I remember when we returned from Winter Break I said how nice it was to be back into a routine. So much for that! I know these cancellations (although perhaps a welcome additional break) just compact schedules at a very busy time of year. But, as we always have, we’ll figure it out and get it all done.
Several of you have asked me about the state budget cuts and what it will mean to Ohio Hi-Point. All I can say at this point is that the cuts the Governor has made public for the next biennium budget are still “proposed.” However, our Adult Education Department has withstood a series of cuts over the past two years, and I commend Darlene Chiles and her staff for being proactive in absorbing these cuts while still remaining in the black. It hasn’t been without some pain, but this department remains in a position of financial strength. District-wide, we’re certainly looking closely at the overall budget to have a contingency plan in place in case the new cuts should come at us fast and hard (what’s that commercial say—“Life comes at you fast!”) What we don’t know is the amount the cuts will add up to. We’re also hearing recently of possible federal aide, but that is uncertain as well. Governor Strickland will be delivering his State of the State Address on January 28 at noon; perhaps we will have more definitive information after that. What we do know is that we certainly won’t see increases in funding. And what I assure you is that as soon as I know what we’re dealing with, you’ll know.
Our Alumni and Friends Committee met on Wednesday, and we’re well under way with plans for our 35th Anniversary Homecoming plans! Details are being firmed up (stay tuned—Shane will be sharing more), but we definitely will be inducting the next class of Distinguished Alumni into our Showcase of Success. This is such a wonderful way to recognize those who have completed our programs and gone on to notable success, and the winners also serve as shining examples to our current students that they can accomplish great things! Please, if you know of a graduate from 1999 or later who has gone on to distinguished success in his or her career field, go online to fill out a nomination form (or contact Shane Haggerty for a form). We know those distinguished alumni are out there!
January is School Board Recognition Month, and our annual All-Boards Banquet was held on Wednesday evening as a thank-you to the Board Members from all our 17 participating school districts and ESC’s. The weather was lousy and the turnout was small; but those who attended heard a wonderful presentation from our keynote speaker, Logan Co. Sheriff Andy Smith. Andy started out as an education major before veering off into law enforcement, and he really drove home the importance of investing resources into our educational system and our young people. He spent several years heading up the Juvenile Detention Center; and he knows, as we do, that when you work with young people sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. But our youth are always worth the effort! Thanks to my administrative team, Shane Haggerty, and Beth Kennaw for making this event a success.
You couldn’t turn on the TV yesterday or today without hearing about the US Airways plane crash in the Hudson River. What an amazing story! Certainly the pilot is a hero and a perfect example of competent execution under unbelievable pressure. But I’m also struck by the tremendous teamwork that resulted in not one single life being lost. I got chills up my spine watching how quickly those ferryboats were on the spot to rescue passengers. We at OHP know that it takes teamwork to be successful, and this story illustrates that sometimes you start your day not even knowing you’ll be part of the team. But by being watchful to others’ needs, you can play a vital (and maybe even life-saving) role. Let’s all remember that next time we get out of bed!
I hope you’ll all take some time on Monday to commemorate Martin Luther King Day in your own way. This holiday seems especially poignant to me at this point in our nation’s history. We’re facing some of the toughest times, maybe the toughest times, we’ve seen in our lifetimes. But we’re also witnessing some of the most amazing events that should make us proud of our country. The “dream” that Dr. King had has certainly become a reality with our new President being inaugurated next week. Regardless of your political affiliation, what an amazing country we live in where each of us has a voice and can exercise the right to even have an affiliation without fear. That’s cause for celebration!
Have a wonderful weekend and stay warm!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Friday, January 9, 2009
January 9, 2009
First of all, welcome back and Happy New Year! I hope you all enjoyed some restful time off and enjoyed some down time with family and other loved ones. I don’t know about you, but the thing I enjoy most about the holidays is the fact that everything and everyone slows down for a bit. (And I have to admit, it was nice not having to worry about what was going on with the weather in the mornings!) Even here at work, I was able to catch up on some projects that needed a “big chunk” of time to work through while it was nice and quiet.
I hope Santa was good to all of you. My favorite gift was a bag full of suet cakes from my niece—the birds have been having a feeding frenzy and they’re beautiful to watch! And I think the best gift of all is the brand new year that we get to unwrap with all of its possibilities and potential. This year will present some challenges, no doubt; but I’m confident have the resilience to handle whatever 2009 might bring us.
I saw an awful lot of students on Monday greeting one another and appearing very glad to be back. I think they really missed one another (and you!) and they missed the routine. Really, I did too. One can only eat, read, and putter around so much before starting to feel like a slug!
Well, this has been a week of mostly meetings, most of which haven’t been terribly exciting. On Thursday I did meet with the Ohio School Facilities Commission to discuss some possibilities for expanding their funding program beyond facilities and into operations. They were intrigued and it was a great brainstorming session. Certainly one of the challenges we’ll face in 2009 (and 2010 and 2011, most likely) will be our funding cuts. I heard someone on a public radio program say, “In times of a slow economy, fast innovation and creative solutions will define the survivors.” Good advice for tough times. And we’ve already shown we can innovate and be creative—so we’ll need to hone those skills and focus on what we do best.
This weather is driving me crazy! I’d rather have six inches of snow than this deceptive ice that sneaks up on you. (Although I should be careful what I ask for—sounds like I might get it!) On my way to a meeting in Urbana on Thursday afternoon, I came upon a minor accident on Ludlow Road in Logan County. A tow truck was already there, but I stopped to see if everyone was OK and to ask if they needed a phone. The two young men involved had Urbana High School sweatshirts on; and since they were heading south from Bellefontaine, I figured they might be Hi-Point students. I asked them if they were, and they said yes. (Thankfully everyone was fine.) I introduced myself, told them I was so glad they were OK, and pleaded with them to please be careful. They looked a little sheepish—the accident scene indicated it might have been a case of driving a little too fast and following a little too closely. I just hope and pray we can get through this Ohio winter without any serious injuries.
