Shiocton Schools SHIOCTON SCHOOL DISTRICT “Where Excellence is Expected.” PO BOX 68 SHIOCTON WI 54170-0068

School District of Shiocton Newsletter Connecting Home, School, and Community December, 2012

SPICE presents

Cookies and Milk with Santa

Saturday, December 1 9:30 a.m. until noon in the school cafeteria Winter Concert This is such a fun event that you won’t want to miss it. We will have cookie Monday, December 10, decorating and other fun activities while you wait to see Santa. Be sure to bring at 7:00 p.m. in the high school gym your camera for that treasured picture of featuring all bands and choirs your little ones visiting Santa. This event is FREE. (Fundraiser chili dinner 4:00-6:30 p.m.) LEGO Team Qualifies for State! by Steve Parker K5 Christmas Program Congratulations to our 2012 LEGO League team, the Shiocton LEGO Bolts. They had a successful regional Thursday, December 13, at 1:30 p.m. competition on November 3. Out of 17 teams, the Bolts in the cafeteria finished #1 in robot programming, in the top four for their robot design (robot, Jimathur, pictured at Grades 1-3 Holiday Program right), in the top five for robot performance, and in Thursday, December 20, at 12:45 p.m. the top four overall. The in the elementary gym judges commented on how well they performed their research project skit about osteoarthritis. The top four Grades 4-5 Holiday Program teams from the Oshkosh Regional qualified for State Competition in Mukwonago on December 8. We are Thursday, December 20, at 2:00 p.m. very proud of our team!! in the elementary gym LEGO League is an academic competition that combines teamwork, science research, computer programming, and mechanical engineering in a fun, but challenging, format. If you are interested in finding out more about the program and what is involved from a student, parent, or coach perspective, please contact me at 757-8871 or [email protected] or superintendent Chris VanderHeyden. 2 Veterans Day Program School District of Shiocton Thanks to all involved in making our Veterans Day program a N5650 Broad Street PO Box 68 success. It was nice to see the gym full of people taking a small part Shiocton, WI 54170 of their day to honor our veterans. Great breakfast, too! (920) 986-3351 FAX (920) 986-3291 State School Report Cards www.shiocton.k12.wi.us www.silacharter.com The state has released the Report Card information for all schools.

CHRIS L. VANDERHEYDEN Our high school score fell near the top of the “Meets Expectations” Superintendent range and our elementary/middle school score fell in the middle of that range. These are acceptable rankings; however, they leave room KELLY ZEINERT for improvement. We will focus our energy on insuring that students High School and SILA Principal are performing at or beyond their grade levels and that educational KIM M. GRIESBACH gaps are being narrowed. For more information, please visit the DPI Elementary/Middle School Principal Report Card site at http://reportcards.dpi.wi.gov/.

DENISE GUEX Business Manager Have an Attitude of Gratitude School Board from Dr. Alan Zimmerman President: Allen Warner Town of Maine Vice-President: Bradley Ritchie “Be thankful that you don’t already have Town of Ellington everything you desire. Clerk: David Gomm If you did, what would there be to look forward to? Village of Shiocton Be thankful when you don’t know something, Treasurer: Mary Hoffman for it gives you the opportunity to learn. Town of Bovina Member: Ray Gomm Be thankful for the difficult times. Town of Maine During those times you grow. Member: Melissa Van Dyke Be thankful for your limitations, Town of Bovina because they give you opportunities for improvement. Member: Gregory Schoettler Be thankful for each new challenge, Town of Bovina because it will build your strength and character.

All residents of the school district are Be thankful for your mistakes. welcome to attend board meetings to keep informed on school issues or to They will teach you valuable lessons. voice any concerns they may have. Be thankful when you’re tired and weary, because it means you’ve made a difference.

The Link is published monthly, from September through June, and can be It’s easy to be thankful for the good things. viewed at www.shiocton.k12.wi.us. A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who If you do not have Internet access, you are also thankful for the setbacks. may request a copy by mail by calling Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive. (920) 986-3351 ext. 517. Submit any Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, articles for publication by mail to the and they can become your blessings.” school address or by e-mail to: [email protected].

Editors: Happy Holidays! Shelley Podell, Sue Hill, Chris L. VanderHeyden Kurt Wismer

Student Editor: Emily Kelly

3 Citizen of the Year Nominations Reality Check Volunteers Needed! Parents, community members, and business owners Shiocton area residents are asked to make nominations for the 15th Annual Citizen of the Help with an interactive, hands-on financial Year Award sponsored by the Shiocton Area literacy event for high school seniors. Business League. There are no restrictions as to

Friday, January 11 the person nominated. Judging will be based on the time and effort 8:00 a.m.-noon Shiocton High School given by the person

Help our seniors test their ability nominated in support as consumers in our economy of community events. through an authentic financial event. A banquet will be held to honor the Contact Roberta Ligocki, Business Education Teacher person selected. (920) 986-3351 ext. 706 or [email protected] Mail or drop off entries at:

First National Bank N5579 State Road 76, P.O. Box 37 Shiocton, WI 54170

November Paper Drive Totals by Tim Huebner Entry deadline is January 12, 2013.

The November paper drive yielded a total of 5,860 pounds. Despite the cold weather early in the week, community members braved the elements and found a way to get the recyclables in. As a result we had an impressive fall total of 11.57 tons. NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION The next drive will be in March. This will be a great chance School District of Shiocton April 2, 2013 to get an early start on spring cleaning your garage. We really appreciate the support! We NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will have paper drives in March, April, and May. is to be held in the School District of Shiocton Dates will be announced in January. If you have on Tuesday, April 2, 2013, and that three any questions, call me at 986-3351 ext. 739. positions on the School Board are to be elected to succeed the present incumbents. The term of office for a school board member is three (3) Food and Toy Drive Still Needs Your Help years. Terms of office will begin on Monday, April 22, 2013. The present incumbents are as Classes are still competing to see who can collect the follows: most items for this year’s Food and Toy Drive. The winning classes in elementary, middle, and high school will be Bradley Ritchie rewarded with a special treat provided by Student Council. Melissa Van Dyke Different products are being featured each week, but all Allen Warner items, including monetary donations, are always welcome and NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a appreciated. Items featured in December are: Campaign Registration Statement and a Dec. 3-7 Baby products/paper goods (toilet paper, Declaration of Candidacy must be filed no later paper towels, napkins) than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 2, *Please submit monetary donations by this 2013, with the School District Clerk in the time, as we need time to shop for items. School District Office in Shiocton at N5650 Thank you! Broad Street, Shiocton, WI 54170. Dec. 10-14 Any food or toys NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that if a Dec. 17-19 Delivery to families. Families will be primary election is necessary, the primary notified of time and date. election will be held on Tuesday, February 19, We would like to thank 2013. everyone who contributes to this wonderful event! Each year David Gomm, Clerk we’re able to accommodate Board of Education more and more families thanks School District of Shiocton to this generous community!!! 4

News from the Nurse by Rebecca Ecker, RN

What is influenza (also called flu)? Certain people are at greater risk for serious

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by complications if they get the flu. This includes older influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. people, young children, pregnant women, and people It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead with certain health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a or heart disease), and persons who live in facilities like nursing homes. flu vaccine each year.

