NESC Newsletter- DECEMBER
AN INNOVATIVE EDUCATION FOR A BETTER TOMORROW
Note:
To view pictures more clearly while using a mobile device, tap on the photo and then again on the "arrow box" that appears in the upper right-hand corner. Enjoy!
Note: April 8, 2024 is now an E-Learning Day due to the upcoming solar eclipse.
Please plan accordingly.
A Word from Dr. Baker...
Embracing the Spirit of December
Dear Students, Parents, and Esteemed Staff,
As we approach the end of the year and the vibrant spirit of the holiday season envelops us, I extend warm greetings to each member of our school community. December arrives not just as a culmination of the calendar year but as a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration.
This month presents us with an opportunity to acknowledge the incredible resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by our students, parents, and staff throughout this year. Your dedication has been the cornerstone of our community's strength, and I extend my heartfelt appreciation for your continuous support and collaboration.
As we transition into the festive season, let us not only revel in the joyous moments but also embrace the spirit of giving and compassion. This December, let us extend our hands to those in need, embodying the true essence of the holidays by spreading kindness, empathy, and goodwill.
While December marks a time for celebration and joy, it is also crucial to remember the importance of safety and well-being. As we navigate through various activities and festivities, let us prioritize health precautions, ensuring that everyone stays safe and healthy.
I encourage you to take advantage of this time to reconnect with family, engage in activities that bring joy, and take moments to rejuvenate for the year ahead. Let us cherish the collective moments that make this community special and reinforce our bonds of togetherness.
In closing, I wish everyone a joyful, peaceful, and restful holiday season. May this December be filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories for all.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our school community.
Warm regards,
Dr. Baker
In Memory of Ron Frye
Ron Frye was an esteemed long-term board member with the Northeast School Corporation. Mr. Frye's 26 years of dedication and commitment to our corporation have been invaluable, and his presence will be deeply missed. Mr. Frye was instrumental in assuring that all students in the Northeast School Corporation received free textbooks and free lunches. He also believed strongly in experiences outside of the classroom. He loved field trips for students and creating memories for our youth. Thank you Ron for your years of service and friendship. We will miss you.
NORTH CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
Introducing Anna Orsburn!
Tell us a little bit about your background before coming to NC:
I went to school here at North Central Jr./Sr. High School. I played volleyball and softball here. I was a part of the 2015 Softball 2A State Champions. That is one of my best memories here at NC. One of the biggest reasons why I feel like this place is my home. I then went on to play college softball at Oakland City University where I majored in Accounting and Sports Administration. I am now headed towards getting my Masters Degree in Math.
What other previous work experience (education or otherwise) do you have?
I was an accountant for Kemper CPA Group for three years in Vincennes, Indiana. I coached Loogootee Jr High softball and then a travel team in Loogootee two years ago. I moved back and helped North Central softball last year. This year I was the assistant volleyball coach and help coach softball here at the school, and also coach a16U Outkast travel softball team.
What have you enjoyed about North Central so far?
I love being around my coworkers and getting to interact with the students every day. Making an impact is important to me.
What is something exciting you have planned for your classes this year?
To get in the Christmas spirit and to get the students moving every day, I am going to have them find the hidden elf every day in my classroom. The winner every day gets a small piece of candy.
Do you have any hobbies that you would like to share?
Hanging out with my family and my two dogs.
Veteran's Day Program
Shelby McMillen and other members of the National Honors Society prepared a convocation to recognize and give thanks to all Veterans of our Armed Forces. Among those Veterans in attendance was Ms. Liston's 99 year old uncle, Ralph Harding, who served in World War II.
At the conclusion of the convocation, students had the opportunity to thank those Veterans in attendance for their courage and sacrifice in defending our rights and keeping us all safe!
Senior Beta
All of the students listed below have qualified for the National Convention in their respective areas. We had 65 Senior Betas in attendance this year. The National Beta Senior Convention will be held in Savannah, GA, June 16-19. We will begin preparation for that after Thanksgiving Break!
