The PACT Network on Cox Channel 74

As we all look ahead in the new year, I am pleased to bring you news about the progress of our television programming on Cox Communications.

Beginning January 26, the district will be spearheading the debut of the PACT (Parma Area Community Television) Network on Cox Channel 74.  This cooperative effort involves the cities of Parma, Parma Heights and Seven Hills, as well as Cuyahoga Community College’s Western Campus, the Cuyahoga County Public Library system, and Parma Community General Hospital.

Broadcasting 24 hours, seven days per week, Channel 74 will feature video segments from each partner organization as well as music, photos and character-generated information. 

The move from our current location on Cox Channel 45 provides us with an opportunity to bring greater depth and understanding to what takes place within our district.  The creation of the PACT Network also gives the students in our Radio/TV Career and Technical Program the chance to work on projects that will enhance their learning and help shape their futures.

As a fledgling network, our development will take some time and we will have some growing pains, but I trust that they will be few and short-lived.

Thank you to the Community Outreach Department, Dan Rajkovich, producer for the PACT Network, David Droes, the Radio/TV instructor at Normandy, Christy Bykowski at Cox, and the various members of all of the partner organizations for their efforts in bringing the PACT Network on Cox Channel 74 to the air. I look forward to a successful venture that is of benefit to the entire community.

Northeast Ohio Elementary Science Olympiad Competition

Every year, twenty-five of our ALP fifth and sixth graders participate in a regional science competition at Cleveland State University. This year’s event takes place on Saturday, February 17.  Congratulations to the following students who will be representing ALP and the Parma City School District:
    Green Valley – Becky Pasela, Arlene Kostyack, and Andrea Lippucci
    John Glenn – Courtney Kissel, Deanna Krokos, Melaney Cook, Kristen M ontalvo, and Thomas Potoma
    John Muir – Clare Ols and Avishi Shinde
    Parma Park – Eve Likos
    Parkview – Andrea Trompak and Nick Dessoffy
    Pearl Road – Stephen Peterson and Jeffrey Hlutke
    Pleasantview – Juli Holbert, Michael Nock, and Ellias Kahwaji
    Renwood – Meghan Tubbesing and Lindsay Bailey
    Ridge-Brook – Andrea Ellison, Krystina Horvath, and Sarah Carney
    State Road – Taylor Paletta
    Thoreau Park – Alyssa Predota

Advanced Placement/Honors Nights

Just in time for the 2007-2008 school year high school course registration activities, Normandy, Parma Senior and Valley Forge High Schools are hosting AP/Honors Nights to give students and their parents an opportunity to learn more about the courses in the AP/Honors program. 

The dates and times are as follows:

       Normandy High School--------Thursday, January 25, 7:00 PM

       Parma Senior High-------------Wednesday, January 31, 6:30 PM

       Valley Forge High School-----Wednesday, February 7, 6:30 PM 

Students whose parents received invitations to this event should be aware that the event is an informational opportunity and that they must still complete the recommendation process for 2007-2008 AP/Honors courses. 

Invitations were sent home to the parents of ninth, tenth and eleventh grade students who achieved a 2.75 or better (3.00 for Normandy) for the first marking period of this school year---but any students and their parents interested in AP or Honors courses are welcome to attend. 

Invitations were also sent home to the parents of Greenbriar, Hillside and Shiloh Middle School eighth graders who achieved a 2.75 or better for the first marking period. 

All three schools are presenting programs that are different from last year’s events. The program formats vary somewhat for all three high schools, but each school wants to give parents and students the general idea of the importance of selecting honors and AP courses, along with a description of the course offerings.  Some current honors and AP students will be on hand to answer questions about their course experiences.

Read-a-Thon is Coming!

The eighth annual Read-a-Thon will be held on Saturday, February 17 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Parmatown Mall near JC Penney.

Sponsored by the Community/Business/Schools partnership, the Cuyahoga County Public Library,and Parma Hospital, the event will feature celebrity and student readers, a new and used book exchange courtesy of the Parma Council of PTAs, the wizardry of "Magic By Richard", and much more.

Be sure to visit the Parma Hospital Health Fair which is taking place the same day at the Mall.

Join us for a healthy day filled with reading!

Parma ABLE Program partners with Tri-C

The Parma Adult Basic and Literacy Education Program will soon be expanding its number of program locations! Parma ABLE, in partnership with the Literacy Services Division of Cuyahoga County Community College, will be offering FREE GED Test Preparation classes at the Tri-C Western Campus.  Classes will be held on Saturdays from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM.  The first registration will be at Tri-C West on January 13, 2007, at 10:00 AM in Room WBT (Western Business & Technology) C110.  Registrations will then be offered each month after that. Adult students interested in registering should bring picture identification on which their birthday is written.  Additional information may be obtained by accessing http://www.parmacityschools.org/gedtestingor by calling 440-887-4877.

The Parma ABLE Program is very visible in the community with FREE GED Test Preparation classes also being offered on various days and times at Parma South Library, Valley Forge High School, Divinity Lutheran Church, Kaplan Career Institute, and Remington College. Even GED Distance Learning Classes are available. The classes have helped many adults in preparing to take the GED Exam. Additional information may be obtained by accessing http://www.parmacityschools.org/gedtestingor by calling 440-887-4877.

In addition to the FREE GED Test Preparation classes being offered at the Tri-C Western Campus, the Parma GED Testing Center will begin offering GED Testing and Practice Testing there as well. GED Testing will be offered on Saturdays in March and June.  FREE GED Practice Testing will be offered on Saturdays in March and April. Additional information may be obtained by accessing http://www.parmacityschools.org/gedtestingor by calling 440-887-4877.

