BLOOMINGDALE-Jefferson County Joint Vocational School will bid adieu to the latest crop of alumni during its annual senior recognition program this Monday.

    About 100 seniors are on track to receive their Passports upon completing their education at the facility.  Supervisor/Assistant Principal Andy Long said doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and festivities will take place at 6 p.m. in the school commons. Participating graduates will don the caps and gowns of their homeschools and be lauded by JVS educators and administrators as their families proudly look on. The itinerary will include opening remarks from Supervisor/Principal Dan Hartman, a class address from Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson, scholarship presentations, Class of 2022 presentations, attendance awards, vocational and academic Awards of Excellence and Distinction, career and technical academic letters and closing comments by Long.

   “This year's senior recognition will be held inside this year. Last year's ceremony was held outside in order to comply with social distancing protocols,” he explained.

 

   The keynote speaker is Johnathan Cortez, a 2015 graduate of the health technologies program and an emergency room nurse at Trinity West Medical Center in Steubenville.

  Cortez, of Hopedale, earned certifications through the health tech program that enabled him to gain employment as a nurse’s aide and EKG technician at the facility. He has spent the past seven years at the site with four of them as an ER nurse after graduating from Trinity School of Nursing in 2018. He is working to complete his bachelor’s degree in nursing online through Capella University and is expected to finish in December, but he eventually hopes to become a nurse practitioner. In addition, he has been involved in his community as potentially the youngest member of the Hopedale Village Council after being elected six years ago at age 19, as well as a vice chair of the newly formed Silver Spade Joint Ambulance District.

  His address to graduates will harken back on his time at the JVS and describe the valuable training he received to prepare him on his path to success.

   “Being at the JVS affirmed [my career] for me because I found out it was a good field for me to get into and a stable career,” he added. “My mother was a nurse, which also inspired me. I will describe my time at the JVS and how it’s helped me and how opportunities are out there to help people in their careers. The training really prepared me and don’t know how I would have made it ...without getting through the program.”

BLOOMINGDALE-Students’ education will become even more enhanced with the addition of a state-of-the-art program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.

  The site will provide eight zSpace AIO computers that include a Windows-based, all-in-one system to allow students to participate in an augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) learning experience. Assistant Principal Andy Long said the system is designed to run performance-heavy applications, making it ideal for designers, developers and particularly career-technical schools. Long said the systems, which cost $38,000 and were funded through grant money from the Governor’s Emergnecy Relief Fund, should hopefully arrive this summer with staff training eyed at the start of the next school year.

  “zSpace all-in-one machines will be utilized in both academic classes and our vocational labs,” Long commented. “The applications engage students in standards-based learning experiences that align with the curriculum. Students construct knowledge and understanding of concepts across multiple curriculum areas with a strong focus on STEM subjects.”

   He continued that it uses familiar movements and interactions that people commonly perform, plus operators have the ability to look around virtual objects as if they are real, giving students a natural experience. Some examples of the high-tech tools include Criminal Justice by Certify-Ed, which would help criminal justice students to process a crime scene; Canine Anatomy VR Trainer by GTAFE, which could be used by the small animal science program for practical learning on the respiratory, skeletal and other bodily systems; VR Automotive Diagnostics by GTAFE, which would aid automotive service tech students by simulating the entire process of automotive failure diagnosis; VIVED Construction to construct the core elements of a residential home; and Newton’s Park by zSpace which promotes allows users to build simulations, change gravity and stop and reverse time in the study of physics.

   Long said the virtual learning programs remove the roadblocks of cost, danger and impracticability and made it a major benefit for the school.

  “Learning through virtual reality provides a powerful opportunity for students to engage in potentially hazardous training situations with no repercussions to live specimens, patients or the user,” he added. “Students can dissect, analyze and explore hundreds of objects, creating experiences that might only be possible through virtual reality. zSpace provides students with opportunities to experience and recover from controlled failure, which helps them build confidence and skills without fear of accidental harm.”

Five seniors in the health technology program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School passed their exams through the National Health Care Association and are now certified phlebotomy technicians. They include, pictured from left, Matelyn Sterling, Bailey Ebright, Hailey Burgess, Kristen Carroll and Shiann Hanket.

Early childhood education student Karlee Warren and instructor Rebecca Kelley teach James Griffin, Brantley Clark and Cashton Sims a fun way to spell their names in the preschool program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. Fifteen kids ages 3-5 participate in learning activities on Monday to Thursday to get ready for kindergarten. For more information, contact JCJVS at (740) 264-5545.

Criminal justice students underwent training on defense tactics with Det. John Sowers of the Steubenville Police Department, a certified instructor through the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy, at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. The pupils learned methods for control and defense as they prepared for jobs in the safety field. Pictured practicing their moves are Kaylee Carpenter and Alexis Rager in front with Samantha Price and Koby Hood in the back. Also participating but not pictured are Emily Gubanez and A.J. Duke.

