June 2013 ’ message from Volunteer Receives State Award

Dr. Margaret A. Smith Superintendent Thank You, Volusia Staff! As the 2012-13 school year winds down, I want to express appreciation and thanks to the entire staff for a job well Congratulating Phyllis Butlien are Pat Travis (left), done in educating our students. facilitator of volunteer/partnership programs and Diane The hard work of each member Marino (right), volunteer coordinator at University High School. of the schools and district staff is recognized and valued. Phyllis Butlien of Debary was presented with the 2013 The outstanding memories of the school year are Outstanding School Volunteer Award from the Florida Department of Education about the successes of students, by Pat Travis, facilitator of volunteer/partnership programs, Volusia County teachers, administrators and Schools. The recognition was held April 9th in the presence of faculty, friends support staff. There have and family at University High School, Orange City. Butlien is one of only five been many ongoing ways that students and staff have been volunteers (adult category) throughout Florida to receive this honor from recognized. At each school Commissioner of Education Dr. Tony Bennett. board meeting, time is devoted Phyllis Butlien, a 13 year veteran volunteer nominated by University to highlighting student and staff High School, had received the district’s Outstanding School Volunteer Award in accomplishments. Resolutions of appreciation for various the adult category this past February. She was then nominated by Pat Travis employee groups are adopted for the Florida Outstanding School Volunteer award. Phyllis volunteers at five at school board meetings and schools and averages 30 hours of service each week. Through her leadership shared online for access by employees and the public. and knowledge base of the community’s resources, she helped to coordinate the parents and assist in the start-up activities when University High opened In our frequent e-news online publication, the focus in 2010. Monies raised by the PTSA while president have been used to sponsor (continued on page 4) (continued on page 2) Page 2 the Educator (continued from page 1) Text Messaging is Coming! Superintendent is on school achievements and special events. In order to communicate as effectively as possible Teacher of the Year and Superintendent’s with our families, we will be implementing the newest Outstanding Achievement Award winner events version of the Connect ED system – which will now be occur throughout the year. Attention is given to called Connect 5. The new system will be activated in the fact that our students and teachers receive July at no additional cost and will include one-way text a high number of state and national awards for messaging. This feature is often requested by families their successes. Each school has a host of activities and will become an important part of our communication and celebrations in honor of staff members and efforts, particularly during an emergency. students. Utilizing the new feature will require an effort to Volusia high school graduations are the make sure cell phone numbers are collected and input culminating story of the work of the total staff. properly so they can be uploaded to the automated Each year it is a time when we celebrate our calling system. Parents will receive a text message when students and give thanks to all of the staff the feature is “turned on” and at that time they will be members who have supported them. able to opt-out if they do not wish to continue receiving As we close out this school year, take a moment messages in this format. There is always the ability to to reflect on all of the accomplishments of call the school to opt in or out at any time during the our students, colleagues and schools. It is an school year. We recognize not everyone has unlimited impressive list. Thank you for your part in making it happen. texting abilities and want to be as flexible as possible. Text messaging for employees is also on the horizon. Stay tuned! Yours in education, Another way we are communicating with our stakeholders is through Twitter. You can access the Twitter feed from the district’s website, as well as the LaunchPad videos that share information about our students, staff Margaret A. Smith, D. Ed. Superintendent of Schools and schools. Stories produced for LaunchPad are also available on Volusia School’s YouTube channel.

Health Risk Assessments - Coming Soon! Health Risk Assessments will start early this year!

You must take the Health Risk Assessment each year to access the benefits of the Volusia County School Board Wellness Program which includes free gym access (including all the YMCA’s in Volusia County) and greatly reduced Weight Watchers fees.

• VIEW: Go to the ePortal, eCare tab, click on the DID SOMEONE JUST OFFER ME FREE GYM “Wellness Links” to view the Health Risk Assessment ACCESS AND WEIGHT WATCHERS AT A GREATLY schedule (dates, times and locations) that begin July REDUCED FEE? 24th.

• SCHEDULE: Beginning July 1st, go to the ePortal, click For Wellness information, visit the ePortal: on the “Wellness Links” and use the online scheduler to https://ww2.volusia.k12.fl.us/ePortal/DesktopDefault.aspx set your personal Health Risk Assessment appointment. June 2013 Page 3

AugustAnnual 13, 2013 thru Enrollment August 27, 2013 @5:00 p.m.

Annual enrollment is the only time of year you can make changes to your insurance coverage without an IRS Section 125 qualifying event.

Changes made during annual enrollment will be effective October 1, 2013.

• ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD: Please make note of the above dates. Annual Enrollment changes can only be made during this period.

• BENEFIT ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES: A Benefit Guide, along with other important enrollment information, will be mailed to your home by the end of July. Please refer to this information, including health insurance plan design changes and rates, to make your insurance decisions for the 2013-2014 plan year.

• eCare – The eCare online enrollment system is available 24 hours a day – 7 days a week at https://ww2. volusia.k12.fl.us/ePortal/DesktopDefault.aspx

• REMEMBER: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) do not carry over from the previous plan year. You must re-enroll in your FSAs for the 2013-2014 plan year.

• DEPENDENT INFORMATION: Be sure to log into the eCare system to verify your dependent data (name, date of birth, SSN, gender, etc) and make necessary corrections. This is the information transmitted to the insurance carriers and must be correct to ensure proper coverage and claims processing!

• NO INSURANCE CHANGES?: If you do not need to make any changes to your insurance coverage during annual enrollment - do nothing. Your current elections, except FSAs, will roll over effective October 1, 2013.

All Annual Enrollment changes must be made by August 27, 2013 @ 5:00 p.m.

Changes made during annual enrollment will be effective October 1, 2013.

For general benefit information, visit the Insurance & Employee Benefits Department website at: http://myvolusiaschools.org/insurance/Pages/default.aspx

Address correspondence to: The Educator Editor, Liz Perpiñan, Human Resources Log on to the [email protected] ePortal School Board of Volusia County Contributing Editors: Mrs. Diane J. Smith, Chairman Brenda Brett, Technology Services often to Ms. Candace Lankford, Vice Chairman Denise Dietrich, Superintendent’s Office Mrs. Linda Costello Evette Gonzalez, Human Resources review payroll Mr. Stan Schmidt D’Lorah Butts-Lucas, Human Resources Mrs. Ida D. Wright Dana Paige-Pender, Human Resources Liz Thayer, Human Resources information Superintendent of Schools Pat Travis, Community Information Dr. Margaret A. Smith Nancy Wait, Community Information and more! Page 4 the Educator Volunteer (continued from page 1) graduation activities and school events. active leader of many Butlien coordinated a “Texting & Driving…It Can PTAs, and is currently Wait” campaign through AT&T, utilizing volunteer and Volusia County Council’s partners to provide valuable information to students. As PTA treasurer. a member of the Academy of Finance’s Advisory Council, she oversaw a partnership with Debary Elementary to Congratulations offer a finance/banking experience for the students. She Phyllis! assisted the high school students with set-up, audited the elementary students’ transactions, and helped balance the “student branch.” Butlien mentors students at Phyllis Butlien (center) with family River Springs Middle, Deltona Lakes Elementary, and (daughter Rachel left and husband Enterprise Elementary schools. She also has been an David right) after receiving state award.