Parma’s GED Testing Program has assisted many community adults in reaching their goal of achieving a GED Diploma (High School Equivalency Diploma). Besides the testing and practice testing that will soon take place at Tri-C West, the Parma GED Testing Center also provides many other opportunities in the area for adults to take exams. GED Testing and GED Practice Testing are also held at Bryant and Stratton College, Parma South Library, Divinity Lutheran Church, Valley Forge High School, Remington College, Kaplan Career Institute, and Lakewood High School. Additional information may be obtained by accessing http://www.parmacityschools.org/gedtestingor by calling 440-887-4877.

Consolidation Update

Several departments from Central Office have moved to the new administrative center at Parma High. The Business Office, Children's Services, Human Resources, Special Education, and Student Services all arrived before the end of 2006.  The remaining departments will join them this spring.

We encourage you to visit Pleasant Valley and Valley Forge as well as Parma High to see the many changes that have taken place over the past year. The various projects will benefit our students, staff, and taxpayers now and well into the future.  

  Leaders’ Club

The next Leader’s Club meeting, scheduled for January 29, 2007 at Java Joe ’s, will feature Dave Singleton, School Improvement Coach for Cuyahoga County, and Pat Prunty, Project Coordinator for N.E. Regional School Improvement Team, as our guest speakers.  Attendance will provide you with an opportunity to learn more about the role each play in our educational community.

  State Evaluation

The district will be hosting four Ohio Department of Education evaluators on 2/14/07 – 2/16/07.  These 

representatives will be evaluating our grant-funded programs.

Marzano Training

Marzano Training is scheduled for this week on Wednesday and Thursday (1/17 & 1/18). Carol Froelich has arranged for Bea McGarvey to facilitate on both days from 8:30-3:30. 

The PACT Network on Cox Channel 74

We would like to recognize instructor David Droes and the students in the Radio/Television program for their part in helping the district launch the PACT (Parma Area Community Television) Network on Cox Communications Channel 74.

The students have been working with the Community Outreach Department for the past year to produce programming, some of which has appeared on Cox Community Access Channel 45.  As of January 29, the district programming will move to Cox Channel 74 as part of the PACT Network.

Students will continue to work on projects involving the district and will also assist in productions for the cities of Parma, Parma Heights, and Seven Hills, Parma Hospital, the Cuyahoga County Public Library, and Tri-C West.  The experience they gain will be valuable to a future career in broadcasting.

The Parma City Schools has sponsored tuition-based childcare programs since 1983.  We care for children of working parents before school from 7:00 - 9:00 AM and after school until 6:00 PM in all elementary buildings.  We have three sites offering Kindergarten care from 11:45 AM - 6:00 PM, and provide care for Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM in our Day Care Center housed in Normandy High School.

Our programs are licensed by the Ohio Department of Education and staffed by trained childcare providers.  Each program offers a variety of activities to support the healthy development of young children in an out-of-school environment. 

For additional information and tuition rates, please visit our websites:

http://www.parmacityschools.org/daycare/index.cfm

http://www.parmacityschools.org/edc/index.cfm

RELAY FOR LIFE

It is “The Party with a Purpose”…part celebration of cancer survivors and part all night street fair. 

July 27-28 from 2PM-9AM 

Relay For Life is the signature fund raising event for the American Cancer Society.  The Parma Relay is the largest event in Cuyahoga County and one of the largest Relay’s in the state.  It has also been honored for two consecutive years as being the fastest growing event in Ohio.  

Our goal is for each of our school buildings to have at least one team. 

What does it take? 

• A team captain.
• A team comprised of 10- 15 people.
• Each team’s goal is to raise $100/person-usually done in advance-but there is much food, drink and entertainment sold that night.  Any amount is appreciated.
• A tent to house the team with chairs or recliners.
• A spirit of caring!

Team captains will need to attend a few 6:00 PM meetings and complete Cancer Society paperwork for participants.   

When your building has a captain designated please e-mail their name, phone number and e-mail address to Steele at:  nowlins@parmacityschools.org.   

The “official” Rally and Kickoff dinner will be March 29.  Organizational meetings for captains will precede this.

Parma Rotary Club Annual Reverse Raffle

You are cordially invited to join the members of the Parma Rotary Club for their annual Reverse Raffle on Saturday, March 31st at St. Michael's Woodside Party Center, located at 5025 East Mill Road in Broadview Heights.

Beginning at 6 p.m. with cocktails and hors d'houvres followed by dinner at 7:30, the night will feature a Chinese auction, $2, $3, and $5 side boards, special prizes and giveaways, and a grand prize of $2,500!

Cost is $120 for two raffle tickets and two dinners, $90 for 1 raffle ticket and two dinners, and $70 for one raffle ticket and dinner.  Table sponsorships are available for $75.

All proceeds go to local charities as chosen by the Parma Rotary Club.

Order your tickets soon by calling 440-212-3131 or sending an e-mail to loscheldergary@sbcglobal.net.  Main Board raffle tickets are in limited supply.   

Thank you for your support and we hope to see you there!

GRINDSTONE KNITTERS GUILD MEETING NOTICE

Date: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2007

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Location: MAHLER MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 118 E. BRIDGE STREET BEREA, OH

The Holiday Fitness Challenge has officially wrapped up and we are now moving on to other exciting programs.  This year's building awards go to:

Highest Participation: Green Valley with 83.33% of the total staff

Highest Completion: 11 Sites tied with 100% Completion: Arlington, State Road, John Glenn, Parkview, Pearl Road, Valley Forge, Greenbriar, Green Valley, Hanna, Shiloh, and Normandy.

