Students and staff at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School surprised junior class cosmetology instructor Diane Dalesio on her final day of teaching. Dalesio, a former student in the JVS cosmetology program, retired at the end of September after 27 years on staff and received balloons, decorations, flowers and cake as well as a surprise visit from some recent graduates as a farewell.

Juniors and seniors in the criminal justice program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School attended the Ohio Seventh District Court of Appeals session at Steubenville High School on Sept. 24. The students had a chance to listen to attorneys argue their points in four criminal trials and three civil cases. Among those attending were, pictured in front from left, Memphis Goad, Colleen Miles, Justice Lathem, Reahana Shields, Oktober Cope, Audrey Nutter, Danielle Howard, Brookelina Grigsby and Paige Sechrist. Second row: Darrell Dunbar, Chase Moodie and Hana Summers. The remaining students are from Steubenville High School.

Juniors and seniors in the criminal justice program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School participated in a distance-learning session with St. Louis University. Students took part in an autopsy lesson which included an interactive human cadaver demonstration through video conferencing. The program discussed the basic procedure of a forensic autopsy, during which the principles of objectivity, scientific method and evidence gathering were outlined.  The program was made possible through a $1 million USDA grant the JVS obtained earlier this year.

BLOOMINGDALE-Longtime intervention specialist Jennifer Davis has been a familiar face at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, but now she has another title as the new Transition To Work coordinator.

   

Davis, of Amsterdam, began her duties on Sept. 3 but said the JVS feels like home since she is also a one-time student. A 1993 graduate of Edison High School, she was also enrolled in the business data accounting program at the vocational school and said it has been a real family affair. Her father, John Ramsey, is a retired power mechanics instructor who was succeeded by her brother-in-law, Fred Jones, while sister Emily Moore teaches the animal science management program. Additionally, she is married to electrical trades instructor Buddy Davis and they have a son, Brody.

   

"We believe in vocational education wholeheartedly," Davis said.

   

The Richmond native earned her teaching degree from Ohio University and worked at Tri-County Career Center and Carrollton Exempted Schools before returning to the JVS, where she spent the past 10 years as an intervention specialist and taught math, financial literacy, World History and English. Davis said she's always had a special place in her heart for the developmentally disabled students and took advantage when the position became available after TTW instructor Christina Henderson moved on to Edison High School.

   

"I've always loved these kids and was looking for something new and challenging," Davis said. "When the opportunity came up, I decided to take a shot."

   

She currently works with a class of nine students, including three returning and six new pupils, and has assistance from aides Dawn Pugh and Greg Emmelrick. She is helping the students learn to manage the Soaring Eagle Café, where they peddle popcorn, cookies and slushies to school students and staff during lunchtime, and she is looking to more long-term goals. Davis said she is acclimating herself to the position but hopes to carry on some longtime projects, such as working with the Jefferson County Humane Society as part of the community service program. Students have also worked within the community by cleaning up Vaccaro Field and helping at local businesses, as well as operating the Caring Closet and providing supplies at the school. However, Davis also wants to reach out to other groups such as the Friendship Room.

   

"We are working on their job-readiness and life skills along with their academic requirements," she said. "We're starting slowly and working on community-based projects as graduation requirements to gain hours. They've always done something with the animal shelter and I want to continue that."

   

Her ultimate goal is to help them become productive members of society.

 

"It's a new challenge around every corner and every bend," she concluded. "They are keeping me on my toes and I'm loving it."

    

Photo Caption: Jennifer Davis has taken over the role as Transition To Work coordinator at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School and plans to help her students become productive members of society. The pupils are learning job-readiness and life skills by working at the Soaring Eagle Café and in the community and Davis is pictured, at far right, with seniors Alaina Warren, Hailey Bradley and Zayne Carlson.

BLOOMINGDALE-Health technologies students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School have another state-of-the-art tool to help hone their life-saving skills.

   

The program gained a $65,371 grant from the Mary Jane Brooks Charitable Trust and acquired a Hal 3000 nursing patient simulator this past spring. The mannequin is wireless and tetherless and provides a realistic glimpse of health care treatment. Hal is so realistic that it blinks, speaks and is responsive, plus it can be programmed with such issues as anaphylactic shock, arterial defibrillation and a broken leg to bleeding disorders, trauma and respiratory ailments for students to diagnose and treat. They also can utilize Hal to practice EKG, blood pressure, pulse, CPR and other procedures.

   

Instructor Tammy Sismondo said students were enthusiastic about the equipment and it was a major benefit to the program.

   

“The Hal 3000 simulator has already made a significant impact in our classroom. Its life-like features and interactive capabilities have transformed our curriculum into a more engaging and dynamic experience,” Sismondo said. “Our students are excited and motivated to work with Hal, and the hands-on component of their training is proving invaluable. They are not only learning essential skills but are also retaining knowledge in ways that traditional methods alone could not achieve.”

     

She was grateful to the charitable trust, which previously provided another $71,000 grant to acquire an Anatomage table for the lab in 2022. The six-foot-long table features a dual touchscreen surface which gives students a 3-D view of the various organs and system functions of the human body, plus users can view more than 1,300 clinical cases from brain aneurysms to tumors as well as X-rays and virtual autopsies. It also includes quizzes and games as well as images of animals that can be used for instruction in the animal science program. Additionally, officials acquired a large television screen to project the images and the equipment includes curriculum to aid instruction.

   

As for Hal, Sismondo said it was another useful way to prepare her students for work in the health care field.

   

“The students absolutely love him. He operates with artificial intelligence and is very interactive and user friendly,” she added. “I needed something where students would have hands-on training, so before they went out and worked with people they had the ability to work in a controlled environment.”

   

Students agreed that it was a great learning tool and offered a real-life experience so they know how to respond during an actual situation.

   

“I like the new technology that offers us hands-on learning experience,” said senior Brooke Scharfenberg. “I think it’s neat for the class.”

   

“I’m excited to work with it,” added senior Kaylee Sandy. “It’s a new experience.”

   

“I love it,” noted senior Daelynn Cordle. “He does a bunch of different scenarios that you see in hospitals. It teaches you a lot of life skills.”

   

All three said they plan to continue a career in health care, with Scharfenberg eyeing work as an ER nurse and both Sandy and Cordle looking to become travel nurses. Sismondo said training with Hal will help give them a distinct advantage.

   

“Hal is invaluable to the curriculum,” Sismondo continued. “The students can learn to respond in a situation and hopefully they will be able to become better clinicians. I’m very grateful and thankful to the Mary Jane Brooks Charitable Trust for investing in our students. Most of them will give back in our communities and work at the hospitals, and not only is this helping our students but it’s also helping to improve the quality of health care for our community.”

 

Photo Caption:

Brooke Scharfenberg, Kaylee Sandy and Daelynn Cordle, all seniors in the health technologies program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, are learning some valuable life-saving skills with the new Hal 3000 patient simulator. The interactive mannequin is very realistic and can be programmed with a variety of ailments for students to diagnose and treat. Instructor Tammy Sismondo said Hal was funded through an estimated $65,000 grant from the Mary Jane Brooks Charitable Trust and further enhances her students’ education to become better clinicians.

BLOOMINGDALE-The CrestView Inn Restaurant will be opening its doors once again for the public to enjoy freshly made food and give culinary arts students real restaurant experience.

   

About 12 juniors and seniors at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are sharpening their skills in the kitchen and learning to serve diners as the eatery starts up this coming week. Instructor Glen Zalenski said a soft opening was set for school staff leading up to the targeted official re-opening on Sept. 17. The full-service restaurant will operate on Tuesday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with dine-in and take-out meals available.

   

“We’re going to have a very limited menu for dine in and carryout,” Zalenski said, adding that burgers, cold sandwiches and loaded baked potatoes were included while more items will be added throughout the year.

   

The restaurant is also equipped with a smoker for meats and a recently added hydroponics tree to grow its own lettuce and herbs, plus Zalenski plans to provide seasonal dishes such as pierogis for Lent. In addition to the food, the CrestView Inn also offers up fresh-brewed coffee and cappuccino. Students will be able to purchase coffee and cappuccino from 7:30-8 a.m. while the public can enjoy the warm beverages with their lunch.

   

Zalenski said phone orders will be taken at this time but online orders may also be added in the future. There is also plenty of space for a dine-in experience and the restaurant can accommodate small parties and organizational meetings. The site has been revamped with new flooring, windows, furniture, cabinets and equipment installed over the past year as part of a $30,000 project and Zalenski said his budding chefs were preparing to serve the people.

   

Now in his 10^th year as instructor, Zalenski said he also plans to include students in culinary competitions, build their skills with professional chefs on his advisory board and give them as much experience as possible. Takeout orders can be picked up at the restaurant in the rear of the building, while reservations and orders can be made by calling (740) 264-5545, Ext. 602.

Photo Caption:

Culinary arts students prepare homemade pickles as they get ready for the re-opening of the CrestView Inn restaurant at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.   A soft opening was being held for school staff with the official public re-opening set for Sept. 17. The restaurant will operate Tuesday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a limited menu, for now. For orders, reservations or information, call (740) 264-5545, Ext. 602.

BLOOMINGDALE-For the second year in a row, the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School FFA chapter will have representation at the national Future Farmers of America Veterinary Science Competition.

Four members who all take part in the school’s animal science management program will attend the event at the Big E (Eastern States Exposition) in Springfield, Mass., on Sept. 12-15. The Big E, which is the Massachusetts State Fair, celebrates agriculture and will include the 2024 FFA Days with a variety of fun activities. Teams from 18 states spanning from Kentucky to Maine and as far as Iowa will have a chance to demonstrate their veterinary skills in such topics as equipment and breed identification, skills demonstration and written and math exams. The events will take place Sept. 13 and culminate with an awards banquet the next evening at the Sheraton Monarch Downtown.

Seniors Katherine Grizzel, Kyleigh Haines, Mya Keenan and Katelyn Cain are taking their first trip to the northeast with instructor/advisor Emily Moore after gaining second place during the Ohio FFA competition in Columbus this past April. They said they were “excited but nervous” about going to the nationals and hoped to represent the school well since last year’s team took fourth place at the competition.

“We will do identification and clinical demonstrations,” explained Grizzel, who serves as chapter president.

Keenan said they have studied to prepare for the contests while they also plan to partake of fair events and do a little sightseeing with visits to museums and a Six Flags amusement park.

All four students said they plan to go into the animal science field following graduation.

“I love animals and I have a medical interest,” said Grizzel, the daughter of Elizabeth Crow of Steubenville and a student at Indian Creek High School. She noted that she plans to attend veterinary school.

“I just want to be able to help animals, and it’s really interesting to learn about it,” added Haines, a Mingo Junction resident and the daughter of Chelsey Fish and Chris Haines. The ICHS student also hopes to work in the field.

“I’ve always had a love for animals and anything science related, so the two go together well,” commented Keenan, the daughter of Brooke Goddard of Wintersville and a student at Steubenville High School. She intends to become a vet tech and attend veterinary school.

And for Cain, it was a real family affair. The Bergholz resident is the daughter of Susan Cain and Mike Zatezalo and hopes to follow in her mother’s footsteps.