FUTURES! Foundation

Mini-Grants grades) FUTURES mini-grant program was recently featured in The d. school involvement (citizenship) Daytona Beach News Journal. Click here to read about this great success story! Also, so that teachers can begin preparations and RECOMMENDATIONS: The principal of each school, with work on their grants over the summer, FUTURES mini-grant the input of guidance counselors and teachers, recommends applications for 2013-14 will be posted on line and emailed to all three students per grade level whose behavior and grades have staff soon! shown a marked improvement this school year (or from one year to the next). Based on written recommendations, a committee Turn Around Program established by FUTURES reviews the nominations and selects one FUTURES is very excited to be recognizing the 70+ Volusia student per grade for formal recognition. County middle and high school students who have ‘turned around’ their grades, attendance and behavior on Wednesday, May 29th at RECOGNITION: All nominees submitted will receive a certificate Jackie Robinson Ballpark! These students will enjoy a recognition (different from the winners) that will be mailed to his/her school ceremony with their families and a Daytona Cubs ballpark meal in April with a request that it be presented to the student during and game, as part of their congratulations. We applaud these an appropriate school program. students for the work required to become selected as Turn Around award recipients. Here is a little more on the program specifics: Each winner and his/her parents will be invited to a Cubs game and ceremony hosted by FUTURES. School principals, GOAL: As part of Volusia County School’s drop-out prevention School Board members, district administrators, and members of program, the Turn Around program recognizes middle and high FUTURES will also be invited to attend. school students who have demonstrated a marked improvement in school involvement and citizenship. Each winner will receive a certificate and his/her name will be engraved on a plaque to be displayed at the school. PROGRAM: The program honors a student at each grade level in the middle and high schools who have shown a dramatic Most of the Turn Around students (winners and nominees) have achievement in at least two of the following areas: not received positive recognition in the past. Therefore it is our a. attendance goal that they be reached, motivated, and rewarded as they turn b. attitude (marked by reduction in numbers of referrals) their lives around! c. grades (improvement in grades, not necessarily the highest

Let Your Voice Be Heard…If you have enjoyed this edition of the Volusia County District Newsletter, The Educator, let us know. If you didn’t, tell us that as well. Your opinion is important and your feedback will help to provide insight about what is important to you. Have an idea for an article? Or perhaps you’d like to write an article yourself! Send your idea and/or information to the editor at [email protected]. You may see your idea (or your article) in an upcoming issue! June 2013 Page 5 Outstanding School Volunteers Honored The 2013 Outstanding School Volunteer winners were announced on Friday, February 15, at Volusia County School’s annual VIPS (Volunteers in Public Schools) Recognition Day. Held at New Smyrna Beach High School, the event honored the exemplary volunteers that serve the county’s public schools. Diane Smith, school board chairman stated over 18,000 volunteers provided 814,545 service hours during the 2011- 2012 school year. According to www.independentsector.org this represents over $15 million worth of service. Kemon Long, a junior from Atlantic High School, won in the youth category. He gives his all with any volunteer From left to right: Diane Smith, school board chairman; Outstanding Youth project, whether it is for a Volunteer Kemon Long; Outstanding Adult Volunteer Phyllis Butlien; Outstanding school, a nursing home, children Senior Volunteer Ed Ehrenspeck; and Dr. Margaret Smith, superintendent. centers, or his church. Kemon has materials for the projects. By helping the school initiate an volunteered for his alma maters,Turie T. Small Elementary amateur radio club, the students were able to participate and Campbell Middle Schools, where he helps with special in ARISS (Amateur Radio and the International Space events and family activities. At Atlantic High School he Station program). It culminated in one extraordinary day is actively involved in service projects with National when the school spoke with astronaut Sunita Williams Honor Society and is their webmaster. He tutors peers while aboard the station. In addition, Ehrenspeck has during the lunch hour in a program called “Sharks Helping been an extraordinary role model for the children he has Sharks,” and also tutors members of the team mentored at Burns Sci-Tech and Edgewater Public. after the school day. Phyllis Butlien, nominated by University High School, Long always finds time to volunteer at his church. received the Outstanding School Volunteer award in He helps clean the facility and assists with the youth the adult category. She was also recently honored as a service projects, such as providing entertainment at Florida Outstanding School Volunteer by Commissioner nursing homes. Long is a role model and mentors younger of Education Dr.Tony Bennett. (See the cover article for boys in a youth group called “Discipline Boys Community additional information about this exemplary volunteer.) Project.” You might even see him pick up trash at the Also honored at the event were: Rose Bryon Children’s Center. Long states he enjoys • Science teacher Maureen Mack and volunteer every minute of volunteering and feels it has provided him Tammy Blackburn from Heritage with the numerous opportunities. Outstanding Elementary Teacher/Volunteer Team Award; Edward Ehrenspeck was honored as Outstanding • Music Teacher Craig Uppercue and volunteer Amy School Volunteer in the senior category. Affectionately Uppercue from Freedom Elementary School with the known as “Rocket Man” at Burns Science-Technology Outstanding Middle-High Teacher/Volunteer Team Award; Charter, Ehrenspeck supplies exceptional curriculum and enhancements made possible through his relationship • Campbell Middle School and Freedom Elementary with the Kennedy Space Center. Ehrenspeck became a School with the Parent Involvement Award for programs trained NASA education volunteer upon his retirement. that increase parent participation. Since then he has provided numerous presentations and has arranged special tours for classrooms. For information on volunteering, contact Pat Travis, At Burns Sci-Tech, Ehrenspeck teaches rocketry facilitator for volunteer/partnership programs, at (386) during the day in the school’s aviation learning lab and also 734-7190, 255-6475 or 427-5223, extension 38381 or the in the afterschool program. He provides all the necessary individual volunteer coordinator at your local school. Page 6 the Educator