Criminal justice students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School received their boating license after completing the Ohio Boating Education Course. The three-day training includes instructors from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Watercraft and is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law and Administration and recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. Among those gaining their certification are, pictured from left, Emily Gubanez, Koby Hood, Kaylee Carpenter, Kayla White and Samantha Price.

BLOOMINGDALE-Two new positions are being filled at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School in a bid to prepare students for the working world.

   The JVS Board of Education met on Tuesday and approved Carina Aulicino and Anthony Materna to respectively serve as workforce development coordinator and instructor for the new heavy equipment program. Both officials received a one-year limited contract and begin their tenures in August.

   Aulicino, of Rayland, has worked with Eastern Gateway Community College and Belmont College and is currently pursuing her master’s in educational leadership at West Liberty University. JVS Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said she will act as a liaison between the school and local industry to help students transition to the job force.

   “For the career piece, she will be in the elementary schools promoting careers and doing activities with the kids, and for the workforce she will contact employers and work with school staff and students to obtain job placement during the school year and industry accreditation for workforce development,” he continued.

   Her first day on the job is Aug. 15.

   Materna, who hails from the New Philadelphia area, is set to begin on Aug. 19 and Dr. Phillipson commented that he holds experience in adult education at Buckeye Career Center and is a member of an operating engineer’s union. Materna will the new heavy equipment program, which will focus on operating vehicles from forklifts to dozers used in manufacturing, general contracting, oil and gas, infrastructure and more. Officials said there is a growing need for workers and the JVS hopes to have students prepared to fulfill those roles.

   “We’re good to go [with the lab],” Dr. Phillipson said, adding that 15 students will participate this fall.

   Board member Ron Smyth noted his excitement during the session and said the new additions were beneficial for the students and community. 

  In other personnel matters, the board approved a two-year limited contract for Supervisor/Assistant Principal Andy Long and a three-year contract for technology coordinator Ron Peach, both effective on Aug. 1, while Brianne Schoolcraft was named as cosmetology instructor under a one-year limited contract starting Aug. 19. She will succeed Sondra Mount, who is retiring at the end of the current school year. Leaders also approved the resignation of early childhood education aide Deanna Hines effective May 25 as well as the re-employment of licensed and classified staff.

  Among further action, the board:

BLOOMINGDALE-Two students in the health technologies program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School will be heading to Nashville this summer for a national competition.

   Seniors Kristin Carroll and Bailey Ebright will compete at HOSA’s annual International Leadership Conference at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center on June 21-25 after earning top honors at the state contest in March. HOSA, which stands for Health Occupations Students of America, is now known as Future Health Professionals and is a student-led organization invested in middle school through collegiate students’ future in the global health community. 

   It will be the first time both students have attended the national event, although the JVS has had competitors previously take part. 

   Carroll, the daughter of Michael Phelps and Heather Curran, earned first place at the state contest on March 24-25 in the personal care category. The Hammondsville resident and Edison High School student said she was ecstatic about the win.

  “We had to do skills in the competition,” she added. “I’m very nervous and excited [to go to nationals].”. 

   She plans to continue in the health field and attend Kent State University, where she ultimately hopes to become a registered nurse. The Cadiz resident said the JVS has been instrumental in shaping her career plans.

  “I like that [the JVS] has prepared me a lot,” she said. “I’m interested in helping people.”

   Ebright, the daughter of Chris Ebright and Rita Morrison, received first place in the home health aide competition at states. 

   “We had to take a written test and they took the Top 10 highest scores and people tested off on skills, then they took the top four places,” she explained. “I’m pretty eager to go to nationals and I’m excited for the opportunity.”

  Ebright, a Cadiz resident who attends Buckeye Local High School, wants to attend Kent State University and graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, then go on to become a pediatric oncology nurse. She is already gaining some experience by working at a local nursing home since July, plus she presides over the senior HOSA members in her program to learn leadership skills.  She said being a people person propelled her into the field and her time at JVS has been preparing her for the future.

 “I honestly just like helping people,” she continued. “I like meeting people and that’s why I like HOSA. I like that it’s hands-on experience [at the JVS]. I’ll be able to work right outside of high school.”                        

   Tammy Sismondo, JVS health technologies instructor and HOSA advisor, noted that she was pleased with the work all of her students have done to head to the states and it took a lot of dedication to make their way to nationals.

  “I’m really proud of all the students that went to state,” she said. “The students that qualify for nationals are dedicated and hard workers and prepare throughout the year. I look forward to taking them to nationals.”

   She said students have gone to the nationals every year, even attending virtually when COVID prevented competitions from being held in person. They draw about 10,000 students from 47 states and Puerto Rico for a series of competitions and conference events.

