May, 2019

From the Desk of Tom Wood, Superintendent

Avoid the Summer Slide

After a brutal winter and a spring that has been up and down, it is hard to believe that summer is just around the corner. Students will soon be out of school for the break! If students laze away the days of summer without using their minds, they can lose up to a month of learning—especially in reading and math. Stem the summer slide and keep your child engaged with these fun, brain-friendly activities.

Devise a plan. Tell your child that reading and learning activities will be an important part of their summer. Assure them that they’ll still have lots of time for play.

Teach mini-lessons. Transform everyday activities into learning opportunities. Children can count change, read directions for a trip, write a shopping list, or calculate a recipe’s measurements.

Gather activity books. Give children their own activity book with crossword puzzles or number games customized for their specific c age group. Set a “due date” to keep them on track, but let them work at their own pace.

Initiate a writing project. Have your child keep a summer journal, write letters to family members or friends, or craft a play to perform with siblings or neighbors. Or, start a family cookbook with your favorite recipes, instructions, and shopping lists.

Strategize screen time. Educational computer games or apps can engage students’ minds, but make sure your child is spending enough time away from the screen. Assign a daily block of time for family members to turn off phones, computers, and the TV, and instead play a board game or read together.

Designate daily reading blocks. Set aside at least 15 minutes a day for your entire family to read. (That means parents, too!) Find reading recommendations by grade level on the American Library Association’s book lists or visit a local library. Organize a summer read-a-thon with goals for each family member, or sign your child up for your library’s summer book club.

Go global. Set aside several nights during the summer to have an international evening. Together, cook a meal with recipes from a different nation. Learn basic words in that country’s language. Find the country on a map, and together examine a book or article with information on what life is like there.

Sneak learning into family trips. If your family is able to take a vacation during the summer, include stops at zoos, children’s museums, or historic sites. Have your child help you plot out the journey using maps and keep a journal along the way. Older children can tally up miles, keep track of expenses, or compute gas mileage.

Get moving. Build physical activity into your child’s summer days. Even if he or she can’t participate in a local sports league or community-based team, encourage activities such as jumping rope, playing catch, and taking family walks.

For more resources, look to your child’s school, your local library and the internet for ideas to keep kids’ brains buzzing during the dog days of summer.

From the Desk of Josh Moser, Secondary Principal

“Eachfriendrepresentsaworldinus,aworldpossiblynot

bornuntiltheyarrive,anditisonlybythismeetingthatanewworldisborn.”

-Anais Nin The end of a school year always brings such a swell and range of feelings – joy, heartbreak, anxiousness, hope, celebration, sadness, and laughter. It symbolizes the transition of the old to the new; this year is done, now we are looking forward to the next, with whatever that next year may bring. For our eighth grade students, they are looking toward their high school years and the experiences they are promised. For our seniors, they are looking forward to what lies beyond the walls of Martensdale-St. Marys. They are leaving the comfort they’ve known to find new comforts beyond. Sometimes that means the same people will be with them; other times it means meeting and making new friends.

And for the parents in the mix: it is another year passed of our children growing up too fast. If I could pause here to talk about our graduating seniors: The students in the Class of 2019 were in seventh grade my first year as principal here at Martensdale-St. Marys. Over the course of these past six years, in a certain sense, we have grown together. To be fair, most these students were already taller than I was by the time they reached high school, but that’s also not saying much. These students have all had a hand in the trajectory of our school, our students, and our staff. Among them are leaders, workers, athletes, artists, musicians, soldiers, scholars, and missionaries. They are dedicated, loyal, tenacious, free-spirited, funny, and memorable. I wish each and every one of them the very best as they seek what is next in their journeys. As the Martensdale-St. Marys Class of 2019 is wrapping up their high school careers, we are also preparing to bid farewell to four longtime junior high/high school teachers who are retiring at the end of this school year. I have had the pleasure of working with these four fine individuals for the entirety of my time at MStM, and each in their own way, have shaped my time as a Blue Devil. Here are a few notes about each of them: John Amfahr came to Martensdale in 1987 and has remained a social studies teacher throughout that entire time. He has also coached wrestling and girls track, often with success as well as the admiration of his colleagues in the coaching realm. Mr. Amfahr’s no-nonsense approach to teaching and learning has garnered him a great deal of respect from his colleagues, students, and families of our district. When hearing from his peers, they say Mr. Amfahr has high expectations for students in both the academic and non-academic realms. Furthermore, he exhibits the patience, classroom management, and compassion to help students succeed. He holds himself accountable, works in the best interest of students, and mentors students and teachers alike. As a result, his classroom is a place of constant learning and activity while being a safe and supportive place for students. John Amfahr will be greatly missed, and I am proud to have been able to work with him. Vivian Butcher will be the first to admit that she is “old school,” but that is more of a term of endearment, in my book. This, along with her perpetual commitment to students as well as her colleagues, is what makes Mrs. Butcher a favorite teacher for many. In her more than 40 years at Martensdale-St. Marys, she has had an impact on literally thousands of students and families. Her teaching colleagues have said she always wants the kids to do well and she helps them understand the ‘why’ for their work. She also cares for all people in the community beyond her role in the classroom. More direct and to the point, one colleague has said, “Vivian is everything that a teacher should be - she goes above and