Freedom Field Day alongside Blue Lake’s Her poster was sent on to compete in the AREA I NEWS class of fifth graders. The students from both Deep South Regional competition and once schools gathered at Blue Lake to participate in again she took 1st place. Sofia’s poster will Mr. Tom Russell various recreational activities and relays such now compete at the national level. Good as: water brigade, dizzy bat, scooters, egg race, luck, Sofia! Area Superintendent plunger relay, hoop shoot and football throw, which was followed by lunch and a tug-o-war Coronado Beach Elementary School Atlantic High School tournament in the afternoon. Fifth graders Veteran soldiers, MSgt Sam Mastrogiacomo and • Keisha Wallace, Atlantic High, was named are like the “seniors” of elementary school. Tech Sgt Ed Safford of the U.S. Army Air Corp, secondary level first year teacher winner at This event was designed to be unique and brought history to life as they shared their World the annual FUTURES First Year Teacher special- something only for them. Due to the War II experiences with 5th grade students at recognition. This program honors recent rezoning, several students that used to Coronado Beach Elementary School in March. outstanding first year teachers in Volusia attend Freedom now attend Blue Lake and As members of the “Old Soldiers Club” and County Schools. Congratulations Ms. vice versa. This event was a fun opportunity volunteer speakers for the History In Our Schools Wallace! to get together with “old and new” friends, program sponsored by Timeless Wings and Wheels • Atlantic High was the third stop in the week- especially since most of them will be going to Museum of NSB, the veterans told of hair-raising experiences during their service in the U.S. Army long program sponsored by Rue, Ziffra & middle school together. Caldwell law firm to increase awareness about Air Corp. Wide-eyed students were bewildered the dangers of texting and driving. Students Chisholm Elementary School at the thought of being shot at thousands of feet were invited to assemblies in the theatre and • Marla DeLoach Griffin, school above the earth and living to tell of it as MSgt to the “hands on” driving experience. The counselor at Mastrogiacomo gave his account of being a gunner Don’t Text and Drive event provided students Chisholm on board a B-24 aircraft. Tech Sgt Safford told of the opportunity to see how dangerous Elementar y, learning to communicate in a whole new language distracted drivers are when texting. Students coordinated the as a radio technician when he learned Morse used the simulator while others view it on school’s annual Code to relay coordinates and carry out successful screens set up nearby. At the end of the day FCAT Pep Rally missions aboard his B-17. The gentlemen were many students and staff had signed the pledge complemented accompanied by museum director, Carole Norville, to not text and drive. by the SGA’s and co-director, Claudia Putney. The veterans Spirit Week patiently answered all of the students’ questions Blue Lake Elementary School activities. Music and encouraged the students to continue their fight

• The 2nd and 3rd grade classes of Blue Lake teacher, Lisa for freedom and peace in the world. Elementary performed the musical “How Lanier, led the Does Your Garden Grow?” on Thursday crowd in cheers and chants, Extended Day evening, May 23. The program began at director Ashley Rossi cranked up the crowd 6 p.m. in the school’s multipurpose room with the Wildcat Cheerleaders, and Nikki (282 N. Blue Lake Avenue, DeLand). The Dill dazzled the attendees with a performance musical, directed by the school’s music and of her dancing Lady Cats. Principal Carter drama teachers, Patrick Rossi and Tricia Arel, inspired the students to do their best on the was written by Roger Emerson and John test. Jacobson. This musical play for young voices takes the audience on a journey to Herb’s magical garden where the seeds have sprouted and the petals are blooming. That is, until the weeds begin to take over! If you joined Blue Lake for this garden hoe-down be sure to let Debary Elementary School them know! • During March, four of the DeBary Elementary • This spring Blue Lake Elementary had the Florida Future Problem Solving (FPS) teams amazing opportunity to promote friendship attended state competition. Ethan Lasher and goodwill by inviting the fifth grade won 1st place in the junior multi-school division. Matthew Frasco and Coral Estes students from Freedom Elementary to come • Sofia Miranda, a 5th grader in Ms. and participate in the first ever Blue Lake/ won the Grand Championship award in the McDonald’s class at Chisholm Elementary, Community Problem Solving division with News and events/activities provided by each school. If has won again. Earlier in the year, Sofia took their after school tutoring project called “A+ you wish to share information regarding your school, 1st place in the New Smyrna Beach Garden and Beyond.” Matthew and Coral will now Club’s Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl poster please contact “The Educator” editor via email at : advance to the International Competition contest and she went on the take 1st place [email protected]. at Indiana University and compete against at the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs. students from all over the world. June 2013 Page 7

• SGA, sponsored by Stephanie Sanders, has Luke Branz. They will compete in the state Volusia County Council member; Nancy been working diligently all year to support competition on April 6 at the University of Schliecher, Deltona City Commissioner; and John the community in numerous ways. These Central Florida. Masiarczyk, Mayor of Deltona, all participated in students brought smiles and laughs monthly reading a book to various classrooms. Thank you, to the senior residents at DeBary Manor by Deltona Lakes Elementary School local officials!

hosting a monthly bingo game. SGA hit the • Deltona Lakes Elementary participated in the pavement hard and showed their perseverance Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Pasta for Freedom Elementary School in supporting charities that are nationwide Pennies campaign. Over $2,200 was raised. Ms. DiPadova’s first grade class planted and but have served many local residents. The Each student who donated at least one dollar cultivated an organic garden on the school campus. SGA has a very impressive record this year received a paper penny on display. More than The students have grown cold weather vegetables raising $1,133.58 for Past for Pennies, $51 for 75 “pennies” adorn the cafeteria wall. Mrs. such as carrots, mustard greens, kale and cabbage MDA, and $100 for Relay for Life Walk, pop Castro’s third grade class collected the most and they lead tours of the garden for the other tabs for the Ronald McDonald House, and money and, for their accomplishment, they classes. Ms. DiPadova uses the garden experience collecting Christmas toys for local children, enjoyed an ice cream party and the traditional to teach cause-effect, measurement, elapsed time, holiday gifts for the seniors at DeBary Manor, Olive Garden pasta party. plant life cycle, and many other Common Core

and pet food and pet supplies for the West • Student Government Association (SGA) Standards. Volusia Humane Society. Thank you Debary celebrated Friendship Month in February Elementary SGA and Mrs. Sanders for your with their Annual dedication, service, and giving back to our Twin Day: Dress community so generously. Like a Friend. SGA reminded students Deland Middle School of the DLE Creed “I • Rick Bender, “The Man Without a Face,” treat everyone politely. will be speaking to DeLand Middle students Showing respect for during Tobacco Free Florida Week in April. others shows that I He spoke about the dangers involved in respect myself.” Each using tobacco products and sharing his own class was asked to personal experiences. For more information vote for the friendliest about Rick Bender, read an article in the student. Under the direction of guidance Tampa Bay Times about his visit to Pasco counselor, Mrs. Bondinell, SGA came up County students. with a list of the Top 10 Friendship Qualities Friendship Elementary School • DeLand Middle students won big at the noted in students who had a lot of friends. • Friendship Elementary held its first SAC Odyssey of the Mind Regional Competition, The list includes: Caring, Share. Respectful, Technology Fair in April. Organizer Jessica an international creative problem-solving Responsible, Patient, Not Bossy or a Bully, Aivazis, Friendship’s SAC Chair and Assistant competition for students of all ages. Each Helpful, Nice to People, Dress Neatly, and Principal, planned a fun evening for parents team selects a problem, creates a solution, Interested in other people. to learn about the school’s technology. then presents their solution in a competition SAC business partner, Nilda Acevedo from against other teams in the same problem Enterprise Elementary School Best Buy, conducted a session on parental and division. At the competition teams are On March 1, millions of children took part controls using technology. Friendship presented a spontaneous problem to solve in Read Across America Day to celebrate the teachers and the media specialist conducted on site. With the support of their parents birthday of Dr. Seuss. technology sessions introducing Common and the DeLand Breakfast Rotary Club, a Enterprise Elementary Core Standards and iPad technology. team of DeLand Middle students competed had a special day for Clickers were introduced to parents by using against other schools in the “Pet Project” Read Across America. FCAT 2.0 sample questions in an effort Division. They took first place in the regional Local officials came to familiarize parents with FCAT questions competition in February. In addition, they to the school and along with the Student Response System. won the Runatra Fusca Creativity Award, served as role models Friendship’s National Elementary Honor which is a highly coveted award. The team by reading to the Society members participated as part of members were: Alan Bailey, Matthew Bailey, children. Ann McFall, their service to the community. Best Buy Natalie Schwerdfeger, Courtney Gifford and County Supervisor of kindly donated web cams and headphones Elections; Pat Northey, which were used for parent door prizes and the school donated a $20 Toys R Us gift “Florida’s Finest” card, which was a big hit with the students. Parents were introduced to the SAC process and encouraged to become an active part of Florida FFA recently announced the selection of “Florida’s Finest” FFA Chapters. The SAC. selection of these chapters is based upon the completion of the National Chapter Award • In a three year partnership, Friendship program application. These chapters have excelled in the areas of student, chapter and Elementary and the University of Central community development and have worked hard to fulfill the mission of the FFA. One Florida have collaborated to implement a member and one advisor from each of these chapters will be recognized on the main stage yearlong, co-teaching residency for teacher during the 2nd General Session of the 85th Florida FFA Convention on Wednesday, June candidates. Recently, the schools’ efforts 12. In addition, each of these chapters will represent Florida at the national level in the were rewarded by earning The National National Chapter Award Program. Volusia’s finest are: Deltona High, DeLand Middle, Association for Professional Development Schools (NAPDS) Award for Exemplary New Smyrna Beach High and University High. Professional Development School Page 8 the Educator

