JULY, 2015
The Mt. Vernon
Messenger
Meet Dr. Shane Robbins,
New MV Superintendent
Mt. Vernon Community
School Corporation
1776 W. State Road 234
Fortville, IN 46040
Volume XVIII, No. 1
www.mvcsc.k12.in.us
The definitions of well-rounded and experienced have a new
definition. Dr. William “Shane” Robbins comes to Mt. Vernon
with many accomplishments, accolades, and strong, relevant
experience. His robust track record includes implementation of
one-to-one technology in the classrooms, e-learning days, and
consistently improving schools’ scores throughout his tenure.
Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is
fortunate to have a superintendent with such an experienced
background in the areas identified for growth in Mt. Vernon’s
new strategic plan.
Strong Education
Dr. Robbins received his B.A. in Allied Health at Franklin College in 1993, and soon became a National Athletic Trainers Association Certified Athletic Trainer. He then worked in
the industrial rehabilitation field. After returning to graduate school at Ball State University,
he earned his master’s degrees in Secondary Education in 1999 and K-12 Administration in
2003. He continued his education at Ball State University and received his Educational Specialist Degree as a Superintendent in 2007, and Doctorate in Educational Leadership in 2011.
Extensive Experience
Dr. Robbins’ first educational setting was in 1998 as a health and science teacher at
Hartford City’s Blackford High School. He began his administrative career as the high
Continued on page 2
Mt. Vernon Schools Brings Individual Computer
Devises to All Students and Staff Fall 2015!
Beginning with the 2015-2016 school
year, all Mt. Vernon Community School
Corporation (MVCSC) students and staff
will be immersed in a technology-rich environment with individual computer devices.
The 1:1 Digital Learning Initiative (one
computer device to one student/staff) will
be a tool to motivate, engage, and challenge
students to learn 21st century skills that will
be an integral part of virtually every aspect
of their daily lives.
Device Type:
• Kindergarten through 5th Grade – Students and staff will receive 16GB Apple
iPads in the Fall. The device provides a
natural kinesthetic component that keeps
students engaged and on task. As teachers/staff become comfortable the devices
may be sent home.
• 6th Grade through 12th Grade – Students
and staff will receive Dell Chromebooks.
This device is a natural fit for the Google
operating environment utilized at
MVCSC. It will provide older students
with the increased word processing and
research needs for the curriculum of
older students. The devices will go home
with the students daily.
How:
• Teachers will be engaged in frequent
professional development activities to
learn how to best utilize digital curriculum in their classroom. This will enable
teachers to engage students with a new
tool to increase student achievement.
• The 1:1 Initiative will allow former
inclement weather make-up days to
become “eLearning Days”, where schoolwork will take place at home with the
device. In preparation for “eLearning,”
the district will engage in a mock “eLearning Day” at school to prepare students for the experience.
School begins July 30!
Back-to-School Information Starts on page 4!
Continued on page 2
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
school principal at Madison-Grant High
School in 2005, and then the Associate
Principal for Huntington North High
School in 2006. In 2008, Dr. Robbins
became the Superintendent of Monroe
Central School Corporation. By 2011,
Monroe Central School Corporation
had received their first “A” district letter
grade from the Indiana Department of
Education (IDOE).
In 2012, Dr. Robbins became the
Superintendent of the Northwestern
Consolidated School District of Shelby
County. A few of his many noteworthy accomplishments include leading the threeschool district with declining enrollment
into a project-based learning approach
and one-to-one technology initiatives (one
computer device to one student/staff).
Both of these achievements resulted in
all schools receiving an “A - Exemplary
Status” letter grade by the IDOE. Triton
Central Middle School was also identified as a “National School to Watch,” and
Triton Central High School was named
a four-star high school. He came to the
Shelby County school district with a
vision and a plan to make it a successful
education system where students thrive.
Dr. Robbins’ accomplished background includes participation in an educator exchange program with China and
Taiwan. He treasured the opportunity for
international educational partnerships
and appreciated that his staff could learn
and interact with educators from different cultures.
Dr. Robbins has also served his country in the United States Army/Indiana
National Guard since 1987. He rose in
rank as a Lieutenant Colonel, and was the
Education Officer and Chief of Operations
during the “Operation Enduring Freedom”
Dr. Robbins greets teachers.
deployment to Afghanistan. His team’s
mission was to train secondary and postsecondary agriculture teachers/professors.
During his military career he received
the following awards: Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Commendation
Medal, Indiana Commendation Medal,
Indiana Long-Term Service Medal,
NATO Service Medal and the Operation
Enduring Freedom Service Award. His
military career travels and experiences
have enhanced his perspective as a public school superintendent. As a career
military officer, strong values guide his
actions. These principals include: loyalty,
duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.
Accolades have been consistent
throughout Dr. Robbins’ career. He was
recognized by the Indiana Association of
School Business Officials as the Region VI
Business Officer of the Year, Cambridge’s
Who’s Who Among Business Executives,
and also as a “Distinguished Hoosier” by
the former Indiana Governor, Mitch Daniels. Most recently he was appointed to a
panel of four Indiana superintendents to
review the accountability system for the
state’s educational system.
Dr. Riggs prior to his retirement. Dr.
Robbins plans to be visible in both the
community and the schools. He states,
“I believe authentic relationships are essential and that can only be accomplished
by building trust. Trust is not built behind
closed doors.”
Mt. Vernon Community School Board
President, Tony May, states, “We are fortunate to have been able to hire our first
choice candidate. Dr. Shane Robbins was
the stand-out contender from the beginning, and his experience and genuine
character will be instrumental in taking
our school district to the next level.”
Looking Ahead to the MV Team
Getting Personal
Significant Awards
Dr. Robbins states, “There are multiple
reasons for my excitement in becoming
the superintendent at MVCSC. One
reason in particular is the opportunity to
be a part of the board’s strategic plan that
includes becoming a one-to-one computing district. The successful one-to-one
computing initiative my former district
completed provided a 21st century learning platform for our students, and was instrumental in raising our district from
a C to an A-Exemplary district. It also
provided our team an opportunity
to share our success with colleagues
across the state, thus recognizing the
hard work of our staff and the positive
outcomes we have achieved.”
As an incoming superintendent,
Dr. Robbins plans to embark on a
“look, listen and learn” approach
during the transition. He is currently
educating himself on the MVCSC
district and plans to spend time with
Dr. Robbins currently resides in
Greenwood with his wife Heather, and
sons Bryce (17) and Brandon (13). His
personal decisions are made with the
priorities: “faith, family, and career.” With
those values guiding their family, they
have made the decision to become a part
of the Mt. Vernon community which includes changing their sons’ schools. “This
is never easy, however we are excited at
the opportunities for them to grow as
individuals and be a positive contribution
to our new home,” states Dr. Robbins.
One of Dr. Robbins favorite pasttimes is going to Pacers games and other
sporting events with his family, including
his sons’ baseball games. He also enjoys
watching college football, and riding his
bike for exercise when time allows.
For additional information, please see
Dr. Robbins’ personal website at www.
DrShaneRobbins.com.
Read Dr. Robbins’ From the Supe’s Desk on www.mvcsc.k12.in.us, and follow him @Dr_ShaneRobbins.
2
JULY, 2015
TECHNOLOGY continued from page 1
Funding:
• This project is being funded from the
“Capital Projects Fund”, particularly from
line items designated for technology in
the school budget. The other funding
source will be textbook rental fees.
• The device fee of $135 will be replacing student textbook rental fees,
so students’ fees should be approximately the same, if not lower in some
cases. Grades 6 – 12 will still have
some additional class fees based on
classes the students select.
• ZERO Referendum or General Fund
dollars are funding this project.
Maintenance:
• The computer device is being leased,
similar to a textbook, therefore it
belongs to the school. It is the student’s responsibility to take care of
this device. Cases will be provided for
transportation.
• Parents will have the opportunity to
purchase insurance for the device. The
iPad insurance is $38/year, and the
Chromebook is $19/year. Both have
a $50 deductible. Without insurance,
if the device is damaged the replacement fees are $475 for the iPad and
$240 for the Chromebook.
1:1 FAQ’S
Q: Why is Mt. Vernon
Implementing a 1:1 Initiative?
A: The primary reason is to continue
to stay at the forefront of providing our students with a 21st
century learning environment.
Not only does this tool provide
flexibility (such as the inclement
weather option,) it also is a proven
way to increase engagement and
efficiency in the classroom. When
utilized in the classroom, technology integration has proven to
increase student engagement, allow for greater differentiation of
instruction, allow for students to
advocate for their education, all
at the same time increase student
achievement. (Caldwell, 2007;
Kay and LeSage, 2009)
Q: Will the laptops replace
textbooks?
A: Eventually. We will utilize the
textbooks we have purchased, but
moving forward ALL of our textbooks will be digital. They are in
a printable format so that we can
utilize both options. The nice thing
about a digital textbook is that as
Indiana’s standards change there is
little lapse in the realignment of the
standards in the curriculum.
Q: What if I don’t have internet
at home, will kids be penalized?
A: There is no penalty for the lack
of internet access. Students can
download their assignments and
simply upload the completed
assignment once returning to
school or whenever they have
access. The school’s internet will
be accessible whenever students
are on campus. They do not
need to be inside the building to
connect.
Q: What curriculum are we
using, and will it align with
state standards?
A: The curriculum we will utilize is
called “EdMentum.” EdMentum is
a software provider that provides
curriculum aligned specifically to
Indiana’s state standards. It provides both formative and summative assessments for staff and
will eventually sync directly with
Skyward.
Q: How will my child learn
handwriting at the
elementary schools?
A: Because we are utilizing a “blend-
ed” learning environment, a portion of the day will
still be utilized in a
paper/pencil/hardcover book environment. Our goal is
to develop a wellrounded student.
fer basic answers to technology
questions experienced outside of
the school day. Students will also
have the opportunity to email
the classroom teacher for basic
classroom questions as well. It
should be a highly engaging and
collaborative atmosphere.
Q: How are we keeping my child
safe by giving them email &
internet access?
A: The Child Internet Protection Act
(CIPA) requires schools to filter
the internet. Additionally, student
emails cannot be utilized for communication with anyone outside
of the school district and likewise,
no one outside of the school district can email our students.
Q: Will this reduce inclement
weather make-up days?
A: Yes, with inclement weather
school cancellations, learning
will take place with the
computer device at home. These
“eLearning” days will eliminate
make-up days.
Q: How will this help me, as a
community tax-payer?