Complications of flu Signs and symptoms of flu

People who have the flu often feel Complications of flu can include bacterial some or all of these signs and symptoms: pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections,  fever* or feeling feverish/chills dehydration, and worsening of chronic  cough medical conditions, such as congestive heart  sore throat failure, asthma, or diabetes.

 runny or stuffy nose Preventing seasonal flu: Get vaccinated  muscle or body aches The single best way to prevent the flu is  headaches to get a flu vaccine each season. There are  fatigue (very tired) two types of flu vaccines:  Some people may have vomiting  Flu shots — inactivated vaccines and diarrhea, though this is more (containing killed virus) that are given common in children than adults. with a needle. *It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will  Nasal-spray flu vaccine — a vaccine made with live, have a fever. weakened flu viruses that is given as a nasal spray

How flu spreads (sometimes called LAIV for “Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine”). The viruses in the nasal spray Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly vaccine do not cause the flu. LAIV is approved for by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or use in healthy people 2-49 years of age who are not talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of pregnant. people who are nearby. Less often, a person might also About two weeks after vaccination, antibodies get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus develop that protect against influenza virus infection. on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes, or possibly their nose. When to get vaccinated against seasonal flu

Period of contagiousness Yearly flu vaccination should begin in September, or as soon as vaccine is available, and continue throughout You may be able to pass on the flu to someone else the flu season which can last as late as May. This is before you know you are sick, as well as while you are because the timing and duration of flu seasons vary. sick. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others While flu season can begin as early as October, most of beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to the time seasonal flu activity peaks in January, February, five to seven days after becoming sick. Some people, or later. especially young children and people with weakened immune systems, might be able to infect others for an Who should get vaccinated? even longer time. Everyone six months of age and older should get a

How serious is the flu? flu vaccine each year. This recommendation has been in place since February 24, 2010, when CDC’s Advisory Flu is unpredictable and how severe it is can vary Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted for widely from one season to the next depending on many “universal” flu vaccination in the U.S. to expand things, including: protection against the flu to more people. While  what flu viruses are spreading everyone should get a flu vaccine each flu season, it’s  how much flu vaccine is available especially important that certain people get vaccinated  when vaccine is available either because they are at high risk of having serious flu-  how many people get vaccinated related complications or because they live with or care  how well the flu vaccine is matched to flu viruses for people at high risk for developing flu-related that are causing illness. complications. Nurse continued on next page 5 Nurse continued Happy Holidays from SPICE Who should not be vaccinated against seasonal flu? by Steve Parker, SPICE Chair

[email protected] Some people should not be vaccinated without first consulting a physician. They include: The holidays are such an exciting time of  people who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs year, and they are approaching fast! We are  people who have had a severe reaction to an influenza so lucky that Santa will be visiting us in the vaccination in the past cafeteria again this year! Make sure to mark  children younger than six months of age (influenza vaccine is your calendars, because the annual Cookies not approved for use in this age group) and Milk with Santa is on Saturday,  people who have a moderate or severe illness with a fever December 1. This is should wait to get vaccinated until their symptoms lessen such a fun event that you  people with a history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (a severe won’t want to miss it. paralytic illness, also called GBS). We will have cookie If you have questions about whether you should get a flu decorating and other fun vaccine, consult your health care provider. activities planned while you wait to see Santa. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Be sure to bring your camera for that treasured picture of your little one(s) visiting Hunter Safety Class Begins in December Santa. This event is FREE. by Greg Fischer The First Annual Free Family Movie night was a huge success. Over 140 The first class of Hunter Safety will be on December 10 from students, family, and friends watched The 6:00-9:00 p.m. in the LMC (school library). Cost is $10 and you Lorax in the comfort of the school cafeteria. do not need to pre-register. Students will be given all materials The kids especially enjoyed setting out needed for the class on the first night. They will be required to do blankets and pillows to watch the show. all the book work, reviews, and tests on the Internet as assigned Thanks to all who helped organize and run each week. A demonstration will be given the first night on how that event. to log on to the Internet and complete the book work. A SPICE tries its best to thank all of our PARENT OR GUARDIAN MUST ATTEND THE FIRST volunteers throughout the year, but I just NIGHT WITH THE STUDENT. Of course, parents are want to extend an extra thank-you to all the encouraged to attend all classes with their child, and adult parents, teachers, and community members students are also welcome to sign up for the class. who support our organization. We have a The second class will be held on January 7 at 6:00 p.m. The dedicated group of volunteers attending most reason for starting on December 10 is so the students can get most of our meetings, but we also have a larger of the Internet work done over the Christmas break. The group of volunteers who help out with our remaining classes will be held January 14 and 21. The field test many events through the year. Without your day will probably be January 26. More help and support, there would be no SPICE. details on the field test will be discussed. We would love to see some new faces at The written test will be on January 28. We our meetings. Being a part of an realize there will be scheduling conflicts organization like SPICE can be a rewarding with these class times, and we are open to experience when you see the difference you suggestions and will try to accommodate can make in your school and its students. It any conflicts. We will discuss these is also a great way to meet other parents and options at the first class. teachers. New members bring a different After the written test is done for Hunter Safety on January 28, perspective and fresh ideas to our group and we will start a two-week Bowhunter Safety course for those help to carry on our efforts into the future. students who wish to take it. Bowhunter Safety is not required in Our next meeting is scheduled for Wisconsin, but many western states require Bowhunter Safety December 12 at 6:15 p.m. at the River Rail. certification. Only the students who took part in the Shiocton Please feel free to join us. Among other Hunter Safety course can take our Bowhunter Safety course. business, we will be discussing the planning If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Greg of upcoming events such as Funset Fischer at (920) 810-8204. You may also contact Mike Young at Boulevard, the Spring Book Fair, and a (920) 986-3614. possible late winter/early spring Movie Again, it is mandatory that a parent or guardian attend the first Night. class, and they are strongly encouraged to attend all classes. Have a wonderful and safe holiday season! 6 ’Twas The Days Before ChrisTmas ’Twas the days before Christmas, and all through the school, Walk, Vincent! Walk, Tanner! Walk, Tyler and Sammy! The teachers were trying to just keep their cool. Sit, Jamie! Sit, Laura! Sit, Tara and Tammy! The hallways were hung with Christmas art, To your desks in the room! To your spots in the line! (Some made in November to get a head start). Now walk to them! Walk to them! No running this time!

The children were bouncing off ceilings and walls, So straight to their places the children all went, And seemed to forget how to walk in the halls. With fear of detention, where could they be sent? When out of the teachers’ lounge with “holiday shirts” With manuals of lessons cradled in arms, and “jingle bell jewels” The teachers began to use all of their charms. The teachers looked festive enforcing the rules. But the lessons presented all fell on deaf ears. When all of a sudden there came such a clatter, The children were thinking of Santa’s reindeer! The principal came in to see what was the matter. With a toss of their hands they put manuals aside, The teachers were hiding and trying to refuel, Went straight to the cupboards where videos hide. On coffee and cookies and treats from the Yule. And laying their finger on the TV remote, When what to their wondering ears do they hear, They sat back to write their last Christmas note. But the ringing of school bells, it’s the children they fear! But you could hear them exclaim at the end of the day, More rapid than reindeer the little ones came, Have a wonderful, happy, And the teachers all shouted and called them by name: and L-O-O-O-O-O-N-G Holiday!

Battle of the Books Gifted and Talented Battle of the Books is an annual statewide reading competition. Students are challenged to Nicole Hess (grades 1-3) 986-3351 ext. 717 individually read a wide genre variety of 20 books or [email protected] by February, 2013. They then participate in a Lindsay Pribek (grades 4-12) 986-3351 ext. 795 schoolwide Battle of the Books by answering or [email protected] questions pertaining to the 20 books they have read. Four finalists are chosen to compete in the Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl statewide online competition in February, 2013. Great job to all our participants this fall! We Groups have been established and have been were excited to have four teams compete in the meeting with their designated teachers. During Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl. The test consists of 100 these meetings, students continue in their reading multiple-choice questions. Questions cover math, adventures, as well as acclimate themselves with an geography, government, sports, spelling, science, online discussion board. Edmodo has been a literature, English, history, general information, and just plain valuable tool and resource for students to discuss fun trivia. Students did an awesome job listening to each other elements of the 20 books they are required to read. and collaborating on their final answers! The statewide If your child is involved, please encourage him/her competition results were as follows: to continue reading and respond to their peers on  5th grade team ranked 25th out of 32 teams Edmodo. If you have any questions, please contact  6th grade team ranked 13th out of 20 teams Mrs. Hess or Ms. Pribek.  7th grade team ranked 29th out of 33 teams  8th grade team ranked 36th out of 39 teams College Day for Kids – Stevens Point Shiocton has the opportunity to send six 6th This month, the G/T teachers graders to participate in College Day for Kids at have shared with your child/ren’s UW-Stevens Point on Friday, April 19. While teachers (grades 3-8) the spelling there, the students will be engaged in three words for this year’s competition. The top two winners from different interactive, academic classes that they will each classroom (grades 3-8) will compete during the schoolwide have selected. Students are nominated by their Spelling Bee on January 21, 2013. The school’s best speller will teachers for this program and should be able to then have the opportunity to continue the contest through the benefit from stimulating, fast-paced classes. New regional, state, and national levels. As parents or guardians, help this year: UW-Stevens Point College Day your child to become our best Bee speller. If you would like a has asked for schools to focus on the top 10% of copy of the word list, please contact your child’s teacher or the the 6th grade class. gifted and talented teachers. 7 Grade 2

Gifted/ Clay coil pottery — Talented The students will be glazing these Art 3D pieces. They looked so beautiful Grade 6 after the first (below) firing, we had Architecture! Paige to share. Scott and Allison Erickson at work. Media: clay slab

Grade 1

Tea for Two! Students created detailed stacked tea cups.