Achievement. A team, including Vicky put on the Artist Trading Card Wall of Fame. for Volusia Students Create, as well as to have their Cardullo from University of Central Florida, Students’ names were placed in a drawing artwork displayed in the School Board Chamber in Maria Martoral, Lenora Forsythe, and Tricia making them eligible for an opportunity to DeLand. A piece by Danielle Henson, third grade, Dowdell from Friendship was on hand at select a card from the Artist Trading Card was chosen to be displayed in the Volusia School the NAPDS National Conference in New Wall. This type of trading began in 1997 and Board chamber for a month to help celebrate Orleans to receive the award. The team is a worldwide trading network which can Youth Art Month. The Osteen students selected to earned the award by submitting a paper be big business with famous artists; however, have their work in Volusia Students Create include: highlighting the collaborative work between the school’s sole purpose is to encourage the Giana Offley, third grade; Kaylee Hollifield, fifth Friendship and the UCF teacher candidate artist in everybody. PTA provided snacks and grade; and Luke Ouellette, third grade. program. The collaborative program enhances brought many materials for the event. teacher preparation and increases student • As part of the Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser Pierson Elementary School achievement. Not willing to rest on their to benefit the American Heart Association, the The VanGo Mobile Museum Exhibit arrived at laurels, the winning team went on to share entire student body at Indian River Elementary Pierson Elementary in February allowing all of the their story with the nation of Professional watched as students “pie-faced” Coach Bob school’s students to experience the free museum Development schools. They presented a Schultz and Coach Brett Robitzsch. The field trip. The only program of its kind in Florida, workshop session entitled Changing the Way children worked on the jumping during PE VanGo provides educational, interactive exhibits We Do Business: A Two Way Street of class and then collected the money for the featuring original and regional art that is linked to Collaborative Practice. American Heart Association. Coach Schultz world art and culture. and Coach Heritage Middle School Robitzsch • Ashley Dumas, Pine Ridge High junior, won • A colossal congratulations to the Heritage agreed Middle School Science Olympiad team and first place for high schools in the Bethune to allow Cookman University 4th Annual Dr. Mary Mr. Cimino for competing against 130 teams students in the Science Olympiad State finals in McLeod Bethune Women’s essay contest. She who raised will receive a $100 scholarship for her essay March. Heritage placed 1st among all public $50 or more schools and finished 3rd in the state. Way to entitled “Enhancing Character.” to smear a • Congratulations to the Pine Ridge High go Heritage! Extra congratulations go out to whip cream the team’s top winners: Emily Johnson and ESE Department for receiving a $5,840 pie in their grant from the University of South Florida Jesus Sanchez finished 1st in the rock and faces. Some minerals competition; Emily Johnson finished Project 10 as an Exemplary Transition Site. students had The grant money will be used for continuing 3rd in the disease detectives competition; even collected enough for two pies! Taylor Precopio finished 2nd in the boom support of the PRHS ESE transition lever competition; Kim Sapp finished 2nd in New Smyrna Beach Middle School program. The grant was a collaborative effort the forestry competition; Matthew Hansen • The New Smyrna Beach Middle dance team including: Sandra Gatrell, Sharonda Elliot, finished 3rd in the meteorology competition; competed in the “Contest of Champions” Fred Zollinger, Brooke Braly and Patrick and Eddie Lindberg and Jesus Sanchez National Dance Competition recently at the Mulvihill (Project 10). finished 3rd in the shock value competition. Wide World of Sports in Orlando. The team River Springs Middle School

• Heritage Middle received a check for $2,000 placed first in the junior high/middle school • The River Springs Middle Student from the American Library Association to high kick division. Government Association (SGA) is working to

purchase books and eBooks. Marc Ortiz, • New Smyrna Beach Middle students recently raise money to have skateboard racks (similar an 8th grade Heritage student, entered the attended the 24th Annual Women in Aviation to bike racks) installed at the school in WrestleMania challenge by writing a letter Day at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. memory of student Colin Anderson. Colin to his favorite wrestler, CM Punk, and Twenty 6th and 7th grade young ladies was tragically struck by a car while riding his convincing him to read his favorite book, participated in activities designed to educate skateboard and did not survive his injuries. “Stormbreaker” by Anthony Horowitz. Marc and motivate them to pursue careers in the The school is also the recipient of 40 BMX was selected as the regional winner. He spent fields of math and science. They also learned helmets in Colin’s memory donated by Ricky a weekend in New Jersey meeting all his about career opportunities in aerospace fields Bates BMX Banned Together, Inc. They are favorite wrestlers, attended WrestleMania and such as air traffic control, engineering, flight a non-profit company whose main goal is to competed in the Battle of the Book. maintenance and meteorology. The day promote bike and skateboard safety. culminated with a guest speaker from Disney Indian River Elementary School and lunch. Spirit Elementary School

• Artist Trading Card Night at Indian River • Spirit Elementary women were out in force Elementary was a huge success drawing close Orange City Elementary School in Orange City, on Saturday, May 11, at to 600 students, parents and guest artists. Orange City Elementary hosted a Science Night the Habitat for Humanity Women’s Build. The event was for their families. The Orlando Science Center Female Spirit employees carried trusses for sponsored by presented a Kaboom! show about matter. There the roof of the new house and helped to nail teachers, Steve were 15 interactive labs for families to participate them down. Over 25 women were there to Hardock and John in. It was also a night to recognize students with Kinsey. Before stellar science achievement and fifth grade projects. the event students To top it off, there was a science project gallery designed and drew eight or more cards during walk in the media center. It was a great night to art classes and at home. The cards were then celebrate science. put into a protective sleeve and brought to the event for trading. Eighteen guest artists Osteen Elementary School also produced beautiful cards, which were Several Osteen Elementary students were selected June 2013 Page 9