Highest Success Rate: 3 sites had 100% success from those who completed the Holiday Challenge: Dag, John Glenn, and Greenbriar.

Here are the individual winners of the Holiday Challenge Raffle! (Prizes will be coming via interschool mail)

RICK RUTH - DAG, BOB COURTEMANCHE - DAG, MICHELLE KONECSNI - GREEN VALLEY, JILL ZAHNISER - GREEN VALLEY, AMANDA PALINKAS - GREEN VALLEY, JEREMY PETH - GREEN VALLEY, DEBBIE STEFFAS - GREEN VALLEY, SARAH BLUE - GREEN VALLEY, LISA DANELISHEN - HANNA, LAURIE MARSHALL - HANNA, DENNIS STUDIER - JOHN MUIR, JESSICA GRUTTADAURIA - LT. COL. JOHN GLENN, KAREN MALINOSKI - PARMA PARK, AMANDA DACEK - PARMA PARK, JANICE PENNY - RIDGEBROOK, ZOEY SEBASTIAN - STATE ROAD, BARB KOSTYA - HILLSIDE, JOHN ROSE - HILLSIDE, SUEANN SCHNIEDER - HILLSIDE, KAREN BOKOCH - SHILOH, DIANA FROBERG - SHILOH, JUDITH POOLE - SHILOH, RAY ROCKWELL - SHILOH, DONNA KOCHLER - ARLINGTON,  and LAURA DUNRAY - VALLEY FORGE.

Thank you all for your participation and support of your Wellness Programs! Keep Track with the Lose, Gain, or Draw!  Don't forget to ask your Wellness Committee Representative about the upcoming Health Risk Appraisals.

Kristin Cushing, Wellness Facilitator

Parmatown Mall Music Performances

Thank you to everyone who attended the student holiday music performances at Parmatown Mall December 13-15.  Each day was well-attended and families and friends showed great support for our students.

If you would like to capture the musical memories from those three days for yourself, the PACT Network makes it possible.

For a limited time, you can order over 100 minutes of music on two compact discs for only $8.  That's right, only $8!

This collection features dozens of students displaying their musical and vocal talents as they interpret a variety of holiday classics.

The following groups are included:

Dag Hammarskjold Choir, Greenbriar Choir, Hillside Choir and Orchestra, John Glenn Choir, John Muir Choir, Normandy Jazz Band, Parma High Choir, Parma Park/Pleasantview Choir, Pearl Road Choir, Shiloh Jazz Band, and the Thoreau Park Choir.

All proceeds will benefit the students and programs of the Radio and Television Career/Technical Class of the Parma City School District.

Orders forms will be available beginning Thursday, February 1 at the main office of each participating building and at the Central Office on Ridge Road.  Orders and payments must be turned in by February 26.  Discs can be picked up at the payment location after March 19.  There will be no mailing available with this project.

Cash, check and money orders are the accepted forms of payment.  Please make checks payable to the Parma City School District.

Thank you for your support of our students and programs.

All-City Orchestra

We are most happy to invite you to the 17th annual All-City Orchestra Festival on Thursday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m. at Normandy High School. The combined orchestras of Greenbriar, Hillside and Shiloh Middle Schools will perform selections from Tchaikovsky's " Swan Lake," the American Folk Song "Shenandoah," "Satin Doll" by Duke Ellington, and "Souvenirs of St. Petersburg."

The Normandy, Parma and Valley Forge Orchestras will join forces to play "Jupiter Symphony" by Mozart, Tchaikovsky's "Cappricio Italien," "Two Inventions" by J.S. Bach, and excerpts from "Grease."

Over 300 ambitious and talented Orchestra students will entertain and inspire you with their music making!  We look forward to seeing you on Thursday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m.

Sincerely,

Parma City Schools Orchestra Directors

Reverse Raffle & Silent Auction for Student Scholarships

Parma Education Association Foundation Presents a Night at the Movies where everyone's a star!

Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend the social event of the year and fundraiser for scholarships!

When: Saturday, February 3, 2007

Where: St. Michael's Woodside - Broadview Heights

Time: 6:00 p.m.-midnight

Cost: $65- single dinner and 1 raffle ticket $85- couple dinner and 1 raffle ticket

What's Included: mouth-watering dinner, refreshing beverages (open bar), DJ & dancing, silent auction items, Chinese raffle, side boards, door prizes and much more!

Contact: PEA office 845-2400

Here is a sneak peek at some of the items that will be up for auction, raffled off, or given as door prizes:

* 1-hour sightseeing tour of Cleveland on Lolly the Trolley

* 4 tickets to Casino Windsor on Lakefront Lines

* 1 week stay at a cottage in Marble Head (sleeps 12-13)

* 6 months of high speed internet from Cox Cable

* Admission for 4 to Great Wolf Lodge

* 2- Orchestra Level tickets from Severance Hall for the performance of Tchaikovsky & Falla

* Autographed photo of Cliff Lee #31, Cleveland Indians pitcher

* 4 passes to any Cleveland Metropark Golf Course

* Ball cap autographed by the 2006-2007 Cleveland Cavaliers with certificate of authenticity

School Nutrition Association

The School Nutrition Association is an association of professionals working in the school nutrition field. It has been advancing the availability, quality and acceptance of school nutrition programs as an integral part of education since 1946. The Association strives to see that all children have access to healthful school meals and nutrition education.

SNA has added a parent information page to its national website. Parents interested in viewing this great resource can go to www.schoolnutrition.org/parent.aspx?id=1981 to learn more about school nutrition programs and childhood nutrition.