A: Working in a 21st century
learning environment will
prepare our students for
post-secondary education,
vocational training, and entry
into the workforce. Providing
a technology rich environment
is also an attraction for families
who may be investigating in
moving into our community.
Q: Who will my
child call if
they have issues
after school?
A: Part of the plan will
be the creation of a
technology hotline.
This hotline will of-
More FAQs for Parents and the Community at www.mvcsc.k12.in.us under “1:1 Plan”
3
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
Welcome Back to School!!
dergarten, and 6-years-old on or before
August 1 to attend first grade.
School begins Thursday, July 30
Kindergarten begins Thursday, July 30
Watch local newspapers for additional start of school information.
ARE YOU NEW TO OUR SCHOOLS? WELCOME!!
The School Bus
On the first day of school, students
should be ready for their bus at least one
hour before school starts. A firm pick-up
time will be set in a few days.
Up-to-Date Immunizations
How to Enroll
Mt. Vernon Middle School:
If you have a child new to Mt. Vernon,
you may enroll him/her on the following
registration dates:
Back to School Night for 6th/7th
Grades is August 5 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Back to School Night for 8th Grade
is August 6 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.
• Mt. Comfort, McCordsville and
Fortville Elementary Schools, open
July 20: 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Mt. Vernon Middle School opens
July 21: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Mt. Vernon High School student
registration dates are July 15 and
July 22: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
When enrolling a new student, be
sure to bring your child’s official birth
certificate from the health department,
proof of legal guardianship, a complete
immunization record, address of previous school, and proof of residency to the
school your child will attend.
Mt. Comfort Elementary:
Mt. Vernon High School:
Freshman Orientation is July 23 from
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. See the high school
website under “Parents” tab for registration form to accompany $20 fee. MVHS Open House is 7:00-8:30 p.m.
on August 12.
Senior Parent Night meeting is before
the MVHS Open House on August 12
from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Parents are encouraged to stay for the Open House from
7:00-8:30 p.m.
IMPORTANT!!
REGISTER RETURNING STUDENTS
THROUGH SKYWARD
For students returning to Mt. Vernon, the registration process will be
online beginning July 20, and must be
completed by noon on July 27. Using
your MVCSC Skyward Family Access
account for online registration, parents
need to verify and update student, family,
McCordsville Elementary:
contact and emergency information &
Back to School Night is July 29 K-2 is
Skylert information. From your Skyward
from 4:30 – 6:15 p.m. and Grades 3-5 is
Family Access account (not the student
6:30 – 7:45 p.m. Students will meet the
access account), you will be able to access
teacher and see the classroom. Students
MVCSC required forms and documents.
can bring in their supplies as well.
Online payment options will be availFortville Elementary:
able at a later date.
Back to School Night is July 29 K-2
Remember, you can access online
is from 4:30-6:15 p.m. and Grades 3-5
registration from any computer with inis 6:30-7:45 p.m. Students will meet the
ternet access (home, public library, public
teacher and see the classroom. Students
places with open wi-fi). Your Skyward
can bring in their supplies as well.
Family Access login and password will
protect you and your student’s conWhen enrolling a new student, be sure to bring
fidential information. You must log
your child’s official birth certificate from the
into your Family Access account to
health department, proof of legal guardianship,
register returning students, not the
a complete immunization record, address of
student access account.
previous school, and proof of residency.
Kindergarten and Preschool Orientation is July 28, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Back to
School Night for grades 1-5 is July 29
from 6:00-7:30 p.m. Students will meet
the teacher and see the classroom. Students can bring in their supplies as well.
Book rental payments for all schools
can be made by
Cash, Check, Visa, or MasterCard.
4
Age to Enter School
On or before August 1, students
must be 5-years-old to attend kin-
School begins July 30, are your child’s
immunizations up-to-date? To protect all
students, Indiana law requires each child
enrolled in school to be completely immunized against communicable diseases.
A complete record of his or her immunizations must be kept on file in the school
office. For students new to the school
system – including kindergartners – this
record must be on file before the child
can attend classes at the start of school.
Please refer to immunizations article on
page 5.
Daily Lunch Cost
Elem. School
$2.65
8th Grade Academy $2.70
Middle School
$2.70
High School
$2.70
Adults
$3.20
Milk
$ .50
Reduced Lunch
$ .40
Daily Breakfast Cost
Breakfast is served daily in each building
Students
$1.65
Adults
$2.00
Reduced
Breakfast
$ .30
MEAL ASSISTANCE
After July 16, any family wishing to
apply for meal assistance may do so by
going online at www.schoollunchapp.
com. Internet access can also be found in
public libraries or local restaurants with
public wi-fi. Students eligible for free or
reduced lunch assistance may qualify
for textbook assistance; watch for the
textbook rental assistance option in the
online application.
ONLINE MEAL PAYMENT
Parents can pay for their students’
lunches by going to www.myschoolbucks.com, create an account and pay for
meals with credit/debit card or electronic
check. Also, check out the app available!
PAYING TEXTBOOK RENTAL
Rental fees for the computer device
Continued on next page
JULY, 2015
(which replaced textbook rental fees)
cover the entire year and are due at the
beginning of school after the invoice
is posted on Skyward. Textbook rental
payments for all schools can be made by
cash, check, Visa or MasterCard.
Kindergarten, Grades 1-5 $135.00
Grades 6-12
$135.00 +
specific class fees
To apply for book rental assistance,
you must apply before October 31, 2015
by marking the appropriate box on the
school meal assistance application at
www.schoollunchapp.com. Assistance
for eligible students does not cover the
entire cost of the books and fees. The
parent must pay the difference. An initial
payment may be requested at the time of
application. For more information, please
contact your school principal.
Daily Schedules
School
BeginsDismissal
High School
8:35 am3:30 pm
Middle School
8:30 am3:20 pm
8th Grade Academy 8:35 am3:30 pm
Mt. Comfort Elem. 7:45 am2:15 pm
Fortville Elem.
7:45 am2:15 pm
McCordsville Elem. 7:45 am2:15 pm
Important Calendar Dates
July 20— Elementary School offices open
July 21— Middle School, 8th Grade
Academy offices open
July 22— High School Guidance and
Administrative offices open
July 29— Teacher workday
July 30— First day of school: Gr. K-12.
Sept. 7—Labor Day (no school).
Please be sure to register for
our emergency alert system.
Indiana State Department of Health
2015-16 Immunization Requirements
3- to 5-years-old:
3 Hep B (Hepatitis B)
4 DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis)
3 Polio (Inactivated Polio)
1 MMR (Measles, Mumps & Rubella)
1 Varicella
Kindergarten & Grade 1:
3 Hep B
4 Polio
2 Varicella
5 DTaP
2 MMR
2 Hep A (Hepatitis A)
Grades 2 to 5:
3 Hep B
4 Polio
2 Varicella
5 DTaP
2 MMR
Grades 6 to 11:
3 Hep B
5 DTaP
4 Polio
2 MMR
2 Varicella
1 Tdap (Tetanus & Pertussis)
1 MCV4 (Meningococcal conjugate)
Grades 12:
3 Hep B
5 DTaP
4 Polio
2 MMR
2 Varicella
1 Tdap (Tetanus & Pertussis)
2 MCV4 (Meningococcal conjugate)
Hep B — The minimum age for the 3rd
dose of Hepatitis B is 24 weeks of age.
DTaP — 4 doses of DTaP/DTP/DT are
acceptable if 4th dose was administered on or after child’s 4th birthday.
Polio — 3 doses of Polio are acceptable for
all grade levels if the 3rd dose was given
on or after the 4th birthday and at least 6
months after the previous dose with only
one type of vaccine used (all OPV or all
IPV). For students in grades K-5 the final
dose must be administered on or after the
4th birthday, and be administered at least
6 months after the previous dose.
Live Vaccines (MMR, Varicella & LAIV) —
Live vaccines that are not administered
on the same day must be administered a
minimum of 28 days apart. The second
dose should be repeated if the doses are
separated by less than 28 days.
Varicella — Physician documentation of
disease history, including month and
year, is proof of immunity for children
entering preschool through 7th grade.
Parental report of disease history is acceptable for grades 8-12.
Tdap — There is no minimum interval
from the last Td dose.
MCV4 — Individuals who receive dose 1
on or after their 16th birthday only need
1 dose of MCV4
For children who have delayed immunizations, please refer to the 2015 CDC
Catch-up Immunization Schedule to
determine adequately immunizing doses.
All minimum intervals and ages for each
vaccination as specified per 2015 CDC
guidelines must be met for a dose to be
valid. These guidelines can be found at
www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/
More Back to
School Information
can be found on other pages
in this newsletter.
Freshman Kick-Off
pg 6
Calendar Notes
pg 7
July-Dec. Calendar pg 19
Notes From the
School Nurse
Indiana State Law requires all students attending school to have complete
and satisfactory immunization records on
file at school. The record must include
the month, day, and year for each immunization. A copy of the immunization
requirements from the Indiana State
Department of Health is located on this
same page in the Messenger.
If you have not already done so, please
submit documentation of the required
immunizations to MVCSC School Nurse
Michelle Shaw by fax 317-482-4106, by
mail MVHS – 8112 N. 200 W., Fortville,
IN 46040, or by email at michelle.shaw@
mvcsc.k12.in.us.
If up-to-date documentation is not
received, students will be excluded
(unexcused) from school until the
documentation is received. Should you
have any questions or require additional
information, please call Michelle Shaw
R.N. at 485-3131. Thank you for your
attention to this very important Indiana
State Law that involves your student's
health and education.
Indiana State Law also requires the
school to do annual vision screenings on
1st, 3rd, 5th and 8th grade students. This
is only a screening. If a student should
need further testing by a doctor, a note
will be sent to the parent/guardian. If
you wish, you can choose to not have
your student's vision screened by sending a note to Michelle Shaw or to your
student's Health Room Assistant.
We look forward to seeing and taking
care of your MV student this 2015-2016
school year. Enjoy the rest of your summer break!
5
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
Meet Brandon Ecker, MVHS's New Athletic Director
It’s been four long years for Mt. Vernon High School’s assistant principals
who have split the athletic director
duties in addition to completing their
other administration roles. The athletic
director position was eliminated in 2011
due to budget constraints. Mt. Vernon
Community School Corporation has officially hired Brandon Ecker as the new
Athletic Director, and the staff is more
than ready for him.
