Southern Local School District

Southern Names Leaders, Talks Levy Plans

Posted 1/22/2025 at 10:29:21 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-The Southern Local Board of Education selected new leaders for 2025 and also addressed plans to seek a levy renewal during its recent gathering on Jan. 14.

Scott Hart and John Sawyer respectively were elected board president and vice president during the organizational meeting at Southern Local Jr./Sr. High School while Sawyer was chosen as legislative liaison and Jean Pastore as student achievement liaison for the Ohio School Boards Association. The board also approved a series of operational issues and set the meeting dates on the second Tuesday of each month.

Leaders are also taking another chance and seeking voter approval for a renewal levy this spring. The district initially sought to renew a 2.25-mill, five-year permanent improvement levy which included a half-mill additional levy for classroom facilities plus a 7.84-mill, five-year renewal levy for current expenses, but after the measures failed at the polls in November, the board opted to restructure plans and only put one issue on the ballot this April.

“We're not going to move forward with the permanent improvement levy and we are asking the community to support renewing the current expenses renewal levy,” said Superintendent Tom Cunningham.

He added that since it was a renewal, there would be no increases for taxpayers. Previous calculations indicated the measure could generate roughly $1.09 million annually over the five-year period and cost $162 per each $100,000 on the tax valuation.

“We have to take it to the county auditor but there are no new taxes and there is no tax increase,” Cunningham said.

School officials said the district itself could not promote the measure and a committee was being formed to carry out the task. Representatives of the school board, Southern Local Teachers’ Association and community were set to meet to discuss matters further.

“The levy committee will meet to formulate a plan and go from there,” Cunningham added.

Among other action, the board:

-Held a brief tax budget session and ultimately approved submitting the annual tax budget to the county tax commission and also conducted a brief records retention hearing;

-Accepted an anonymous $20,000 donation which will be used to support district families in need. Cunningham said the contribution is helping to provide clothing and food to beds;

-Named Pastore as the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center representative;

-Approved pencil-and-paper assessment testing for the Ohio State Test English/Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics for third graders effective for the 2025-26 school year;

-Approved supplemental contracts for 2024-25 with Andy Plunkett as junior high basketball coach, Bob Shansky as high school student council advisor and Courtland Kellogg as JV softball coach;

-Approved substitute staff for the present school year, including Calvin Sell as custodian, Elizabeth McKinnon and Katie Hitt as paraprofessionals and Lester Scott McNeil, Richard Haught as teachers. Natasha Grim was also named a full-time substitute teacher and will receive a stipend for curriculum, assessment and progress monitoring;

-Approved staffing agreements at Utica Shale Academy for William Watson, Laura Krulik, Carter Hill, Jocelyn Reed, Matt Gates, Nick Woods, John Wright, Dennis Bowers, Michael Skrinjar, Ashley Cannan, Kathleen Vennum and Mariah Hart.

-Approved the 2025-26 school calendar;

-Approved the retirement of bus driver Tracy Jones at the conclusion of the school year and wished her well in her future endeavors;

-Approved a memorandum of understanding with Kent State for College Credit Plus classes;

-Set the next regular session for Feb. 11 at 6 p.m. in the SLHS Media Center.

Real-World Studies Incorporated into Classroom

Posted 10/31/2024 at 9:15:20 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local High School science students are utilizing some real-world studies in their classroom.

Dr. Lisa Houck, who instructs biology, environmental science, anatomy and physiology, is incorporating techniques she learned during a Feed the World workshop this past summer. She was among several dozen attendants at the event, which was sponsored by the Ohio Corn and Wheat Producers organization and held at Rhodes State College in Lima on June 17-18. While there, educators learned about plant biology, biotechnology and ethanol production.

The Feed the World workshops allow educators to take part in hands-on STEM lessons which address state science standards in chemistry, biology, environmental science and middle school science, plus they get a chance to talk to industry experts, tour an ethanol plant and collaborate with each other and learn how Ohio Corn and Wheat was helping to feed the world. Topics include advancing technologies to help produce more with less and the latest research in the field, plus they study biotechnology, soil science, water quality, energy production and sustainable agricultural practices.

Dr. Houck plans to carry on those lessons with her own students and they will conduct testing in their science lab.

“We will be doing several labs that we did at the workshop on water quality testing and the evolution of corn cladistics,” she said.

She received $300 worth of lab materials as part of the program and said about 75 sophomores, juniors and seniors will be involved in her environmental science class during the second semester of the school year.

“The purpose is to determine water quality during our hydrosphere unit in environmental science to help students understand the importance of clean water and how pollutants can contaminate it. Corn cladistics will be used to teach students the evolution of corn when we cover evolution in biology.”

Dr. Houck said it was her first time utilizing the program and she hoped students gained an understanding of the processes.

Photo Caption:

Southern Local High School science teacher Dr. Lisa Houck, pictured front, fourth from the right, joined several dozen educators during a Feed the World workshop this past summer at Rhodes State College in Lima and plans to incorporate lessons on plant biology and water quality into their environmental science lab.

SLES Kids Learn about Fire Prevention

Posted 10/9/2024 at 12:28:29 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Students at Southern Local Elementary got a lesson in safety during Fire Prevention Week activities.

Representatives of the Salineville, Franklin Township and Highlandtown Volunteer Fire Departments paid visits on Oct. 3-4 where they met with grades PreK-2 to discuss what to do in case of an actual fire. Salineville and Franklin Twp. VFD’s were on hand with preschool and third-graders that Thursday while Highlandtown officials appeared on Friday to speak with kindergarten, first- and second-grade and multi-handicapped classes as well as display firefighter gear and emergency vehicles and even give the kids a fun lesson with the fire hose.

During his sessions, Highlandtown Fire Chief Jeremiah Cole addressed topics such as smoke detectors and “Stop, Drop and Roll.” Southern Local High School sophomore and HVFD junior firefighter Chase Utt also donned gear to show how emergency responders keep themselves protected during an emergency while the chief discussed the importance of creating a fire escape plan and including a meeting spot to ensure everyone got out safely.

“The teacher will give you a paper and you will do a fire escape plan with your family. Draw your house and how you get out of it,” he said. “The most important part is going to the same spot for a meeting place. If you get out, stay out and stay safe. I want you to practice your fire safety plan. I hope you may not need to use it, but you need to practice like your fire drills at school.”

Chief Cole said their designs would be included in a contest with winners from each grade level receiving a ride to school in a fire truck. This is the second year that Highlandtown provided rides and Cole said it has delighted the little ones.

“We had given them toy fire trucks as prizes in the past but this is more memorable,” he said.

At the conclusion, the kids had a chance to operate a hose from a pumper truck to “extinguish” a faux housefire, plus they received red plastic junior firefighter helmets, activity books and stickers to mark the occasion.

SLES Guidance Counselor Jackie Collins said Fire Prevention Week activities are generally held at the end of the month, but officials wanted to avoid colder weather and testing days. She added that the kids enjoyed the chance to learn about safety and experience meeting firefighters firsthand.

“They wanted to show the firefighter before and after they put on their gear and teaching them not to be afraid of a fireman in a suit,” Collins said. “They were also teaching ‘Stop, Drop and Roll’ and all of the kids have been excited for it.”

Photo Caption:

Southern Local Elementary first-graders got a lesson in safety from Highlandtown Fire Chief Jeremiah Cole and Southern Local High School sophomore Chase Utt, a junior firefighter who also donned gear as part of Fire Prevention Week activities. Officials from Highlandtown, Salineville and Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Departments spoke to grades PreK-3 on Oct. 3 and 4 about ways to stay safe, plus they displayed gear and emergency vehicles and showed kids how to operate a fire hose.

Southern Supporting Military, Safety Forces through Operation Gratitude

Posted 10/8/2024 at 9:52:16 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local Schools are showing their appreciation for active military personnel and first responders by holding a fundraiser for Operation Gratitude.

Collections began on Oct. 1 and will run through November, after which the donation will be made to the national non-profit to provide care packages to those serving in the military and on emergency crews. Operation Gratitude’s mission is to honor the nation’s brave men and women in uniform by creating opportunities to express gratitude and support. Junior high teachers Amanda Wrobleski and Todd Walters are coordinating the effort and said they are anticipating a very successful response.

“It’s going to go through the end of November and we are going to make a donation to Operation Gratitude in the name of Southern Local during the first week of December,” Wrobleski said. “I thought it would be a good way to thank our active servicemembers and first responders for all they do to keep us safe. I know this community has always been supportive of servicemembers and they’ve celebrated and supported them.”

Collection jars have been placed at the high school and elementary offices and students are to bring donations to their first-period class, where they are then collected in an envelope and added to the till. Wrobleski added that several people had made very generous contributions and exceeded her initial idea for a goal. She also plans to take contributions during upcoming parent-teacher conferences and during Veterans Day activities next month.

“Every year our school is so great at doing things for Veterans Day. I wanted to do something to give back and Operation Gratitude is a non-profit that directly benefits those who need it the most.”

Walters added that the organization could utilize the funds to create specific care packages for recipients and the gifts mean a lot to those serving abroad.

“A lot of people are serving overseas, and I experienced it. When you receive mail, it’s a big deal. They give a lot of gifts that make a difference,” he continued. “Amanda came to me with the idea and there was no way I could say no. She does things with so much enthusiasm and conviction. I appreciate her taking the bull by the horns and doing it.”

Both say they hope to make the collection an annual event and they were equally appreciative of the school and community for their support.

“We will be able to make a donation from the Southern Local community, and we’ve had outside donors and students donate.”

“A lot of people in the community are connected to the military, so it’s important,” Walters interjected. “Our school also supports the folks who protect our lives, the first responders and police officers. Our school feels strongly about it and is very committed.”

For more information about Operation Gratitude, go online to www.operationgratitude.com.

Photo Caption:

Southern Local Junior High School teachers Amanda Wrobleski and Todd Walters are collecting funds for Operation Gratitude, a non-profit organization which supports military members and first responders by providing care packages as tokens of appreciation. Collection cans are situated in the elementary and high school offices and donations will be accepted until the end of November, after which a donation will be made in the district’s name. Students also donate during first period and organizers add those contributions to the till. For more information about the organization, go online to www.operationgratitude.com.

Staffing, Upgrades Top SL Session

Posted 9/14/2024 at 12:19:07 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Staffing and updates topped discussions during the Sept. 10 Southern Local Board of Education meeting.

Transportation Supervisor Rob Marra said there will be a need for bus drivers with retirements looming in the near future and suggested ways to maintain a full staff.

“We should think about the turnover in the next four years. We’re running with substitutes,” Marra added. “It’s hard to get them and the new mechanic is certified. There’s no magic wand, so maybe look at retention. We might want to consider getting them for another year or two, maybe even retire-rehire.”

District Treasurer Greg Sabbato said the issue could be discussed during upcoming contract negotiations.

Meanwhile, the board approved a three-year contract for Southern Local Assistant Principal Jordan Wrask during the session. Wrask, who has served the district since 2023, said he was excited to continue his career there, especially since his son is now a student at SLES.

“It’s exciting. It feels great and it’s great to see the positive changes being made in the district,” he said.

The Guilford Lake native has since relocated to Salineville and previously worked in the district as a high school math tutor and teacher between 2015 and 2018. He later taught math at Lisbon and returned to his alma mater to instruct sixth-grade math and coach track, then he accepted the assistant principal’s post at SLES.

The board also accepted the resignations of high school English/Language Arts teacher Kyle Exline and cafeteria worker Dawn Gotschall. Both were wished well in their endeavors.