PCPTA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

This year, the Parma Council of PTAs is proud to announce the offering of over 120 scholarships from local PTA Units, as well as community groups and organizations, which total over $100,000.

Seniors will attend an assembly on Monday, January 22nd to receive the information and the application process. The applications are due to their counselors by February 9th. Counselors will complete a section and return to the students to finish and submit by Friday, March 2nd.

Students and parents can visit www.parmacityschools.org for the scholarship offering and applications.  The Scholarship dinner will be held on Wednesday, May 16, 2007.

Listed here are answers to some commonly asked questions regarding student transportation.

If you require further assistance, please review the Parent / Guardian / Student Transportation Handbook by clicking on this highlighted link, or call 440-885-2326 to speak with the transportation staff.

Please be assured that we will do what we can to resolve your issue in a timely and effective manner.

Question #1 - Who is eligible for busing?
The Board of Education has approved busing for students in grades K-8 who live 1.5 miles or further from their school.

Question #2 - What do I do if my child is not bused, but I believe he/she is eligible?
Mileage verification is available by calling 440-885-2326.

Question #3 - What if I believe my child should be bused due to a safety concern?
Safety Evaluation Requests can be submitted by following this highlighted link (online form) or by calling 440-885-2326 to receive one through the mail.

Question #4 - What do I do if I have a question or suggestion?
Please call 440-885-2326 Monday-Friday between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to reach a member of our staff.  All e-mails should be directed to kaiserm@parmacityschools.org.

As part of the Dag Hammarskjold Continuous Improvement Plan, our students and staff have begun a Character Education initiative that will run through the rest of the school year. One of our goals is to develop positive character traits in children through successful character education practices. This goal aligns with our belief that character development is necessary for establishing successful interpersonal relationships.

Our students will be exposed to a wide variety of classroom, school wide, and home connection activities in support of important character traits. Each month through the end of the school year a different character trait will be highlighted. Special motivational surprises will be provided for students each month, and powerful visual messages will be displayed as constant reminders of the importance of this aspect of a child's education.

The monthly themes are:

January's theme is Responsibility.

February's theme is Caring.

March's theme is Respect.

April's theme is Honesty.

May's theme is Sportsmanship.

As the year unfolds, students will learn much about themselves and their roles in the lives of others. This worthwhile endeavor directly supports the district initiative to develop The Asset Approach, which is a research-based program to promote the positive developmental assets that help prevent future problems in children's lives.

While Dag students in general demonstrate many outstanding personal characteristics, research indicates that character education is productive and beneficial for all children, and addresses both academics and student behavior.

Community partners for Dentzler School for the Parma City School District’s CBS (Community Business Schools) Program are the Broadview Multi-Care Center and Parma Community General Hospital’s Elder Care Center.  These facilities sponsor many events at Dentzler including an Ice Cream Sundae Bar Award Program and a Penpal Program.  Dentzler students visit their senior partners as the Dentzler Choir performs winter and spring concerts,  Student Council penpals meet their senior penpals and Valentine crafts are made and cookies are decorated at the centers.  In May, the seniors will attend a special student performance at Dentzler for Grandpals’/Special Friends’ Day.  Throughout the year Dentzler students provide community service projects as they create placemats, doorhangers and artwork for the seniors.  This intergenerational relationship benefits both the students and the seniors!

Dentzler School has now updated its website.  You can access our website by going to www.parmacityschools.org, go to “buildings,” go to “elementary” and click on “Dentzler.”

Many of our February activities including our Ice Cream Sundae Bar Awards Program, Accelerated Reader Assembly “The Dazzling Mills Family,” Math Town, Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter Visitation and our International Fair are listed on the web.  Please check them out!

Award Programs

Green Valley Elementary School recognizes students for outstanding achievement and effort.  The criteria for our awards program allows many students the opportunity for success.  An awards assembly is held quarterly to recognize students.  During the assembly the following awards (badges) are presented to students from kindergarten through grade six:

All Homework Assignment Completed During Quarter

Principal’s Stars – extraordinary effort as determined by the classroom teacher

Art Students of the Quarter

Physical Education Students of the Quarter     

Music Students of the Quarter

Outstanding Service to Others, School, or Community

Outstanding Safety Patrol Member

Students reaching certain benchmarks in recreational reading minutes

Classroom awards:  Golden Paint Brush, Golden Note, and Golden Shoe

      (Selected by the art, music and physical education teachers)

Citizenship awards are given in the form of bracelets which indicates which character trait the student has exhibited.

Students receive stickers on their report cards based on the following criteria:

Grades K-3:  Little Sprout Award    

                  Kindergarten * Outstanding effort and citizenship (Jan. & June)

Grade One * Grades of A or B (no grades of G or N)

                  Grade Two * Grades of A or B (no grades of N)

                  Grade Three * Grades of A or B (no grades of N)

Grades 4-6:  Honor Roll

                  All Grades of A (no grades of N or U)

                  Merit Roll

                  All Grades of A or B  (no grades of N or U)

INVENTION CONVENTION COMES TO GREENBRIAR!!