It's All About the Genes
Students in 1st and 2nd Period Engineering classes and and the 4th Period Principles of Agriculture class have been working in a BioTechnology Unit. Students have learned about genetics, traits, selective breeding practices, DNA, genes, Mendel's experiments, and GMO vs. Non-GMO products. Students completed an edible DNA Strand and extracted the DNA from a soybean. A big thank you to the folks from the Indiana State Fairgrounds and The Glass Barn for allowing our students the opportunity for a virtual field trip!
Great American Smokeout
North Central Students promoted the American Cancer Society (ACS) Annual Great American Smokeout. The goal of the Smokeout is to encourage tobacco users to refrain from using for 24 hours to help them realize if they can make it 24 hours, they can quit permanently. The Great American Smokeout is the 3rd Thursday in November every year.
The American Cancer Society is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide support, from questions about quitting smoking to looking for national or local resources to help you quit. To find out more, visit cancer.org/smokeout or call 1-800-227-2345.
Too Good for Drugs
Students in Mrs. Horn's High School Health classes have been participating in the Too Good for Drugs Curriculum. This curriculum applies real-world challenges teens face in high school to explore practical guidance for understanding the negative health effects related to prescription drug misuse, underage drinking, marijuana abuse, opioid abuse, and nicotine use. Students also explore the stages of addiction and the risks associated with experimentation. Students received a workbook and participated in numerous hands-on activities and games.
Lab Time
Mrs. Siscoe's classes have been doing a variety of labs lately. Check them out below!
Chemistry= flame test lab
AP Chemistry= chemistry of copper lab
Integrated Chemistry & Physics= kinetic energy lab
Vincennes University Field Trip
The Advanced Manufacturing classes at North Central took a field trip to Vincennes University to tour the campus and learn about degree options in the School of Technology.
The students learned about VU's design program where they were able to see 3D printers in action. They toured the precision machining department to learn more about their program. Students also got hands-on experience with an industrial robotic arm.
Hoop Shoot
Congratulations to our North Central 12-13 year old school Hoop Shoot winners. The boys winner is Elijah Pritchard and the alternate is Jerek Hunter. The girls winner is Reece Phegley and the alternate is Gabby Ransford.
Elijah and Gabby will compete in the Elks Hoop Shoot contest on Sunday, December 10th at the Sullivan High School Gym at 3:00. If either of them cannot be present to participate the alternate will participate. A big thank you to everyone who participated!
Fall Sports Awards
Volleyball
Kat Ison= SWIAC All-Conference, All-District, Academic All-State, 1000 Dig Club, FCA Character Award
Brynn Varner= SWIAC All-Conference, All-District, Academic All-State, Set Season Kill Record w/358
Sam Secrest= 1000 Assist Club, Set Season Assist Record w/638, IHSVCA North/South All-Star
Macy Drake= Academic All-State
Emma Alumbaugh= Academic All-State
Football
Coy Brooks= SWIAC All-Conference
Lane Hargis= SWIAC All-Conference
Blake Sturm= SWIAC All-Conference
Malakai Urbain= SWIAC Academic All-Conference
Tucker Mitchell= SWIAC Academic All-Conference
Joe Kutch Coaching Retirement
"After 3+ decades of dedicated service to Sullivan Co. sports, I am announcing my retirement from all level of sports. I had to go “cold turkey” or I would have never got out completely. I am retiring from head coaching position in Baseball at NC, which I have held for the last 9 years, head coach of NC football for the last 3 ½ years, and all youth programs which I have been involved in since 1990. I spent 24 of those years serving North Central in some capacity. I was a part of 2 football sectional wins, as defensive coordinator in 2018 and head coach in 2021. It has all been an incredible journey filled with passion, teamwork, and so many unforgettable moments. I am more than grateful for the countless players, staff, and fans who have been a huge part of this chapter in my life. In one of the toughest decisions I have ever had to make, I carry cherished memories and the satisfaction of knowing that I contributed to at least a small part to the growth of so many athletes. It has been a pleasure working with the media, constantly sending updates on games, good or bad. We appreciate the coverage we get in the Wabash Valley, some of the best in the state. Thank you all for the support throughout my coaching career. I have made so many lifelong friends, I would never change a thing."