“My mom was a vet tech and I also love animals,” she added. “I plan to be an intern at a vet clinic and go to vet school, as well as to take courses in equine chiropractic care.”

Advisor Moore was proud of the group and said while she was familiar with the activities, it was all new to the students. Still, she has plenty of faith in their abilities.

“This is the second time a group has gone. I’m excited and I think they are going to do well,” Moore added. “We know what to expect and there may be a few surprises, but they are quick thinking and great at problem solving.”

Photo Caption:

Jefferson County Joint Vocational School animal science management students are headed to the national stage for the 2024 FFA Vet Science Competition on Sept. 12-15 in Massachusetts. Last year’s team earned fourth place out of 18 states and current FFA members attending include, pictured from left, seniors Katherine Grizzel, Kyleigh Haines, Mya Keenan and Katelyn Cain.

BLOOMINGDALE-Classrooms and other facilities throughout the Jefferson County Joint Vocational have gotten revamped for the new school year.

Principal/Supervisor Andy Long said an estimated $136,000 worth of projects began in June and were completed around Aug. 9. Among them were the remodeling of the early childhood education program lab; an overhaul of the media center/school meeting room with furniture, flooring and paintwork; a fresh coat of paint, carpeting and furniture in a math and new English and resource rooms; and new blacktop, resealing and restriping at the entrance to the school’s main drive.

“Our ECE lab underwent a complete remodel,” he said. “J+J Flooring from Columbus supplied the Kinetex flooring and LVT (luxury vinyl tile) and Get Coated Painting of Toronto handled the painting, plus Ft. Steuben Maintenance of Steubenville worked on the preschool bathroom and JAH from Bloomingdale provided the custom cabinets and countertops.”

He continued that the meeting room received furniture along with Kinetex flooring and paintwork while a few classrooms also received new paint, carpeting and furniture. Additionally, Blackie and Son Excavating provided the new blacktop at the entrance and resealed and restriped the remaining asphalt throughout the school grounds. The cost breakdown included J+J Flooring, $42,000; Borden’s Office Equipment, $64,000; Get Coated Painting $7,000; and Blackie and Son Excavating, $23,000. Costs were covered with permanent improvement funds.

Long said the ECE lab and meeting room were original to the building but had received a few updates through the years. He added that the projects will help sustain the facility as well as the students’ education.
 

“These upgrades will significantly enhance the learning environment for our students. The new flooring and furniture will provide a more comfortable and modern space, while the remodeled ECE lab will offer a better, more functional area for our early childhood program. Improved facilities support better learning outcomes and create a more engaging atmosphere for students.”

Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson noted that the ECE lab had replaced cabinetry roughly five to 10 years ago but now has painted cabinets and new counters to freshen up the space. The media center/meeting room added two spaces for offices for the adult education director and tech prep coordinator, while it and other classrooms and program labs gained interactive displays as part of a $1million distance learning project. The JVS received an estimated $855,000 USDA Rural Utilities Service grant in January while the school gave a $156,000 matching contribution. Other projects included refurbishing two bathrooms with paint and adding new partitions.

Dr. Phillipson said upgrades will continue in the future to maintain a modern look in the building.

“We’ve been doing different labs every year as far as upgrades,” he commented. “These are financed through our permanent improvement funds.”

Meanwhile, the JVS has 420 students enrolled this year with about 234 being incoming juniors. Officials said the number was the most the JVS had had in more than a decade, while Long noted that it was a positive sign for the school.  

                   

“The expected enrollment increase is fantastic news for us. It highlights the growing recognition of the value of career-technical education,” he said. “More students are understanding the benefits of our programs, and the stigma surrounding career-tech is gradually disappearing. It’s exciting to see more students and families appreciating what career technical education has to offer. We’re looking forward to another exciting school year with these new improvements enhancing our overall educational environment.”

Photo Caption: Jefferson County Joint Vocational School underwent a $136,000 upgrade this summer and outfitted several rooms and labs with new flooring, paint and furniture while the exterior received new blacktop at the school’s entrance. Costs were covered with permanent improvement funds while the interactive displays were part of a $1 million distance learning project financed through a USDA grant and local funding match. Pictured are juniors in the newly remodeled early childhood education program lab prepping the space for the start of preschool in mid-September.

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School is taking initial steps to cement its role as an Ohio Technical Center by adding an adult education director/grant writer’s position.

During the July 16 regular session, school board members discussed the post, which would include developing training courses to ready people for the workforce in a capacity beyond the vocational school concept. Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said plans are to advertise for the position at an upcoming session and fill the spot in the foreseeable future.

“It’s something I put down as a goal,” Dr. Phillipson told the board, adding that he’s sought information from surrounding sites pertaining to salary. “I did get information from Columbiana and I’m also trying to include grant writing. For me, it doesn’t affect the adult education coordinator. This gives us OTC status to teach adult ed programs.”

He said of the 49 joint vocational schools across Ohio, about 43 are OTC’s and Jefferson County JVS was among the latter.

“We’d be looking at being an OTC and holding more workforce development courses so people can transition to the workforce,” he continued. “It is more of a quasi-college education and is between career-tech and a community college.” 

He added that the impending closure of Eastern Gateway Community College and transition to Youngstown State University creates a major void the JVS could help fill for the local community. Dr. Phillipson said the new director would try to create new training services and more talks ensued about possible programs board members would like to see.

“I’d expect that if we put up the salary, we’d get it back tenfold,” said board Vice President Ron Smyth.

“They’d be worth it when they find grants,” added board member Barry Gullen, while board member Kim Mark agreed many grants were available.

Dr. Phillipson commented that certain programs could be included in the building plan, which in recent months leaders have discussed utilizing to expand healthcare and offer other programs, and officials on Tuesday suggested the potential for truck driving, landscape architecture to X-ray technician or respiratory therapy, if the latter was permissible under OTC guidelines.

“There are a lot of things we can do. There’s so much we can add on here, but we have to say, ‘Let’s do it,’” Mark noted. “We’re going to have to get on the bus here.”

Smyth said leaders could review it further as part of the building expansion plan and board President Steve Bezak III suggested conducting workshops over the next few months to brainstorm ideas. Member William Hendricks said officials should also think outside the box.

Following more talks, the board agreed to prepare an advertisement for the adult ed director/grant writer’s position for approval at the August meeting. In related matters, the board also approved a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for architectural design services for the building addition project as part of its long-term goal.

Among other action, the board:

BLOOMINGDALE-Jefferson County Joint Vocational School administration will remain in charge after having their contracts renewed.

     

The JVS school board agreed to give Principal Andy Long and Assistant Principal Gabrielle Wilson each two-year contracts during the May 21 regular session. Both Long and Wilson have served for the past two years and will start their new terms on Aug 1. Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said they were carrying the school forward.

   

“They both do a great job and I’m looking forward to working with them,” he added. “The school’s going in a great direction and that’s a testament to them.”

   

Long has been with the JVS for six years, beginning as a social studies teacher and eventually becoming an assistant principal. He was grateful for the support of the board and superintendent.

   

“I’m just thankful to Dr. Phillipson for recommending me and to the board for their support. I’m looking forward to two more great years.”

   

Wilson, who was not in attendance at the meeting, has been part of the school for the past two years.

 

Meanwhile, the board learned about projects set to occur over the summer break. Dr. Phillipson said the media center and early childhood education room will both undergo an estimated $125,000 upgrade.

   

“The media center will receive to interactive display televisions through the [$1 million USDA grant], carpeting and paint and we removed countertops for more space,” he explained. “The ECE room will have new flooring and cabinetry for storage, plus it will receive carpet, paint and a bathroom remodel.”

   

He noted that both rooms will receive Kinetics carpeting similar to what is in the cafeteria at a cost of $42,000.

 

More work includes touchups in the faculty restrooms with paint and new stalls for roughly $9,000 while space will be made for an English classroom and intervention specialist’s office in the ISS room.  Dr. Phillipson added that he received quotes from Cattrell Company to replace some interior doors in the future. Additionally, officials commented on the recently revamped board room which was completed by the carpentry and electrical trades students with more work by the maintenance workers.

   

The board also heard from JVS FFA Advisor Emily Moore and incoming club leaders about recent and upcoming events. Moore, President Kat Grizzel and Secretary Kate Cain said the organization held a banquet in the school commons on May 8 which drew about 110 people. Members were recognized with awards while officers were named for the 2024-25 term. Grizzel also announced that the FFA Veterinary Science team will return to the Massachusetts State Fair in Springfield this fall for a national competition. 

   

“In April, we went to the state competition and placed second. In September, we’ll get to go to the nationals at the Big E in Massachusetts,” she added. 

Last year’s team placed fourth and was among 18 states participating. Moore said it was also a chance to bond and she hoped to take the current group on some fun activities during the upcoming visit.

 

Among other matters, the board:

--Discussed ongoing plans for goals to carry the JVS forward;

--Approved its five-year forecast;

--Approved extended service time for guidance counselor Shellie Henderson, 80 hours. Officials also approved summer employment hours for Glen Zalenski, 10 hours; Diane Dalesio, Jamie Freeman, Kelly Grafton, A.J. Materna, Tammi Middleton and Brianne Schoolcraft, 20 hours; Buddy Davis and Dave Lucas, 40 hours; Becky Kelley and Lori Yanczura, 60 hours; and Shawn Zarych, 80 hours;

--Approved a one-year contract with Jefferson County ESC for a Mental Health Professional, through the assignment of Don Ogden, beginning Aug. 1, 2024, and ending July 31, 2025;

--Approved a contract with CHANGE, INC. for in-school nursing services for the 2024-25 school year;

 

--Approved the employment of Shaun Ford a math intervention specialist for the 2024-25 school year;

 

--Approved the hiring of William Trimmer as summer custodian for five hours per day on weekdays, effective June 3;

 

--Approved HOSA Advisor Tammy Sismondo and volunteer Ron Sismondo to take six students to the International HOSA Convention in Houston, Texas, on June 25-30;

 

--Approved the 2024-25 Student Handbook;

 

--Announced welding instructor Todd Parker will be recognized for 30 years of service;

 

--Set the next board meeting for June 25 at 5 p.m.

 

BLOOMINGDALE-Jefferson County Joint Vocational School highlighted graduating students during its Senior Recognition Ceremony on May 16.

More than 170 seniors received their Passports for completing programs at the Bloomingdale site as well as certifications and other accolades. Principal Andy Long welcomed attendants to the festivities, which were held in the school commons, and said it capped off a year of achievements.

“Tonight is a testament to the dedication...and hard work of the students. At Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, we’re not just about imparting knowledge, we are here to shape the future of tomorrow’s leaders,” Long said. “The world is eager for your ideas and passion.”

   

Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson thanked teachers, staff, JVS board members and families for supporting the students as they worked to reach their milestone and cited quotations from famous figures as well as some words of wisdom of his own.

   

“We are celebrating the accomplishments of these outstanding seniors. I am so proud of your accomplishments,” he said. “To the students who have to face challenges: With any change, there is an unknown world out there. Remember you have done this before. You have stepped out of your comfort zone and come to this point.”

   

Dr. Phillipson told students to be kind to people and go the extra mile to make someone’s day, just show up at work or life events and to not let failure stop them from meeting their goals.

