school
review
Special Feature:
Top 25 Graduates in the
Class of 2009
the official publication of the
Center Grove Community School Corporation
inside:
Back to School Anticipation
From the Superintendent 2
What’s New for 2009-10
Technology Update 3
Center Grove Alternative Academy 3
The Class of 2009
Top 25 Graduates 4
Scholarships Awarded 6
Around the District
Summer Study Tour in China 7
PE Summer Institute 7
Community Technology Classes 7
Riley Caring & Sharing Goal Met 7
NASC Update 7
AIC Essay Winner 7
August 16 Vocal Recital 7
CGHS Spring Sports
Two more State Champs 8
Back to School 2009
from the superintendent
back to school with anticipation
Dr. Steven Stephanoff,
Superintendent
“I encourage
you to get
involved with
Center Grove
Schools.
If you have
not yet
volunteered
in your child’s
school or on
one of our
community
committees,
come aboard
today!
Remember
to check
the CGCSC
websites
often for
opportunities
to volunteer.”
School Review
“Back to school” is one of my
favorite times of the year. I consider it
a great benefit of choosing a career in
education. And never has there been
a more exciting time or place to be
headed back to school than right now
at Center Grove!
It’s true that we will be hardpressed to surpass the district, teacher,
school, and student academic and
athletic achievements of last year.
2008-09 was a tremendous year that
will long be celebrated as a historic
highlight for Center Grove.
The financial challenges that
we, along with and other school
corporations in Indiana, face will
require significant time and attention.
Even though budget shortfalls have
resulted in reducing jobs in every
area, we were fortunate in that Center
Grove was not required to lay off even
one teacher. The necessary reductions
were accomplished through natural
attrition and re-assignment.
While the combination of high
expectations and financial challenges
may seem a bit daunting, we enter
2009-10 with great anticipation! What
is so exciting about heading back to
school at Center Grove? Instructional
coaches are now in each elementary
and middle school; the second
grade technology grant program at
North Grove; the Early College at
Center Grove gets underway; and the
Strategic Planning Committee will
be preparing for our very promising
future! We continue to make progress
toward our initiatives, including
literacy, technology, and academics, as
well as the CGHS alternative academy,
and strategic planning.
Literacy Initiative
We will have Instructional Coaches
in every elementary and middle
school to support our teachers and
assist with instruction. These coaches,
paid through grants and stimulus
funds, will identify and introduce
best instructional practices to adapt
to different types of learning within
the classroom. They will conduct
assessments for grades K-8 in the
fall, winter and spring. This data will
then be analyzed and instruction
adjusted. An important progression
that will be facilitated by our
instructional coaches is that they will
be implementing readers and writers
workshops to improve these skills
among elementary and middle school
students.
We will also offer the Middle
School alternative program for
students whose behavior is negatively
impacting their academic success.
Kelly Bowser, a qualified special
education teacher, will lead the
program, which will utilize technology
to engage the students in instruction,
and work to improve the students’
behavior.
Technology Initiative
The second grade one-to-one
technology grant project continues
at North Grove. The students are
using HP Mininote computers funded
through the Indiana Department of
Education. By providing “hands-on”
technology activities, every student in
this project will be actively engaged
in his/her own learning. Students'
reading comprehension, reading
fluency, writing, and mathematical
computation will be improved by
integrating the 1:1 technology into
daily instruction. Participating
teachers include Jillian Robertson,
Kara Siner, and Letha Hines.
Be sure to see the “Technology
Update” on page two for information
on the multimedia classroom project
and the newest computer lab, the
NovaNet lab, at CGHS.
Academic Initiative
The Early College at Center Grove,
our first small learning community,
will roll-out at CGHS. Every EC
student will be issued a laptop
computer during registration. During
this inaugural year, Early College
is offered to 9th, 10th, 11th grade
students. When they graduate, they
will have had the opportunity to
earn enough credits for a two-year
associate’s degree. New Tech High
and other SLC’s continue in the
planning phase, preparing for roll-out
over the next few years.
Other academic initiatives continue
as well, including high ability and
curriculum mapping. An important
element of curriculum mapping is
to ensure that students complete the
necessary classes prior to taking the
PSAT during their sophomore and
junior years. An added benefit is an
increase in National Merit Scholars.
Center Grove Alternative Academy
Formerly CARE (Creating
Alternative Redirected Education), the
Center Grove Alternative Academy
provides a fresh alternative for
students on their educational path
towards a Center Grove High School
Diploma. Thirty-four students
graduated from the program in
December and May, with 21 more
graduating from night school. This
year, Academy students are creating
a local food pantry as part of the
ongoing community service program.
For more information about the CG
Alternative Academy, please see the
CGHS website.
Strategic Planning
Headed by educational consultant
Dr. Emmett Lippe, a committee of
approximately 80 community, school,
and board members will provide
strategic planning for Center Grove.
The committee will review all
aspects of the schools, and provide
planning for student achievement,
instruction, resources, human
resources, leadership, community
involvement, and referendums for
construction projects and the general
fund. Committee meetings will be
held in August, with a report to the
school board by September 21, 2009.
Community Involvment
Our caring and active community
plays a vital role in the ongoing
success of Center Grove Schools.