In other personnel matters, officials approved full-time substitute teacher Kate Spahlinger for the 2024-25 school year; a continuing contract for Julie Gates as a three-hour cafeteria worker; a one-year limited contract for Leonard McKenzie as a bus mechanics helper/sub bus driver; substitute teachers Connor Lewis, Larry Rudloff and Kristen Smith, paraprofessional Richard Haught and cafeteria worker and secretary Terri Jarvis; supplemental staff including Kyle Exline as boys’ golf coach, Dalton Kurtz-Cogar as junior high football coach, Alleigh Ingledue as volunteer volleyball coach, Nikki Lewis as head softball coach and Rich Sloan as assistant football coach; VLA grading assignments to Shannon Rodgers for English, Michele Skinner for math, Todd Walters for social studies and science for grades 4-9, Laurie Ronshak for art and Lisa Houk for grades 10-12 science; one-year contracts for high school science teacher Dustin Brown, elementary intervention specialist Heather Henderson and fifth-grade math teacher Sara Harris; Mariah Hart, Michelle Hart, John Vennum and Kayla Terdina as certified health workers at Utica Shale Academy; a series of supplementals including club advisors, special education, morning and afternoon duties, LPDC members and mentors; and a revised staffing agreement with the Jefferson County Educational Service Center.

During staff reports, leaders were updated on activities and projects throughout the campus. Wrask announced that SLES would promote positive behaviors through Cares Cards that are turned into the office. Student’s names would be selected each month along with a teacher for a reward while a group reward would be offered for grades K-5 at the end of each nine weeks, such as a party. He continued that a MAPS diagnostic benchmark testing was planned and a social-emotional learning curriculum was purchased for students to do online for the first 15 minutes of their day. He added that a Wonders English/Language Arts curriculum was also acquired.

Southern Local High School Principal Rich Wright said September was Attendance Awareness Month and incentives and certificates were being given to encourage kids to come to school. He added that the school acquired an IXL math and reading program for grades 6-12, plus Positive Behaviors and Intervention Supports (PBIS) was being incorporated into attendance and math testing to improve outcomes.

Superintendent Tom Cunningham also informed leaders of events through September, saying it was Suicide Prevention Month and the Family Recovery Center was working with the youth coalition on activities, plus there would be information and announcements on the P.A. system. He added that the Back to School Party on Aug. 29 was successful and more than 30 vendors were on hand. Other announcements included the installation of speed signs and fire and lockdown drills. Cunningham said he spoke with officials at Edison Local Schools regarding metal detectors in light of the tragic shootings in Georgia and he would have more information later.

Additionally, maintenance supervisor Charlie Puckett told the board about the many projects his crew completed over the summer, including hallway restrooms, the high school science room, changing of gas valves and stops, work on pipes and valves. Adding more sidewalk space and work on the HVAC system by changing filters and checking operations. Other improvements included more parking lot signs for administrators, replacing part of the air handler system in the mezzanine, adding an E-stop to the fire alarm system, changing filters, patching holes, moving trees and yearly inspections on the backflow system, sprinklers and the fire protection system.

Among other action, the board:

-Learned a new 83-passenger bus will be added to the fleet and officials were working to make a stop in Wellsville a little safer. Marra also informed leaders of plans to acquire LED and Angel lights to improve vision around the buses and implementing safety policies on the vehicles;

-Approved an agreement with Wills Mobility & Vision Services, LLC;

-Approved an agreement with Rea & Associates for federal funding;

-Approved a field trip for the SLHS FFA Chapter to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Ind., on Oct. 23-26;

-Set the next regular meeting for Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. in the high school media center.

Collins Joins SLES as Counselor

Posted 9/14/2024 at 12:04:40 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE- Jackie Collins is settling in to her new role as the new guidance counselor at Southern Local Elementary School.

Collins, of Boardman, joined the school on Aug. 19 and succeeds longtime counselor Larry Rudloff, who retired this spring after 50 years with the district. Collins has extensive experience with counseling students and transitioned from a similar position at Bio-Med Science Academy in Rootstown, where she served for the past three years. She said she looks forward to working with the estimated 381 pupils in grades PreK-5 and providing positive and motivating programs to help them achieve success.

“I’ve always liked working with people and in a group environment like education,” she said. “You are working with kids in need, but you are also doing positive things.

Collins hails from Cincinnati and obtained her undergraduate degree from Mount Vernon Nazarene University in 2000 with her school counseling degree from Youngstown State University in 2019 and another master’s degree from Asbury Theological Seminary. She previously worked at Youngstown East High School and other experience includes working with churches and wraparound services for Columbiana County, the latter involving home visits to work with families dealing with stress. She is also married with four teen-aged children.

She said she has felt very welcome while becoming acclimated at Southern.

“Everybody’s been super friendly and very helpful,” she added. “It’s been a great change for me.”

She noted that both Southern and Biomed Science Academy had a similar campus where elementary and secondary classes were housed in one structure, while she has worked with students of various ages at her former school and liked having the Southern Local Jr./Sr. High School counselors nearby if she needed help. Collins added that she wants to be accessible to students and be a source of support.

“I have an open door if they need someone to talk to and I want them to feel comfortable. I also want to continue programs such as Aiming High, Fire Prevention Week and Red Ribbon Week, but I’m also thinking of other programs to incorporate. I want that to grow.”

Collins concluded that the transition has been smooth and she feels at home at SLES.

“It’s a very warm community and everyone has been warm and friendly. It’s very family-oriented and you are a part of the community.”

Photo Caption:

Southern Local Elementary guidance counselor Jackie Collins is settling in to her new role and said she looks forward to being a source of support for students and also provide programs to help them achieve success.

Southern Hosting Back to School Party

Posted 8/20/2024 at 6:11:18 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local Schools will kick off the new school year with its annual Back to School Party on Wednesday, Aug. 28.

Activities will be held from 5-7 p.m. on the campus and will include live music, inflatables, vendors, school supply giveaways and lots more. Southern Local Elementary Principal Emily Brinker is coordinating the event and said there will be plenty for all ages to see and do.

“We’ll have live music, face painting, bounce houses, food, community agencies, vendors, school supplies and hygiene supplies,” she said, adding that more than 20 vendors will be on hand to distribute information and other items.

As of now, the vendors include Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services, Girl Scouts, MacLean/Martin Chapel of CARE Funeral and Cremation Specialists, Salineville Assembly of God, Ohio State University SNAP-Ed Nutrition Program, Community Action Agency (CAA) Mobility Management, AmeriCorps/Seniors RSVP, CAACC Head Start, CAACC Health, Behavioral Health and Dental Center, East Liverpool City Hospital, Family Recovery Center Prevention Education, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, Support Action Group, Renewing Hope LLC, Carnegie Library of Wellsville, Utica Shale Academy, Mercy Health Dental Care, One Bite at a Time Nutrition and Southern Local staff.

The district has held back-to-school events in the past and Brinker is hopeful for another good turnout.

“The purpose is to kick off the school year on a positive note,” she added. “With the help of the staff, we will make it turn out to be great.”

Southern gears up for its 2024-25 school year on Sept. 3.

Vulgamore Named SL’s Director of Special Services

Posted 8/20/2024 at 6:01:24 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Longtime intervention specialist Andrew Vulgamore recently began his new duties as Southern Local School District’s new director of special services.

Vulgamore, of East Liverpool, officially started on Aug. 1 after being hired during the July Southern Local Board of Education meeting. He served as an intervention specialist at Southern Local Jr./Sr. High School for the past eight years and was looking forward to his turn with the administration.

“I’m excited,” he said. “I want to make sure I serve the students of the district and ensure we can provide everything they need.”

He is a West Virginia transplant, graduating from Oak Glen High School in 1996 and subsequently earning his bachelor’s degree in secondary education and social sciences from West Liberty University in 2003. Vulgamore later obtained a master’s degree in special education from Western Governor’s University in 2016 and is currently completing his master’s in administration and education leadership at Grand Canyon University. He was an online teacher for Buckeye Online School for Success for more than a decade before heading to joining Southern’s tribe.

Additionally, he is married to his wife, Dana, and together they share three children, Payton, Linsey and Brody.

Vulgamore has worked with predecessor Laura Krulik, who moved on to become assistant superintendent at the Utica Shale Academy, to ensure a smooth transition. His duties involve overseeing special education needs within the district and he’s grateful to have the opportunity.

“I love it here. It’s a great school and a great community,” he said and thanked the school board for their support. “I want to thank the board for the opportunity to serve as the new director and for putting trust in me.”

Photo Caption: Longtime intervention specialist Andrew Vulgamore began his new duties as director of special services for the Southern Local School District this month and said he is looking forward to working with the district’s students to prepare them for the future.

Let There Be Light

Posted 8/20/2024 at 5:54:33 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

Southern Local High School’s Wigwam Stadium is getting some more illumination with the installation of new lighting. Musco Lighting provided the new equipment with installation by Richardson Electric of Steubenville, while the $147,000 project will improve visibility with brighter, more efficient LED bulbs and also offer some automated effects. Superintendent Tom Cunningham said the lighting is just one of the improvements made this summer after an estimated $519,000 turf replacement project was completed by FieldTurf to enhance the outdated field with a high-quality surface. Both projects were being financed through permanent improvement funds.

Wigwam Stadium Undergoing Upgrades

Posted 6/25/2024 at 6:57:44 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local High School’s Wigwam Stadium will have a fresh look when the Indians kick off their football season this fall as officials improve its surface and lighting.

Superintendent Tom Cunningham said work wrapped up on an estimated $518,906 turf replacement project and new material was purchased from FieldTurf, which has companies across North America including Buckeye Lake. Officials said the sod was of a higher quality and the stadium had not received improvements in years.

“We removed the old turf and put in new. This is upgraded field turf which has a longer warranty and is safer,” Cunningham added. “The field has extended its life and is 12 years old. It was worn out and it was time to replace it.”

According to its website, FieldTurf has completed more than 25,000 fields worldwide and installs a variety of specially designed turf from the multi-layer, dual-polymer CORE fiber to Classic HD to maximize durability and safety. The turf was installed by VASCO of Massillon beginning in May and was finished around June 12.

“The football field wrapped up and we need to schedule a walkthrough and inspection,” Cunningham said. “There are a couple of areas we want to take a look at before we sign off. Overall, everything looks fantastic.”

He added that the district was next looking to add some illumination with an estimated $220,000 lighting project this summer.

“We are upgrading our stadium lights as well and had a preliminary meeting with Musco Sports Lighting [of Iowa], which has done a majority of stadium lights. The lights will be delivered the first full week of August and we will have them installed for the first game.”

He continued that the current lights were installed during the 1990s and contained halogen bulbs, but there had been issues during a game last year and they were dimming in lumens. The project aims to help improve visibility by having brighter and more efficient LED bulbs.

Cunningham noted that both projects were being financed through permanent improvement funds. Meanwhile, leaders approved a $600,000, six-year loan from Consumers Bank to finish work at the stadium as well as potential locker rooms and restrooms for the wrestling room but there was no timeline for the latter plan.

Photo Caption: Workers with VASCO completed the installation of new field turf at Southern Local High School’s Wigwam Stadium on June 12, adding some much-needed new surfacing which will be long-lasting and safer for players. Lighting upgrades are also set for August and that work should be ready in time for kickoff of the new football season. Both projects total nearly $739,000 and are being defrayed through permanent improvement funds. Overhead Photo/EMILY FORBES BOWLING.

Collins Named School Counselor at Southern

Posted 6/18/2024 at 7:45:12 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-The Southern Local Board of Education took a series of action on personnel issues during its regular meeting, including the hiring of a new counselor for Southern Local Elementary.

During the board session on June 11, Jacquelyn Collins was named to replace longtime SLES counselor Larry Rudloff, who retired after a half-century with the district. Collins, of Boardman, currently serves as counselor at Bio-Med Science Academy in Rootstown and received a one-year contract for her new role which begins on Aug. 1.