beyond to let students know she cares about them and wants them to be successful.” I could not agree more. Being able to work with Mrs. Butcher has been one of the great pleasures of my professional career, and she has my utmost respect and admiration. I hope to see her in the coming months and years in our hallways again. Susan Clark started teaching vocal music at MStM in the fall of 2003. Over the past 16 years, Mrs. Clark has worked with every student who attended our school because she taught students in grades kindergarten through 12th. Anyone who took a class with Mrs. Clark knows how to respond to her trademark “Shh Shh Shh-Shh-Shh” when the class was getting a little rowdy. She provides our students with their first taste of musical technique and appreciation in elementary is there to direct them in their final performance at our graduations. When speaking of Mrs. Clark, a colleague of hers recently told me that she “acknowledges and recognizes all students in her care, and makes a point to provide appropriate instruction for them.” Her enthusiasm for the arts and her perpetual optimism will be missed in the months and years to come, and I am thankful to have been able to work with her. Chuck Hilsabeck has become a stalwart figure on our teaching staff during the 12 years he has been a Blue Devil. He taught in a few other places around the state before coming to Martensdale, but we were glad to get him when he did. Mr. Hilsabeck is always willing to make adjustments for his students to ensure they learn mathematics and its processes. He develops rapport with students and parents very quickly, and it has everything to do with the fact they know he cares about them. Math may not be everyone’s favorite subject, but he makes learning fun and meaningful in every class. As one colleague shared with me, “It's going to be weird without him for a while – his advice is always helpful and appreciated.” Chuck Hilsabeck is and will forever be a valued colleague and friend, and like his other colleagues, will be greatly missed next year and beyond. For the students and staff that are leaving MStM after this year, I wish you all the very best.

From the Desk of Beth Happe, Elementary Principal

Spring is here and at MStM Elementary, we are working diligently to finish the school year strong, with a sense of great accomplishment. We will begin the month of May participating in administration of the statewide assessments, The Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress or ISASP. Grades 3-6 will be participating in these assessments. All grades will participate in the FAST spring screening window, which will include reading and mathematics. The

data collected from all will help us inform instruction and is used as a part of the continual improvement process.

Spring Fever!

We all know, as the days grow longer, the weather gets warmer. While the sun lingers a bit more each day, have you noticed your children becoming listless and excited at the same time? They’ve probably caught spring fever— and the feeling is contagious.

The best treatment for spring fever is to ease into the season by maintaining your family’s routines as much as possible. You know that homework and chores still have to get done, and they will with your support.

Spring also creates changes in the weather. As it gets warmer, kids of all ages want to be outside more often. But, cool mornings, warmer afternoons and those April showers make dressing children a challenge. Please remember that layers are always a good way to go. Send a jacket or sweatshirt along to school. The temps fluctuate a great deal throughout the day and week!

Check your child’s backpack!

There are many field trips, walks to the park and other fun things taking place from now until the last day of school. Make sure you are checking your child’s backpack for notes and other communication from the teachers. These days create wonderful memories for your children. We will be having a school-wide field day on May 28th. (Rain date – May 29th) This will take place at the football stadium and track. More details to come!

Thank you for your continued support of our students and staff as we work together to learn and to grow. We have already been planning for great things for the 2019-2020 school year. Our work never stops!

From the Desk of Randy Folkerts, Secondary Counselor

Commonly Asked Questions 

Parents and students often ask  some of  the same questions 

which I am glad to answer. This article tries to address a lot of 

commonly asked questions in regard to college planning.  

1. When should my student take the ACT? 

There  is  no  magic  time  to  take  the  ACT. My  usual 

response  is  to  take  the  ACT  during  the  junior  year 

but it can be taken earlier. A good rule of thumb is to 

take the ACT when a student is enrolled in Algebra II. 

