STEUBENVILLE-Students at Pugliese West Elementary will put their reading skills to the test during Battle of the Books on April 10.

   School SFA Instructional coach Krystal Yourkovich, who is organizing the event, said 42 third- and fourth-graders will participate in a series of contests at Steubenville High School from 5-8 p.m. Activities will be held in the commons area and gym with trivia-type competitions to win prizes.

   “All Pugliese West families are welcome to come to the commons and view projects that students have completed that go along with the novels we have read and speak to some of our literacy community partnerships such as the Schiappa Library, Sycamore Center and JB Green Team,” Yourkovich said, adding that those activities will occur from 5-6 p.m. “There will be a concession stand selling pizza, hot dogs, candy, chips and water. From 6-8 p.m., the teams will battle in the gym with three rounds of questions and 15 questions per round about the five books we’ve read.”

   Nine teams will be competing and each participant will receive a medal and certificate while the winning team also gains trophies and gift cards.

     Battle of the Books is in its first year at the school and is based on a similar event at a school in Montour, Pa.. A team of school educators, including Principal Lynnett Gorman, reviewed a list of suggested stories online and then choose titles they believed would interest the students. Among the selected stories are “Shiloh,” by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor; “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” and “The Tiger Rising,” both by Kate DiCamillo; “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe,” by C.S. Lewis;  and “The Toothpaste Millionaire,” by Jean Merrill.

   Parent volunteers have meet with the teams to prepare and one team will be named champion.    

   “The teams have been meeting weekly or bi-weekly since the second week in January,” Yourkovich added. “The purpose is to promote teamwork, build relationships among students and families, as well as introduce students to novels they have never read and develop a stronger love for reading.”

 

     She said it has also enhanced literacy and comprehension skills among students and she hopes to see Battle of the Books become an annual event with even more teams participating.

 

    “The students and coaches have worked so hard to prepare for this battle.  I hope that the students from Pugliese West and their families will join us on the night of the event to show their support and cheer them on.”

STEUBENVILLE- The Steubenville City School District and three of its buildings have achieved Overall 5-Star ratings for their performance from state education officials.

  The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce recently recognized exceptional performances in Ohio’s districts and buildings on 2022-2023 Report Card, and the Steubenville City School District is one of 75 districts across the state to be recognized as an Overall  5-Star District. Additionally, Harding Middle School, Pugliese West Elementary and Wells Academy achieved an Overall 5-Star rating and were among 362 school buildings across the state to earn the distinction.

   The district’s honor was based on exceeding standards by earning an overall five stars on the traditional report card for their performance across five rated components, including achievement, progress, gap closing, early literacy and graduation. The buildings were awarded for exceeding state standards by earning an overall five stars for components such as achievement, progress, gap closing, early literacy, graduation and college, career, workforce and military readiness.

   ODEW Director Stephen Dackin congratulated school officials in a formal letter, stating the remarkable accomplishment reflected an unwavering commitment to excellence and the outstanding services provided to the students and community. 

   “It is a testament to your dedication, hard work and the quality of education you provide to your students,” Dackin continued. “It recognizes the devoted teachers and staff who consistently go above and beyond, ensuring that all students receive exceptional learning and instruction. Your tireless efforts in nurturing young minds, fostering a positive learning environment and promoting holistic development has not gone unnoticed. Your impact extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.”

   He lauded  teachers, administrators, support staff and students for their contributions and added that the distinction would serve as a source of motivation to inspire, innovate and make a difference in the lives of the students.

   “Your dedication to excellence sets a shining example for educational institutions everywhere,” Dackin concluded.

   Superintendent Melinda Young was pleased with the honor.

   “The 5-Star rating is the result of the dedication of our students, staff and parents,” Young said.

   Harding Middle School Principal Bryan Mills said it was a concerted effort and was thankful to everyone involved.

    “It’s an exciting honor and a reflection of the hard work of the teachers and the students who are willing to come to school and work hard,” he said. “The community is very supportive and the school board and Mrs. Young provide us with whatever we need. It’s a reflection of the distributive leadership from the assistant principals to the custodians.”

     About 780 fifth-through-eighth-graders attend HMS and Mills said the goal has been to ensure students succeed and learn.

     “It’s the result of the intervention team to close gaps and accelerate student achievement. We’re using intervention to level the playing field.”

    Pugliese West Principal Lynnett Gorman was equally thrilled to have her school receive the honor, saying everyone was dedicated to ensuring the 480 students in grades PreK-4 have the best learning opportunities available.

   “We are very excited and honored to receive the recognition,” she said. “Our teachers work very hard to create an educational environment that engages all students. I feel our students, our staff, our teachers and our West families deserve this recognition. To be part of a district such as ours that takes pride in the students’ educational success is an honor.”

    Wells Academy Principal Tommy Kotsanis echoed those sentiments, saying his school’s 340 pupils in grades PreK-4 received the best education possible to thrive.

   “Consistency and structure build an outstanding program for academic success at Wells Academy,” he said.

STEUBENVILLE-Students at East Garfield Elementary are embracing art throughout history and bringing them to life.

   Pupils in grades K-4 have been studying the stylings of various artists and created their own pieces in teacher Marla Phillips’ art classes. Many recognized creative minds in honor of  Black History Month and showcased shapes and textures in a unique light. Phillips has done the projects for the past five years and said they have become quite popular.

   “I think Black History Month is very important and these are Black Americans who have done important things and don’t always get recognized,” she said.

   Kindergarteners made geometric and organic shapes in the style of master colorist Reggie Laurent while first-graders have created mosaics similar to Alma Thomas, the first African-American woman to study art at Howard Universtiy. 

  “These projects vary depending on the student’s grade level,” Phillips said. “I included [the geometrical project] because I teach art and one of the elements is shape. [Laurent] uses organic and geometric shapes and the kids traced shapes and also created their own.”

   Second-graders formed African personality masks and third-graders held an art contest for literacy night featuring free drawings and colorful renderings layered with crayon to depict texture. Fourth-graders literally put themselves into paintings with recreations of many famous works.

   She noted that those students learned about notable 20^th Century African-American artist Kehinde Wiley, who is best known for his colorful portrait of President Barack Obama, and posed as figures in famous portraits from the past. Among them were Johannes Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” to Leonardo da Vinci’s “Lady with an Ermine.” Phillips said the Wiley projects have become popular and students use their imagination in their artwork.

   “I tend to use the same ones and everyone creates art differently.  They are different every single year.”

    Phillips made a “Look What I Can Do” display on one wall of the school displaying the famous artists and using Wiley’s method of staging past portraits with vibrant colors and flowers in the background. Students put themselves in Belgian surrealist Rene Magritte’s “The Son of Man,” Sergey Malyutin’s “Portrait of Dmitry Furmanov” and more.

 

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School Assistant Principal Aaron Newman is getting a first-hand look at military life as he attends the U.S. Navy’s Educator Orientation Visit (EOV) this coming week.