Superintendent Tom Cunningham said Collins has worked with Biomed for the past three years, working with students in grades 10-12. She previously worked at Youngstown East High School and served grades 9-12 for a period of three years. She completed her internship at Poland Elementary and holds two master’s degrees, one in school counseling from Youngstown State University and a second from Asbury Theological Seminary. Additionally, she has worked with wraparound organizations in the community and has expertise in clinical counseling.

“She has a lot of experience developing and delivering lessons to students and she has experience in testing areas,” he continued. “She has her school counseling license and a clinical counseling license.”

The latter would prove helpful since school officials have been reviewing ways to develop social-emotional programming for elementary students, particularly to assist with mental health issues in light of COVID. Cunningham and SLES teacher Nancy Sakely, who is also a past high school guidance counselor, had addressed possibly procuring sustainable funding and resources to provide the curriculum. Officials said mental health awareness has grown since COVID occurred and children have not learned coping skills at home. Cunningham said Collins’ capabilities may help in that arena and aid students in the process.

“We’re just excited about her enthusiasm and overall expertise in the school setting and in the private sector,” he added. “We know her expertise will bode well for our district and the community.”

The board also approved a series of personnel matters, including the hiring of Corbin Stillwell, Alyssa Deeley and Tyler Rawlings as summer workers; various substitutes for the 2024-25 school year; Nikki Kellogg as high school cheerleading advisor, Cory Boyle as junior high girls’ basketball coach and Dan Spencer as assistant football coach under the supplemental list; Nikki Lewis as assistant softball coach; a one-year teaching contract for Bob Shansky for the 2024-25 school year; a one-year contract for Marjorie Hiller as central administrative technologies specialist; Jackie Giovenco as a substitute teacher; physical therapy agreements with Amy Purcell and Kelly Crosby; a series of stipends for personnel from Southern Local and Utica Shale Academy; the resignation of Kelly Malone as summer school teacher; the resignation of Jimmy Malone as junior high football coach; and a staffing agreement with Jefferson County Educational Service Center for the 2024-25 school year.

In other action, the board:

--Approved a contract with The Nutrition Group to continue providing food service for the district;

--Transferred $600,000 from the classroom facilities maintenance fund to the permanent improvement fund to use for campus updates;

--Approved a loan from Consumer’s Bank for stadium improvement;

--Approved a participating agreement with SORSA for school insurance;

--Approved the revised school calendar for 2024-25;

--Set the next regular meeting for July 9 at 5:30 p.m. in the SLHS Media Center.

Students Launch Catapult Project

Posted 6/7/2024 at 3:57:05 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Students at Southern Local Jr./Sr. High School put their math knowledge to work by designing catapults for a new learning project.

Teacher Kristin Hepner said her eighth- and ninth-grade Algebra classes had an opportunity to create their own mechanisms and used supplies paid for through a grant by Williams Energy. Company representative Rich Sloan, who also serves as a high school coach, gave a total of $2,500 to the school. The amount was divided between an after-school food program to nourish students participating in clubs, tutoring and sports beyond school hours while Hepner gained funds to provide some hands-on education.

“I’d found a sample online and really liked it. It’s a real-life application of quadratics and I finally got to do it,” she commented.

Hepner said she was in the right place at the right time when she met up with Sloan in the school office and learned about the grant. She applied and received $1,250 for her class that was used to purchase supplies to build the catapults. Hepner, who instructs a total of 76 students, said her two Algebra classes plus gifted and IEP students participated while her husband, Dan, brought the students’ ideas to life by constructing a few of the devices.

“We worked on projects for the last month and everything was paid through the grant,” Hepner added. “They made miniature catapults out of popsicle sticks, rubber bands, paper clips and hot glue and shot marbles, and then they created mid-sized ones and tested them by shooting ping pong and tennis balls. The large catapults were designed on paper and all four of my algebra classes submitted drawings, then my husband picked two and made them.”

The largest machines were put to the test outside on the school campus and pupils worked with items of various weight to study the numbers behind the projectiles.

“We had four-foot and eight-foot catapults and they used 5-pound to 75-pound weight bands,” she explained. “They were analyzing quadratic equations and finding formulas for all of them.”

Students Preston Pitts and Trenton Martin said they enjoyed the learning concept.

“It was really fun,” said Pitts. “If you get too much weight in it, it could break.”

“I learned how to shoot a catapult and it was fun,” added Martin.

And Hepner said she would love to continue the project next year and still had materials to make that happen.

“The kids want to do it again, and I might have my husband create metal arms for the catapults.”

Photo Caption: Southern Local High School students Amir Desellem and Trenton Martin practice using their catapult after designing the apparatus for an Algebra project. Teacher Kristin Hepner’s eighth- and ninth-grade students got a chance to create the equipment and launch balls as a way to put math to practical use. Materials for the project were purchased using funds from a $1,250 Williams Energy grant.

SLES Students Rewarded with Bikes

Posted 6/7/2024 at 1:10:43 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Two Southern Local Elementary School students have some sweet rides after being rewarded with bicycles for their tremendous efforts throughout the year.

Students had their names entered into a drawing as part of the school’s Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) initiative and the selection was made during the school’s awards assembly on May 29. Second-grader Remmi Rector received a new Diamondback Viper bicycle while fifth-grader Grant Utt gained a 1987 Dyno D-Tour freestyle bike which was refurbished by district Technology Coordinator Josh Manist and his son, Zane. Both rides feature the school’s signature blue-and-yellow color scheme while Utt’s version also includes the district’s logo.

SLES Assistant Principal Jordan Wrask said the elementary teachers identified students through academics and a PBIS focus and their names were entered into the drawing. Zane Manist had the honor of pulling the winners’ names at the end of the school year.

“They were students who went above and beyond academically...and had a positive behavior aspect,” Wrask said. “Josh’s son, Zane, drew the names and they were both there for the drawing.”

Wrask said some changes may be made for next year’s initiative so kids have more chances to win.

“We anticipate doing it differently moving forward. Next year, we’re going to be giving out C.A.R.E.S. cards throughout the school,” he said.

C.A.R.E.S. stands for Cooperation, Accountability, Respect, Effort and Self-Control and teachers will recognize a pupil based on each of the characteristics. Each time the student earns a card, their name goes into a monthly drawing along with the staff member who recognized them.

“We will keep track of how many cards the students get throughout the year and it will equal the number of times they are entered into the final reward drawing,” Wrask commented. “Grant and Remmi were so excited. It’s really nice to see that they not only liked them but are really using them.”

Meanwhile, Josh Manist said the recipients were very deserving.

“I was very excited to see who they went to. I knew it was meant to be when they pulled the names,” he added. “Grant is already modifying dirt bikes and is into riding, and Remmi was in love with her bike. She was really excited about it.”

Manist, Zane and nephew Nathan Hawkins busily restored the Dyno D-Tour and purchased the smaller Diamondback with the goal of presenting them to two lucky recipients who performed well through the PBIS program for good behavior and attendance.

The refurbished bicycle features remade 1987 graphics while with powder coating completed by Cline’s Power Coating of Toronto and supplies from school district staff member Bobby Westover. Manist said he and his family have collected and fully restored bikes from the 1980s and 90s and regularly ride them around the Toronto, Steubenville and Wheeling areas, but the latest project was meant to brighten up the life of another child. He noted there was a possibility that he might do it again.

“I think I’d like to build another one for next year, but with reversed colors of blue on yellow.”

Photo Cutline: Southern Local Schools Technology Coordinator Josh Manist and son, Zane, an eighth-grader at Southern Local Jr. High, presented bicycles to some lucky Southern Local Elementary students on May 29 for their efforts in academics and positive behaviors. The Manists gave fifth-grader Grant Utt a refurbished 1987 Dyno D-Tour bicycle while second-grader Remmi Rector earned a new, smaller Diamondback Viper in a drawing as part of a Positive Behaviors Intervention and Supports (PBIS) reward program and another giveaway may be eyed for next year.

Spirits Rise with Baking Project

Posted 6/6/2024 at 11:00:50 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Sixth-graders at Southern Local Jr. High School made spirits rise through a project with King Arthur Baking Company.

Teacher Amanda Wrobleski’s science classes took part in Baked for Good, its free outreach program that gives students a chance to prepare bread, rolls or other products for themselves and someone special in their lives. The students received eco-friendly bags full of flour, yeast and other materials in early May and got to baking shortly afterward. Wrobleski said the program marries education through cooking with an act of kindness.

“The Bake For Good program through the King Arthur Baking Company was a huge success for my students, families and the whole school community,” she said, adding that it provided numerous benefits for her students. “Every recipe makes two loaves, and they could keep one to eat with their family and give one to a person who was a positive influence.”

She made a presentation during the May 14 Southern Local Board of Education meeting and also provided members with samples. Wrobleski said she learned of the program last year and contacted a company representative to apply, after which she was accepted. The company shipped 60 bags containing golden wheat flour, all-purpose flour, yeast and a recipe booklet with a chart list to understand baking instructions.

“An area school was doing it and had a live presentation,” she said. “They offered to do a Zoom with us and walked through the steps of baking. The kids went home with the bags and made the bread. It’s really a win-win.”

Wrobleski said the students had opportunities to make basic loaves, braided loaves, pizza crust, and cinnamon rolls to knotted rolls and muffins. They also had a hands-on learning experience as they understood math through measurements and the science of chemical and heat reactions through the baking process. But more importantly, they created a bond with those who received the second loaf of bread.

“It’s a free outreach program for students with three goals: to bake, learn and share. They were sent home with an eco-friendly bag of supplies...and also included in the bag was a letter, written by the student in English/Language Art class, to the person with whom they chose to share the bread,” she continued. “The students were asked to share pictures of the baking process and of them gifting the bread to their chosen person.”

Among the benefits were the cross-curricular aspect involving ELA, math and science as well as life skills as they learned to bake. Additionally, it gathered students with loved ones for cooperative learning at home and taught them patients as they completed the approximately three-hour baking process. Most importantly, it taught them the meaning of giving.

“It’s a great feeling to give, and it’s equally great to receive!

Photo Caption: Southern Local Jr. High student Liam Sosack presented his grandmother, Mary Ann Sosack, with a loaf of bread as part of Baked for Good, a free outreach program his science class completed at school. Sixth-grade science students received bags of flour, yeast and other supplies and learned to make homemade bread products, saving one loaf for themselves and giving a second loaf to a special person in their lives. Teacher Amanda Wrobleski said there were myriad benefits for her class and the community through the program.

Mural Project Completed at Southern

Posted 6/6/2024 at 10:49:51 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-The walls at Southern Local High School look a lot brighter with the addition of a new mural.

Rogers-based artist Sara Gordon completed the design outside the teacher Laurie Ronshak’s art room as school closed for summer. Pupils and staff members even got involved as they painted shapes along the corridor, while Gordon touched up the scenery to finish the rendering. The design includes the phrase “Creativity Starts Here” and has examples of lines, space, movement, texture and shapes such as a paint palette, paintbrush, ink pen, scissors and more.

Ronshak said fundraising efforts began last year and ranged from T-shirt, candy and flower bulb sales to craft night events, garnering about $7,000 to pay for the project. Students then shared ideas and sketches with Gordon, who crafted the finished product.

“The mural is finished but the wall was completed around May 31,” she added. “Students what they wanted in the design, then she drew up a sketch, met with the Art Club and we discussed it.”

The design was submitted to the Southern Local Board of Education in April and was approved, then Gordon began the mural in early May.