   

Featured speakers included seniors Andrew Wetherell, Ian Hojonski and Camryn Fray, respectively students in power mechanics and computer networking, who shared words of optimism with their fellow graduates.

   Wetherell looked back on school events from field days to the connections made at the JVS.

   

“Now it is time to leave the halls of the Jefferson County JVS behind. We must remember...to use what we know to make a difference,” he said. 

   

Fray thanked the dedicated teachers and mentors who inspired them and the families for their encouragement. “You are the JVS and you have made the past two years the most amazing,” she said.

 

Hojonski closed by telling graduates to look forward to the future.

     

“As we prepare to leave, we must remember the future is ours to shape,” he continued. “It is now solely up to us...to never stop learning and growing. Embrace the challenges and let us follow our passions and pursue our dreams.”

   

Passports and certifications were distributed to the following: Craig (Tristin) Arnold, Jacob Berry, Alex Bowman, Noah Crawford, Kevin Daugherty Jr., Cayden Easton, Joseph Foust, Benjamin Fray, Richard Green, Luke Grimes, Nathan Long, Chase McFadden, Denvar Nelson, Ashley Newman, Brent Rayburn and Wyatt Scheel, electrical trades; Zoe Board, Chloe Brooks, Ashley Brown, Madison Cost, Vanessa Davis, Serenity Edwards, Caitlyn Hager, Kaitlyn Jarrell, Isabella Krulcik, Lexas Lashhorn, Lexie Reed and Hailey Wade, health technologies; Logan Cline, Nathan Crawford, Cory 

                                                                                      

Devore, Logan Hale, David Ketchum, Logan Kinkus, Blake Miller, Emma Rusciano, John-Victor Smith, Robert (R.J.) Stewart and Andrew Worwa, heavy equipment operation; Spencer Adams, Matthew Barnes, Thomas Burch, Kevin Campos, Alexander Carothers, Aiden Carte, Christopher Corona, Gabriella Diaz, Demarrihanna Harper, Jarryn Hill, Emma Long, Adam McCloud, Jason Nutter, Riley Stine, Lance Thornton and Kailyn Weaver, multimedia and design; Gabriel Bocek, Logan Fomenko, Reece Fomenko, Ian Hojonski, Jesse Meddles, Blake Moran, Dakota Moss, Kaylup Payne, Gavyn Romanyak, Brenden Simms, Landon Wertjes, Andrew Wetherell and Victoria White, power mechanics; Logan Briggs, Raymond Cooper, Bonnie Frattini, Jaxson Handzus, Patrick Kinney, Dianna McClelland, Caris Talbott, Matthew Tverbut and Jacob Wells, Transition To Work; Taylor Arnold, Hayden Binkiewicz, Jace Braun, Zane Cunningham, Ciara Goff, Terry (Tommy) Hanson, Joseph (J.D.) Koran, Hayden Maple, Revan Otto, Haleigh Quinn, Santino Scaffidi and Anthony Sipes, welding; Haylee Brown, Madison Brown, Jewelene Cunningham, Piper Cutri, Shelby Doty, Jonathon Eddy, Mekenzie Everhart, Kaylee Ferguson, Ericka Gibbons, Abbiegail Gregg, Rylee Heaton, Trinity McGilton, Olivia Menc, Isabella Polen, Maggie Sabo, Alexis Smith, Trinity Spencer and Mikah Supanik, animal science management; Logan Abercrombie, Dante Hicks, Lexis Kloeker, Donovan Poole, Joseph Porter, Brandon Thompson, Laela White, Michele Ziarko, auto collision; Damien Armbruster, Bradley Fallon, Ella Fray, Connor Gotschall, Jacob Hooper, Alexander Horvath, Robert Keenan, Aydin Lawson, Andrew Porter, Dallas Sproull, Ryan Stigler and Zachary Vojvodich, auto service technologies; David Kelley, Nathan Mills, Gavin Morris, Devon Riggs, Marty Shrock and Alex Simpson, carpentry; Seth Bowman, Camryn Fray, Blaze Hatch, Ronald Hawthorne, Charles Johnston, Kacey Kale, Christian Rice, Landon Sgalla, Jordan Stackhouse and Austin Stevens, computer networking; Autumn Carmichael, Destiny Gaffney, Melania Haynes, Laelani King, Kyra Magazzeni, Danielle McGraw, Jessica Phillips, Paris Quick, Elizabeth Sammut, Kyley Sherbondy, Brooke Sullivan, Zoe Truax, cosmetology; Aubrie Bane, Autumn Brown, Hayden Caldwell, T Donahue, Joshua Earich, Kaedyn Ellison, Ireland Emery, Cameron Mellonkopf, Ryan Scott, Faith Stewart, Zackery Strauss and Cesar Vaca, criminal justice; and Sharolyn Brookes, Brandon Garcia, Abbigail (Abby) Keenan, Bronc Talley, Alexis Wells and Shelley Young, culinary arts; and Alexis (Lexy) Beebe, Alaina Ensminger, Paige Furbee and Shyann Higgins, early childhood education.

   

The evening also included the disbursement of the Blaner Gift, the Mike “Mags” Cicone Scholarship, Frank Colalella Charitable Foundation Scholarship, Geno Morelli Memorial Scholarship, Rick Finney Memorial Scholarship, Borden Office Equipment Award, Dr. Tom and Suzanne Brown Scholarship, American Red Cross Blood Drive Scholarship, Kathleen Howell Scholarship, Christopher Sprouse Scholarship, Tony D’Aurora Memorial Scholarship, Dr. David Robinson Scholarship, JCJVS Teachers’ Association Scholarship, I Can Succeed, Harry E. Scott Memorial Scholarship, Weirton Lumber Company Scholarship, Charles M. Pugliese and Thelma M. Pugliese Charitable Foundation Scholarship, Dixie Saltsman Scholarship, Louise Snyder Scholarship and the Bergholz Community Foundation Scholarship.

 

Meanwhile, vocational and academic awards for excellence and distinction were given. Recipients of the awards for excellence included Logan Abercrombie, auto collision; Bradley Fallon, AST; David Kelley, carpentry; Camryn Fray, computer networking; Kyra Magazzeni, cosmetology; Ireland Emery, criminal justice; Abbigail Keenan, culinary arts; Paige Furbee, ECE; Brent Rayburn, electrical trades; Lexas Lashhorn, health tech; Jason Nutter, MAD; Andrew Wetherell, power mechanics; Haylee Brown, animal science; Raymond Cooper, TTW; and Hayden Binkiewicz, welding; Among the academic honorees were Zachary Vojvodich and Shelley Young, intervention; Ciara Goff, Andrew Wetherell and David Kelley, mathematics; Nathan Mills, science; Ryan Stigler, physics; Emma Long, forensic science; Revan Otto, chemistry; Zoe Truax and Brooke Sullivan, social studies; and Rylee Heaton, English. Those who received awards of distinction included Lexis Kloeker, auto collision; Damien Armbruster, AST; Gavin Morris, carpentry; Charles Johnston, computer networking; Elizabeth Sammut, cosmetology; Aubrie Bane, criminal justice; Bronc Talley, culinary arts; Alaina Ensminger, ECE; Nathan Long, electrical trades; Chloe Brooks, health tech; Kevin Campos, MAD; Gabriel Bocek, power mechanics; Jonathan Eddy, animal science; Matthew Tverbut, TTW; and Zane Cunningham, welding. Academic honorees were David Kelley and Shyann Higgins, intervention; Danielle McGraw, Lexas Lashhorn and John-Victor Smith, mathematics; Ashley Brown, science; Cameron Mollenkopf, chemistry; Alexander Horvath, physics; T Donahue, forensic science; Jason Nutter and Jessica Phillips, social studies’ and Rylee Heaton, English.

 

Also recognized were National Technical Honor Society members including Wyatt Scheel, Brent Rayburn, Ashley Brown, Lexas Lashhorn, Matthew Barnes, Ian Hojonski, Andrew Wetherell, Ciara Goff, Anthony Sipes, Madison Brown, Jewelene Cunningham, Bradley Fallon, Elizabeth Sammut, Abby Keenan and Bronc Talley as well as Sources of Strength members Jessica Phillips, Seth Bowman, Faith Stewart, Noah Crawford, Kevin Campos, Matthew Barnes, Ella Fray, Ronald Hawthorne, Maggie Sabo, Serenity Edwards, Blake Miller, Riley Stine, Madison Cost, Lexas Lashhorn, Jason Nutter, Lance Thornton, Logan Briggs and Gabriella Diaz. Finally, Andrew Wetherell and Robert Stewart were lauded for perfect attendance while Hayden Maple was touted for earning an associate’s degree in welding from Eastern Gateway Community College.

                                                                                     

BLOOMINGDALE-Jefferson County Joint Vocational School students joined college pupils for the Youngstown State University 5G Readiness training program on the future of communication.

   The JVS hosted the session on April 29, which was sponsored by the Wireless Infrastructure Association in partnership with the university. According to the YSU website, it is a first-of-its-kind training course that equips students with the competencies that are required to design and deploy broadband infrastructure and YSU is only one of two schools in Ohio to power this program. Through its partnership with WIA, the training provides courses about the wireless industry and 5G technology, governance and future applications. It is a beginner-level course for individuals seeking entry-level employment, specifically in telecommunications. 

   WIA instructor Bryon Huyett led the activity with other attendants, including Brookville High School senior Anthony Reiter and YSU students Emilie Blissenbach Raschilla, Forrest Raschilla and Gabriel Raschilla, while university program managers Chris Riedel and Sherri Downey were also on hand. Seniors Seth Bowman and Camryn Fray, who take part in the JVS’s computer networking technologies program, said they plan to enter the field after graduation and learned a lot from the session.

   “It’s an educational program used to teach about cell towers, networking and radio frequencies,” said Bowman. “It’s all about wireless internet and we’re going through the training to learn the tools and concepts of it. It’s been great with the opportunities and we have gotten industrial credentials,” Bowman said.

   “It’s about wireless communication but leaning towards the 5G internet and future of it,” Fray added. “It also talks about the history of communication. It’s nice to have a way to further your career.”   

   “The program goes over 5G and high-speed data for cellular and wireless mobility,” Huyett explained, adding that it is used by Verizon, AT&T and other companies.

   He said he worked with YSU and Ashland University and communication is a rapidly evolving industry.

   “It’s always growing. Communication has been a growing field for a long time,” Huyett noted.

     JVS guidance counselor Shellie Henderson said the university reached out to her last year seeking involvement in the program, then she approached the CNT lab seeking participants. Bowman and Fray, who both attend Indian Creek High School, have taken part since winter, completing online tasks and meetings prior to the in-person session with Huyett. At the conclusion, they will obtain certification to work in the communication field. Bowman hopes to obtain an apprenticeship after graduation and Fray plans to attend YSU to gain an education in networking.

   Supervisor/Principal Andy Long said it was another way to prepare students for the workforce.

   “The YSU 5G Readiness Training Program offers comprehensive courses covering the wireless industry and 5G technology, preparing students for entry-level positions in telecommunications,” Long said. “It's inspiring to see our students engaging with cutting-edge technology and equipping themselves with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. This accomplishment underscores our commitment to providing students with opportunities for growth and success in emerging fields. I believe initiatives like the YSU 5G Readiness Training Program are instrumental in preparing our students for the workforce of tomorrow.”