Ecker comes to MVHS as the former
athletic director for New Castle High
School. Both Mt. Vernon and New Castle
are in the same Hoosier Heritage Conference which should help provide a smooth
transition for Ecker.
Ecker received his bachelor of science
in History Education from Huntington
University and also received a scholarship
to play tennis. Ecker began working on
his administrator’s license at Ball State
University and finished his Athletic Administration Masters Degree at Western
Kentucky University while living in
Indianapolis.
Ecker began his career in education
in as a social studies teacher in Union
County High School, which led him to
teaching three years in the Richmond
Alternative High School. During this
time he gained experience as an Athletic
Supervisor for Centerville High School.
He then took a part-time social studies
Class of 2019 Come to Freshmen Kick-Off!
For the ninth year in a row, Mt. Vernon High School will once again be offering
our Freshman Orientation event on Thursday, July 23, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm as a
freshman transition experience. We realize that, as eighth graders, the class of 2019 has
gotten to experience a little bit of what Mt. Vernon High School has to offer, and what
it may be like to be a high school student next year. But, the transition to high school
can still be intimidating and challenging. New teachers, new policies, expanded areas
of the building, increased extracurricular opportunities, and very high expectations are
all issues incoming freshmen will want to be prepared for. Participants in orientation
programs like the Freshman Kick-Off have earned higher grade point averages, been
more likely to be involved in extracurricular opportunities and had fewer disciplinary
issues than those who have not participated. We encourage all incoming freshmen to get
a head start on high school by coming to enjoy a fun and information day led entirely
by upperclassmen who know exactly what it is like to be a freshman student at Mt.
Vernon! We want every freshman to enjoy a successful transition to high school and
to have an outstanding first year! Go to www.mvcsc.k12.in.us, click on “High School”
then “Parents” then “Freshman Orientation 7/23” to learn more.
2015‑2016 Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation
Corporation Improvement Council
Proposed MEETINGS AND TOPICS
DATE
TIMETOPIC
August 3, 2015
7:00 P.M.One-to-One and Blended Learning
September 8, 2015 7:00 P.M.Orientation/Corporation Budget/Topic Selection
October, 2105
7:00 P.M.Open
November 2, 2105 7:00 P.M.Open
December 7, 2105 7:00 P.M.Open
January 4, 2016
7:00 P.M.Open
February 1, 2016
7:00 P.M.Open
March 7, 2016
7:00 P.M.Open
April 4, 2016
7:00 P.M.Open
May 2, 2016
7:00 P.M. Student Handbooks/Election of Co-Chair
for 2016-2017
June 6, 2016
7:00 P.M.Planning Session
Meeting Site (unless otherwise designated): MVCSC Board Room, 1776 W. SR 234, Fortville,
IN 46040, 317-485-3100, www.mvcsc.k12.in.us
6
teacher and parttime athletic director position at
Shelbyville High
School.
A full-time
athletic director
position opened at
New Castle High
School in 2012
where Ecker became a natural as
a department leader. He steered New
Castle High School through switching
from the North Central Conference to
the Hoosier Heritage Conference. His
main focus was to keep a full schedule
for the athletes so they can still develop
their talents and have a full athletic experience. Ecker was also challenged with
keeping the athletics financially afloat
during challenging economic times.
Ecker was nominated as a Junior
Director representing District 4 for the
Indiana Interscholastic Athletic Administration Association (IIAAA). The IIAAA
is the organization that works with the
IHSAA on behalf of the schools. Since he
will be continuing to work at a school in
the Hoosier Heritage Conference, he will
maintain this role while at Mt. Vernon. In
the year 2016-2017 Ecker will become
a Senior Director for IIAAA.
Ecker states, “I am really looking forward to working as a team at Mt. Vernon
High School. The dedication to education and providing a sound competitive
athletic program are a priority at Mt.
Vernon, and I plan to continue to helping
to develop good citizens and prepare the
students for a successful future.”
MVHS Principal, Bernie Campbell,
states “Brandon’s reputation precedes
him as an outstanding team leader with
his intuitive leadership style and strong
moral ethics. Out of 86 applicants for
this position, we are very pleased to
have selected the strongest candidate
with experience that will lead Mt. Vernon’s athletic program through the next
generation.”
Ecker resides in Indianapolis with
his wife Brandy, step-son and one yearold daughter. Their family is planning
on moving into the Mt. Vernon school
district sometime in the future.
JULY, 2015
Mt. Vernon High School is Four-Star School – Again!
The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) announced
Indiana's Four Star Schools for 2013-2014 which includes Mt.
Vernon High School for the third year in a row.
To receive a four-star designation, one of the criteria schools
must meet is to be in the top 25th percentile of schools in two
ISTEP-based categories. Schools must also have received an “A”
in the state's accountability system and be accredited by the
IDOE. For 2013-2014, 281 schools received the award.
Superintendent Ritz states, “I am honored to name these
schools as our Four-Star Schools for this year. Winning this
award is a testament to the excellent work done by teachers,
administrators, students and parents throughout the year. On
behalf of the entire Indiana Department of Education I send
them my sincere congratulations.”
Mt. Vernon High School Principal Bernie Campbell shared,
“I couldn't be more proud of our staff and our students’ performance. The commitment by the staff to provide a superior
education for the Mt. Vernon students has never wavered. The
combination of their dedication and the students’ hard work
have provided an award-winning school to be proud of.”
Mt. Vernon Education Foundation
Awards Total More than $175,000
Ending the 2014-2015 school year,
Mt. Vernon Education Foundation
awarded several grants bringing their total to over $175,000. Embracing the new
approach to giving, opening requests to
year round consideration, more teachers,
administrators and students requested
much needed funds for their programs.
Addressing needs at each school in
MVCSC, the foundation works with
community partners to meet the needs
of teachers, students and administrators.
Hancock Regional Hospital Foundation,
Duke Energy and the Hancock County
Community Foundation all joined MVEF
in awarding grants to deserving programs
within the MVCSC district.
Mt. Vernon High School expanded
their requests, including the first ever
student written proposal with the assistance of MVHS Technology instructor,
Tom Shaver. MVTV, MVHS television
and video production program, received
a professional grade camera crane to
enhance their production opportunities.
Jennifer Sherback will attend Pre-AP Institute, learning
how to better
prepare freshmen students
for AP classes
as upperclassmen. Geometry teacher, Joe
Anderson will
bring Chromebooks into his
classroom for
a flipped classroom; essentially allowing students
to work ahead, use classroom time for
additional time with Mr. Anderson and
review work at their own pace.
Mt. Vernon Middle School received
a number of document cameras for
their classrooms allowing teachers and
students to integrate digital technology
into their daily lessons. Mrs. Moore at
Mt. Comfort Elementary School will
integrate exercise ball chairs into her
classroom. Teachers have found that
when students have the opportunity to
actively engage their bodies during the
school day, the students focus and energy
levels improve.
High ability reading opportunities
are coming to Fortville Elementary
School students with the assistance of
experienced high ability instructor Jessica
Daugherty. A nationally respected curriculum, Smekens Educational Conference,
will be attended by Fortville teachers,
Alyson Huston and Angela Hyde.
You can support MVEF by participating in the 5k Race and 1 Mile Fun Run
on September 26, 2015.
Calendar Notes
(see page 13 for more Aug.-Dec. dates)
•
All Mt. Vernon Schools are on
nine week grading schedules.
• Calendar subject to change
if necessitated by legislative
action, emergency school
closings, or IDOE waiver action.
• The MVCSC will conduct 180
student days and 183 teacher
days between July 29, 2015 and
May 27, 2016. Any days missed
during the first quarter will be
made up during the week of
October 5-9, 2015. No makeup
days will be conducted during
the Second Quarter Break.
Please be aware, Presidents’
Day and Martin Luther King
Jr. Day are scheduled makeup
days for any missed days prior
to February 14, 2015. Any
additional missed days will be
made up during the week of
March 14 through 18 and at the
end of the school year
Join Us!
5K & 1 MILE FUN RUN/WALK on September 26!
• The 6th Annual Mt. Vernon Education Foundation Race,
presented by Hancock Regional Hospital
• Walk or Run to Support our Schools!
When: Saturday, September 26, 2015
5K begins at 8:30 a.m., and 1 Mile begins at 9:00 a.m.
Where: Start/Finish at Mt. Vernon High School 8112 N. 200 W., Fortville, IN 46040
Who: All ages and ability are invited to participate (preschoolers and under are free)
www.MtVernonFoundation.org
[email protected] | 317.482.4110
7
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
Academic Team Wins
State Super Bowl
MVCSC Honors Academic Wall of Fame
and School Board Scholars Recipients
The Mt. Vernon High School Fine
Arts Academic Team won the State
Championship in Class 1 at Purdue University on May 9. The team qualified for
state finals the past three years, placing
3rd in 2013 and 6th in 2014. The topic
this year was “The Grandeur that was
Rome,” and the students won by correctly
answering 21 out of 25 questions.
Several students were honored for their academic accomplishments at the June
Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) School Board meeting.
The following received recognition on the Academic Wall
of Fame:
FORTVILLE ELEMENTARY:
Spelling Bee Champion: Joseph Wilson
Geography Bee Champion: Gavin Privett
Addition T-Race Champion: Joseph Wilson
Multiplication T-Race Champion: Gabriel Bell
MT. COMFORT ELEMENTARY (not pictured):
Spelling Bee Champion: Riley Britt
Geography Champion: Logan Hufty
Addition T-Race Champion: Krystiana White
Multiplication T-Race Champion: Mandy Bechman
MCCORDSVILLE ELEMENTARY:
Spelling Bee Champion: Jocelyn Hall
Geography Bee Champion: NA
Addition T-Race Champion: Luke Hiner
Multiplication T-Race Champion: Nicole
Burris
The MVHS Fine Arts Academic
Team did an excellent job of defending
the shield. Team members include (pictured left to right): Alyssa Meyer, Gavin
Stamper, team captain Cassandra Bridges,
and Tess Barnett. They are coached by
Ms. Sherbak.
There are four classes for the Academic Teams which are determined by
school size. Mt. Vernon High School is
in the largest group, Class 1. Out of 81
teams in the Fine Arts Class 1, only seven
qualify for state. The state competition results were: First Place – Mt. Vernon with
21, Second Place – Crown Point with19,
and Third Place – Shelbyville with 18.
Other state finalists were: Greenwood,
Lowell, Munster and Richmond.
Congratulations on this remarkable
display of academic excellence to these
four students! This phenomenal accolade
demonstrates once again Mt. Vernon's
exceptional education that is provided
to students.