Thank you for being informed
and involved. If you have not yet
volunteered in your child’s school or
on a committee, come aboard today!
Remember to check the website
often for volunteer opportunities,
and notices of progress, events, and
accomplishments. We are looking
forward to another terrific year during
this very exciting time to be at Center
Grove!
Page 2
julie bohnenkamp
technology update
Center Grove Community School Corporation continued this summer to
expand the "multimedia classroom" project. Work is underway to install an
additional 62 multimedia classrooms across the district by the onset of the school
year. This is the third year of installations with a compiled total of 190 completed
multimedia classrooms.
The first 1:1 laptop initiative is launching this fall semester for the new
small learning community, Early College at Center Grove
High School. All 208 students
in the program will receive
an HP Mininote netbook for
accessing online content 24/7. This particular project will
provide students with exciting
"cutting-edge" technology by
which they will access a virtual desktop from their computer. The virtual desktop by VMWARE allows for students to access
the Center Grove virtual servers for use on campus and at home. Since this desktop "travels" with them, the students will have all of the school
software available to them at home. Teachers will be delivering enhancements to
their courses via CGCSC’s online course management system, Epsilen.
The Center Grove Technology Department
understands the importance of "going
green." The newest computer lab at CGHS,
the NovaNet Lab for online course credit
recovery, will incorporate emerging
technology using the "jackpc" which looks
like an electrical faceplate. This low-cost
yet reliable computer cuts electrical
costs 50 percent by capitalizing
on "power over Ethernet.” Not only will this technology
save on operating costs, but it
provides a streamlined look for
the computer lab.
“All students inrolled in the Early College at Center Grove will receive an HP Mininote netbook.”
center grove alternative academy
the students will benefit from the alternative setting. Those who enroll attend
CARE (Creating Alternative Redirected Education) has a new name! Because
either the morning session from 7:35 until 11:00 a.m. or the afternoon session
students were working toward a diploma from Center Grove High School,
from 11:45 a.m. until 2:50 p.m. A new component this fall is the alternative to
Director Beth Bryant felt that the organization should have Center Grove in
expulsion session, from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m. All students utilize the web based
the name. The new name in alternative education is Center Grove Alternative
Learning Springs curriculum which follows standards mandated by the state.
Academy.
Because they only attend school for half of the day, “Some of the students also
Students who attend the academy are typically seniors who have not been
participate in C-9,” explained Bryant. “If not, they must work a part-time job. It’s
successful in the traditional school setting. They may be behind on credits,
part of giving every student an opportunity to become a success. It is critical that
have personal or academic issues, or poor attendance. CG Alternative Academy
they receive a high school diploma, and I want to saturate them with resources to
offers a different approach, including smaller class size, increased one-on-one
continue their education beyond high school.”
opportunities, and students work at their own pace to complete on-line classes.
Graduation celebrations are held at the end of each semester, with 13 graduates
Bryant said, “It’s all about empowerment. We show them exactly what they need
in December of 2008, and 21 in May of 2009. Another 21 students graduated
to do. They can tailor their approach academically to ensure their success.”
from the night school classes, a volunteer effort by Bryant and former CGHS
Bryant encourages the students to complete the subjects they dislike first.
Assistant Principal, Tim Hudson,
She reminds them, “You want
utilizing the on-line curriculum.
to overcome your barriers first,
Bryant credits Superintendent Dr.
and then the rest will fall into
Steven Stephanoff as being a “huge”
place.” The goal of the academy
supporter of the CG Alternative
is to ensure the students have
Academy. “We have fifth year seniors
opportunities to develop life
who are returning, and I commend
skills, in addition to achieving
them for that; for not giving up. This
their diplomas.
is a testament to how Dr. Stephanoff
Special guests speak weekly
feels about our students and making
on such subjects as investing,
sure they have a chance to get their
law enforcement, team building,
high school diploma. Dr. Stephanoff
and youth law. They also
is our biggest cheerleader! He
discuss how to enter into a lease,
believes that all students deserve a
manage credit scores, balance a
connection in education, even if they
checkbook, and create a budget.
can’t connect in the traditional sense.
Job skills are stressed, including
He’s been a huge supporter.”
completing applications,
Becoming quite animated, Bryant
constructing resumes, and
tells about the night school program.
interview skills, as well as
“We save kids. That’s a passion that
military service.
The CARE Class of May, 2009: Front Row-Zach Tuttle, Ashley Reid, Zack Mann, John Laun,
Dr. Stephanoff has, saving kids. It’s
The students build a portfolio
Richie Bower, Caitie Squire, Cody Neville, Jack Sheehan. Back Row-Paul Mize, Lauren Torrence,
the reflection of an excellent leader
each semester. Portfolios include
Jon Roberts, Whitney Caywood, Aaron Clawson, Michael Carey, Roxy Zoderer. (Not pictured:
when he can inspire the people
cover letters, resumes, service
Tim Barnes, Sara Bauer, Andrew Hattabaugh, Joel Lickliter, Nick Miller)
who work with him. His passion is
experience, and job performance
reviews. “All of the activities are designed to provide all students with a toolbox of contagious. Tim Hudson and I volunteered our time for night school last year and
graduated an additional 21 kids. Coupled with the kids from CARE, that’s about
knowledge for for ‘making it’ in the real world,” explained Bryant.