Artists are Sydney Ritchie (left) and Alexis Widmann (right).

Media: tempera paint and oil pastels

Grade 7 These creative sculptors made a human 3D form out of clay. I can’t say enough about this group of artists; they are motivated and have great self-discipline! They tackled this challenging lesson on the clay cuffman! Lisa Beecher 8

Principal’s Report

As you move through this holiday season, my hope middle and high school bands. The students have been for you is that you’ll find time to enjoy the little things in working hard on the musical selections, and I look life that make the holidays special. May you focus on forward to hearing them perform. things that truly matter — friends and family. The On December 5 our early release time will focus on Student Council is again sponsoring their annual Food aligning our curriculum to the Common Core Standards and Toy Drive. They have been collecting along with the new state Teacher Effectiveness nonperishable food items, toys, and money Evaluation System. The Effectiveness Evaluation System for several weeks, and the support they have is designed to help implement a professional evaluation received thus far from the community has system for teachers, educational specialists, leaders, and been outstanding. During the month of administrators. The system focuses on both the process November, staff members helped out as and product of high quality instruction, which includes: well. Staff members have been able to pay (1) standards of effective practice, and (2) student $1 a day to wear jeans to work. This has helped Student achievement. Council raise an extra $600. We are hoping that these The winter athletic seasons are well underway and off extra efforts will allow everyone to have a happy holiday to good starts. If you have time, come out and take in a season. Haley Ehrle, Caitlin Majerus, and Kaylah boys or girls basketball game or a wrestling match. The Schuette are co-chairs of the Food and Toy Drive and dance team also performs at many events so you get an have done an excellent job of organizing the various extra bang for your buck. It is a great way to spend an projects. I am sure that the families that receive the food evening and show your support for our athletes. and toys appreciate the support and help during this During this busy time of year, take time and enjoy the holiday season. season and all it has to bring. The Winter Band and Choir Concert will be held on December 10 at 7:00 p.m. Mrs. Anderson directs the Happy Holidays, middle and high school choirs, and Mr. Yenor directs the Kelly Zeinert, Principal

High School Counselor Corner Shiocton’s 2012-13 by Rhonda Uelmen DAR Representative Seniors Haley Ehrle has been selected as Shiocton’s 2012-13 This is another reminder that college applications DAR Representative. DAR stands for Daughters of the should be turned in as soon as possible. Many American Revolution. schools start to fill up around this time. This is also The recipient of this the time that college scholarship deadlines are honor is selected by the coming up. Please check on your college website to Shiocton High School confirm when those applications are due. staff. A DAR Speaking of scholarships, winter break is a great representative must time to get started and complete some of our local possess four qualities of a scholarship applications. good citizen: dependability, service, Juniors leadership, and

Remember to set up your junior meeting with me patriotism. Haley has and invite your parents. I encourage your parents to proven that she does attend for another set of ears. possess those qualities and will represent Have a great holiday season and don’t forget to Shiocton Schools well. visit colleges when you can! Congratulations, Haley! 9

Art Club News by Bill Greider

The High School Art Club recently started a new mural in Mr. Wismer’s computer room. We used a document camera to transfer the image onto the wall and have begun painting the landscape. This should be a relatively short project compared to our huge timeline mural that we finished last year after more than nine years of work. We should be able to finish this new mural by Easter. Art Club also completed a tour on October 25 of the Appleton Museum (The Castle) to see the Leonardo da Vinci Exhibition titled Machines in Motion. This show featured 40 mechanical devices that were built based on design ideas out of da Vinci’s notebooks. We also toured Coventry Glass Studio and Gallery, where Linda Muldune gave an artist’s perspective on how glass artists make their living repairing damaged stained glass windows and creating their own designs. Early in October, the art club held their annual bake sale and raised $132 for the art scholarship fund. This bake sale is always held during the first Parent/Teacher Conferences. Art Club sponsored an art trip for high school students to the Milwaukee Art Museum in November. Current high school art students, art club members, and high school SILA students were eligible for this trip. This trip featured The Treasures of Kenwood House (from London) featuring portraits and landscape paintings by Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Gainsborough, Reynolds, and other artists from the 17th and 18th centuries. This year’s club members include Cody Stockwell, Jamie Van Patten, Hayley Vandenboom, Samantha Bain, Laney Schultz, Natalie Guyette, Brent Traxler, Brett Vander Wielen, Lauren Vanden Heuvel, Hayley Mastey, Austen Nollenberg, Ekko Haberman, and Jesse Cain.

Varsity Volleyball Business Students Invent New Products by Roberta Ligocki Conference Awards Students in my Introduction to Johanna Chizek: 2nd Team All-Conference Business class learned about all Jonalee Elliott: Honorable Mention the facets of inventing and Holly Pingel: Honorable Mention marketing a product by participating in a snack Erin Schroth: Honorable Mention convention. They invented a unique snack and prepared a booth Team Awards to market their snack to Johanna Chizek: Team Leader Award prospective customers. Ashley Van Den Bosch: Most Improved Award At left, Trent Moder presents his “South Side Salsa” to Holly Pingel: MVP Award Marketing I student Tommy Irem Yenisolak: Shiocton Chief Award Gonzales. 10 Attention, Juniors and Seniors Wisconsin Fall Leadership Conference Attend an Experience Day Future Business Leaders of America

at Empire Beauty Schools On November 12 and 13 the Shiocton FBLA Chapter attended the Wisconsin Fall Leadership Conference in December 4 or December 5 Oconomowoc. The students participated in many different workshops and went on tours of local businesses, as well as 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. learned from a professional speaker on leadership. The 2575 West Mason Street 525 North Westhill Blvd. workshops were led by local business leaders and some of the Green Bay, WI 54304 Appleton, WI 54914 state FBLA officers. Students learned about the many different events they can compete in at upcoming regional, This event is designed to provide state, and national events. high school juniors and seniors with a day of discovery into the wide variety of in-demand careers in the beauty industry, and an opportunity to experience Empire’s state-of-the-art education and unique school culture, all in a dynamic, real-world setting. If you would like to bring a friend, please let us know when you RSVP! Permission forms are mandatory for attendance and are available in pupil services. Please RSVP to Casey Smith, Career Development Specialist, at (920) 883-8466.

