1. Art and Diseño

february
2015
M ETAMORA GRADE S C H OO L
MGS Messenger
In This Issue
Superintendent’s
Segment
2-3
Principal’s
Perspectives
4-7
School
Information
8-11
PTO
12
School News
13-18
Community News
19
Activity Calendar
20
Menus
21-22
Emergency School Closing Information
In the event that school cannot be held because of weather or emergency conditions, the following radio and television
stations will be notified in time for the 10:00 p.m. and/or the 7:00 a.m. news broadcasts.
AM Radio
WOAM 1350
WPEO 1020
WIRL 1290
FM Radio
WCBU 89.9 WCIC 91.5 WZPW 92.3 WPBG 93.3 WPMJ 94. WWCT 96.5
WDQX 102.3 WXCL 104.9 WXMP 105.7 WSWT 106.9
TV Stations
WHOI CH 19
WEEK CH 25
WMBD CH 31
Our school website will also advertise the closing, mgs.metamora.k12.il.us.
PLEASE DISCUSS PLANS WITH YOUR CHILDREN IN THE EVENT OF AN EARLY DISMISSAL.
M GS Messen ger
Superintendent’s Segment
P age 2
The month of February is the last full month of winter. What may seem like a long time until
spring finally arrives, March and April will quickly be here.
Winter Weather Reminder
As a reminder, I will continue to use our all-call system in the event that school will need to be
closed due to weather. It’s the fastest way that I can get the message to all of our families. From
Mr. Payne
the time I enter the data into the phone system it takes roughly ten to twelve minutes to reach all
Superintendent
our families – at least this is the design of the program. There may be times when it may take a
few more minutes. Still, it’s a solid, quick way to reach everyone as fast as possible. School closings will also
be posted on both TV and radio stations. On days when there is the potential for school to close, please do not
call the school. Asking if school is going to be closed is an excellent question. However, so that we can use the
all-call system and make phone calls to the media, we need to keep our phone lines open. Thanks for understanding this request.
I’ve had several inquiries this winter regarding the decision making process for closing school for inclement
weather. The obvious times to close school come with dangerous wind chills, or when the roads (typically in
our rural areas) are simply too dangerous for transportation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides a wind chill chart and is often what is followed to determine wind chill advisories
and warnings. The chart can be found at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/windchill/. Questionable weather days
begin at 4:00 a.m. MGS Transportation Director, Rick Pope, and I are driving rural roads to check conditions.
The four Metamora area superintendents (Riverview, Germantown-Hills, Metamora High School, and MGS)
communicate early and often on these mornings, and County road commissioners, as well as neighboring superintendents are also consulted. We often find days during our early morning drives that the roads aren’t as bad as
anticipated. There are days as well when the conditions make it easy to cancel. A few years ago we received
over a foot of snow during the first week of February. This made the decision to cancel school very easy. Unfortunately, we have days that the decision is difficult to make. These types of mornings are stressful and not
taken lightly. The goal is to be in school, and if we believe we can transport students, school will be open. If
we can’t, school will be closed. Please know as well, that as the school calendar is developed, the district builds
five emergency days. With each snow day up to five, we add days on to the end of the school year. Above all, I
truly appreciate the support I’ve had over the past few years during the winter months.
I’ll finish my comments regarding bad weather days with a note of appreciation. During the cold winter
months, Mr. Pope and one of our bus drivers, Doug Wilbur, are here very early, getting buses running. By the
time students are picked up each morning, the buses are warm. I want to thank our head custodian, Mike
Uzelac, and janitor Dan Smock, who are here on bad weather mornings clearing snow and spreading salt on our
sidewalks. It may sound like a routine task, but we have quite a bit of sidewalk area, and they work hard to be
certain that our kids have a cleared safe place to walk once they get to school.
School Carnival
The Foundation for Educational Excellence Spring Carnival is right around the corner.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 21, 2015! This event is vitally impor tant
to our classrooms and technology at MGS. We have raised over $10,000 each year to
help fund educational items for our students that would otherwise not be funded. One of
the many things we do is have a silent auction. Each grade level selects a theme and
then builds raffle baskets to be bid on the day of the carnival. We usually have at least 2
or 3 volunteers per grade level to help secure donations and put your baskets together. We do ask for a $2-$5 donation. This money is used to supplement the baskets or
offset the cost of building them. Please have your donation turned into your teacher by
January 30th.
Please let Elisha Bachman know ASAP if you would like to help or would like to cochair this event. She can be reached at [email protected] or 208-8133.
Superintendent’s Segment
M GS Messen ger
P age 3
CHANGES TO THE SCHOOL CALENDAR
The change to call to your attention is minor, but one that I need to make you aware.
The last day of school is always determined by the number of “snow” days that we
need to use. Our calendar currently has five snow days built into it, and each time we
use a snow day, we add a day to the end of the school year. The last two days on our
school calendar include a full-day teacher institute, with the last day being a day of
student attendance. As the calendar stands now, the last day of school is a full-day of
student attendance. The change to call to your attention is that this last day now has an
11:30 dismissal for students. Again, the change is minor, but one that you need to be
made aware. Looking ahead into the last few months of school, our scheduled early
dismissals and holiday time off are as follows:
February
 Friday February 13th – 11:30 a.m. dismissal for a School Improvement Day
 Monday, February 16th – School Closed for Presidents’ Day
March – April
 Friday, March 20th – 11:30 a.m. dismissal for a School Improvement Day
 Friday March 27th – full day of school/last day of school before Spring Break
 Tuesday, April 7 – first day back from Spring Break
May
 Monday, May 25th – School Closed for Memorial Day
End of the School Year
 To date, we have used two snow days.
Currently, our last day of school is
 Monday, June 1st, with an 11:30 dismis-
sal. With several weeks of winter ahead
of us, this may easily change. I will continue to provide an update with my
monthly Newsletter articles.