Greenbriar had the pleasure to host this year’s Invention Convention. In it, all 8^th grade honors science classes from all three Parma middle schools were given a project to design and create a new invention. Teams have been working for the past few months and showcased their final inventions on December 15 at Greenbriar. Greenbriar is proud to announce that 39 students will now be advancing to the next level of competition at the First Annual Invention Convention at the Great Lakes Science Center on February 17. Greenbriar also had the distinction of having the most number of young scientists advancing to the next round! Congratulations and good luck to all of the students. The following Yeomen will be advancing to the next round of competition:

Brittany Hertelendy, Justin Bacon, Amy Butterfield, Gloria Bazilevich, Jessica Fitch, Giogiana Lascu,Radu Spinant, Paul Krause, Derek Kress, Alaina Redlin, Alex Haffnev, Jessica Liptay, Megan Stang, Brittani Dougherty, Frank Hendershot, Christina Sparks, Pavandeep Singh, Inna Tirah,Amanda Greer, Sarah Nock, Adam Wirkus, Erik Mild, Shane Page, Nina Kunish, Crystal Hrabek, Tara Ironwing, Taylor Lajko, Shazeb Khan, Andrew Steingass, Brian Klosek, Mark Torres, Neil Kyser, Kevin Hanna, Amira Julien, Lesya Kononets, Vito Colombo, Ryan Kniola, Katelyn Petronick, and Chris Ross.

MASTER/APPRENTICE PRESENTATIONS

Mrs. Kostal’s 8^th grade English classes have been busy working the last several months on their master/apprentice projects. Students have learned a craft or trade from a parent, relative or friend, and the student is the apprentice. The project is designed to teach the student a new skill, as well as letter writing, composition writing and how to display their project in a neat and organized manner. Some of this year’s projects include sewing, crocheting, knitting, quilting, wood working, auto work and many, many other skills and trades.

Students will proudly display their newly learned skill by showcasing their final products at the Master/Apprentice Presentations on January 24, from 6:30-7:30 PM in the main gym. Over 250 students, parents, relatives and friends are expected to attend.

In addition, the International Food Bazaar will be held on this night, offering refreshments, appetizers and desserts from all around the world! The International Food Bazaar starts at 6:00, immediately preceding the Master/Apprentice Presentations. Admission is free and the public is most welcome!! See you there!! You will be most definitely impressed with our apprentices work!

EVERYDAY MATH NIGHT

On Thursday, January 11th the Valley Forge Cluster sponsored an Everyday Math Night at Greenbriar Middle School. 165 parents and children had the opportunity to learn through various games the concepts of our new math program entitled Everyday Math.

Parents had the opportunity to view a video on Everyday Math, ask questions from Mrs. Sara Good, our Math Intervention Specialist and teachers from James E. Hanna, Pearl Road, RidgeBrook, Pleasant Valley, Parma Park, and Pleasantview Elementary Schools. In addition, parents and children played such games as: Coin Exchange, Digit Game, Base - 10 Exchange, and Time Match. Each game assisted parent and child to develop an understanding of various math concepts.

HOLIDAY AUCTION

We are happy to announce the James E. Hanna Holiday Auction raised $838.00. This money will go to Hanna families in need at Easter time. The auction, organized by Mrs. Stacy Dunning and supported by the Hanna staff set a new money total.

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent Teacher Conferences will be on Thursday, February 1st from 5:00 - 7:45 PM.

Since this is the second round of conferences you probably have an excellent understanding of your child's classroom procedures and teacher expectations. However, here are some topics and suggestions to think about to insure a productive conference for you and your child:

Special school programs

Attendance/absence procedures

your child's progress

your child's relationships

Homework/study tips

Summer school options (If necessary)

Achievement Testing

PARENT TIPS ON BUILDING A CHILD'S SELF-ESTEEM

The following practical tips can go a long way in boosting any child's self-concept:

Communicate one on one with your child everyday.

Act as if your children are important in your life.

Celebrate each child's unique personality.

Hold high expectations, but remain flexible.

Don't try to be perfect, and don't expect your kids to be either.

Encourage your children's dreams.

Downplay competition and encourage self-growth

Insist that no one is worthless.

Show pride in your children, yourself, and your family.

Reinforce positive behavior.

Do lots of little things that show you care.

Angel Tree is an organization that brings love year-round to prisoners' children across America and right here in our area. When your parent is in prison, so are you. Angel Tree reaches out to these lonely kids. Hillside's Youth Alive collected donations for these children - the most at risk group in our country - during lunch periods before Christmas. With the help of students, staff and faculty, Hillside Middle School was able to make dreams come true this year.

Hillside Middle School's SADD program once again sponsored a "Giving Tree" where 100 Christmas gifts were donated by students, faculty and staff and were delivered to the Cleveland City Missions on Monday, December 11, 2006. The December SADD meeting was highlighted by the appearance of Santa Claus (Bill - Assistant Custodian) and Mrs. Claus (Linda Radefeld - Media Assistant) -- pictures were taken and smiles were had by all. This annual tradition by SADD always brings out the best in Hillside Middle School.

Hillside Middle School's SADD chapter sponsored its Red Ribbon Week this year with its ever popular Chicken Dance to raise money for St. Jude Hospital. With collections being taken at each of the lunch periods over $600 was raised for this worthy cause with the students being able to see teachers and staff dance on the school's roof to the "Chicken Dance" on Friday, November 17, 2006. This year's dance was highlighted by our ballerinas -- Dan DiSalvo, Bill Viening, Dave Walder and Jerry Manganella. Dr. Dinklocker (PCSD Assistant Superintendent) was also able to join in the fun flapping wings with Mr. Cook and Mrs. Zimmerman. A wonderful time was had by all -- spectators and participants as well.

In appreciation of our cultural heritage, and with great pride, Hillside's Life Skills students shared their ethnic pride through food! A long time Hillside tradition continued as each student prepared at home an ethnic dish to share with not only their classmates, but with staff as well. A typical classroom buffet would have included such ethnic specialties as chicken paprikash, cabbage and noodles, sauerkraut and kielbasi, spaetzles, pasta and sausage, spanish rice, pasta fagiole, beef stroganoff, kolackys, cannolis, baklava, pizzelles, German chocolate cake -- just to name a few -- needless to say, the smells on the first floor of Hillside were to die for! Of the 105 Life Skills students this semester, students shared their heritage from 38 different countries. What a life lesson to realize and appreciate the melting pot of culture in our Parma City School community.