BLOOMINGDALE-High school students across Jefferson County have a chance to learn what opportunities are available after graduation and beyond during the annual Transition Fair.

   Activities will be held in the commons area at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School on April 7 from 5-7 p.m. and are open to students with or without an Individualized Education Plan, or IEP. JVS Transition to Work Instructor Christina Henderson said vendors range from local community colleges, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities to PALS and will share supports and resources neither students nor their parents may know exist.

  “It’s for students who are working on their transition plan into adulthood,” she explained. “This is an opportunity for parents and students to have all of the organizations and agencies in one spot to get their questions answered and get the assistance they need.”

   Another addition is Jack Fluharty and Mackenzie Owens, TTW graduates and current employees of Upland South Candle Company in New Cumberland, who will tell of their experience moving from the classroom to the working world. 

  “Former students Jack and Mack will have table discussions and tell their story, plus they will sell some of their candles,” Henderson commented.

   The Transition Fair been held for four years with the exception of 2020, when the COVID pandemic shuttered events. Henderson added that this year’s festivities have been revamped and some raffle drawings will also be held.

    For more information, contact Henderson at the JCJVS at (740) 264-5545, Ext. 509.

BLOOMINGDALE-A new curriculum for criminal justice students is taking off with the addition of drones at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.

   Since early February, 17 juniors and seniors have been gaining knowledge that could help them as safety officials by utilizing unmanned aircraft vehicles, or UAV’s. They have been studying the DroneSmarts curriculum and practicing with two DJI Mavic Air 2’s, two computer flight simulators and 23 small indoor drones. Supervisor/Assistant Principal Andy Long said the drones were acquired in July and the program was started earlier this year.

   “[JVS Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson] and I were discussing ways to incorporate new and emerging technology into our programs,” Long explained. “I was talking with my uncle Mike Meintel, who at the time served as the security administrator with the state Office of Prisons, about drone technology in the prison system and he said drones are frequently used to boost correctional facility security. I then sent new products and the drone curriculum to [criminal justice instructor Jamie Freeman] and we moved forward from there.”

   Students are preparing to their Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification, which permits them to fly a drone for commercial purposes and not solely for recreation. Long said passing the FAA 107 exam would allow the students to pilot drones for such things as surveillance and security.

    “Drones are being used more and more in the field of criminal justice, so I wanted the kids to have a basic understanding so they could stand out if flying drones was part of the job they earned,” added Freeman. “They also can earn six points towards graduation if they pass the remote pilot certification.”

   Obtaining the certification is a multi-step process which entails demonstrating that holders understand the regulations, operating requirements and procedures for safely flying drones. To be eligible, first-time pilots must be at least 16 years old; be able to read, speak, write and understand English; be in a physical and mental condition to fly a drone; and pass the initial aeronautical knowledge exam “Unmanned Aircraft General-Small UAG.” The course outlines 15 modules to learn about drone flying, legal issues cited by the FAA and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and common-sense safety issues. The first portion of the DroneSmarts curriculum covers seven nodules centering on head knowledge, and topics range from learning about drones to government regulations. The second portion, which is six nodules, uses hands-on experience to differentiate between STEM and STEAM programs and focus on secondary school students or implementing adult occupational technology. The three remaining nodules are for a baseline pretest, midterm and final exam. She continued that they have not signed up for exams, so there is no test date as of yet. Still, it has been a unique form of education.

  “It has been a very interesting experience,” Freeman commented. “The students have enjoyed it and so have I.”

     Juniors Jeremiah McClain and Juston Swift have completed the bookwork and are on to learning the hands-on portion of piloting the apparatus.

    “It’s very easy,” said McClain, who attends Indian Creek High School. “[It helps] if you wanted to work with the police to look for suspects or with the Army to fly heat drones.”

   “It’s all about hand-eye coordination,” added Swift, a student at Buckeye Local High School. “We’re almost done with the whole process. If this course didn’t have drones, I wouldn’t be able to fly them [in my career].”

(Photo Cutline: Criminal Justice students Jeremiah McClain, at left, and Juston Swift, both juniors at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, practice with their indoor drones as part of a new course in the program. Students will have added expertise to pilot the aircraft, which can assist with surveillance and security in the field.)

Students in the auto service technology and auto collision technology programs at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School attended the World of Wheels Career Expo and Car Show in Pittsburgh on Jan. 21. The show featured nearly 200 cars and trucks, many of which were modified for racing, while others were restored and even some “rat rods” were on display. Students also had an opportunity to talk with car owners and industry vendors such as Lucas Oil.

BLOOMINGDALE-Multimedia and design students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School took top place during the Business Professionals of America Region 5 Competition in Coshocton.

   Eight students placed first in team competitions while one gained second in an individual matchup at the Coshocton County Career Center on Jan. 26, where more than a half-dozen schools were represented at the event. 