Joe Kutch
Northeast North Elementary
Introducing Luke Passmore!
Tell us a little bit about your background before coming to NENE:
I attended North Central high school, and graduated in the class of 2019. I then went on to attend Indiana State University and I graduated with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. I did my student teaching at Northeast North and I fell in love with the school. I am so happy they let me stay!
What other previous work experience (education or otherwise) do you have?
This is my first year of teaching. I am currently the 6th grade teacher at Northeast North Elementary and I teach math, Social Studies and Science. With just getting my foot in the door at this school I am only a part of one club, that being a “walking club” that me and two other teachers do everyday after school, Missy and Jane (4th grade teachers). It’s a small club but hope to have more join with us.
What have you enjoyed about NENE so far?
Making a positive impact on students’ lives as a teacher is an immensely rewarding experience. It involves not only imparting knowledge but also fostering personal growth, self-confidence and a sense of purpose. Another great part of my job is my colleagues. The sense of unity and collaboration among my fellow educators creates a supportive and inspiring work environment. These connections not only make the daily tasks of teaching more enjoyable but also amplify the impact of my efforts as we draw upon each other’s wisdom.
What is something exciting you have planned for your classes this year?
On March 14 I am planning on having a PI Day competition. Because of the infamous irrational number PI, on 3.14 I will see who can recite the number to the farthest digit. The one who does will get a pie and might even get to throw a pie in their teacher's face!
Favorite book? Ready Player One
Favorite TV shows? The Office and The Walking Dead
Favorite Movie? Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, the Harry Potter series, and The Hunger Games
Favorite HS Teacher? It was always Mr. Cummings!
NENE Thanksgiving Feast
Northeast North celebrated a Friendsgiving on November 15. All students, staff and volunteers enjoyed a feast together. A poem of thanks was said by Brynn Arnold. Students enjoyed a lunch made by cooks Jeanne McClure, Tirina Fish, and Jenny Himebrook. After lunch, students strutted their tail feathers across the stage or gobbled to win turkey medals. The biggest turkey of them all was Mr. McCammon. He can strut better than anyone at Northeast North. The day ended with students watching A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving!
“This tradition is such a fun day for all of us to be together as a family and to reflect on how grateful we are to live in a loving community,” said Principal McKillop.
Learning About Drama
Mrs. Stultz’s third-grade class at Northeast North Elementary has been learning about dramas. Students were introduced to acting, scene changes, stage directions, lighting, special effects, backdrops, costumes, and props. Just before Thanksgiving, the class performed Gigi and the Wishing Ring, a drama adapted from an Italian fairy tale, and The Saga of Pecos Bill, a reader’s theater.
They performed for our kindergarten classes, first grade classes, and some adult visitors. It was an exciting day, and the students were fabulous! I was very proud of their hard work and amazing performances. You may just see some of these students in the near future performing in a North Central play or musical!
NENE Junior Beta
26 4th and 5th grade students from Northeast North Elementary joined with 900 other students from across the state at this year's Junior Beta Club convention. These students modeled exceptional character and achievement and we are proud to have them represent us. They brought home the following awards...
Brynlee Arnold 3rd place Creative Writing
Brynlee Arnold 1st place Apparel Design
Hunter Lee 1st place 4th grade Math
Hunter Lee 2nd place Black and White Photography
Emma Gilman 1st place 5th grade Spanish
Ruth Scott 1st place 5th grade Social Studies
Ruth Scott 1st place Hand Drawn Anime
Conner Shields 3rd place Digitial Arts
Lucy Meek 1st place Jewelry
Ali Lawson 1st place Digitally Enhanced Photography
Robotics 1st place with team members Berkley Swalls, Brynnlee Arnold, Mason Jaco, and Hunter Lee
Living Literature 1st place with team members Harlow Streeter, Jourdan Wall, Brynnlee Arnold, Emmitt Ransford, Korbyn Floyd, Emma Gilman, and Ruth Scott
A Turkey in Disguise!