A Learning Community Reaching for the Stars and Reaching Out to Others

Perhaps it’s the inspiration of being named after one of Ohio’s most accomplished citizens and the first person to actually reach the stars that pushes the staff, students, and families of John Glenn Elementary to strive for a few "stars" of their own. A rating of "Excellent" from the Ohio Department of Education is one of the most important stars that the community achieved in the 2005-2006 school year. The rating signifies many years of dedication and hard work on the part of a tireless staff and supportive community. It indicates that the students of John Glenn are academically ready to meet the challenges of an ever-changing and increasingly complex society that will require them to think and perhaps travel far beyond their familiar global boundaries.

In support of our strong academic goals, the John Glenn staff and PTA work together to bring in fun and worthwhile learning experiences for our students such as COSI’s hands-on Science program entitled "The Science of Sports" that came into the building on Nov. 15^th. Students learned about principles of physics as they traveled from station to station manned by PTA volunteers. The picture says it all! Learning about gyroscopic force and center of gravity can be both educational and fun! Another program that benefits student learning through the support of the entire John Glenn community is the First in Math online learning program. Students are able to log into the fun and challenging fact practice "game" from both home and school to improve their skills and win certificates of accomplishment. What a great use of technology for our 1^st - 6^th graders!

The John Glenn community also works hard to instill a sense of community pride and responsibility in students by involving them in opportunities to reach out to others. A successful paper recycling program and the building of an outdoor education center this fall supports environmental education and promotes the value of careful stewardship of our natural resources. During the district’s holiday food drive this year, John Glenn families generously donated over 1,100 cans of food for the needy!

Begun last year in Mrs. Stewart’s 4^th grade classroom and continued this year by Ms. Williams with the now 5^th graders, students have been writing letters to our service people over in Iraq and have developed some real connections with these American patriots. Some service personnel receive very few letters from home and our students are helping to fill the gap. Students also reach out and recognize the sacrifice of local Veterans through words of thanks, poetry, and musical entertainment on a quarterly basis. Veterans of Seven Hills Post 7609 are a part our supportive community and treat the students to incentives for reaching academic and behavioral goals each quarter. They also come into the classrooms to teach students about American history and patriotism.

The John Glenn community feels strongly that partnerships and programs such as these will enable us to continue to "reach the stars " by reaching out to others.

Cut the Ribbon!

Mrs. Godenswager's class celebrated the beautification of their classroom by having a blue-ribbon cutting ceremony to show-off their new floor. The children learned about the building process, while acknowledging the hard work of others who made it possible.

Math Night

Many John Muir families attended an evening of fabulous fun at our Math Night. The teachers presented information about the new math curriculum, "Everyday Math" by highlighting key components of the program. Then, the families enjoyed a night of fun math games together. Math baskets, full of games and prizes were raffled off, and all John Muir families were winners that night!

Careerscape

Students from the Careerscape classes, along with the Cosmetology classes, at Normandy, Parma, And Valley Forge High School designed hundreds of place mats to be used during the holiday season at Parma Community General Hospital. Normandy student Karen Kacenjar is a volunteer at the hospital and came up with the idea.

Renaissance Reward Breakfast

On December 8th, Normandy High School celebrated 374 students during the Renaissance Reward Breakfast. Renaissance students are rewarded quarterly for their academics, attendance, and behavior. The students not only received breakfast prepared by the Normandy culinary program, they also received prizes ranging from Chipotle gift certificates to the I-Pod Shuffle.

Time travel

Mrs. Chismar and Ms. Woehrmann’s second grade classes got to experience stepping back into time with Mr. Cyr’s 11th grade AP US History Class at Parma Senior High School.

Back in November, Mr. Cyr’s and Mrs. Armstrong took the 11th grade AP US History class to experience what it would feel like to live back in the 1770’s at Colonial Williamsburg.  They spent 3 nights and 4 days learning all about Colonial Times and issues people had to deal with during those times.  The 11th graders learned about fashion, games that people played, ghost stories that were told (which were quite gruesome), different types of dances, and were sent through boot camp for military training.  Mr. Cyr, Mrs. Armstrong, and the 11th graders wanted to apply what they learned and share with Parkview’s second graders the same experience.

They invited Parkview’s second graders to experience a Colonial lunch which consisted of peanut soup, bread, corn, ham, and macaroni & cheese.  YUM! After lunch, the 11th graders set up five stations for the second graders to attend.  Each Station had a different Colonial experience for the second graders.

One station talked about the fashion during Colonial times.  The second graders learned that back then people shaved their heads and wore wigs as a fashion.  They shaved their heads because of the lice infestation- GROSS! Another station was set up to play Colonial games using peanuts as great game markers.  A third station was a dance station.  The second graders could really get into swinging their partner. Some of them got so into it they kept falling down.  A fourth station told ghost stories from that time.  Even though the second graders said they weren’t scared we could see a few wide eyes sitting in the chairs. The last station consisted of military training.  As the second graders approached this station they were instantly thrown into military life.  They had to answer “Sir, yes, Sir!” and marched up and down the hallways holding their pretend riffles (wooden sticks). When they were pretending to prepare for battle they also yelled “HUZZAH”, a word the second graders will now be using for the rest of the school year.