MT. VERNON MIDDLE SCHOOL (not
pictured):
Spelling Bee Champion: Seth Morrison
Geography Bee Champion: Tyler Strantz
MT. VERNON HIGH SCHOOL:
Valedictorian: Caitlin Lindman
Salutatorian: Samantha Gawrys
State Champion Fine Arts Academic Team: Jennifer Sherbak,
Coach; Cassandra Bridges, Captain; Tess Barnett; Alyssa Meyer;
Gavin Stamper
School Board Scholar Five Times or More: Mark Alvarado (5);
Kyle Forsythe (6); Braxton Ratekin (5); Mia Amundson (7);
Samantha Gawrys (8); Hannah Whitaker (5); Allison Campbell
(6); Caitlin Lindman (8); Grant Williams (7); Addison Eads (8);
Kylie Lyons (6); Emmy Zhang (7)
( ) years as a scholar
Visit Us! mvcsc.k12.in.us
Have you visited our web site? If not, there is an amazing amount
of information at your fingertips to help you stay informed and upto-date on the latest at Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation.
Plus, each of the corporation’s schools are linked to the web site, so
you can go to those sites to learn even more. Visit us!!
twitter.com/mvcsc_district
facebook.com/MtVernonSchoolDistrict
8
JULY, 2015
There were many additional students who received the School Board Scholar
award. All award-recipients must receive grades of 95% or greater (“A” or “A+”) in every
class each grading period. The student must be enrolled full-time for at least 160 days
and received grades from all four quarters. Honored recipients received a certificate,
a trophy, and their names were entered permanently into the records of the School
Board during its regular monthly meeting held after the program.
MCCORDSVILLE ELEMENTARY — Olivia Lugo (1)
FORTVILLE ELEMENTARY — Gabriel Bell (1),
Carly Wilkerson (2), Joseph Wilson (1)
MT. COMFORT ELEMENTARY — Mandy Bechman
(2), Riley Britt (2), Julie Nicklin (1)
MT. VERNON MIDDLE SCHOOL — Allyson
Beattie (3), Abigail Corbly (2), Tessa Freeman (4),
Katherine Gawrys (3), Sydney Godwin (4), Riley
Hasseld (1), Cole Hess (3), Hannah Heydon (3),
Samuel Mackall (2), Andi Manship (4), Shiloh
McFarland (3), Joseph Moore (3), Seth Morrison (3),
Sofie Mott (3), Madalyn Owen (4), Campbell Shaffer
(4), Madison Stanley (2), Tyler Strantz (3), Hailey
Watson (3), Olivia Yeley (3)
Mt. Vernon Middle School Principal,
Scott Shipley, and Mt. Comfort Elementary Principal, Heather Whitaker, have
graduated from the Indiana Principal
Leadership Institute (IPLI).
Scott and Heather, are pictured with
Dr. Lori Boyland, Educational Leadership
Department Chair, Ball State University.
Dr. Boyland was also the former principal
at Mt. Vernon Intermediate School.
Elementary School Scholars
Middle School + 8th Grade Academy Scholars
8th GRADE ACADEMY (pictured with middle school) — Paige Boxberger (4), Keian
Gatewood (5), Elise Klinestiver (3), Joan Lee (3), Emme Longman (5), Charis Lott (3), Cleo
Mills (3), Madalyn Mull (5), Ryan Strantz (5)
MT. VERNON HIGH SCHOOL — Emily Annakin (2), Cassandra Bridges (5), Ian Carson
(4), Shaelyn Duff (3), Addison Eads (8), Lily Erlewein (8), Mary Grace Ertel (3), Kyle
Forsythe (6), Emily Frost (3), Samantha Gawrys (8), Nathan Grandstaff (6), Bryce Gray
(3), Matthew Hays (3), Morgan Hayse (2), Zoe Jenkins (1), Sara Kious (4), Caitlin Lindman
(8), Erica Lohman (7), Daniel Majors (3), Brendan O’Bryhim (6), Megan Parke (7), Alyssa
Powell (6), Kallan Ratekin (7), Matthew Rollo (6), Aaron Rush (6), Madison Smith (3),
Taran Sombke (1), Olivia Spicer (5), Gavin Stamper (7), Chelsea Theobald (8), Lydia
Tierney (6), Saleem Tucker (4), Hannah Watson (6), Daniel Werner (2), Hannah Whitaker
(5), Grant Williams (7), Sophia Williams (1), Sabrina Woods (6), Cassandra York (8)
High School Scholars
MVMS & MCE
Principals Graduate
from IPLI
Housed at Indiana State University’s
Bayh College of Education, IPLI is a
two-year experience that addresses the
professional needs of Indiana public
school principals with an emphasis on
student success. It was created with bipartisan support by the Indiana General
Assembly in 2013.
Principals Shipley and Whitaker were
two of 56 principals in IPLI’s first class.
Their accomplishments include boosting the individual grades of their school,
implementing data-driven processes to
enhance student performance, improving
classroom instruction, and strengthening
school culture. More than 72,000 students in 58 counties have been touched
by the principals’ work in IPLI. Additionally, 20 of the first cohort’s 56 principals
saw their school grades increase under
the A-F model. To learn more about IPLI,
please visit www.indianapli.org.
( ) years as a scholar
9
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
MVHS Senior Honor Night, May 5, 2015
Service and Citizenship
Recognition
Mike Johnson Memorial Scholarship:
($1,120) Hanna Abebe
Character Award: Hannah Jones
and Mason Rapp
Mt. Vernon Alumni Association:
($1,000) Hanna Abebe
Gary Lewark Award: Mason Rapp
Judy D. Smith Memorial Scholarship:
($616) Paige Harker
Service and Citizenship Merit: Karli
Alyse Badgley, Nicole Christine
Casler, Courtney Anne Cochard,
Brock Andrew Gohring, Allison
Karolmarie Hawkins, Caitlin
Elizabeth Lindman, Kaylee Marie
Lyons, Courtney Jerome Parker Jr.,
Mason Craig Rapp
Terry/Borgman Mental Attitude
Award: Samantha Gawrys
Senior Class Officers: Danielle
Ashley Nuckols, President;
Hannah Kay Jones, Vice-President;
Hanna Lily Abebe, Secretary;
Molly Kathleen Laughlin,
Treasurer
Student Government Officers:
Addison Ann Eads, President
National Honor Society Officers:
Larkin Elizabeth Cooper,
President; Taylor Ann Chatterson,
Vice-President; , Samantha
Therese Gawrys, Secretary; Caitlin
Elizabeth Lindman, Treasurer;
Haley Ranee Karr, Historian
Mt Vernon AP Scholars: Mark
Joseph Alvarado, Larkin Elizabeth
Cooper, Samantha Therese
Gawrys, Jordan Rae Lilly, and
Zane Franklin Roberts
AP Scholar with Honor
Designation: Grant Craig
Williams
Community Scholarship
Recognition
Bruce McKinney Memorial
Scholarship: ($891) Brianna
Douglas
NineStar Connect Scholarships:
($1,000 each) Samantha Case,
Brianna Douglas, Shaelyn Duff,
and Bailey Fleming
10
Ernie Oden Athletic Scholarships:
($250 each) Olivia Coleman,
Morgan Hayse, Cole Case, and Zach
Spears
MV Cheer Alumni Scholarship:
($500) Jordan Schacherer
Brandon Rush Award: ($100) Shelby
Blair
Mt Vernon Education Foundation:
($100) Danielle Nuckols
Rabe-Vermillion Scholarship:
($1962.50 each) Mason Barton and
Logan Jennings
Mark Mattick Mental Attitude Award:
($500 each) Nikki Casler and
Gabriel Alvarez
Chris Sullivan Memorial Music
Booster Scholarships: ($582 each)
Taylor Chatterson and Kayla
Kollman
FCCLA Scholarship: ($200) Kaylee
Lyons
Fortville Business and Professional
Women Scholarship: ($750) Addison
Eads
Psi Iota Xi Debbie Plank Memorial
Music Scholarship: ($1,000)
Courtney Cochard
Psi Iota Xi Literature Scholarship:
($1,000) Alexandria Stanfield
Richard H. Crosser Memorial
Scholarship: ($540) Lauren Virt
Margaret Johnson Honorary
Scholarship: ($2,000) Caitlin
Lindman
Hancock County Community
Foundation Scholarship- Lilly
Finalists: ($1,000) Mark Alvarado
George and Icy Vaughn Performing
Arts Scholarship: 3rd Place ($2,500)
Courtney Cochard 4th Place
($1,500) Derek Bond
Gladys Hancock Shumway
Scholarship: ($1,151) Kayla Kollman
Walter P. and Virginia Worland
Scholarship: ($1,600) Morgan Hayse
Nancy Terrell Miller Scholarship:
($1,140) Brianna Douglas
Roger’s Smile Scholarship: ($1,000)
Brittany Hughes
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6904
Scholarship: ($708) Caitlin Lindman
Earl J. and Irene B. Brooks Scholarship:
($5,857.50) Karre Landers ($2,000)
Brianna Douglas
Hancock County Art Educators
Scholarship: ($tbd) Emma Soukup
The Fortville McCordsville Chamber
of Commerce Scholarship: ($1000)
Sarah Elizabeth Jones
Steve Williams Soccer Scholarship:
($500 each) Danielle Nuckols and
Mathew Powell
Bright House Networks Futures
Leaders: (computer laptop, software
and carrying case) Bailey Anderson
Mt. Vernon Optimist Scholarship:
($1,000 each) Bailey Fleming, Kyle
Forsythe, Samantha Gawrys, Morgan
Hayse, Caitlin Lindman
Hancock County Office Professionals
Scholarship: ($1,114 each) Bailey
Marie Anderson, Caitlin Elizabeth
Lindman, and Brieann Michelle
Staker
Tri Kappa: ($1,000) Bailey Anderson
The Rotary Club of Greenfield
Education Scholarship: ($500)
Caitlin Lindman
Army Reserve Scholar Athlete: Olivia
Coleman
Psi Iota Xi Art Scholarship: ($1,000)
Bailey Anderson
Greenfield Sertoma Club Scholarship:
($500) Shelby Bernard
DAR Good Citizen: Morgan Hayse
JULY, 2015
Class of 2015 Graduate
The Class of 2015's graduation
went off without a hitch on May
29. Approximately 258 seniors
took the stage to shake hands and
move on to their bright future,
prepared with one of the finest
academic settings in the state.