10 percent of the CGHS graduating class of 2009.”
Every Friday is community service day. This year’s students will continue
Center Grove schools all play an important role, according to Bryant. “The
work on the CARE Pantry, developed in partnership with the White River
kids who come to our program have an excellent foundation of education from
Township Fire Department. Bryant reports that the CARE pantry, stocked
CG classrooms, from kindergarten on up. They are very intelligent – they
with nonperishable items only, will be student-run on Friday afternoons after
just need a different tool to learn. We present it in a different way, and they
enough food has been collected to serve families in the community. “One of
understand it.” Academy leaders work with the guidance counselors at the high
the character traits that we encourage is giving back to the community,” Bryant
school to monitor students’ credits for a seamless effort toward graduation.
said. Performing community service has resulted in the students gaining self“If the school corporation was not supporting alternative education, there
confidence, pride, acceptance, and ownership. Students also volunteer at the
would be a lot of students who just simply would not be graduating,” Bryant
Midwest Food Bank, The Hearth at Stones Crossing and CG elementary schools.
said. “Dr. Stephanoff and the academy staff show these kids that they are just as
The application process to enter the CG Alternative Academy includes an
important as the ones in the traditional setting, and that regardless of their pasts,
essay. The director, Bryant, Assistant Principal Amy Howie, and the high school
they have a future.”
counselors review the applications, essays, and student records to determine if
Page 3
Back to School 2009
cghs class of 2009
top 25 graduates
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1. Jonathan Wickens
GPA: 4.194
“Use the amazing amount of
resources at your fingertips
(remember people), find out
something you didn’t know
before, and get into it.”
A Cox Research Scholarship
recipient, Jonathan will
study psychology at Indiana
University. “Mr. Frank during US History AP
testing” is his favorite senior memory. Jonathan said,
“I think the Anglo Saxons and the Muslims made
a great impact on my education. But you probably
mean CG faculty, in which case I'd say Mr. Hanlin,
Mrs. Davis, and Mr. Maguire had the greatest
impact.” The valedictorian of the Class of 2009,
Jonathan offered this cure-all for whiners, “Get over
yourself. Use the amazing amount of resources at
your fingertips. Rinse and repeat indefinitely.”
2. Zachary Stallard
GPA: 4.188
“Many people in our class have
a lot of potential, and I hope
that we all use what we have to
make an impact on the world.”
A National Merit Scholarship
winner, Zach will be attending
Wheaton College and studying
Political Science. He was the
co-salutatorian and received the Indiana Academic
All-Star Award, as well as the CG Optimists Club
Lee Webb Scholarship. His favorite senior memory
was winning the WTHR Brain Game championship.
Zach said, “Some of the teachers with the biggest
impact on my education have been Mrs. Gee, Mrs.
Poynter, Mrs. Church, Mrs. Gantz, Mrs. Bickley, Mr.
Hanlin, Mrs. Davis, Mr. Frank, Mr. Maguire, Mrs.
Cullom, and Mr. McAdams. These teachers truly
care about the futures of their students.” As for the
class of 2010, he encourages them to enjoy every
moment of their senior year. “It will pass quickly,
but this is your last chance to make a difference in
Center Grove.” Zach said, “Center Grove has been a
great place to learn for the past thirteen years. Our
class has been one of the greatest in school history
and I am glad to have been a part of it.”
2. Eric Kamer
GPA: 4.188
“Thomas Edison said,
‘Genius is one percent
inspiration and ninety-nine
percent perspiration.’ He is
one hundred percent right.”
Eric will attend the RoseHulman Institute of
Technology, and plans to earn
a degree in Chemical Engineering with a minor
in Biochemical Engineering. He was awarded the
Johnson County REMC Academic Scholarship as
well as the Hoosier Scholar Award, the Dye's Walk
Men's Club Scholarship, the Rose-Hulman Merit
Scholar and the RHIT Endowed Scholarship. His
favorite senior memory was tailgating before and
after football games. “Of course, none of us will
ever forget the state championship football game!”
Eric says that many people made an impact on his
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education, including his parents who challenged
him and “teachers like Mr. Eric Howe and Mr. Andy
Kominowski. Through their mentorship I was able
to achieve great things.”
4. Amber Killin GPA: 4.183
“It’s not as hard as some people think, getting into
the top 25. You just have to try your best and believe
you can do it!” Amber will major in nursing at Ivy
Tech, and received the Academic Honors Award
while at CG. Her favorite senior memory “would
have to be dissecting the cat in anatomy. I learned so
much from it.” Amber credits all of her teachers for
impacting her education, “but I would have to give
a special shout out to Mme Frampton. I was really
excited to learn French with her as my teacher. Mrs.
Veerkamp was also great!” Her advice for the class
of 2010 is, “Don’t procrastinate! It’s really important
to think about your future and get started early.
Get it all finished, and you can have fun your last
semester of high school!”
4. Meredith Magjuka
GPA: 4.183
“I’m looking forward to being a
Tarheel!”