High School Art Display at Shiocton Public Library by Bill Greider

The Shiocton Public Library and the high school art program have teamed up to display student art work. The first display was set up November 5 and will be replaced in one month. The current show includes six stick forms that were made by Art 2 students last spring. Students included Jordan Collar, Austin Riehl, Kobi Langenhuizen, Garrett Beyer, and Jesse Cain. The sculpture forms were based on the work of contemporary sculptor Debra Butterfield, who uses sticks and other materials to create sculptures of horses. Be sure to see this display and the other exhibitions coming in the next few months. 11

School Board Meeting Summaries

November 5, 2012 November 19, 2012

Attendance: Board members — David Gomm, Attendance: Board members — David Gomm, Raymond Gomm, Mary Hoffman, Bradley Ritchie, Raymond Gomm, Mary Hoffman, Bradley Ritchie, Gregory Schoettler, Melissa Van Dyke, Allen Warner. Gregory Schoettler, Melissa Van Dyke, Allen Warner. Others — Chris VanderHeyden; Kim Griesbach; Kelly Others — Chris VanderHeyden; Kim Griesbach; Steve, Zeinert; Denise Guex; Keith Skenandore; Deb Danke; Josh, and Jodi Parker; Scott, Tracey Coleman and Tina David, Nancy, and Cole Wilcox; Paula and Kellyn Van Ubl; Brooke, Brandon, and Dennis Rohloff; Lisa, Josh, Straten; Michelle and Carley Kriewaldt; Kelly and Nikki and Matthew Wilkinson; Julie Heindl; Cassidy and Scott Harvath; Misty and Jadyn Manske; Nansi Ramirez; Defferding; Denelle Daniels; Penny Cummings; Jessica Laurie McNichols; Sarah Ver Voort; Caitlin Majerus; Doherty; Dylan Van Camp; Logan Heindl; Sofiya Cruz; and Beth Bloedorn. Hannah Stedjee; Claudia Fuss; Anne Louis; and Beth Bloedorn. Presentations:  Students reported on their attendance at Camp Presentations: U-Nah-Li-Ya.  SILA staff presented on “Authentic Learning.”  Deb Danke, Food Service Director, gave an update on  LEGO League. the food service department. In other discussion: The board voted to:  Memorial/Dedication policy – first reading.  Set the General Fund expenditures for 2012-13 at  Security Systems update – cameras and exterior door $8,699,265 and levy upon the taxable property of the entrances. School District of Shiocton the sum of $2,460,776 for  Visioning Process update. the purpose of defraying the costs of operation and Board report: maintenance of the public schools; $81,635 for the  Ray Gomm reported on CESA #6. purpose of funding non-referendum debt; $619,000 for debt-service retirement; and $5,000 for Administration reports: Community Service fund for a Total Levy of  Mrs. Griesbach: WKCE finalization of testing cycle $3,166,411. and ACCESS testing information.  Approve the 2013 66:0301 Shared Services  Mr. VanderHeyden: December 5 Staff Development Agreement. and calendar items.

In other discussion: Closed session: To discuss superintendent evaluation and  Town Hall Meeting follow-up. administrative contracts.  Visioning Process update.  Correspondence with the Village of Shiocton regarding garbage pick-up and payment for services.  Memorial Policy review.  School board election information.

Student report:  Caitlin Majerus reported on Student Council.

Administration reports:  Mrs. Griesbach: WKCE and PALS testing updates and STAR training.  Mrs. Zeinert: Veterans Day Program/Breakfast, end of the first quarter, and Jeans for Charity event.  Mrs. Guex: Update from the business office.  Mr. VanderHeyden: Effective Educator progress and Student Learning Objectives.

Closed session: To discuss Cash in Lieu Retirement Benefit. 12

December Calendar of Events

1 Sat HS Wrestling at Oconto — 8:45 am SPICE presents Cookies and Milk with Santa in the cafeteria — 9:30 am-12:00 noon C Team/JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at Brillion — 6:00/7:30 pm 3 Mon School Board meeting in the LMC — 6:30 pm 4 Tue MS Boys Basketball at home vs. Wittenberg-Birnamwood — 4:00 pm JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at Pacelli — 6:00/7:30 pm JV/Varsity Girls Basketball at home vs. Reedsville — 6:00/7:30 pm 5 Wed Early release for Staff Development — 12:10 pm dismissal 6 Thu MS Boys Basketball at Bonduel — 4:00 pm K4 Holiday Activity Night in the cafeteria —5:00-7:00 pm HS Wrestling at Tri-County — 7:00 pm Cookies and Milk with Santa 7 Fri C Team/JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at Bonduel — 6:00/7:30 pm December 1 JV/Varsity Girls Basketball at home vs. Bonduel — 6:00/7:30 pm 8 Sat HS Wrestling Tournament at Brillion — 8:30 am 10 Mon The Link — Deadline for submitting articles for the January issue Band/choir chili fundraiser in the cafeteria — 4:00-6:30 pm Hunter Safety class begins in the LMC (library) — 6:00 pm Winter Concert in the HS gym featuring all bands and choirs — 7:00 pm 11 Tue MS Boys Basketball at home vs. Black Creek — 4:00 pm C Team/JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at home vs. Iola-Scandinavia — 6:00/7:30 pm JV/Varsity Girls Basketball at Iola-Scandinavia — 6:00/7:30 pm 12 Wed SPICE meeting at the River Rail — 6:15 pm 12/13 W/Th Youth Wrestling clinic in the cafeteria — 5:30-7:00 pm 13 Thu K5 Christmas Program in the cafeteria — 1:30 pm HS Wrestling at home vs. Rosholt — 7:00 pm 14 Fri Last day for donations to the Food and Toy Drive C Team/JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at Wittenberg-Birnamwood — 6:00/7:30 pm JV/Varsity Girls Basketball at home vs. Wittenberg-Birnamwood — 6:00/7:30 pm Band performs Christmas half-time show 15 Sat HS Wrestling Tournament at Beaver Dam — 8:00 am 17 Mon C Team/JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at home vs. St. Mary Central — 6:00/7:30 pm School Board meeting in the LMC — 6:30 pm 18 Tue MS Boys Basketball at Black Creek — 4:00 pm JV/Varsity Girls Basketball at home vs. Gibraltar — 6:00/7:30 pm 19 Wed MS band and choir field trip to Rennes Retirement Community in Appleton — 10:30 am-2:00 pm 20 Thu Grades 1-3 Holiday Program in the elementary gym — 12:45 pm Grades 4-5 Holiday Program in the elementary gym — 2:00 pm MS Boys Basketball at home vs. Marion — 4:00 pm JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at Kewaunee — 6:00/7:30 pm 24-1/1 NO SCHOOL — Winter break 27 Thu C Team/JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at home vs. Gibraltar — 6:00/7:30 pm 28 Fri JV/Varsity Girls Basketball at Sturgeon Bay — 1:30/3:00 pm

Coming Up in January

1 Market Day orders due in the elementary or high school office 2 School resumes Deadline for School Board candidate filing 4 C team/JV/Varsity Boys Basketball at home vs. Amherst JV/Varsity Girls Basketball at Amherst 5 HS Wrestling Tournament at Cedar Grove-Belgium 7 Hunter Safety class 9 Market Day pick-up 22 End of the first semester — 12:10 pm dismissal 13

Changes for Milk Cap Collection

Attention Parents: Thank you for all of your contributions of milk caps over the years to help support education and student learning! We have raised a great amount of funds from doing so. Some milk companies have discontinued their programs. Currently, the only milk company we are collecting from will be labeled “KIDS CAPS & CASH” on the top of the cap. Thank you for your support!