   MAD instructor Cody LaRue said seniors Camden Parsons, Breanna Hanlin, Harlee Barbour and Bryce Garman took first in the podcast production team category while juniors Sydni Cunningham, Torry Burks and Peyton Marsh were first in the broadcast news production team competition.

   “The podcast production crew created a three-to-five-minute podcast with graphics and a profile and the broadcast news production team created a three-to-five-minute broadcast with a promotional commercial, news segments and interviews.”

      LaRue said it also marked the second time the podcast crew earned that distinction since the MAD program added the curriculum last year. He added the students utilized equipment purchased for their weekly “Vocational Voiceover” segments which may be viewed on the Jefferson County JVS YouTube Channel. Additionally, junior Annabelle Morgan placed second in the individual graphic design promotion category.

     Both teams will now advance to the state competition at the Downtown Columbus Convention Center on March 10-11 with a chance to head to the nationals, which LaRue said could be very likely.

   “I’m incredibly proud of them. Since I’ve been here, we’ve never had anybody go to the nationals, but I think these guys have a lot of potential to go.”

 

(Photo Cutline: Multimedia and design students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School placed at the Business Professionals of America Region 5 Competition in Coshocton County Career Center on Jan. 26. The podcast production and broadcast news production teams placed first and move on to states while junior Annabelle Morgan was second in the individual graphic design promotion category. Pictured are, Breanna Hanlin, Harlee Barbour, Annabelle Morgan and Sydni Cunningham. Back: Torry Burks, Peyton Marsh, Bryce Garman and Camden Parsons.)

Caleb Phillips and Ryan Addom, juniors in the criminal justice program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, practice their crime scene detection for Spotlight on Skills activities on Jan. 20. Students in academic and lab programs will participate in SkillsUSA activities to showcase their hands-on technical knowledge and softer skills and will be judged by community business members. Student organizations including Business Professionals of America (BPA), Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and the Future Farmers of America (FFA) will also attempt to advance to further competitions. Gold, silver and bronze awards will be distributed that Friday and top placers may move on to regional and state contests over the next few months with a chance to potentially compete at the national level.

BLOOMINGDALE-Distracted driving and seatbelt safety are the focus of two grants recently awarded to a student organization at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.

   Early childhood education students in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America received Families Acting for Community Traffic Safety (FACTS) grants to spotlight personal, vehicle and road safety. A $2,000 award was given to the group and will be split among its 16 juniors and seniors for separate projects. 

   “The juniors will educate their peers on impaired driving and invite guests from the community to speak, plus they will do challenges with impairment goggles,” FCCLA Advisor Becky Kelley explained. “The seniors will focus on seatbelt safety and usage. They will educate preschool parents and peers using PowerPoint presentations and newsletters and also want to partner with someone in the insurance community.”

   Hopes are to contact a local State Farm Insurance agent since the company is a grant sponsor and Kelley said events should occur over the next few weeks.

   “My goal is to do these events in February after Spotlight on Skills because we must submit evidence of our programs to the national FCCLA after March 1,” she commented.

   Kelley said the chapter has received grants for the past three years and previously utilized FACTS funding for programs on seatbelt safety and vehicle winterization. She said the allocation has given her students a chance to become more effective leaders.

   “It’s a nice opportunity for students to be leaders in their school and community and to educate their peers on these issues, especially since some of them are new drivers. We also try to be community partners.”

   FACTS is a national FCCLA peer education program through which students strive to save lives and the goal is to educate others and support the enforcement of local rules and regulations regarding community traffic safety.

BLOOMINGDALE-Prospective students got a closer look at what’s available as Jefferson County Joint Vocational School hosted its annual sophomore visit.

   More than 300 students converged upon the Bloomingdale site on Nov. 16-18 to view its 15 programs as well as get a sneak peek at the potential heavy equipment course eyed for the fall. Sophomores representing Buckeye Local, Harrison Central, Indian Creek, Jefferson County Christian School, Steubenville and Steubenville Catholic Central arrived throughout the week to catch a glimpse of programs they previously selected. They chose up to three courses and spent time in labs for auto collision, auto service tech, carpentry, computer networking technology, cosmetology, criminal justice, culinary arts, early childhood education, electrical trades, health technologies, multimedia and design, power mechanics, small animal science, Transition to Work and welding. JVS Student Council members also assisted with the visitors while instructors and students led presentations and demonstrations in their programs.

    A few of the sophomores said they enjoyed seeing the programs in person so they may participate next year.

   “The top two I’m definitely interested in are small animal science and cosmetology,” said sophomore Zoe Truax of Toronto. “I’ve always liked cosmetology because I like doing hair, and I like animals.”

   “I like welding and power mechanics,” added J.D. Koran, a student at Buckeye Local. “My dad does [welding] and I’m familiar with it.”

   “I liked welding and auto repair,” noted Jacob Allen. “Welding has a lot of interesting things.”