There  is  a  lot  of  geometry  and  algebra  on  the  ACT 

and  sometimes  it  is  helpful  to  take  the  ACT  while 

enrolled  in  Algebra  II.  For  sure,  a  student  who  is 

applying to a four year college/university should take 

the ACT at least during their  junior year so they will 

have  an  ACT  score  to  use  to  apply  to  four  year 

colleges in the fall of their senior year. 

Should a student take the ACT more than once? 

ACT reports that 55% of students that take the ACT a 

second  time  raise  their  score.  Realize  that  it 

obviously  benefits  ACT  monetarily  for  students  to 

take the test multiple times. But the 55% figure  is a 

reasonable  expectation.  Students  should  do  some 

type of preparation prior to taking the test. The most 

beneficial preparation is just doing practice tests.  

3.  If a student takes the ACT a second time, does that hurt 

the students chance of admission to a college? 

No. Colleges will take the highest score. 

4. What is the score that a student should get on the ACT to 

be admitted? 

A 20 composite  score  is  commonly  seen as a major 

indicator  of  four  year  college  success.  It  actually 

varies college to college. Some colleges have higher 

admission  standards  so  the  ACT  score  requirement 

will  be  higher.  Other  colleges  may  have  lower 

admission  standards.  To  be  sure,  check  the  college 

website  and  click  on  admissions  for  the  freshman 

admission  requirements.  Or  call  the  admissions 

office  and  speak  to  a  college  admissions 

representative.  

SUMMER 2019 – What Juniors can do to Prepare for College 

Planning 

1. Put  together  a portfolio of  information  to be  ready  to  fill 

out  college  applications.  Accumulate  information  in  regards 

to  activities,  honors  and  awards,  volunteer  and  community 

service  accomplishments.  This  makes  it  easier  to  complete 

scholarship applications and college admission applications. 

2.  Volunteer  in  service  opportunities  and  then  list  them  on 

applications for scholarships. 

3.  Spend  time  surfing  college  web  sites  to  learn  about 

prospective colleges and narrow your list to 3‐5 colleges.  

Class of 2020: Plan College Visits for Fall, 2019 

The  fall  is a busy  time with start of  school,  fall  athletics,  fall 

music and  speech activities. Now  is a good  time  to begin  to 

think about  scheduling  college visits  to prospective  colleges. 

It is best to go in the fall before snow blankets the campus. It 

is important for parents to arrange time off from work to go 

on the visit. Check college web sites or call college admission 

offices for individual and group visit days. The campus visit is 

the single most important factor in deciding which college to 

attend.  Planning  ahead  and  coordinating  school  and  work 

schedules can be tricky, but looking ahead can give you a day 

that will work well for students and parents.   

From the Desk of John Amfahr, Social Studies

United States History 8 – The students just completed units over the World War I, the Roaring Twenties, and the Great Depression. Next, they are going to be learning about the Second World War. Students will be tying in their knowledge of these events to our political and social policies of today.

Social Sciences 9 – Students have studied geography and major events in world history so far this semester. To finish the year we will cover social science topics such as American history, psychology, archaeology, world religions, sociology, Iowa history, political science, and economics.

Government 12 – The students just finished a unit about the Constitution and now will turn to learning about how they can play a more active role in our democratic system. We will examine our own opinions, compare them to our leaders, and apply that knowledge to theorize about the implications of our government policies on our future.

Psychology – We have just finished our background study of the fundamentals of Psychology and the role of biology in our behavior. The students gained an understanding about the persistent question of nature vs. nurture in human behavior and the role that our senses play in how we perceive the world around us. We will conclude the semester by learning about thinking, memory, learning, and child development.

Western Civilization – the students just completed the process of creating a board game over the Age of Discovery and the Renaissance in small groups. Next we will begin our study of wars throughout history. They will make comparisons between conflicts of different eras as well as learning about how technology has changed through the years. The focus of their studies will be directed at how the different wars have affected the average soldier and citizen that is often caught in the middle of a conflict.

From the Desk of Christian Bengtson, Social Studies

Sophomores are going through modern world history. First semester was looking at ancient times around the globe. This semester we started with the Renaissance and continued through the Protestant Reformation within Europe. We moved through the Scientific Revolution followed by Napoleon Bonaparte and the French Revolution. Numerous events following the Congress of Vienna inevitably led to World War I marking our current topic of study. We are looking to get to World War II to finish the school year.