Breakfast served daily with a variety of cold cereal, milk, 100% juice, toast, and fruit. Cold sandwiches available each day as an alternative entrée for lunch. Fresh fruit and vegetables are offered daily. Whole grain white bread and buns are offered. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 3 Grab-n-Go salad or 4 Grab-n-Go salad 5 Hot dog on a bun, 6 Pizza, lettuce 7 Grab-n-Go salad pizzaroni, green or homemade French fries, fresh salad with dressings, or chicken fajitas, beans, Mandarin chicken noodle vegetables, apple pears, milk shredded cheese, oranges, bread, milk soup, peanut butter juice, milk sour cream, mixed and jelly uncrustable vegetables, peaches, sandwich, carrots, milk applesauce, milk 10 Mini corn dogs, 11 French toast 12 Grab-n-Go salad 13 Cheeseburger on 14 Grab-n-Go salad seasoned rice, lettuce sticks, sausage, hash or soft shell tacos a bun, French fries, or tomato soup, salad, fruit cocktail, browns, fresh fruit, with meat, shredded baked beans, grilled cheese milk orange juice, milk lettuce, shredded Mandarin oranges, sandwich, peas, cheese, sour cream, milk strawberry cup, milk whole kernel corn, pineapple, milk 17 Chicken nuggets, 18 Nachos with 19 Spaghetti with 20 Ham, turkey, 21 Mozzarella pizza French fries, green meat and cheese, meat sauce, lettuce cheese sub, pretzels, dippers, marinara beans, pears, milk sour cream, carrots, salad, peaches, fresh vegetables, sauce, peaches, pineapple, milk garlic bread, milk apple juice, peas, milk Christmas cookie, milk

Lunch prices: Elementary — $1.95 per day, $9.75 per week, $29.25 for December Middle/High School — $2.25 per day, $11.25 per week, $33.75 for December

Parents/Guardians — Please remember, money is needed in the lunch account before purchases are made. If your account has a negative $20 balance, please send money or a cold lunch. Your child may not be allowed to eat hot lunch. No a la carte purchases will be allowed.

14 Elementary/Middle School News

I hope you and your family were able to On Wednesday, December 19, middle school musicians enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving! May you will travel to Rennes Health Care Center in Appleton to take time to count your many blessings visit with residents and spread some cheer. each and every day. The Elementary Holiday Program is coming up on I am happy to report that the elementary and middle Thursday, December 20, in the elementary gym. Grades school students have completed all of the WKCE testing 1-3 will perform at 12:45 p.m. and grades 4-5 will for the 2012-13 school year. I thank the students for perform at 2:00 p.m. doing their personal best each and every day. We should receive the results sometime in late winter. When we do, Cold Weather Reminders we will pass the information on to you. It’s that time of year again! Please make

Thanks to everyone who was able to join sure your child has the proper winter us for the Veterans Day Program in gear to wear to school (hat/ear muffs, November. Students in grades 1-12 mittens, boots, snow pants). The participated in the program to honor veterans, past and children do go outside for recess unless present. The band and choir students, as well as the third the temperature is below zero. Middle school students grade students, did a wonderful job! Great job to also go outside during their lunch/recreation time. Please everyone involved! help monitor that your child is dressing appropriately for winter. Thank you!  Congratulations to the Shiocton LEGO League team, the LEGO Bolts, which won the Programming Award and Food and Toy Drive was nominated for the Robot Design Award at the Oshkosh Regional LEGO League competition in As you know, the Student Council Food and Toy November. Out of a field of 17 teams, the LEGO Bolts Drive is going on right now. High school Student finished in the top five for the Robot Game (just three Council members coordinate this drive each year to points out of second place). They finished in the top four help needy families within our community. Please in the overall competition for the day and have again help us in our final weeks of the drive! Any new or qualified for the state competition in December! LEGO gently used items, as well as canned goods, will be Bolt team members include Coleman Ubl, Tina Ubl, greatly appreciated. As you donate, please keep in Hailey Cummings, Joshua Parker, Matthew Wilkinson, mind that we need items for children of all ages Joshua Wilkinson, Maddie Daniels, Brandon Rohloff, (from infants to ages 17-18). Shiocton is filled with Logan Heindl, and Dylan Van Camp. Congratulations incredible community members who come through and best of luck at the December competition! year after year. Thank you so very much, in advance, for your generosity!

December Events and Activities

Staff, students, and parents are working very hard to During this season, may we all take time to count our prepare for all of the events and special activities that are blessings, appreciate all of the special people in our lives, coming up during the month of December. Here are a and help those who are less fortunate. Have a safe, few events that you may wish to put on your calendar: healthy, and joyous season.

Cookies and Milk with Santa, sponsored by SPICE, is Sincerely, coming up on Saturday, December 1, from 9:30 a.m. – Mrs. Kim Griesbach  noon in the cafeteria. Elementary/Middle School Principal

The Winter Music Concert, featuring band Dates to Remember students (grades 5-12) and choir students Sat., Dec. 1 Cookies and Milk with Santa – 9:30 a.m.- (grades 6-12), will take place on Monday, noon December 10, at 7:00 p.m. in the high Wed., Dec. 5 12:10 p.m. Early Release school gym. A chili dinner will be held Mon., Dec. 10 Winter Music Concert – 7:00 p.m. from 4:00-6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria prior to the concert. Thurs., Dec. 13 Midquarter for Second Quarter K5 Christmas Program – 1:30 p.m. The K5 Christmas Program will take place on Thursday, Thurs., Dec. 20 Elementary Holiday Program in elem. gym December 13, at 1:30 p.m., in the cafeteria. Grades 1-3 at 12:45 p.m. Grades 4-5 at 2:00 p.m.

15 Fun Fall Projects in Early Childhood

The Early Childhood class began the month of November by jumping into autumn. Students learned about the fall season and discussed the changes they see outside. They had fun pretending to be trees and letting their leaves fall. They also made a fall tree using their handprints to make various colored leaves all over their tree. Students worked diligently on their fine motor control, sequencing, and counting skills by making a fall necklace that included leaves, colored pasta, rings, and beads. In addition to leaves, owls were flying around everywhere in the Early Childhood classroom. Students learned about animals that are awake at night. They practiced their fine motor and shape recognition skills by cutting shapes to assemble a paper bag owl. They also got their hands dirty making a handprint owl. We hope you had a chance to check out our fall display. The week of Thanksgiving, we focused on turkeys and being thankful. Students practiced color recognition skills by painting a handprint turkey. They also practiced size seriating and following verbal directions by creating a circle popsicle stick turkey (pictured at right). The students’ favorite part of the week was making turkey cookies – yummy!! We look forward to December with themes which include stars, trees, and reindeer. We also plan to run as fast as we can to catch the gingerbread man. From our classroom to your house ~ HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

K4 Celebrates Thanksgiving

The K4 students have had a busy month. They learned about the Pilgrims and the Native Americans and about the first Thanksgiving. Did you know that there were more Native Americans at the first Thanksgiving than Pilgrims? Did you know that the first Thanksgiving lasted for three days? Did you know that there were no pumpkin pies at the first Thanksgiving? They had pumpkin stew. These are some facts that the K4 students learned. The children made paper teepees for us to use as centerpieces at our Thanksgiving feast. They also made their own costumes for the feast. The girls dressed up as Pilgrims and the boys dressed up as Native Americans. We then had a traditional Thanksgiving feast in our classroom. It was a wonderful experience for everyone. We also worked on our prairie books. The K4 animal is the bison; the K4 plant is Golden Alexander; and the K4 tree is the Colorado Blue Spruce. Completing our prairie books tied in very well with our lessons on the first Thanksgiving. The children are looking forward to winter and hopefully some snow to go along with it!!