(Photo Caption: Jefferson County Joint Vocational School seniors Camryn Fray and Seth Bowman, in foreground, look on as instructor Bryon Huyett leads 5G Readiness training session at the JVS on April 29. The event was in partnership with Youngstown State University and the Wireless Infrastructure Association and also included students from YSU and Brookville High School.) 

BLOOMINGDALE-Jefferson County Joint Vocational School welcomed incoming juniors and their families during the annual open house on April 3.

   Dozens of families appeared to meet instructors, tour the facility and learn about programs the students plan to attend this fall. The school provides 16 hands-on courses, including animal science management, auto body collision, auto service technology, carpentry, computer network technologies, cosmetology, criminal justice, culinary arts, early childhood education, electrical trades, health technologies, heavy equipment operator, multimedia and design, power mechanics, Transition To Work and welding. 

   School officials are anticipating its largest junior class to date and were pleased to see people attend the open house for a preview.

   “It’s an opportunity for prospective students and their families to come visit our campus, meet their instructors, tour the facility and ask questions,” said Supervisor/Principal Andy Long. “The number of attendants varies from year to year and we were hoping to get at least 200 people.”

   “It’s our biggest number of juniors,” added guidance counselor Shellie Henderson, adding that 275 students were expected for enrollment. “Almost every program is full and this is the first year where we’ve had kids on a waiting list. I think everyone understands that career education is the way to go right now.”

   Guests also learned about industrial credentials and how the JVS could help their child reach their graduation pathway and Henderson answered questions about College Credit Plus for those interested in carrying on their education at a post-secondary institution.

   Students learned about the programs which appealed to them and said they were eager to begin in August.

   “When I got the letter, I felt like I got a scholarship,” said James Presley, a student at Toronto High School who plans to attend the welding program. “I really like the atmosphere. When I heard about it, I was interested. I can’t wait to come here.”

    Indian Creek High School student Kamryn Wood was weighing her options and viewed the early childhood education classroom, among others.

   “I think kids are interesting and I want to learn more here, too,” Wood added.

   She noted that the JVS also helps her expand her horizons and get a jumpstart on her career.

   Troy Stewart, who serves as business representative for Local 186 Indiana Kentucky Ohio Regional Council of Carpenters (IKORCC) of Youngstown, which also has a site in Steubenville, spoke to students in the carpentry program and said the JVS was a gateway to the future.

   “The JVS is a career connection school,” Stewart added, saying it prepared students for the workforce. “They are direct entry into jobs and apprenticeships. It’s a great way to give back to the community and the kids can stay and work here.”

    Those who did not attend the open house but have questions may contact Henderson at [email protected].

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School is updating technology throughout its facilities for distance learning and modern educational instruction.

   Technology Coordinator Ron Peach said installation was underway at the site in Bloomingdale, which will be equipped with interactive television screens and other technology for networking. Earlier this year, the school received $854,842 under the Fiscal Year 2023 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program that is administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service. The JVS provided a 15-percent match—or roughly $156,800—for a total of $1,011,647.

  The grant will connect the JVS to other educational institutions but also offer high-tech supports for networking. Peach said classrooms and labs can connect to other schools and universities and similar capabilities will be available in the cafeteria and training room.

  “We’ve had the equipment for about two or three months and began installing over Easter break,” he added. “The whole purpose is so we can do outreach with other schools and have guest speaker who aren’t even onsite.”

    The commons area now features two large screens and two laser projectors as well as cameras, microphones and speakers for online interaction. The system is controlled by a touchscreen panel in the room and the equipment can be used for other events such as school assemblies and senior recognition ceremonies. Peach added that classrooms and labs will also have interactive screens for educational use.

   “The culinary arts program partnered with West Virginia Northern Community College’s culinary arts program and will have a guest chef speaking to students while criminal justice will partner with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Cosmetology is partnered with Salon Centric and health technologies will be partnered with St. Louis University School of Medicine,” he continued. “The sheriff’s office and partner schools will get equipment for remote learning while St. Louis University has its own.”

   Peach said the installations will continue over summer break and each classroom can take part in distance learning in addition to in-class lessons. The criminal justice classroom already has been outfitted with two 99-inch touchscreen televisions and six speakers and instructor Jamie Freeman plans to take full advantage of the technology to prepare her students for the workforce.

   “It’s pretty cool and actually very easy to use,” said Freeman. “The kids really seem to like it.”

   The goal is to enhance instruction for students in all academic and vocational programs, from core subjects to the JVS’s 16 hands-on courses: animal science management, auto body collision, auto service technology, carpentry, computer network technologies, cosmetology, criminal justice, culinary arts, early childhood education, electrical trades, health technologies, heavy equipment operator, multimedia and design, power mechanics, Transition To Work and welding. 

BLOOMINGDALE-Early childhood education students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School earned medals during the Region II Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) competition.

  Seven members of the school FCCLA chapter competed in six individual and team categories at the Coshocton County Career Center on March 9 and brought home gold and silver medals for their efforts. Advisor Rebecca Kelley was pleased with the results and said four of them will advance to the Ohio FCCLA State Leadership Conference events in Columbus.

  “They did very well,” she said. “There are about 20 schools in the region and several hundred students [at the recent competition].”

   Categories included language and literacy, where contestants had to read a book and complete an extension activity; curriculum unit, where competitors completed six lesson plans with children and made a presentation; early childhood education, where contestants created a portfolio and had 20 minutes to prepare a lesson plan and presentation; and lesson presentation, where they chose a theme, prepared a lesson and made a presentation. Medalists included senior Alaina Ensminger, gold, and junior Claire Watkins, silver, for language and literacy; junior Kaley Beebe-Joynson, gold, and senior Shyann Higgins, silver, for curriculum unit; senior Paige Furbee, silver, for early childhood education; and the team of juniors Raeni Kerr and Hannah Sherbondy, gold, for lesson presentation.

  Kelley said the top 10 contestants in the state from each region will move on to the Ohio FCCLA Leadership Conference on April 25-26 in Kasich Hall at the Ohio Expo in Columbus. Final results were announced March 20 and JVS contenders include Alaina Ensminger and Paige Furbee and the team of Raeni Kerr and Hannah Sherbondy.

   “I’m proud of them,” Kelley noted. “They all worked hard and it was a successful time at the regionals.”

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Board of Education is taking preliminary steps to outline its future goals when it comes to educating tomorrow’s workforce.

  Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson unveiled a draft of career-technical planning district (CTPD) vision goals with a plan to be “a caring, innovative, and inspiring career-technical school for all students.”

   He shared a list of core values including tradition, diversity and innovation, inclusion and equity, care and compassion, integrity and respect and excellence. Among its goals is to provide high-quality career and technical programs for all students through quality instruction, technology, and high expectations and to serve the students first; to provide improved delivery of services for special education students; provide College Credit Plus courses for the students at JVS; to expand the subdivision at the JVS for the benefit of students in carpentry, electrical trades, heavy equipment and other programs, where applicable; to promote the safety of students, building design utilization and program offerings...by expanding the building; to expand adult education into an Ohio Technical Center service provider; and to use school resources in the most responsible manner for the success of the students.

   Dr. Phillipson noted that most of the goals could take place within the next year with the subdivision expansion requiring approval by the county regional planning board and commissioners, followed by approval of contractors by the school board. Meanwhile, the building expansion goal would take three to four years with the passage of a bond issue unless a grant became available. Offerings there could include a health academy to courses for a pole lineman or machine trades. Additionally, the adult education goal would require hiring an administrative position to work exclusively on expanding adult education services to OTC status, accreditation and all associated services.

   It concluded with keys to success, which include communication and collaboration between the board, administration, community stakeholders and staff on a shared vision; policies and governance by collaborating with the board to implement a shared vision and move the district forward toward goals; instruction to promote high achievement for all students by analyzing data and reviewing research-based best practices for curriculum design and instruction; and resources by supporting instruction, time, technology and services for the benefit of students and staff.

   Dr. Phillipson also elaborated on the courses, saying the health academy could offer state-tested nurse’s aide (STNA) and similar classes for juniors while seniors could select their pathways.

   “They could go into nursing or pharmacy tech and you’d move on to the senior year for their path,” he said.

   Officials said there may be other suggestions made to the plan and they could discuss it further.

   “[Board President Steve Bezak III] and I talked,” said board vice president Ron Smyth. “I feel as a board we can use this as a basis. If this needs to be modified, we need to make everybody aware. One thing that was mentioned was first responders, and I think there’s a void out there for firemen and EMT’s. We can start thinking about it. We’ve got a baseline down and I think we can work from it.”

   Bezak said discussion could continue as a board or in committees which would then come together with the same vision.

   “I think this is the beginning of it,” he added. 

   Following more discussion, the board agreed to review it further and talk again next month.

   Leaders then heard an update on enrollment for the next year, which is expected to increase substantially for the junior class. Dr. Phillipson said 270 juniors and 171 seniors were anticipated to attend for the 2024-25 school term, showing an increase of about 60 juniors on the roster.

   “It’s a good problem to have to try to squeeze in schedules,” he said.

   Supervisor/Principal Andy Long noted that an open house and parent-teacher conference night was set for April 3 from 3:15-6:15 p.m. and would allow incoming students and their families to view the facilities and meet instructors.

  Among other action, the board:

--Heard from Reno Contipelli, northeast regional manager for the Ohio School Boards Association, who presented a Distinguished Board Member certificate to Bezak for 10 years of service on the board. Contipelli added that plans were in the works to meet in the area since many of the local counties had to travel more than an hour to Cleveland. The group will include the executive director, legislative lobbyist and membership;

--Toured the modular home constructed by the carpentry program, which included assistance from electrical trades students and professionals. Instructor Dave Lucas said flooring, cabinets and other work was still needed but the structure should be complete by the end of the current school year;

--Agreed to post positions for an English instructor and math and science intervention specialists;

--Hired Lou DeChristopher was hired as a part-time building cleaner;

--Approved a $3,237 payment to Vincent Dowdle and Associates, LLC, for the Breezewood Manor Addition survey;

--Approved the paving, sealing and striping of two areas by Blackie & Son Excavating and Paving for $23,283.75;

--Approved the purchase of an adult simulator from Gaumard for the health technologies program at a cost of $65,492. The apparatus will be funded through a grant from the Mary Jane Brooks Charitable Trust;

--Approved a memorandum of understanding with Belmont College for College Credit Plus;

--Set the next meeting for April 16 at 5 p.m.

BLOOMINGDALE-Students are finding a connection with each other and their school through one organization at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.

    Sources of Strength (SoS) is a global mental health and suicide prevention initiative and students serve as peer leaders spreading hope, help and strength. The JVS established an organization last spring and junior and senior members were nominated to participate by staff members. They underwent training to understand how they can support teens facing physical, emotional and mental health issues and thoughts of suicide and the goal of the outreach is to spread positivity and share resources so those in need get help. Since being formed, members created a bulletin board and a community table in the cafeteria, supported the Sandy Hook Promise with “Say Hello Week” and initiated ideas for the 2023-24 school year. Most recent projects included a duct tape fundraiser and sales of Christmas Candy Cane Grams plus roses, suckers and box hearts for Valentine’s Day. 

