Maple Avenue staff present on Power Groups
Nine Maple Avenue Elementary School staff members presented on the effective use of Power Groups to help improve literacy achievement at their school. The literacy intervention groups meet regularly to help Tier 2 and 3 student progress. Principal Kristin Koeper-Hamblin noted that student achievement has increased on the state report card from an Exceeds Expectations rating of 77.4 in 2012-13 to Significantly Exceeds Expectations ratings of 86.9-89.9 in the last three years. She attributed part of the school’s success to the use of the Power Group model.
Templeton robotics teams recognized
Members of the Templeton Middle School First Lego League (FLL) Robotics teams were honored for their outstanding season. Head advisor Kathy Better introduced members of each team. The Radioactive Pyros and Bullistic Bulldogs were among 36 teams statewide that competed Feb. 23 in the Wisconsin FLL Championship.
The Radioactive Pyros won the Project Research Award and were nominated for the Project Presentation Award. The statewide award is the first in Templeton history. They won the Project Presentation Award and was nominated for the Gracious Professionalism and Champions Award in sectional competition.
At sectionals, Bullistic Bulldogs won the Project Research Award and was nominated for the Project Innovative Solution Award.
Participation in NCA program continues
The district will continue to participate in AdvancEd/North Central Association accreditation at a cost between $750 to $1,000. The accreditation process aligns with district site planning and responds to the public’s demand for greater accountability for schools, including an increased focus on student learning methods and professional development. Hamilton has been NCA accredited since 1966.
The district plans to continue using CESA services and programs to assist students who are at-risk, not succeeding in a traditional school environment or have specialized educational needs. Alternative placement programs offered through CESA include New Pathways, Turning Point, Project Success, Fresh Start and Distinguished Scholars Academy.
Currently, 19 Hamilton students participate in New Pathways, two in Turning Point, one in Project Success, and two in Distinguished Scholars Academy.
Services for 2019-20 will be contracted as needs arise.
Personnel action
In personnel matters, the School Board:
- approved the resignations of Hamilton High School Principal Candis Mongan, effective June 30; Hamilton special education paraprofessional Ashley Katz, effective March 8; and Woodside associate kitchen employee Karen Figarino, effective March 15;
- accepted the retirement request of Marcy music teacher Rodney Loren, Ph.D., at the end of the school year;
- appointed Allyson Billings as Maple and Lannon psychologist, effective Aug. 21, Sara Grunzel as Woodside reading specialist, effective Aug. 26 and Kristina Scott as Woodside administrative assistant effective July 1; and
- modified the contract for Templeton special education teacher Melissa Brokate El-Meanawy to change her last day to March 12.