help most of the day. Team). Twice a week, students in Ms. Beaty’s Teams advancing to state are: MRC (Medical • Spirit Elementary coaches gave their all for class visited students from Ms. Coffin’s and Reserve Corp) – Previn Coleman and Lauren the Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser. Coach Ms. Cemelich’s classes and participated in Bernosky – 2nd place and Extemporaneous Duoos said he’d shave his head if students the social skills class by partnering with Speaking – Paul Bebee – 2nd place. raised $3,000. They raised that and more students and assisting them in their activities and so another challenge came out - if staff and assignments. Each Friday, Ms. Beaty’s Ms. Annette Martinson and students raised another $150 by the next students conducted an activity with their morning Coach Shaffer would also shave partners, such as designing a Jeopardy game, AREA II NEWS her head! Well, Spirit pulled together and participating in birthday parties or creating raised it and both coaches were treated to a skits that teach team work skills. Students Area Superintendent new ‘hairdo’ on the morning news show with most definitely benefitted from being involved the two top fundraisers getting to start the in the P.I.T. Crew by further developing their haircuts. Way to put it all on the line coaches! social skills and gaining an appreciation for Champion Elementary School the diverse population of students that attend Champion Elementary took part in the 2012-2013 Sunrise Elementary School Taylor Middle-High. Ronald McDonald pop tabs program. In this On May 1, community members, business program students collected the pop tabs to recycle partners, elected officials and district personnel Timbercrest Elementary School and help raise money for the Ronald McDonald were guest speakers at Sunrise Elementary to launch Every year, the Very Special Arts Volusia and House. Pop tabs from each school will be weighed the school’s One Book, One School program. One Florida hold a talent show for students with and the number of pounds collected will be novel was selected for all teachers to read to their exceptionalities from Volusia and Flagler County. translated into dollars and donated to Ronald students. The guest speakers had the opportunity This year, the VSA arranged for artists, musicians McDonald house Charities of Central Florida to dedicate the book to the class they visited, where and dancers from the community to work regularly to help families with sick children. This year they read the first chapter. The book was then left with five Volusia County schools to create a the students and staff at Champion Elementary with the class. special performance or artwork to present at the collected 187 lbs of pop tabs. Everyone at the Talent Show. Timbercrest Elementary’s separate school was excited to help and were thrilled with Taylor Middle-High School class students, grades K-5, have been working since what they accomplished by working together.

• Taylor Middle-High 6th grade student, Alyssa January with local jazz musician George Sword Smith, won 3rd place in an essay contest on a special ensemble using Boom whackers. Blaine Woodruff and Rylee Stives help Mr. Dale sponsored by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Boom whackers are a set of colorful tubes each pour in the pop tabs to be taken to the recycling University (ERAU). Alyssa competed with uniquely tuned to play one note. The students other middle school girls addressing the and Mr. Sword performed at a talent show on prompt, “How do your decisions of today Friday, May 3 at the Ormond Beach Performing affect your dreams of tomorrow?” Alyssa was Arts Center. The students relied on fundraising recognized at the Women in Aviation Day through a school wide candy sale and donations to held at ERAU on April 2. The university, in rent a bus and buy matching “costumes” for this conjunction with Volusia County Schools, performance. hosted the 24th annual Women in Aviation Day. This program is designed for middle University High School school girls with a 2.5 or higher grade point • In March, the University High Culinary average that would like to explore careers in Gourmet team and Culinary Marketing math, science or aviation/aerospace related team competed at the state level with 60 center. The pounds collected will be translated fields. Activities included navigation exercises, schools across Florida. The gourmet team, into dollars and donated to the Ronald McDonald flight simulations and a tour of static displays. Alex Phillips, Wilber Perez and Garrett House Charity. Embry-Riddle students and volunteers lead Cohen, ranked 6th out of 60 teams. The various hands-on activities and the day culinary marketing team, Sarah Blair, Chantal Citrus Grove Elementary School culminated with a guest speaker and lunch. Pacquette, Cassandra Izequidero and Kyle • Citrus Grove Elementary is thrilled to A total of 30 Taylor Middle-High school 6th Patterson, ranked 11th out of 60 teams. Their announce that two students were chosen as grade girls attended the event. Alyssa received project will also go to the Volusia County winners of the Walk Safe Statewide Poster a gift certificate for two free boat or kayak Literacy Fair. Contest for Volusia County. This program tours at the Marine Discovery Center and a • Members of University High’s HOSA is funded through the University of Miami $75 gift certificate toward a 2013 GEMS or (Health Occupations Student Association) Miller School of Medicine. These two STEM Camp hosted by ERAU. competed at state competition recently at • Students from Ms. Beaty’s Law Studies class Disney’s Coronado Springs. Two of the eight News and events/activities provided by each school. If at Taylor Middle-High partnered with Ms. teams advanced to the HOSA National you wish to share information regarding your school, Cemelich’s and Ms. Coffin’s Multi V.E. classes Competition. Congratulations to all HOSA please contact “The Educator” editor via email at : as part of the P.I.T. Crew (Peer Inclusion members and their sponsor Ms. Clayton. [email protected]. Page 10 the Educator

students received a pair of sneakers as a prize. grade; and first place - Alexandra Triplett, Chef Costa explained the history of chocolate and • The Daytona Beach Museum of Arts and 5th grade. prepared chocolate beverages and confections, Sciences provided exciting hands-on activities demonstrating chocolate’s uses through the ages. for Citrus Grove Elementary families during PDK is a professional organization of K-12 and

Family Science Night. The students had a • The Deltona High campus beautification higher education teachers and administrators chance to explore electric circuits, magnets, (Phase 1) took place in April. The focus of robotics, and even a mobile Planetarium. the day centered on the grounds, primarily Every class in the school performed a science raking leaves and pulling up weeds. All clubs project and created a board. These boards and and athletic teams participated in the effort the fifth grade science projects were displayed and students earned volunteer hours. It is in the media center. Seven Citrus Grove the schools hope that the teams/clubs will students were chosen to represent the school continue to maintain this area throughout the in the county science fair. It was a fabulous year. “Adopted by” signs will be placed in the night full of science fun. various locations around campus indicating the group that has taken responsibility for Creekside Middle School its upkeep. Principal Susan Freeman stated, Creekside Middle U.S. History Teacher, D’Anna “This is ‘OUR’ school…let’s make it a who support public education through research, Meade, was recognized by the South Daytona/Port beautiful place to be!” Approximately 100 leadership, and service. Orange Chamber of Commerce as a Crystal Apple students, 40 staff and 15 parents participated. Winner for her outstanding efforts and innovation McInnis Elementary School in teaching 8th graders. Holly Hill School McInnis Elementary held “Slime Day!” The event

• Eighth grade Knights participated in a was a Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser to benefit Cypress Creek Elementary School marathon tour of D.C. The Tour included the American Heart Association and included an

• Meryl Liu, a 4th grade Cypress Creek a visit to Mount Vernon, home of our ice cream party and “slime the principal” incentive. Elementary student in Port Orange, was nation’s first president, as well as the Principal Alba Perez agreed to allow students who named the Doodle 4 Google state winner memorial sites throughout the city. Students could each raise $10 throw a cupful of “slime” at for Florida on May 1. The national winner returned to celebrate the close of the year with her. The slime was created by 5th grade students will be selected by the public voting online Gradventure at Universal Orlando on Friday, who participated in a special science project to for their favorite doodle. Voting closed on May 10, and their annual 8th Grade Dance create a safe substance for skin contact with May 10. The national winner will receive a May 24. what they considered to have both acceptable