   Newman will head to Jacksonville, Fla., on March 4-6 with six other Ohio educators to tour in-port Navy commands and installations as part of the recruiting command program and learn all about being in the Armed Forces. Participants may include state and local school officials and centers of influence (COIs), such as superintendents, school board presidents, administrators, teachers, counselors, university presidents, professors, college placement officials, coaches, career specialists, youth group leaders and others on a case-by-case basis who have a direct association with the student and workforce markets, plus they have an important role in helping recruiters build relationships with their communities, schools and students.

   The visit gives civilians a close-up look at what the Navy has to offer and they learn what educational opportunities are available. Participants get a chance to tour a naval squadron, ship, submarine and other naval training facilities and witness the daily life of a sailor, listen to their stories and view the pride and professionalism of those serving our country. In return, educators share that insight with students so they can make educated choices about their future and know how the military could benefit them.

    U.S. Navy Education Specialist Dawn Batross said the group will visit Naval Air Stations in Jacksonville and Mayport, view ships, the search-and-rescue school and working dogs, watch an enlistment ceremony and take part in flight and ship simulations.

   “The purpose is to take educators that may not have as much knowledge about the Navy and help them learn so they may share information with their peers and students,” Batross said, adding that a total of 16 educators generally attend over two trips each year. “Everyone we’ve taken has thoroughly enjoyed it and took back information they’ve never had before. It gives civilians an eye into what it’s like to be a sailor on a day-to-day basis and they get to see a lot of sailors who are young--kids who are similar to their kids’ age-- in action.”

   Newman was invited by regional Navy recruiter Chief Stephen Jackson and selected by commanding officers but said few participants are chosen. He  was approved last month and said he was excited to go, especially since he has always been a strong proponent of the military and has actively encouraged SHS students to join.

    “From the outset of my time here, I’ve wanted to strengthen our relationship with the U.S. Armed Forces,” he commented. “I believe more young people should consider the options provided by the Armed Forces, everything from the National Guard to the Navy and all branches in between.”

   Today’s Navy is comprised of more than 332,000 members, including enlisted personnel, officers to reservists, Navy Department civilians officers and active duty personnel in over 150 career specialties. Newman said the benefits of enlisting in the military are plentiful, from paid schooling and lifetime insurance to job security and educational opportunities for servicepeople’s children through the G.I. Bill.

   “Whether you enlist or apply for R.O.T.C., there are significant advantages to utilizing the programs offered through the various branches. You come out of school without the incredible debt many people are saddled with,” he continued.

     Newman has worked with area recruiters for the past five years, inviting them into the school to speak in classrooms and having them set up tables and meet with students in the commons. He said there has been a definite uptick in student enlistments during that timeframe, estimating a 10-to-20-percent hike. Newman was most proud of recent recruits over the past few years, including one alumni who was selected for the U.S. Naval Academy and another who enlisted and is part of the U.S. Navy Nuclear Program.

   He was grateful to Principal Ted Gorman and Steubenville City Schools Superintendent Melinda Young for their support as he attended the EOV. Newman hoped to get acquainted with programs, learn about the career paths and be part of something many civilians never get a chance to experience.

   In a way, Newman believes he is coming full circle. He said he was selected for the U.S. Naval Academy 30 years ago but opted to attend college, yet his interest in the Armed Forces has continued to run deep.

    “I’m ready to see the work of these patriots in action,” he concluded. “In my mind, I’m enlisting for the duration of my time there. I’m going to soak up the information with this experience and have the tangible benefits to share with our students for many years to come.”

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School drew students, staff and community members for the triannual blood drive on Feb. 13.

   Donors showed their heart during the Valentine’s week by giving blood for the latest campaign, which was a collaboration between the SHS Nike Club and American Red Cross. Club members operated the registration and snack tables while Red Cross medical staff collected the precious life-saving liquid to benefit area hospitals. 

  Teacher Jessica Cheslar oversaw the student group and said 41 people registered for the final program of the year.

  “Everything went really great,” Cheslar said. “We had an awesome turnout. We had [Nike members] do check-ins, snacks and check on the donors, plus they do setup and cleanup.”

   The Nike Club hoped to collect 30 units of blood, which would be in addition to the 57 units it obtained at earlier events this past year. It would put the group above the 75-unit minimum for two scholarships which will be given to seniors who donated at all three of the blood drives this year. More importantly, it would also assist in meeting a demand in the nation’s blood supply which has seen donations plummet since COVID.

   Students and area residents were either first-time or repeat contributors and agreed it was an important cause.

   Nike Club member Serenity Casco, a senior at SHS, did not participate this time but has donated twice in the past. She was inspired by advisor Katrina Morrow and wanted to help others.

   “Miss Morrow said it would be good and I’ve given blood before,” Casco added.

   Sophomore Grace Jordan rolled up her sleeve for the campaign and said it was a new experience.

   “This is my first time,” Jordan said. “A few people in my class talked about it and I thought I’d do it. I like the feeling of helping other people.”

   Senior Josh Hillman is a repeat donor and said it runs in the family.

   “I’ve donated twice this year. My parents do it and I like helping others,” he said. “I would recommend that other students do it to help the community.”

   Senior Madison Hickey said she has donated a half-dozen times through the years.

  “It’s a good thing to do to help people,” she commented.

   Area residents who gave of themselves included Teresa Schaefer, who travelled across the river from Follansbee.

   “This is my second time [donating in the valley]. I have rare blood—O Negative—and it helps anybody.”

   Schafer said she has also contributed in Pittsburgh in honor of her father, who was a firefighter.

STEUBENVILLE-McKinley STEM Academy will open its doors to students and their families for an evening of fun activities during literacy night on Feb. 29.

   Events will take place from 4-6 p.m. and surrounds the school’s One School, One Book selection, “Hidden Figures: The Untold Story of the Black Women Who Helped Win the Space Race,” by Margot Lee Shetterly. The biographical book details the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three mathematicians who worked at NACA and NASA during the space race and how they overcame discrimination as women and African Americans. Also featured is Christine Darden, who was the first African-American woman promoted to the senior executive service for her work in researching supersonic flight and sonic booms.

    McKinley STEM Academy kicked off its One School, One Book program on Feb. 12 and allows the entire school family to read, discuss, participate in and celebrate a particular text over an assigned period of time.  About 172 pupils participate in daily classroom activities to enhance the book and its ideas. Festivities include a daily trivia contest to earn prizes for correctly answering questions about the book while parents may also complete activities with their child at home. Students who complete the activities will also be entered into a drawing to win a daily “Read and Respond” prize. The theme will carry over into literacy night festivities.

   “Families will have the opportunity to construct and launch straw rockets, visit a student-constructed planetarium, enjoy a project walk and participate in a few other STEM activities,” said Heather Hoover, Success for All facilitator and gifted coordinator. “One thing that we are doing differently this year is that our fourth graders will host a live wax museum honoring a individual who has made a significant impact in society, either with a particular invention, discovery or social change.”

 

    She said literacy night has been a popular draw and expects it to be no different this time.

 

   “Throughout the years, we have had a few hundred people attend this event and plan to have about the same number this year,” she added, saying it was a way to bring families together to learn.