Sounds like this might be a good weekend to “cocoon.” If you have to go out, please be careful--and enjoy your weekend!
I hope Santa was good to all of you. My favorite gift was a bag full of suet cakes from my niece—the birds have been having a feeding frenzy and they’re beautiful to watch! And I think the best gift of all is the brand new year that we get to unwrap with all of its possibilities and potential. This year will present some challenges, no doubt; but I’m confident have the resilience to handle whatever 2009 might bring us.
I saw an awful lot of students on Monday greeting one another and appearing very glad to be back. I think they really missed one another (and you!) and they missed the routine. Really, I did too. One can only eat, read, and putter around so much before starting to feel like a slug!
Well, this has been a week of mostly meetings, most of which haven’t been terribly exciting. On Thursday I did meet with the Ohio School Facilities Commission to discuss some possibilities for expanding their funding program beyond facilities and into operations. They were intrigued and it was a great brainstorming session. Certainly one of the challenges we’ll face in 2009 (and 2010 and 2011, most likely) will be our funding cuts. I heard someone on a public radio program say, “In times of a slow economy, fast innovation and creative solutions will define the survivors.” Good advice for tough times. And we’ve already shown we can innovate and be creative—so we’ll need to hone those skills and focus on what we do best.
This weather is driving me crazy! I’d rather have six inches of snow than this deceptive ice that sneaks up on you. (Although I should be careful what I ask for—sounds like I might get it!) On my way to a meeting in Urbana on Thursday afternoon, I came upon a minor accident on Ludlow Road in Logan County. A tow truck was already there, but I stopped to see if everyone was OK and to ask if they needed a phone. The two young men involved had Urbana High School sweatshirts on; and since they were heading south from Bellefontaine, I figured they might be Hi-Point students. I asked them if they were, and they said yes. (Thankfully everyone was fine.) I introduced myself, told them I was so glad they were OK, and pleaded with them to please be careful. They looked a little sheepish—the accident scene indicated it might have been a case of driving a little too fast and following a little too closely. I just hope and pray we can get through this Ohio winter without any serious injuries.
Sounds like this might be a good weekend to “cocoon.” If you have to go out, please be careful--and enjoy your weekend!
Friday, December 19, 2008
December 19, 2008
Well, the day that many of you have been waiting for is finally here! Any even those of us who work some over Winter Break are looking forward to a little down time coming soon. I think we all could use some rest—including our students! But I know you’re also aware that it’s a very stressful time for many of our students and you’ve been very sensitive to that. They may not admit it—but many of them miss you and the supportive environment you provide while they’re away.
There’s never a good day for bad weather to hit, but our calamity day Wednesday seemed to hit at a particularly inconvenient time. Of course, a lot of testing got thrown off schedule; and I know there were a lot of holiday activities planned. But one planned event came off without a hitch regardless of the weather, and I think this story is a perfect example of the work ethic we instill in our students and the respect that our staff earns from those students.
Our annual Board Christmas Dinner, prepared and served by our Culinary Arts Students, was scheduled for Wednesday evening prior to the Board Meeting. When I had to cancel school, I didn’t call Donna Beale, Culinary Arts Teacher, right away because I thought she might want to enjoy a couple extra hours of sleep. I figured I could always order pizza for the Board! But soon Donna was on the phone to me telling me that her students who had worked so hard to plan the dinner were text-messaging her like crazy asking her what was going to happen, telling her they still wanted to go ahead with the dinner, and begging her to let them come in. She and I talked and decided that, if they were willing to put in that effort and felt that strongly about it, we certainly didn’t want to stand in their way! So later that afternoon, 11 of our Culinary Arts students (and Mrs. Beale!) arrived to begin cooking, setting up, and decorating for the dinner. I can’t tell you how proud I was of that group of kids. How many high school students do you know that would give up an afternoon and evening when their school was closed in order to carry out such a commitment? Our Board of Education was also tremendously impressed and appreciative, both with the students’ commitment and the wonderful meal. My heartfelt thanks to Donna and her students!
Thursday afternoon, Urbana University hosted an open house here in the Sloan Inn to bring together educational leaders in Logan County and make them aware of the opportunities for our students both on their Urbana campus and here at OHP. University staff outlined several fantastic new scholarship opportunities specifically for Logan County high-school graduates. Nancy Sweeney, Director of UU’s Nursing Programs, noted for the group that two graduates of their nursing program are employed here at Ohio Hi-Point—Lori Ludwig, Adult Ed. HIT Program Coordinator, and Mari Stormer, Adult Ed. HIT Instructor. UU President, Dr. Steve Jones, expressed publicly his appreciation for allowing his institution to have a “home base” here, and he is excited about expanding partnerships with our county schools.
Thursday evening was another great highlight of the week—I had the privilege of giving the welcome at our Adult Education Health Information Technology graduation ceremony. Twelve adults completed the program and received their certificates. As is always the case, there were many children of the graduates in the audience. The front row was entirely filled with youngsters who cheered on their moms. I couldn’t tell if they were more excited when their respective mothers walked across the stage or when it was announced that cookies and punch would be served afterward—but their enthusiasm was fun to watch! Thanks to Lori Ludwig, Program Coordinator, and Instructors Mari Stormer, Tanya Knief, and Alyce Kalb for the invitation and for their dedication to helping these students achieve their dreams.