16 Holiday Spirit in K5 First Graders Prepare for the Gingerbread Man The holidays are flying by — Halloween, Wow! November has come and gone already. Thanksgiving, and before We were so busy in first grade that the month long Christmas. The school flew by. We had many discussions on the year is in full swing. The meaning of Thanksgiving and the first children did an awesome job Thanksgiving. We also created projects centered with their turkey homework around the Thanksgiving theme. projects. Check out the Mrs. Bellin’s and Mrs. Behnke’s students have pictures! Don’t forget to been busy learning about animals in science class. stop by and see our K5 The students can tell you all about living things, angels hanging out on the non-living things, and what living things need to hallway bulletin board. survive. They can also talk your ear off about The mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish, and kindergartners insects. The students always enjoy learning about will be getting animals. They take great pride in their learning. ready and Students in Mrs. Bellin’s class displayed their working hard knowledge by creating an animal, its shelter, and for their K5 food. The projects are awesome. Thank you for Christmas helping your child out with this project. Program. They This brings us to December. We have lots of will show off fun and exciting activities planned for this month. their wonderful One favorite will surely be our gingerbread man musical talent unit. Besides reading several versions of this old on Thursday, tale, we will be using gingerbread men to learn December 13, about other states as well. We will be sending out at 1:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. Along with our program a gingerbread man to a friend or relative in a preparation, the students will be creating many holiday projects. different state in the hope of hearing back from We will also continue to work on the themes Family Ties and them. We are excited to see who we will hear Animal Families. back from and what we can learn from them. No We will continue to review the letters and letter sounds we gingerbread unit would have covered and will be introducing the letters Ll, Hh, and Ee. be complete without We have started blending the letter sounds together to create and the actual making and read words, using the letters we have already learned: Mm, Ss, baking of gingerbread Rr, Tt, Pp, Cc, Aa, Nn, Dd, Gg, Ff, and Ii. Have your child men cookies! Even practice making words by blending the letter sounds together. At though we tell the school the children will be using the sight words we have learned cooks not to peek at the plus our new words this month — it, are, for, me, is, here, you, cookies when they’re have, in, big, and no — to build sentences. The children have baking, they always been introduced to the sh and th diagraphs. Please continue to forget, and a few gingerbread men run away. study the sight word cards with your child. We have also worked We’ll have to be extra careful this year.  on blending letter sounds together (-am, -at, -ap), and we will Our first graders are busy in music class continue with these and add -it, -ig, and -ip this month. We are preparing for their holiday program with Mrs. also working on developing the children’s writing skills. Stellmacher. We hope you will be able to join us Encourage them to sound out words and write the sounds that on December 20 at 12:45 p.m. in the elementary they hear. They may surprise you! gym to hear our students present their holiday In math this month we will continue working on numbers 0 to musical gifts. 10. We will be introducing geometry and fractions. The As we enter the hustle and bustle of the children will learn to identify, sort, and classify solid figures and holiday season, sometimes the routines of plane shapes. We will also be talking about symmetrical shapes homework get set aside. Remember that the more and lines of symmetry. The children will be introduced to Touch your first grader reads, the better reader he/she Counting as we begin working on addition and subtraction skills. will become. Please try to keep your nightly Parents of K5 students, don’t forget to help your child learn routine of reading and practicing spelling intact. their phone number, address, birth date, and how to tie their Thank you for continuing to be an active shoes. We will be assessing all these skills in January. participant in your child’s education. Happy Holidays to you and your family! 17 Grade 1 Art So Much to Do in Grade 2!

Warm Fish! Media: Tempera paint December brings the anticipation of snowy weather and holiday Top: Kira Schwaller celebrations! To occupy the second graders until the BIG event, we plan to Middle: Ava Lorenz keep them very busy by continuing to work on D.L.R., reading skills, Bottom: Created by Claire Collar Rocket Math, Bucket-filling, math skills, and so much more. The students are progressing in their ability to find common mistakes in writing in order to make sentences grammatically correct in conversation and writing. We continue to work on our reading skills by making connections and predicting. Creating connections and making predictions help build comprehension, so that we can take away all of the great parts of a story. There is so much more to a book than the words on the page! Don’t forget to remind your second grader to choose a “Good Fit” book. These selections build a reader’s confidence as well as allow them to build fluency, accuracy, expression, and comprehension. Happy reading! Our second graders are continuing to be fantastic Bucket Fillers! We are also working on building character skills. Good characters are honest, responsible, trustworthy, cooperative, respectful, and so much more. We make sure to recognize when a student in our class has made appropriate choices. We have also had some practice in identifying those situations when a self-correction in behavior is needed. We discuss what we can do next time in order to be safe, responsible, and respectful!  Many second graders are beginning to soar through subtraction Rocket Math skills. Their confidence has built them up and they are eager for the quick 1-minute check each day. It is exciting to hear the “buzz” through second grade about which letter each student is working on. At this point, students should be getting away from touch counting, and memorizing the facts. The more practice they put into memorizing math facts, the quicker they will blast off! Lastly, with the end of November, we can officially say goodbye to warm temperatures. Please make sure that your child is dressed for the weather conditions on a daily basis. Wisconsin weather can be so unpredictable, so the best plan is to be prepared for each school day by sending all necessary items for cold weather as soon as they are needed. Each day, please provide your child with a warm coat, a cozy hat, and when the snow arrives – a few pairs of gloves, boots, and snow pants. Thanks for all of the help, guidance, and support that you provide to your child! Happy Holidays from grade 2!

At right: Van Gogh Sunflowers by second grade artist Abbie Fischer.

Sign Up for Youth Wrestling by Kristi Piechocki

It is not too late to sign up for youth wrestling. We are still taking registrations. The cost for youth wrestling is $35, and includes a T- shirt and fun night. We are also offering a clinic for those who have previously wrestled. The cost of the clinic is $15. Please contact Robin Riehl at 984-3461 for further details. Wrestling will start after holiday break, but the clinic begins Wednesday, December 12. 18 Counselor’s Corner Grade 3 – Working on Time by Angela Hammill, K5-7 Counselor and on to Multiplication (920) 986-3351 ext. 711 or [email protected] As November came and went, so Greetings from the elementary/middle school counseling did the Veterans Day assembly and office! December marks the focus of Communication and the new improved third grade portion Social Skills during your child’s classroom enrichment of the program. We commend all lessons. All classrooms discussed and brainstormed effective third graders for their GOLD-medal ways to handle conflict in a healthy way. efforts and presentation skills at this important tribute to veterans. They Middle School Communication — Facebook received many “salutes” from all who attended. Facebook is an ever-growing network for ALL ages throughout the world. We finished our unit on 3- and 4- A large majority of students communicate electronically via cell phones, digit addition and subtraction. Now chatting, instant messaging, and through Facebook. Facebook is as December begins, students will say a great networking tool and can be a lot of fun if it is used in a good-bye to telling time and hello to safe way. Students were educated on how to remain safe online multiplication in math. With the new and most importantly, on Facebook, so their identities do not curriculum concepts and standards, become public knowledge. The following are tips and third graders are to suggestions to students and parents regarding online safety: be fluent with 1. Make sure your Facebook account is “Private.” When created, all multiplication facts accounts are public and open for anyone to see. Ensure your child has up to 100. This can their account listed as “friends only” under the Account Settings Tab. be a big hurdle to 2. Ensure that passwords for logins are never shared (except with parents). jump, but with 3. Use a different login name or screen name for chatting, Facebook, and teamwork at school instant messaging, so that your identity cannot be tracked. and at home, we can accomplish this 4. Never accept a friend request from someone that you do not know. skill successfully. 5. Refrain from posting pictures that would reveal your identity or location. Even though we are done with our

telling time unit, this concept can Congratulations to Mrs. Ludick’s, Mrs. Krohlow’s, and Mrs. Madsen’s easily be reinforced at home. Before classrooms for winning our Red Ribbon Week challenge. Each classroom school, after school, at the supper will be granted a special treat for getting the word out about being drug-free! table, or at bedtime, have your child Below are Lisa Madsen’s third grade students with their theme, “Our future’s tell you what time it is. Then ask how so bright, we have to wear shades.”  you could say that time differently.