 

  “Holding a literary night is a way to promote and encourage reading. It is also a time to celebrate authors, stories and cultures from around the world.  When selecting our One School, One Book theme, we attempt to select a book that connects with our students.  Last year was the first time we had ever selected an expository text, ‘The Secret Garden of George Washington Carver’ by Gene Barretta, for this project. To our surprise, we had an overwhelming response from not only our parents, but our students as well.  We decided to stick with this theme again and selected ‘Hidden Figures.’ Typically, students are reluctant to select an expository text to read, but when it is presented in a manner that builds each student’s anticipation, it  engages them in exciting activities that allow them to discover a love for these types of stories.”

    In addition, Hoover said literacy night was being held on Leap Day and students will also explore the science of leap year.  At 1:30 p.m. that afternoon, the school will transport former students from Harding Middle School to McKinley STEM and open a Leap Year time capsule that was created four years ago. They may also revisit their former classrooms and participate in activities with present McKinley pupils.

STEUBENVILLE-Third graders at Wells Academy will showcase famous figures during the third-annual African American History Wax Museum on Feb. 15.

   Activities will be held in the school gym at 11:30 a.m. with about 60 students donning garb and depicting influential leaders, athletes, entertainers and more. Teachers Alexis Mahoney and Michelle Timmons are organizing the event as a way to share information about those who made a difference and to honor African American History Month.

  “The purpose of the African American Wax Museum is to celebrate African American History Month in a way that is immersive for students to have fun while studying the accomplishments of famous African Americans. It's fun, super cute, and exciting. We look forward to it each year.”

    Students research influential people and dress as that character while also providing information about them, and a few of this year’s featured figures are U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, abolitionist and social activist Harriet Tubman, former First Lady Michelle Obama and baseball player Jackie Robinson. Students from other grades travel around the gym to learn about the historic people while interesting details will be displayed on tri-fold boards. Mahoney and Timmons created the wax museum as a unique way for their students to complete their research projects and said the previous events have been successful.

   “It's our third year and it's going to be bigger and better than ever,” Mahoney said.  “Last year, the Wells Academy students and staff attended, as well as the school board and Superintendent Melinda Young.”

STEUBENVILLE-Tech-savvy students at Steubenville High School are putting their skills to use with the formation of a new robotics team.

   The Ohio Valley Robotics Team, or O.V.R.T., has formed at the high school and hopes to be among the competitors at the Buckeye Regionals at Cleveland State University this spring. It is the brainchild of junior Moira Roderique, the team captain, who said it was an opportunity for her peers to assemble original creations and enter area contests.

   “I learned there were no robotics teams around the Steubenville area and I had such joy partaking in the events while I was at my prior school, so I wanted to continue it here,” she said. “I started with mentioning it to people I knew to see if the idea was plausible. I put posters up downtown at first, but there was little engagement. I thought it would be smart to start at the school because I knew there had to be at least a few kids interested.”

 

   She approached Assistant Principal Aaron Newman about the prospect and planned to hold a meeting.  Officials began making announcements while Roderique’s friend created posters to publicize the venture throughout the school. Students registered and a session was held to qualify members underneath the FIRST Robotics Competition team requirements. For now, 15 pupils are involved but she hopes to expand that number.

 

   “I started the program because I loved the community that was involved with it. The FIRST Robotics Competition is extremely supportive, which makes it enjoyable to be a part of. I also learned so many life skills such as public speaking, outreach, critical thinking and problem solving and I want more kids to have the chance to experience it.”

 

   She participated for two years at her previous high school in Florida and the build session began on Jan. 6. The team has three months to construct a robot for the competition in late March. SHS teacher Ron Salvino serves as advisor while mother Monica Roderique is lead mentor with Kirsten Duggen currently a co-mentor. Meanwhile, she said the team is also open to students outside of Big Red.

 

   “The team is technically a community team. I am hoping to get kids from around the area to also partake, including homeschoolers.”

 

   Roderique, the daughter of Joseph and Monica Roderique of Steubenville, said her interest in technology has spurred her to consider a future career in the field.

 

  “ I was originally wanting to study psychology and look into the career in therapy. After joining FIRST,  I am now looking at careers in engineering science. “

 

   Meanwhile, O.V.R.T. meets every Tuesday and Friday at 2:30 p.m. in the Big Red drafting room but members can gather each day afterschool since the build season has begun.

 

  “I do not expect kids to come every day,” she said. “I would love to have new kids check out the team, as well as adults interested in being a mentor and helping out.”

 

   Donations are also being sought for admission to the competition. So far, the team has raised $6,000 and has a goal of $10,000.  For more information about participating as a team member, mentor or volunteer or to donate, email [email protected]. A link for donations is also available for contributions at https://hcb.hackclub.com/donations/start/ohio-valley-robotics-team.

    Hoover, who serves as a Success For All (SFA) facilitator and is based at McKinley STEM Academy, was among nominees from across the country. The award recognizes educators who demonstrate a strong record of delivering an inspiring and empowering student experience, expanding access to Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs and transforming teaching.

 

    “As part of Ms. Hoover’s Project Lead The Way Launch instruction, students at McKinley STEM Academy utilize the Activity, Project and Problem Based (APB) Learning model. [The] students examine past inventions and the works of previous innovators and explore their own thoughts and ideas on how they may be able to improve such inventions for the 21st Century and beyond,” the official press release stated. “Students are continuously engaged with peers, mentors and community leaders in collaborative settings which promotes opportunity for inquiry and multi-step learning experiences that inspire new thinking and behaviors towards social and global issues.”

   Hoover, who has taught for the past 14 years, oversees the reading and math curriculum and operates the greenhouse at the school. Additionally, she serves as district coordinator of the Odyssey of the Mind program and is an advisor of the district’s 4-H program. Hoover is professionally certified in elementary education for grades PreK-5 and holds endorsements in both reading and gifted education for grades K-12.

  “I learned in late May that I had been nominated for this recognition and that they were reviewing my portfolio.  It was in September that Director David Dimmett contacted me to let me know that I had been selected for this award,” she said. “After receiving their initial nominations, they begin the process of narrowing their list to the top 30 teachers from across the nation.”

 

   Dimmett and other representatives will visit the school early next year to tour the facilities and recognize the school’s efforts for implementing PLTW programs. Additionally, Hoover has been invited to attend the national conference next October and will be recognized as the 2023-2024 National Project Lead Launch Teacher. 

 

   “I am very honored to have been selected to receive this award and appreciate all of the support that I have received,” she added. “As an educator in Steubenville City Schools, we are always looking for ways to build upon our students' opportunities and the learning experiences. PLTW has allowed us to build a gateway within our district's curriculum as we implement these programs in our elementary buildings, exposing our youngest learners to the engineering design process and the career pathways found within. We currently offer PLTW Gateway to our middle school students and have continued to expand on these programs as we look to the future and our new STEM building at the high school.” 

   As a PLTW Launch Lead Teacher, Hoover provides district staff with training and professional development and has garnered 100-percent participation among teachers in her school, while McKinley STEM has gained Project Lead the Way Distinguished School Honors in 2021, 2022 and 2023 under her direction. In addition, Harding Middle School was recognized in 2022 and 2023 while Wells Academy, East Garfield and Pugliese West Elementary Schools earned similar distinctions this past year.