   Supervisor/Principal Dan Hartman was pleased to see the students in person after COVID sidelined the event last year.

    “The exciting thing is seeing these kids’ faces and experiencing our labs for the first time or having the opportunity since eighth-grade,” Hartman added. “It was neat to welcome back into the building.”

   “We’re proud to have the sophomores here to see the opportunities they could have for valuable careers in the future,” said Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson. “We can give them opportunities for success at the JVS through industrial credentials, possible pathways to college or jobs during or after high school.”

   School Counselor Shellie Henderson said sophomores from Buckeye Local and Toronto attended on Tuesday with pupils from Steubenville, Steubenville Catholic Central, Harrison Central and Jefferson County Christian School on Wednesday and Indian Creek on Thursday. She said another positive was that students may still take part in College Credit Plus while studying at the JVS.

   The sophomore visits come on the heels of the JVS’s eighth-grade tours, which hosted another 320 students on Nov. 1, 4 and 5 and allowed them to spend 10 minutes in each lab. Meanwhile, there is another opportunity to review programs during an open house on Nov. 22 from 3:15-6 p.m. The event also includes parent-teacher conferences but Hartman said the labs will be open to peruse regardless of whether students attended the other tours.

(Photo Cutline: Madison Brown, a student at Toronto High School, makes a furry friend with a ferret in the small animal science program during the annual sophomore visit. Tenth-graders from six area schools toured the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School on Nov. 16-18 to view programs they may participate in next year.)

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Board of Education is looking to expand through programming and property and discussed plans on Tuesday.

   During the regular monthly meeting, Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson updated the board on the potential addition of a heavy equipment program to bring another skillset for students. Dr. Phillipson said he was in contact with another vocational school and learned the program was successful there.

   “We’re wanting to offer a heavy equipment program and I had an email from the superintendent at Washington County and [Supervisor/Principal Dan Hartman] contacted him. He said the program was always full,” he added. “This would be for operators of heavy equipment. It’s a two-year program and falls under construction. Washington has videos on their program and they have tractors and dozers.”

   Dr. Phillipson added that simulators were also available and discussion ensued on possibly acquiring equipment or working with local companies to utilize their vehicles for classes. The board queried about certifications and apprenticeships and the matter will be reviewed.

   “We will have a simulator for the sophomore visits and look at enrollment to see if we can get some to sign up,” Dr. Phillipson continued, adding that a representative would also be on hand to speak to the students. “We need to find an instructor but will have someone from the field to present and try to gauge interest.”

   Sophomore visits are planned for Nov. 16-18 and Supervisor/Principal Dan Hartman said they will be face-to-face events. Buckeye Local and Toronto have already agreed to bring students to the site on Nov. 16 and more schools are being scheduled for the remaining days. Hartman said the staff was excited to have the underclassmen back in the building to showcase the school’s other programs from auto collision to welding.

   Meanwhile, board members learned about preliminary plans to acquire property near the school to construct new housing. Dr. Phillipson provided two survey maps and said some land was being viewed near Shanley Drive but another road must be constructed for access. He intended to contact a landowner to negotiate a purchase less than a quarter-acre of land for the project.

   “My plan is to meet with the landowner and try to get an OK from the regional planning commission to move forward,” he commented. “It will take time.”

   JVS students have already constructed seven homes in the Breezewood Manor subdivision and the new site would include 10 lots for more houses. Officials said carpentry, electrical and other programs would continue constructing the homes while board member Kim Mark noted the heavy equipment program could also be involved.

   In other matters:

--Dr. Phillipson said the cosmetology program is looking to remodel its lab next year and officials will take bids on the project, which will be a complete overhaul of the salon and classrooms. Board President Larry George asked if a barber class could be added and officials said they would review the idea;

--Adult Education Program Coordinator Rich Wilinski updated leaders on classes, saying classes began Sept. 14 and run through mid-November. Currently, 14 classes are offered while five others were canceled due to lack of students. Wilinski said knitting and conversational Italian courses were added and each have six students. About 130 students are presently attending the programs and the dance class yielded the most involvement with 24 people;

--Supervisor/Assistant Principal Andy Long said the parent-teacher conferences on Oct. 6 were successful and many families were engaged in the process.

BLOOMINGDALE-Call it a case for “CSI: JVS.”

   Twenty juniors and seniors in Tamela Marshall’s forensics class at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School took part in a special lesson on Oct. 4 as they learned about crime scene detection from seniors in Jamie Freeman’s criminal justice program. Three scenarios were created by Freeman and students Samantha Price and Kaylee Carpenter and included faux corpses, possible weapons, bloodstains, footprints and fingerprints. Price, Carpenter and Kayla White gave overviews of the scenes and explained how to put science into practice by gathering and examining evidence. Freeman said the forensics class learned about footprints, blood and DNA collection, fingerprinting, chain of custody for evidence and taking photographs. 