Despite weather threatening to
create a challenge, the ceremony
at the Mt. Vernon High School
football field began the future of
some very excited seniors. Highlights of the evening included the
Dr. William Griffing Scholarship in
Science: ($1,000) Bailey Anderson
Lilly Endowment Community
Scholarship: (8 semesters of tuition +
$900 yearly stipend) Brieann Staker
West Point Academy Appointment:
Grant Williams
Recognition of Academic
Achievement
Top Scholar Awards – Mark Alvarado,
Allison Campbell, Addison Eads,
Rachel Furniss, Samantha Gawrys,
Kayla Kollmann, Jordan Lilly, Caitlin
Lindman, Kylie Lyons, Daniel Majors,
Braxton Ratekin, Taran Sombke,
Bradley Strayer, Hannah Whitaker,
Grant Williams
Mt. Vernon High School Department
Awards:
Agricultural Education – Brianna
Douglas
Band – Nicole Casler
Choir – Kaylee Lyons
Engineering Technology – Andrew
Weir
English/Language – Kayla Kollmann
FACS – Gabrielle Morris
Fine Arts – Bailey Fleming
Health/Phys. Ed. – Lincoln Hine
High Tech Academy – Jonathon
Yeary
Mathematics – Caitlin Lindman
Science – Grant Williams
Social Studies – Kayla Kollmann
World Language – Nicole Casler
Senior Leadership Award: ($1,000
each) Nicole Casler and Caitlin
Lindman
Total Amount of Scholarships
Awarded: $ 5,718,617
band performing the prelude and national
anthem, followed by opening remarks by
Mr. Derek Shelton, Assistant Principal.
The salutatory address was given by
Samantha Gawrys with encouragement to
be happy now, and the valedictory address
was by Caitlin Lindman with a focus on
seizing every opportunity. The choir sang
“The Road Home” by Stephen Paulus, and
the band played “At Dawn they Slept,” a
tribute to Pearl Harbor by Jay Bocook.
Soon after Mr. Bernard Campbell, Principal of Mt. Vernon High School, addressed
the Class of 2015 encouraging the seniors to make a difference, look to give back and
to choose what is right. Mr. Campbell then presented the Class of 2015, along with
Dr. William Riggs, Superintendent; Mr. Greg Roach, Assistant Principal; Mr. Fred
Granger, Class Sponsor; and Mrs. Sarah Weaver, Class Sponsor
Superintendent Dr. Bill Riggs began the closing ceremonies by recognizing the
graduates, and Mr. Campbell gave the final farewell. The choir closed the ceremonies
before the recessional with “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” by Peter Lutkin.
MVHS Seniors Awarded Over $5.7 million
Mt. Vernon High School Senior Honor Night proved to be a record-setting scholarship night for hard-working seniors. Over $5.7 million was distributed in scholarships
to over 25 community-service minded and academically gifted seniors.
There were awards in the following categories: Service and Citizenship, Community Scholarship Recognition, Academic Achievement, MVHS Department Awards,
and Senior Leadership. The grand total of scholarships awarded was $5,718,617.
One noteworthy accomplishment was when senior Grant Williams received a large
scholarship to West Point Academy. Another notable accolade was Brieann Staker
receiving the Eli Lilly Scholarship.
MVHS Top 15 Graduating Seniors
Mt. Vernon High School’s Top 15 Graduating Seniors are: Mark Alvarado, Allison
Campbell, Addison Eads, Rachel Furniss, Samantha Gawrys, Kayla Kollman, Jordan
Lilly, Caitlin Lindman, Kylie Lyons, Daniel Majors, Braxton Ratekin, Taran Sombke,
Bradley Strayer, Hannah Whitaker, and Grant Williams.
DAR Good Citizen
Each year, one senior is chosen as the DAR Good Citizen. This senior is chosen
based upon the qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism. Morgan
Hayse, daughter of Reggie and Sandy Hayse was selected as this year’s DAR Good
Citizen of Mt. Vernon High School .
11
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
Retirees Honored
Pictured left to right back row: Tina Wiseman, Rebecca Schneidt, Ruth Mills, Loretta Neal,
Dr. Bill Riggs; front row: Mike McCarty*, Jason Shelton*, Milo Gray, Shannon Walls*, Kellie
Freeman*, Tony May* [*school board]
The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) school board
honored the retirees at the last school board meeting on Monday, June 15, 2015.
The following is the list of retirees, and their years completed:
CERTIFIED
Fred Granger
Ruth Mills
Rebecca Schneidt
Ron Schoeff
Tina Wiseman
Dr. William Riggs
Teacher, Mt. Vernon HS
Teacher, McCordsville ES
Teacher, Mt. Comfort ES
Teacher, Fortville ES
Teacher, Fortville ES
Superintendent
Total Yrs.
Yrs. at MV
18
12
32
40
36
44
16
9
32
38
37
21
NON-CERTIFIED
Cyndie TrueLibrary Assistant at McCordsville ES
Terre Strough
Bus Driver
Patty Chalmers
Bus Driver
Loretta NealInstructional Assistant at Mt. Comfort ES
11 yrs
27 yrs
24 yrs
27 yrs
Tributes from the Schools
FRED GRANGER
Mr. Granger has been
a social studies teacher
and department chair
here at Mt. Vernon High
School since the beginning of the 1999-2000
school year. Mr. Granger steadily improved as a professional educator and
leader each year. Mr. Granger’s impact
in his content area, as well as our school,
was felt more and more each year. In addition to being a well-prepared veteran
teacher, Mr. Granger displayed leadership
outside the classroom as well. He helped
to mentor young faculty members and
was a coach for our academic teams.
Fred had a true passion for his teaching that goes beyond teaching content in
social studies. He also went far beyond
the school day to help prepare his stu12
dents for academic challenges today and
post-secondarily. Mr. Granger held study
sessions outside the school day as well
as preparing our students for advanced
placement testing.
We thank Mr. Granger for his years of
dedicated service to the students of Mt.
Vernon High School. There is no doubt
that he helped to better prepare hundreds, if not thousands of our students for
future educational endeavors. We wish
him all the best in his retirement. His
leadership and devotion to his students
will be missed.
BECKY SCHNEIDT
After 32 years at Mt.
Comfort Elementary
School, Becky Schneidt
is retiring. Becky did her
student teaching at Fort-
ville Elementary School under Mr. Jack
McKinney. Then, Governor Orr started
the Prime Time project to have smaller
class sizes in the lower elementary
schools. So, Becky was able to teach 1st
grade at Mt. Comfort Elementary School
with Mr. Phil Davis. Becky was asked,
“What is the BEST part of teaching?”
Becky replied, “The KIDS!--seeing them
learn and grow!” She has truly enjoyed
being a part of their education, as well as,
their ball games, plays, church activities,
graduations, and even weddings. Becky
feels blessed to have so many friends
throughout the Mt. Vernon Community
Schools!
RUTH MILLS
After graduating from
Manchester College, I
began my teaching career
at Beech Grove Community Schools and then
moved to Twin Lakes
School Corporation, teaching second
grade for two years. After my children
were born, I spent several years teaching
preschool at Castleton United Methodist Church. After receiving a Masters of
Education in Early childhood, I taught
kindergarten for six years at St. Luke’s
United Methodist Church. My ten years
of service in the first grade program at
McCordsville Elementary has given me
many opportunities to learn and provide
different educational experiences for the
students I served. My retirement plans
include travelling with my husband,
gardening and enjoying more time with
my family.
Tina Wiseman
On May 26, 2015
Fortville Elementary
School honored Tina
Wiseman during an evening gathering. We were
able to take a look back
and honor some of her most memorable
moments.
Tina Wiseman has dedicated 37 years
to education! 36 of these years have been
at Mt. Vernon School Corporation. She
has touched countless lives! Staff and
friends worked together to present the
“Many Talents of Tina!” Tina has been
involved in so many events at school:
Continued on page 13
JULY, 2015
RETIREES continued from page 12
Student Council, Veteran’s Day, Talent
Show, High Ability Coordinator, Choir,
and the Sing-Along are just a few of her
many activities! Needless to say, she will
be greatly missed. She will be leaving FES
with very big shoes to fill!
Ron Schoeff
Ron Schoeff has
dedicated 40 years to
education. 38 of the years
have been spent with Mt.
Vernon School Corporation. Ron, in his normal
fashion, chose to retire in a quiet manner and declined a formal party! He has
made a difference in so many lives. He is
known for his quiet calm manner! Even
though he is a man of few words, he has
been able to make connections with our
students. His calm demeanor will be
greatly missed!
HOBY
Representative
Chosen
Mt. Vernon Athletic Website Top in Nation
Out of 900 Varsity News Network
(VNN) websites in the nation, www.MaraudersAthletics.com has ranked #40 for
the month of April, with 20,420 page views.
In Indiana, www.MaraudersAthletics.com
ranked #7 for the month of April, beating
all county and Hoosier Heritage Conference
VNN websites, as well as larger schools such
as Westfield, North Central, and Bloomington North High School.
The high number of page views per month is important for several reasons:
• Most importantly, Marauder's athletic success is getting out into the community.
• The community is using MaraudersAthletics.com as a resource.
• Our sponsors are getting "bang for their buck" with ads on our website.
• The school will receive a larger amount of sponsorship funds back, which will
support the athletic pay-to-play subsidy programs for students. Additional sponsors
with high page views means more funds for the student's subsidy programs! To sponsor please contact [email protected], 317-339-6760.
Mt. Vernon Schools' Athletic Site is linked on the district site under the “Student
Life” tab, or on the High School or Middle School websites under “Athletics” tab.
Dear Mt. Vernon Family & Friends,
Maxwell Nugent, junior and son of
Shawn and Carla Nugent was chosen
to represent Mt. Vernon High School
at the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership
Seminar (HOBY) this summer at Butler
University from June 18-21, 2015. The
HOBY mission is to inspire and develop
our global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership,
service and innovation.
Hoosier Girls/Boys
State Delegates
Two Mt. Vernon High School students
will spend one week learning about government in prestigious annual programs.
Emily Fleming, junior and daughter of
Christopher and Kelly Fleming, will
attend Hoosier Girls State while Brendon Ware, junior and son of Brent and
Cynthia Ware will attend Hoosier Boys
State. These students were selected based
upon demonstrated abilities in leadership,
character and citizenship. The American
Legion Unit 391 and The American Legion Auxiliary of Fortville are the sponsors of our delegates.