   Dr. Shana Wydra, district STEM and career technical education director, praised Hoover’s achievement and said she has been a major contributor to the students’ success.

   “Ms. Hoover is dedicated to infusing STEM into all aspects of daily core instruction. She provides co-teaching opportunities for all staff to provide 90 minutes each day in the Project Lead The Way Launch Lab,” Dr. Wydra commented. “Ms. Hoover is dedicated and loyal to her students and colleagues. She never settles for status quo but rather seeks ways to improve the learning experience for students and the work experience for those on her team.”

   District Superintendent Melinda Young said the award was a testament to Hoover’s efforts to create the best opportunities for student learning.

   “The award is well deserved,” said Young. “She does everything that is asked of her and more and is always looking for ways to make education fun and meaningful for students.”

                                                          

STEUBENVILLE-Social media has proven to dominate youth’s lives today, but students at Harding Middle School also learned how it has its pitfalls.

    Seventh-and eighth-graders gathered in the school gym Thursday to hear award-winning journalist Catherine Bosley discuss “Forever and For All to See: Our Day of Digital Everything,” which addresses the growing importance of reputation and image management in an age where one’s photos, videos and words can be posted and easily seen across the world. The presentation is sponsored by the Jefferson County Juvenile Task Force in a proactive approach to educate kids on vital issues and reduce cases on the court docket. 

    Bosley, a former television news anchor, now travels the country to share cautionary tales of global online humiliation and educate students about the dangers of posting on the internet. She said there were ways to handle haters, such as ignoring mean comments, blocking bullies from their social media and reminding yourself that hateful comments come from people who do not feel good about themselves. Youth should also remember the “F Factor” of faith, family and friends.

   “We are all going to have those ‘what was I thinking’ moments, but if there’s one thing I want you to remember it’s that pictures can be part of [the internet] forever.”

   Bosley said college admissions officials and potential employers can also view posts, which could impact the students’ chances of attending their dream school or getting a job. She also warned them about trusting others who seek inappropriate photos or who may share their information.

   “It could be a text or shared post or email, and it’s getting shared all over the place. The idea is to make sure you shine your light on for the rest of your lives. We need to protect our online reputation,” she continued. “Listen to that voice in your head because it’s literally a life-saving voice.”

    She encouraged youth to promote positivity with healthy selfies and words and to not bully or shame others. Privacy is also a myth in the internet era and there are images people can and cannot control. Bosley shared stories of teens driven to suicide by cyberbullying or sexting situations, adding that 62 percent of tweens and teens are online bullying victims while 25 percent are bullies. Sexting is also illegal when someone under age 18 takes, has and/or sends images, even if they are of themselves. That could result in jail or time in juvenile detention if convicted, while adult websites can access and post photos and videos and even track unidentified images back to the original poster.

    “Everything you put out there is not only representative of you, it’s representative of your family and it’s representative of your school,” she said. “Ohio students are being targeted [for sexting]. There are creepy people overseas saying they are kids and gaining your trust. They will try to talk you into sharing inappropriate pictures, and you think you are talking to another kid but they are creepy adults.”

   Another tactic known as sextortion is when people threaten to post photos unless they receive money. Bosley stressed the importance of telling someone and the county task force was there to protect them. She concluded by sharing her P.A.C.T. strategy for rising above: People (tell someone), Abandon (social media and negative people), Connect and This too shall pass.

    “You are stronger and smarter and more equipped to help other people. The more vigilant we are and listen to the little voice, the less we can jeopardize our hopes and dreams,” she said.

    County Juvenile Court Administrator Joe Colabella said the task force includes the juvenile court, county sheriff’s office, prosecutor’s office, law enforcement, health department, Prevention and Recovery Board, Family Recovery Center, Ohio BCI, Ohio State Highway Patrol, ALIVE Shelter and A Caring Place Advocacy Center. Nine presentations were being held at county schools with more set for parents, plus there are plans address different topics in the future.

    “Our task force was just formed this year,” Colabella said. “We’re going to pick a social issue every year so kids don’t turn up on the formal docket of the juvenile court. The juvenile court was fortunate to receive a grant from the Ohio Department of Youth Services for community education on social issues.”

     County Juvenile Court Judge Frank Noble Jr. said there was a great need to educate the youth.

    “We saw there were issues in court with sexting, and in the next couple of years we will address suicide, bullying, vaping and some other issues that we’re seeing. We have seen an uptick in internet activity and we want to try to be a little more preventative,” Judge Noble added. “The task force is extremely appreciative of the local superintendents and building principals for their cooperation in an effort to educate the juveniles of Jefferson County.”

    Harding Principal Bryan Mills said the assembly had an important lesson to learn.

    “We’re always trying to deliver a message of internet safety and awareness, and to have the Jefferson County Task Force and Catherine Bosley come in was very important. I’m always looking for outside resources to come and drive these efforts and I appreciate their message to the kids.”

    Bosley has also appeared at Buckeye Local Jr./Sr. High School and Edison Jr./Sr. High School with more dates set for Jefferson County Joint Vocational School this Tuesday, Toronto on Wednesday, Steubenville High School on Sept. 19, Catholic Central High School on Sept. 20, Indian Creek Middle School on Sept. 28 and Indian Creek High School on Oct. 11.

STEUBENVILLE-Longtime Harding Middle School Assistant Principal Donnie Reeves is taking on a new role as the newly minted leader at McKinley STEM Academy.

    Reeves, who served at Harding for the past six years, is thrilled with the opportunity to oversee 180 students in grades PreK-4. He officially began on July 31 but spent much of the summer slowly transitioning into the post.

   “This will be my 24^th year with the district,” said the Steubenville native. “It’s my first year as an elementary principal, and I felt it was the right time to take the next step in my profession.”

   He graduated from Steubenville High School in 1995 and earned a degree in education for grades K-8 from Davis and Elkins University in 2000. Reeves began teaching social studies at Harding and remained there for 17 years before being promoted to assistant principal, plus he coached football, basketball and varsity softball during the mid-2000s. He and wife Jackie, who serves as the district director of gifted education, also share two children, Jack and Trudie.

   “I stepped out of the classroom and assumed a leadership role,” he said. “I actually taught one year at Pugliese West and I think I’ll enjoy [being in the setting again]. It’s great being with the young kids and one of my qualities as an assistant principal was to be on their level. I think kids relate a lot better on this level.”

   Reeves is still becoming acclimated with McKinley but hopes to work with teachers to continue the school’s momentum with educational success.

   “There is an importance to working as a team with distributive leadership and the teachers are the ones the kids interact with,” he added. “I’m excited and nervous at the same time, but I think once we get the ball rolling it will be a smooth transition. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the little faces.”

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville City Schools will welcome students back to class during a series of events that start this week.