M GS Messen ger
Principal’s Perspective
P age 4
PARCC Testing
Mrs. Costello
K-8 Principal
PARCC (Performance Based Test) testing is fast approaching. It’s hard to believe that this test
will be taking place from March 9 –April 3, 2015. Please do not set up a vacation or make
sure that any appointments are before or after school. All testing will take place throughout the
day. Check with your homeroom teacher for specific dates and times. Also, it is required by the
STATE that students take another PARCC test (End of the Year) from April 27 through May 22,
2015. Additional information concerning this test will be shared.
Additional information concerning PARCC testing is found below:
The Spring 2015 Administration of the PARCC assessment includes two separate test administration windows:
the Performance-Based Assessment (PBA) and the End-of-Year (EOY), both of which will be administered in
paper-based and computer-based formats. The first window will be for administration of the PBA, and the second window will be for the administration of the EOY. A student must participate in both windows for a complete PARCC score.
The PBA administration occurs after approximately 75 percent of instructional time is complete. The ELA/
Literacy PBA will focus on writing effectively when analyzing text. The Mathematics PBA will focus on applying skills and concepts, and understanding multistep problems that require abstract reasoning, precision,
perseverance, and strategic use of tools.
The EOY administration occurs after approximately 90 percent of instructional time is complete. For the EOY,
students will demonstrate their acquired skills and knowledge by answering selected-response questions.
Each test administration is comprised of multiple units, and with certain Mathematics units there are separate
sections. For example, there are 2 Math PBA Units and the testing units (Grades 3-8) range from 50-60
minutes in length. There are 3 ELA PBA Units (Literary Analysis, Research Simulation and Narrative Writing) and Grades 3-8 time limits Range from 50-60 minutes.
***Headphones or earbuds will be used during the ELA sessions of the testing: Students may bring their own
headphones or earbuds if parent/s prefer they use their own. We do have enough of the headphones or earbuds
for their grade level to use during the testing sessions.
Please note: PARCC preparation is a continuous daily process at MGS and your child’s attendance is
extremely important. It's flu and fever season!! Here is a quick reminder of the “Fever Free” handbook
policy. It states: Fever Free: Students should not come to school if they have had a fever (>100 degrees)
within the last 23 hours. Students should remain home for 24 hours after developing the fever, however students are welcome to come to school mid-day if the 24 hours expires mid-day as well. Students should not be
sent to school medicated to reduce a fever.
8th Grade News
We are coming upon a very busy time of year for the 8th graders. They are in the process of raising money for
their class trip which they will take in May, 2015. The high school guidance counselor was here at MGS in
January to share their Explore Test results and to discuss registration. In February, parent meetings will be
scheduled with the high school for registration as well. In February, Jostens will be coming so that 8th graders
can place their orders for their graduation gowns as well as other various items. Tuesday, March 3, 2015 is 8th
grade placement retest date. MTHS teacher, Jennifer Murphy, will be retesting. And finally, 8th graders will
graduate in May. It all seemed so far away for all of us, but is really just around the corner. Information has
been emailed and sent home. Should you have further questions, please contact the jr. high office.
M GS Messen ger
Principal’s Perspective
P age 5
PARCC ASSESSMENTS FACT SHEET
January 2015, ISBE Division of Public Information
Illinois schools will administer new assessments created through the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) in spring 2015. These assessments
are fully aligned to the K-12 Illinois Learning Standards in English language arts and mathematics and emphasize academic rigor, critical thinking, problem solving and college and career readiness for all students.
Third- through eighth-graders will take the PARCC in both English language arts and math.
At the high school level, districts have been given the flexibility this year to choose one of the
following three combinations:
(1) ELA/Literacy 1 and Algebra 1/Integrated Math 1 (2) ELA/Literacy 2 and Geometry/
Integrated Math 2 (3) ELA/Literacy 3 and Algebra 2/Integrated Math 3
The PARCC replaces the state’s former tests, the Illinois Standards Achievement Test (ISAT)
and the Prairie State Achievement Exam (PSAE). Districts may also administer the
ACT+Writing and WorkKeys on a state test administration date at no cost to students or the
district. See the related “High School Transition to PARCC” fact sheet for more details about
state testing in grades 9-12.
This year, we will be using the PARCC summative assessments which are designed to
measure overall curriculum and program effectiveness. These assessments are standardized
to allow comparison across student groups. The PARCC summative assessments consist of
two required components: a Performance-Based Assessment (PBA) and an End of Year assessment (EOY). The PBA component of the PARCC requires that students demonstrate
their knowledge and skills through extended tasks and take the PBA when approximately 75
percent of instruction has been completed. Students take the second part, or EOY, at approximately the point when 90 percent of instruction has been completed. The EOY is composed of shorter, machine-scored questions. Note these are not two separate tests but two
parts (PBA and EOY) of one summative assessment and are not intended to measure the
growth or academic progress gained from one part to the next. Instead, growth can be measured when compared to prior years and when other PARCC assessments become available.
The PARCC system includes interim and formative assessments and those are still in development and expected to be available next year (2015-2016). Budget allocations will determine what we can provide to districts. Formative assessments are designed to provide feedback to teachers on a regular basis so they can adjust instruction and improve student learning. Interim assessments are designed to identify strengths and weaknesses in curriculum
and instruction.
Third- through eighth-graders will take the summative grade level assessment in both English
language arts and math. The high school summative assessments, called “End of Course
(EOC),” will be given at the completion of courses that contain the corresponding standards
rather than at the end of a specific grade year. That means students would take one of the
math exams and the ELA course at any grade, dependent on when they’re taking the course
that aligns with the standards and the test. These two assessments might not necessarily be
taken in the same year.