“The kids started helping her paint over three or four days and they worked on base coats, highlights and shadowing,” she added, saying about 56 students assisted over time. “There were about four students at a time and [teachers and staff members] Robert Shansky, Kristin Hepner, Kelly Malone, Abby Dalton, Kylee Maple, Marjorie Hiller, Aimee Forbes, Lisa Houk and I also helped paint.”

She added that Gordon worked a few late hours to stay on target and many seventh- and eighth graders were involved.

“A lot came back as much as they could,” Ronshak noted. “It feels good to have achieved a goal that I’ve worked on for several years and to see it finally come to be. The energy level was high and there was excitement. I would like to continue the mural in the future.”

Several students said they were happy to be part of the project and it is something they hope future generations will also enjoy.

“Helping to design everything was the hardest, but the best part was the painting,” said sophomore Shaman Wieland. “It was fun.”

“It was really nice,” added sophomore Alli Myers. “It will be up for a long time.”

“I liked painting,” said freshman Hunter Kimble. “I like doing the activities.”

Photo Caption: Local muralist Sara Gordon completed a new rendering outside the art room at Southern Local High School after students raised funds for the project. Pupils and staff members were also involved in the painting process and art teacher Laurie Ronshak hoped to continue the project in the future.

Krulik Heading to Utica Shale Academy

Posted 6/6/2024 at 9:42:08 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE- Southern Local Director of Special Services Laura Krulik will have a new position this fall as she heads to the Utica Shale Academy as its new assistant superintendent.

Krulik, who has served Southern Local for the past 15 years, will begin the post on July 1 and said she hopes to make an impact with a new population of students.

“I will try to support students with special needs with intervention specialists and related service providers,” she said.

Krulik, a 2003 SLHS graduate, obtained a bachelor’s degree in secondary education with a focus on political science and a minor in special education from Bethany College, as well as a master’s degree in teacher leadership from Walden University and a second master’s degree in administration from Franciscan University. She returned to her roots as a full-time substitute teacher at Southern and then spent five years working as an intervention specialist in the junior-senior high building before being named director of special services in 2015. She and her husband, SLHS Assistant Principal Jess Krulik, have two grown children, Logan and Lily, and she said she was ready for a new challenge.

“I went into administration pretty young and I’d made the decision to work with [the Ohio State Support Team], but this opportunity came up,” she said. “Some things fell into place this year and it was time for a change. Moving from the director of special services to assistant superintendent is going to be different.”

USA, which is located in Salineville, offers blended learning with online studies through the Virtual Learning Academy provided through the Jefferson County Educational Service Center, as well as career-tech training to earn National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) certifications. The site is adding seventh- and eighth-grade classes at the newly acquired Williams Collaboration Center on East Main Street with introduction and safety courses and chances for students to explore career opportunities, while grades 9-12 delve deeper into training in megatronics, hydraulics, pneumatics, AC/DC electric, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC’s), welding, diesel mechanics and horticulture. Facilities include the Energy Training Center, Hutson Building and outdoor welding lab, which are also located on East Main Street and train both students and adults, and the Utica Shale Academy Community Center on Church Street that features a gym and community services. USA currently has about 200 students but anticipates growth with the addition of the junior high classes.

Krulik has assisted the community school for the past six years and said much of that work will continue, but with some added obligations.

“I worked with Utica Shale as an intervention specialist and wrote [Individualized Education Plans]. It’s added more responsibility every year and I’ve done gifted and special education, the same thing I’ve done at Southern. It’s a completely new position they’ve created and [USA Dean of Students] Carter Hill handles academics, behaviors and testing, and I will take on some of those duties.”

While at Southern, she has been actively involved with Southern Local High School’s Athletic Hall of Fame, its alumni banquet committee and also organized the annual district showcase. As she looked back on her time there, she said she has enjoyed the experience immensely.

“I’m sad to leave my kids and the staff, but I believe I’m leaving them in capable hands,” she said, adding she would assist with the change to her currently unnamed successor. “The intervention specialists can take care of the kids and will do a good job. It will be a smooth transition.”

Southern Local Superintendent Tom Cunningham wished Krulik well and said she would tremendously benefit the Utica Shale Academy.

“It’s difficult to lose quality people, but this is a great opportunity for Mrs. Krulik,” Cunningham said. “She has made a positive impact at Southern, not just as our special ed director, but in everything she does for the community, staff, students and parents. She will be a major asset for the Utica Shale Academy.”

Meanwhile, USA Superintendent Bill Watson welcomed her aboard and said she had plenty of experience to offer the community school.

“We're really excited to have Laura Krulik join USA. Laura is known for her dedication and hard work, and she has this amazing ability to get everyone excited about making a difference. We can’t wait to see the energy and positive vibes she brings to our team and students,” Watson concluded.

Photo: Laura Krulik

Rudloff Completes 50 Years at Southern

Posted 6/6/2024 at 9:25:13 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE- To say that Larry Rudloff has become a fixture at Southern Local Schools is an understatement.

He has spent a half-century working with students as both a teacher, coach and, until now, as guidance counselor at Southern Local Elementary, but he will hang up his hat come June 13.

He was an East Palestine High School graduate and received a bachelor’s degree health and physical education from Kent State University in 1974, followed by a master’s degrees in counseling from Franciscan University with courses through the University of Dayton during the 1980s. Rudloff arrived at Southern Local Schools in 1974 and spent 17 years teaching seventh- and eighth-grade physical education and health classes with another eight years in intermediate physical education. For the past 25 years, he has served as the guidance counselor at SLES and previously was a coach for the junior high school football, basketball and track teams.

He’s taught at various buildings, including the former Southern Local Jr. High and Southern Local Intermediate schools in Salineville and Highlandtown Elementary, working with hundreds of students throughout his tenure. Rudloff said he will miss them and the staff at Southern.

“I truly made a lot of friends,” he commented. “One of the rewarding things is the kids I taught in school have become my friends.”

He remains in contact with former pupils and current firefighters including Franklin Township Fire Chief Johnny May, Highlandtown Fire Chief Jeremiah Cole and Salineville Fire Chief Jeff Lewis.

“It’s rewarding to see what they’ve done and seen how they’ve given back to the community, and these positions are strictly volunteer,” Rudloff added. “There have been a lot of good memories...and I’ve enjoyed seeing the number of people who come back to teach at Southern Local. We’ve had eight or nine new teachers [who are alumni].”

Following his retirement, he plans to spend time with family in California and Georgia and enjoy the great outdoors hunting and fishing.

“It’s been great, and probably what sticks out more is this community has always been positive about the school. I’ve had people on the school board as students, and to volunteer your time on there to make the school better [is wonderful]. I love the success stories of students.”

School officials were thankful to Rudloff and said he has been a valuable part of the Southern Local community.

Southern Local High School Athletic Director Robert Shansky, who presented him with an Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) Award for Sportsmanship, Integrity and Ethics, said Rudloff embodied those characteristics.

“It’s for a person in the school or community who’s been a role model for students and athletes,” said Shansky. “I think he’s a good role model for the students and goes above and beyond what is expected. The faculty respects him.”

SLES Principal Emily Brinker said Rudloff will be greatly missed.

“I don't even know where to begin. He will be very missed by all. He's worked so hard for many years and now it is his time to relax and take it easy for a change. The countless hours and days he’s put in have never gone unnoticed,” Brinker said. “I congratulate him on his retirement and wonderful career. We are all incredibly grateful for the mark that he has left here at Southern Local. We will miss having him here in the office every day, but he deserves this. Life begins now, so enjoy every minute!”

SLES Assistant Principal Jordan Wrask had one regret, though.

“I wish I had more than just one year of working with him,” said Wrask, who just began his duties this year. “It’s obvious to see the impact he’s made. He’s a local legend. I will miss the time we’d talk about high school sports.”

Superintendent Tom Cunningham noted that Rudloff has been an instrumental figure within the district.

“Mr. Rudloff means so much to the Southern Local community. He has had a positive impact on so many, not only during their school years, but also into adulthood. I have had the pleasure to work with Larry for several years and will miss his stories, his professionalism, his friendship, his attention to detail and most of all his passion as an educator to make a difference,” he commented. “I speak on behalf of everyone in wishing him the best in his retirement.”

As he prepares to say goodbye, Rudloff is tremendously grateful for the opportunity to work in the district.

“It’s been a great career,” he said. “I’m very glad I chose it and I’m very glad it was at Southern.”

(Photo Caption: Southern Local Elementary School guidance counselor Larry Rudloff is capping off a half-century in education, including many years of teaching and coaching within the district. The East Palestine resident has taught and guided countless students through the years and is thankful for being part of their lives and the district. His last day is June 13.)

Monster Bash

Posted 5/30/2024 at 4:49:35 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

Southern Local Elementary School leaders rewarded students for raising more than $2,700 for the American Heart Association by dressing as characters from the movie, “Monsters, Inc.” and holding a picnic on May 22. Fifth-grade student Maci Ketchum was the top fundraiser with roughly $260 and she is pictured with, from left, school nurse Heidi McIntosh as Roz, school nurse Ashley Dowling as Celia Mae, physical education teacher Kathy Randolph as Mike Wazowski, SLES Principal Emily Brinker as Boo and district Director of Special Education Laura Krulik as George Sanderson with SLES Assistant Principal Jordan Wrask in the back as Sully. Kids enjoyed hotdogs, hamburgers and ice cream outdoors as part of the celebration.

Senior Walk

Posted 5/30/2024 at 4:37:00 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

Southern Local High School Senior Class President Rylee Mellott leads her fellow graduates during the senior walk at Southern Local Elementary on Wednesday, where they were cheered on by youngsters in the building. Graduation festivities are set for Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. in the school gym.

Redfern an Early Graduate

Posted 5/30/2024 at 4:26:13 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

Southern Local High School senior Logan Redfern collected his diploma a little early since he will be participating in the OHSAA Division 3 Regional track meet on May 24. The event coincided with Southern Local’s commencement exercise and Redfern, the son of Tom and Dara Redfern of Kensington, will run in the 3,200-meter race at Norwayne High School in Creston. He accepted his diploma from Southern Local Board of Education member Frank Shagnot during the SLHS Senior Assembly on Wednesday. Coach Kathy Randolph said she and her fellow coaches were proud of Redfern, who held his best time of 10:27 and set the EOAC league record.

Southern Local Holds Senior Assembly

Posted 5/29/2024 at 1:24:04 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local High School gathered its graduating students and families for the annual senior assembly and disbursed more than $440,000 in scholarships.

Nearly 60 seniors were joined by their families, school officials and junior class members and scholarship presenters for the event on May 22 in the high school gym, where senior class advisor Robert Shansky welcomed the crowd.

“We have a lot of recognition for these young people and what they have achieved,” Shansky said, later noting that students had earned an estimated $441,000 in scholarships to continue their education.

He also announced Class of 2024 officers, which included President Rylee Mellott, Vice President Ashley Shroades, Secretary Aleah Bach, Treasurer Esther Forbes and Historian Natalie DeSellem.