At the University of North
Carolina, Meredith will be
studying chemistry and
competing on the women’s
gymnastics team. She received
a full athletic scholarship to
UNC for women’s gymnastics, and was the Junior
Olympic Level 10 National All Around Champion
and two time Junior Olympic Level 10 National
Floor Exercise Champion, as well as a three time
Region 5 All-Star Gymnastics Team Member,
representing the US in Germany, Japan, and Costa
Rica, and a 2008 US National Team Member. At
Center Grove, Meredith said, “Mrs. Arbuckle always
took the time to ask how I was doing, and to give me
encouragement.”
6. Courtney Hardin
GPA: 4.151
“With the help of a wonderful
teacher, no subject is ‘too hard.’”
This fall, Courtney will
be studying journalism at
Northwestern University. Her
fondest senior memory is
making coffee with her best
friends in the yearbook office
of the Publications Lab. Wes Dodson is the teacher
that Courtney says made the most positive impact
on her education, “He taught me that with the help
of a wonderful teacher, no subject it ‘too hard.’” She
warns the class of 2010, “Don’t wish for your senior
year to end. It’s important to savor it while it lasts.”
7. Alicia McDonald
GPA: 4.139
“I’m glad that I went to Center
Grove and took advantage of
what it offered. I really feel that
I am as prepared for college as I
could be.”
Alicia will attend Lee University
in Cleveland, Tennessee,
studying elementary education
and Intercultural Studies. Winning the Centennial
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Scholarship from Lee University, she was an AP
Scholar with Honor, named Outstanding Senior
Ceramics Student, and earned the Academic
Achievement Award, Academic All-State Award, and
Outstanding Achievement Award for Excellence in
Mathematics. Alicia credits her parents with always
encouraging her to do her best, and always helping
out when she needed it. For the class of 2010, she
offers this advice, “Your senior year will be a blast
and will fly by. Make the most of it.”
8. Jonathan Martin
GPA: 4.133
“Learn from what you have
done, don’t dwell on the past’s
disguise. The lows are never as
low as they seem, but neither
are the highs.”
Jonathan will study chemical
engineering at Rose-Hulman
Institute of Technology. An
AP Scholar with Honor, he also earned Baseball
Academic All-State, the Indiana Scholar Award,
the RHIT Academic Excellence Award, the Center
Grove Achievement in Mathematics Certificate, and
the Indiana Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Outstanding Achievement Award for Excellence
in Mathematics. Jonathan was also awarded the
RHIT Endowed Scholarship. One of his most
enjoyable experiences at CG was when his group
successfully completed their final build project
in Engineering Design and Development. It
was a “fully-computerized desk, oriented with
speakers and lights.” He credits Senora Jones for
“always brightening my day with a smile,” and Mr.
Kominowski and Mr. Milligan for “introducing me
to the best subject: chemistry.” He advises the class
of 2010 that “The Project Lead the Way and AP
courses are great opportunities to prepare for college.
Thanks to these courses, I have a chance to enter
Rose-Hulman in many sophomore level courses.”
9. Caitlin Sporleder
GPA: 4.121
“Do your best in everything
you do, and you will not be
disappointed.”
Caitlin will attend Ball
State University to major in
Elementary Education and
minor in Spanish. A 4-year
varsity track member, she was
named MIC All Academic, and won the John E.
Koontz Memorial Relays Sportsmanship Award. She
also earned the Ball State University Presidential,
the Dale and Carol Tumey, the Spanish Club, and
Zellwood Station scholarships. Her favorite senior
memory is “being in the front row and cheering on
the Trojans during the state championship football
game.” Caitlin credits her teachers and parents
as impacting her education, “I have had so many
positive experiences with CG teachers who have
taken extra time to help me further my education
and become involved in extracurricular activities. In
addition, my parents have taught me to do my best.”
Her advice for the class of 2010 is “Be yourself, work
hard, and take advantage of the opportunities offered
at Center Grove High School.”
10. McKenzie Weeks GPA: 4.115 (no survey returned)
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top 25 continued
10
10. Aaron Cox GPA: 4.115
“Wear glasses when you do
math. It improves division.”
Aaron plans to attend Purdue
University to study computer
engineering. He was a National
Merit Finalist, an AP Scholar
with Distinction, and an
alternate for the CG Brain
Game Team. He was awarded
the CGHS Band Boosters, the Margaret and Vandy
and the Purdue Trustees scholarships, and was
selected to participate in the S-STEM Scholars of
Purdue program and scholarship. Aaron’s favorite
senior memories were of the Brain Game and Quiz
Bowl Teams. “The competitions were fun, but the
time we spent together on bus trips and during
victory meals was even more memorable.” Aaron
appreciates the support of his parents, and his
teachers, especially those from his senior year. “With
all of them, it seemed the grades were less important
than the effort put into learning the material. It
worked; my senior grades were the best of the four.”
12. Riley Hoffman
GPA: 4.097
“I want to expand my
knowledge and comfort
zones. I'm looking forward to
spreading my wings and flying
as high as I can!”