    Steubenville High School will host a freshman and new student orientation this Tuesday with a Back to School Bash for upperclassmen on Wednesday. The orientation is mandatory and parents and freshmen should be in attendance. Doors open at 5 p.m. at the commons with activities set for 6 p.m. in the auditorium, and attendants are to pick up papers and provide $20 to cover student homeroom fees. Forms are available both online and at the school, and once the completed paperwork is submitted, students will receive their schedules. Following the presentation, everyone may tour the building while the Red Zone School Store will also be open to purchase Big Red merchandise. 

   “Students can get their schedules, and tour the building and we will go over general procedures for the 2023-24 school year,” said Principal Ted Gorman, noting that about 173 freshmen have enrolled for the term. “Freshmen orientation also gives students the opportunity to join clubs in the building and we will have tables and current students recruiting for organizations. I also believe the orientation is important to make incoming freshmen feel comfortable before school.”

   Sophomores through seniors are invited to the Back to School Bash on Wednesday with 10^th graders to arrive at noon, 11^th graders at 1 p.m. and 12^th graders at 2 p.m. in the school commons. 

  “We get a pretty high percentage of students who come and many of them come because they want to see friends they haven’t seen all summer and they want to get their schedules,” Gorman added.

   He said many of the same activities as the freshman orientation can be expected at the event. Students will receive their class schedules and fill out required forms. If the forms are incomplete, a parent or guardian must attend to sign the paperwork. The students should also bring $20 to cover homeroom fees while the Red Zone will also be accessible.

   “We look forward to seeing our new students as they enter the building. It’s always wonderful to see them and their families,” Gorman said.   For questions or more information, call (740) 282-9741.

   Meanwhile, Harding Middle School Orientation 2023 will be held Wednesday for fifth-graders at 9 a.m. and seventh-graders at 1 p.m. and Thursday for sixth-graders at 9 a.m. and eighth-graders at 1 p.m. Principal Bryan Mills said parents and guardians must also attend and plans are to complete forms, pay $10 student fees, register for bussing and receive their schedules.

  “The fifth-grade will get a tour of the building and have a conversation with the principal,” Mills commented, adding that the remaining classes can collect their schedules.

    Parents of multiple students may choose a time to serve all of their children at once and those who cannot attend may visit the school office from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

  In addition, open houses will be held at East Garfield, Pugliese West and McKinley STEM Academy on Aug. 22 from  1-2 p.m. to familiarize students with classrooms, teachers and school personnel while the first day of school in the district is Aug. 23.

 

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School highlighted the top of the class with the annual University Scholars Breakfast.

   Parents joined educators and administrators as 46 seniors were recognized for their achievements in the school commons and the students led the festivities.

   Seniors Francis Desany welcomed the crowd and Parker Kelley introduced special guests while Sophia Riley recognized favorite teachers. Among the honored educators were John Abram, John Arlesic, Justin Banks, Julie Battistel, Shannon Bednar, Joe Biasi, Mike Blackburn, Edith Boyde, Jessie Clark, Kelley Crosby, Gus DiMarzio, Tom Hicks, Ross Ivkovich, Eliza Kelley, Anthony Kinyo, Scott Lane, Diana Mankowski, Aaron Newman, Brian Peckens, Jeff Petrelle, Sam Pittera, Cheryl Rubish, Ron Salvino, Joseph Smarrella, Scott Wolodkin and Tracy Ziarko.

  Students Camden Daley led invocation prior to the breakfast and Alexandria Miller introduced parent Mike Gray, who offered some inspirational words as the students embarked on their future paths.

   Gray, the proud dad of upcoming alumni Maeve and Mason Gray, said he was equally delighted to watch the students as they excelled in the classroom, in sports, band and as they earned their associate’s degrees while still attending high school.

   “I hope, when you played a game or performed before a crowd of people, you took advantage of the opportunity to look up in the crowd, now matter how large or small, and appreciated the people in attendance,” Gray added. “Many were your friends and family, of course, but many were people that haven’t had a child in school for 20 or 30 years.

   “Scholars, your family and teachers seated with you will assure you, life is going to send hard times your way. Things happen that you cannot anticipate, and it is then that the lessons you have learned in the past 12-plus years will give you the resolve to succeed when things get tough. Keep that school spirit alive in your heart, it will serve you well in difficult times.”

    Senior Vasile Matzorkis also provided some encouraging remarks to his peers. Matzorkis said the event symbolized how far they have come during their high school careers, how they perservered past the COVID pandemic and have been prepared for the next chapter.

  “The last four years at SHS have prepared us for the next four years, and the rest of our lives,” he said. “We all have goals and ambitions and I will say this: Don’t shoot for the stars, shoot beyond them. I know everyone that everyone in this class has the capability and the will do do amazing things and I cannot wait to see where life takes us.”

   Student Sydney Matyas thanked everyone for their support and guidance, after which class Valedictorian Frank Vostatek and Salutatorian Kellen Marshall introduced the 42 university scholars. The list included Vostatek and Marshall as well as Camden Daley, Francis Desany, Parker Kelley, Sydney Matyas, William (Vasile) Matzorkis, Alexandria Miller, Tori Mitchell, Sophia Riley, Todd Blackburn, Brionna Bonar, Celia Crosby, John Dettorre, Dylan Fink, Morgan Grant, Maeve Gray, Mason Gray, Gionna Gulan, Kiyana Hayden, Nadia Hawthorne, Raegan Hayes, Ky Jhaun Hopkins, Bryce Huff, Sydnee Kirkpatrick, Antonio Lulla, Mea Lulla, Joseph Macre, Zoe Martin, Briana Masloski, Melia Newburn, Shayann Oxley, Olivia Price, Hillary Rauch, Jaleyss Sclaes, Jessica Scott, Adelaide Shaw, Kayliyah Simmons, Charles Smith IV, Isabella Smith, Zachary Smith, Mason Stoll, Landyn Swickard, Sabrina Underwood, Dakota White and Drake Ziarko.

   Finally, senior Tori Mitchell offered the closing and Director of Gifted Education Jackie Reeves reminded the scholars they made their school proud.

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School’s implementation of the Freshman Success Academy has made a significant difference when it comes to helping students transitioning from middle school to high school.  

 

   The program, which is now in its second year, is already being described by school leaders as “transformational.” From the ability to apply early intervention, academic, disciplinary and social-emotional issues to the creation of strategic teacher teams and dramatic drops in student-failure rates, the FSA is already showing tangible evidence of the myriad benefits it provides students. In the first year of the program’s implementation, the number of freshman failing a core subject area decreased from 11 percent to approximately 1 percent.

 

   FSA was started during the 2021-22 school year by SHS Assistant Principal and Dean of Students Aaron Newman and School Counselor and Dean of Students Adele Filtz, who based the program on similar concepts at another school district where both were previously employed. Newman and Filtz believed the program would be the perfect fit at Steubenville High School.  

 

   A key feature of the FSA is the “Core 4,” which is the ninth-grade, core-subject teacher team responsible for instructing the majority of freshman students. The Core 4 consists of teachers Jessie Clark, Greg Bowers, Joe Smarrella and Lauren Linn, respectively in the realm of science, math, social studies and English/Literature Arts. This team, along with Newman, Filtz and other high school educators, meet biweekly to identify students of concern while also crafting personalized intervention plans. The primary goal is to find ways to help the students succeed in and out of the classroom.