M GS Messen ger
Principal’s Perspective
P age 6
The Illinois PARCC Testing Windows for 2014-15 will be:
The PARCC differs from Illinois’ former assessment system in a number of ways:
The PARCC system aligns college and career readiness expectations from kindergarten
through grade 12 for the first time in Illinois.
The assessments measure whether or not students have the academic knowledge and
skills necessary to succeed after high school.
Using technology-enhanced items and various other innovations, students will get a
chance to better showcase their skills and results will become available for use more quickly.
Students must analyze information and explain their answers.
The PARCC assessments take advantage of technology to include questions and other
tasks that emulate the type of work that students will encounter in their classrooms on a regular basis and after high school. These assessments help to encourage schools to use technology as a day-to-day tool to enhance learning.
Educators from K-12 and higher education helped to develop the PARCC assessments,
which are grounded in evidence to support college and career readiness. Representatives
from higher education will continue to be involved in PARCC development and implementation.
The multistate test offers a common metric for both educators and policymakers to gauge
student performance on a level playing field. The state and local districts will continue to
monitor other metrics, such as student and school progress, attendance and graduation
rates, school climate and learning conditions.
About 500 districts, 1,200 schools and 110,888 students in Illinois took part in PARCC field
testing in spring 2014. The field test was a “practice run” to gather input from teachers and
students and to identify and correct problems with this assessment system before its first official administration in spring 2015. As a result, students did not receive individual test scores.
Students and test administrators completed a survey about the field test experience with preliminary results showing:
Two-thirds of students taking the ELA and Math assessments reported that they prefer taking the tests on the computer.
percent of students taking the ELA test and 88 percent of students taking the Math test
finished within the allotted time or early.
M GS Messen ger
Principal’s Perspective
P age 7
More than half of all Illinois schools will administer the PARCC online in spring 2015. The
ultimate goal is that all schools will eventually administer the PARCC online. Realistically,
this goal will take a few more years. As schools continue to update their equipment and infrastructure, PARCC will be available as a paper-based test for schools that lack the capacity needed to test online. Implementation of computer-based testing may not occur all at
one time across a district, or even within a building.
Additional information about the PARCC assessments, including resources for parents, students and teachers, can be found at the following websites:
The PARCC website: http://www.parcconline.org/
ISBE Student Assessments website: http://www.isbe.state.il.us/assessment/parcc.htm
PARCC Practice Tests and sample questions: http://www.parcconline.org/practice-tests
SCHOOL INFORMATION
M GS Messen ger
P age 8
Recess News
This is the time of year that the temperatures are so unpredictable! Please make
sure your students have a coat to keep them warm from the chilly, winter winds.
Students go outside for recess after lunch as long as it is 10 degrees or above.
They must wear snow pants and boots to play in the snow. They are not allowed
to stay indoors if they do not have a coat.
Make sure students have tennis shoes for recess. Boots with heels are not allowed on climbing equipment or in running games for safety.
Can we count on you to help???
The STATE requires 30% of parents to fill out their survey.
Dear Parents,
Please complete the STATE survey which is called 5Essentials. Parents have until March 13th
to complete this survey and it will provide an opportunity to give feedback on how our school
is doing. By responding, you can bring attention to educational issues that are working well; as
well, as issues and concerns about our school anonymously
If you go to the MGS website you can read a more detailed description of the purpose for this
STATE survey. Also, at MGS, our teachers and 6th through 8th grade students will take a
STATE survey, too.
Parents can complete the survey by visiting: https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ When
beginning the survey you will need to input your county (Woodford); and school (Metamora
Grade School).
The STATE reported that the parent survey should take 10- 15 minutes. One parent per family
should complete the survey.
Thank you for completing this survey and for being an educational partner with Metamora
Grade School.
Mrs. Costello, Principal
M GS Messen ger
SCHOOL INFORMATION
P age 9
Metamora Grade School Honor Roll
2014-2015 School Year – Quarter 2
High Honors
Allen, Liam S.
Armstrong, Audrey L.
Asbury, Ava J.
Bates, Bryn M.
Bernitt, Connor J.
Blackburn, Kathryn D.
Blunier, Emma R.
Bonk, Samantha D.
Bryning, Bridget H.
Caldwell, Olivia L.
Colantoni, Connor D.
Dean, Margaret C.
Devore, Victoria S.
Drawe, Presley P.
Farquer, Owen C.
Fletcher, Eliza N.
Forney, Payton J.
Greenhalgh, Zachariah D.
Guede, Kate E.
Guth, Andrew J.
Hackett, Kiara R.
Hinshaw, Alannah J.
Ingold, Isaac C.
Keenan, Owen P.
Krei, Klaudia M.
Leeper, Blake M.
Marchand, Garrett W.
Marshall, Brooklyn N.
Matthews, Caden C.
Matthews, Evan M.
Morgan, Riley D.
Nolte, Abbigail M.
Noorullah, Shazain
Olsen, Anja M.
Porch, Keaton D.
Reising, Anthony S.
Roley, Brianne M.
Roth, Eliana G.
Samp, Kiersen L.
Schaffer, Karli E.
Schaffer, Madeline N.
Schwarzentraub, Tessa L.
Simpson, Grace E.
Strehlow, Ashley A.
Udell, Sophia E.
Webster, Emma E.
Wolfe, Phenix R.
Woodruff, Grant T.
Honors
Abbey, Angel M.
Bachman, Laura L.
Bates, Scott L.
Baumann, Molli N.
Beltramea, Olivia G.
Bennett, Caleb C.
Bishel, Lydia B.
Blackburn, Kenneth A.
Blunier, Steven H. Iii
Bonk, Ian P.
Bowald, Willow G.
Brock, Lillian G.
Campbell, Clarisse J.