Riley will major in BioChemistry and minor in
Spanish at IU, with plans to go
to continue to medical school. She was a presenter
at the Student Council National Convention, and has
won several CG choir awards. A National Honor
Society and Spanish NHS member, she earned
the Center Grove Choir and the IU “Excellence”
scholarships. My favorite memory was winning
the state football game. What a night! From the
sheer energy and sense of community one felt when
entering the stadium, to the players' inspirational
story of perseverance, this memory will forever be a
highlight of my senior year. “My parents have always
inspired me to work my hardest and always stay
positive. To my Extended Learning teachers- Mrs.
Church, Mrs. Shannon, and Mrs. Poynter, thank you
for steering me onto a different path. I would also
like to thank Mrs. Jo Jones, Mrs. Marcene Hensley,
and Mrs. Judy Lines for sharing their love of
teaching with me. They have inspired me with their
passion to continue my educational journey.” Riley’s
advice for the class of 2010 is, “Create relationships
with your teachers. You will be amazed how much
one-on-one assistance helps you understand the
concepts!”
13. Alicia Smith GPA: 4.067
“It is a huge honor to rank in
the top 25 of a class with tons
of smart students! I am so glad
that my hard work paid off!”
Headed to IU, Alicia will study
elementary education – general
and all learners (special needs).
She earned the IU Prestige
Scholarship after achieving
Academic Honors all four years of high school and
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Academic All-State for Tennis. Alicia’s favorite
senior memories are the senior activities; sunrise,
sunset, bike ride, Trojan Choice Awards, Honors
Night, and senior spirit week. According to
Alicia, “My parents have always led me in the right
direction and supported my goals. Also, I wanted to
be just like them.” She also credits her second grade
teacher, Mrs. Barbara Kruckeberg as the main reason
she fell in love with school and wanted to become a
second grade teacher. “She constantly had a positive
attitude and gave everyone individual attention. She
made learning fun.”
14. Adrianne Wilson
GPA: 4.06
“I had a great high school
experience made wonderful
by several good teachers and
friends.”
Adrianne will attend Taylor
University to study biology/
pre-med. She earned the
Indiana Academic Award and
Presidential scholarships from Taylor University.
Her favorite senior memory is going to senior prom
with all her close friends. Her advice for the class of
2010 is to “Stay strong and don’t get discouraged or
lazy. Finish out your high school career strong; you
will be proud that you did when it’s over.”
15. Sarah Higgens
GPA: 4.042
“Never stop dreaming; it’s the
little steps you take now that
prepare you for the future.”
Sarah, the State Cross Country
Champion and the Daily
Journal’s Female Athlete of the
Year, earned both athletic and
academic scholarships to the
University of New Mexico. There, she will study
Exercise Science, Business, and Spanish. Sarah’s
top two favorite senior memories are winning the
State Cross Country Meet, and celebrating the CG
Football State Championship. Her parents made a
positive impact on her because, “They have loved
and supported me, and introduced me to a life with
God, who has blessed me greatly.” Her cross country/
track coach, Wed Dodson, instilled in Sarah the
value of hard work. Her advice for the class of 2010
is “Never stop dreaming; it’s the little steps you take
now that prepare you for the future. Always keep
faith in God, because he has a great plan for you.”
16. Simon Hufnagel
GPA: 4.036
“Work hard, but above all else,
cherish every moment.” Simon will be attending Purdue
University to study Aerospace
Engineering. He received the
Purdue Trustees Scholarship
and the Donnan Scholarship
for Engineering Students.
Spending Thanksgiving Break at Disney World
with the marching band is Simon’s favorite senior
memory. Making a positive impact on his education
were his parents, who he says, “always supported me
in every way,” as well as Mr. Schuessler, Mr. Frank,
Mr. Scanlan, Mr. Kerkhof, Mrs. Fruits, Mr. Maguire,
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and Mr. Kominowski, “all teachers who made my
high school education wonderful.” His advice to the
class of 2010 is to make every day a great memory, as
“this will be your last year together and it will fly by
much faster than you realize.”
17. Jillian Morris
GPA: 4.024
“…hard work is the main
ingredient to reach the top
25. The past four years have
been tough, but working your
way to the top is a great feeling
in the end! Jillian will major
in pharmacy and minor in
Spanish at Butler University.
At Center Grove, Jillian earned two scholarships,
one from the CG Booster Club for soccer, and the
other from the CG Scholarship Foundation. She has
received other soccer awards including Academic
All-State and MIC Academic Awards. She mentions
two favorite senior memories, including the CG
vs. Carmel State Football Game, “I still get chills
thinking about looking up at the scoreboard to see
that we had won!” The other is “when my friend and
I drove to Chicago to watch our show choirs perform
at Nationals, aka FAME! We won the whole thing,
and our show choirs had the performances of their
lives!” Jillian also credits her family, saying, “My
sister is my hero,” and “my parents both supported
me through all 12 years of school!” She advises the
class of 2010 to “Try a new club or go to a show choir
competition that you wouldn’t usually attend. You
never know, you might find something you love!”
18. Jason Edelman
GPA: 4.006
“Grades aren’t everything. It’s
more beneficial to be a wellrounded person that to have
a high GPA.” Jason will study
chemistry or biology at DePauw
University. He was awarded the
Faculty Distinguished Scholar
Award, the Holton Memorial
Scholarship, and the Dean’s Award from DePauw.