After each group of second graders got a chance to experience all five stations, the 11th graders set up a delicious apple dessert for an encore.  Mr. Cyr’s, Mrs.Armstrong, and the 11th grade AP US History class did an EXCELLENT job of putting together a wonderful Colonial experience for Parkview’s second grade class!!  We want to thank Mr. Cyr’s, Mrs. Armstrong, and the 11th graders for inviting Parkview’s second grade classes to experience such an extravagant event!

Santa visits Parkview!

The Parkview classes of Mrs. Chismar, Miss Glaser, Mrs. Johnson, Mrs. Stacho and Ms. Woehrmann enjoyed an afternoon of Christmas activities. Several weeks before, they wrote friendly letters to Santa. On December 19 they gathered in the multipurpose room to make cards and read the Polar Express. As a special surprise, Santa arrived and delivered replies to their letters. Thanks to Miss Schaff and Miss Cogan for helping out.

Parma Park is once again participating in the American Heart Association's Jump Rope for Heart. Students seek pledges for jumping rope. Participation contributes to person student wellness as well as contributing money for heart research. It just goes to show that we can have fun do good for others. Kaitlyn Grafton and John Bushi are pictured here.

Speaking of doing good, the Parma Park Student Council entertained the residents at Park Creek Retirement Community this past December. Teachers and students caroled for the residents. How uplifting to see the intergenerational activity.

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Million Minute Reading Club is hot! Our students have almost reached the halfway point of 500,000 minutes. Our dragon's fire is getting longer and longer!

The New Media Center!

The new media center opened in December.  Located on the second floor in the remodeled wing, it features a spacious yet comfortable setting that serves the needs of today's students. 

Every student that came to the Media center the first week we opened got a raffle ticket, and we gave away a gift card each day, thanks to Principal Cassandra Johnson's generosity.

Parma High Sound Machine

The Parma Senior High Sound Machine has already been busy at work this holiday season spreading Christmas cheer throughout Parma and its neighboring cities. The groups first performance of the season was on November 19th, at Crocker Park, as participants in their Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. They were the last group to sing for an audience of well over 300 people right before the outdoor mall's streets and massive Christmas tree were lit! The next evening, they caroled through Parmatown mall at a community activities fund raising event. During the evening, ticket holding patrons were able to take advantage of special discounts and promotions while the mall kept their doors open extra late.

Our other past performances include caroling at the Starbuck's Holiday Party in Ridgepark Square, various PSH and Community events in the Red Rees Room, and most recently, The Children's Hospital at the Cleveland Clinic. The Clinic hosts a party every year for the families of children who are afflicted with cancer and are forced to stay at the hospital. The event was held in the children's play area so that families were able to come and go as they pleased. During the celebration, children were able to visit with Santa, take a few gifts (all of which had been donated by the community), make an ornament, and enjoy the caroling of Sound Machine in the background. It was indeed a memorable experience for the families and our students alike.

Student Council participated in the Greenbriar Middle School Math Night. There were many games to play and the students did a great job helping the younger students get through the games successfully.

First and second grade classes are headed off to the zoo on the zoo bus. It will be a lot of fun learning about "Fins, feathers, and fur!"

AR update:Pearl Road has read 4,961 books for the year and 2,803 for the quarter. Word count is 42,423,343 for the year and 21,603,065 for the quarter. Keep up the great work!!!!

January 18th marked another PTA general meeting. The event was followed by Game Night in conjunction with Education Avenue. Parents, students, and staff were invited to play games and investigate what makes learning so much fun. The games were then available for purchase. Try before you buy...what a concept! A great time was had by all!

Parent/Teacher Conference Night will be Thursday, February 1st, 2007 from 5:30-8:15 p.m. Hope to see you there!

D.A.R.E. Graduation

Pleasant Valley's fifth grade students celebrated their D.A.R.E. graduation on Fri., Jan. 12, 2007. Lead by the Ohio D.A.R.E. Educator of the Year, Mrs. Jenn Wiles and D.A.R.E. Officer Jim Griffith, the students emphasized the theme "Taking A Stand".

Shari Fitch, Alex Nedeljkovic and Gina Manzetti read their winning essays on that theme. Guest speakers included Mr. Rick Vanek, District Lead Officer, Principal Susan Rueger, and Mrs. Judy Shaide, PTA President. All students participated in singing, "I Will DARE" to the audience of families and friends just before they were presented with graduation certificates.

Top Student Awards were given to Kirsten Maricic, Tiffany Adoryan, and Kinga Falkowski. The top 5th grade class went to Mrs. Dumot's class. Graduates and their guests enjoyed cake and punch following the ceremonies, sponsored by the school's PTA and the 4th grade room parents.

Pleasantview Care Center Senior Citizens Visit

Second graders in Mrs. Terry Dunmire's and Mrs. Judi Kustra's class hosted special guests from the Pleasantview Care Center. Seniors and students enjoyed time together creating snowflakes , reading and just having some winter fun!

National Honor Roll's Outstanding American Teacher Inductee

Congratulations to third grade teacher, Mrs. Kathleen Horejsei for being inducted into the Notional Honor Roll's Outstanding American Teacher.  Mrs. Horejsei is known for the positive contributions she brings to the Pleasantview staff! Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Horejsei on this accomplishment.

Mickey Mouse Celebration

Mrs. Terry Dunmire's second graders celebrated Mickey Mouse's 78th birthday on November 18, 2006. The children did an art project of Mickey Mouse and had cake and ice cream. The children were surprised to see what Mickey looked like in his very first film appearance in "Steamboat Willie"!

Renwood had a flurry of activities in December.