Carney, Leo A. Iii
Carrico, Sophia N.
Charlier, Evan S.
Chen, Eric G.
Coates, Olivia R.
Cole, Logan W.
Cole, Shelby M.
Cull, Kevin J.
Dean, Simon J.
Desjardins, Drew M.
Dominy, Danielle G.
Dorcy, Emma R.
Drawe, Macey M.
Duffy, Sophie A.
Dvizac, Tea A.
Ehlers, Olivia P.
Engstrom, Hannah M.
Fandel, Madisyn C.
Fitz, Logan J.
Forsythe, Brody J.
Fosdick, Wesley J.
Honors
Foster, Jesse C.
Gardner, Breanne R.
Garrison, Ezekiel T.
Gilles, Lindsey N.
Glueck, Jeanai S.
Gorrell, Walker R.
Grantham, Peyton R.
Guerrero, Gillian R.
Hassinger, Haleigh K.
Haun, Morgan R.
Heffernan, Karissa A.
Heiden, Hannah M.
Hickman, Ryleigh P.
Hill, Brandon E.
Howard, Molly G.
Hunt, Cole R.
Hurn, Cody A.
Hurn, Jared M.
Hyde, Kylie M.
Imhoff, Camille A.
Jacobs, Matthew A.
Johnston, Jenna N.
Kauffman, Sara E.
Klescewski, Ava M.
Klescewski, Braden C.
Kough, Allison L.
Kough, Amanda N.
Krumwiede, Jacob A.
Lambert, Taylor R.
Lelm, Brian A.
Ludolph, Clayton W.
Mccormick, Brooke A.
Mcdonald, Payton L.
Meier, Joseph M.
Messacar, Dylan T.
Honors
Michna, Cole C.
Olsen, Hugo R.
Pearson, Carter A.
Porch, Brendan N.
Poston, Zachary M.
Rego, Michael R.
Reinertsen, Eric D.
Rich, Cole M.
Richards, Nicholas J.
Rickard, Skyler L.
Roach-King, Zoie P.
Schaer, Rylan D.
Schirer, Jordan J.
Segroves, Olivia S.
Shaff, Alexander C.
Shoemaker, Ethan J.
Sparks, River V.
Springer, Emma R.
Springer, Nicholas A.
Stoecker, Zoe E.
Symmonds, Isabella M.
Taylor, Garrett M.
Timerman, Holland A.
Tipton, Morgan J.
Tucker, Carly D.
Vancil, Brody A.
Vogel, Samuel J.
Wagner, Adriana R.
Ward, Cade L.
Wilson, Cheyenne R.
Wipfler, Elizabeth A.
Wolfe, Aurora W.
Wood, Kaitlyn S.
Wright, Olivia G.
Zobrist, Nicholas A.
SCHOOL INFORMATION
M GS Messen ger
Metamora Grade School Perfect Attendance
2014-2015 School Year - Quarter 2
Abernathie, Ciara
Adami, Avery
Adams, Jordan
Adams, Nathanial
Allen, Kara
Allen, Liam
Bachman, Laura
Barker, Zachary
Bates, Bailey
Bates, Jersey
Bevard, Ezekial
Blackburn, Francis
Blumenshine, Chloe
Born, Margaret
Brown, Zachary
Bryning, Bridget
Caldwell, Olivia
Carrico, Anthony
Carrico, Sophia
Charlier, Evan
Christianson, Dakota
Cook, Jordyn
Courtway, Tristan
Cox, Boston
Cullen, Alexander
Droege, Jackson
Dubois, Samuel
Duhon, Cameron
Duhon, Jaeden
Duncan, Ainsley
Duncan, Beau
Duncan, Caylee
Duncan, Maya
Egli, Kailani
Elwell, Benjamin
Fandel, Molly
Farquer, Mackenzie
Farquer, Owen
Fitz, Logan
Fosdick, Liam
Franklin, Sean
Gilles, Andrew
Gilles, Lindsey
Greenhalgh, Zachariah
Gregait, Noah
Gregory, Bella
Grove, Ethan
Harrison, Kody
Haun, Morgan
Hawkins, Brady
Heffernan, Karissa
Hess, Delaine
Hess, Josephine
Hessing, Jackson
Hickman, Ryleigh
Hooper, Anthony
Hyde, Kara
Ice, Rebecca
Irvin, Makenna
Ketcherside, Alexander
Kiesewetter, Emily
Kiesewetter, Kaleb
Kough, Amanda
Krei, Ethan
Krumwiede, Jacob
Krumwiede, Josephine
Lampe, Anna
Lelm, Jessica
Logan, Dalton
Love, Braden
Marchand, Garrett
Markovich, Keona
Matthews, Caden
Maxwell, Erin
Maxwell, Michael
Merritt, Ava
Mischler, Andrew
Mischler, William
Montgomery, Ethan
Morgan, Riley
Morgan, Ryan
Morrison, Peyton
Nolte, Abbigail
Nuest, Landon
O Steen, Kayli
Offenback, Rhayne
Olsen, Anja
Palmisano, Haley
Patrick, Emily
Patrick, Joshua
Patrick, Ryan
Reeves, Makenna
Reynolds, Dathan
Rich, Cole
Riddle, Tyler
Riggert, William
Ronna, Afton
Roth, Naomi
Royer, Kayleigh
Samp, Kallen
Schertz, Jacob
Segroves, Olivia
Shoff, Katherine
Shuda, Hunter
Sickinger, Aiden
Smith, Jedediah
Snyder, Brandon
Sorrentino, Brooklyn
Stamm, Ruthie
Stanley, Nathan
Stevens, Champ
Stevens, Tripp
Stoecker, Merrick
Strehlow, Ashley
Timerman, Holland
Trentman, Sydney
Tucker, Easton
Udell, Sophia
Viggers, Jacob
Vogel, Samuel
Wagner, Adriana
Ward, Cade
Whitby, Carmen
Wilbur, Carolyn
Williams, Brianna
Williams, Brooklyn
Wood, Addisyn
Woodruff, Garyn
Woodruff, Grant
Yoder, Hannah
P age 1 0
M GS Messen ger
SCHOOL INFORMATION
P age 1 1
REMEMBER…..