Second graders had a very important job! They worked hard at home with their families to disguise a turkey... so that he could safely make it past Thanksgiving!
These great creations by Northeast North first graders had us looking for turkeys. Their creations sure did hide the turkeys well. We are sure that these little turkeys were “saved.”
Honoring Family Veterans
Northeast North celebrated Veterans Day on November 10. Students, staff, and honored guests were welcomed by Kysen Hennecke. The history of the Pledge of Allegiance was told by Makenna Fitzgerald. Bryton Brown read about "The Star-Spangled Banner." The congregation watched a presentation about “Honoring All Who Served” throughout the years and during war time events. The Beta Club recited a poem and shared letters of gratitude for our Veterans. Letters were then handed out to family members that had served in various armed forces. Northeast North was honored to have them attend our celebration.
Thankful for Friends
Right before Thanksgiving break the Northeast North first grade friends each brought in fruits. The fruit was then cut up and put together in a LARGE bowl to have a Friendship Fruit Salad. Students enjoyed creating the tasty treat with one another. Blackberries, blueberries, oranges, craisins, apples, pineapples, pears, peaches were all mixed in. Some first graders were not crazy about the blackberries. Bananas and strawberries were the favorite ingredient for the friendship salad. Thank you to all the families that donated fruit to make this a fun day for first graders!
3rd Grade Crochet
Mrs. Beth Hunt, a dedicated third-grade teacher, goes above and beyond in fostering a unique and engaging learning environment by seamlessly incorporating her passion for hobbies into the classroom. Beyond the conventional academic curriculum, Mrs. Hunt introduces her students to the world of crocheting and sewing, making learning a hands-on and enjoyable experience.
During students' free choice time, Mrs. Hunt invites them into the library to explore the art of crocheting. Remarkably, many students opt to spend their break with Mrs. Hunt, choosing to learn how to crochet instead of going out for recess. This not only reflects the teacher's ability to make learning irresistible but also demonstrates the genuine interest students have in exploring new skills under her guidance.
Furthermore, Mrs. Hunt integrates sewing into the classroom through an annual handprint sewing activity. She meticulously traces each student's handprint, turning it into a memorable keepsake. Students then learn the basics of stitching and stuffing as they create their own handprint ornaments. These personalized ornaments, filled with sentimental value, adorn the classroom Christmas tree and later find a place in each student's home.
This heartwarming tradition, upheld by Mrs. Hunt for many years, creates a sense of continuity and connection among her students. Younger students eagerly anticipate their turn to partake in the cherished tradition, especially if they have siblings who have shared the same experience in Mrs. Hunt's classes in previous years. The annual handprint sewing activity not only imparts valuable crafting skills but also fosters a sense of community and shared joy among the students in Mrs. Hunt's third-grade class.
Northeast East Elementary
Celebrating NEEE!
Northeast East Elementary in Hymera stands out among educational institutions with its exceptional commitment to fostering a sense of collective achievement. Unlike traditional setups, where classroom accomplishments are confined within the boundaries of a particular grade level, Northeast East Elementary embraces a unique approach. At this school, the celebration of students' successes transcends individual classrooms. The faculty recognizes that each achievement, no matter the grade level, contributes to the overall growth and success of the school community. This interconnected celebration not only instills a sense of unity among students but also underscores the collaborative spirit of the teaching staff. Teachers take pride not only in the accomplishments of their own students but also in the collective triumphs of the entire school, creating an environment where every success is a shared victory, fostering a culture of mutual support and encouragement throughout Northeast East Elementary.
