Lockland Schools eNews
September, 2024
Message from the Superintendent
Dear Lockland Schools Families and Community:
Welcome back to the start of the 2024-2025 school year! We are excited to work with you and your child(ren) and are looking forward to a wonderful year of growth and learning.
Our goal is to Equip our students for success in school and life, Engage them in relevant and meaningful learning opportunities, and Motivate them to take ownership of their learning and take action to apply it in a meaningful way that allows them to support themselves, their families, and their community. We are excited about the plans we have for this school year that will allow us to continue to focus on this work and also improve the outcomes of those that we serve.
Pardon Our Dust!
As we welcome our students back to school, we continue to work through the K-12 Main Campus construction project in partnership with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission, Pepper Construction and SHP Architecture and Engineering. As you will see in the pictures included below, significant progress has been made on the project and the end product will yield an environment that is far more conducive to teaching and learning for our students and staff.
We anticipate that all students in grades PK-12 will return to Main Campus in August 2025. While the building will be substantially completed at that time, site work and demolition will be ongoing through the Spring of 2026.
Mark Your Calendars!
As you will see in the remainder of this edition of our eNews, there is always something happening within the Lockland Local School District! Make a note of upcoming athletic events, our second annual Student Success Fair in October, and other activities that may pique your interest and allow you to support our students, families, schools, district, and community!
Thank you!
As always, thank you for your continued support of the Lockland Local School District. Lockland Schools are a wonderful place to teach and learn because of our people: students, families, staff, and community members. It is a privilege to serve and I hope you will contact me if I can ever be of assistance. I can be reached at (513) 563-5000 extension 903 or via email at: bob.longworth@locklandschools.org
Sincerely,
Bob Longworth, Superintendent
Lockland Local School District
Mechanical Systems and Duct Work
Framing and Drywall
Concrete and Masonry
Exterior and Site Work
Assistant Superintendent Justin Gibson Explains 'One Plan'
Each district in the state of Ohio is required to complete a One Plan which captures all district and school planning needs over a three-year period. Below are the goals and objectives guiding Lockland School District over the course of our three-year period.
Goal #1
By 06/30/2026 we will improve the performance of Student and Family engagement, All Grades students at/in Lockland Local to increase 30.00 % in attendance at school events using participation rates (i.e. sign-in sheets, checklists, permission list, etc.).
Student Measure
Every Semester, family engagement - participation rates (i.e. sign-in sheets, checklists, permission list, etc.) of All Students will be monitored by District Leadership Team, with an annual improvement of increase 10.00 % resulting in an overall improvement of increase 30.00 % by the end of the plan.
Adult Measures
Every Semester, communication with families of All Staff will be monitored by the District Leadership Team, with an annual improvement of 10.00 % resulting in an overall improvement of 30.00 % by the end of the plan.
Every Semester, participation at- school events of All Staff will be monitored by District Leadership, with an annual improvement of 10.00 % resulting in an overall improvement of 30.00 % by the end of the plan.
By 06/30/2026 we will improve the performance of All Students, All Grades students at/in Lockland Local to increase 15.00 % in ELA, Math, Behavior, and Graduation using Screeners (i.e. EWIMS, iReady, Acadience, SSIS CoLab, etc.).
Goal #2
By 06/30/2026 we will improve the performance of All Students, All Grades students at/in Lockland Local to increase 15.00 % in ELA, Math, Behavior, and Graduation using Screeners (i.e. EWIMS, iReady, Acadience, SSIS CoLab, etc.).
Student Measures
By 06/30/2026 we will improve the performance of All Students, All Grades students at/in Lockland Local to increase 15.00 % in ELA, Math, Behavior, and Graduation using Screeners (i.e. EWIMS, iReady, Acadience, SSIS CoLab, etc.).
Every Semester, Math - Screeners of All Students will be monitored by the District Leadership Team, with an annual improvement of 5.00 % resulting in an overall improvement of 15.00 % by the end of the plan.
Every Semester, Graduation - EWIMS of All Students will be monitored by the District Leadership Team, with an annual improvement of 5.00 % resulting in an overall improvement of 15.00 % by the end of the plan.
Every Semester, Behavior- Screeners of All Students will be monitored by the District Leadership Team, with an annual improvement of 5.00 % resulting in an overall improvement of 15.00 % by the end of the plan.
Adult Measures
Every 365 days, English Language Arts - Fidelity Instrument of English Language Arts Teachers will be monitored by the District Leadership Team, with an overall improvement of 10.00 % by the end of the plan.
Every 365 days, Math - Fidelity Instrument of Math Teachers will be monitored by the District Leadership Team, with an overall improvement of 10.00 % by the end of the plan.
Every 365 days, EWIMS- Fidelity Instrument of Middle School Staff and High School Staff will be monitored by the District Leadership Team, with an overall improvement of 10.00 % by the end of the plan.