A series of scholarships were then presented and included the following:

--Aleah Bach: Sophia Women’s Center Scholarship for $1,000; Franklin B. Walter Scholarship nominee, $100; Mount Union Trustee Scholarship, $22,000 per academic year ($88,000 total); Governor Merit Scholarship, $5,000 per academic year ($20,000 total); BMWED Scholarship, $5,000; American Legion Scholarship, $1,000; Tri-State Trillium Foundation Scholarship, $500; WKBN Academic Excellence Award; 4H Honor Green and White Cord; OHSAA Scholar-Athlete Award; and graduating from Eastern Gateway Community College with Associate of Arts degree;

--Justus Black, Marcus K. Walter Scholarship, $500;

-- Gabriel Blissenbach, Carroll Electric Children of Members Scholarship, $1,000; OVAC Daniel M. Burke Memorial Wrestling Scholarship, $1,500 West Liberty University Wrestling Athletic Scholarship, $3500 per academic year ($14,000 total); Marcus K. Walter Scholarship, $900; Columbiana County FFA Alumni Scholarship, $200; K.L. Martin Award, $325; Kim & Ashley Bergman Memorial Scholarship, $1,250; American Legion Scholarship, $1,000; OHSAA Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award; Eagle Scout Award – highest rank in The Boys Scouts of America. The Eagle Scout Award took seven years to complete and only 4 percent of members become Eagle Scouts. Blissenbach completed his Eagle Scout project by building a 2,400-square-foot picnic patio area for the Village of Salineville;

--Lindsey Bregar, Manzilla Multicultural Award, $2000 per academic year ($8,000 total); Mount Union Trustee Scholarship, $19,000 per academic year ($76,000 total); Mount Union Trustee Scholarship- On Campus, $3,000 per academic year ($12,000 total); Ohio College Opportunity Grant, $5,000; Mount Union Cheerleading Scholarship, $1,000 per academic year ($4,000 total); University of Mount Union Scholarship, $8,895; Marcus K. Walter Scholarship, $1,200; Columbiana County FFA Alumni Scholarship, $200; Ira Lewis Thompson Scholarship, $250; Growe Scholarship, $1,500; and OHSAA Sportsmanship, Ethics and Integrity Award;

--Natalie DeSellem, Sophia Women's Center, $500; Joleen Ackerle Cattrell Scholarship, $500; American Legion Scholarship, $1,000; Red Cross Scholarship, $100;

--Alexis Ensinger, The University of Akron Merit Scholarship, $4,000 per academic year ($16,000 total); Red Cross Scholarship, $100; American Legion, $1,000; Ira Lewis Thompson Scholarship, $250; and OHSAA Courageous Student Award;

--Kenneth Frischkorn, American Legion, $1,000, and OHSAA Courageous Student Award;

--Evan Haught, Youngstown State University Red & White Scholarship, $2,000 per academic year ($8,000 total); Red Cross Scholarship, $100;

--Jaden Morris, graduating from Kent State University with Associates of Business degree;

--Hunter Robinson, Geneva College Founders Scholarship, $17,500 per academic year ($70,000 total); American Legion Scholarship, $1,000; Matthew Puckett Scholarship, $1,000; and OHSAA Scholar-Athlete Award;

--Logan Redfern, OHSAA Sportsmanship, Ethics and Integrity Award;

--Ashley Shroades, Wheeling University, $20,000 per academic year ($80,000 total); Columbiana County Basketball Coaches Association, $500; OHSVCA District 1 Scholarship, $500; OVAC All-Star Basketball Classic - Bette Ponzo Memorial Basketball Scholarship, $250; American Legion Scholarship, $1,000; Sixth Rank in Class Award, $1,078; OHSAA Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award;

--Joseline Stanley, Marcus K. Walter Scholarship, $900; Columbiana County FFA Alumni Scholarship, $200; Ira Lewis Thompson Scholarship, $250; American Legion Scholarship, $1,000; Growe Scholarship, $1,500; Receiving full-ride scholarship to Kent State University-Salem through Rising Scholars.

Graduates included Jared Adams, Shianne Aderhold, Alivia Allender, Aleah Bach, Athan Baker, Justus Black, Gabriel Blissenbach, Lindsey Bregar, Aiden Brothers, Kira Cutlip, Hunter Dalehite, Natalie DeSellem, Maddox Dickey, Jesse Dickson, Wesley Dickson, William Dickson, Chloe Echols, Alexis Ensinger, Ryan Exline, Esther Forbes, Ayden Frischkorn, Kenneth Frischkorn, Joshua Gilliam, Evan Haught, Seth Hawk, Richard House, Sara Johnston (posthumously), Landyn Kauffman, Kaitlyn Ketchum, Madison Ketchum, Jonathan McCartney, Kaiden McCulley, Rylee Mellott, Jaden Morris, Marah Morris, Gage Murphy, Lillian Patterson, Hannah Phillips, Preston Phillips, Jenea Powell, Linken Price, Tyler Rawlings, Logan Redfern, Hannah Reynolds, Paige Riggs, Hunter Robinson, Brayden Samberson, Frank Shagnot, Ashley Shroades, Markell Smith, Margaret Staley, Joseline Stanley, Roger Swett, Dakotah Tanley, Chelsei Veglia, Spencer Verzella, Orion Wiley and Chance Williams.

Seniors were also selected to receive honor cords while class officers presented the class history and a class prophecy, the latter being a fictional story about the class reunion, plus a satirized last will and testament depicting what the seniors would give to their peers. Juniors were moved to the honored senior spot in the bleachers and Rylee Mellott shared some final words with her classmates before they left the hallowed halls of Southern Local.

“Each of us has worked tirelessly over the past four years, and today, we have the opportunity to recognize and honor the outstanding contributions of our peers. From nervous freshmen to confident seniors, it’s truly remarkable how far we’ve come,” she said. “Throughout our time here, we’ve faced countless challenges, both individually and as a class. Whether it was navigating through a tough class, balancing extracurriculars with academics or overcoming personal obstacles, we’ve shown resilience and determination every step of the way. As we stand on the threshold of a new chapter in our lives, let us carry with us the lessons we’ve learned and values we’ve embraced during our time here. Let us continue to strive for excellence, to pursue our passions with unwavering determination and to lift each other up as we navigate the road ahead.

“Class of 2024, as we bid farewell to these halls and set our sights on the future, let’s remember that the best is yet to come. So, here’s to us, to our journey and to the endless possibilities that await."

Photo Caption: Southern Local High School recognized members of the Class of 2024 during its senior assembly on May 22 and awarded more than $440,000 in scholarships plus other awards for their achievements. Pictured is senior class advisor Robert Shansky addressing the crowd.

Bowling Attends Air Force 2024 Civic Leaders Flight for Educators

Posted 5/29/2024 at 12:52:57 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local High School music director Emily Forbes Bowling has always had an interest in flying and got a unique opportunity to participate in the Air Force 2024 Civic Leaders Flight for Educators.

Bowling was among 32 local educators from Ohio and Pennsylvania who were chosen to take part in the event at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station on May 10. The group spent the entire day taking part in base tours, safety demonstrations, virtual reality flight simulators and informational meetings about the recruitment opportunities available in the 910th Airlift Wing. The highlight of the day was a flight on a C-130 aircraft through the Lake Erie airspace to Niagara Falls, where officials opened the back hatch to let them enjoy the view.

An experienced pilot in her own right, she was invited to attend by SSGT Mae Murch, a flight engineer on the C-130s, and said it was a memorable experience.

“I have landed at the Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport many times as a civilian pilot but had never been on the Air Reserve Station side before,” she added. “The event was for teachers within the YARS recruiting area, and we attended presentations about the opportunities that could be available to our students so that we could help them understand all the great career options on the base. It was amazing! We see them flying over our area all the time, but I never dreamed I would get to fly in one.”

Bowling also helms an aviation class at SLHS which typically includes 50-60 students. She said students learn about the history of aviation, aerodynamics of flight, airplane parts and instruments, airport operations, navigation and drones. They also utilized a flight simulator to practice “flying” around the world.

“At the end of each year, students get to visit an airport where they get to talk to local pilots and see a variety of real airplanes, helicopters and drones.”

Photo Caption: Southern Local music director Emily Forbes Bowling attended the Air Force 2024 Civic Leaders Flight for Educators on May 10, joining more than 30 educators from Ohio and Pennsylvania at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station for tours, safety demonstrations and even a flight on a C-130 aircraft to Niagara Falls. Bowling is pictured here with the aircraft.

Hundreds Appear for Southern Local District Showcase

Posted 5/15/2024 at 5:04:25 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Hundreds of people didn’t let a little rain hinder them during Southern Local Schools’ 16th annual District Showcase on May 7.

Despite a few raindrops, the sun and warmer temperatures drew students, families and community members to the Salineville campus to view classroom projects and music and art exhibitions, as well as meet school officials and community agencies. Organizer Laura Krulik, district director of special services, said more than 30 tables were on hand from area universities, agencies and even Southern Local clubs. The public had a chance to view the professional mural underway outside the art classroom and even bid on original student artwork and the Souterhn Local High School Tomahawk Club provided a fundraising spaghetti dinner feast in the elementary school cafeteria to benefit athletes, plus popcorn and candy were sold as a school moneymaker in the high school gym. Games, raffles and giveaways were also on tap while the SLHS FFA held its popular petting zoo with a menagerie including chickens, ducks, pigs, a calf, rabbit, sheep, goats and miniature ponies.

Approximately 40 community agencies, medical groups and school-related organizations provided information, talked to attendants and even offered some giveaway items. Vendors ranged from the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Christina House and Columbiana County Department of Job and Family Services to Highlandtown Church, Salineville Church of Christ and Ozer Ministries. There was something for all ages from Head Start to the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and support for physical and mental health, such as The Counseling Center, Mental Health and Recovery Board, East Liverpool City Hospital, Akron Children’s Hospital and the Kent State University Salem School of Nursing.

Krulik said the event has been a successful attraction each year and this time was no different.

“It’s typical to what we normally have with the turnout,” she said. “We had 45 booths, which is the most we’ve had, and there were more animals in the FFA’s petting zoo and more community agencies then we’ve had in the past. I’ve worked with the Family and Children First Council and it’s helped get the word out [for vendors].”

She said the showcase was started to share the students’ success with the community and the date was changed to May to follow state testing and wind down the school year. The event has drawn thousands of spectators over the years but took a brief hiatus during the COVID pandemic in 2020.

Meanwhile, children and adults alike enjoyed the showcase and all it had to offer.

“I liked the piggies and miniature ponies,” said Kamryn Parrish, a third-grade student at SLES.

Her mother, Amanda Cosma, said she also liked the event, especially the animals.

Even school leaders were delighted with the turnout.

“It’s a great way to show off the students’ accomplishments. The teachers take pride and the community has really shown up for it,” said SLHS Principal Rich Wright.

“The teachers and students work hard and put a lot of time and effort into projects and show what we have to offer,” added Southern Local Elementary Principal Emily Brinker. “It’s always a good turnout. Mrs. Krulik does a fantastic job and this wouldn’t be possible without her.”

District Superintendent Tom Cunningham concurred.

“It’s a great tradition in the district and it’s wonderful to have so many community members in the building to see the great things our students and staff do throughout the year,” Cunningham concluded. “It’s awesome to see our students excited to share with their family members.”

(Photo Caption: Eli Harris, a kindergartener at Southern Local Elementary and son of Mike and Sara Harris of Lisbon, gets a blood pressure check from Diane Hill, a nurse and faculty member at Kent State University Salem’s School of Nursing, during the 16th annual District Showcase on Southern Local Schools’ campus May 3. Hundreds turned out to view classroom projects and exhibitions, meet with community groups and enjoy a variety of activities. This is the 16^th annual event and the district showcase shares student successes while also winding down the school year.)

Bach Receives Franklin B. Walter Award

Posted 5/1/2024 at 7:55:26 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

Southern Local High School senior Aleah Bach received the Franklin B. Walter Award during the Heads Above the Rest breakfast program on April 25 and earned a $100 scholarship as a nominee. Bach, the daughter of Brandon and Aubrey Bach of Hammondsville, was among the students recognized at the event, which was sponsored by the Columbiana County Educational Service Center and held at The Barn at Firestone Farms in Columbiana. The Franklin B. Walter All-Scholastic Award Program was established by the Ohio Educational Service Center Association (OESCA) to promote and recognize outstanding academic achievement. One senior from each Ohio county who is nominated by an ESC is eligible to receive this honor each spring.