If your child is absent or going to be late to school PLEASE call the office.
Junior High student call 367-2377.
Kindergarten - 5th grade call 367-2361
Reminder Kindergarten, 2nd and 6th graders are required to have a dental examination. Make sure
that you have scheduled your appointment.
Just a reminder to all parents that by law, a courthouse copy of each child's birth certificate must
be on file at the school. Letters have been sent to all parents who need to provide birth certificates. If you received a letter, please provide the school with a copy of the birth certificate as
soon as possible.
5th-8th Grade MGS Website Information—http://mgs.metamora.k12.il.us/
 All 5th-8th grade parents using Skyward: If you have lost your access information, please email
[email protected] to let him know. He will send you further information regarding access.
 There is a new Junior High homework page. You can access that using our school website under JH Home-
work. Hopefully, this page is a little more streamlined and you know what work will be coming home to complete.
 Our Daily Announcements can also be found on our school website.
 8th Grade Activities for graduation, class trip, and MTHS registration information has a new website as well.
All the information you need can be found at that website. It will be updated as new information becomes
available.
Check us out on the web!
ATTN: ALL PARENTS OF STUDENTS IN GRADES 6th - 8th
Immunization:
Beginning with school year 2011-12 the Illinois Department of Public Health mandates that any child entering
sixth grade shall show proof (see Section 665.250(b) of receiving one dose of Tdap (defined as tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) vaccine regardless of the interval since the last DTaP, DT or Td dose. The HPV
immunization is highly recommended at this time, also, but is not required.
Students entering grades 6th through 12th who have not already received Tdap are required to receive 1 Tdap
dose regardless of the interval since the last DTaP, DT or Td dose.
School Physicals and Immunizations
The Illinois Department of Public Health mandates that all students entering sixth grade must have proof of a
physical done after August 18, 2013, on file in the school office. Students moving from another state must
also provide a physical and eye exam after August 18, 2013. Please remember to fill out and sign the health
history portion of the physical or it will be returned to you. All fifth grade students must have proof of the
Hepatitis B immunization series on file in the school office. Due to the fact that this is a 3 series immunization, it is imperative that you start these immediately. Immunizations may be obtained at the health department in Eureka on Wednesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 and 1:00-3:30 p.m. If your child had the Hepatitis
series as a baby, it is not necessary to have it repeated.
All 2014-2015 incoming kindergarten students must have a physical and vision exam that was done after August 19, 2013. It is imperative that we have these on file in the school office by October 15, 2014, or your
M GS Messen ger
PTO NOTES
P age 1 2
Join us Friday, February 27th, for Open Gym.
A great way to burn off all that WINTER energy!!!
This is a Family Event: NO DROP-OFFS PLEASE.
One night USBORNE Book Fair, in the Library.
Our next meeting will be:
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
At 7:00 pm.
In the JH Conference Room.
M GS Messen ger
SCHOOL NEWS
P age 1 3
ATTN: ALL PARENTS OF MGS
KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS FOR
FALL 2015
In order to plan for next year, it is imperative that all students eligible for kindergarten in the fall of 2015 register as soon as possible. If you or any of your friends/
neighbors have children who will be five by September 1, 2015*, please encourage
them to register at Metamora Grade School the week of _February 23-27, 2015
Please stop in the school office during the week of February 23-27, 2015 and register in person between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. If you have any questions, please
call the office at 367-2361.
We understand the number of working parents is ever increasing; therefore, we
have made all the registration papers available on the school’s website. You can
print the forms, complete them by hand, and return them to the school office. Our
webmaster has even included the dental, physical, and vision forms that will need
to be taken to the medical professionals.
Kindergarten screenings will be held at the school on May 5 & 6, 2015. Information and sign-up will be available in the school office during registration week.
*Please note: A copy of the child’s certified birth certificate and proof of residency
must be presented at the time of registration.
By the first day of school, each child entering kindergarten must have a physical
with a record of immunizations, a dental exam, and a vision exam turned in to the
school office.
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SCHOOL NEWS
P age 1 4
My name is Miss Michelle Lacy and I will be in Mrs. Peterson’s third grade
classroom to fulfill my student teaching experience. This is the last step I will
take in receiving my Bachelor’s Degree from Eureka College. I am from Peoria,
Illinois and I attended Woodruff High School and Peoria High. During my time
at Eureka College I was a member of the Eureka College Chorale and Chambers
singers. I am now a member of Morton Civic Chorus and am continuing to play
my violin, which I have played for twelve years. Music is my hobby however,
teaching is my passion. I chose this profession because I have always had a passion for education and I want to make a positive impact on student’s lives.
I am looking forward to getting to know the students, parents and staff of Metamora Grade School. I know I will have many amazing opportunities and experiences to grow and learn in the days and months ahead. I am very appreciative for this wonderful opportunity.
Hello Parents! My name is Kaitlyn Early and I am so excited to be working
with Mrs. Ernenputsch’s 7th and 8th grade math classes this semester as a student
teacher. I will be graduating from Illinois State University in May with a degree
in Mathematics Teacher Education, and will be certified to teach 6th-12th grade
math. At Illinois State, I was a member of the women’s volleyball team for the
past 4 years. Other than volleyball, I enjoy listening to music, being with
friends and family, and relaxing! My family lives in Missouri just outside of St.