For example, 7:40 could be seven- A Special Thanks…. forty, forty minutes after seven, or  to 5th grade Student Council for donating your time to our Cookies and twenty minutes till eight. This is just Milk with Santa event and making our Red Ribbon Week bake sale a hit! a great skill to keep active in your  to the Holiday Fair Committee for donating a generous amount to our child’s mind, since they will use it Red Ribbon Week funding! forever. We are asking that you  to all families that are helping with our Food and Toy Drive. Your review these concepts with your third generosity at this time of year is greatly appreciated by all students and grader periodically throughout the members of our community! year, so they are not forgotten. As we continue into December, the ALL- school Food and Toy Drive will move forward. This is a great chance for school and community to come together and help families in need. Our busy month will also entail our Holiday Program, which will take

(continued on next page) 19 Grade 3 news (continued) Grade 4 Gets Ready for the Bees place in the elementary gym on Thursday, We are so proud of our fourth graders! They tackled the December 20, at 12:45 p.m. Hope to see you Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Exam (WKCE) with there!! Also, just a reminder that winter break positive attitudes and great thinking. begins after classes on Friday, December 21, and Grandparents Day was a huge success. We school will resume on Wednesday, January 2. celebrated it on November 30. We wrote essays Finally, the third grade team comparing ourselves to our grandparent, played a would like to say “THANK YOU” fun guessing game with items from our one more time to the Shiocton grandparents’ childhood, and most of all had fun Lions Club for donating personal with our favorite people! Thanks to all the student dictionaries to all of the wonderful grandparents who made this day special. third graders. These paperback Now with these things behind us, we can breathe a sigh of dictionaries will travel with the relief and start enjoying the winter weather. Remember, boots, students as they move on from grade to grade. hats, gloves/mittens, and snow pants are what all of the “cool” As always, if you have any questions or warm kids in Wisconsin wear for recess. concerns, please feel free to contact the third Fourth grade is the first year for students to participate in the grade team. Geography Bee that is held in January. Fourth grade teachers will be looking for their geography buffs throughout November and December. It is a good idea for students interested in geography to start studying maps, globes, and geography facts at home. The teachers will be choosing their contestants based on Elementary geography work done at school and at home and on classroom Holiday Programs observations. We will also be participating in the school Thursday, December 20, Spelling Bee in January, and it is not too early for in the elementary gym spelling-minded students to start preparing

1st to 3rd grade at 12:45 p.m. themselves for that. Students are chosen for the 4th and 5th grade at 2:00 p.m. Spelling Bee in the same way they are chosen for the Geography Bee. The teachers also run classroom spelling bees to help them decide who will go to the schoolwide competition.

Grade 5: Giving Thanks

November reminds us to be thankful. The fifth grade is thankful for the “book bags” donated by Wal-Mart and Piggly Wiggly of New London. The fifth graders have been “shopping” for “just right” books ever since. Each fifth grader has committed to reading 100 minutes or more each week beyond their school day. One way to share our reading with others is in writing, such as a book review. So two book reviews are featured on the next page. We are thankful for our ability to read and write.

(continued on next page) 20 Grade 5 news (continued)

The Shiocton Flyers Club also deserves a huge thank-you for allowing us to tour and explore the airport and several planes. A special thank-you goes out to Mr. Kobus for the extra donation that gave us bus service. Two students’ tickets were drawn for T-shirts provided by the club. As you can see, fifth grade continues to soar and we are thankful for all the special people in our lives who support our educational needs.

Grade 5 Book Reviews

My book is called Spine Tinglers: Tales Brian’s Winter was published in 1996. The author to Make You Shiver. The author is Bruce (Gary Paulsen) has created yet another engaging Coville. It was published in 1996 by adventure pulsing with determination. He is also a Scholastic Inc. There are 177 pages in this renowned writer that has gotten many awards for his book and 13 chapters. This book is a horror writing accomplishments. If you want to find more book because there are scary stories. Bruce about the background of this story, read Guts. Brian’s was born in central New York. His date of Winter is a continuation of Hatchet, but with the idea, birth is May 16, 1950. He now lives in “What if the transmitter didn’t work?” Now Brian has Syracuse, New York, with his wife to survive winter; how will he do it? The genre of this Katherine Coville, their youngest child, Adam, their three book is definitely a survival book (better than most). cats, Spike, Thunder, and Ozma, and a dog named Booger. Brian’s Winter is not a huge book because it only has My favorite chapter is called “Life with a Slob” by Gordon 133 pages. Van Gelder. In this chapter there are two brothers, Bob and In Brian’s Winter, Brian faces more Andy. They have a bunk bed in their room and they have problems that seem to just pile on top their own sides of the room. Andy’s side is always nice and of one another. As the book continues, neat, but Bob’s side is full of trash and junk. But Andy finds the problems and complications seem out the mess can talk and it tells Andy how much it hates Bob. to grow just like the piles of snow. At first Andy does not know what to think of the talking mess Snow/rainstorms last for days on end. but soon he forms a bond with it. Andy and the mess are It doesn’t stop snowing and pretty soon making a plan so Bob can learn to be nice and responsible. he finds out that the snow is so high I liked this book because there were a lot of stories that that snow gets in his shoes, which made my hair on the back of my neck stick up. I liked it also makes it so he can’t get firewood; no fire means death. because some stories are funny and some are serious and Will Brian survive or fail, with no return? scary. This book made me not want to put it down because it This book is extremely descriptive and I really got was so cool and interesting. If you like fairy tales and sweet, a mental image in my head. Now that I think about it, nice books, this is not for you. This book has some really there is nothing I disliked about this book. This book scary stories, like the chapter “The Sight of the Basilisk” by shares a few things about survival that I didn’t think Lois Tilton. The night I read that chapter I had a nightmare about, like exploding trees. Not only is this a great with the Basilisk chasing me in a tunnel! book to read, it also gives you information and an idea I think this book was just right for me, but I don’t know if about what it would be like stuck out in the someone who has a lot of unicorn posters in their room will wilderness. like this scary book. If I ever find a friend that likes books Brian’s Winter is a great book that I think everyone like this one, I will tell them about the book Spine Tinglers: would enjoy. It has lots of suspense and skill. It’s one Tales to Make You Shiver. After I read this book, I felt more of the best books I’ve read and that’s saying a lot. The confident that I will be able to read more scary stories. odds are not with Brian that he will survive; read to Ashley Ella Gorski find out. 21 Books with the Boys #6 by Tim Huebner, with guest review by Josh Parker

1607. That year is firmly cemented I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys into every American historian’s mind American History, historical fiction, or a good story. Any as the year of the first permanent reader wanting the true story of Jamestown could start English settlement in the New World with this book. at Jamestown. However, it is easy to forget that it wasn’t permanent by Josh Parker much. Sickness, diseases, starvation, Blood on the River by Elisa Carbone is a great book. and fighting with Native Americans This book is placed in Jamestown and London, England. are a constant threat to survival at The book is about a boy, Samuel Collier, and his life Jamestown. Basically, getting to and at Jamestown in 1607. Sam is an orphan the first decade at the Basic Facts about the Book who lives on the street. When he gets picked up by a colony resulted in a Author: Elisa Carbone minister, he is hired to be an apprentice to John Smith. 90% mortality rate. Title: Blood on the River; Once at Virginia, they set up Jamestown. Then they send Every spring ships Jamestown, 1607 John Smith to make alliances with the natives. After a brought settlers that Published by: Scholastic Printing while they send Samuel over to live with the natives for replaced the losses. Reading level: Middle school the winter. After Samuel returns, a new governor takes Page count: 237 The colony does not over the settlement and new colonists kill natives. The Available used or new on Amazon become stable until and in most public and school natives plan a massacre on Jamestown. The original almost 1620. The novel libraries colonists go and build a fort across the bay and live there Blood on the River by peacefully, keeping friendly relations with the natives. Elisa Carbone explains a great deal of this. The author I really liked the book. It told a lot about Jamestown tells the story of Samuel Collier, a young boy forced to and what it was like to live there. It also had action in it, come to the New World as an apprentice to John Smith. like the war between the settlers and the natives. The I enjoyed the book a great deal, largely because the author really looked in depth into Jamestown to make it as author successfully used historical fact to write historical real as possible. This was an amazing book. fiction. I feel any reader would get a true picture of the I recommend this book to people who like action, suffering and hardship the colonists at Jamestown labored strategy, and cool information in their books. There are through. The past is often viewed through rose-colored many skirmishes and small wars described. There is also glasses; this book takes off those glasses. I really value an planning to be able to keep good relations with the natives. author who tells it as it was, and Elisa Carbone does that. The book is very informative about life in early The past is interesting and can stand on its own merits Jamestown. I recommend this book to those people who without being clouded by fiction. like historical fiction or just a good book.