We’re often reminded what a small world it is, and one of our staff members shared with me one such reminder this week. I received notification that our Early Childhood Education Program had passed its licensing inspection with flying colors, and I made a point to congratulate Angie Walls, ECE teacher. Angie shared with me that the very next day the same inspector (who is known to be pretty tough) visited a program run by her sister (but the inspector didn’t know it was Angie’s sister). Her sister shared with Angie that the inspector talked about having visited OHP the day before and just went on and on about what a top-notch, high-quality program Ohio Hi-Point runs. Having four sisters of my own, I know that sometimes a little competitiveness and jealousy can creep up when one of us get a little too much praise! So Angie’s sister finally had to tell the inspector that Angie was her sister and that she knows all about our program. Hey, there’s nothing wrong with setting the standard! Congratulations again to Angie, her aides Stacy Colwell, Barb Hopkins, and Deb Vermillion, as well as our ECE students for the great job they do every day to provide top-notch childcare.
I’ll close with a wish to all of you for a beautiful holiday season. I got a free box of Christmas cards from a magazine I subscribe to, Real Simple. (I love that magazine—it’s like Better Homes and Gardens for Dummies!) The verse on the card says, “Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are.” While we could worry ourselves crazy with all that’s going on in our world, I hope you’ll all take time to relax, rejuvenate, enjoy family and other loved ones, and appreciate how good things really are.
We’ll see you in the New Year!
There’s never a good day for bad weather to hit, but our calamity day Wednesday seemed to hit at a particularly inconvenient time. Of course, a lot of testing got thrown off schedule; and I know there were a lot of holiday activities planned. But one planned event came off without a hitch regardless of the weather, and I think this story is a perfect example of the work ethic we instill in our students and the respect that our staff earns from those students.
Our annual Board Christmas Dinner, prepared and served by our Culinary Arts Students, was scheduled for Wednesday evening prior to the Board Meeting. When I had to cancel school, I didn’t call Donna Beale, Culinary Arts Teacher, right away because I thought she might want to enjoy a couple extra hours of sleep. I figured I could always order pizza for the Board! But soon Donna was on the phone to me telling me that her students who had worked so hard to plan the dinner were text-messaging her like crazy asking her what was going to happen, telling her they still wanted to go ahead with the dinner, and begging her to let them come in. She and I talked and decided that, if they were willing to put in that effort and felt that strongly about it, we certainly didn’t want to stand in their way! So later that afternoon, 11 of our Culinary Arts students (and Mrs. Beale!) arrived to begin cooking, setting up, and decorating for the dinner. I can’t tell you how proud I was of that group of kids. How many high school students do you know that would give up an afternoon and evening when their school was closed in order to carry out such a commitment? Our Board of Education was also tremendously impressed and appreciative, both with the students’ commitment and the wonderful meal. My heartfelt thanks to Donna and her students!
Thursday afternoon, Urbana University hosted an open house here in the Sloan Inn to bring together educational leaders in Logan County and make them aware of the opportunities for our students both on their Urbana campus and here at OHP. University staff outlined several fantastic new scholarship opportunities specifically for Logan County high-school graduates. Nancy Sweeney, Director of UU’s Nursing Programs, noted for the group that two graduates of their nursing program are employed here at Ohio Hi-Point—Lori Ludwig, Adult Ed. HIT Program Coordinator, and Mari Stormer, Adult Ed. HIT Instructor. UU President, Dr. Steve Jones, expressed publicly his appreciation for allowing his institution to have a “home base” here, and he is excited about expanding partnerships with our county schools.
Thursday evening was another great highlight of the week—I had the privilege of giving the welcome at our Adult Education Health Information Technology graduation ceremony. Twelve adults completed the program and received their certificates. As is always the case, there were many children of the graduates in the audience. The front row was entirely filled with youngsters who cheered on their moms. I couldn’t tell if they were more excited when their respective mothers walked across the stage or when it was announced that cookies and punch would be served afterward—but their enthusiasm was fun to watch! Thanks to Lori Ludwig, Program Coordinator, and Instructors Mari Stormer, Tanya Knief, and Alyce Kalb for the invitation and for their dedication to helping these students achieve their dreams.
We’re often reminded what a small world it is, and one of our staff members shared with me one such reminder this week. I received notification that our Early Childhood Education Program had passed its licensing inspection with flying colors, and I made a point to congratulate Angie Walls, ECE teacher. Angie shared with me that the very next day the same inspector (who is known to be pretty tough) visited a program run by her sister (but the inspector didn’t know it was Angie’s sister). Her sister shared with Angie that the inspector talked about having visited OHP the day before and just went on and on about what a top-notch, high-quality program Ohio Hi-Point runs. Having four sisters of my own, I know that sometimes a little competitiveness and jealousy can creep up when one of us get a little too much praise! So Angie’s sister finally had to tell the inspector that Angie was her sister and that she knows all about our program. Hey, there’s nothing wrong with setting the standard! Congratulations again to Angie, her aides Stacy Colwell, Barb Hopkins, and Deb Vermillion, as well as our ECE students for the great job they do every day to provide top-notch childcare.
I’ll close with a wish to all of you for a beautiful holiday season. I got a free box of Christmas cards from a magazine I subscribe to, Real Simple. (I love that magazine—it’s like Better Homes and Gardens for Dummies!) The verse on the card says, “Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are.” While we could worry ourselves crazy with all that’s going on in our world, I hope you’ll all take time to relax, rejuvenate, enjoy family and other loved ones, and appreciate how good things really are.
We’ll see you in the New Year!