Louis in a town called Wildwood, so I am a huge Cardinals Baseball fan (sorry
if you like the Cubs)! I am so thankful to be at Metamora Grade School and I
am looking forward to a wonderful semester and getting to know your students!
Sarah Gavin is a senior at Eureka College and is student teaching with Erin Foster in the Art room this semester. She is from Brimfield, IL, and went to Peoria
Christian High School. She has gone to Eureka College for all four years and
will finish this spring with her degree in Elementary Education, with an Art specialization. She likes painting, photography, and spending time with friends and
family. She is excited to get to know the students and looks forward to a fun semester!
My name is Andrea Kidd and I am the new 3rd and 4th grade Special Education
teacher at Metamora Grade School. In the past, I worked in the Latchkey program at MGS and also completed field experience in several classrooms. I attended Illinois State University and received my Bachelors degree in Special
Education. After college I had the opportunity of teaching at a private daytreatment program called the Academy for Autism. I am very excited to get
started at MGS!
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Ms. Trotter
Band Director
SCHOOL NEWS
P age 1 5
Fifth Grade Band-What a Band! They will be playing February 19 at 7:00 in the new gym.
Please plan on having your student in the band room at 6:30. Please be on time. We will not
have very much time to tune or repair any problems that may occur. I look forward to seeing you
at the concert. We are beginning to work with a new CD this week. If you would like to purchase a CD I do have some available. This is a huge help to the kids and is well worth the money. It follows along with their book. The correct pitches and rhythms are given so that there is
little question left as to how the tune sounds. The cost of the CD is $13. I have already ordered
several of these and have them in stock. If you are interested in purchasing a CD please send the
money as soon as possible.
Recorders-Our first concert is just around the corner! We will be making our premiere performance on February 19 at 7:00 in the new gym. Please plan on having your student in their cafeteria at 6:45. Please make sure
your student is on time. We will not have very much time to prepare for the concert. I look forward to seeing
you there. Keep working with your student One last reminder, I still have tapes and CDs for your student to
practice with. The tapes are $10 and CDs are $15.
Beginner’s Jazz Ensemble-Due to a great deal of interest in this area we are forming a new jazz ensemble. I
am very excited about this group. This band will meet either during PE or study hall once a week. Students
need to purchase a jazz book from me as soon as possible. The cost is $15 for brass/woodwinds and $18 for
percussion/keyboard. This is not a required ensemble. It is strictly voluntary. Thank you for your cooperation.
Booster Club - The Music Booster Officer s and myself would like to extend a BIG THANK YOU to Mr s.
Sherwood for her coordination of this year’s Annual Fruit Sale! We also extend a BIG THANK YOU to the
Band and Chorus students for their outstanding participation in this event!
MGS BAND SCHEDULE
February 19 4th/5th Grade Winter Concert
April 17
6th Grade Band to Symphony
April 30
Jr. High Band Spring Concert
May 7
May 14
May 15
4th/5th Spring Concert
Jazz Bands at Arts in Education
Spring Celebration
MGS Jazz Night
Jazz Fest 2015
Metamora Township High School
Proudly Presents
Jazz Fest 2015
Saturday, February 7th 7:00 pm
Featuring the
Northern Illinois University Jazz Ensemble
with Donald Harrison
For Tickets contact Mrs. Luann DeBolt
[email protected] or (309)367-4151 ext. # 574
The award-winning Northern Illinois University Jazz Ensemble makes it yearly trek to Metamora
Township High School for Jazz Fest 2015 on Saturday, February 7th, 7:00 p.m. With a roster of students from Miami to Milwaukee, the NIU Jazz Ensemble, with Donald Harrison, has long been considered one of the best college jazz bands in the world.
M GS Messen ger
SCHOOL NEWS
P age 1 6
Our smiling MGS singers are seated in the balcony before their performance in the Peoria Area Civic Chorale's "American Family Christmas" program at Five Points Washington.
Snapshot of our MGS Jr. High Chorus members at their Christmas Concert. They sang an outstanding program which included some crowd favs: All is Calm, All is Bright, Celebremos Las Navidades,
Slow dancing in the Snow among other wonderful seasonal songs.
Anthony Jenkins, Olivia Beltramea, Anja Olsen, Faith Adams, Dillon Wernsman, Franchesca Fosdyck and Mrs. Markle pose in the rec
room of Snyder Village after their awesome
performance for the residents at Christmastime.
Some of our snappy singers of the 6th
Grade Prep Chorus captured before their
Christmas concert. Their smiles say it all!
M GS Messen ger
SCHOOL NEWS
P age 1 7
Back Row (L to R) : Phenix Wolfe, Audrey Armstrong, Brianne Roley, Hannah Engstrom,
Gillian Guerrero, Carly Tucker, Abbi Nolte
Front Row (L to R) : Bre Gardner, Olivia Segroves, Madalyn Wyss, Emmie Brockhouse, Shelby Cole
The MGS Cheerleaders would like to congratulate the
7th grade boys basketball team on their fantastic season.
We would also like to wish the 8th grade boys basketball team
good luck at regionals.
Let’s Go Birds!!
2015 Spring Fever Event
The Metamora Baseball Parents Association is pleased to present the 4th annual “Spring Fever” dinner and fundraiser to help kick off the 2015 Redbird baseball season. We invite you to join us for an
evening of fun, as we recognize the players & coaches, and help raise money for player apparel, field
improvements, and activities for the upcoming season. The event will be hosted by Metamora Fields
on Thursday, February 19th from 5:30-9:00 and will include a buffet dinner, silent auction, and program with the Coaches and team. Please see the “2015 Spring Fever Dinner and Fundraiser” form in
the Team Files for additional information and ticket order forms. BPA thanks you for your support!!
ON DISPLAY @ THE MUSEUM!!!