 

   “It’s often said that it takes a village,” said Filtz. “With our focus on teamwork and collaboration, we create a family atmosphere within the freshman class, serving essentially as a small learning community at the high school.”  

 

   “Numerous studies have established that students who are credit-deficient at the end of ninth-grade are at a higher risk to drop out of high school,” Newman interjected. “This is a multi-pronged effort that provides early intervention  combined with immediate supports, whether they be academic, social-emotional, disciplinary, truancy and attendance. We want to create optimal conditions for teaching and learning for our ninth-graders. The importance of freshman year can’t be understated in the grand scheme of things. We empathize the fact that everything counts when you reach the high-school level.”  

 

      Filtz continued that 85 percent of the schools’ roughly 190 freshmen take classes from the same four core teachers, while she and Newman also meet with the students and their parents to address the situation. That, combined with work by SHS Assistant Principal and Truancy Liaison Bobby Lamantia, has proven to be  an effective tool to improve the students’ education

 

   “Part of why we’re so successful is because we have systems in place and Mr. Lamantia has a really organized, systematic approach to truancy,” said Newman. “With students of concern, they may have a variety of needs. The  key to FSA’s success is getting supports in place quickly so we can get them turned around.”

 

   They further explained that GPA, attendance and involvement in extracurriculars have become crucially important with colleges, placing less emphasis on ACT and  SAT scores. The freshman year takes on greater importance as students work to build a quality resume and cumulative GPA.

 

   A common thread with student issues is responsible decision-making, whether it be with academics, family life and relationships or social media. Newman said the real focus should be placed on the real world so students can make responsible decisions and stay on track in school and in life. They added that leaders can also celebrate students’ successes through Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and recommend them for Student of the Month honors.

 

   “It matters. At the end of the day, that’s what separates this building from others. Culture matters. We’re all about culture,” Newman said. “We implement best practices that produce positive outcomes for kids and mitigate the negatives.”

 

   “We strive to be innovative with everything we do and we’re already seeing results,” Filtz concluded. “We hope to continue with that success this year. We’re trying to train students to be good citizens and mold them to make forward-thinking choices that maximize their potential.” 

STEUBENVILLE-The Steubenville High School NIKE Club is setting its third blood drive on April 19 and members are seeking support from the school and community.

 

   The organization is once again joining forces with the American Red Cross for the event, which will be held in the new gym from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Nike Club members will register donors and provide refreshments at the canteen under the supervision of American Sign Language teacher Jessica Chesslar while Red Cross medical staff will handle the collection.  

 

   Donors must be at least 16 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and be healthy to participate. Anyone who turns 16 years old on or before that date is eligible to contribute and may register and select a donation time; however, walk-ins are also accepted. Those who are an eligible type O, B or A- may consider making a Power Red donation since red blood cells are most commonly used for blood transfusions. The collection enables the Red Cross to replenish its supply and is used within the greater Allegheny area.

 

   Advisor Katrina Morrow said it was the first time the group was conducting a third event under her tenure. The organization has sponsored a biannual event each fall and spring, with the latter held in February for the past two years.

 

  “So far, the previous two blood drives collected 57 units, which is the highest total unit collection in my eight years as coordinator,” she said. 

 

   Morrow added that it not only helps save lives but also earns one $250 American Red Cross scholarship for a graduating SHS senior. The upcoming campaign would aid others in need of medical care and also benefit another soon-to-be-alum.

 

   “We are hosting a third blood drive to hopefully get enough units so that we are able to give a second scholarship to a graduating senior that has donated blood this school year,” she continued.

   

   The NIKE Club is an all-female organization which includes 40 members in grades 9-12. Named for the Greek goddess, its purpose is to build connections with each other as well as the Ohio Valley Business and Professional Women’s organization. The student group volunteers for community service including concession stands during school games, events at SHS and other Steubenville City Schools and in the community. Half of the concession stand proceeds also help fund two scholarships each year while the members’ volunteer hours go toward academic letters and senior Capstone community service projects. This will be the final NIKE Club event, but an end-of-year dinner 

is eyed in the coming weeks to bid farewell to graduating members and swear in new officers for the 2023-24 school year.

 

   For more information or to register for the blood drive, contact 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or go to https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=BigRed.

STEUBENVILLE-Pugliese West is getting down on the farm as students celebrate Kinder Country Day this Thursday.

 

    Kindergarten pupils will have the opportunity to show and educate other students at school about farmlife and animals. STEM and project-based learning activities will be held with some animals provided by Life’s A Boer Farm of  Flushing. It is the first year for the event and kindergarten teacher Rachael Andes, who is the organizer, said about 250 kids will be participating in grades PreK-1.

 

   “At Kinder Country Days, there will be several activities for the students to participate in. There will be “Milking the Cow” STEM activity, “Herding Sheep” gross motor activity, soil, hay and corn exploration, line dancing, a farm diorama showcase and a farm animal petting zoo,” Andes said. “We are so excited and proud to show off our baby chicks! Our kindergarten students have learned all about chicks and chickens and have hatched their very own.”

 

   Andes added that she hoped to see Kinder Country Day become an annual event and it was a fun and educational activity.

 

   “ We decided to make our project-based learning on farm animals because it aligned with our Success For All curriculum unit and our students are passionate about animals.”

 

    She was grateful for the support of many people who helped plan the activity, including fellow kindergarten teachers Amy Crowe, Tracie Swinsinski and Christine Elson as well as Pugliese parents.

 

   “I cannot thank my team enough for the planning collaboration and implementation to make this event possible,” she said. “Thank you to our parents for all their continuous support and dedication, and a huge thank you to Life’s A Boer Farm for visiting us earlier this month and for coming to our event and educating our students on farm animals, specifically boer goats and chickens. A huge thank you also to our principal, Lynnett Gorman, facilitators Krystal Yourkovich and Jennifer Blackburn and the staff for their support in making this event possible.” 

STEUBENVILLE-Eighth-graders at Harding Middle School got a glimpse of their future as they toured Steubenville High School this past  week.

 

   Big Red opened its doors during the annual HMS to SHS Transition Days on March 7-9, where an estimated 180 middle school students spent time touring the facility and learning about educational and extracurricular opportunities as they enter their freshmen year. The students first attended a brief presentation where they were welcomed and given an overview of offerings, then each one was paired with a high school student ambassador to shadow for the next four hours. They also had lunch in the school commons before returning to Harding.

 

   School Counselor and Dean of Students Adele Filtz said the pairing enabled the youth to interact with the upperclassmen and become more acclimated to their new surroundings.

 

   “We had about 100 student ambassadors,” Filtz said, adding that they were nominated by teachers to participate each day. “We want [the eighth-graders] to meet new people and become familiar with the school, and they also get to meet the staff.”

 

  Participating middle school students and SHS ambassadors agreed that it gave them a chance to become well acquainted with each other and the setting.

 

   Eighth-grader Kalijah Petteway said he was interested in soccer and learned about sports and classes from student ambassador Jalen Minniefield.

 

   “I’m telling everyone stuff about Big Red, how experienced the teachers are and what they will learn,” added Minniefield.