    Supervisor/Assistant Principal Gabrielle Wilson and mental health counselor Don Ogden are co-advisors of the group and said the peer leaders are dedicated to leaving their mark of joy and belonging at the JVS.

    “The program is about finding a way to focus on strength and joy and to spread your strength and joy to others so they can find their own,” Wilson said. “Last year’s group took a leadership role and did an emotional dive. The training brought out their struggles and this year’s group has put their ideas into action.”

    She said SoS held candy gram fundraisers and students paid $1 to duct tape special education aide Jamie Spencer to a wall, and plans are in the works to hold a Color Bash miniature color run this spring on campus. All of the proceeds will fund future activities and Wilson said the organization’s efforts have gained positive feedback from students and staff members alike.

    Ogden said it has also given students an opportunity to get the support they need in trying times.

    “I think the outreach has brought awareness, and we’re aware and do things to reach out to the students in need,” he added. “The Sources of Strength students have done a good job helping others make a connection and it reduces incidents of self-harm and suicide. The members have shown a lot of courage and compassion and that they are willing to take that role and be a resource for other students in need.”

    Seth Bowman and Jason Nutter respectively serve as president and vice president with Alexis Knight as secretary and Brooke Scharfenberg as treasurer, while Scharfenberg will also serve as president next year.  Officials said the membership has doubled since SoS was created and it currently includes Jessica Phillips, Faith Stewart, Matthew Barnes, Kevin Campos, Noah Crawford, Gabriella Diaz, Ella Fray, Ronald Hawthorne, Maggie Saho, Serenity Edwards, Blake Miller, Riley Stine, Katelynn Mavromatis, Madison Cost, Lexas Lashhorn and Lily Larkins. Plans are also set to recruit juniors over the next month to carry on SoS’s mission.

      Bowman, a senior in the computer networking technologies program, and Nutter, a senior in the multimedia and design program, said the activities build a sense of community within the school.

  “The group is a collective of students that tries to encourage fun and positivity, as well as to connect people in companionship,” said Bowman. “I think it’s gone very well. People have responded well very well and it seems like it’s making many people happier.”

    Nutter agreed that it provides something positive for everyone.                                            

    “People have fun and seem to enjoy it a lot. They have more school spirit or feel connected to the school,” he commented. “I think the closer we work with the organization, the clearer the mission is to spread strength.”

    More ideas include a “Rock, Paper, Scissors” contest around St. Patrick’s Day and an Eastertime egg hunt to win prizes, including Talon Tokens to earn goodies from the Transition To Work program’s Soaring Eagle Café.

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School may get a new look as officials consider revamping the building.

   During Tuesday’s regular session, Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said he attended an Ohio Facilities Commission meeting last week and he was eying improvements to the front area of the building for safety purposes. In addition to altering the entrance, he had several ideas including adding space for new programs, moving current programs and moving the front office. He then asked board members for their thoughts on speaking with an architect. 

   Dr. Phillipson said one possibility was relocating the Crestview Inn Café, which is operated through the culinary arts program. He said patrons of the restaurant either use the front entrance or access the rear of the building where the eatery is currently located. He said by moving that site, it could improve accessibility and ease some security issues.

  “We have difficult access for people to come eat. Maybe if we move the space and use [the current space] for classrooms. People have an issue with coming through the front of the building or going through the back.”

   Board member Toni Dondzila wondered if it was a safety issue and talks ensued. Dr. Phillipson said it basically was a matter of access, then opined that moving the café would also provide it with brand-new amenities such as kitchen. The present restaurant recently completed upgrades to the dining area, including flooring, windows, doors, furniture and cabinetry. It also hosted the evening’s meeting with students preparing and serving dinner to officials in a belated celebration of School Board Appreciation Month, which was held in January.

   Following more discussion, Dr. Phillipson was reviewing it further.

   “We want to look at improving the safety out there and to change the front entrance for getting into the building,” he later said. “We’re looking at moving offices in the main building and looking a possibly adding classrooms to our program.”

   In other business, Dr. Phillipson updated the board approaching the Jefferson County Regional Planning Commission with plans to expand residences in the Breezewood Subdivision. He said preliminary drawings were nearly complete and he would approach officials with ideas to expand the Cul de sac and add 10 more homes to the area which would be constructed by students. Carpentry, electrical trades and now heavy equipment students could build the new houses with some involvement by professionals for the foreseeable future.

   Meanwhile, health technologies instructor Tammy Sismondo and several of her students highlighted the board on recent happenings in the program. Sismondo said the Health Occupations of America (HOSA) Future Health Professionals regional competition which was set for Buckeye Career Center the previous weekend had been canceled due to inclement weather, but students excelled on the written portion and several earned top spots. She noted that the CPR teams placed first, second and third while the nurse assisting students tied for first place and a junior was second. Others earned first through fourth place in their respective categories and the group is looking to move on to the state event in Columbus this spring.

   Senior health tech students Natalie Cost, Ashley Brown, Zoe Board and Lexas Lashhorn also discussed their trip to the HOSA Leadership Academy in Washington, D.C., this fall along with classmate Serenity Edwards, who was absent from the meeting. The students led a presentation and spoke about meeting officials, attending conferences and touring the nation’s capital during their stay.

  “It was a really amazing experience,” said Cost. “You made it possible for us.”

  “It had people from New York [to] Florida,” added Brown. “It was interesting to see the diversity.”

  Lashhorn said they attended conferences and toured Washington, which she enjoyed.

  “We met a whole lot of people and I just enjoyed exploring Washington, D.C.,” she commented. “It was an amazing opportunity.”

   Board mentioned they visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, took night tours and saw a host of places.

   “We rode buses to see around D.C. and visited the Martin Luther King Jr. statue, the Washington Monument and the Korean War Memorial. It was a very eye-opening experience.”

    They were also thankful to Sismondo and the board for the opportunities they have received through the JVS. The board members were impressed with the presentation and noted their enthusiasm that the students would be future health care providers. 

   “We’re very proud of you,” said board member Ron Smyth. “This is what our kids are doing...and it’s outstanding.”

   At the conclusion, the board briefly ventured into the health tech lab where students showed them the high-tech Anatomage table they received last year to learn their skills. The table comes complete with programs on various systems within the body and gives pupils a close-up view of nerves, organs and injuries to help prepare them for a career.

BLOOMINGDALE-Students at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School learned the importance of staying safe behind wheel following a special presentation on Jan. 26.

   The school’s Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), which includes students in the early childhood education program, hosted a presentation by representatives of State Farm Insurance and the Ohio State Highway Patrol and conducted exercises using simulation goggles to depict intoxication. Advisor and ECE instructor Becky Kelley said the event was made possible through Families Acting for Community Traffic Safety (FACTS) grants.

   “We got two grants, one for each chapter,” Kelley said, adding that the junior and senior groups each received a $1,250 allocation for safety programs. “The first was for impaired driving and [State Farm Agent] Casie Johnson attended with Katie Rawson and Rebecca Blankenship and Trooper Josh O’Donnell of the Ohio State Highway Patrol in Wintersville. They basically had a presentation on ‘See Something, Say Something’ and the dangers of impaired driving.”

   About 50 students in the ECE, animal science and criminal justice programs then had a chance to wear impairment goggles to simulate states of intoxication. The eyewear altered their vision and made tasks difficult to complete, such as stacking cups, tossing a ball, walking on a balance beam and completing an obstacle course under Trooper O’Donnell’s supervision. Criminal justice students also addressed the importance of seat belts and conducted a seat belt challenge where teams of four people raced to buckle up the quickest. Kelley said it was a fun learning experience.

   “They had a lot of fun and it sparked an interest in seatbelts. We might do a school-wide challenge with a presentation on seatbelts when the weather improves.”

    Alaina Ensminger and Paige Furbee, seniors in the ECE program, agreed that they learned a lot through the event.

   “It taught us the impact of how hard a car hits when you crash and the dangers of eating and talking on the phone [behind the wheel,” said Ensminger.

   “It taught us that anything can happen and you shouldn’t drive while distracted,” Furbee added. “The littlest thing can cause an accident and if you are not paying attention, another driver can hit you.”

  This was the fourth year the FCCLA obtained the grants and the school chapters previously used FACTS and other grants to spotlight vehicle and seatbelt safety. FACTS is a national FCCLA peer education program to support the enforcement of local rules and regulations regarding community traffic safety and State Farm Insurance is a grant sponsor.

BLOOMINGDALE-The Crestview Inn Café is getting ready to relaunch for the Lenten season and provide delicious meals for the public.

   The student-run eatery based at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School in Bloomingdale will officially reopen on Feb. 15 and 16 with weekly Fish Fry Fridays also available for takeout. 

   Culinary arts instructor Glen Zalenski said dry runs were being held Feb. 8 and 9, but the dining room will be fully operational on Feb. 15 and 16 and will then be open each Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

  The Lenten menu features tuna fish salad, fish filet sandwich, tuna melt, pasta marinara, fish filet dinner and popcorn shrimp dinner and prices range from $6 to $11. Among the sides are French fries, onion rings, cole slaw, side salad, hush puppies, the vegetable of the day and soup, plus homemade dessert from cream to crusted pies and cheesecake will be offered. Zalenski said dishes will change on the menu over time.

  “We may add meals. As the students get more accustomed, the menu will expand and change.”

   Nine students will man the restaurant and perform serving and cooking duties, plus there are some special additions to the venue.  

   “At the end of the month, we’ll bring our Espresso and Cappuccino machine in and have fresh coffee by grinding our own beans,” he added. “We upgraded our beverage section and can serve desserts in the dining room since we have a refrigerator, plus we redid the point of sales system.”

   The restaurant will also showcase its newly remodeled space after receiving new carpeting, furniture, cabinets, equipment, windows and door after completing an estimated $30,000 upgrade. Contractors for the project included Cattrell Companies, Inc., of Toronto with flooring from Smitty’s Wholesale Carpet Warehouse of Steubenville, furnishings and equipment from National Equipment Co. of Wheeling and windows by Steubenville Plate and Window Glass Corp and work began over the summer.

    Dine in and takeout are available for both the regular menu and the annual Fish Fry Fridays that start on Feb. 16. The latter dinners are served from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and cost $11. They include fried fish or popcorn shrimp, French fries or onion rings, hush puppies, cole slaw or tossed salad, bread and tartar or cocktail sauce. 

    Zalenski said the fish frys have been consistently more successful and he hoped to see it grow even more this year.

  Takeout orders can be picked up at the restaurant in the rear of the building. Both reservations for small groups and orders can be made by calling (740) 264-5545, Ext. 602.

(Photo Caption: The Crestview Inn Café at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School will fully relaunch on Feb. 15 and offer a Lenten menu three days a week in addition to the annual Fish Fry Fridays. The restaurant runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with fish fry orders starting at 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For reservations, orders and information, call (740) 264-5545, Ext. 602. Pictured are Brandon Garcia and Sharolyn Brooks cutting mushrooms in the foreground and Bronc Talley readying onions in the back.) 

BLOOMINGDALE-The health technologies program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School is adding some high-tech equipment to make student learning even more realistic.