Every 365 days, Behavior - Fidelity Instrument of All Staff will be monitored by the District Leadership Team, with an overall improvement of 10.00 % by the end of the plan.
Follow the Panther Way! All Lockland Students Learn School Expectations
What is PBIS? Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports is an evidence-based approach to teaching and supporting positive behaviors. A key strategy of PBIS is prevention. Through instruction and regular practice, all teachers and staff members use a consistent set of behavior expectations (Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Give Effort) and rules for every area of the school.
How does it work? Throughout the school year, students are taught how to behave according to the Panther Way. Teachers will help students learn what the expectations “look” and “sound” like in every setting of the school day. These lessons are re-taught and reinforced throughout the school year, and become a regular part of our instruction.
PBIS Rewards: Lockland uses PBIS Rewards, a classroom management app, to acknowledge students for showing positive behaviors. Students can earn points to use toward purchasing items and experiences in the online district Panther Store! Students can use their points at the classroom and building level toward other incentives, too!
Tips for Home
Review the Panther Way expectations with your child
Ask your child how they showed the Panther Way at school each day
Set behavioral expectations in your home
Provide positive feedback at home for making good choices
Curriculum: Ms. Fessel Offers Glimpse into Our New Curricula & Tips for Success
As the new school year begins, we are excited to welcome teachers, students, parents, and community members back to another year of learning. Our goal is to provide a rich, engaging, and effective educational experience that meets the needs of each student in our community. Each month we will share the key highlights of one of the newly adopted curricula with the community. Here’s a glimpse of what we have in store and some tips to help everyone get ready for the school year ahead.
Curriculum Enhancements
We’ve added new courses to provide a well-rounded education for students in grades K-12. In addition to our current enhancements, we are dedicating time this school year to planning the expansion of our course offerings for the next academic year. We believe in continuously evolving to meet the needs and interests of our students.
To address the diverse needs of our students and accelerate their learning, we have significantly expanded our literacy supports.
Newly Adopted Curriculum
English Language Arts K-8
This year, we are thrilled to introduce our newly adopted curriculum, Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) and English Language Arts (ELA) for grades K-8. This is designed to enhance learning outcomes in literacy and better prepare our students for future success.
Math K-5
This year we will be piloting Amplify Desmos Math in kindergarten through 5th grade. This program helps teachers cultivate a classroom of eager, collaborative learners by starting with student ideas and building to robust grade-level learning for every student, every day.
Math 6 - Algebra I
This year we are happy to announce we have adopted Amplify Desmos Math for our sixth through eighth grade classrooms as well as our Algebra I course. Amplify Desmos Math is a problem-based approach that gets results by developing deep conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and application.
Chemistry, Physics, and Physical Science
We are happy to announce we will be implementing the Inspire Science High School series for Chemistry, Physics, and Physical Science. Inspire Science empowers students to explore and learn from our world’s amazing natural phenomena in exciting and hands-on ways to spark their imagination and inspire success.
Anatomy and Physiology
Body Structures and Functions – Anatomy and Physiology, 14th edition, has been adopted for our Anatomy and Physiology course. Body Structures and Functions provides a thorough overview of the basics required for the study of the human body and how it functions. Students engage in learning activities to understand anatomy basics and clinical applications.
Tips for a Successful School Year
For Students:
1. Engage Actively: Participate in class discussions, ask questions, and seek help when needed. Your active involvement is key to a successful learning experience.
2. Manage Time Wisely: Use planners or digital tools to organize your assignments and extracurricular activities. Prioritize tasks and break them into manageable steps.
3. Embrace Challenges: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Take on new challenges and view mistakes as learning opportunities.
For Parents:
1. Stay Informed: Keep up with school communications, including newsletters, emails, and parent-teacher meetings. Understanding what’s happening in your child’s education is crucial.
2. Support Learning at Home: Create a positive and structured environment for homework and study time. Encourage reading and provide resources that stimulate curiosity and learning.
3. Encourage Independence: Foster your child’s independence by allowing them to take responsibility for their learning. This includes setting their own goals and managing their time effectively.
Community Engagement
1. Volunteering and Support: We encourage parents and community members to get involved in school activities and events. Your participation enriches the educational experience and strengthens our community bonds.
2. Attend School Events: From wellness fairs to sports competitions, attending school events is a great way to support our students and celebrate their achievements.
As we embark on this new academic year, we are committed to providing a dynamic and supportive learning environment. We look forward to partnering with you to make this year a resounding success.
Welcome back to school, and here’s to a fantastic year of learning and growth!
K-4 Corner: Welcome Back to School!!!!
We are excited to be back in school! Students came in ready to learn! We were happy to have community partners Mr. Terrence Bell, Mr. James Smith, Mr. Keith Ray, and his daughter Summer come out to greet the students on the first day of school! Families were excited to bring their children for the start of the school year!!!
