a family and with the guidance staff at Plain Local Schools: • Is your student ready for college-level courses? They need to be independent and a self-starter. College professors will not remind them of assignments or provide in-class time to complete work.

• Will your student feel comfortable taking college courses? Talk through being in a higher-level classroom environment with older students. If your student is hesitant, that is OK – college courses before graduation aren’t for everyone.

• How will CCP affect your student’s participation in sports and other extracurricular activities? College courses and assignments may conflict with the times that these are offered.

• What classes will your student need in order to graduate from high school? Plan carefully to make sure that whichever courses you take through CCP will fulfill these requirements.

• If your student drops or fails a CCP course, would you have to reimburse your school for these courses? And then, how would your student fulfill high school graduation requirements?

• How will your student get to face-to-face courses? Colleges do not provide transportation to campus for CCP courses. Will your student have reliable transportation even when the weather is bad?

• What are the entrance requirements for CCP students? Many colleges and universities require a minimum GPA and an ACT/ SAT score. With COVID restrictions in place, there are not as many national testing dates.

Make sure your student takes the ACT/SAT if offered, or ask if the college offers an alternative test. At Aultman College, for example, students can take ACCUPLACER for free to assess college readiness for our CCP program.

My final tip: NOW is the time to start planning for the next school year. Most junior high and high schools require you to let them know by April 1 if your student plans to participate in CCP for the 2021-22 year. The next five months will go quickly, so have those important conversations and do a little research now.

Ryan is the recruiter at Aultman College. You can reach him at ryan.bucher@aultman.com or 330-363-6938.

NEO Tree Professional Services Family-owned, GlenOak alumni ran business in Plain Township!

Offering: – Free Estimates – Tree Removal, Trimming, Stump Grinding – Fully insured

Visit our website professional-tree-services.com or call 330-697-8941 for a quote today!

www.plainlocal.org

21

STARK PARKS COMMUNITY UPDATE

‘Tis the season in Stark Parks! In this unique year, we’re looking to you to help spread cheer! From seasonally-inspired programs to at-home virtual opportunities, we want to help you feel connected. We have guided hikes that will warm you up, virtual yoga classes to help you check-in with your body and mind (for free!), and wildlife programs that will captivate all ages.

Visit StarkParks.com for park & trail news, seasonal programming, and more ways to explore.

DECK THE HOLLOW Stark Parks wants to put you in a festive mood with the Deck the Hollow Lights Walk at Quail Hollow Park in Hartville! From December 4-6 and 11-13 from 5 to 9:30 pm each night, safely ring in the season with decorated trees, lights, and festive music. Kids can drop off their letters to Santa and see Saint Nick! Animal ambassadors will be available for viewing, and guests will be sent home with a make-your-own ornament and a special treat for Santa’s crew! This will also be a Toys for Tots drop-off location. New, unwrapped gifts will be accepted (and appreciated) each night. Registration is required. Times can be booked at StarkParks.com. Groups of 25 will be allotted to assure safe distancing and time to enjoy the festivities.

CLARK IN THE PARK Help us find Santa’s nature-loving elf this holiday season! Follow his antics at Facebook.com/StarkParks for chances to win prizes throughout December. Then, on December 19 from 12 to 2 pm, join us at the Exploration Gateway (Sippo Lake Park North) for a story walk, stop by for a chance to see Santa, and pick up a goodie bag with treats for the kiddos - and a special snack for Santa’s trusty reindeer! Visit StarkParks.com/clarkinthepark for more information!

GNOMEVEMBER GNOME RUN Feeling too stuffed after your big Thanksgiving dinner? Grab some of your gnomies and feel like a winner! On November 27 and 28, any time between 11 am and 6 pm, join Stark Parks for a free run, walk, or jog around a 2.3 mile marked course at Tam O’Shanter Park. Take a selfie with a gnome at the park for a chance to win a fun Friends of Stark Parks prize basket! Want to add to the challenge? Bring a gnome and carry it while you run! Want to add to the fun? Dress like one! For more details, visit StarkParks.com/gnome.

HIKE-A-THON Spend December 21, 2020, from sunrise (7:47 am) to sunset (5:02 pm) hiking all day on various Stark Parks trails! Travel from site-to-site OR you can select which hike(s) you would like to attend.

(NOTE: group sizes are limited to 8 people to follow COVID-19 guidelines). Register at StarkParks.com/winterhike.