   The program recently received a $65,371 grant from the Mary Jane Brooks Charitable Trust and plans to use the windfall to procure a HAL nursing patient simulator. The lifelike mannequin features programs to mimic a variety of conditions and students can practice EKG, blood pressure, pulse and respirations, plus they can perform CPR and obtain feedback from the machine.

   “Students can learn to recognize problems including acute sepsis, atrial fibrillation, COPD exacerbation, opioid overdose, diabetic ketoacidosis and a pulmonary embolism,” she continued. “These are all learning experiences for the students.”

   The simulator is wireless and fully responsive, giving Sismondo’s pupils real-world experiences as they prepare for careers in the health field.

   “The purpose of the simulator is to inspire patient outcomes for everyone. It’s an excellent learning tool for the students and they will receive safe and effective learning opportunities in a safe environment,” Sismondo said. “They will learn to give direct patient care. Hopefully by practicing, they will learn to recognize and be proactive when they are caring for patients.”

   It is the second time the program has benefitted from the charitable trust organization since gaining $71,000 in 2022 for an Anatomage table in the lab. The six-foot-long table features a dual touchscreen surface which gives students a 3-D view of the various organs and system functions of the human body, plus users can view more than 1,300 clinical cases from brain aneurysms to tumors as well as X-rays and virtual autopsies. It also includes quizzes and games as well as images of animals that can be used for instruction in the animal science program. Additionally, officials acquired a large television screen to project the images and the equipment includes curriculum to aid instruction.

   Sismondo was thankful for the allocation and hoped to have the HAL simulator by the end of the school year.

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Board of Education wound things down with the final meeting of 2023.

  During its Dec. 19 session, the board filled the last space for the adult education program with the hiring of Carole Dunfee as part-time receptionist. Dunfee received a one-year limited contract beginning on Jan. 9 and replaces Aubri Waggoner, who recently succeeded longtime program coordinator Rich Wilinski following his resignation in October. 

  Waggoner, who was hired at the November meeting, is a familiar face at the JVS after holding various substitute staff positions through the years. Wilinski had recommended her for the coordinator’s post and said she would bring fresh ideas and more public involvement in adult ed classes. On a related note, the board accepted the list of instructors, courses and hours for the 2024 Winter Term beginning on Jan. 16 and agreed to advertise classes in the local media.

   Among other action, the board:

--Heard the school has been conducting safety drills, including tabletop scenarios and fire drills;

--Watched a video on Sources of Strength, a teen-based organization started at the school with members nominated by teachers. It is a universal suicide prevention program which combines adult advisors with peer leaders to empower fellow students. It builds positive influences to reduce the likelihood of suicide but also touches upon bullying, violence and substance abuse;

--Heard from Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson that a stakeholder’s meeting was held Dec. 11 to work towards Perkins Grant funding for the next two years;

--Approved Animal Science instructor Emily Moore to be moved from Class IV to Class V with the treasurer to place on appropriate step, based on letter and completion of college credit;

--Approved Melissa Zifzal on a teacher contract for the remainder of the 2023-24 school year;

--Approved payment to instructor Andrew Connor for a financial literacy course;

--Approved a change to the classified salary grid for cashier, clerk receptionist, and students due to Ohio’s minimum wage increase;

--Approved the purchase of a video wall package from Brightlink for the cafeteria/commons area; 

--Accepted a donation from Earl Trikones for the welding program; 

--Named board President Steve Bezak III as President Pro Tempore to oversee the organizational meeting on Jan. 16 at 5 p.m. with the regular session to immediately follow.

BLOOMINGDALE-The latest blood drive at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School was a successful draw, yielding more than 50 registered donors on Halloween.

  In-school and community members gathered at the health technologies lab on Oct. 31 to help others in their time of great need as the health tech program and American Red Cross collaborated on the event. Program students registered and assisted donors while Red Cross medical personnel oversaw the collection. In the end, the viable blood was taken to the Red Cross’s Johnstown facility to be processed and sent to hospitals. Organizers said the current need was critical and every bit made a difference.

   “We had 53 registered,” said senior health tech student Caitlyn Hager, who coordinated the blood drive. “The purpose of the blood drive is to get students and people in the community to give blood because there’s a critical shortage right now.”

   She said the donations remained steady throughout the day and officials hoped to obtain as many units as possible to build a supply. Program instructor Tammy Sismondo said the volunteer response was larger than previous events.

   “It’s probably the most we’ve had,” Sismondo said. “We had a great number of signups from the public and the students.”

    Among them were first-time and repeat donors, with one giving nearly three-dozen times. Brian Jung of Carrollton said he has rolled up his sleeve 32 times because his blood can help many people.

    “I have O-negative and CMV-negative blood, so I can give to babies and AIDS and cancer patients,” Jung said. “I get a lot of calls to give blood and I try to do it regularly.”

     Zoe Board, a senior in the health tech program, said she has given three times because she wants to help.

   “I thought it was fun to watch people and know that giving blood can save somebody,” she said. “I donated to help my brother’s Boy Scout leader who has leukemia. It’s for a good cause. It’s a good thing to give and know you are going to help people.”

    “It helps people and saves lives,” commented Autumn Brown, a senior criminal justice student and three-time contributor.

    First-timers Connor Gotschall, Mia Myers, Danielle Howard and Ryan Scott agreed it was a great thing to do.

   “I wanted to do it last year,” said Gotschall, a senior in the auto service program. “I feel good. You can help somebody who needs it.”

   “I wanted to have the opportunity to help someone because they need it,” added Myers, a junior in the electrical trades program.

   “It’s something new,” added Howard, who is a junior in the criminal justice program at JVS. She said she liked helping others.

   “I did it because I thought it would be fun,” noted Scott, a senior criminal justice student.

    In addition to filling the need, graduating health tech students are eligible to receive American Red Cross scholarships. The program has hosted biannual collections until COVID preempted efforts in 2020, but the campaign was restarted last year. Organizers said at least one more collection is being eyed in 2024. 

BLOOMINGDALE-Jefferson County Joint Vocational School students are celebrating a fourth-place win following a national FFA competition.

   The school’s FFA Veterinary Science Team earned honors at the 2023 FFA Days event in Springfield, Mass., on Sept. 15-17, where they competed against 18 other states at the Massachusetts State Fair known as “The Big E.” Advisor Emily Moore joined members Mekenzie Everhart, Madison Brown and Alexis Smith at the regular JVS Board of Education meeting on Tuesday to share the good news while fellow teammate Trinity McGilton was not in attendance.

   It was the team’s first foray to the nationals after gaining second place at the Ohio FFA Veterinary Science Competition this spring in Columbus. Moore, who also instructs the animal science management program at JVS, said the team joined other second-place winners from across the nation in individual and team contests on such topics as equipment and breed identification, skills demonstration and written and math exams. The scores were then combined to determine overall totals. 

   “I took four girls and they competed in the veterinary science competition, and they did very well,” Moore told officials. “We all had a really great experience.”

   Everhart, Brown and Smith highlighted activities and said they were excited to not only attend but also earn a top spot.

  “We started with a math exam,” said Everhart. “We moved on to parasites, breeds and veterinary equipment identification and then a team activity [on] horse wellness. Then there was a written exam and we had to answer 50 questions in 30 minutes.”

   “On Saturday, we went to the awards and found out we got fourth out of 18 states,” added Smith.

   “We went to the fair and competed, and we also got to see the Budweiser Clydesdales, go to shops and view animals,” commented Brown.

   The teammates even spent time in town and said it was the first time most of them rode in an airplane. Board members congratulated Moore and the team and praised them for their accomplishments. The students also noted that Everhart, Smith and McGilton, who respectively attend Edison, Toronto and Catholic Central, planned to be vet techs while Brown, who also attends Edison, was looking to become a dog groomer.

    “We’re really proud of you,” Vice President Ron Smyth told Moore. “Each year, the doors are bulging with people wanting to get into the program, and that’s a testament to you.”

    Moore replied that other than being a veterinary technician, she has thoroughly enjoyed being a teacher and working with her remarkable students.

   “I really enjoy my job. There are great teaching moments and mine is teaching these kids,” she said. “They practiced over the summer and gave up their time to prepare. They were the only team from Ohio [to attend].”

   JVS Supervisor/Principal Andy Long, who also attended the competition, was pleased to see the team receive honors.

   “I’m truly proud of their accomplishment and they represented the school very well,” he said.

    Among other matters:

--Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson noted that enrollment was holding steady at about 380 students with 202 juniors and 178 seniors; Long said he liked the numbers but hoped to increase them and was looking for ideas to generate interest;

--The board learned that renovations were still underway with mirrors to be installed in the cosmetology program’s salon and windows for the culinary arts’ Crestview Inn Restaurant while an espresso/cappuccino machine and other equipment were approved for the latter;

--Dr. Phillipson planned to contact a company to discuss further drawings for the Breezewood Subdivision housing development and set a meeting with the Jefferson County Regional Planning Commission to begin taking steps in building more homes;

--Long said Catherine Bosley and NAMI representatives recently spoke to students about social media dangers and mental health, which spurred an uptick in students seeking mental health resources and counseling at the school;

--Officials accepted the resignation of building cleaner Anthony Council and hired Tina Wells as part-time cleaner for the current school year;

--The board appointed James Mills to the Local Professional Development Committee (LPDC) to replace teacher Tamela Marshall;

--Leaders added Ken Herron to the substitute teachers’ list;

--The board adopted permanent appropriations for $14,931,550.59;

--The board approved a contract with the Jefferson County Juvenile Court for school liaison services from Sept. 1, 2023, to Aug. 31, 2024;

--Officials approved the installation of security window film from Clearview Tinting for $22,857 and electric service to a new sign by TS Electric for $3,928; 

--Leaders approved a field trip for 34 students to the SkillsUSA Fall Leadership Conference in Columbus on Nov. 9-10;

--The board learned that terms were expiring on Dec. 31 for members Ruth Anne Bruzzese, William Hendricks and Kim Mark and the Steubenville and Indian Creek school boards would be notified to make appointments/reappointments to the respective posts

BLOOMINGDALE-Students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School will be on the air as the multimedia and design program begins streaming daily news broadcasts over the next week.

    Instructor Cody LaRue said WJVS reports start around 8 a.m. and can be seen on the Jefferson County JVS YouTube page. Each day, student anchors will present reports on school activities to keep the school and community abreast of JVS happenings. The anchors will be members of student organizations and will rotate on a regular basis.

    LaRue said his students are involved in other aspects of the broadcast, including production and design. They include Anna Harper, Riley Stine, Thomas Burch and Matthew Barnes on cameras; Kevin Campos, Jason Nutter and Adam McCloud on master controls; Jarryn Hill and Lance Thornton, audio production; Lance Thornton, Emma Long, Kalvin Weaver, Jason Nutter, Gabriella Diaz, Jarryn Hill and Kevin Campos, design; and Gabriella Diaz, Adam McCloud, Alex Carothers and Chris Corona, news directors.

   “We will livestream the broadcast news and there will be new things from the school. The whole school is going to be involved and the student organizations will be anchors from week to week. We are producing and doing everything inhouse.”