Friday, December 12, 2008
December 12, 2008
Someone mentioned yesterday that Christmas was two weeks away—holy cow! I had planned to do some wrapping this weekend, but I just realized I don’t have anything to wrap yet! I hope you’re all more organized than I am—I know you’re every bit as busy.
Last Friday evening I attended a reception for the December graduates at Urbana University. I have to share one really neat story. There was a gentleman who stood out in particular who was graduating with a degree in Business. He was so excited he just couldn’t sit down and enjoy the refreshments. He told me he will turn 60 in three months and plans to continue in his current job, and he feels his degree will make him a better employee. What an inspiration! Here’s a man who truly embraces being a lifelong learner.
Tuesday afternoon I attended grant presentations by the Union County Business-Education Workforce Team (through the Chamber of Commerce). The grants are presented for projects that tie academic instruction to real-world applications. (That’s what we do best, isn’t it!) We’ve received these grants in the past, and this year three of our teachers received grants! Congratulations to Sally Andrews, Health Technologies Teacher at Marysville; Ben Ludlow, Construction Trades Teacher at Marysville; and Cheryl Hess, Biomedical Sciences Teacher at Marysville and Urbana. Sally’s project involves students becoming certified in EKG, Cheryl’s project will provide equipment to study human body systems and view autopsies and surgeries, and Ben’s project will involve building shelving for a local community agency. What great opportunities for our students!
Wednesday morning was our Secondary Stakeholders Meeting where we invite key business and community leaders to give us input on our work toward meeting the goals of Perkins legislation. We had what I and the H.S. administrative team felt was one of the best discussions ever. In a nutshell, we’re performing well, we have room for improvement, and we have plans in place to reach our goals. And we need to continue to counter the stigma career-tech has carried for over 30 years and make sure our communities are aware of the college-prep opportunities we offer. Of course, much of our discussion centered on the current economic situation and specifically the role career-tech can play in transitioning displaced workers and giving our high-school students every advantage in this tough job market. We’ve always been seen as a tremendous workforce development asset to our communities; but it was very apparent we’re now being seen as an even more critical solution to workforce needs. Many thanks to Joel Staudter, Shelly Swaney, and Deb Wortman for being there to share with our Stakeholders!
I know a lot of our programs are conducting community service programs during the holidays to help our less fortunate families. Doug Limes and his Building Maintenance Program are conducting a Toys for Tots drive, and it was fun to go toy shopping for the first time in many years (my nieces and nephews are all high-school age or older now!) Also, our ProjectSEARCH is collecting gifts for the holiday gift shop at Logan Acres and will be playing Santa’s Elves this Friday and next. Thanks to Doug, Mary Jo, and all the rest of you who are teaching your students to give back!
Shane Haggerty, Communications Coordinator, recently shared with me that he had been asked me to accept the role of V.P. of Professional Development for the National School Public Relations Association/Ohio for the remainder of this year. Shane will take over the professional development planning for the organization for the rest of this school year, including being in charge of NSPRA/Ohio’s spring conference. Shane will be one of two CTE professionals on the board (the other being Lisa Riegel from Delaware Area Career Center who serves as V.P. of Communications. Congratulations, Shane, and thanks for representing CTE so well at the state level!
I was in Walgreens the other evening buying batteries (when I should have been Christmas shopping so I’d have something to wrap!), and I ran into Carmen Scott, a local citizen and volunteer who was very involved with the Logan County Planning Commission when our career center was established. We talked a little bit about the presentation I had made to the Logan-Union-Champaign Planning Commission (as it’s called now) a few weeks ago about OHP. He told me his work in helping to establish our school is one the proudest accomplishments of his career because of all the lives this school has touched in such a positive way over the years. Now that’s a compliment I couldn’t help but pass along to all of you!
Many of you know I’m a huge proponent of networking in order to be successful in our work, and I often encourage our staff to “steal shamelessly” when they see best practices in other schools. I’ll end this week with a quote I came across from Woodrow Wilson: "I not only use all the brains I have, but all that I can borrow." Great advice!
Have a great weekend!
Last Friday evening I attended a reception for the December graduates at Urbana University. I have to share one really neat story. There was a gentleman who stood out in particular who was graduating with a degree in Business. He was so excited he just couldn’t sit down and enjoy the refreshments. He told me he will turn 60 in three months and plans to continue in his current job, and he feels his degree will make him a better employee. What an inspiration! Here’s a man who truly embraces being a lifelong learner.
Tuesday afternoon I attended grant presentations by the Union County Business-Education Workforce Team (through the Chamber of Commerce). The grants are presented for projects that tie academic instruction to real-world applications. (That’s what we do best, isn’t it!) We’ve received these grants in the past, and this year three of our teachers received grants! Congratulations to Sally Andrews, Health Technologies Teacher at Marysville; Ben Ludlow, Construction Trades Teacher at Marysville; and Cheryl Hess, Biomedical Sciences Teacher at Marysville and Urbana. Sally’s project involves students becoming certified in EKG, Cheryl’s project will provide equipment to study human body systems and view autopsies and surgeries, and Ben’s project will involve building shelving for a local community agency. What great opportunities for our students!
Wednesday morning was our Secondary Stakeholders Meeting where we invite key business and community leaders to give us input on our work toward meeting the goals of Perkins legislation. We had what I and the H.S. administrative team felt was one of the best discussions ever. In a nutshell, we’re performing well, we have room for improvement, and we have plans in place to reach our goals. And we need to continue to counter the stigma career-tech has carried for over 30 years and make sure our communities are aware of the college-prep opportunities we offer. Of course, much of our discussion centered on the current economic situation and specifically the role career-tech can play in transitioning displaced workers and giving our high-school students every advantage in this tough job market. We’ve always been seen as a tremendous workforce development asset to our communities; but it was very apparent we’re now being seen as an even more critical solution to workforce needs. Many thanks to Joel Staudter, Shelly Swaney, and Deb Wortman for being there to share with our Stakeholders!