   “I think it’s fun,” she added. “A lot of the scenarios are something the students pull together themselves.” 

   Price’s gruesome scene entailed mannequins used as bodies while Carpenter’s display involved a “corpse” and a severed hand at Halloween and Freeman’s scenario centered on cross-contamination after emergency crews responded to a 911 call which was determined to be a murder.

   “They will see if students can determine what happened. My kids will then go back to the lab and test on it,” Marshall commented. “This goes over and reinforces what they learn in our class and how it applies here.”

   Marshall said she developed the forensics class four years ago and her students learn how science is used in real-life detection. She and Freeman conduct events three times a year to give pupils get a closer look at the investigative process.

   “There is so much anatomy, chemistry and physics that apply to [Freeman’s] program. The kids get to see what they go through in criminal justice,” she said.

   Carpenter enjoyed instructing her peers and may pursue a career as an actual CSI.

   “I think I’m going to continue in forensics,” she said.

   Meanwhile, Freeman said crime scene investigation was also a part of SkillsUSA and students compete on the subject and may be eligible to head to regional, state and even national contests.

 

(Photo Cutline: Samantha Price, a senior criminal justice student at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, gives senior Harlee Barbour a lesson in fingerprinting as part of a special project between the criminal justice program and forensics class. Criminal justice students presented faux crime scenes and explained how to collect evidence as part of the investigation. Similar sessions are held three times and the forensics class learns how science is applied to real-life scenarios.)

Eight seniors in the health technologies program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are now state-tested nursing assistants (STNA’s) after completing the exam in May. The state-approved test is administered through D&S Diversified Technologies of Columbus and some students have been gaining experience in local nursing homes including Country Club Manor and Carriage Inn in Steubenville and Rolling Hills Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Bridgeport. Pictured are, front from left, Katelynn McWhorter, Allison Robinette and Shiann Hanket. Back: Bailey Elbright, Matelin Sterling, Haley Burgess, William Evans and Kristen Carroll.

Forty-five electrical trades and power mechanics students at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are obtaining scissor lift and aerial lift training to earn certification and sessions have been held for more than a week to get them prepared for a future career. Pictured are electrical trades instructor Buddy Davis getting a lift from junior Tom Martin as the student operates the equipment.

Ohio Sen. Frank Hoagland (R-30^th District) visited the criminal justice program at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School on Sept. 20 and spoke to seniors about the importance of attending training and his PTSD program for veterans, plus he told them to “trust but validate” if what people are saying is true. Pictured are, from left, Sen. Hoagland, Koby Hood, Sam Price, Emily Gubanez, Kaylee Carpenter, Kayla White and Alexis Rager.  

BLOOMINGDALE-Dave Lucas is helping students build upon their skills as the new carpentry instructor at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.

   Lucas, a Broadacre native who now resides in Colliers, most recently served as an intervention specialist in the Indian Creek Local School District but has experience in the carpentry field. He succeeds Steve Orwick, who retired this spring after 22 years, and is eager to help his nine seniors and 12 juniors prepare for the working world.

   “It’s nice working with the kids. They get hands-on experience and get ready for the construction industry,” Lucas said. “The skills I’m teaching can actually earn them money.”

   But the JVS holds significance for him since Lucas himself is an alumnus. He attended the school while a student at the former Wintersville High School and earned a two-year electronics certificate. After graduating in 1989, he went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in elementary education for grades K-8 with a minor in special education from West Liberty University in 2000 as well as a master’s degree in educational administration at Franciscan University in 2012. Lucas has worked with children of all ages as an intervention specialist and served at Indian Creek from 2001-10 and 2015-21, plus he served as a work-study coordinator with the Jefferson County Educational Service Center from 2010-15. He also has 20 years’ experience in the lumber retail field and 30 years in construction, which includes operating his own business from 2008-10. 

   Additionally, he is married and has a 14-year-old son. Lucas said he opted for a change and began his new stint on Aug. 19, and he is enjoying his time at JCJVS.

   “I enjoy doing carpentry work with the students. I went to school here and thought it was a good experience,” Lucas commented. “I had good teachers and it prepared me for my future.”

   He said juniors will get their feet wet by building sawhorses, birdhouses and toolboxes during the first semester while seniors will tackle larger projects such as the next modular home, and hopes are to begin the latter structure soon. For now, seniors are constructing interior walls, floors and decks. Meanwhile, Lucas leads the program with assistance from Mark Starcher and said he was pleased to be part of the JVS community.

   “It’s a nice learning environment for the students and a positive environment for the staff. It’s a friendly climate and safety is also important.”

   He also praised Supervisor/Principal Dan Hartman and Supervisor/Assistant Principal Andy Long for their continued support.

   “They have been very helpful to me.”