His favorite senior memory was winning the Brain
Game championship. Jason credits his teachers
for encouraging him to succeed and his friends for
providing competition to be the best. He advises the
class of 2010 to “Work hard, but more importantly,
enjoy the time you have at school because it goes
fast!”
19. Adam Fox GPA: 3.957
“Thanks to everyone who
helped me on my journey. I will
always treasure my high school
memories.”
Adam will be studying in
the Telecommunications
Department at Ball State
University. He twice won the
Mental Attitude Award in
Baseball, and was voted by the senior class as “Most
Likely to become a TV Anchor.” He is also the
recipient of the Ball State Presidential Scholarship.
Adam’s favorite senior memory is hitting his first
ever home run during his last high school at-bat. He
said, “There is no doubt that it has to be my parents,”
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Back to School 2009
top 25 continued
when asked about those who made a positive impact
on his education. “They helped me to establish a
strong work ethic and always gided me in the right
direction when I was struggling.” For the Class of
2010, he advises to “take notice of the little things,
because those are the memories you will cherish one
you have left your mark at Center Grove.”
19. Matt Gentzkow
GPA: 3.957
“Go Musketeers!”
Matt will study history at Xavier
University in Cincinnati, Ohio.
He won several band awards,
including Indiana Percussion
Association First Place Snare
Soloist, Indiana All-State
Band, Center Grove Trojan
Band Outstanding Percussionist, and Center Grove
Outstanding Percussion Player. He also was awarded
the Xavier University Presidential Scholarship
for leadership and academic achievement. Not
surprisingly, Matt’s favorite senior memory was
when the CG Indoor Percussion placed second at the
WGI Percussion World Championships in Dayton,
OH. He says of his parents, “They convinced me to
read books at an early age and helped me develop a
work ethic that has influenced every other aspect of
my life.” For the class of 2010, he offers the words of
Jimmy Valvano, “I urge all of you, all of you, to enjoy
your life, the precious moments you have.”
19. Alex Kamo GPA: 3.957 “You don’t always
have to be one of the smartest to be one of the best.”
Alex will study math at IU this fall. At Center Grove,
he received the Scholar Athlete Award, Outstanding
Academic Achievement Award, and Academic All
Conference for soccer. He also is an IU Prestige
Scholarship recipient. Alex’s favorite senior memory
is making it to semi-state in soccer. He says his
parents and teachers impacted his education by
“keeping me focused all throughout high school and
challenging me to do my best.”
22. Jenna Nawrocki
GPA: 3.956
“Live each minute to its fullest
happiness and love others as
much as you can, because you
never know when it will be your
last, and you never know what
you have until it’s gone.”
Jenna will attend the
University of Indianapolis
to major in Biology. She hopes to become a
nutritionist. High school accomplishments
include Academic Honors Diploma, Honors
night (GPA of 3.67 or higher), Spanish National
Honor Society, National Honor Society, Math
Award. She also received the UIndy Dean’s
Scholarship, and distinguished admission into
the Honors College. Her favorite senior memory
is playing the role of the narrator in “Joseph and
the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat.” Jenna
credits her parents, Susan and Stephen Nawrocki,
who “taught me to always do my best and never
settle for less that I was capable of doing. They
inspired me to work hard and live to my greatest
potential, to follow my dreams and do what I can
to make the world a better place.”
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22. Chase Coy GPA: 3.956
“Mr. Frank taught me to love
education, and to pursue a
career in something I am truly
passionate about.”
Chase is pursuing a full-time
music career. He recently
finished recording his album
and will be on tour this
summer. A National Merit
Commended Student, Chase’s favorite senior
memory was when the Center Grove Choirs won
Nationals, “When we won and rushed the stage, it
was like one big happy choir family!” He is most
looking forward to “No homework,” and offers this
advice for the class of 2010, “Do your best and have
fun. Hard work does pay off, so keep your chin up!”
24. Megan Benedict GPA: 3.951
“I just want to thank all of my teachers. Thank you
for shaping me into the student I am and for giving
me all the knowledge and experience necessary
for success.” Megan will study music education
at DePauw University. While at CG, she received
many band awards including Most Outstanding
Symphonic Band Member, Junior Marcher and Field
Commander, as well as the Louis Armstrong Award.
She also earned the Faculty Distinguished Scholar
award and music performance scholarships from
DePauw. Megan’s favorite senior memory is “having
the honor of leading the CG marching band as their
field commander.” Mr. Lapka and Mr. Schuessler,
“have shown me exactly how teachers can touch a
student. Music has always been my escape and my
passion. They showed me how to refine my talent
and were my mentors.” Amber is looking forward
to her career, hoping to have the same impact on her
students that her band directors have had on her.
She advises the class of 2010 to enjoy their last year
of high school, “and your last chance to act like a kid.
Have fun!”
25. Alex Fox GPA: 3.945
“Effort plays a bigger role
in your grades than does
intellectual ability.”
Alex will study business at
Indiana University. At Center
Grove, he was named an MIC
Scholar Athlete, and received
an award for Achievement
in Mathematics. His favorite
memory is the football state title game. The person
how made a positive impact on his education was
his brother, Adam. “We always competed with each
other to be the higher rank in our class, which made
me try harder at school.” He is looking forward to
new experiences in college, and Alex advises the
class of 2010, “Don’t take school too seriously; have
as much fun as you can, or you will end up hating
school.”