7th Grade Traveling Mini-Masterpiece Exhibition by Bill Greider

My 7th grade art students currently have a display of art traveling within our school. The show has been on display in the administration office window for several weeks. It will travel next to our school library and from there is scheduled to be on display at the Shiocton Public Library. Students selected a master artist’s work to make a mini-copy, approximately 5" by 7". They were taught how to use the “grid technique” to create accurate shapes and proportions. The finished products were attached to mini-easels, along with basic information about the artists and their work. Students pictured include Jewel Brunner, Evan Durham, Bryce Handrich, Trey Horton, Colton Kleiber, Luis Leon, Tabitha Morris, Josh Parker, Jaden Schneider, Dante Spencer, Kyle Stedjee, Quinn Vanden Heuvel, Trina Young, and Seleni Trinidad. 22 8th Grader Writes What I Would Tell America’s Founding Fathers Winning Essay by Johanna Funk

An eighth grader took a What do you love? It’s a hard take part. With a growing family, he chance and entered the question. Some would say fame, feared his legal practice might suffer. Patriot’s Pen writing contest riches, or power. However, most Nevertheless, Adams acted and sponsored by the VFW. The people would say their greatest love is assisted the movement, doing what he contest their home and family. What do you saw as the right choice. He spent years was open love the most? What is something or away from his family. to someone that you will never want to The founding fathers were not students leave? It means so much to you that it handed their title on a silver platter. in grades has become a part of you. The John Adams entered Harvard College 6-8. Her founding fathers gave that all up, for at age fifteen to study law. It took him entry was America. three years to even establish his sent in to George Washington loved his practice. That must have taken an area home, Mount Vernon, his wife, Martha immense perseverance. George VFW and Washington, his step-daughter Martha, Washington actually lost more battles received and step-son, John. He loved them as a than he won. However, he still first place in our area. normal husband and father would have completed his goal, to keep the This winning essay, printed loved them. In truth, the famous Continental Army together. For as at right, has been sent to the George Washington wanted to be a long as they were together, they would District 6 contest to be judged farmer. stand. Founding fathers were normal in Port Washington, Wisconsin. What did he do? He left what he people who made mistakes just like The top 46 national winners loved and what he wanted to do for you and me. Yet, we do not remember will receive at least $500. If more than eight years in order to build them for what they did wrong; we she progresses to the national our country: to be Commander-in- remember them for what they level, she has the chance to win Chief of the Continental Army during accomplished. $5000, plus an all-expense-paid the Revolutionary War, to become What made the founding fathers so trip to Washington, D.C., for President, and most of all to change special? They loved people and places her and a parent. America. He faced the atrocities of as much as we do. But they did She hopes you enjoy her war and army life. Life in the army something more than anyone else has entry as much as the judges was hard; they faced terrible cold, ever done. They gave up what they did. Read future issues to see unclean conditions, and the possibility dearly loved for future generations. I how far her essay will go! of death. would tell America’s founding fathers Good luck. John Adams married Abigail Smith thank you. Thank you for sacrificing and loved his five children. During the your family, time, and energy for the Stamp Act in 1765, he was reluctant to love of America.

MS Student Council Plans Holiday Activities by Rhonda Uelmen

The Middle School Student Council just wrapped up their first dance and dress-up day on November 16. The dress- up day revolved around neon colors and carried into the dance. We could say our future is so bright! On November 16, the Middle School Student Council officers attended a Region III Wisconsin Association of Student Councils meeting at the Paper Valley Hotel. They reported back to Council what they learned. We are planning on ringing bells for the Salvation Army at the Northland Mall on December 6. Please feel free to come out and listen to our lovely singing. In December our annual Penny Race will begin, to benefit the high school Council’s Food and Toy Drive. Please bring in all of your pennies to see which class will have the most. The race will run half of December, and the class with the most pennies will receive a class pizza party. One party will be awarded in the elementary school and one in the middle school. Our December class dress-up day will be on December 21, and the theme is “Ugliest Christmas Outfit.” Break out the ugly sweaters, everyone. Every month the Middle School Student Council awards a prize to the class who is dressed up the most. Good luck and happy holidays! 23 8th Grade Veterans Day Breakfast and Program Counselor News by Rhonda Uelmen

The 8th grade has been busy with WKCE testing during the month of November. They are now done testing until 10th grade. The 8th graders are also required to perform a job shadow, which is due the last week of school. Parents and students will set this up; however, if there are challenges with that, please feel free to contact me at school. I have many resources that would be helpful. Ideally, I would like parents to help their child find the job area but have the student make contact. Educators are finding that our students are lacking the ability to communicate effectively because of texting and the Internet. Each student has a syllabus with the job shadow requirements. Please take pictures if the place of employment will allow it. Finally, please continue to have conversations with your children about respect. Even though you don’t agree with someone, you do not have the right to hurt someone physically or verbally because they do not believe the same thing. Accept differences, especially if it does not have anything to do with you. Photos by Kaylah Schuette

DECEMBER 2012 VOLUME 8, ISSUE 4

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER FOR SHIOCTON MUSIC SHIOCTON CHRISTMAS PARTY: CHILI DINNER and WINTER CONCERT Monday, December 10 YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO… CHILI DINNER 4:00-6:30 p.m. THE SHIOCTON CHRISTMAS PARTY: CHILI DINNER AND WINTER CONCERT Cafeteria

Join us as we celebrate the holidays with good food and good music. The Shiocton CONCERT S Christmas Party is a sure way to usher in the warmth of the season. Let us serve you 7:00 p.m. a full meal featuring chili, buns, refreshments, and dessert on Monday, December 10. HS Gym Dinner will be served from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. and will feature music of the season as 5-12 BAND/6-12 CHOIR you dine. We asked Santa to join us again, too! Our annual Winter Concert will CHRISTMAS PEP BAND follow at 7:00 p.m. and feature all bands and all choirs. We are asking music parents Friday, December 14 to bring a pot of chili for the chili dump or a dessert to pass, or to volunteer their time 7-12 BAND during the chili dinner. Please look for information coming home this month and on our Facebook pages with more details on the Shiocton Christmas Party. Be sure to MIDDLE SCHOOL invite the entire family! We want this to be our best party yet! CAROLING TRIP Wednesday, December 19 Shiocton Christmas Party Rennes Retirement Home Ages 13 & up $5 6-8 BAND and CHOIR STUDENTS Ages 4 to 12 $3 Under 4 Free! MIDDLE SCHOOL SOLO/ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL Monday, January 28 AND TO ERFORM HRISTMAS ALF TIME HOW AT ASKETBALL AME B P C H - S B G EVENT MUSIC UPCOMING 3:30-6:30 p.m. All band students (grades 7-12) will perform in a half-time show featuring Trans- 6-8 BAND and CHOIR STUDENTS

Siberian Orchestra’s Christmas Eve/Sarajevo at the basketball game on Friday, MIDDLE SCHOOL December 14. Students should be in the band room at 6:30 p.m. JAZZ BAND TRIP Friday, February 1 MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSIC GROUPS CAROL FOR THE ELDERLY Lawrence University Time TBA (evening) The middle school band and choir (grades 6-8) will travel to Rennes Retirement JAZZ BAND STUDENTS Community in Appleton on Wednesday, December 19, from approximately 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Students will be excused from classes but will be expected to make up any work missed during the trip. We will stop for lunch before our Come on, I’ve got a deadline performance. There is no cost for the trip other than the cost of lunch at to meet! McDonalds. A signed permission slip will be required of all students attending the trip. Please be on the lookout for information coming home early this month. If

you have any questions about the trip, please contact Mrs. Anderson or Mr. Yenor.

Arts involvement teaches children many skills necessary to succeed in life, including problem solving and decision making, building self- confidence and self-discipline, the ability to imagine what might be and to accept responsibility for it, teamwork, the development of informed perception, and articulating a vision.

DID YOU KNOW... YOU DID Happy Holidays! www.shiocton.k12.wi.us/upbeat.cfm • facebook.com/shioctonband • facebook.com (“Shiocton Choir Shiocton”) CHRIS ANDERSON • Director of Choirs • [email protected] • (920) 986-3351 ext. 772 SHIOCTON MUSIC BRADD YENOR • Director of Bands • [email protected] • (920) 986-3351 ext. 718