One never knows what life will throw at you. When my son Parker was diagnosed
with stage 4 neuroblastoma, my life changed forever. My school family stepped in and
immediately started planning how they could help. As a Mt. Vernon graduate, I've
always known how special our corporation is. I’ve seen many changes good and bad.
I’ve heard and read negative comments during voting and referendums. I want people
to know that Mt. Vernon cares about its employees. They stepped up and allowed me
to stay home with my very sick son. His recovery was and is dependent on me being
at his bed side. Just yesterday a patient, who has been at Riley since November, was
crying for her mom. I was heartbroken for her. Parker has had 5 rounds of chemo,
surgery, 26 days spent at Riley for stem cell transplant, 20 radiation treatments, and
currently a very risky 6 month antibody therapy. I couldn't imagine not being with him.
I will never be able to repay my Mt. Vernon family for their support and generosity. When I tell people what they did for our family by allowing me to be home, they
usually cry. Parker is my hero and has inspired so many. He brings out the best in
others and makes you strive to be a better person.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Amy Adams, 5th Grade Teacher
Fortville Elementary School
13
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
MVHS FCCLA
Elects Officers
Mt. Vernon High School elected
the following students as officers for
the 2015-2016 school year. President
Mazie Bernard; First Vice-President/
Community Service Kourtney Hancock;
Vice-President of Public Relations/Secretary Maddison Hahn; Vice-President
of Membership/Finance & Competitive
Events Peyton Scott.
Marauder Athletes Honored
2014-15 Marauders of the Year
Mt. Vernon High School recognized 22 athletes as Marauders of the Year.
Boys Soccer
Volleyball
Football
Boys Cross Country
Boys Tennis
Wrestling
Boys Swimming
Girls Basektball
Girls Tennis
Baseball
Girls Track
Matthew Powell Girls Soccer
Jaclyn Bulmahn
Girls Golf Lucas Rice
Girls Cross Country
Christian Noble & Aaron Rush
Brendon Ware / Mark Alvarado
Peyton Wuerch
Girls Swimming
Cole Case
Boys Basketball
Sydney Shelton
Cheer
Cassie York
Softball
Zach Spears
Boys Golf Aubri Benbow
Boys Tack
Claudia Brown
Molly Yee
Morgan Hayse
Samantha Gawrys
Michael Ertel
Meg Schleter
Sadie Baugh
Oliver Mast
Kyle Forsythe
HHC Academic Award Winners
Mt. Vernon High School had 19 athletes receive Hoosier Heritage
Conference Academic medals during the 2014-2015 school year. Athletes must be Varsity Letter Winner in an HHC sport; be a sophomore,
junior, or senior; and be in the top 5% of their respective graduating
class in order to qualify for the HHC All Conference Academic team.
Our HHC Academic Team athletes are:
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a dynamic
and effective national student organization that helps young men and women
become leaders and address important
personal, family, work and societal issues
through Family and Consumer Sciences
Education as determined by the state
department of education. FCCLA has
200,000 members and more than 5,500
chapters from 50 state associations,
Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The
organization has involved more than 10
million people since its founding in 1945.
FCCLA: The Ultimate Leadership
Experience is unique among youth
organizations because its programs are
planned and run by members. It is the
only career and technical in-school
student organization with family as its
central focus. Participation in national
programs and chapter activities helps
members become strong leaders in their
families, careers and communities. View
information about FCCLA at www.fcclainc.org or the Mt. Vernon High School
Facebook page.
14
Boys’ Cross Country Aaron Rush
Girls’ Cross Country Samantha Gawrys Football
Mitch McCarthy
Girls Soccer
Jordan Lilly
Boys Soccer
Braxton Ratekin Girls Golf
Molly Yee
Boys Tennis
Grant Williams Volleyball
Mary Grace Ertel Girls Basketball
Megan Gawrys
Boys Basketball
Matthew HaysCheer
Lily Erlewein
Boys Swimming
Bryce Gray
Girls Swimming
Samantha Gawrys
Wrestling
Drake Tackett Girls Tennis
Addison Eads,
Cassie York
Boys Track
Aaron Rush, Brian Bozymski, Braxton Ratekin
Girls Track
Meg Schleter
Softball
Caitlin Lindman,
Kylie Lyons
Track and Field
At the Hancock County Track meet, Aaron Rush broke the 31 year old county
1600 meter record. The old record was by Mike Mundy in 4:24 plus set in 1984,
and the new record is 4:21 plus in a meet won by Mt. Vernon.
At the Mt. Vernon Sectional Track and Field meet Christian Noble broke Jeff
Wheeler's 30 year old record in the 3200. Jeff had run a 9:19 plus back then
on an IUPUI sun
baked track and
Christian lowered
that to 9:15 plus
and cool night at
MV. Wheeler is a
former state Cross
Country champion and went on to
run at IU. Noble
is a Junior and will
return next year
with higher expectations.
JULY, 2015
MS Rewards Readers with Messy “Read for Your Lives” Course
Approximately 80 sixth and seventh graders who read one million words this
school year were challenged with a messy, muddy, and exciting obstacle course.
The cross country trail behind Mt. Vernon High School and Fortville Elementary
School was turned into a 10-station “Read for Your Lives” challenge course for the
afternoon. Dana Hochstedler, Mt. Vernon Middle School Media Specialist, along
with Tanya Lott, Media Assistant, kept track of students’ word counts through the
year and also spent many hours organizing the challenge course for the students.
Approximately 40 sixth graders and 40 seventh graders were eligible to participate in the “Read for Your Lives” course by reading one million words. The
students were divided up into teams of three. One team member completed the
station’s task while being timed. The team with the most points at the end wins.
To make the day even more fun and messier, random students hid in the woods
with “flour bombs” to throw at the team. They also sprayed silly string at them
and tried to take the team’s flags tied around their waists. If the team made it
through the course with their flags they received additional points.
There were also three “Riddlers” stationed throughout the course that were
staffed by members of the Mt. Vernon High School Education Professions class.
A few middle school students were photographers for the day, and a high school
student videotaped the activities and will be creating a video.
Some of the messier highlights the students enjoyed included bobbing for
brussel sprouts, diving for pennies on a muddy tarp, throwing cheese puffs at a
mound of shaving cream on the teammate’s head, and an eating challenge with
less than desirable food items.
The 10 stations included:
1. Knock ‘em Down – knock down three two-liters with a
6. Face the Cookie – lean head back, place a cookie on the
softball
forehead and use only the face to move the cookie to mouth
2. Bobbing for Sprouts – bob for five brussel sprouts in a tub
7. Heavenly or Otherwise – choose one of four covered plates
of water using only teeth
and eat whatever is on the plate (Choices throughout the
3. Muddy Buddy – search for pennies on a tarp of mud using
afternoon included: sardines in hot sauce, smoked oysters,
hands (extra point for faces in the mud)
flavored larvae, cheddar cheese or sour cream/onions4. Shoot ‘em Up – knock over 10 plastic cups with a Nerf
flavored crickets, or candied ants.)
gun
8. This is Corny – throw wet sponges at the corn hole
9. Are You Sure? – eat a strawberry infused with a random,
5. Stick to It – one team member had a pile of shaving cream
non-desirable sauce (wasabi, srirachi sauce or mustard)
on their head and teammate throws cheese puffs at it
10.Breakfast Scramble – complete a cereal box puzzle
trying to get all 10 cheese puffs to stick
The Assistant Principal, Ben Williams, was a great sport by voluntarily trying most of the challenges. He made some sour faces
after trying two different strawberries. He also took a turn at the other food station, eating both of the crickets while commenting
that he recommended the salty treat and they were probably full of protein. He gave “Bobbing for Brussel Sprouts” a valiant try
as well.
The team winners of the day were Aden Cappelletti, Jack Greer and Gavin Schug (6th Grade Team 3) and Dominic Mellentine,
Luke Rappe and Aiden Alford (7th Grade Team 2).
Hochstedler spent many hours organizing the challenge course and is brainstorming different rewards for next year. Hochstedler
is hoping to receive a grant she submitted to the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation which would reward the top 30 students who
read the most. If the grant is funded, students will get to pick out a book for the school library at Barnes & Noble and enjoy the
afternoon at the bookstore.
MCE Walk-A-Thon Raises Nearly $5K for Riley & Reading Teacher
Mt. Comfort Elementary raised nearly $5,000 at their annual Walk-a-thon on April 24, sponsored by the parent teacher
organization (PTO). Half of the funds will go to Riley Children's Hospital and half will support hiring a reading interventionist.
Principal Heather Whitaker shared that money is continuing to come in to support Riley Children's Hospital and the
school's reading interventionist position. The reading interventionist position focuses on the response-to-intervention (known
as Rti) with at-risk students in all grades. All students in 3rd grade are required to pass the IREAD-3 program and this position is critical in impacting positive results for this state test.
15
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
MV Relay for Life
Teaches Character & Raises $32K+
Mt. Vernon Schools include character and good citizenship in the life lessons learned
at school. Giving back to the community is not just verbally taught but is learned
by example. Ashley Schenck, Event Lead for the Mt. Vernon Relay for Life and 5th
grade teacher at McCordsville Elementary School, estimated that approximately 75%
of the recent Relay for Life participants were Mt. Vernon staff, students, alumni or
Mt. Vernon families.
Challenging weather on May 16 didn’t sway the 21 Relay for Life teams and over
300 people as they raised $32,700 for the American Cancer Society. The event was
held at Mt. Vernon Middle School and honored survivors, those who lost their lives to
cancer, people currently battling cancer, caregivers and everyone that cancer affects.
Schenck said funds are still coming in to date at www.relayforlife.org/mountvernonin.
Mt. Vernon students, families, staff and alumni stayed strong through the challenging wet weather as someone from each team walked at all times to cover the
24-hour span. One Mt. Vernon student, Elizabeth May, chose to walk all 24 hours
and succeeded without injury. There were three new Mt. Vernon teams this year; one
was made up of some former/current school board members and alumni. The other
two new teams were Mt. Vernon families who had just lost a loved one due to cancer.
There were 18 teams that formed within the last four years.
Schenck started her “Shut it Down” team at the Relay for Life of Lawrence approximately 10 years ago, but due to size limitations, she and another team were asked
to start a Relay in the Mt. Vernon area. Originally it was called Relay for Life of Geist,
then McCordsville/Fortville, and is now Relay for Life of Mt. Vernon.