   Reports will run from five to 10 minutes and highlight happenings throughout the school, such as programs and events. The broadcasts will be stored on playlists while podcasts from the last two seasons plus videos are also archived on the YouTube page.

   “This is something we’ve been working towards and I’ve done broadcasts in the past, but now we have a new OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) system that is used for streamers and we can still maintain professional production value,” LaRue said. 

    Several of his students are excited about the opportunity and said it will prepare them for their future careers.

  “I love it,” said senior Kevin Campos. “I love getting to learn the OBS and getting real-world experience. This is something I want to do in my career, so this is very helpful.”

   “I’m excited to work with the audioboard. That’s something I want to do in the future,” added senior Jarryn Hill.

   “I like the responsibility and pressure of working live,” added senior Jason Nutter. “It’s a real-world situation.”

BLOOMINGDALE-Four members of the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School FFA Veterinary Science Team are heading to Springfield, Mass., this week to compete in a national competition.

   Trinity McGilton, Mekenzie Everhart, Madison Brown and Alexis Smith will travel to the commonwealth this Thursday for the 2023 FFA Days. Events will be held Sept. 15-17 with awards given on Saturday evening, then the group will return home Sunday. Emily Moore, JVS animal science management program instructor and chapter advisor, said it was the first time the group attending after taking second place at the Ohio FFA Veterinary Science Competition in Columbus this spring.

   “It starts with an online exam in March and they have to place within the top 150 in Ohio,” Moore explained. “Then we went to the state competition at the end of April.”

   About 900 students attended that event to complete demonstrations and showcase their knowledge. A total of 46 teams and 129 students were on hand and the JVS chapter performed admirably with only one week of preparation, ultimately qualifying for the national contest. This week’s activities will take place at the Massachusetts State Fair, which is known as “The Big E,” and Moore said second-place winners from across the country will be in attendance. Individual and team events will be held with all of the scores later combined for final totals.

   “It’s a combination of a written test, a math test, equipment, parasite and breed identification and demonstrating skills. The team competition is to problem solve or veterinary clinic situation,” she commented.

   Fundraisers were held to help defray costs for the trip, such as accepting donations during grooming services over a two-week period. She and JVS Supervisor/Principal Andy Long will chaperone the trip and she said the students were thrilled to take part.

   “They are really excited,” she added. “They also get to spend time at the state fair.”

    Several of the students concurred.

   “I’m really excited because the college I’m interested in attending is aware of it,” said McGilton, who is a senior at Catholic Central High School. “It’s very exciting and I’m very nervous.”

   She added that she hopes to one day work in the veterinary field.

   “It’s a very exciting and awesome opportunity,” noted Everhart, who attends Edison High School and plans to become a dog groomer after graduation.   

    Both say team members have been busy studying and preparing for their turn on the national stage.

   “Our team is a good team and we all support each other,” said McGilton.

   “We all worked hard for it,” Everhart concluded.

 

BLOOMINGDALE-Jefferson County Joint Vocational School instructor Russell Achhammer received an education of his own during a 3M Collision Repair Instructor Training in Minnesota this summer.

    Achhammer, who has taught the auto body collision program at JVS for the past six years, was among 15 instructors from across the United States who attended the four-day Collision Repair Academy in St. Paul in early August.  Daylong sessions were conducted at the 3M Headquarters and led by company instructors. 

    Each summer, 3M invites a group of collision repair educators to the headquarters and two sessions were conducted on July 24-27 and July 27-Aug. 3. Achhammer learned about the program through the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), a nonprofit organization within the automotive collision industry which recognizes the importance for more students to fill staffing shortage needs. CREF supports collision repair educational programs, schools and students to create entry-level employees and connect them with an array of career opportunities.

    Achhammer submitted his application and was confirmed in May to join the latter session. The company covered course fees for qualified technical school instructors that included meals, lodging and transportation within the Twin Cities. Achhammer said the program included a blend of classroom discussion and hands-on training and he learned new methods in the field to better prepare the future workforce.

   “It was awesome to interact with people from around the country and a lot of it was modern techniques and procedures,” he said.

   The training program focuses on foundational body repair processes which underpin original equipment manufacturer (OEM) repair procedures in order to restore a collision-damaged vehicle back to an acceptable state of crashworthiness. The instructors use practical hands-on training that reinforces and demonstrates key concepts, supported by occasional classroom theory and discussion. Throughout the training, attendees are instructed in the ‘why’ behind modern repair methods and techniques so that they can absorb and retain practices that may vary from the way things have been done for the last 30 years.

    Training topics include best practices in the areas of body repair tools and application techniques; panel removal and replacement; welding; corrosion protection techniques; aluminum substrate repair; dent repair methodology; paint preparation and masking; and paint finishing. The academy is open to instructors who teach autobody collision repair and who are well-respected leaders of their organizations. In addition to the training, the groups also toured the 3M Innovation Center.

    Achhammer intends to share his new-found knowledge with his students, which includes 16 juniors and seniors.

    “It was amazing and very worthwhile to go,” he concluded.

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Board of Education bid farewell to longtime treasurer Karen Spoonemore, who conducted her final session on Tuesday.

   Spoonemore is retiring on July 31 after 31 years of service and received congratulations and cupcakes for her last meeting. Board members thanked her for her dedication to the school and children through the years and she was modest about the conclusion of her tenure, simply saying she couldn't believe it was happening. Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson also wished her well in her future.

  "She has done a great job for the school and I think she placed her heart in her work," he said.

   Spoonemore will remain as a consultant through October as incoming treasurer Marcy Thompson transitions into the role.

   Meanwhile, the board's agenda continued with topics ranging from the upcoming renewal levy to ongoing projects at the site. Officials discussed the levy at the June meeting but formally passed a resolution to place the 0.5-mill measure on the Nov. 7 general election ballot at the latest gathering. The levy is expected to generate $877,000 annually over the next 10 years starting in 2024 and will cover current expenses, purchases and/or replacement of tools, equipment, repairs, renovations, building reconstruction and related appurtenances. 

   Leaders also discussed upgrades occurring in the building, including an estimated $294,490 renovation of the cosmetology lab with new stations, flooring, countertops, paint and a few design modifications in the salon. Buckeye Field Maintenance, Inc., of Bloomingdale is overseeing the project and Dr. Phillipson said a $20,000 change order was approved for asbestos removal and overtime to complete the project in August.

   The culinary arts program is also undergoing improvements at the Crestview Inn Restaurant with new carpeting, furniture, cabinets, equipment, windows and a door set at the site. The board approved a declaration of urgent necessity to complete the work and Dr. Phillipson hoped to see it finished over the next month. The total cost is more than $30,000 with work being performed by Cattrell Companies, Inc., of Toronto and flooring from Smitty's Wholesale Carpet Warehouse of Steubenville, furnishings and equipment from National Equipment Co. of Wheeling and windows by Steubenville Plate and Window Glass Corp.

   Among other projects are painting the criminal justice and Transition To Work (TTW) labs plus two science classrooms and a related room by Keep It Clean Services of Steubenville and Dr. Phillipson said some updates are also being considered in the board room. 

  "[Administrative Assistant] Karen Grimm is looking at a table and chairs in the conference room and we may eventually remodel by removing the paneling and doing the floors," he added. "It would be a nice improvement to the area."

   Board member Kim Mark asked if a café had been discussed for students. Dr. Phillipson said culinary arts provided coffee in the morning with the TTW program provided refreshments at lunch, but he could review the matter. The board further approved the purchase of new equipment including a broadcast desk for the multimedia and design program, books and a mini excavator for the heavy equipment program and engine, airbag and lighting system trainers for the auto service technology program as well as sanitary sewer and water main repairs from Fort Steuben Maintenance. 

   "We found some backup [in the sewer line] with a camera last year but had no problems, but since it's there they will dig and repair it," the superintendent noted.

   In other matters, the board:

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School will have a 0.5-mill levy up for renewal this fall to support operations.

   During the June 20 regular session, the school board agreed to place the measure on the Nov. 7 general election ballot for voters’ consideration. The levy is expected to generate $877,000 annually over the next 10 years beginning in tax list year 2024. The levy will cover current expenses, purchases and/or replacement of tools, equipment, repairs, renovations, building reconstruction and related appurtenances. 

     The JVS offers a multitude of programs for juniors and seniors including animal science management, auto collision, auto service technology, carpentry, computer networking, cosmetology, criminal justice, culinary arts, early childhood education, electrical trades, health technologies, heavy equipment operation, multimedia and design, power mechanics, Transition to Work and welding.

   Meanwhile, upgrades are in the works for two programs as the board approved purchases and contracts for the cosmetology and culinary arts programs. 

  The board approved a plan for asbestos abatement in the cosmetology lab in order to complete a renovation of the salon. The lab is undergoing an estimated $294,490 project to upgrade the site with new stations, flooring, countertops, paintwork and some design modifications with Buckeye Field Maintenance, Inc., of Bloomingdale performing the work and should be completed this summer.

   “Hopefully the asbestos abatement will take place next week and we’ll get back to the installation,” said Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson. Raze International, Inc., of Shadyside is handling the $18,500 project.

    Additionally, the culinary arts program will receive an update of its own at the Crestview Inn Restaurant. Board members approved the purchase of tables, chairs, cabinets and equipment from National Equipment Co. of Wheeling for $17,759, flooring from Smitty’s Wholesale Carpet Warehouse of Steubenville for $5,000 and windows from Steubenville Plate and Window Glass Corp. for $7,900 but were still awaiting a quote for a new door.

    “The carpet is being replaced and we are updating the buffet area and furniture,” Dr. Phillipson added. “It is a facelift for the restaurant and we will have it done by the end of summer.”

   Among other matters, the board:

--Heard a presentation from early childhood instructor Rebecca Kelley and student Karlee Warren, the latter who is attending the Future Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) National Leadership Conference on July 2-6 in Denver, Colo. Warren, the daughter of Mike and Beth Warren of Wintersville, earned a chance to attend after earning one of the top two spots in the ECE category at the state FCCLA conference in Columbus this past April. She will compete against teens from across the country and attend workshops and other venues. FCCLA is a national career and technical student organization that provides personal growth, leadership development and career preparation opportunities for students in Family and Consumer Sciences education;

--Respectively heard from Supervisor/Principal Andy Long and Supervisor/Assistant Principal Gabrielle Wilson on the master schedule and High Schools That Work. The master schedule was later approved;

--Approved a short-term employment contract for current Treasurer Karen Spoonemore to serve as a consultant during the transition with incoming treasurer Marcy Thompson from Aug. 1-Oct. 31, 2023;

--Approved Darlene Mason as a general substitute on the 2023-24 substitute teacher list;

-- Approved the revised Fiscal Year 2023 permanent appropriations and adopted the temporary appropriations for FY’24;

--Approved the purchase of a compactor for the heavy equipment program from Ohio CAT of Cadiz;

--Approved the purchase of a paint simulator for auto collision and motor control test panels for electrical trades from Buckeye Educational Systems of Indiana;

--Approved the purchase of books and workbooks for the health tech program from Hartman Publishing Inc of New Mexico;

 --Scheduled the next board meeting for July 18 at 5 p.m.

BLOOMINGDALE-Kids explored careers in a fun way as Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Summer Camp restarted on June 13-14.