Youngsters are becoming budding artists as they paint with watercolors in the early childhood education program’s preschool class at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. Fifteen kids ages 3-5 participate on Monday to Thursday and take part in fun learning activities to get them ready for kindergarten. Lita Bennett, a junior in the ECE program, oversees a group during their art session and the program is led by instructor Becky Kelley with aide Deanna Hines. For more information, contact JCJVS at (740) 264-5545.

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Board of Education is looking forward to another year with a new member and a return to classes.

   The board met Tuesday and welcomed Andy Reeves, who was appointed to complete Randy Henry’s three-year term as representative for Toronto City Schools that expires on Dec. 31. Reeves, a Toronto resident, took the oath of office and his place on the board, but he is not new to local education. He was a special education teacher for 15 years and athletic director for six years at Toronto, followed by a five-year stint as director of special programs at Beaver Local Schools. His most recent post is as assistant superintendent at Carrollton, which he began three weeks ago. 

   He has served on the Toronto school board for the past two years and was eager to serve the JVS panel.

   “It’s nice to hear input from different districts. It not only helps the Toronto kids, but I also get different perspectives for my job.”

    JVS Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson welcomed Reeves aboard and said he would provide vast experience to his role.

   “I’ve known Mr. Reeves for several years and think he’ll make a great addition to the board.”

    Meanwhile, the board prepared for students’ return to classes for the 2021-22 school term, announcing an open house this Monday, Aug. 23. Juniors will attend from 4:30-5:30 p.m. with seniors at 6-7 p.m. Supervisor/Principal Dan Hartman said pupils will have a chance to meet teachers and staff, view their classrooms and labs, pay related fees and obtain their schedules and Chromebooks.

   “We’ll have conversations with the kids who may be coming in for the first time,” Hartman said. He and Supervisor/Assistant Principal Andy Long estimated that 331 students will attend this year and school begins on Aug. 24.

  Dr. Phillipson also provided an update on the start of school, saying work had been completed throughout the building from new carpeting and painting to window cleaning while floors should be done soon. He also introduced a resolution on COVID protocols which was consistent with state health guidelines. The policy authorizes the superintendent to issue guidance to students and staff regarding safety measures such as facial coverings. 

   “It means we’re following the ODH guidelines and they are strongly recommending masks if they are not vaccinated,” he said.

   Discussion ensued and board members noted that guidelines varied between school districts, with Steubenville mandating masks while Edison and Indian Creek were optional. They did note, however, that masks are mandated on buses to follow federal standards. Dr. Phillipson added there were protocols for vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals should they be exposed and have to quarantine. For now, schools may still conduct dances and students may congregate. He commented that the JVS would still take steps to ensure a safe environment for all who inhabit the building.

  “We have masks on, Plexiglas at the lunch table and the air is being filtered. Last year, we didn’t have an outbreak. We’ll respond if we need to, but hopefully we won’t need to.”

   “We can encourage any student who wants to wear a mask to wear a mask,” said JVS Board President Larry George.

   Dr. Phillipson said he could also contact the health department to facilitate vaccinations in the future, which for now is available to children ages 12 and over. 

   In related news, he praised school administrators, office staff, custodians and maintenance workers for helping to prepare for the start of school while Hartman and Long were also approved to make school closings and other emergency decisions in the superintendent’s absence.

  Among other action:

--The board heard updates from Hartman on teacher inservice and professional development plans and Long on the emergency operations plan. The EOP was later approved; 

--Approved an administrative salary schedule; 

--Approved a contract with the Jefferson County Educational Service Center to assign Don Ogden as a mental health professional from Sept. 2, 2021, to July 31, 2022; 

--Approved a contract with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office for a school resource officer for the upcoming school year; 

--Accepted an estimated $64,000 Small Rural Schools Achievement Grant for 2021-22 for operations; 

--Approved an alternative school service agreement with JCESC for the upcoming school year; 

--Revoked a bid for noncompliance and approved another from Dave Lancaster to purchase the modular home; 

--Scheduled the next board meeting for Sept. 21 at 6:30 p.m.

BLOOMINGDALE-The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Board of Education is building on the success of its carpentry program by selecting Dave Lucas as its new instructor.

   Lucas was named during the June 15 regular session and succeeds Steve Orwick, who retired this spring after 22 total years of service. Lucas, of Colliers, most recently served as a teacher in the Indian Creek Local School District and has operated his own construction business in the past. 

  His graduated from the former Wintersville High School and also earned a two-year electronics certificate from the JVS in 1989, then went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in elementary education and special education at West Liberty University in 2000. He earned his master’s degree in administration education from Franciscan University of Steubenville in 2012 and has worked with children of all ages as an intervention specialist. Lucas served at Indian Creek from 2001-10 and 2015 to the present, plus he served as a work-study coordinator with the Jefferson County Educational Service Center from 2010-15. He also has 20 years’ experience in the lumber retail field and 30 years in construction, which includes operating his own business from 2008-10. 