$30,000 college scholarship and a $50,000 • Holly Hill School held two wonderful, consistency and color. The slime was made from technology grant for their school. Doodle fun-filled activities to raise money for the food coloring and applesauce. The students raised 4 Google is an art competition open to all American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life; $1,659. K-12 students in the United States to create the Hats Off for a Cure fundraiser (or shall their own Google doodle. This year’s theme we say FUN-raiser?) where students donated Ormond Beach Elementary School was “My Best Day Ever.” Meryl’s drawing .50 cents and wore their favorite hat to Two Ormond Beach Elementary students were is a self-portrait of her spending the day in school for the day as a way of saying Hats selected to show artwork in the 41st Annual the forest with endangered birds. Meryl off for a Cure! Also, the PTSA sponsored its Volusia Students Create K-12 Art Show. Student wants to “study them in order to save them.” second Family Movie Night of the year with representatives were Robert Pohl, a second grader, Her entry was one of more than 130,000 hotdogs, popcorn, candy and drinks. The and Julian Wood, a fourth grader. The show was entries nationwide. Meryl will travel with her featured movie for the evening was “Rise of held at the Gateway Center for the Arts. With family to New York City for the final awards the Guardians.“ over 1,000 artworks entered, judges chose less than ceremony on May 22, where the national 200 for the show. Thank you to art teacher, Mr. winner will be announced. All 50 state Wendell Fuller, for his inspirational teaching and winners will receive a t-shirt printed with Recently, the local Phi Delta Kappa (PDK) chapter guidance. their doodles on it and will also have their sponsored an evening event showcasing culinary doodle displayed in a special exhibition at the education in Volusia County Schools. Students Ormond Beach Middle School American Museum of National History in of Chef Jason Kester, culinary teacher at Mainland During May’s Breakfast of Champions at New York City. High, prepared gourmet starters, a salmon entrée Ormond Beach Middle, students heard • Cypress Creek Elementary took the first, and chocolate mousse for their guests. Connecting remarks of encouragement and praise from second and third place winning slots in high school career education with the college Edgar Scott, who served as an administrator the Crime Stoppers Poster Contest at the experience, the guest speaker was Chef Costa elementary level. Congratulations to the Magoulas, Dean of the School of Hospitality, at News, events, and activities provided by each school. If following students and their teacher, Mrs. Daytona State College. With the audience, Chef you wish to share information regarding your school, Hanna: third place - Jennifer Russell, 4th Costa shared the high level of sophistication of the please contact “The Educator” editor via email at: students’ cooking, presentation and service. After grade; second place - Leah Larrimore, 3rd [email protected] presenting information about the DSC program, June 2013 Page 11 at OBMS for 19 years before his retirement. Pine Trail Elementary School She is only the second student from Seabreeze to Students and • Recently, school and community members receive a scholarship through this program. of Pine Trail Elementary celebrated the their families Southwestern Middle School were also treated opening of their high tech iMac computer • Recently, the Southwestern Middle ESE to a culinary lab. Through exhaustive fundraising efforts, department along with the Jr. Council for breakfast the PTA was able to contribute $30,000 Exceptional Children group sponsored a buffet hosted to purchase 36 iMac computers. The new fundraiser recognizing Autism Awareness Day. by Family and computer lab will enable teachers to develop Students/faculty/staff wore blue for “Light It Consumer lessons incorporating technology and Up Blue” and donated funds collected from S c i e n c e empower students to develop their own $1 Hat Day. Autism Spectrum Disorders teacher, Erica media projects to demonstrate their mastery are diagnosed in one in 88 children and Johnson, and of standards. Students are extremely excited one in 54 boys in the United States. Autism her students. about the new iMacs and incredibly engaged is a complex neurobiological disorder that Honored in learning while utilizing them. Pine Trail inhibits a person’s ability to communicate students and their families enjoyed a freshly also formed an after school technology and develop social relationships, and is often prepared meal, presented on decorated club for kids and are providing training accompanied by behavioral challenges. plates with silverware and table cloths. for teachers and eventually, parents. The • The CEC (Council for Exceptional Children) Throughout the year, this monthly event, Pioneer Technology Club, or PTC, meets Annual Awards Ceremony/Banquet was held sponsored by media specialist, Sharon each Thursday with Mr. Waterman, a 5th in April, which recognized and honored Martin, has recognized over 40 students who grade teacher. There are about 20 5th grade special educators and those who support have demonstrated a renewed commitment students in the club. The main goal is to special education in Volusia County. to reading and significantly improved their teach kids how to use technology to create Southwestern Middle congratulates Ernie literacy skills. projects to enhance learning for themselves and other students. For example, the students Santana (Auxiliary Support Person of the Palm Terrace Elementary School recently learned how to use Glogster for Year), Nancy Kinsley (Professional Support The Volusia County Health Department School digital posters and SonicPics for podcasting. Person of the Year), and Elizabeth Kempe Board Sealant Program gave approximately 200 Soon students will create videos to showcase (General Ed Inclusion Teacher of the Year). students at Palm Terrace Elementary a reason to exemplary classes at Pine Trail, make tutorials Spruce Creek Elementary School smile. The preventative dental program provided to help students in math, and develop a TV • Spruce Creek Elementary recently held its oral hygiene show to teach cool science lessons. second annual Family Game Night with instructions, • Students and families raised $8,000 for their more than 100 participants. PTA sold pizza nutritional PTA walkathon. Principal Susan Persis and families played various board games, counseling, agreed to kiss a horse to say thanks for this which reinforced math and reading skills. protective sealant, successful school-wide event. The event also brings families together for and fluoride family time and promotes character traits, treatments for Port Orange Elementary School such as sharing, patience and courtesy. students in first, • Port Orange Elementary invited students second and third and families to the annual Tiger Artists’ grade. The dental Trading Card Night, which was held April team consists of 11. Students created and traded miniature a public health artwork, met and traded with local guest dentist, a registered artists, entered door prizes, and enjoyed dental hygienist, and certified dental assistants that music for an evening of fun. Two Tiger travel to county public schools. Artists’ works are on display at the DeLand Boardroom. They are: Renee Sanders “Windy Pathways Elementary School Night” and Vanessa Christaldi “Artist Trading • Pathways Elementary first graders receive Card, Tree of Life.” Vanessa Christaldi was