 

   Samuel Whittington said he was mostly excited about wanting to join the football team when he attends Big Red this fall, while he shadowed student ambassador Sabron Felton and visited areas throughout the school. 

 

   “I think I’m most excited about the classes and just coming to high school,” noted eighth-grader Mason Rettinger, who was paired with student ambassador Lawrence Daniels.

 

   “I showed him around the classes and he met with the teachers,” Daniels commented.

 

   Eighth-grader Aubrey Slussar joined upperclassman Natalie Romanyak and enjoyed getting a first-hand look at the educational environment.

 

   “I’m excited to see the classes and to see what I’m going to do next year,” Slussar said.

 

   Student ambassador Summer Murdock teamed up with Sa’Niyah Newton and showed her classrooms, the pool and other facilities.

 

   “There are different activities and opportunities for us to participate in,” said Newton.

 

   Principal Ted Gorman said it was a positive experience for everyone.

 

   "We had a wonderful three days getting to meet our future students,” Gorman added. “The eighth-grade students really enjoy ‘bumping up’ to the next grade, seeing who their teachers may be and participating in some high school activities. Our high school ambassadors did a great job of showing the students around the school."

 

    About 75 eighth-graders in the College Credit Plus program are also expected to return each day in May for Maymester while the entire class will attend orientation in August prior to the new school term.

STEUBENVILLE-East Garfield Elementary students are getting hands-on knowledge about hatchlings through the ChickQuest program. 

 

   Preschool, kindergarten and third-grade classes are participating in the program through The Ohio State University. ChickQuest is an elementary science program that includes a series of standards-based supporting activities and delivers science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) content in the context of positive youth development. Preschool intervention specialist Jamie Thompson, said she learned about the program last spring and joined three other teachers for a training session in Columbus in August. Free equipment and a dozen eggs have been provided for the school and an incubator is currently housed in her classroom.

 

   “The process takes 21 days and we have to keep the incubator at the correct temperature and humidity. Once the eggs start to hatch, we will keep them in a brooder box with a heat lamp,” Thompson said. “This is the first time we’ve done it. It comes with a logbook and we’re going to team up with the third-graders.”

 

    She added that the classes will collaborate and complete assignments in science, social studies, math and reading. Thompson said the students were excited about watching the life cycle up close.

 

  “This ties in literature and we will research animals that lay eggs,” she explained. “The third-grade will team up with our preschoolers for the research project.”

 

   Thompson said the students were excited about their new endeavor.

 

   “I’m happy,” added preschooler Symphany Robinson. “[I can’t wait to see] the chicks.”

 

   Thompson said the hatchlings will eventually find a new home in a chicken coop owned by one of the teachers.

STEUBENVILLE-Eighth-graders advancing to Steubenville Big Red this fall will get a little preview of high school life during HMS to SHS Transition Days.

 

   Principal Ted Gorman said about 180 students from Harding Middle School will descend upon Big Red on March 7-9 to become familiar with their new surroundings. The students will visit classrooms and also learn about extracurricular activities such as athletics and organizations so they can become involved as full-fledged freshmen.

 

   “We will bus eighth-graders from Harding and they will spend half a day at the high school getting acclimated to teachers, classrooms and classmates,” Gorman said. “They will shadow student ambassadors and eat lunch and the administration will have a brief presentation at the beginning. We’re trying to make it a smooth transition because the two hardest times for transition are in fifth and ninth grade.”

 

    He added that it was akin to Harding’s Making Memories in the Middle event on March 10 that will introduce fourth-grade elementary students to the middle school environment, although that activity will include offerings for students and parents in an evening event from 6-8 p.m. 

 

    Meanwhile, about 75 College Credit Plus students will make a stop in May in an event that has been held for about four years. Gorman said it was another way to familiarize the students with the high school setting.

 

   “We’re trying to make them as comfortable as possible when they get here,” he commented. “We try to get them to know the students. That’s important also.”

STEUBENVILLE-McKinley STEM Academy is thinking spring with its upcoming literacy night festivities.

 

   The school will host activities on March 16 from 4-6 p.m. and feature its “One School, One Book” project with a Black History Month edition of “Secret Garden.” Principal Deanna Beall said games and more are set for students and parents to enjoy and prior literacy night events have been a successful draw.

 

   “We will have food trucks, a spring garden party with activities in the greenhouse, arts, crafts and games,” Beall said.

 

   In case of inclement weather, activities will be moved to the school gym. Beall added that about 300 people attended a fall literacy night and she was hopeful for a similar turnout.

 

   “This is the fourth year that the school has been open and we had two literacy nights last year,” she said. “This year, we were able to do more. We’re gearing it towards the ‘One School, One Book’ program and all of our kids have the same book. It’s a great book for the upper grade levels but a good experience for the younger ones to be exposed to.”

 

      Beall added that younger students can read with adults at home and all 180 pupils have taken part in daily activities with comprehension questions for prizes, plus they complete STEM challenges as part of the educational experience. 

STEUBENVILLE-Harding Middle School will give incoming students a glimpse of upperclassman life when it hosts Making Memories in the Middle on March 10.

 

   Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with activities to run from 6-8 p.m. and all fourth-graders and their families within Steubenville City Schools are invited, as well as any student living outside the district who may be interested in enrolling. Shay Greiner, school social worker, said the event is now in its 10^th year and those planning to attend can enjoy an evening of fun while touring the building and exploring programs.

 

     “We provide new activities each year,” said Greiner. “This year, we have a few new rooms and activities to offer.”

 

   Among them are a rollercoaster display, Fine Arts tables and information, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) station with information on #StallionWay, pie-in-the-face game with student-athletes, School Bases Health Clinic table, fourth-grade puzzle mural, Bingo, photo booth/wall, Stallion quilt activity, HMHS Helps Me Grow, March Madness activity, school nurse educational table, locker escape room, eighth-grade Q&A session and giveaways such as HMS gift bags and magnets.

   “This event was started to help alleviate some of the early anxieties our fourth-grade students have making the jump to a new building. It is only natural after spending six or seven years in one building that there be some anxiety when jumping to a new one,” she said. “With this experience, students gain the opportunity to explore the building and some of our programs, meet staff they will see or have as teachers in the coming year and mingle with older students. In addition, this event provides a platform for our elementary students to mingle with each other.”

   Harding accepts fourth-grade students from Pugliese West Elementary, East Garfield Elementary, Wells Academy and McKinley STEM Academy and the event helps pupils who have not had many opportunities to get to know each other, particularly since they attend separate schools until fifth-grade. About 220 fourth-graders and their families have been invited to the upcoming festivities.

   Greiner said school staff, students and leaders are involved in Making Memories in the Middle and help keep it going strong.

   “It takes a team effort to organize this event. Making Memories in the Middle would not be a success without the staff who volunteer their time and Solutions teams and even our own students help plan and decorate for the occasion.”

STEUBENVILLE-Harding Middle School will give incoming students a glimpse of upperclassman life when it hosts Making Memories in the Middle on March 10.