District Showcase at Southern

Posted 5/1/2024 at 5:43:43 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local Schools will wind down the academic year with its popular District Showcase on May 7.

Organizer Laura Krulik, district director of special services, said festivities will be held at the campus from 5-7 p.m. and students, their families and community members can enjoy various learning activities, raffles, organizational booths and other events. Krulik said the date was changed to May in order to follow state testing and bring the school year to a close.

Participants can enjoy viewing projects and student artwork displays, musical performances, a Southern Local High School FFA petting zoo and health fair, among other attractions. Approximately 40 community agencies, medical groups and school-related organizations are anticipated and will provide information, talk to attendants and even offer some giveaway items. Among the agencies on hand will be the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Christina’s House, Columbiana County Department of Job and Family Services, East Liverpool Health Systems, COAD, Blue Sky Employment, CAACC Health Behavioral Dental, Kent State University- Salem School of Nursing, OSU Extension, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, Ozer Ministries, Brightside Project, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Senior Support Action Group, Help Me Grow, CAA Head Start, Mental Health and Recovery Board, MCTA and Akron Children’s Hospital.

“There will be community organizations, a high school choir concert, basket raffle, fundraisers, student work displays and presentations, science experiments, art awards, physical and mental health providers and more,” said Krulik. “Last year, the event really grew because of networking I had done. This year, we are looking at a similar-sized event.”

She said the event has drawn thousands of people during the past 16 years, but it took a brief hiatus during the COVID pandemic in 2020. Krulik hopes to see plenty of people turn out for the latest showcase.

“The purpose of the District Showcase is to share the successes of our students with the community,” she concluded.

Toma: “Your Struggle Will Become Your Strength”

Posted 3/26/2024 at 12:13:58 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Motivational influencer Jordan Toma brought his message of belief in oneself and overcoming adversity to Southern Local High School on March 21.

Toma, of New Jersey, shared his story and how his struggles with dyslexia, anxiety and ADHD ultimately became his strengths and led him on the path to a better life. He addressed roughly 300 sixth to 12^th graders in the school gym and distributed T-shirts and copies of his self-penned book, “I’m Just A Kid with an IEP,” to the students amid interactive question-and-answer sessions.

He said he grew up with a lot of self-doubt and was teased about being “the dumbest kid in class,” but his mom, Debbie, was his cheerleader and believed in him enough to motivate him. Toma said those the students believe are “annoying” and who push them to work for something are the ones to appreciate because they are positive influences.

“In my life, I struggled through everything. My mom believed in me so much. [There’s someone] who believes in you, the one who loves you the most...can see your gifts. Your struggle will always become your strength.”

He shared a video of a “Today” interview featuring him and his mother and how her love helped him overcome his personal obstacles. Toma told Southern students that his years in junior and senior high were difficult, so much so that he wouldn’t go to class at public school and received failing grades. He faced hardships when his anxiety got the best of him and caused panic attacks when he got to school and when classmates were mean and taunted him. He missed 100 days of school during his sixth-grade year and his anxiety attacks became a disruption and led to bus suspensions. The absenteeism trend continued through eighth-grade and then he attended a private school during his freshman year, but he was struck another blow when a teacher questioned whether he wrote a paper he spent so much time working on. He stopped going to class and failed out of private school but eventually transferred back to the public school system.

All he wanted was to be a regular student but believed it would never happen.

“I thought anxiety would control my life forever. I would try to run from it but the anxiety got worse,” he continued. “How many of you felt like you didn’t want to be you anymore and you wanted to change to be someone else? In your life, we always struggle. You will overcome all of the struggles and opportunities will present themselves. You are exactly who you’re supposed to be. There’s only one of you.”

He said he learned many life lessons, such as not being defined by the grades he received but by the work he did to achieve them. He worked with an individualized education plan, or IEP, and had a 1.7 GPA and little chance to attend college. Toma said he received rejection letters from 15 colleges before being accepted into the STEP Ahead program at Centenary University in his home state. STEP Ahead is an intensive summer residential program providing specialized support for students who face academic, social or emotional challenges as they transition to college. He learned of the acceptance on the same day he was suspended for committing a senior prank. Although his principal said he couldn’t walk for graduation, the official changed his mind and Toma received his diploma.

But Toma was angry about the eight-week summer transition program which involved tutors and mental health counseling, and he screamed that he hated his mother for pushing him to attend.

“I called the director, Chris, and said I wasn’t going. He said, ‘We’re giving you a chance. If you don’t take this chance, you will never change your life.’”

His mother would drive him one hour away to the campus, and his thoughts of jumping out of the car – something he had done many times in the past—were thwarted when she locked the doors to prevent his escape. Toma made it to the campus and decided to take that leap of faith.

“I said, ‘What if my mom is right?’ I went to class and sat in the front row, even though I’d always sat in the back.”

His luck would change and he received his first “A” on an assignment. He graduated the program with a 4.0 GPA and was awarded as the hardest worker, and then he eventually graduated college with a 3.3 GPA and a psychology degree with plans to counsel school students. However, his path led him in a different direction and his first job was selling windows. He was disheartened about the experience and complained to his mother, who gave him another piece of advice.

“I told my mom I didn’t learn anything that I use for my job. She said, ‘You aren’t always going to use everything you learned in college.’”

Toma said the effort students put forth in school continues in the real world, and he decided to work hard and succeed at his job. He became a top seller and would later find a new career as a financial advisor. He studied hard for the related test, which he failed, but made a second attempt and passed. He succeeded in that vocation and currently operates his own insurance business. He created his platform, I’m Just a Kid with an IEP, and spent two years writing his book, which he self-published after companies rejected it. He also decided to travel to schools and encourage youth to overcome adversity and his social media following boasts nearly 3 million people while his book has sold more than 100,000 copies.

“What got me here was all of my failures, all of my doubts,” he said as he gave more assurances to the students. “We all wind up at a different pace. I promise you that all of your time is coming.”

(Photo Caption: Motivational influencer Jordan Toma visited Southern Local High School and addressed about 300 junior high and high school students on March 21. Toma, who suffered learning disabilities and anxiety as a child, has built a social media following and travels the world encouraging youth to overcome adversity and find their personal strength.)

Southern Seeking Social-Emotional Curriculum for Elementary Students

Posted 3/25/2024 at 11:56:57 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local school officials are seeking ways to develop social-emotional programming to help young students on the elementary level.

Nancy Sakely, a past high school guidance counselor and current teacher at Southern Local Elementary, joined Superintendent Tom Cunningham for a meeting with Ohio Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana) about procuring sustainable funding and resources to provide a social-emotional curriculum for youngsters. Sakely said mental health awareness has grown since COVID occurred and children have not learned coping skills at home. While programs exist for high schoolers and adults, she said they are lacking for younger children.

“It was starting before COVID, but COVID impacted mental illness because of isolation,” she said, adding that students have had issues with self-control, not handling adversity, poor sportsmanship, attention and following directions. “I saw a news story on a program implemented for high school students and how it positively impacted the students they were working with, and I wondered why there wasn’t anything for elementary students. We could alleviate a lot of issues at the high school level if we can tackle it at the elementary level.”

She reached out to the superintendent and also corresponded with Rep. Robb Blasdel about seeking sustainable funding to provide a program for the younger children. One idea is to develop a proactive curriculum for the students during their special time and help them learn to make good choices, thereby decreasing issues as they grow older.

“If we work at the elementary level, we can impact students enough that there would be fewer incidents at the high school level because they will have the tools to help deal with adversity,” Sakely added.

At the meeting, she discussed how the program could be implemented, noting that guidance counselors wears many hats and are used differently in every district, so they may not have time to meet with every child. Her hope was to have an instructor on hand to meet with students in groups and individually and to assist with coping skills and age-appropriate supports.

“I want it to be implemented in a way that supports instruction and needs teachers see in the classroom, and most importantly, it supports the students. Maybe it could be included as a special time class, and if there’s a need for help the child can be referred. Classroom teachers are not trained in providing this need,” she continued. “If they are providing it, it takes away from instruction. I’d like to see it at all schools in Ohio because the state tends to be a leader, and this is another way that Ohio can be a leader. The curriculum is there. It can be implemented quickly with the right supportive bodies to determine age-appropriate lessons. If there’s one good outcome, hopefully it’s the recognition of a population that needs better served.”

Cunningham said Sakely approached him about students’ social-emotional well-being and was seeking avenues because school counselors were overloaded. He said schools regularly deal with discipline issues, but agreed the amount has greatly increased since the COVID pandemic.

“Every school has s always had issues and we’ve definitely seen a rise since COVID with discipline and coping skills. They’ve just multiplied,” he said. “There isn’t a lot of mandatory federal or state funding for elementary schools. If we can work with students at an early age with self-esteem and making good decisions, it would benefit them. We met with Rep. Robb Blasdel about funding and she said she was meeting with representatives in Appalachian counties and work with them. She thinks it’s a good idea and would like to help us.”

Officials looked at some resources including LifeWise, which is an after-school program, but Cunningham said not all students would participate.

“We’re looking for something to focus on students during the school day, not just grants but something sustainable for a few years. Our next step is to reach out to local organizations. We’re looking for something students can familiarize themselves with and feel more open and comfortable,” he concluded. “We want to give our students as many tools as possible to be successful in school as well as adulthood.”

Kelly Bear C.A.R.E.S. Program Teaches Kids about Character

Posted 3/13/2024 at 2:00:40 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Kindergarten students at Southern Local Elementary will be learning all about positive character with the return of the Kelly Bear C.A.R.E.S. program in April.

School Security Officer Jeff Haugh will oversee the program, which is set to run each Thursday from April 11-May 30. Kelly Bear C.A.R.E.S (Character and Resiliency Education Skills) was developed for use by counselors, teachers and others who work with groups of children in kindergarten through third-grade. The age-appropriate multimedia program assists children in developing a positive attitude toward themselves and others, as well as promotes social competence, problem solving, self-control and perseverance. It also teaches kids about personal safety, refusal skills and healthy living habits and empowers them to accept responsibility for their behavior.

Haugh, who has led the program for the past several years, will share related videos with the students and teach lessons on the fundamentals of making good choices.

“We will talk about feelings, emotions and integrity,” Haugh said. “It’s strictly for kindergarteners.”

Lessons will include a different video each week, along with reading and other activities. Officer Haugh said his young charges definitely benefit from the program.

“They do learn a lot and there is a lot of interaction between us.”

The Kelly Bear C.A.R.E.S. program increases individual protective factors in the majority of participating children: self-awareness and self-respect, emotional understanding of self and others, social competence and constructive peer relationships, self-control, empathy and kindness toward others, problem solving and anger management skills, respect for individual differences, healthy living choices, perseverance and resiliency, refusal skills, personal safety and character traits such as honesty and responsibility.

SLHS Mural Project in Sight

Posted 3/1/2024 at 11:07:28 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local High School will be getting a bit more colorful as plans get underway to add a new mural in the building.

Art teacher Laurie Ronshak said her students have been raising money to finance the project, which will be done by local muralist Sara Gordon. Gordon, of Rogers, has been meeting with the group to discuss design ideas and work should begin later this spring.

“We are talking designs and it’s just the beginning of the process to start the mural in the hallway,” Ronshak said. “The students wanted the hallway to be brightened. We wanted it to be colorful with the design.”

Fundraising efforts began last year and have included T-shirt, candy and flower bulb sales and craft night events, and the moneymakers have raised around $7,000 to pay for the project. Students shared ideas and sketches with Gordon, who was planning to return with a draft of the concept.