Congratulations to 8 Metamora Grade school students for
submitting items for the upcoming Stuff exhibit at the Peoria Riverfront Museum! Connor Bernitt, Ryliegh Hickman,
Emma Springer, Mackenzie Farquer, Emma Dorcy, Morgan
Tipton, and Maddie Howard! Connor, Maddie, and Mackenzie had pieces they created in Art class. Emma S, Morgan, Ryleigh and Emma D let the museum borrow thier atom models, each very different from the others!
M GS Messen ger
SCHOOL NEWS
P age 1 8
Annual Spelling Bee
Metamora Grade School held the annual Spelling Bee on Friday, January 16, 2015. All of the
students performed phenomenally.
8th Grader, Wesley Fosdick, competed in tough final rounds with Madeline Howard and Owen
Farquer to become the Spelling Bee Champion!
Congratulations Wesley on becoming the Metamora Grade School Spelling Bee Champion.
Madeline Howard earned the First Runner-Up position, while Owen Farquer won the Second
Runner-Up position.
Our top two winners will represent MGS at the Woodford County Spelling Bee on February 5th
and the TazWood Conference Spelling Bee on February 18th. Best of luck to our top spellers!
Also, congratulations to all of the MGS Spelling Bee Participants5th Grade
Connor Colantoni
Ashely Strehlow
Payton Forney
Alissa Goodman
Taylor Klescewski
Dylan Messacar
Cheyenne Wilson
Brody Vancil
6th Grade
Tea Dviziak
Maya Peplow
Sophie Carrico
Belle Symmonds
Will Bachman
Molly Howard
Zachariah Greenhalgh
Ethan Shoemaker
Bri Williams
Ashlyn Seth
7th Grade
Eric Chen
Ashton Roe
Anja Olsen
Jadah Graham
Owen Farquer
Nick Sprout
Abby Wettstein
Cade Matthews
Kiersten Samp
Keaton Porch
8th Grade
Madisyn Fandel
Wesley Fosdick
Madeline Howard
Samuel Vogel
Haleigh Hassinger
Shelby Cole
Alexia Mata
Noah Berkshier
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COMMUNITY NEWS
2014-2015 School Directories
Cost: $3.00 each
Please purchase one in the office.
Profits go directly for the purchase School Equipment!
P age 1 9
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FEBRUARY 2015 MGS ACTIVITIES
P age 2 0
VIP 2015 activities to mark on the calendar for Chorus members
February 27 (Fri.) 2015 IGSMA Organization Contest: Metamora Jr. High Chorus @ Germantown
Hills MS
March 14 (Sat.) 2015 IGSMA Solo & Ensemble Contest @ Illinois Central College:
6th, 7th & 8th grade Chorus members who signed up for small ensembles and solos.
May 12 (Tue.) 2015 Spring Choral Contest
Redbird Coupon Store
Special thanks should be extended to the individuals for contributing items to our Redbird
Store, Supply Closet or Clothing Donations: Mr. and Mrs. Roger Cantwell and Family,
Mrs. and Mrs. Brian Palmisano and Family; Erin Foster and Family; Mr. and Mrs. Ron
Nolte and Family; Mr. and Mrs. Scott Wood and Family; Mr. and Mrs. Neil Hess and
Family; Mr. and Mrs. Roger Cantwell and Family; Dianna Long and Family.
Tessa Schwarzentraub and Kenzie England were our wonderful Student Council babysitters during the January PTO meeting.
M GS Messen ger
Monday
FEBRUARY 2015 MGS BREAKFAST MENU
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
P age 2 1
Friday
2
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
3
WG Cinnamon
Roll
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
4
Donut or
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
5
Strawberry Mini
Pancakes or
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
6
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
9
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
10
Eggs & Bacon or
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
11
Blueberry French
Toast or
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
12
Waffles & Sausage
Or Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
13
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
16
17
WG Cinnamon
Roll
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
18
Donut or
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
19
Strawberry Mini
Pancakes or
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
20
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
24
Eggs & Bacon or
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
25
Blueberry French
Toast or
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
26
Waffles & Sausage
Or Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
27
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
Presidents’
Day
No School
23
Choice of Cereal
WG Toast
100% Juice
Milk
Breakfast
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News in the cafeteria
Breakfast is $2.00 per day or $10.00 for 5 days or $40.00 for the month.
Extra milk is 50¢ Extra juice is 30¢.
When your child's balance reaches -$7.50, they will be served toast & water for
breakfast.
All Cereal and Breads are at least 51% WG and Fruit Juice is 100%, Milk is 1%
Menu is subject to change without notice
M GS Messen ger
Monday
FEBRUARY 2015 MGS LUNCH MENU
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
5
Chicken Nuggets
Mashed Potatoes/Gravy
Cinnamon Apples
WG Roll
Ketchup 2 pkt.
/BBQ Sauce cup
Milk
12
Chili
Cornbread
Celery & Dip
Pears
Milk
6
A. Cheese Pizza
B. Pepperoni Pizza
Carrots/Ranch
Mandarin Oranges
Ch. Chip Cookie
Milk
18
A. Fish Sticks
B. Double Cheeseburger
Green Beans
Pears
Chocolate Pudding
Milk
19
Chicken Tenders
French Fries
Cinnamon Apples
WG Roll
Ketchup 2 pkt.
Milk
20
A. Shrimp Poppers
B. Bosco Pizza
Sticks
Carrots/Ranch
Mandarin Oranges
Ch. Chip Cookie
Milk
25
A. Chicken Wrap
B. Double Cheeseburger
Green Beans
Pears
Chocolate Pudding
Milk
26
Chicken & Noodles
Cheesy Breadstick
Pears
Green Beans
Brownie cookie
Milk
27
A. Grilled Cheese
B. Cheese
Quesadilla
Tomato Soup
Goldfish Crackers
Peaches
Milk
2
A. Cheeseburger
B .Mini Corndogs
Baked Beans
Peaches
Milk
Ketchup & Mustard 2 pkt.