 

   Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with activities to run from 6-8 p.m. and all fourth-graders and their families within Steubenville City Schools are invited, as well as any student living outside the district who may be interested in enrolling. Shay Greiner, school social worker, said the event is now in its 10^th year and those planning to attend can enjoy an evening of fun while touring the building and exploring programs.

 

     “We provide new activities each year,” said Greiner. “This year, we have a few new rooms and activities to offer.”

 

   Among them are a rollercoaster display, Fine Arts tables and information, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) station with information on #StallionWay, pie-in-the-face game with student-athletes, School Bases Health Clinic table, fourth-grade puzzle mural, Bingo, photo booth/wall, Stallion quilt activity, HMHS Helps Me Grow, March Madness activity, school nurse educational table, locker escape room, eighth-grade Q&A session and giveaways such as HMS gift bags and magnets.

   “This event was started to help alleviate some of the early anxieties our fourth-grade students have making the jump to a new building. It is only natural after spending six or seven years in one building that there be some anxiety when jumping to a new one,” she said. “With this experience, students gain the opportunity to explore the building and some of our programs, meet staff they will see or have as teachers in the coming year and mingle with older students. In addition, this event provides a platform for our elementary students to mingle with each other.”

   Harding accepts fourth-grade students from Pugliese West Elementary, East Garfield Elementary, Wells Academy and McKinley STEM Academy and the event helps pupils who have not had many opportunities to get to know each other, particularly since they attend separate schools until fifth-grade. About 220 fourth-graders and their families have been invited to the upcoming festivities.

   Greiner said school staff, students and leaders are involved in Making Memories in the Middle and help keep it going strong.

   “It takes a team effort to organize this event. Making Memories in the Middle would not be a success without the staff who volunteer their time and Solutions teams and even our own students help plan and decorate for the occasion.”

STEUBENVILLE- Students and parents will go wild at East Garfield Elementary during its annual literacy night on Feb. 22.

 

   Activities are set to begin at 5 p.m. and the theme is “One School, One Book: The Jungle Book.” It is being organized by school staff and events include a cake walk, snakes, sensory tables, a library table, photo booth, crafts, a safari hunt and games. About 200 people are expected to attend and officials said the purpose of the event is for students and families to have fun evening together and make memories at the school.

STEUBENVILLE-Valentine’s Day is a time to give from the heart, and students and local residents also gave of themselves during the biannual blood drive at Steubenville High School.

 

   The Nike Club sponsored the event Tuesday in conjunction with the American Red Cross and collected 31 units from donors with an overall total of 58 units for the year. The all-female student organization gathered 27 units during a previous drive in November and advisor Katrina Morrow said the latest effort yielded an impressive turnout.

 

  “We had a steady stream of outside [residents] and students,” Morrow said. “We’ve also had three or four people do the Power Red donations, which is two pints of blood and counts for at least six donations.”

 

   The collection has a two-fold benefit: saving lives and earning scholarships for graduating seniors. Morrow added that one $250 American Red Cross scholarship could be given away and she was grateful to everyone for pitching in to help those in need.  She added that spring blood drives were generally more well-attended and club members hung promotional flyers to draw attention, while some teachers also gave extra credit to students who made a donation. Nike Club members signed up contributors at the registration table and provided snacks and the required 15-to-20-minute respite following collections at the canteen while Red Cross medical staff oversaw the donations.

 

   Students and residents alike said they donated because they wanted to make a difference in someone else’s life.

 

   “I was going to last year but I wasn’t old enough,” said sophomore Magdalene Crisante, saying it was her first time. “I have always wanted to and thought it was important because there are people with medical issues...and I wanted to help.”

 

   “I just wanted to do it,” added sophomore Ruth Deah, another first-time donor, who noted that she might donate again in the future.

 

   Junior Nicole Barr has donated at least three times and said she was inspired by her mother.

 

  “My mom is a nurse and has always donated, and she told me about it when I was little,” Barr continued. “I’m terrified of needles but I’d still do it.”

 

  Steubenville native and Follansbee resident Frank Babaryk traveled across the bridge and rolled up his sleeve for the cause, which made it his seventh donation but his first time at SHS.

 

   “I thought about it for a long time. It benefits other people and rejuvenates my blood, too.”

 

  Sophomore Michael Fuchs contributed for the second time and said his blood goes a long way.

 

  “I just thought it was the right thing to do. Mine is O Negative, so it goes with everybody,” Fuchs said.

 

  Junior Javin Harper also saw the need and participated for the first time.

  

  “I thought about how people are feeling,” said Harper. “If I was in that position, I’d hope someone would do the same thing for me.”

 

   The Nike Club has held blood drives each fall and spring with the latter being conducted in February for the past two years. Morrow said the collection enables the Red Cross to replenish its supply and the units are used within the greater Allegheny area.

STEUBENVILLE-A group of Wells Academy students will depict influential figures in honor of African American History Month for February.

 

  The second annual “Third-Grade Wax Museum” will take place in the school gym on Feb. 17 at 11:30 a.m. About 60 students will dress as historic leaders and other notables and share information with schoolmates and staff. Teachers Alexis Mahoney and Michelle Timmons are organizing the event as a unique way to celebrate the occasion.

 

    “The purpose is to have the third-grade students research influential African Americans. They will dress as this person and the other students at the school will walk around, ask them questions and learn more about these famous people,” said Mahoney. “It was formed last year because Mrs. Timmons and I wanted a more creative way to have our students complete their research projects for African American History Month. We found the instructions on how to do it and it was very successful last year.”

 

   She added that there was one alteration to the activity this time around.

   “This year is very similar to last year with one exception, we have very unique famous African Americans that the students researched this year. Some of these include the first female African American police officers, the first African American female librarian, and the inventor of the ice cream scoop, just to name a few.”

    Mahoney continued that it was also a special take on history lessons and was well received.

   “The students in the other grades love it just as much as the third graders. It's a very fun way to teach about famous African Americans,” she said. “The students will wear costumes and bring props and there will be music playing from African Americans artists.”

STEUBENVILLE-Steubenville High School will recognize Pathfinders in February who have made an impact upon the community.

 

   The school will host its annual assembly on Feb. 17 at 10 a.m. in the auditorium and will feature honorees Pastor Bobbyjon Bauman, Patti West and Crystal Wicker. Principal Ted Gorman said they were selected by the Pathfinder Committee for their valuable contributions to the area.

 

   “Every year, we hold an assembly to honor our Pathfinders,” he said. “They are community members who have enhanced our community’s culture and fostered improvement in one of the following areas: education, citizenship and government, humanity (helping others), business and arts (music, drama and sports).”

 

   Both Bauman and West will be recognized for humanitarianism while Wicker will be honored for her contribution to education. The assembly is also an opportunity for current SHS students to lead the program and several will perform at the event through song and dance. In addition, Black History Month essay contest winners will read their words. Gorman said it was a wonderful way to showcase the students. Guests and honorees will also lunch in the Keenan Conference Room following the event.

 

   “Every year, we look forward to our Pathfinder assembly. It is a great opportunity to honor people who have contributed to our community or their own community. This student-led assembly is a nice way to show our appreciation and to showcase our students’ talent.”