The Relay for Life of Mt. Vernon has hit goals and won awards at the “Fall Summit”
that American Cancer Society hosts. They are the rising star of Relay’s in Indiana and
Schenck says they are frequently complimented on how well their leadership team
works together.
The day was full of activities to keep everyone involved with the day. Opening
Ceremonies began at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, followed by a car show that
had over 20 cars. A kids carnival, DJ, tug of war, silent auction, the always touching
Luminaria Ceremony, and a church service were a few of the festivities the day offered.
Food vendors were available for participants to enjoy. A group of seniors came out
to walk; some even played football or baseball in the center of the track. The Fortville
Fire Department walked the Luminaria Ceremony lap with full gear.
Schenck, who pours hours into managing the event, states “I feel like cancer is
everywhere and I’m sick and tired of hearing about it. Relay is my way of dealing with
that sick and tired feeling, and I feel like I’m helping end it. I know each year we are
getting closer to a cure and I sure hope it’s a word my own kids never have to hear.”
Marauder pride was evident at the busy Relay for Life event. Attendees felt a sense
of support, community pride, and that they were making a difference in people’s lives.
16
Reading Adventure
Summer Packs for
Grade K-2
The summer would not be summer
without relaxation and fun activities that
don’t include assessments. To continue
the love of “just for fun” reading, our
teachers looked for a fun way to support summer reading. Reading Rockets
developed a set of reading adventure
packs to encourage hands-on fun and
learning centered around paired fiction
and nonfiction books.
This year, Fortville Elementary School
took advantage of these themed packs
for our Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd Grade
students. “Parents who read to their children every day and talk about what they
are reading together promote a joy of
reading and literacy achievement,” says
the Reading Rockets website. Our reading adventure summer packs included a
theme-based fiction or nonfiction book
and related interactive activities (with all
of the supplies needed) that kids share
with their family. Each child took home
a tote bag with the adventure program.
The other paired book not supplied is at
our Fortville Library, where the staff has
gathered even more resources to go along
with our themes. We look forward to the
feedback from these adventure bags!
MVHS Band Nearly
Perfect at ISSMA
The MVHS
band earned
g o l d ra t i n g s
from all three
performance
judges and
from the sightreading judge at the Indiana State School
Music Association (ISSMA) High School
Organizational Festival on Saturday,
April 18. The band earned the “With
Distinction” award for the first time in
high school history. The “With Distinction” award is only attainable by receiving
near-perfect scores from all four judges.
Two of the four judges gave MVHS band
only a half-point away from a perfect
score, and the sight-reading judge scored
one point away from a perfect score.
JULY, 2015
MV News Briefs
Articles about exciting happenings around Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation can be found on the corporation
website: www.mvcsc.k12.in.us/News. Check it out to learn more about the stories found on these newsletter pages!
MVHS Ranked #21 in State
The U.S. News
& World Report
rated Mt. Vernon High School
(MVHS) as #21
in the state out
of 413 public
schools, and #1,613 in the nation out
of 21,150 public schools. The Marauders were given a silver award. Only
33% of the schools received either a
gold, silver, or bronze award. MVHS
was the highest ranked high school in
the county.
MVHS students ranked high on the
college readiness index with a 29.6.
Part of the criteria factored that 50%
of students were tested in Advanced
Placement (AP) courses, and 23%
passed AP exams. MVHS also scored
high in Algebra Proficiency with 2.7,
referencing that 70% of students were
proficient. English also scored high
with a 2.8 and 83% proficient.
Private schools are frequently not
required to take statewide accountability tests, so were not included.
According to the U.S. News Best
High Schools methodology, a Best
High School is one that succeeds at
the following steps:
Step 1: Attains performance levels
that exceed statistical expectations
given the school’s relative level of
student poverty, as measured by state
accountability test scores for all the
school’s students in the core subjects
of reading and math.
Step 2: Achieves proficiency rates
on state tests for its least advantaged
student groups that exceed state averages.
Step 3: Prepares its students for college, as measured by student participation in and performance on AP exams
or International Baccalaureate exams.
In comparison with other states,
Indiana received the 19th highest percentage of gold and silver awards out of
the 50 states and District of Columbia.
Kindergarten Celebrates
Mother's Day with Tea Parties
Fortville Elementary School, Mt.
Comfort Elementary School, and McCordsville Elementary Kindergartens
hosted Mother’s Day Tea Parties. Parents
came in to enjoy tea, punch, cookies and
other festivities with their children.
MES & FES Principals
Accepted to IPLI Program
Both Stephanie Miller, Principal of
McCordsville Elementary and Heather
Noesges, Principal of Fortville Elementary
have been accepted into the Indiana Principal Leadership Institute (IPLI) program.
The IPLI program is an intensive, twoyear program that requires a commitment
by the principals and the school district.
IPLI was designed to address the professional needs of Indiana principals with an
emphasis on student success.
In year one, the focus is on the principal and increasing a principal’s capacity
to address the current needs of his/her
school, such as his or her own abilities to
effect change through teacher evaluation
models, student performance, community
involvement, and/or shaping a strong
school culture. Principals will collect data
from their staff about their leadership
skills and the culture of the school. With
this information, principals identify
key leadership skills to address using
an action research model. A Personal
Improvement Plan will be developed
and continually revised throughout
the two-year institute. Near the midpoint of the first year, discussions will
begin to drift toward building-level
dynamics. While the focus will never
be completely away from the individual
principal, the interaction of personal
and organizational capacities and goals
will be addressed.
In year two, principals are asked
to select two teachers to join them in
an intensive study of their schools using their current school improvement
planning process and the Marzano
High Reliability Schools Model. In addition to utilizing existing data from
their schools, these leadership teams
will collect additional data and study
research-based practices to aid in the
development of their School Improvement Plans.
Additional benefits include seminars featuring nationally-recognized
school leaders; access to resources;
membership in the Indiana Association of School Principals; registration
for the Indiana Association of School
Principals Fall Conference; registration
for the Ed Leaders Network; opportunity to enroll in 12 university credits
toward the Indiana State University
Educational Specialist’s program at a
significantly reduced tuition rate; and
45 Professional Growth Plan (PGP)
points for each year of participation.
In spring of 2015, Scott Shipley,
Principal of Mt. Vernon Middle School,
and Heather Whitaker, Principal of Mt.
Comfort Elementary, graduated from
the IPLI Institute. Heather Whitaker
was also selected to be an IPLI mentor.
NHS Raises $8,246.12
for Riley Hospital
The National Honor Society at Mt.
Vernon High School raised $8,246.12
Continued on page 18
17
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
MV NEWS continued from page 17
between “Penny Wars” and the “Dance
Marathon” which will benefit Riley
Hospital’s Magic Castle Cart Program
and the Palliative Care Program.
For the “Penny Wars” campaign,
National Honor Society members collected change at lunch. The combined
total for Penny Wars was $5,303.
The “Dance Marathon” at Mt. Vernon High School raised $2,943.12.
Large inflatable obstacle courses, tattoos, dancing, cake walk and other
games were some of the activities. All
students stood in honor of the Riley
patients who cannot.
Pacers Cares
Read to MCE Students
Bottom – Social Studies Academic
Team: K. Gatewood, G. Hess, Ms.
Thomas, B. Ahonen, J. Thrasher, R.
Thornton, M. Owen
Recognitions given include: Academic
Super Bowl Team Awards, Outstanding
Service Award for National Junior Honor
Society, Student Council Awards, Talent
Show Winners, Three-Sport Athletes,
Outstanding Athletes, Honor Roll Recipients, Outstanding Choir Students,
Outstanding Band Students, Outstanding
Wellness, Digital Tools, Art, Language,
Math, Science and Social Studies Students, Outstanding Academic Student,
Citizenship Award, Outstanding Attendance and Perfect Attendance.
MS Student Council Is
“Honor Council” for 11th Time
McCordsville Elementary students
had a special visit from Boomer and the
Pacers Cares organization. A former
Pacer, policeman and friends from the
IN State Teachers Association (ISTA)
spent time reading to MCE students.
Darnell Hillman, former Pacer player,
took time out to read an elementary
book to the students. A few of the
other special readers were Brad Carlson, Pacers; Richie Smith, Pacers Cares
Organization; Keith Gambill, ISTA;
and Callie Marksbary, ISTA. MCE is
thankful for their time stressing the
importance of reading to the students.
8th Grade Promotion Ceremony
The Mt. Vernon Middle School’s
8th Grade Awards and Promotion
Ceremony proved to be full of hopes,
dreams and many celebrations. Entertainment was provided by the band
and choir.
18
Mt. Vernon Middle School was recently named an “Honor Council” for
the 11th straight year by the Indiana
Association of Student Councils. One
demonstration of successful leadership
was raising $1,952 for Riley Hospital
through organizing Riley Days. Stacy
Griner and Kittie Masters are the teachers who sponsor the student council.
Riley Days encompassed fun daily
activities for the students to motivate
donations to Riley Hospital. Some activities included: PJ Day, Beach Day, Duct
Tape Day, Jersey Day & Wear Red for
Riley Day. Staff participated in these
activities as well.
MS Science & Soc. St.
Ranked 4th, 8th in State
After receiving first place in a regional
competition, Mt. Vernon Middle School
Science and Social Studies Academic
Teams placed 4th and 8th, respectively,
in the state competition.
Mt. Vernon Middle School competes
in Class 1 at the state level due to school
size. There are approximately 75 schools
in Class 1. The regional competition blue
ribbon winners are:
Top – Science Academic Team: G. Blankenship, T. Fleming, S. Godwin, I. Garza,
H. Watson, R. Strantz, J. Shepard, V. Chen
MVHS Education Professions
Students Pass National Exam
Two students from Mt. Vernon
High School achieved their Pre-Professional Certification in Education Fundamentals from the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences’
organization. This accomplishment
will give the students a head start in
their pursuit of a career in education.
The following students received
their Career & Technical Education
Pre-Professional Certification from the
AAFCS in Education Fundamentals:
Gabrielle Morris (will be attending
IUPUI) and Danielle Nuckols (will
be attending Franklin College). The
students plan on pursuing education
after high school.
Students interested in pursuing
education as a major in college can get
a jump start by enrolling in the Education Professions class at Mt. Vernon
High School. During the 2015-2016
school year students will also have
the opportunity to receive dual credit
with IVY Tech upon certification in the
class and meeting test score standards
established by IVY Tech.