special help from the “Plant People” with able to present her card to School Board • The Orlando Science Center brought Science their greenhouse projects. Ms. Vicki Trainer Member Ida Wright at a recent school board Festival to Spruce Creek Elementary on from the “Plant People” has been volunteering meeting. April 30. There was a Kaboom! show for her time and supplies to work with the first • Port Orange Elementary recently competed all students during the day and a Family graders in the greenhouse. On her first visit in the Odyssey of the Mind Regional Meet Science Night in the evening. The Kaboom! she brought various grasses, shrubs and plants at Seminole High School. The Odyssey show is a theatrical performance that so the students would be able to identify the of the Mind program promotes creativity introduces experiments and demonstrations differences. On her next visit, she helped by challenging teams to solve divergent about physical science. The Science Festival them plant vegetables. problems, that is, those with more than generated enthusiasm for science with an • Pathways Elementary currently has 60 one solution. Each team had to solve a array of experiments and demonstrations. students in grades 3-5 that have read at least problem and perform a skit to promote it. Families participated in hands-on activities, three Sunshine Reading books and passed the This year’s problem included: Pet Project, which supplement the science curriculum. reading counts quiz that goes along with the Tumble-wood and Classics ARTchitecture: book. The Sunshine State Young Readers The Musical. • The Spruce Creek High “High Stepping voting party was held April 9. Reading is Hawks” band won the Best Overall Band important to everyone and we are so proud of award after performing in Dublin, Ireland’s our students who took the time to read these Victoria Green, Seabreeze High student, will “World Famous St. Patty’s Day Parade.” challenging books on their own. receive a $3,000 scholarship from Tractor Supply through the National FFA Scholarship Program. The marching Hawks were invited to the Page 12 the Educator

southern capital city to perform in the event participating (18 PreK students and 18 high Westside Elementary School by Dublin Lord Mayor Andrew Montague school students). Tooth News: Westside Elementary is so excited to a year ago. Band members, their parents, report that the Volusia County Health Department teachers and supporters raised $500,000 to Sweetwater Elementary School provided preventive oral health care to all grades cover the cost of the trip, which included Grace Agostinis, a 2nd grader at Sweetwater this year. Parents were required to return a the Spruce Creek symphony and marching Elementary, stood in her front lawn selling permission slip for the children to take advantage bands, three jazz bands, two concert bands lemonade to passersby. When the day was of this fantastic service. The outcomes were all and the color guard. finished, she told her mom she wanted to children in grades K – 5 received oral hygiene • Spruce Creek High’s Graphic Art class visited give the money to someone less fortunate instructions and nutritional counseling on how to Spruce Creek Elementary’s Blended PreK than herself. Her mom took her to see keep their teeth healthy. More than 300 children class on May 8, to promote reading. For her school guidance counselor and assistant received examinations and fluoride varnish the last 7 years, Mrs. Gokey’s PreK class treatments, 217 children needed and received principal to assist her in locating a group for and Mrs. Jesup’s Graphic Arts class have preventive sealants for a total of 1,034 sealants. been working together to provide a Literacy the donations. The Children’s Home Society Children with urgent care needs were referred to Links experience between the PreK students of Port Orange was suggested and mom offices for a follow-up. Westside truly appreciates and the high school students. This project took her to see the children. Upon arrival, its wonderful partnership with the Volusia County is geared to encourage young readers to Grace saw a need for more. She held two Health Department and their efforts to educate engage more in the reading process through more lemonade stand sales and donated the our students in the importance of oral hygiene. the special books created just for them by proceeds to the home. While speaking with the high school students. Every January the supervisors during her last visit, Grace or February, the students meet for the first learned that when the children residing in the time to discuss interest and hobbies, favorite colors and stories. Then, the high school home visit the doctor, they receive a new pair students return to their art room where they of pajamas and a book to read. The books, she work for the next three months on writing learned, were dwindling in numbers and were and illustrating a book reflecting the interest often outdated and in poor condition. She of each student in the PreK class. The high took it upon herself to approach the assistant school students returned on May 8 with the principal and asked if she could conduct a completed, printed and bound books, which book drive through the school. Grace was were personalized for their PreK Literacy featured on the morning announcements Link partner. They read and discussed the and flyers went home to parents to aid in books with the young readers before giving them their copy. As a follow up, the PreK promoting her project. The book drive was students will write, draw and dictate thank held May 13-31. At the end of the drive, you notes. Approximately 36 students will be Grace will present the books to the Children’s Home Society at a date to be determined. EDEP Offering Summer Programs

Several schools will host Extended Day Enrichment Programs (EDEP) this summer, taking place June 10 through August 9 (closed on July 4), 2013. The enrolled students will participate in educational activities, as well as recreational activities, including, but not limited to, water play, arts and crafts, sports, talent shows, plays, concerts, and “carnival” days. Each site has fun and interesting field trips planned for those attending the programs. Operating hours are generally 7:00 am until 5:45 pm each day. All registered Volusia County Schools’ students in Kindergarten through fifth grade are welcome to register. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please check the web site for summer sites and contact the individual Site Facilitators for more specific information. June 2013 Page 13 Volusia 2013 Graduation Schedule Graduation ceremonies will be held for area high schools beginning May 30 and ending June 2. Admission will be $3 per person. Parking will be $5 for ceremonies held at the Daytona Beach Ocean Center. Tickets will be presold at each of the high schools. Below is a list of the district’s graduation ceremonies and information related to the graduating classes of 2013.