We had a wonderful Winter Concert at PSH on Dec. 6. Our choir performed beautifully as did our orchestra/band students. Many thanks to Mrs. Kammersgard (Choir Director), Mrs. Phillips (Orchestra/Band Director), and the many families and friends that came out to enjoy the evening.

The students had fun shopping at our Santa Shop on Dec. 14. Santa was here for pictures, crafts were being enjoyed, and there were plenty of goodies to eat.

We want to thank all of our families for the donations to our Christmas tree that benefited the Cleveland Pregnancy Center. We were overwhelmed by your generosity and support in reaching out to others.

The traveling Wall of Honor graced our hallway for two days. We hope you were able to stop in to see it. All the names you submitted to us back in the fall were showcased.

COSI came to Renwood on Jan. 5. We started out with an all school assembly and the rest of the day each grade level came down to investigate all the wonderful hands on activities. Many thanks to our PTA for sponsoring this great program and also to the many parents, families, and friends that came out to volunteer.

Veterans Day Celebration

On November 10th the students of Ridge-Brook (Grades 1-6) participated in an outstanding musical tribute to our veterans. This performance was made possible through the efforts and talents of our vocal music teacher, Mrs. Churavy. The students practiced for several weeks a variety of patriotic songs. Their excitement and pride was as evident as their beautiful voices.

Mrs. Churavy took this performance to even a higher level with her glorious decorations and distinguished guests. Our guest speaker was Staff Sargeant Matthew Eck, a former Ridge-Brook student. Andrew Fowler, a student from Greenbriar, played the bagpipes during the program. Mr. Harry Waite from the American Legion Post 572 played "Taps" and "Posted the Colors." The turnout of 50 veterans was very impressive. After the concert, a reception was held for our veterans in the Media Center to celebrate the 211th anniversary of the U.S. Marines.

As an added bonus, Channel 5 was here to tape the program. It is currently airing on Cox Cable Channel 45 and may also be seen when the district's programming moves to Cox Channel 74 beginning January 29. Parts of the program aired on Cable Fox 8 National News on Veteran's Day!

Mrs. Churavy and the students did an outstanding job along with many staff members and PTA who were very involved with this performance. The performance will live long in our memories and enhance our sense of patriotism and pride in our country and those who serve it.

Bravo to our Music Department

Our Band, Orchestra and Choir Winter Concert was awesome. It was obvious that the students worked very hard to put on such a musical delight. We even had a visit from Santa. A special thanks to our music directors - Mrs. Hoss (Orchestra), Mr. Stretch (Band), and Mrs. Churavy (Choir), for their wonderful teaching ability.

Mystery Unit

House B students at Shiloh just finished participating in a mystery unit. During this unit, students gathered information about a simulated "crime scene". The students analyzed the evidence at the scene, made sketches of the crime scene, investigated suspects, questioned witnesses, and drew logical conclusions.

Students also conducted tests on the evidence that was found at the crime scene. When the evidence was analyzed, students were organized into teams to prepare for a trial. The prosecution team chose a suspect to place on trial while the defense team had the job of defending the suspects.

At the trial, students demonstrated their communication skills. Their applied their listening and speaking skills during the opening and closing statements. Also, students utilized their communication skills while interviewing witnesses.

Straight "A" Students

State Road School recently honored several 5th and 6th graders who were "Straight A" students in the first marking period this school year.  They each received free lift ticket for skiing or tubing at Boston Mills-Brandywine.

Students honored were Alex Tober, Kyle Richnavsky, Tayler Paletta, Veronica Liogky, Megan Kasperczyk, Katrina Sorbin, and Savannah Kennedy.

Kindergarten Live As Native Americans

This year’s Kindergarten had a wonderful opportunity to live as Native Americans. Activities such as buffalo hunting, and fishing were just some of the experiences they had.

Varsity Volunteers

Every other Friday, varsity football volunteers help out in the classroom. The varsity students help out with math, reading and other activities. We would like to thank Parma High School Head Football Coach, Beau Balderson for making this possible.

Holiday Concert at Parma Senior

This year’s Holiday Concert was a huge success. Many Parents along with other family members came out to see a wonderful performance. The concert included the Band, Choir and Orchestra. A special thanks goes to Mrs. Tibbits, Mr. Folsom, Mr. Sentz, Mrs. Patton, Mrs. Phillips and Mrs. Betz for all of their hard work to make this possible.

School of Excellence

Valley Forge High School is proud to be an EXCELLENT SCHOOL as designated by the State Department of Education!  That designation is based on student test scores on State standardized tests.  We are EXCELLENT in many more ways than that.  Our students excel in college and career course work in preparation for their next step in life.  Forge grads go to the top schools in the country.  This year we celebrate Hanlin Wan’s early admission to Johns Hopkins University. 

As much as we pride ourselves in academic excellence our elective courses offer students an ability to both explore interests and enrich their lives and love of learning through music, art, fitness, industrial arts and family and consumer science.

It is registration time for next year.  If you have a child in school take time to explore these opportunities together!

Chili Cook-Off

Students take pride in all of their work as teachers judge the “Chili Cook-Off” hosted by Family and Consumer Science classes.

Community Service

Our students are committed to giving back to the school and community.  National Honor Society members tutor Valley Forge and Greenbriar students.  Key Club provides service from serving in soup kitchens to community service projects.  Valley Forge students donate more pints of blood annually than any other school in the area.  SADD participates in greater Cleveland activities to promote tolerance in the school and community.  Staff, students and community members donated $3000 to provide $50 gift cards to feeder elementary families to help make this holiday season special.  We also collected over 6000 food items in the PEA/PTA canned food drive to donate to the Parma Food Shelter.  These are only a few examples of Patriots displaying fine character, citizenship, and respect for their community.