JULY, 2015
Mt. Vernon Commuity School Corportation | STATEMENTS OF COMPLIANCE
CIVIL RIGHTS ASSURANCE OF
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is committed to equal opportunity and
does not discriminate on the basis of age, color,
race, religion, sex, handicapping condition,
or national origin including limited English
proficiency, in any employment opportunity.
In addition, all courses, student activities,
educational services, programs, instruction,
and facilities will not be denied to anyone in
the school corporation on the basis of race,
color, sex, handicapping condition, or national
origin including limited English proficiency.
For further information, clarification, or
complaint, please contact Dr. Shane Robbins,
Superintendent of Schools, 1776 W. State Rd
234, Fortville, IN 46040, 317-485-3100.
Title IX Coordinator:
Mr. Mike Horton, Assistant Superintendent
1776 W. State Rd 234
Fortville, IN 46040, 317-485-3100
Title VI Coordinator:
Mr. Mike Horton, Assistant Superintendent
(same address & phone)
504 Coordinator:
Mr. Mike Horton, Assistant Superintendent
(same address & phone)
Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator:
Mr. Mike Horton, Assistant Superintendent
(same address & phone)
ADA COMPLIANCE
NOTICE POLICY STATEMENT
It is the policy of the Mt. Vernon Community
School Corporation not to exclude qualified
individuals with disabilities from participation
in or benefiting from the services, programs,
or activities of the school corporation. It is
also the policy of this school corporation not
to discriminate against a qualified individual
with a disability in its job application procedures; the hiring, advancement or discharge
of employees; employee compensation; job
training, conditions and privileges or employment. It is the intention of this school
corporation to comply with all applicable
requirements of the American With Disabilities Act (ADA).
Members of the public, individuals with disabilities and groups representing individuals
with disabilities, are encouraged to submit
suggestions to school corporation officials
on how the Mt. Vernon Community School
Corporation might better meet the needs of
individuals with disabilities pursuant to this
stated policy.
RIGHTS AND PROTECTIONS THE
ADA AFFORDS DISABLED PERSONS
Any individual who believes he/she has
received treatment inconsistent with the
policies set forth above or any other requirement of the ADA may take any or all of the
following steps:
1.Contact Mr. Mike Horton, designated
school corporation ADA coordinator, at
317-485-3100, or stop by his office at 1776
W. State Road 234, Fortville, IN 46040,
to obtain additional information about
the school corporation program, service,
activity, or employment practice that is
the basis for concern. The ADA coordinator will also provide information on how
the corporation is attempting to meet the
requirements of the ADA.
2.File a grievance with the ADA coordinator. The ADA coordinator will provide
information on the school corporation’s
procedure for handling complaints based
upon ADA rules and regulations.
3.Appeals of decisions or other actions of
the ADA coordinator are permitted under the grievance procedures. If the ADA
coordinator does not adequately respond
to a grievance to the complainant’s satisfaction, the grievance will be forwarded to
the school corporation’s ADA grievance
committee for review and for appropriate
action. Decisions of the grievance committee may be appealed to the Board of School
Trustees of the Mt. Vernon Community
School Corporation.
4.Individuals also have the right to initiate private lawsuits against the school corporation
as a means for compelling school compliance
with the requirements of the ADA.
5.An individual may file a complaint with the
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Civil
Rights alleging discrimination in violation of
the ADA requirements. An individual may
file a complaint alleging a violation of the
ADA employment regulations with the Equal
Employment Opportunity Commission.
taining materials in our buildings, and these
materials are so contained that they cause no
health hazard to the occupants.
*ASBESTOS INSPECTION NOTICE
The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation has compiled with the AHERA
regulations through the completion of the
Inspection and Management Plan for asbestos.
The report has been submitted to the E.P.A.
designee, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. The report is on file
in the Administration Building and available
without restriction to the public for inspection during normal business hours. It should
be noted that no friable asbestos was found
in any of the Mt. Vernon buildings during this
inspection. The inspection revealed that there
is a relatively small amount of asbestos con-
The harassment of a staff member or student
of this Corporation is strictly forbidden. Any
student, staff member, or agent of the Board
who is found to have harassed a staff member,
student, or other employee of this Corporation will be subject to discipline in accordance
with law and/or the terms of any applicable
collective bargaining agreement.
Requests to view the management plan
should be made at least one working day in
advance by contacting Mr. Mike Horton, Assistant Superintendent, at 485-3100. It has
been, and continues to be, the policy of this
Corporation to keep the public informed
of all matters that pertain to the safety and
general health of our students, faculty, and
visitors in our schools.
Reminder to Parents
YOUR RIGHTS TO PRIVACY
The law guarantees your family rights to
privacy in school matters. Early in the school
year notify the principal if you do not want
your child’s photo or name to appear in
school publications. This includes newsletters, school directories, honor rolls or awards
lists, graduation rosters, athletic program,
website, school social media, etc. See student
handbook for details.
SEXUAL AND OTHER
FORMS OF HARASSMENT
The School Board recognizes that staff members and students have the right to work and
learn in an environment untainted by sexual
or other forms of harassment or discrimination. Offensive conduct which has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with
work or learning performance or creating an
intimidating, hostile, discriminatory, or offensive environment disrupts the educational
process and impedes the legitimate pedagogical concerns of the Corporation.
Sexual harassment includes all unwelcome
sexual advances, requests for sexual favors,
and verbal or physical contacts of a sexual
nature. Other prohibited conduct includes
that which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, discriminatory,
or offensive educational environment on the
basis of gender, religion, race, color, ethnicity,
age, and/or handicapping condition.
Any student or employee of the Corporation
who believes he or she has been the subject
of sexual or other forms of harassment should
promptly report the matter to Dr. Shane Robbins, Superintendent, 1776 West State Road
234, Fortville, Indiana 46040 for investigation
and appropriate action.
19
THE MT. VERNON MESSENGER
Upcoming Events
JULY
15...................................... New Student Registration, MVHS
20...................... New Student Registration, MCES,MES, FES
20..........................................School Board Meeting, 7:00 PM
21............................ New Student Registration, MVMS, 8GA
22...................................... New Student Registration, MVHS
23..................Freshman Kick-Off, 9:00 AM-2:00 PM, MVHS
27..............6th-7th schedule pick up, 5:00-7:00 p.m., MVMS
28....................................................New Teacher Orientation
29.................................................Back to School Night, MES
29.................................................. Back to School Night, FES
29...................... Back to School Night, 6:00-7:30 PM, MCES
29.....................................Teacher Orientation and In-Service
30.................................. School Begins/Full Day for Students
AUGUST
3...................Corp. Improvement Council Meeting, 7:00 PM,
MVCSC Administration
3-21................................................................ NWEA Testing
5.......................... 6th-7th Gr. Open House, 6:00 PM, MVMS
12................................................Senior Parent Night, MVHS
12........................................All Student Open House, MVHS
14..............................PTO After School Dance, MVMS/8GA
14..................................................................Picture Day, FES
17......................................... 6th-7th Gr. Picture Day, MVMS
17..........................................School Board Meeting, 7:00 PM
19-26............................................ Coupon Book Sale, MCES
SEPTEMBER
1....................... Skating Party @ Roller cave, 6:00 PM, MCES
2.................................................................. Picture Day, MES
7........................................................... Labor Day, No School
8...................Corp. Improvement Council Meeting, 7:00 PM,
MVCSC Administration
9............................................................... Picture Day, MCES
10, 11................................Senior Graduation Orders, MVHS
11................................................................ Picture Day, 8GA
18...................................... After School Dance, MVMS/8GA
21-25.................................................................StarLab, MES
21..........................................School Board Meeting, 7:00 PM
26.............................................. 5K/1 Mile Run/Walk, MVEF
26.............................. PTO Fall Festival, 4:00-8:00PM, MCES
OCTOBER
1.....................3rd grade to Benjamin Harrison House, MCES
2..........................................1st grade to Mounds Park, MCES
2..................................................... End of first grading period
3-18............................................ Intersession #1, No School*
5-9...................................................... Possible Make-up Days
19..........................................School Board Meeting, 7:00 PM
19...................................................................School Resumes
22....... Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences —No School
22..........................................Teacher In-Service —No School
23-30................................. Cookie Dough/Cup Sales, MCES
27.................... Skating Party @ Roller Cave, 6:00 PM, MCES
28.......................................................... Picture Retakes, MES
29................... PTO Fundraiser @ Buffalo Wild Wings, MCES
30...........................................................Mix it up day, MCES
NOVEMBER
2...................Corp. Improvement Council Meeting, 7:00 PM,
MVCSC Administration
11...................................................... Veteran’s Day Programs
13...................................... After School Dance, MVMS/8GA
14-15............................ IBA All-Region Honor Band, MVMS
16..........................................School Board Meeting, 7:00 PM
20....................................... PTO Family Movie Night, MCES
26-27..................................... Thanksgiving Break, No School
DECEMBER
1-18.................................................... Winter NWEA Testing
8............................. Skating Party @ Roller Cave 6:00, MCES
7...................Corp. Improvement Council Meeting, 7:00 PM,
MVCSC Administration
11...................................................PTO Holiday Hop, MCES
18.............................................. End of second grading period
19-Jan. 3...................................... Intersession #2, No School
21..........................................School Board Meeting, 7:00 PM
SECOND SEMESTER BREAKS
Jan. 4..............................................................School Resumes
Jan. 18...................Martin Luther King, Jr. Day—No School*
Feb. 15........................................ Presidents’ Day-No School*
Mar. 11..................... End of Third Grading Period (48 days)
Mar. 12-27............................. Intersession #3 —No School*
Mar. 14-18......................................... Possible Make-up Days
Mar. 28...........................................................School Resumes
May 26.................................Last Day for Students (43 days)
May 27.................................................. Last Day for Teachers
May 30.........................................Memorial Day—No School
* no school unless make-up days required
Watch for the next Mt. Vernon Messenger in December.
A publication of the
Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation
1776 W. St. Rd. 234, Fortville, IN 46040
317-485-3100 • 317-485-3113 (Fax)
www.mvcsc.k12.in.us
Dr. Bill Riggs.................... Superintendent
Mr. Mike Horton..... Asst. Superintendent
Board of School Trustees
Mr. Tony May ..........................President
Mr. Mike McCarty........1st Vice President
Mrs. Kellie Freeman.. 2nd Vice President
Mr. Jason Shelton....................... Secretary
Mrs. Shannon Walls...........Asst. Secretary
Visit our website www.mvcsc.k12.in.us
for a variety of school information and news to stay in-the-know!
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