TIMES AND LOCATIONS: 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Hoover Trail (Ballfields) 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Middle Branch Trail (Veterans Park) 11:30 am to 1 pm Pioneer Trail (Weis Park) 1:45 pm to 3 pm. West Branch Trail (Timken Gatehouse) 3:30 pm to 5 pm Sippo Lake Park West (Wildlife Conservation Center)

PLAN A VISIT TO MALONE A campus visit—even a virtual visit—is the best way to determine if Malone University is a good fit for you! Every Thursday at 3 pm, a Malone student ambassador offers a guided virtual tour, allowing prospective students to hear from a current student about the Malone experience without ever leaving home! Additionally, Malone offers customized virtual visits, open most weekdays, throughout the year. Virtual visits can accommodate specific interests and needs and are the perfect time to ask any Malone or college-related questions. There are opportunities to chat with faculty, financial aid staff, and admissions counselors, and more. Learn more and sign up at www.malone.edu/visit.

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PLAIN TOWNSHIP PARKS INDOOR SOCCER 2021 INDOOR SESSION 2 LEAGUES. TO REGISTER, VISIT: WWW.TEAMSIDELINE.COM/PLAINTOWNSHIP REC K

JAN: 30 FEB: 6,13,20,27 MAR: 6,13, 20,27

Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 1/24/2021

Cost is $60.00 per child Includes T-Shirt Cost is $82.50 for 1st child

REC 1-6

JAN: 30 FEB: 6,13,20,27 MAR: 6,13, 20,27

$71.50 for 2nd child

Registration Opens 12/1/2020

$66.00 for 3rd child and up

Registration Closes 1/24/2021

$55.00 for one child if parent coaches/ per player Includes T-Shirt Cost is $82.50 for 1st child

REC 7-8

JAN: 18,25 FEB: 1,8,15,22 MAR: 1,8,15

$71.50 for 2nd child

Registration Opens 12/1/2020

$66.00 for 3rd child and up

Registration Closes 1/11/2021

$55.00 for one child if parent coaches/ per player Includes T-Shirt

U10

JAN: 18,25 FEB: 1,8,15,22 MAR: 1,8,15

U12

JAN: 18,25 FEB: 1,8,15,22 MAR: 1,8,15

U14

JAN: 18,25 FEB: 1,8,15,22 MAR: 1,8,15

Adult Co-ed

FEB: 5,12,19,26 MAR: 5,12,19,26 APR: 2,9

Men’s

JAN: 17,24,31 FEB: 14,21,28 MAR: 7,14,21,28

HS Co-ed

FEB: 10-11, 17-18,24-25 MAR: 3-4, 10-11, 17-18,24-25 APR: 3/31-4/1, 7-8,14-15

HS Girls

FEB: 7,14,21,28 MAR: 7,14,21,28 APR: 11,18

HS REC

JAN: 26 FEB: 2,9,16,23 MAR: 2,9,16,23,30

Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 1/24/2021 Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 1/24/2021 Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 1/11/2021 Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 1/31/2021 Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 1/10/2021 Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 2/4/2021 Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 1/24/2021 Registration Opens 12/1/2020 Registration Closes 1/19/2021

Cost is $600 per team Referee fee is $10 per team

Cost is $600 per team Referee fee is $10 per team

Cost is $600 per team Referee fee is $10 per team

Cost is $660 per team Referee fee is $12 per team

Cost is $660 per team Referee Fee is $12 per team

Cost is $660 per team Referee Fee is $12 per team

Cost is $660 per team Referee Fee is $12 per team

Cost is $660 per team Referee Fee is $12 per team

TO REGISTER FOR SHELTERS OR THE DIAMOND COMMUNITY ROOM, PLEASE VISIT: HTTPS://APM.ACTIVECOMMUNITIES.COM/PLAINTOWNSHIP/ www.plainlocal.org

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GOLDEN EAGLE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

VIRTUAL

Athletic Auction

Help support athletics in Plain Local for this one-of-a-kind fundraiser. In response to COVID-19, we have taken our annual GEAA auction online so everyone can bid from the comfort of their own device!

Bid on hundreds of unique items and support Plain Local Athletics at the same time!

Bid any time between Tuesday, November 17Sunday, November 22

Simply visit http://bit.ly/geaavirtualauction to bid!

Questions? Call the Athletic Office at 330.491.3850.