The rendering will extend outside the art room and include art materials such as paintbrushes, plus it will denote line, shape, color and textures. Ronshak said students will also have a hand in painting the mural.

“I’d like to kick it off with the Art Club members maybe helping to draw the mural on the walls and students will help paint it,” she commented.

Select students from each art class will share their time and talent and assist Gordon with creating the artwork, and they can take pride in beautifying the building and leaving their mark for future generations to see.

Ronshak said the design will go before the Southern Local Board of Education for approval at an upcoming meeting. Hopes are to begin the mural in May and complete work in June.

(Photo Caption: Local muralist Sara Gordon, seated at right center with art teacher Laurie Ronshak, meets with art students at Southern Local High School to discuss design ideas for a new mural project. Students raised $7,000 to create a colorful rendering outside the art room through sales and craft events and hope to have the work completed in June.)

SLJHS Sprouts Hydroponics Project

Posted 2/20/2024 at 11:28:50 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local Jr. High School students are growing more knowledgeable about soilless planting through a new hydroponics project.

Seventh-graders in Amanda Wrobleski’s science class are cultivating butterhead lettuce in a newly acquired system in the classroom. Wrobleski funded the project with a $660 Best Practice Grant from the Jefferson County Educational Service Center as well as some assistance from the school district. She said she chose the project because it can be completed year-round in a soilless system, unlike traditional planting which usually occurs outdoors. Her own personal interest in gardening sprouted the idea and she jumped at the opportunity when it became available this fall.

“I wondered how to extend the growing season and decided on hydroponics,” she explained.

The equipment, which was provided by Crop King of Lodi, Ohio, arrived during the holiday break and efforts began in January to grow the seeds.

The seeds were planted in rockwool cubes made from heated basalt rock and placed in the hydroponics system, which then feeds distilled water and liquid nutrients including hydroponic fertilizer and calcium nitrate. Students separated the rockwool and began growing the plants in rows. A total of 36 butterhead lettuce plants have taken root and the pupils are keeping close tabs on the germination process. Wrobleski continued that it was a new and exciting way to learn.

“We plan on harvesting the lettuce and enjoying it with a celebration of the harvest in about two months,” she added. “Each student planted a seed and we’re really excited.”

Her 42 students are also responsible for testing the pH level of the water and adjusting it accordingly so the plants flourish, plus they must replace and clean the 30-gallon reservoir at the base of the tank every two to three weeks.

“Every day they see a little more progress. It gives them a reason to have fun and a little excitement,” Wrobleski said. “I’m also learning along with the students. It’s new and the kids are having fun with it.”

(Photo Caption: Seventh-graders at Southern Local Jr. High are learning about hydroponics by growing butterhead lettuce in a recently acquired system. Pictured are students, from left, Nathan Hawkins, Bryton Beadle, April Beadnell, Katie Kellogg, Addysin Andrenok and Elaina Forbes looking on at the new sprouts.)

Southern Earns Grant Funds to Aid At-Risk Students

Posted 2/16/2024 at 3:40:01 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-The Southern Local School District has obtained $20,000 to help at-risk students bolster their learning skills.

During the Feb. 13 regular school board session, officials announced that Southern Local Elementary and Southern Local Jr./Sr. High Schools each gained $10,000 allocations from the Acellus online program to focus on students in grades K-12 in need of intervention.

SLES Principal Emily Brinker said she and Assistant Principal Jordan Wrask will work with teachers in their building to decide who can benefit from the program.

“We received a $10,000 grant for intervention through this online instructional program and we will add 12 students once we discuss more with staff,” Brinker said. “It’s online and geared toward an intervention instructional plan.”

She and Wrask took part in a zoom meeting to learn more about it and said they will speak with teachers about which students would qualify. Wrask said it is based on an algorithm and elementary students will work on core subjects, but plans are still in their infancy.

“Each of the kids take an assessment and it’s geared toward their level of learning,” he added.

“We hope to implement it soon and will work to identify the kids,” Brinker continued. “Once we do that, we can [start the program] as quickly as possible.”

Brinker hoped to begin by the end of this month.

Superintendent Tom Cunningham said the junior-senior high school earned the same amount to assist some of its students so they can thrive.

“We received a $10,000 grant for the elementary school and the high school also received it to help grades 7-12,” he added. “Hopefully it goes well. It is computer-based and students need intervention at certain levels. They will be assigned work to do at their own pace.”

In other grant news, Cunningham said the Jefferson County Educational Service Center obtained a driver’s education grant which would place an instructor and also a potential vehicle at SLHS. He added that the Columbiana County ESC was also seeking grant funds help students cover driver’s ed costs.

Among other matters:

--Southern Local Teachers Association President Ryan Smith thanked the board for contributing an extra $200 to the employees’ health savings accounts to assist with rising insurance costs;

--The board approved two-year calendars for 2024-25 and 2025-26. Cunningham explained officials worked with the SLTA and OAPSE members to finalize the calendars and it also assisted the Ohio Department of Transportation so projects would not impact school terms;

--Brinker said four fifth-graders participated in the district spelling bee on Feb. 7 including Brooke Akers, Brooklyn Glosser, Patricia Smith and Sophia Pierson. She added that her building was also implementing new Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) rewards by connecting the school building with transportation. Students who show positive character traits receive pom-pom balls to fill their classroom jars and earn a reward. Other SLES news included an Easter candy sale which produced a $4,000 profit increase for classroom activities, rewards and field trips; another visit from educational consultant Carri Meek to discuss strategies targeting issues that impact student learning; and a Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser to benefit the American Heart Association. A $2,500 goal has been set and if met, students will enjoy a picnic this spring while officials will dress as characters from the movie “Monsters, Inc.”;

--SLHS Principal Rich Wright said junior high science teacher Amanda Wrobleski obtained a grant through King Arthur Baking Co. for a springtime project. Each student will receive flour and other supplies to bake a loaf of bread that will be given to someone as a gesture of kindness. He added that Wrobleski’s hydroponics program is also successfully growing lettuce and should be ready in a few months. Other high school news included an upcoming PBIS event, SAT testing on Feb. 27 and students with entries in the Columbiana County Art Show on Feb. 27;

--The board also approved a series of personnel matters, including the resignation of Kyler Woodward as a paraprofessional; the hiring of substitutes Natasha Grim as teacher and secretary, Melissa Dugan as cafeteria, secretary, paraprofessional and teacher, Ernanie Black and Patty Bailey as cafeteria and custodians and Jennifer Timms as teacher; a one-year contract for Carla Phenicie as a three-hour cafeteria worker; the hiring of Brent Boyle as a softball coach for the 2023-24 school year; and the approval of Jan Palmer as a three-hour student monitor;

--Cunningham said he reached out to the county Veterans Service Office to do signup days for seniors planning to enlist in the military while social media personality Jordan Toma was speaking at SLHS on March 21;

--Athletic Director Bob Shansky said there was a move to create seven divisions in each sport next year, which may put volleyball in Division VI;

--Leaders approved a $1,634 contribution to the Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding;

--The next regular meeting was set for March 12 at 5:30 p.m. in the SLHS Media Center.

Southern Local Kindergarteners Learn Kindness

Posted 2/9/2024 at 10:27:32 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-The Family Recovery Center put the “kind” in kindergarten as the Aiming High program kicked off for February.

Lauren DeMarco, prevention educator for grades K-2 at the Lisbon-based organization, is making weekly visits to the classrooms to speak to students on social-emotional topics including bullying and self-esteem. She stopped by Feb. 9 to address kindness and read the book, “How Full is Your Bucket?”

The book centers on a little boy who learns that each person has an invisible bucket that carries their feelings, and the happier they are the fuller the bucket. He then realizes that being nice to others his own bucket is filled. DeMarco also completed a project with the class in which they identified illustrations of people being kind and unkind, such as sharing or arguing. She explained to the children that while their teacher educates them on reading, writing and math, her job was to discuss social-emotional issues.

“I will be back for three more lessons,” she said. “We also talk about communication, self-esteem and emotions.”

DeMarco shares lessons at elementary schools throughout Columbiana County and said she and colleague Ashley McLaughlin have also spoken to grades 1-4 at Southern during the fall.

“Each grade gets a specific lesson in social-emotional skills. There are four 30-minute sessions,” she added. “It’s really tailored to the grades and we usually have a book [in kindergarten] that correlates with the subject.”

The Aiming High program is funded by the Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. It has been held at area schools, including Southern, for more than two decades.

(Photo Caption: Lauren DeMarco, prevention educator for the Family Recovery Center of Lisbon, is meeting with kindergarteners at Southern Local Elementary to discuss social-emotional topics such as self-esteem and emotions. She is pictured here reading to students about the importance of being kind as little Ava Smith looks on.)

Contracts Approved at Southern

Posted 11/17/2023 at 2:33:02 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Contracts were approved for staff and administrators during the Southern Local school board meeting on Nov. 14.

Officials agreed to extend five-year pacts for district Treasurer Greg Sabbato, EMIS Coordinator Whitney Tsesmilles and administrative secretary Tammy Phillips while Southern Local Elementary Principal Emily Brinker’s agreement was amended to reflect pay levels across Columbiana County school districts.

Board President Kip Dowling praised Sabbato for his work over the last decade, which included operating within a staff wage freeze over the last few years.

“Greg does a phenomenal job for the school district,” Dowling said. “It’s been three years since he’s had an increase.”

“Greg has done a fantastic job with the district’s finances and I appreciate our working relationship and collaboration,” added Superintendent Tom Cunningham. “He’s very deserving of a five-year contract.”

Sabbato has been part of Southern Local for a total of 13 years, with about four spent as a substitute teacher then faculty member prior to holding his current post. Meanwhile, Cunningham recognized Tsesmilles and Phillips, who have respectively served the district for eight and 26 years, for their dedication to the schools.

“Whitney and Tammy both have been great employees for a number of years and it’s nice to award their contracts for their hard work in the district.”

Sabbato also noted Tsesmilles’ assistance with the EMIS program, saying it has effectively brought funding to the district for operations and educational programming.

Regarding Brinker’s amended deal, officials said the move simply brought her salary in line with other administrators throughout the county.

In other personnel matters, the board approved substitute teachers Abigail Cline, Steven Treadway, Ryan Koontz and Amanda Vernon, nurse Rebecca Frischkorn, paraprofessional Natasha Grim and cafeteria worker/secretary Meeghin Sloan for the 2023-24 school year; rescinded Athletic Director Bob Shansky’s previously approved contract for a technicality because the new union agreement did not include the post, but there is no change to the job; approved a one-year contract for Tiffani McAfee as a three-hour elementary cafeteria worker; approved staffing agreements for E-Rate Coordinator Marjorie Hiller, technology representative Bobby Westover and certified health workers Paige Compton and Jayce Sloan at the Utica Shale Academy; named Aiden and Brian Spahlinger assistant varsity football coaches for the 2023-24 school year; gave supplemental contracts to Greg Sabbato and Julie Dowling for MCTA services and an amended contract for Tammy Phillips, all for USA; awarded a supplemental contract for Julie Dowling for inputting requisitions for the current school year; and approved a stipend for SLHS Guidance Counselor Kenadee Pezzano for work while counselor Alannah Smith is on leave.

Leaders also approved the pending retirement of longtime SLES Guidance Counselor Larry Rudloff at the end of the school year after 49 years of service, saying he has been highly respected and will be greatly missed. Officials also accepted the resignation of paraprofessional Sharon Skeens effective Oct. 23.

In other matters:

--Highlandtown Fire Chief Jeremiah Cole informed the board of the need for some updated permits and procedures in light of a recent boiler system installation, namely a new carbon dioxide detector. Cole said he approved a temporary plug until a permanent one was installed and also discussed shutoffs and lockdown devices around the campus. He also mentioned options for the empty fuel tank onsite, including removal or being cleaned, filled with sand or related substances, but the state fire marshal would need contacted in either case.