I know a lot of our programs are conducting community service programs during the holidays to help our less fortunate families. Doug Limes and his Building Maintenance Program are conducting a Toys for Tots drive, and it was fun to go toy shopping for the first time in many years (my nieces and nephews are all high-school age or older now!) Also, our ProjectSEARCH is collecting gifts for the holiday gift shop at Logan Acres and will be playing Santa’s Elves this Friday and next. Thanks to Doug, Mary Jo, and all the rest of you who are teaching your students to give back!
Shane Haggerty, Communications Coordinator, recently shared with me that he had been asked me to accept the role of V.P. of Professional Development for the National School Public Relations Association/Ohio for the remainder of this year. Shane will take over the professional development planning for the organization for the rest of this school year, including being in charge of NSPRA/Ohio’s spring conference. Shane will be one of two CTE professionals on the board (the other being Lisa Riegel from Delaware Area Career Center who serves as V.P. of Communications. Congratulations, Shane, and thanks for representing CTE so well at the state level!
I was in Walgreens the other evening buying batteries (when I should have been Christmas shopping so I’d have something to wrap!), and I ran into Carmen Scott, a local citizen and volunteer who was very involved with the Logan County Planning Commission when our career center was established. We talked a little bit about the presentation I had made to the Logan-Union-Champaign Planning Commission (as it’s called now) a few weeks ago about OHP. He told me his work in helping to establish our school is one the proudest accomplishments of his career because of all the lives this school has touched in such a positive way over the years. Now that’s a compliment I couldn’t help but pass along to all of you!
Many of you know I’m a huge proponent of networking in order to be successful in our work, and I often encourage our staff to “steal shamelessly” when they see best practices in other schools. I’ll end this week with a quote I came across from Woodrow Wilson: "I not only use all the brains I have, but all that I can borrow." Great advice!
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
December 5, 2008
I couldn’t help but notice this past week how many of us are sniffling, sneezing, and coughing. The news media has even talked about how many people are sick with sinus infections and upper respiratory problems in our region. I’m not sure what it is about this year that is making us all more susceptible! (Amy McCarthy tells me we all just need to keep our hands away from our faces!) I appreciate all your hard work in spite of not feeling so well.
As we came back from Thanksgiving weekend, I couldn’t quite get used to the idea that it’s December already—it kind of snuck up on me. And the winter activities are picking up. Tuesday I attended the Satellite Holiday Luncheon and had a rare opportunity to talk with all our satellite teachers in one place at one time! It did make me stop to think how those programs have grown so much over a relatively short time and what a great team of teachers we’ve assembled to deliver these programs in our partner school districts and communities. I appreciated the invitation!
Tuesday evening I attended an alumni meeting for Union County Leadership Institute. It was good to re-connect with my class and other classes that have gone through the program. All of the four county leadership programs I’ve completed have proven to be a great network of people to help me make connections for business/industry input, field trips and experiences for our students, and support for Ohio Hi-Point in general. We’re fortunate to work in a region that has these programs available. Two different people at the meeting made a point to speak to me and commend Ohio Hi-Point for our work in Union County (specifically our acquisition of the Union County ABLE program). It was nice to have this recognition from leaders in the community!
At the Logan County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, Natalie Comer, Economic Development Coordinator, gave an overview of the report the County received from a consultant group who had reviewed our “readiness” for attracting new businesses. She said one of the factors they look at is “workforce readiness,” and I asked her how they determine that. She said they take into account the educational levels of current workers and potential displaced workers from other businesses that have or plan to close. While Logan County struggles in this area, she said it is certainly a “plus” when we can demonstrate rapid-response training programs such as we have at Ohio Hi-Point in our Adult Education Department, as well as the future well-educated workforce we are developing by sending so many of our high-school students on to higher education. Just another example of the value we add to our community!
Thursday morning started off with my three hours of required annual public records training through the State Attorney General’s Office (Yawn! Thanks to Lisa McCullough for sitting through that with me!) But the day finished with what had to be the highlight of the week—our “Taste of the Future” Career Preview/Open House! The committee tried a lot of new things this year, including culinary delights from local restaurants and our own Culinary Arts Program. I finally had to make myself leave the cafeteria area after a walking taco, pizza, and four desserts! But the event really lived up to its name—we had a “taste” of something for everyone, and the community came out take advantage of it! Those that attended really seemed to be there with a purpose—whether to learn about adult education job training programs, get information about local colleges, visit our high-school program labs, or even get a flu shot! It was just great (as always) to visit the various areas and hear our staff and students sharing enthusiastically about what we offer. Shane Haggerty was taking lots of photos, so I know he’ll post those for you to view soon. Many, many thanks to Shane and his committee who worked so hard to put this wonderful event together, to JoEtta Spain and our Student Ambassadors for taking such good care of our visitors, and to all our staff members who gave up their evenings to be here. It will pay big dividends, no doubt!
The Christmas cards are starting to come in from our colleagues at other schools, agencies, and businesses. We received one from Miami Valley Career Technology Center that had a really neat quote on it that I wanted to share:
As we came back from Thanksgiving weekend, I couldn’t quite get used to the idea that it’s December already—it kind of snuck up on me. And the winter activities are picking up. Tuesday I attended the Satellite Holiday Luncheon and had a rare opportunity to talk with all our satellite teachers in one place at one time! It did make me stop to think how those programs have grown so much over a relatively short time and what a great team of teachers we’ve assembled to deliver these programs in our partner school districts and communities. I appreciated the invitation!