Northeast East Elementary in Hymera boasts a plethora of creative and personalized celebrations for student accomplishments, fostering an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie across all grade levels. One remarkable tradition involves the oral counting milestone to 100, an event that propels students straight to the principal's office for an unforgettable celebration with Mrs. Sarah Hannon. Here, students are treated to Mrs. Hannon's one-man band performance, featuring her fictitious trombone and exuberant musical noises, making the achievement truly memorable. Meanwhile, Mrs. Baker, the first-grade teacher, elevates writing accomplishments to a grand scale through her "TV time out," showcasing exceptional pieces on the big screen for everyone to admire. Mrs. Kamman takes a multifaceted approach, celebrating both math achievements and random acts of kindness. Recently, she introduced vintage candy machines, turning moments of success into sweet memories with quarters and Mrs. Kamman's coveted candy treasures. As for Mrs. Ficklin, her open-door policy for former Kindergarten students creates a heartwarming tradition, complete with visits to the "Secret Stuffed Animal Chest." These celebrations ripple through the hallways, touching every corner of the school community, from the cooks and custodians to the upper-grade teachers. At Northeast East Elementary, the ethos is clear – every accomplishment is worthy of celebration, and the joy of success is shared by all.
NEEE Thanksgiving Feast
Northeast East Elementary in Hymera has established a cherished annual Thanksgiving tradition that unites the entire school community in a festive celebration. The event takes place in the gymnasium, bringing together students, teachers, administrators, and staff members for a collective expression of gratitude and community spirit.
The centerpiece of the celebration is a traditional Thanksgiving meal, meticulously prepared by the school's dedicated cooks. The menu includes all the holiday favorites, with a highlight being the delicious pumpkin pie that adds a sweet touch to the feast.
The festivities extend beyond the dining experience with engaging activities designed to foster a sense of togetherness. A turkey gobbling contest adds a playful and competitive element to the celebration, featuring one representative from each grade level and new staff members. This lively competition adds an extra layer of excitement to the event.
To enhance the communal atmosphere, each grade level takes on the responsibility of creating unique table decorations, contributing to a visually appealing and cohesive setting. Festive tablecloths adorned with strategically placed coloring activities add a creative and interactive element to the gathering, ensuring that everyone, from the youngest students to the seasoned staff members, can participate in the festivities.
The roots of this community-building feast run deep, with the tradition having been a fixture at Northeast East Elementary for so many years that its exact inception has become a part of the school's collective memory. This annual Thanksgiving gathering has evolved into more than just a meal; it is a cherished tradition that embodies the spirit of unity, gratitude, and the strong sense of community that defines Northeast East Elementary in Hymera.
NEEE Junior Beta
The Northeast East Beta Club traveled to Evansville to attend the Indiana Beta Convention. There, they represented NEEE in many events and placed in a number of them. Below is a list of students who placed in their events at the State level:
Apparel Design 1st place: Drake Sutt and William Provines
Painting 2nd place: Aria Fiscus
Woodworking 3rd place: Elly Brown
Social Studies 4th Grade 2nd place: Andy Follett
Speech 1st place: Harper Harris
Recyclable Art 3rd place: Rhydlee Elkins
Digital Art 1st place: McKayla Chambers
Mixed Media 1st place: Emelynn Fiscus
Science 4th Grade 1st place: Karsyn Redman
Elementary Quilling 1st place: Karsyn Redman
Math 4th Grade 2nd place: Avery Kamman
Language Arts 5th Grade 3rd place: Rylee Tryon
Enhanced Art 2nd place: William Provines
Math 5th Grade 3rd place: Walter Howell
Accessory Design 1st place: Charley Chambers and Autumn Brown
Robotics 3rd place: Harper Harris, Brian Harris, Brystal Robinson, Rylee Tryon, Piper Padgett, and Brooklyn Norris
Engineering 2nd place: John McClure, Walter Howell, Emelynn Fiscus, Andy Follett, and Avery Kamman
Marketing and Communications 2nd place: Brystal Robinson, Khloe Brinegar, Avery Kamman, Piper Padgett, and Karsyn Redman
Quiz Bowl 3rd place: Hailey Bennett, Joslynn Smith, Elly Brown, and Ryleigh Duckworth
3D Design 1st place: Brylee White, Rylee Tryon, and Ryleigh Duckworth
2D Design (Banner) 1st place: Khloe Brinegar and Piper Padgett
Solo, Duo, Trio Instrumental 1st place: Andy Follett (he also wrote the song he played on the piano!!!!)