25. Sam Walker GPA: 3.945
“Keep your friends, stay connected, and learn.
The easiest way to get through is together.”
Sam is off to Knoxville, TN to study youth ministry
and missions at Johnson Bible College. He received
the Prudential Spirit of Community award and
was named an Alexander Christian Foundation
"Outstanding Christian Student.” Watching the
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School Review
25
state finals comeback at Lucas Oil Stadium is Sam’s
favorite senior memory. “Mrs. Gill impacted me the
most. She always sought to make sure I understood
things, rather than just memorizing them.” Sam
reminds the class of 2010 to “Reeeelaxxxx. Enjoy
senior year, but take care of scholarship and college
applications as early as possible. Everything is easier
if it’s done earlier.”
CG Scholarship Foundation Scholarships
Awarded to the Class of 2009
Alex Girdley Memorial $1,000
Katherine Elizabeth Belsito
Vandy and Margaret Memorial $1,200
Aaron Michael Cox Leslie Cook-Dickerson Memorial $1,000
Lauren Olivia Koen
Friends Forever Memorial $1,500 each
Samantha Clodfelter and Chad Smith
Denney French History $1,000
Anna MacKenzie Weeks
Band Boosters $1,000
Aaron Michael Cox
Texas Roadhouse $1,000
Kristopher Klee Bird
Carol and Dale Tumey $1,000
Caitlin Sporleder
Julie Anne Swengel Memorial $1,000
Christopher James Webb
Optimists Club/Lee Webb Memorial $1,500 each
Zachary Stallard and Darah Patton
Men's Club of Dye's Walk Country Club $1,000
Eric Kamer
Zachary Scott Schafer Memorial $1,000
Shelby Mappes
Rachael Hope Valentine $1,000 each
Robert Reichle and Jill Bradley
CGEF/David A. Hicks $1,000
Courtney Hardin
Megan Williams Memorial $1,000
Nina Gentner
JCCF Endowment $1,000
Alan Matthew Huffman
Tyler Scott Leitzman Memorial $1,000
Julie Query
AXA Dollars for Scholars Community Award $1,000
($500 plus CGSF match of $500)
Rachel Jones
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cgcsc
around the district
CGHS Teachers join Study Tour in China
CGHS teachers, John Frank, U.S. History,
and Tom Brogan, Social Studies, participated
in a summer study tour. They spent 20 days
in China, then Frank visited Vietnam for an
additional 10 days. Mr. Frank reports:
“From June 14 until July 4, Tom Brogan
and I participated in a study tour to China.
The tour was sponsored and paid for by the
East Asian Studies Center (EASC) of Indiana
University. Tom Brogan was a participant on
the tour and I served a tour leader. In China,
Tom studied Chinese systems of government
and the Chinese education system. This is the
sixth EASC study tour that I have held the paid
position of “Curriculum Consultant.” In this
position I assist teachers from throughout the
Midwest to develop lessons about East Asia for
the classroom. This is the tenth time that I have
Martial Arts for P.E., Folk Dance, TEAM Time,
Speedstacking, Fitness jump ‘n jive, Bowling
and Skating in School, advocacy ideas, Muscle,
it does the Body Good, Summer and Winter
Olympics ideas, CARDIO with a Twist, Juggling,
and A Few of my Favorite Things.
The kindergarten through fifth grade classes
are in for a treat as Yates and Cragen incorporate
these new activities into their classes at Sugar
Grove and Center Grove Elementary!
Community Technology Classes
The Center Grove technology department
offered a variety of “fun” community technology
classes in the spring of 2009. The classes
included Customized Labels, Photo Calendar,
and Video Scrapbooking. Participants left with
projects they created. For example, a participant
in the Video Scrapbooking class created a
PhotoStory of their grandchild’s graduation. The
technology department will be offering more
community classes in the fall.
attend. To donate, volunteer, or find out more,
please contact Amy Fix at [email protected].
in.us or 881-0581 ext 1414.
AIC Essay Contest Winner!
Congratulations to Kalea Maulden, a student
at Pleasant Grove Elementary, who won the
AIC East Central Distric Essay Contest. The
Association of Indiana Counties sponsored the
essay contest for third graders. Kalea received
a certificate and cash prize of $100 as a district
winner. She attended East Central AIC district
meeting to receive her prizes and read her essay.
CGHS Meets Riley Caring & Sharing Goal
CGHS students held three “Riley Hat Days,”
during which students could pay $1 to wear a hat
to school, and the annual “Riley Soup Dinner”
during the 2009 basketball season. The goal was
to raise $1 per CGHS student to benefit the Riley
Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. They
raised $2,400.
traveled to East Asia. The photo of Tom and
I was taken outside the “Bird’s Nest”, the sight
of last summer’s Olympic Games. The study
tour visited a Chinese middle school as well as
historic and cultural sights in Beijing, Xian,
Shanghai, and Yunan Province.
“After completion of the study tour I traveled
solo to Vietnam. There, I visited historic sights
in Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City.”