Tuesday evening I attended an alumni meeting for Union County Leadership Institute. It was good to re-connect with my class and other classes that have gone through the program. All of the four county leadership programs I’ve completed have proven to be a great network of people to help me make connections for business/industry input, field trips and experiences for our students, and support for Ohio Hi-Point in general. We’re fortunate to work in a region that has these programs available. Two different people at the meeting made a point to speak to me and commend Ohio Hi-Point for our work in Union County (specifically our acquisition of the Union County ABLE program). It was nice to have this recognition from leaders in the community!
At the Logan County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, Natalie Comer, Economic Development Coordinator, gave an overview of the report the County received from a consultant group who had reviewed our “readiness” for attracting new businesses. She said one of the factors they look at is “workforce readiness,” and I asked her how they determine that. She said they take into account the educational levels of current workers and potential displaced workers from other businesses that have or plan to close. While Logan County struggles in this area, she said it is certainly a “plus” when we can demonstrate rapid-response training programs such as we have at Ohio Hi-Point in our Adult Education Department, as well as the future well-educated workforce we are developing by sending so many of our high-school students on to higher education. Just another example of the value we add to our community!
Thursday morning started off with my three hours of required annual public records training through the State Attorney General’s Office (Yawn! Thanks to Lisa McCullough for sitting through that with me!) But the day finished with what had to be the highlight of the week—our “Taste of the Future” Career Preview/Open House! The committee tried a lot of new things this year, including culinary delights from local restaurants and our own Culinary Arts Program. I finally had to make myself leave the cafeteria area after a walking taco, pizza, and four desserts! But the event really lived up to its name—we had a “taste” of something for everyone, and the community came out take advantage of it! Those that attended really seemed to be there with a purpose—whether to learn about adult education job training programs, get information about local colleges, visit our high-school program labs, or even get a flu shot! It was just great (as always) to visit the various areas and hear our staff and students sharing enthusiastically about what we offer. Shane Haggerty was taking lots of photos, so I know he’ll post those for you to view soon. Many, many thanks to Shane and his committee who worked so hard to put this wonderful event together, to JoEtta Spain and our Student Ambassadors for taking such good care of our visitors, and to all our staff members who gave up their evenings to be here. It will pay big dividends, no doubt!
The Christmas cards are starting to come in from our colleagues at other schools, agencies, and businesses. We received one from Miami Valley Career Technology Center that had a really neat quote on it that I wanted to share:
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.”
I love that!
Finally,
· Have a great weekend,
· Stay warm,
· If you’re healthy, stay healthy,
· If you’re not, get well soon!
Friday, November 21, 2008
November 21, 2008
TGIF November 21, 2008
Good frigid Friday to all of you! I hope you’ve all been able to dig out your winter coats, gloves, hats, etc. I always seem to have a hard time finding that stuff when the cold weather hits. But it’s like finding old friends to help get through these winter months.
If I had to give this week a theme, I’d have to say it’s been a “week of validation” for Ohio Hi-Point and the value we provide to our region. Monday I attended a luncheon at Clark State Community College (along with Sharon Halter, ABLE Coordinator, and Amy Main, Adult Education Health Occupations Coordinator) to meet with Clark State’s accreditation team. This team of representatives from all over the country wanted to hear how Clark State has partnered with us to serve students. We were able to share how we’ve worked with Clark State in our Tech Prep programs to give many students a head-start toward college, how they’ve been leaders in facilitating dual enrollment classes for us, how they have co-located on our campus to bring higher education to Logan County, how our Adult Education Practical Nursing Program is pioneering a blended-curriculum program in Marysville with Clark State, and how we are partnering with them to bring public safety services training to Logan Co. Afterward, I received a personal thank-you from David Devier, VP of Academic and Student Affairs at Clark State, for sharing and for the tremendous cooperation he has received from my staff on all these initiatives—he couldn’t say enough about the professionalism of all of you in the high-school, adult education, and even facilities and grounds for making them feel so at home here. Thanks to all of you for living up to the high bar we’ve set!
On Wednesday, Darlene Chiles, Adult Education Director, attended a meeting with the Logan County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development as a member of a stakeholder team convened to position Logan County competitively as businesses look to locate here. Prior to the meeting, she had given the visiting consultants a tour of our facilities. She shared with me and our Board on Wednesday evening that the visiting team just couldn’t say enough at the stakeholders meeting about what an asset Ohio Hi-Point is to Logan County; as a matter of fact, they cited us as the number one asset to the County in attracting new businesses. How about that!! (Darlene said it was actually a little embarrassing that they kept raving about us at the meeting, but of course she didn’t stop them!) I think it’s important for all of you to hear examples such as this when outside sources come to our region and recognize the quality educational opportunities we provide. We expect a lot of ourselves, we deliver, and people are noticing!
Thursday evening I had the opportunity to present to the Logan-Union-Champaign Regional Planning Commission at their annual meeting. This group included about 140 county commissioners, county engineers, elected officials, and other leaders from this three-county region. Jack Reser, Logan County Commissioner, had asked me to speak because we serve this same region. I agreed because I thought it was a perfect fit! Jack also shared with the group as he introduced me how very impressed the visiting consulting team for the Chamber had been with our facility. The theme of my presentation was the history of our site in Bellefontaine, the establishment of the Ohio Hi-Point Joint Vocational School District, and our impact on the region. I have to say I had a lot of fun digging through some old records to learn more about how our District was established. Did you know the initial 3-mill, 5-year levy to establish the District, initially placed on the ballot in November of 1970, failed twice before it was finally passed in May of 1972? I didn’t! Reading through those old leather-bound board minutes from the meetings of our original Board of Education helped me to understand that it took a very dedicated group of persistent pioneers to make our school a reality. We all owe them a tremendous debt, and I’m sure they would all be proud (or are proud if they’re still with us) of how far we’ve come in our first 35 years! Many thanks to Robert Walker and Shane Haggerty for their assistance in helping me put this presentation together.