3
Spaghetti
Romaine Salad
Ranch dressing
Pineapple
Garlic Bread
Milk
4
A. Chicken Wrap
B. Chef Salad/bread
Green Beans
Pears
Chocolate Pudding
Milk
9
Pancake Sausage
Stick/syrup
Ch Chip Muffin
Tater Tots
Apple Sauce
Milk
Ketchup Pkt 2
10
Walking Tacos
Romaine Lettuce/Cheese
Pineapple
Rice Crispy treat
Milk
11
A. Grilled Cheese
B. Cheese Quesadilla
Tomato Soup
Goldfish Crackers
Peaches
Milk
16
17
Spaghetti
Romaine Salad
Ranch dressing
Pineapple
Garlic Bread
Milk
24
Super Nachos
Romaine Lettuce/Cheese
Pineapple
Rice Crispy treat
Milk
Presidents’
Day
No
School
23
Pancake Sausage
Stick/syrup
Ch. Chip Muffin
Tater Tots
Apple Sauce
Milk
Ketchup Pkt 2
Lunch
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P age 2 2
Please note that “B” lunch is available only to 5th, 6th, 7th, & 8th grades & adults
News in the cafeteria
Lunch is $2.75 per day or $13.75 for 5 days or $55.00 for the month.
Children will have a choice of 3 items this year must include a fruit
or vegetable.
A/B entrée will be choice for grades 5th-8th.
Your child may purchase a hungry man for $1.00. This is extra entrée only and will come out of your account.
When your child's balance reaches -$7.50 they will be served peanut
butter & jelly sandwich and water.
Condiments include (2 pkt ketchup,2 pkt mustard,1 pkt mayo, BBQ
sauce cup, dressing 2 Tbsp.), Ants on log celery & SF Butter.
Menu is subject to change without notice.
13
11:30 Dismissal
No
Lunch
Metamora Grade School Faculty
K-5 Faculty
Mrs. Jane Boulton (Kindergarten)
Mrs. Tara Ott (Kindergarten)
Mrs. Debbie Springer (Kindergarten)
Ms. Wendy Vogel (Kindergarten)
Mrs. Jennifer Duncan(Kindergarten)
Mrs. Kathy Nolte (First)
Mrs. Jamie Rutherford (First)
Mrs Jenera Call (First)
Ms. Becky Rhodes (First)
Ms. Megan Bernitt (First)
Mrs. Jean Stine Ratliffe (Second)
Mrs. Heather King (Second)
Mrs. Amber Johns (Second)
Mrs. Jane Fehr (Second)
Mrs. Krissy Peterson (Third)
Mrs. Diane Grebner (Third)
Mrs. Megan Domenighini (Third)
Mrs. Jeanine Hess (Third)
Mrs. Kim Phillips (Fourth)
Mrs. Kathy Steele (Fourth)
Mrs. Marsha Brown (Fourth)
Mrs. Teri Biernat (Fourth)
Mrs. Beth Anglin (Fifth)
Mrs. Jana Southerland (Fifth)
Mrs. Amanda Peck (Fifth)
Mrs. Tara Wilson (Fifth)
Special Education
Mrs. Jessica Karch (Sp. Ed)
Ms. Andrea Kidd (Sp. Ed)
Mrs. Cheryl Oplt (Sp. Ed.)
Mrs. Sandra Freitag (Junior High Sp. Ed.)
Bright Beginnings
Mrs. Teresa Fandel
Mrs. Wendy Schierer
Ms. Jennifer Drake
Administration
Mr. Martin Payne (Superintendent)
Mrs. Cathy Costello (K-8 Principal)
Mr. Tim Damery (Dean of Students)
Ms. Wendy Vogel (Athletic Director
KA
KB
KC
KD
KE
1A
1B
1C
1D
1E
2A
2B
2C
2D
3A
3B
3C
3D
4A
4B
4C
4D
5A
5B
5C
5D
K-2
3&4
5&6
7&8
Junior High Faculty
Mrs. Laura Anglin
Mr. Thomas Koonce
Mrs. Molly Gualandri
Mrs. Cathy Hawley
Mrs. Galyn Cansino
Ms. Liz Charlton
Mrs. Melanie Koppenhoefer
Mrs. Paulette Stalter
Mrs. Megan Huss
Mrs. Julie LeMasters
Mrs. Danielle Buerkett
Mr. Mark Dotterer
Mrs. Amy Ernenputsch
Mrs. Elizabeth Vancil
Ms. Brittany Uhlman (Physical Education)
Mr. Chris Dalberg (Physical Education)
Mr. Tom Benjamin (Health)
Mrs. Megan Huss (Computers)
Mrs. Heather Brown (Speech)
Mrs. Marcy Short (Speech)
Mrs. Ann Marie Markle (Vocal Music/Chorus)
Ms. Dawn Trotter (Instrumental Music)
Mrs. Erin Foster (Art)
Mrs. Geni Jacobs (Librarian)
Mr. Paul Weber (Technology Coordinator)
Ms. Lindsey Larson (Reading Specialist)
Mrs Connie Barber (RTI)
Mrs. Melanie Wallace (RTI)
Mrs. Paulette Stalter (Jr.High Reading Specialist)
Office Staff
Mrs. Jan Holman (Bookkeeper)
Mrs. Hollie Richards (Secretary)
Mrs. Val Huser (Secretary)
Mrs. Elisha Bachman (Secretary)
Web Address: mgs.metamora.k12.il.us
The MGS Messenger
Metamora CCSD #1
815 E. Chatham Street
Metamora, IL 61548
A National Blue
Ribbon School of
Excellence!