Jr. High Quilling 1st place: Korbyn Brinegar
Jr. High Marketing 1st place: Addy Boling, Peyton Lindsay, Bryar Brand, Madison Roseberry, and Alex Compton
Jr High Book Battle 3rd place: Madison Roseberry, Peyton Lindsay, and Addy Boling
Jr High Musicology 3rd place: Jackson McDaniels and Jensen Goodman
Jr High Songfest 3rd place: Bryar Brand, Addy Boling, Madison Roseberry, Alex Compton, Jackson McDaniels, Jensen Goodman, and Korbyn Brinegar
We are very proud of our Betas, not only in their academic achievements, but also for their commitment to helping the community as well. The Betas are raising money for Christmas 4 Kids, a local organization that helps provide Christmas to families who may need some assistance throughout Sullivan County. They are accepting toys and monetary donations in exchange for reserved seating at the NEEE Christmas program, and they are hosting a bake sale at the Hymera Ruritan on December 9th, with all money going to the C4K organization. The club is also making Christmas cards for local nursing homes.
Penny Wars
Thank you to everyone who sent in money for our Penny War this week. We raised over $1700 for Pennies for Presents!
Final Results (1 cent = 1 point)
8th Place - 2nd grade -2049
7th Place - 5th grade -1246
6th Place - Preschool -232
5th Place - Kindergarten 68
4th Place - 1st grade 956
3rd Place - 6th grade 1214
2nd Place - 3rd grade 6084
1st Place - 4th grade 22464
NEEE & NENE Courthouse Visit
6th grade students from Northeast East and Northeast North visited the Sullivan County Courthouse November 28th to see the judicial system in action. They were able to sit in on a morning court session in the Superior Court as well visit the Circuit Court. Thank you to Judge Hunt, Judge Hunley, Prosecutor Mischler, and Chief Deputy Prosecutor Hiatt for allowing us to visit and answering our questions.
NESC WonderLab
November was another busy month, students from both East and North Elementary made their classroom journeys to get WILD here at the Wonder Lab. As students Wonder, Investigate, Listen and Discover here at the Lab one our goals is to always challenge them to have a growth mindset. A growth mindset helps students (and adults) to understand that you can change over time, therefore, it’s important to reflect, learn and grow from challenges. Failure can become less threatening when you are open to accept feedback as a learning opportunity to continue to grow as a person. Growth mindsets help you to become more willing to embrace life challenges whether you are 6 or 96 years old.
The Wonder Lab has partnered with Ms. Lee’s Early Childhood Education class at NCHS. This class comes to the Wonder Lab on the mornings the elementary schools visit. They are getting invaluable, hands-on experience by providing elementary students with instruction and encouragement during different STEAM activities. This is a fantastic opportunity for our NCHS students to become role models and mentors to our younger students.
3 Branches of Government
6th Grade from Northeast East and Northeast North spent the two days before Thanksgiving Break at the WonderLab. Students did activities for each of the 3 branches of government and the Constitution. They then selected an office to run for in a mock election. Students created a poster and wrote a speech to then present to their peers. The final results from the election are in the pictures below including our own Addy who was elected Governor. Melissa Copeland also spoke to students about her time in public office, the election process, and her reason for getting involved.
NESC CANDID PHOTOS
NCHS Yearbook Sales!
Old NC yearbooks are also available for $10 - $50 depending on the year. If you would like to see what is available, please email Mr. Jacob Cummings at cummingsj@nesc.k12.in.us. Thanks!
NCHS Library Media Center
December Events at All Sullivan County Public Libraries!
NESC Athletic Schedules
NESC Job Openings
Click on the button below for information on current NESC job openings⤵️
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Thanks to all NCHS Student Media students and NESC teachers/staff who contributed to this month's newsletter! Great job everyone!