   About 70 students from Jefferson and Harrison counties who are entering grades 5-6 spent two days learning about animal science, carpentry, early childhood education and multimedia and design by completing projects in each program. JVS instructors Emily Moore, Dave Lucas, Becky Kelley and Cody LaRue were on hand to lead the sessions with help from staffers Shawna Myers and Mark Starcher and MAD program graduates Camden Parsons, Harlee Barbour and Sydni Cunningham as well as Cooper Lucas while lunch was also provided each day.

  Carina Aulicino, JVS career and workforce specialist, said the longtime camp was put on hold during the COVID pandemic before being brought back to the school.

   “It’s about career exploration and to introduce them to what the JVS has to offer,” Aulicino said. “It was stopped due to COVID in 2020 and we’re bringing it back.”

   Kids got some hands-on learning with goats, ducks, dogs and rabbits in the animal science program, where they also dissected owl pellets and learned about animals’ digestive systems; learned about building houses, toured the student-made mobile home on the grounds and built small wooden birdhouses, racecars and more with kits from Lowe’s in the carpentry program; enjoyed arts and crafts with homemade playdough, sand art and other projects   in ECE; and created colorful artistic collages using the Photoshop program in the MAD lab.

   The young participants were also treated to some cold goodies during a visit from the Ice Cream Island truck from Cadiz and Aulicino said Wal-Mart also provided lunch for the first day. The event concluded a pizza lunch and the youth receiving “JVS Career Exploration Summer Camp 2023” T-shirts to commemorate the occasion.

  Aulicino said many kids enjoyed the camp and didn’t want to leave, plus she thanked all those who made it successful.

   “We really appreciate all of the staff who helped and put everything together,” she commented.

   Several of the attendants agreed that they enjoyed the experience.

   “I liked animal science,” said incoming fifth-grader Callie Culbertson of Harrison Central Elementary. “[The animals] are soft.”

   Ellie Ashmore, a sixth-grader at Bishop John King Mussio Jr. High School, said her interest was with carpentry while others also mentioned possibly attending the JVS as students in the future.

  “I got to make Photoshop images [in MAD],” added Ethan Bennett, a sixth-grader at John Gregg Elementary this fall. “I learned how to build houses and we toured the house they made and I got to build neat things in carpentry.”

   He noted that his older brother Jordan would be attending JVS in the future and he may, as well.

   “I really liked it,” added Reykin Maris, an incoming sixth-grader at Indian Creek Middle School. “I got to pet goats, dogs and ducks and make my own playdough.”

   Officials said the free summer camp began decades ago as a weeklong venture and they were pleased to have it return as an annual event once again.

BLOOMINGDALE-Students are gaining on-the-job experience through their participation in the School-to-Work program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.

   Seniors Kaden Kontra and Raven Holloway completed an unpaid internship program but were compensated thanks to a grant through Building Bridges to Careers (BB2C), which reimbursed the students for their time in the field. Carina Aulicino, career/workforce specialist at the JVS, applied for and obtained the funding and said the program greatly benefitted the students.  

   “BB2C has received grants for multiple career explorations, ranging from mental health to construction projects in Appalachia. Upon acceptance of the student application student, BB2C determines what grant money they can use to pay the student and an amount. Each student received a check for different amounts,” she explained.

  Aulicino added that approximately 45 students took part in the School-to-Work program and most of them were paid through the employers, but the grant enables those like Kontra and Holloway to also gain experience in their chosen field. The grant requires students to work 40-80 hours to receive reimbursement and they have far succeeded that number. She added that BB2C has been very helpful in making their opportunities happen. 

  “BB2C allows students to explore career options, get paid while interning, earn funding for transportation and find opportunities in their community. It is available to all fields and open to students in grades 9-12. Internships start at 40 hours and time is flexible. Those who hire interns can build a pipeline and teach students about the industry, plus the program is at no cost to the employer. Internships are available to all businesses with onboarding provided by BB2C, plus they are paid through grants and partnerships.”

  She also noted that some students are also documenting work-based learning hours on their own time during afternoons and weekends as part of their experience.

  Kontra, the son of Carri Justice and Ryan Kontra of Mingo Junction and a student at Buckeye Local High School, studied in the electrical trades program and had a chance to put his skills to use at T.S. Electric in Richmond. He completed more than 100 hours by working Mondays to Wednesdays, spending about a month employed in a commercial building as part of his task. Kontra said the opportunity has helped prepare him for the workforce.

   “They taught me ways to make my job easier in the field and I may work for a contractor after high school,” he added. “I like [the program] because it gests my name out in the field. I get to know people and I get hands-on experience like I get at the JVS.”

      He added that his school training has also prepared him for his future.

   “They prepared me on how to follow codes, about conduit bending, how to wire simple circuits and receptacles and dealing with transformers. I feel like I’ve done the best I could with preparing.”

     Holloway, the daughter of Daniel and Darcy Holloway of Toronto and a student at Toronto High School, was a senior in the animal science program and worked at Heritage Veterinary Care in Hopedale each Thursday for several months. While there, she assisted professionals in the office. She said it was a great experience and it gave her a bird’s eye view of operations in her future career.

   “I assisted with patients, cleaned up the clinic, observed surgeries and got to see the new equipment used in the clinic,” she added. “It was nice because I was able to see all of the high-quality equipment they use.”

   Following graduation, Holloway plans to attend the Veterinary Tech Institute in Pittsburgh to become a vet tech.

  “It’s definitely helped me get out there and I’m getting all of this experience from it,” she continued. “Heritage is a progressive place and I’m learning new things. It sets my expectations on how the clinical environment will be once I’m out of college.”

   She noted that her time at JVS has also readied her for the future ahead.

   “I felt pretty comfortable once I began working there because I was familiar with the terms and equipment [I learned about at JVS] and I learned a lot in the lab. I felt pretty prepared.”

   Both said they would recommend the school-to-work experience to other students. For more information, go online to www.bb2careers.org/internships.

BLOOMINGDALE-Older tractors are getting a new life after undergoing refurbishment in Jefferson County Joint Vocational School’s power mechanics program.

   Three farm vehicles dating back to the 1950s and 60s received new parts and color as projects which began at the start of the school year. Junior Andrew Wetherell and seniors Boady Wood and Ben Carpenter brought the tractors from their home farms and said they will put them to use now they are as good as new.

   Wetherell, the son of Duayne and Monica Wetherell of New Alexandria and a student at Steubenville Catholic Central High School, repaired his red 1962 Farmall International 140. He disassembled, sanded and painted the equipment, the latter with help from JVS auto collision technology students, before putting it all back together again. Wetherell said the process began in November and finally wrapped up in April.

   “My love of agriculture [led to the project] and I wanted to see it restored and be able to use it,” he said, adding that he will definitely use it on his family farm. “It belonged to a neighbor and we bought it a few years ago, and now it’s a family tractor. This was my biggest project so far and I loved every minute of it, especially seeing the outcome.”

   He plans to keep using the tractor well into his future and said his ultimate goal is to become a farmer.  

   Wood, the son of Ted and Alana Wood of Bloomingdale, attends Edison High School and restored his 1946 Farmall BN tractor over the past few months, but it was not his first such project.

   “Last year, I did a project on my 1950 Farmall Super N, so I restored two tractors over the last two years,” Wood said. “I got [the current one] running after it sat for 30-40 years, stripped down the body and primed and painted it for a perfect restoration.”

   His process began in February and wound down in May. Like the former vehicle, he plans to use the Farmall BN around his family farm and in tractor shows. Following graduation, Wood hopes to work as a diesel technician and farm for the rest of his life, and he said his training at the JVS has made him ready to fulfill his endeavors.

   Carpenter, the son of Clint and Mindy Carpenter of Bergholz, also attends Edison and refurbished his green 1952 John Deere A. His project has been ongoing since September before finally finishing in May.

   “We did the John Deere B last year and the John Deere B was sitting for 20 years. I got it running and did a full engine rebuild and cosmetic restoration,” he explained. “It was really great to see it all come back together.”

   Following graduation, Carpenter hopes to work in the diesel mechanics field.

   All of the projects were completed with help from fellow power mechanics students Gabe Bocek, Jason Harris, Kaleb Griffith, William White, Victoria White, Daniel Cermak, Izak Pyle and Dylan Haines as well as auto collision technology pupils Logan Abercrombie, Michelle Ziarko, Laela White, Lexis Kloeker and Ares Cline.

BLOOMINGDALE-More than 100 seniors reached a milestone on May 17 when they officially completed their education at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.

BLOOMINGDALE-Marcy Thompson is joining the ranks at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School after being named treasurer on Tuesday.

    Thompson, who currently acts as treasurer for Wellsville City Schools, was approved during the regular JVS Board of Education meeting and received a three-year contract from Aug. 1, 2023 to July 31, 2026. She will succeed longtime treasurer Karen Spoonemore, who plans to retire this summer after 31 years of service.

   A Wellsville resident and Harrison County native, Thompson is a graduate of Cadiz High School and attended Belmont Technical College before receiving her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Ashford University in Arizona. She also gained certifications from the University of Phoenix and worked for Harrison Hills City Schools for 22 years, where she was assistant treasurer before heading to Wellsville in 2022. 

   She is looking forward to being part of the JVS and said she enjoys the family-like atmosphere it provides.

   “I enjoyed Wellsville and the JVS is a wonderful place to work,” she said. “I’m meeting people and this will definitely be a learning experience for me, but I’m looking forward to that.”

   She was welcomed by the board and said she was eager to begin her new position.   

  “I look forward to working with Marcy. She has experience and knowledge that should benefit the JVS,” said Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson.

   Meanwhile, Dr. Phillipson informed the board that the school’s 0.5-mill levy for operations and permanent improvements will be up for renewal and officials need to put it back on the ballot this fall. Further discussion and action are set for upcoming meetings in June and July.

   “The levy is on the agenda for the June meeting,” he said. “It’s up in 2024 and the first time we can put it on the ballot is this November.”

    Among other matters, the board:

Set the next regular meeting for June 20 at 5 p.m.

BLOOMINGDALE-The Future Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School received a total of $5,000 for its efforts to support traffic safety.

   Advisor Becky Kelley said the school’s junior and senior chapters each garnered $2,500 Families Acting for Community Traffic Safety (FACTS) grants and the windfall was announced during the Ohio FCCLA Conference on April 27-28 in Columbus.

   “A hundred chapters each received $1,000 [at the conference] and 10 earned $2,500 for outstanding projects,” Kelley explained. “Both of our chapters got the latter award, which totals $5,000.”

   The JVS organization, which is comprised of early childhood education students, had received $1,000 FACTS grants in the past to promote safety and this year’s projects included the Impact Teen Driver and Just Drive programs. Members spread the word by reading to preschoolers, inviting speakers to lecture students and utilizing simulation goggles to mimic intoxication and other hazards. 

   Kelley said this was the third year the FCCLA has received an allocation for projects and they previously highlighted the importance of seatbelt safety and usage with preschool parents and educated peers on impaired driving and winterization. She added that the latest award will be used for leadership conferences and other activities and she was grateful to see her groups recognized.

      FACTS is a national FCCLA peer education program to support the enforcement of local rules and regulations regarding community traffic safety and State Farm Insurance is a grant sponsor.