We welcomed School Resource Officer Doughman!
Attendance Competitions
We have started our attendance competitions again this year! For the first week of school, Mrs. Childers and Ms. Hulgin won the competition. The top two classes with the highest attendance percentage get to keep the attendance trophy for one week! For the second week of school, Mrs. Lacecwell’s class had 100% attendance and won the Perfect Attendance Trophy! Ms. McLaughlin and Mrs. Young’s classes shared 2nd place! They also received trophies for the week!
Meet Week 1 Winners
Meet Week 2 Winners!
Firefighters and SRO Doughman play with the students at recess!
We have been so fortunate to have our first responders come out to play with our students! This relationship is very positive and allows our students to see them, be with them, and have fun with them. These are people they know, and can build trust with them so if they are ever in a situation where they need help, they can depend on our SRO or their firefighter friends!
The Panther Way
The Panther Way is how we do business at Lockland Elementary. Our expectations are Be Respectful, Be Responsible, and Give Effort. At the beginning of the year, we spend a lot of time teaching what that looks like in the classroom and in the common areas of the building (restroom, hallway, Multi-Purpose room, cafeteria, office, outside for recess.) We also teach expectations for emergency situations, like fire drills and lockdowns. We practice to be prepared. Below are some snapshots of the expectations!
Please review with your child. Discuss the same expectations with your child to determine what Be Respectful, Be Responsible and Give Effort looks like at home.
Final Forms
Please make sure that your Final Forms - https://lockland-oh.finalforms.com/ - has been updated for the school year. We have many exciting learning experiences planned and if Final Forms isn’t updated, your child will not be able to participate! Please update by August 30th!
Let’s make it a great year!!!!
5-12 Corner: Welcome Back!
Welcome back to the 2024-25 school year. We’re excited you are a part of the Lockland Family. A couple of things to remember:
Doors open at 8 and school starts at 8:30. Students arriving on time ensures a great day of learning.
Please make sure you have completed your child’s information in Final Forms - https://lockland-oh.finalforms.com/ Please call the main office for login information - 513-563-5000.
This year, we are continuing our commitment to academic excellence. Our teachers have prepared an engaging and challenging curriculum designed to inspire critical thinking and creativity.
Important Dates to Remember
No School: Staff PD Day, September 20th
Early Release Day: September 25th, at 1:00 p.m.
Mark your calendars and stay informed by checking our school website regularly for updates.
Safety and Wellness
The safety and well-being of our students are our top priorities. This year, we are enhancing our safety protocols with the following measures:
Enhanced Security: We have a school SRO who will be on main campus daily
Student Wellness Resources: We are expanding our student wellness department, including the availability of school counselors and partnership with local mental health organizations.
I am excited about the year ahead and confident that, together, we can make it a memorable and successful one. Let’s work hand in hand to support our students in achieving their fullest potential.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at karen.clemons@locklandschools.org or any member of our administration team. We are here to support you and ensure that Lockland remains a place where every student can thrive.
Athletics: Fall Sports Season Is Underway!
The Fall sports season is underway with Cheer, Football, Soccer and Volleyball all in action. You can check stats, game results and schedules by visiting the Miami Valley Conference website at: https://miamivalleyconference.com/
As we draw closer to the Winter athletic season, make sure your child is staying up on their academics in order to be eligible to participate. They will also need to have a valid physical on file. Please check Final Forms for physical expiration dates and to be sure all forms are signed. You can monitor your child’s academics in Progress Book.
We are in the process of gauging interest in re-establishing a Track program. If your child would be interested, please send Mr. Payne (jon.payne@locklandschools.org) an email with their name, grade, and the events that they are interested in (sprints, relays, distance, hurdles, long jump, high jump, discus, and/or shot put).
Also, did you know that 5th and 6th graders can participate on our Junior High teams (Cheer, Basketball, Football, Volleyball). They just need to be academically eligible and have a valid physical on file. If interested or if you have questions, email Mr. Payne (jon.payne@locklandschools.org)
Sports Program Updates
Football
The Lockland Panthers Football Team lost Friday Night (August 23) to a very good Ludlow, Kentucky team. The bright spot of the night was seeing several Seniors and Freshmen step up and play key roles. This week (August 30), the Panthers travel to Bethel-Tate High School to battle the Tigers.
Soccer
The varsity soccer team has played 2 games so far. The team is starting to look good and their hard work from open fields and camps is paying off. Senior Night for Soccer is September 16 vs. Gamble.