   Lucas was excited to begin his new duties and work with the students.

   “I appreciate the opportunity to come on board,” he said. “I love to work with kids. With my construction background, I want to get them ready to work.”

   As a JVS alumnus, he said he hoped to represent the school as an educator and also praised officials at Indian Creek for giving him a chance to teach in the district.  The board granted him a one-year limited contract effective Aug. 19.

   JCJVS Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said he would be an asset to the program.

  “He’s a really good person and brings a positive attitude,” Dr. Phillipson said. “He was a student here who wanted to give something back as an instructor.”

   Among other action, the board:

--Heard from Dr. Phillipson, who presented updates on the Local Professional Development Committee (LPDC) and Perkins funding review and read letters on E-Rate and Small Rural School Achievement (SRSA) program grant status regarding money for technology. He also discussed the Ohio Teacher Evaluation System (OTES) training he and administrators were undergoing;

--Heard from Supervisor/Principal Dan Hartman’s update on the master schedule and Supervisor/Assistant Principal Andy Long’s report on the student-parent handbook. Both items were later approved;

---Accepted a letter of resignation from William Polsinelli, maintenance/custodian, effective July 1;

--Approved the revised Fiscal Year 2021 permanent appropriations and adopted temporary appropriations for FY’22;

--Approved the renewal of a hardware service agreement and a software support agreement with PaySchools for Pay for It, secure online payment program.

--Approved payment to the Jefferson County ESC for the costs associated with JVS students taking credit recovery and enrichment courses via the Virtual Learning Academy.

--Approved the renewal of the district’s insurance policy with Schools of Ohio Risk Sharing Authority (McBane Insurance Agency) for property, auto and liability coverage;

--Approved a one-year, full-service agreement on all i2c installed equipment with i2c Technologies;

--Approved a contract with Gabbart for webpage design;

--Approved a resolution accepting the $51,000 bid received for the modular home built by JVS carpentry students with assistance from professionals and students in the electrical trades program;

--Announced the Comprehensive Continuing Improvement Plan;

--Set the next regular board meeting for July 20 at 6:30 p.m.

Ethan Masters, pictured at left, and Vinnie Marcino, seniors in the small animal science program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, practice some life-saving techniques on mannequins as they work to obtain First Aid/CPR certification. Students trained with Rebecca Kelley, early childhood education instructor at JVS and a certified first aid instructor through the American Heart Association.

BLOOMINGDALE-Transition to Work students are back on the job after the coronavirus impacted their ability to hone their job skills.

   Instructor Christina Henderson said her 12 juniors and seniors at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School have been performing tasks outdoors at Vaccaro Field, where they clean up after local games. The work allows them to get hands-on experience outside of school and she hopes they will also resume working for area businesses.

   “We’re only allowed to have them at Vaccaro Field because it’s outside, but here at school we’ve opened our school store to staff only,” she added. “That allows the students to get their skills by running and cleaning the slush and popcorn machines and making cookies.”

    TTW has also partnered with the health technologies and auto body collision programs to provide laundry services and will also clean the modular home built by the carpentry lab in preparation for its upcoming sale. In the past, students have performed tasks at six sites around the community such as helping with hounds at Gold Star Kennel in Cadiz, and Henderson has been in talks with others to provide more work opportunities for the pupils.

   “Hopefully, once the restrictions are lifted, we can get back to Kroger. That has led to jobs for students after they graduated,” she continued. “We’re in talks with other businesses and a lot of students are aligned or lining up with the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities. They are supports for our kids for job skills and offer job coaching and on-the-job training and transitions kids into adult jobs and adult lives.”

   The OOD will work with students like senior Devin Rea, who will take part in a summer job program and receive six weeks of on-the-job training sprucing up local parks, plus he will make some money along the way.

   “It’s great and I can earn a paycheck,” Rea said. “I want to save my money [because] the future is unknown.”

    Other students say they enjoy the experience and it helps get them ready to join the workforce.

   “I like helping the community,” said senior Angela Talbott. “It’s fun being on a team together and working outside.”

   “I like going out in the field, being with my friends and helping out,” added junior Hunter Springer.

   In the end, Henderson said it is all about preparing them for the real world.

  “Our whole goal is to make them successful contributors to society,” she concluded.

Seniors in the health technologies program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are now certified EKG technicians after passing an exam through the National Healthcare Association. It was the first time the exam was given in the school program and five students made the grade including, pictured from left, Rayven Ellis of Toronto High School, Haylee Blackburn of Indian Creek High School, Paige Boals of Harrison Central High School, Kacey Carothers of HCHS and Sierrah Walker of ICHS. Health tech instructor Tammy Sismondo said not only are the students certified but they also gain points toward graduation.