I understand there’s some big football game going on this weekend? Have a great weekend and stay warm!
Good frigid Friday to all of you! I hope you’ve all been able to dig out your winter coats, gloves, hats, etc. I always seem to have a hard time finding that stuff when the cold weather hits. But it’s like finding old friends to help get through these winter months.
If I had to give this week a theme, I’d have to say it’s been a “week of validation” for Ohio Hi-Point and the value we provide to our region. Monday I attended a luncheon at Clark State Community College (along with Sharon Halter, ABLE Coordinator, and Amy Main, Adult Education Health Occupations Coordinator) to meet with Clark State’s accreditation team. This team of representatives from all over the country wanted to hear how Clark State has partnered with us to serve students. We were able to share how we’ve worked with Clark State in our Tech Prep programs to give many students a head-start toward college, how they’ve been leaders in facilitating dual enrollment classes for us, how they have co-located on our campus to bring higher education to Logan County, how our Adult Education Practical Nursing Program is pioneering a blended-curriculum program in Marysville with Clark State, and how we are partnering with them to bring public safety services training to Logan Co. Afterward, I received a personal thank-you from David Devier, VP of Academic and Student Affairs at Clark State, for sharing and for the tremendous cooperation he has received from my staff on all these initiatives—he couldn’t say enough about the professionalism of all of you in the high-school, adult education, and even facilities and grounds for making them feel so at home here. Thanks to all of you for living up to the high bar we’ve set!
On Wednesday, Darlene Chiles, Adult Education Director, attended a meeting with the Logan County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development as a member of a stakeholder team convened to position Logan County competitively as businesses look to locate here. Prior to the meeting, she had given the visiting consultants a tour of our facilities. She shared with me and our Board on Wednesday evening that the visiting team just couldn’t say enough at the stakeholders meeting about what an asset Ohio Hi-Point is to Logan County; as a matter of fact, they cited us as the number one asset to the County in attracting new businesses. How about that!! (Darlene said it was actually a little embarrassing that they kept raving about us at the meeting, but of course she didn’t stop them!) I think it’s important for all of you to hear examples such as this when outside sources come to our region and recognize the quality educational opportunities we provide. We expect a lot of ourselves, we deliver, and people are noticing!
Thursday evening I had the opportunity to present to the Logan-Union-Champaign Regional Planning Commission at their annual meeting. This group included about 140 county commissioners, county engineers, elected officials, and other leaders from this three-county region. Jack Reser, Logan County Commissioner, had asked me to speak because we serve this same region. I agreed because I thought it was a perfect fit! Jack also shared with the group as he introduced me how very impressed the visiting consulting team for the Chamber had been with our facility. The theme of my presentation was the history of our site in Bellefontaine, the establishment of the Ohio Hi-Point Joint Vocational School District, and our impact on the region. I have to say I had a lot of fun digging through some old records to learn more about how our District was established. Did you know the initial 3-mill, 5-year levy to establish the District, initially placed on the ballot in November of 1970, failed twice before it was finally passed in May of 1972? I didn’t! Reading through those old leather-bound board minutes from the meetings of our original Board of Education helped me to understand that it took a very dedicated group of persistent pioneers to make our school a reality. We all owe them a tremendous debt, and I’m sure they would all be proud (or are proud if they’re still with us) of how far we’ve come in our first 35 years! Many thanks to Robert Walker and Shane Haggerty for their assistance in helping me put this presentation together.
I understand there’s some big football game going on this weekend? Have a great weekend and stay warm!
Friday, November 14, 2008
November 14, 2008
I’m back to blogging after a brief absence! It’s been a crazy couple of weeks—some planned activity, some unplanned. And from what I’ve seen and heard, you’ve all been very busy as well!
Early in November I had the opportunity to attend the American Association of School Administrators Women in Leadership Conference. The overall theme was having the courage to affect change, and I think we at OHP have all learned through our many changes over the past several years that change does indeed take courage! Featured speakers were the Superintendents of Atlanta, Georgia and Huntsville, Alabama Public Schools. Both of these districts have come from being low-performing schools to showing tremendous improvement over the past five years in spite of difficult conditions. The superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools, Beverly Hall, described the strategic plan her district enacted through decentralized building leadership teams focused on standards. She also shared that financial restrictions required her to cut over 1,000 employees from their central office (makes me wonder how many they had to begin with!) It’s hard for me to fathom an organization that large and complex. But I think this district is an excellent example that schools can achieve success even in tough times by staying focused and working together.
Once again our GRADS Department (Deb Baker, Nancy Decker, Francie Ross) worked with the March of Dimes on the “Light a Little Star” event which raises funds to help prevent birth defects. At Ohio Hi-Point Career Center, the GRADS Department had a brownie day and a teacher Soup Luncheon for donations (and we all got some great soup recipes as a result!) In addition, students sponsored a Harvest Dance on November 7 with proceeds going to the “Light A Little Star” Event. Ohio Hi-Point’s total donation to March of Dimes was $350, which was presented at the “Light a Little Star” community event on November 8 at Northeastern Elementary school in Bellefontaine.