Girls Basketball
The varsity girls basketball team will hold its annual Free Throw Challenge Fundraiser presented by Sugar Shack on Saturday, Sept. 7th, in the middle school gym at Lockland. Each student-athlete and coach collects sponsorships for each free throw made out of 100. So, if you pledge .25 cents per made shot and the player you’re sponsoring makes 50 free throws, your pledge = $12.50. This fundraiser will be used to purchase game day gear and allow us to attend a camp next summer. Feel free to reach out to Coach Uhrig if you’re interested in sponsoring a player or coach in the event - brandon.uhrig@locklandschools.org ! This event will also be live-streamed on YouTube from Mr. Uhrig's YouTube Channel!
Boys Basketball
Welcome back students! We hope for a wonderful school year.
Lockland Boys Basketball is ready for a new school year and excited for the 2024-25 season.
On Friday, September 6th, at 3:05, there will be a meeting in the Multipurpose gym for anyone interested in playing basketball who is not currently playing football. We plan to have another meeting at a later date for those who are currently playing football.
We plan to continue off-season workouts and open gyms starting September 8th. Dates and times will be provided at the meeting on September 6th. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. You can contact me by email at corey.farley@locklandschools.org. #LoveLockland #PantherPride #DefendtheLAND
Softball
The softball team is excited for the upcoming season after last season's district semi-final run. Conditioning will begin in late December and early January. Anyone interested in playing softball this year should see Coach Coduti.
Student Wellness Department
About the Department
We support the following for ALL students:
- Social and Emotional Needs
- Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
- Mental Health
- Post-Secondary / Career Planning
- Student Success and Graduation Planning
- Community Resources, Needs, and Services
- Family & Community Engagement
Learn more here!
Meet the Team
Attendance Matters!
To kick off the school year, we want to make sure you know that getting into the habit of daily attendance is more important than ever. A student who misses just two to three days of school per month can be chronically absent.
Good attendance helps to:
- Build routines that help reduce stress.
- Make new friends.
- Connect with peers and teachers.
- Engage in learning.
- Gain access to meals.
By working together, we can keep our students in the game and set them up for success! At home, at school and in your community, families and caregivers make a difference in student behavior and can be positive role models for attendance. Please notify your student's school office ASAP if your student will be absent. Please send in documentation - Parent note and/or official note (doctor, court, etc.) Don’t forget! Tardies and early dismissals count; every minute missed is counted against absence hours.
Lockland Annex building (K-4th grade) - 513-930-2001
Lockland Main campus (5-12th grade) - 513-563-5000
Find ways to support your child’s attendance here!
Upcoming Community Events
Resources
Help us serve you better! The Lockland Wellness Department recently partnered with Mary Magdalen House - a shower and laundry facility, to better meet community needs. Please complete this brief survey about your current laundry needs to help us plan for the 24-25 school year. All responses are anonymous. Find the survey here.
Support in Lockland - Valley Interfaith
It is our mission to partner with our community to provide necessary resources and build self-sustainability. By doing so, we strive to reduce the risk of hunger, crisis, and harm/victimization many of our most vulnerable community members face. Check out the programs Valley Interfaith has to offer here.
Do you need Health Insurance?
The goal of The HealthCare Connection’s Outreach and Enrollment program is to assist individuals and families in signing up for the health insurance that is right for them, whether it be Medicaid or a private plan from the Health Insurance Marketplace.
THCC has Certified Application Counselors at Lincoln Heights and Mt. Healthy to help you and these services are free of charge!
To schedule an appointment: Lincoln Heights, call 513-483-3041, or Mt. Healthy, call 513-728-3997
What to bring: Photo identification, Proof of income, and the Social Security numbers for yourself & other members of your household.
Crisis Support
911 should be called if your child is experiencing a medical emergency or a life-threatening mental health crisis. If they are experiencing a non-life threatening mental health crisis:
PIRC
513-636-4124
The Psychiatric Intake Response Center (PIRC), located within Cincinnati Children’s, is the admission and evaluation center for all psychiatric services, including the Bridge Clinic.
Urgent Care, Best Point Behavioral Health by The Children’s Home
513-527-3040
For children, teens and young adults up to age 21, the urgent care helps those who need immediate social or emotional care not rising to the level of going to the hospital.
Monday-Friday 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
September/October Calendar
September 12 - Board of Education Meeting, 4 p.m.
September 16 - Soccer Senior Night
September 20 - Teacher Professional Development - No School for Students
September 25 - Early Release Day for Students at 1 p.m.
September 26 - Board of Education Meeting, 4 p.m.
October 1 - Volleyball Senior Night
October 4 - Homecoming Football Game vs. New Miami
October 5 - Homecoming Dance
October 10 - Early Release Day for Students at 1 p.m.
October 11 - Teacher Professional Development - No School for Students
October 14 - Columbus Day, No Staff/Students
October 17 - 2nd Annual Student Success Fair, 5:30-7 p.m. Main Campus gym/Multi-Purpose Room
October 24 - Board of Education Meeting, 4 p.m.
October 30 - Early Release Day for Students at 1 p.m.