CG Teachers attend PE Summer Institute
Diana Yates, PE teacher at Sugar Grove, and
Melody Cragen, who teaches PE at Center Grove
Elementary, attended the Physical Education
Summer Institute sponsored by Indiana
University. The conference was held at North
Wayne Elementary in Indianapolis. Diana Yates
reports, “We had three days of jam-packed fun
and activity!”
Facilitators included representatives from
Illinos Sate University and Indiana University,
as well as Marie Lawler from the Children’s Folk
Dance Festival, and three National Physical
Education Teacher of the Year: Meg Greiner
from Orgen, Roberta Sipe from Indianapolis and
Debbie Riga from Columbus.
A sampling of the topics include: Dynamic
Physical Education, Best Practices, Hoopdaloop
Fitness, State of the State Obesity Integration,
Page 7
2010 NASC Conference Update
A group
of 38 CGHS
students and
staff attended
the 2009
National
Association
of Student
Councils
Conference in Denver, Colorado. The
delegation spent two days prior to as well as
during the conference shadowing and assisting
this year’s host school. Staff members who
attended included: Amy Fix, Karen Hovanec,
Sandy Hillman, Matt Shockley, John Moore,
Adam Gaff, Kelly Scholl, Tammy Chadwick,
Lindsay Hull, Melissa Warner, Danielle Myers,
Matt Ehresman. Rick Pederson, CGCSC
Transportation Director, also attended to
observe and assist the host school with their
transportation logistics. Nicole Kreuzman, Blake
Lemmons, and Clare Standley (student trichairs) presented twice, providing an overview
of our 2010 conference to 300 advisors and 1000
delegates. They were fantastic and represented
our school extremely well!
CGHS will host this conference June 26-29,
2010. More than 1,300 incoming student leaders
and advisors from around the country will
Vocal Recital August 16
CGHS Assistant Choral Director, Jennifer
Dice, was awarded an $8000 Lilly Teacher
Creativity Grant. Her grant proposal was
entitled “Time for a Tune-Up” and provided the
opportunity to travel abroad to visit historically
musical cities and study privately with a vocal
instructor. The result would be a vocal recital
prepared for her friends, family, and school
community. Mrs. Dice reports:
“I left July 15th for Florence, Italy and was
accompanied by my mother, Joellen Gross. We
stayed with a Florentine gentleman named
Vincenzo during this time. I took lessons at the
Istituto Europeo for two weeks. I studied vocal
technique and interpretation with two Italian
professors at the institute. We also visited Lucca,
Siena, San Gimignano, Cinque Terre, and Rome
during these first two weeks. The second two
weeks I was accompanied by my hustband, Troy,
and we visited several cities in Italy and Austria.
We started on the Amalfi Coast, then Rome,
Cinque Terre, Venice, Salzburg, and Vienna.”
The vocal recital is open to the public, and
will be held at 2:00 p.m. on August 16 at the
Center Grove High School Performing Arts
Center. The recital will last approximately 30-45
minutes.
Back to School 2009
Congratulations to
CGHS Principal Matt Shockley and CGMSC Principal Jack Parker
for being named District 9 Principals of the Year for 2009
by The Indiana Association of School Principals!
ADMINISTRATION
Dr. Steven Stephanoff
Superintendent
Dr. Janet Boyle
Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Bill Long
Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Paul Gabriel
Chief Financial Officer
school
review
Center Grove Community School Corporation
4800 W. Stones Crossing Road
Greenwood, IN 46143-9100
(317) 881-9326
www.centergrove.k12.in.us
Non-Profit
Organization
US Postage
PAID
Greenwood, IN
Permit No. 32
BOARD OF SCHOOL TRUSTEES
Dr. Jim Copp, President
Dr. Scott Gudeman, Vice President
Mrs. Carol Tumey, Secretary
Mr. Mark Dietel, Member
Mr. John Steed, Member
The Center Grove Community School
Corporation Mission:
To develop knowledgeable, confident and
responsible citizens by providing an extensive
learning experience relevant to the interests and
capabilities of every student, in partnership
with the home and community.
On the Cover: North Grove Elementary School Second Graders using HP
Mininote computers in the 1:1 Technology Grant Program.
CGHS Athletic State Champions
Center Grove defeated Cathedral in three straight games to win the
Indiana Boys High School Volleyball State Championship played at
Franklin Community High School in Franklin on Saturday May 23.
Trojan player Phil Daprile was named MVP of the State Tournament.
Congratulations to the team and to Coach Deb McClurg and her staff
on a great championship season!
Back to School 2009
Not to be outdone, the CGHS Girls’ Softball Team won their 5th State
title in a one-hit shutout on June 13 at Ben Davis High School. The title
game was the season’s 26th Trojan shutout. Congratulations to Coach Russ
Milligan, his staff and the team on finishing with a 33-3 record, and the
State Championship! Coach Milligan also logged his 500th win at CG and
was named the Indianapolis Star’s All-South Coach of the Year. Katherine
Belsito, Emily Gwaltney, Liz Prince and Sarah Franklin were named AllConference athletes. Katherine Belsito and Emily Gwaltney were also
Indiana North-South All-Stars. These teams joined the Boys Tennis Team,
Sarah Higgens (Cross Country), and the Class 5A Football Team to make
five CGHS State Champions in 2008-09!
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