Many thank to our GRADS instructors and the following students who worked very hard to organize the Harvest Dance:
Alison Godfrey, Cosmetology I from Bellefontaine
Michael Overfield, Cosmetology I from Bellefontaine
Alyson Mowery, Cosmetology II from Marysville
Emma Barrett, Cosmetology II from West Liberty-Salem
Mary Rose Sanders, Culinary II from Urbana
Ashley Kuch, Cosmetology I from Ben Logan
A photo of the “Light a Little Star” Committee is pictured at right. Absent from the photo is Nancy Decker, GRADS Instructor.
This past Monday and Tuesday I attended the Ohio School Boards Association Capital Conference in Columbus. We heard from both Governor Strickland and our new State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Deborah Delisle. Governor Strickland vowed that school funding reform will be his first priority in 2009 and will be reflected in his proposed state budget. We’ll have to wait for the details on that! Mrs. Delisle spoke enthusiastically about her goal to make the Ohio Department of Education a service and support organization for Ohio’s public schools. I have to say it is refreshing to have a State Superintendent who has superintendent experience in an Ohio public school (Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District) and who has been “in the trenches” with us in enacting federal and state mandates. I look forward to the perspective she brings to the position.
During the Capital Conference, the Ohio Association of Career-Tech Superintendents met and heard from Tom Ash, Legislative Specialist with Buckeye Association of School Administrators (Ohio has no shortage of “Associations,” does it?!) Tom cautioned us to expect another round of cuts to the education budget from the Governor’s office yet this school year, most likely in February/March. We’re fortunate at Ohio Hi-Point not to have to worry about the possibility of a negative cash balance with news of such cuts, but we certainly need to work very carefully to watch our resources and plan to spend even less than what was appropriated by the Board in September. The Administrative Team and I will work together to assure we can operate even within a reduced budget, and I want to thank all of you for your efforts to use our resources wisely.
Speaking of budgets, a new State Biennium Budget will be enacted in the first half of 2009. This is likely to be one of the “leanest” budgets we’ve seen in quite some time; and Shane Haggerty, the Administrative Team, and I will be setting up appointments to talk with our legislators in January during the Ohio ACTE Legislative Conference. It’s critical that we keep the importance of career-technical education at the forefront as they begin the budgeting process.
OK, enough with the gloomy news! Let me share some of the great things our students are doing! During the Capital Conference, I attended a session on Satellite Programs presented by Sharon Maurice, Supply Chain Management Instructor at Urbana, two of her current students, and one graduate of the program. They were just great! The two current students, Victoria Noble and Wade Nichols, are juniors in the program; and their presentation was as professional as you would expect from any business person. The former student, Chris Rittenhouse, talked about his experience both in the program and at his current job with the Defense Acquisition University at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Wow—the experiences he’s having! And, of course, it takes an enthusiastic teacher to get kids this excited about a program, and Sharon certainly fits the bill. Thanks to all of you for representing us so well at a state-wide conference!
Last evening I attended the annual Union County Chamber of Commerce “Salute to Leaders” Dinner. The Chamber holds this dinner because they strongly believe in growing and recognizing local leadership. Leaders are recognized in several areas; and the gentleman recognized for his contributions in Culture/Arts, Larry Ohnsman, stated he was a former career-technical construction trades teacher. I spoke with Larry afterward and asked him where he taught, and it was right here at OHP! Some of you may remember him. He talked for quite some time about how much he enjoyed his teaching here.
JoEtta Spain, who advises our Student Ambassadors, has been very busy out and about with this group of students beginning our recruiting efforts for next year at our partner schools. I was able to see a very brief portion of their presentation at West Liberty-Salem (next year I’ll schedule better and stay for the whole thing!) But even in the short portion that I saw, the enthusiasm of both the students and Joetta was tremendous. JoEtta shared:
I really wanted to tell you how proud I have been of the work the Lead Ambassadors have done this year on our visits to the partner schools. The information the students are able to share with them is so powerful for our recruitment efforts. We have such wonderful students and they really give 100% to do a great job for OHP. I always look forward to each year and the new group of students we have as Lead Ambassadors. I enjoy the time I spend with them also.
JoEtta also shared about this year’s first student incentive activity for grades/attendance:
This Thursday, November 6, was our first student incentive activity. We went to T.P. Lanes for 2 games of bowling and pizza and drinks. We had 175 students make the TAD list (tardy-attendance-discipline). Out of the 175 we took 112 to the bowling lanes and had such an exciting time. The students were so good even the staff at the bowling lanes said what a good bunch they were. I had great help with the group from Eric Harman, Tammy Troyer, Judy Gratz, Carol Siebeneck, and Ryan Mulholland. I really appreciate all their help. Thanks so much for allowing us to give the students such a fun activity.
Thanks to all of the staff members who assisted with this well-deserved activity for the students!
I often say that I run into good news about OHP just about everywhere I go. My husband Scott spent last weekend in Union Memorial Hospital in Marysville with a pulmonary embolism. (He’s doing fine now—just has to keep his blood thinner than water!) When we got to the emergency room at 2:30 Friday morning, I of course had to fill out all the necessary paperwork for insurance. When the lady helping me saw that I worked at Ohio Hi-Point, she asked what I do here. (I was almost embarrassed to admit I was superintendent, because I definitely had my “just-rolled-out-of-bed” look going on!) She said, “Oh, we have your students here all the time! We really enjoy them.” I thanked her for the clinical experiences the hospital makes available to our students. I also found it interesting that Scott had two male nurses in the ER, and his physician was female. Those gender roles are clearly being redefined in the health care field!
Finally, I’d like to wish all of our staff members who are veterans a belated Happy Veterans Day! I hope we never take for granted the freedoms we enjoy because of your dedication to our country.
Have a great weekend!
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