--Agreements were approved with K Company and Greiner for ongoing services with technical support and maintenance of HVAC and water treatment, respectively.

--Brinker told the board the recent Special Person’s Breakfast event was successful and more are planned for the spring, while upcoming events include a Santa’s Workshop the week of Dec. 4 and the annual Christmas Parade on Dec. 8 from 5-7 p.m.

--SLHS Principal Rich Wright announced juniors were taking the ASVAB test and Eastern Gateway Community College and Kent State University would hold College Credit Plus registration events. He added that the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports award was a trip to the Tri-State Bowling Alley on Nov. 30 and state testing would start Dec. 15. Wright added that character-building programs such as Anti-Virus and Aiming High were also set in the schools with sessions through the spring.

--Ron Sismondo, director of curriculum and professional development at the Jefferson County Educational Service Center, presented three $660 Best Practice Grants to SLES teacher Katie Forbes and SLHS educators Amanda Wrobleski and Lori Biser for their innovative programs.

--The next regular session was set for Dec. 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the SLHS Media Center.

Southern Local Teachers Awarded Grants

Posted 11/15/2023 at 1:59:51 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-The Jefferson County Educational Service Center presented three teachers in the Southern Local School District with 2023 Best Practice Grants to expound upon learning in their classrooms.

Ron Sismondo, JCESC director of curriculum and professional development, awarded Southern Local Jr./Sr. High School teachers Lori Biser and Amanda Wrobleski and Southern Local Elementary teacher Katie Forbes $660 each for their ideas to enhance education during the Southern Local Board of Education meeting on Nov. 14.

Biser’s 35 math students will benefit from her project, “Problem-Based Learning for Algebra 2,” which implements a problem-based curriculum from Math Media in her classes. She said learning method and activities will promote the development of students’ critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities and communication skills that are imperative to 21^st Century education.

“Their problem-based curriculum utilizes the ‘experience first, formalize later’ approach. Additionally, I plan to incorporate hands-on activities from All Things Algebra as student practice of the mathematical content being taught,” she added, saying this was her first Best Practice Grant award. “I am excited to have been selected to receive this grant and to try something new in my classroom.”

Wrobleski’s project, “Hydroponics Gardening,” will benefit between 40-155 science students by helping them understand the growing process. She said her seventh-grade pupils will establish a hydroponic gardening system in the classroom to also encourage sustainability and biodiversity. Activities will include germinating seeds, creating the hydroponic system and experiencing the growth of edible plants.

“The hydroponics system will benefit my seventh-grade science students,” she said, adding this also was her first grant from the JCESC. “When I found out that I received the Best Practice Grant, I was both ecstatic and grateful. My goal with the hydroponic system is to ignite learning and curiosity in this alternative planting method.”

Forbes will implement “Early Literacy Intervention” to aid 130 Language Arts students at SLES. Her goal is to utilize the early literacy intervention space in the kindergarten and first-grade Title/intervention classrooms and provide multiple learning modalities of phonics and phonemic awareness activities and interventions for students.

“These interventions will be utilized and offered to students who qualify for Tier II and Tier III interventions based on students' benchmark, screening and/or progress monitoring data analyzed throughout the school year,” she continued. “Any student who may require extra support throughout the school year and future years will benefit from the project.”

She added that she was pleased to receive the grant—her first-- to provide extra support for her pupils and looks forward to utilizing the interventions so students will reach expected growth in reading and literacy and better meet their learning needs.

JCESC Superintendent Dr. Chuck Kokiko congratulated the recipients on their awards and said the projects reflect new and exciting ways to bolster students’ education.

“Our schools have many great teachers with innovative lesson plans and instructional strategies, and we at JCESC are happy to be able to fund many of those ideas so they may become reality for the students in the classroom,” Dr. Kokiko said.

JCESC has disbursed more than two-dozen Best Practice Grants this year with other recipients at Buckeye Local, Edison Local, Harrison Hills City, Indian Creek Local, Steubenville City and Toronto City School Districts and the Utica Shale Academy.

(Photo Caption: The Jefferson County Educational Service Center awarded three $660 Best Practice Grants during the regular Southern Local Board of Education meeting on Nov. 14 to expound upon student learning. Pictured are, from left, Southern Local Elementary teacher Katie Forbes, JCESC Director of Curriculum and Professional Development Ron Sismondo and Southern Local Jr./Sr. High School teacher Amanda Wrobleski while SLHS teacher Lori Biser is absent from the photo.)

SLES Students are Aiming High

Posted 10/6/2023 at 2:12:04 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-First-graders learned the importance of self-esteem as the Aiming High program began another year at Southern Local Elementary.

Representatives with the Family Recovery Center’s Education Department visited classrooms on Oct. 5 for the first of four 30-minute sessions and will appear each week to discuss a variety of social-emotional topics. Prevention educators Ashley McLaughlin and Lauren DeMarco led a reading activity on self-esteem with the book, “What I Like about Me,” and encouraged the children to embrace the differences in themselves and others. Students then drew self-portraits highlighting features they liked about themselves both inside and out, including their hair, eyes or even a big heart to show their kindness.

McLaughlin said the program uses age-appropriate lessons to reach children at a younger age and deter the likelihood of substance abuse in the future.

“We go to schools for drug intervention, but for younger grades we focus on social-emotional issues. It’s really important to know coping skills because in some cases it can turn into drug abuse.”

Kids will also touch on other life skills such anti-bullying, making good choices, building friendships, understanding feelings and communication skills. Aiming High utilizes “Botvin Lifeskills” and “Too Good for Drugs and Violence” curricula that have been recognized by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), among other organizations. The developmentally appropriate lessons incorporate real-world challenges youth face today and the goal is to develop social and emotional competency; promote character education; address bullying; promote a peaceful environment; provide positive interaction between peers; teach resistance to peer and social media influences; and encourage youth to make healthy choices. Meanwhile, programs may likely inspire a reduced intention among students to use alcohol, drugs and other substances, fewer instances of violence and an increased likelihood of student success both socially and academically.

SLES Guidance Counselor Larry Rudloff said the center, which has locations in Lisbon and Steubenville, has provided Aiming High programs for more than two decades and the lessons benefit kids as they learn and grow.

“It’s a very good program and the teachers believe it has merit,” Rudloff commented. “They think it’s good for the kids.”

More programs will be held through February for grades K-5 and topics include identifying emotions, kindness and empathy, conflict resolution, peer pressure, decision making, building self-confidence, introduction to medicine and risky behaviors while the Family Recovery Center also offers sessions for junior and senior high school levels. Aiming High is funded by the Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. For more information, contact Denise Kuhlman at (330) 424-0531, Ext. 146, or email [email protected].

(Photo Caption: Ashley McLaughlin and Lauren DeMarco, prevention educators with the Family Recovery Center in Lisbon, led a lesson on self-esteem with first-graders at Southern Local Elementary on Oct. 5. Four sessions will be held throughout the month highlighting social-emotional issues and officials will continue programs through February in grades K-5. McLaughlin is pictured reflecting upon student Jack Stower during a reading activity as classmate Cali Britton looks on.)

Haugh Continuing as School Security Officer

Posted 9/26/2023 at 10:36:22 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local School Resource Officer Deputy Jeff Haugh is continuing his work in the district, but this time he will have a different title.

“It will be Officer Haugh now, not Deputy Haugh,” he said.

Haugh recently received a three-year contract from the Southern Local School District and will assume the role as school security officer on Oct. 1, then officially step down as a deputy at the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office nearly a week later on Oct. 6. He had served the county for a total of 33 years, including 18 years as a detective sergeant, plus he was one of two local hostage negotiators and was part of a joint task force to investigate major crimes. Haugh retired from those duties in 2020 but remained in the patrol division before being assigned as SRO at Southern. He has patrolled the school halls for more than two years and led programs in classrooms such as the Kelly Bear character-building initiative for elementary students, while he brought the CCSO K-9 officer to visit pupils and has been actively involved in boosting campus security measures. During that time, he still performed duties for the sheriff’s office and will soon be commissioned as a deputy officer to lend a hand when needed.

“I’ve been with the county since 1990,” he said. “I retired three years ago and worked in patrol service, then joined Southern Local. This starts my third school year and second full year.”

An SRO is a legal term designated for a law enforcement officer who is assigned to a school district through a memorandum of understanding, but an SSO is fully employed through the school district. He has relished his time in the schools and is looking forward to another three years at Southern.

“I’ve enjoyed it immensely,” he commented. “I enjoy working with the kids and have made a difference in some of their lives. I even got a few interested in going into law enforcement and talked one into staying on the right path. If you can make a difference in one person’s life and keep them from going to the dark side, that’s important.”

Haugh has also appreciated the cooperation of teachers and officials in easing his transition.

“The teachers, staff, school board and [superintendent] Tom Cunningham have been very supportive of me,” he added.

When not in the schools, he will spend time maintaining his new home in Yellow Creek Township and enjoying his family, which includes three children and six grandchildren.

Meanwhile, Superintendent Tom Cunningham said Haugh has proven himself to be an important part of the district.

“Based on his hard work and dedication and his presence in the district, we know he’s been an asset and look forward to continue working with him,” Cunningham concluded.

(Photo Caption: Southern Local School Resource Officer Deputy Jeff Haugh will now be known as Officer Haugh when he assumes the role of school security officer on Oct. 1. Haugh will formally step down as a deputy for the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office after 33 years but will be commissioned as a special deputy to assist if needed. As SSO, he will be fully employed by the school district.)

Aiming High Presentations Set

Posted 9/20/2023 at 2:13:20 PM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Presentations of the Family Recovery Center’s annual Aiming High program will be kicking off once again at Southern Local Elementary School.

SLES Guidance Counselor Larry Rudloff said the program, which centers on life and character lessons, will return Oct. 5 and run into the new year. Weekly sessions will be led by the Lisbon-based center’s educational specialists Lauren DeMarco and Ashley McLaughlin, who will speak to grades K-4, and Denise Kuhlman, who will address fifth-graders.

DeMarco and McLaughlin will begin by speaking to first-grade classes each Thursday from Oct. 5-26.

“The program will consist of four 30-minute presentations in each classroom,” Rudloff added. “The focus of the program will be on life skills such as making healthy choices, building friendships, understanding feelings and communication skills.”

They will then visit third-graders on Wednesdays from Nov. 1-29 to discuss conflict resolution, peer pressure, making healthy choices and the importance of clear communication and address fourth-graders on Tuesdays from Nov. 7-Dec. 5 on aspects of decision making, problem solving, respecting differences and the correct use of medicine.

Sessions continue at the start of 2024 with DeMarco and McLaughlin meeting second-graders on Wednesdays from Jan. 3-24 to discuss decisions and consequences, building self-confidence, risky behaviors and introduction to medicine, while Kuhlman will visit fifth-graders each Tuesday from Jan. 4-25 to talk about assertiveness, peer pressure, responsibility, communication and respect for oneself and others. DeMarco and McLaughlin will wrap up the program with kindergarteners on Thursdays from Feb. 1-22 to discuss making good decisions, character building and knowing how to be a good person or citizen.

Rudloff said the Family Recovery Center has presented the program at SLES for more than two decades. In the event of a two-hour delay or school cancelation, the speakers will extend the schedule to complete their presentations.

Southern Bash a Success

Posted 8/22/2023 at 10:16:45 AM by Kristina Ash [staff member]

SALINEVILLE-Southern Local Schools’ 2023 Back-to-School Bash was another big hit, drawing students, parents and community members in the leadup to the first day of classes.