Atlantic High School Baccalaureate: Sunday, May 26, 6 p.m. Class Colors: red and white Graduation: Friday, May 31, 7:30 p.m., Daytona Providence Church Class Flower: Hibiscus Beach Ocean Center Class Motto: “The greatest pleasure in life is Approximate number of graduates: 225 doing what people say you cannot do.” Spruce Creek High School Senior Awards: Tuesday, May 28, 6:30 p.m., Class Song:“Walking on a Dream” by Empire Graduation: Saturday, June 1, 8 p.m., Daytona Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church of the Sun Beach Ocean Center Baccalaureate: Monday, May 20, 7 p.m., Our Class Colors: blue and gold Approximate number of graduates: 678 Lady of Hope Catholic Church, Port Orange Class Flower: Blue Rose Senior Awards:Thursday, May 30, 7 p.m., First Class Motto: “There are only two days in the Baptist Church of Daytona Beach year that nothing can be done. One is called New Smyrna Beach High School Baccalaureate: Tuesday, May 28, 7 p.m., First Yesterday and the other is called Tomorrow. Graduation: Sunday, June 2, 3:30 p.m., Daytona Baptist Church of Daytona Beach Today is the right day to Love, Believe, Do Beach Ocean Center Class Motto: “The future belongs to those and mostly Live.” – Dalai Lama XIV Approximate number of graduates: 420 who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Class Song: “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey Senior Awards: Thursday, May 30, 6:30 p.m., Eleanor Roosevelt Class Colors: teal, silver and black New Smyrna Beach High School Auditorium Class Song:“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey Class Flower: Tiger Lily Baccalaureate: Tuesday, May 28, 7 p.m., First Class Colors: black and gold Baptist Church, Family Life Center Class Flower:Tiger Lily DeLand High School Class Motto: “We may not know where we Graduation: Sunday, June 2, 7:30 p.m., Daytona are going, but we are on our way.” - Unknown Taylor Middle-High School Beach Ocean Center Class Song: “How Far We’ve Come” by Graduation: Thursday, May 30, 7 p.m., Approximate number of graduates: 535 Matchbox Twenty Edmunds Center, Stetson University Senior Awards: Wednesday, May 1, 7 p.m., Class Colors: red, black and white Approximate number of graduates: 124 DeLand High School Auditorium Class Flower: Night Blooming Cereus Senior Awards:Wednesday, May 15, 6:30 p.m., Baccalaureate: Tuesday, May 28, Time/Place: Taylor Middle-High School Auditorium TBA Pine Ridge High School Baccalaureate: Wednesday, May 29, 6:30 p.m., Class Motto:“Best you have ever seen” Graduation: Saturday, June 1, 1 p.m., Daytona Taylor Middle-High School Auditorium Class Song:“We Are Young” by Fun Beach Ocean Center Class Motto: “I’m so glad we had this time Class Colors: green and gold Approximate number of graduates: 375 together, just to have a laugh or sing a song, Class Flower: Forget-Me-Not Senior Awards:Thursday, May 23, 7 p.m., Pine seems we just get started and before you Ridge High School Auditorium know it, comes the time we have to say Deltona High School Baccalaureate: Tuesday, May 21, 6 p.m., so-long.” Graduation: Friday, May 31, 4 p.m., Daytona Deltona Lakes Baptist Church Class Song: “Laughed Until We Cried” by Beach Ocean Center Class Motto: “Life isn’t about waiting for the Jason Aldean Approximate number of graduates: 325 storm to pass…it’s about learning to dance Class Colors: black and silver Senior Awards: Thursday, May 23, 6:30 p.m., in the rain.” Class Flower: Stargazer Deltona High School Auditorium Class Song: “Good Riddance (Time of Your Baccalaureate: Tuesday, May 21, 7 p.m., Life)” by Green Day University High School Deltona Alliance Church Class Colors: teal, black, and gold Graduation: Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m., Daytona Class Motto: “Living the Dream, Class of Class Flower:White Rose Beach Ocean Center 2013.” Approximate number of graduates: 512 Class Song: “Tattoos on This Town” by Jason Seabreeze High School Senior Awards:Wednesday, May 22, 6:30 p.m., Aldean Graduation: Saturday, June 1, 4:30 p.m., Volusia County Baptist Church Class Colors: blue and silver Daytona Beach Ocean Center Baccalaureate: Wednesday, May 15, 6 p.m., Class Flower: Blue Hibiscus Approximate number of graduates: 380 Volusia County Baptist Church, Orange City Senior Awards: Monday, May 20, 6 p.m., Class Motto: “Living the Dream, Class of Mainland High School Seabreeze High School Auditorium 2013” Graduation: Sunday, June 2, noon, Daytona Baccalaureate: Thursday, May 23, 6 p.m., St Class Song:“Hall of Fame” by The Script Beach Ocean Center Brendan Catholic Church Class Colors: orange and white Approximate number of graduates: 365 Class Motto:“You can’t discover new oceans Class Flower: Lily Senior Awards: Thursday, May 23, 7 p.m., without leaving the shore.” Peabody Auditorium Class Song:“Home” by Phillip Phillips Page 14 the Educator

various district initiatives, one of which is implementing the Common Office of Professional Charter Schools Core State Standards (CCSS) with Development and Support English Language Learners (ELLs) in mind. The Common Core State Various department staff Standards are simply the academic joined in a cooperative effort to Over 200 teachers in expectations—what students must complete this year’s Annual Review Volusia’s beginning teacher program, know—in order to demonstrate Process for our current charter Empowering Educators for mastery in each subject area. schools and contracted sites. The Excellence (E3),attended the second reviews were presented at the Professional Learning Institute (PLI) Betsy Sotomayor,ESOL TOA, April 9 school board meeting, and at Daytona State College. Meg Roa, has conducted various teacher numerous positive remarks were professional development specialist, workshops for ESOL and general made by charter operators regarding created the series of events to education teachers on how to use the professionalism and positive provide teachers new to Volusia specific teaching strategies to help relationship the district has with the County Schools opportunities to ELL students master the Common charters.The review process, though develop their expertise in specific Core State Standards. Earlier this labor and time intensive, created a instructional best practices. year, Ms. Sotomayor participated in wonderful partnership opportunity Coordinating the arrangements at a workshop conducted by Pearson between the district and the charter Daytona State College was Dr. Les Education. She,and a handful of other schools as well as provided district Potter, the Faculty/Academic chair educators, provided vital input in staff a time for professional growth of the College of Education. The creating formative assessments that through collaboration. PLI event was supported by district will help the Florida Department of content specialists, Instructional Education develop its assessments Services Teachers on Assignment for ELL students. The ESOL staff and VTO trainers. has been actively informing parents of ELL students about the CCSS and This is the first year that how they can help their children at Curriculum the beginning teacher program has home to become college ready by offered the Professional Learning initiating that process as early as Institutes, and based on the feedback Kindergarten. World Languages from the teachers, the PLIs will Department become the cornerstone of the program. Here are a few of the The Department of World comments we have received from Languages has been busy with participating teachers:

June 2013 Page 15

activities and plan to use some more. year were held on May 2nd and “I’ve never experienced a Also the title suits the workshop DSC was the host. For more professional development like this. It perfectly because my students are information contact the Office was so great!” having fun while learning. They are of Professional Development and really engaged.” Support. “I have taught in “X” county for many years, and this is the best PD E3 is a comprehensive two- I’ve ever attended! I can actually use year professional development what I learned today – tomorrow!” program for all teachers new to Volusia County Schools, both “The activities were excellent, novice and veteran teachers. The I am currently using several of the final PLI of the 2013-14 school Employee Assistance Hurricane Season is Program Almost Here

NEed legal assistance? Hurricane season starts June 1 and continues Need financiAl counseling? through November 30. Are you and your Need help with Personal issues? family prepared? You should have enough You’re supplies to sustain your family for 72 hours. in Disaster prevention includes modifying your luck! home to strengthen it against storms so that you can be as safe as possible. It also includes having the supplies on hand to weather the As an employee of Volusia County storm. Visit the National Hurricane Center’s Schools, all of this and more is available to you and every member of your household free website for more information. of charge through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP is available to help • Be Informed – What to do before, employees and members of their household during and after an emergency. resolve personal and work problems through

professional assistance. All services provided • Make A Plan – Prepare, plan and stay through EAP are confidential. informed for emergencies. Download Please take a moment to visit the the Family Emergency Plan, discuss district EAP website under the Insurance the information with your family and and Employee Benefits department page for more information. You may also visit www. practice it at least twice a year. horizoncarelink.com for other free resources • Build A Kit – Build a kit for disasters provided by EAP, including free webinars. The to be prepared. A disaster supply login and password to access the site is VCS. kit is simply a collection of basic You may contact Horizon Health at 1-800-272- 7252 for detailed information on the services items your household may need in an provided or to schedule an appointment. emergency. Page 16 the Educator cÄxtáx }É|Ç âá4 Congratulations on your retirement! On behalf of Volusia County Schools and our business partners, we will commemorate the tireless years of service of those retiring the 2012-2013 school year.* WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2013 LPGA, International — International room 1000 Champions Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32124

6:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m. *Retiree free; Guest(s) $15 in advance or at the door Please RSVP to Liz Perpiñan [email protected] or (386)734-7190, ext. 20195

Special g{tÇ~ çÉâ Holland Financial to our sponsors: www.Sprint.com www.LPGAInternational.com www.HollandFinancial.com

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