The Juniors have been going through the events in American history. Starting all the way back, looking at events such as the discovery of America and the American Revolution. Then, we have studied moments in time such as the closing of the American frontier and Civil War. After that we looked at Industrialization in America and how that helped pave the way for numerous changes in American lives. We are finishing the year by looking at World Wars of the 20th century and how they have impacted our nation.

Sociology is an elective course, so we have students from a couple different grades. Thus far, the students have been studying numerous topics like understanding the sociological point of view in history or the present. Also, we’ve asked what is culture and how does it differ around the world? Socialization influences humans a lot, so how do outside influences affect personality development. A sociological lens the students have looked through is age and how stages in life bring about different responsibilities and challenges. We just finished on the purpose of deviance and crime in society. Currently we have started learning about social stratification and the Indian caste system.

From the Desk of Madison Twaddell, PK-12 Art

Welcome back to the MStM’s art room!! In the last newsletter I talked about all of the spring projects our little creative minds have been working on and plans for the high school students in the classes! We are officially done creating spring themed projects and moving on towards working with clay and a final project for the year! I definitely feel like I jumped feet first though with the clay however. SUCH. A. MESS!! Big shout out to my advisory students and random students that come in throughout the day during their study halls that help me clean up! You guys are the real MVS’s (Most valuable students!).

PK and Kindergarten: has been working on watercolor planets, and let me just say, they are “out of this world”! Our next project has been with clay (“Mrs. T, clay with PK and Kindergarteners??? Are you crazy??” Let me just tell you all that all art teachers are crazy.) I found this air dry Crayola clay, which has been SO great to use. We have been starting to create little bugs that we see in the spring/summer. Ladybugs, bees, and butterflies, Oh my! They have turned out fabulous though and can’t wait to see them painted!

1st Grade: have been working so hard on their Monet Waterlily Pond with oil pastel resist and salt effect, which has turned out into “masterpieces” just like Claude Monet himself! They then dived in with their clay projects in working with adding clay into a rectangle piece to write their name. It’s been tricky, but we managed to get through!

2nd Grade: worked on creating 3D watercolor flowers to brighten our hallways and they have not disappointed! I even let them glue on their choice of beads to add a little bling. Ooo-La-La! Moving on to their clay (I still think they got the best project assignment EVER!) SHOE TURTLES! You heard that right! They made a ball of clay, and then stepped on it!! They loved it as much as I enjoyed watching them create their turtle shells. They then added on the head, legs, and tails onto their shoe print shell. They are so adorable!

3rd Grade: have been getting in the patterns groove with their Zentangle Gardens. We had so many patterns we were going crazy with our ideas!! For those of you that don’t know, Zentangles are patterns that make up a picture, similar to mosaics, but with patterns that fill the gaps! We had so many spots we needed to draw our patterns we had to look up some on google to give us ideas! Moving on to the clay pieces, they created pinch pot fruits!! I have one class that is “banana” for making pineapple bowls, 6 of them all together! I think that’s a sign that they are ready for summer.

4th Grade: finished up their gigantic food that they painted, working on their color mixing techniques to get a desired color to use for painting. They looked so good and yummy, I

wanted to just take a bite of their paintings! (We talked about the safety hazards that comes with eating a painting, it was a very entertaining conversation). They then are moving on with the herd and creating pinch pots like the 3rd graders, but of their favorite animals!! My favorite one so far has been a giraffe because it’s a head taller than all the rest!

5th Grade: were so excited about their clay pieces that they blazed right through their Van Gogh Starry Night themed Flowers! They created their 3D watercolor flowers like the 2nd graders, but they added in their rhythm and movement backgrounds, just like Van Gogh’s Starry Night painting!! Their clay projects have been showing great growth in their creative ideas too though. Using the jars in the classroom, we have been working on creating slab mold mugs that describe who we are! They have turned out really colorful and creative!

6th Grade: wrapped up their fruit/vegetable magazine collages, and let me tell you. Pineapples are definitely in season. The kids just cannot get enough of them! We had blueberries, corn, tomatoes, apples, oranges, etc. So much to choose from!!

7th Graders: are in their last hex of the year, and let me tell you, I am so impressed with their creative learning skills. They are given up to 5 projects in their 15 class days and they always use the time given in class to complete their project to their best ability! They start with self-portrait magazine collages, move onto learning about the Elements of Art, a drawing project, painting project, and then lastly a sculpture project. Each Hex had its more strong categories. The 1st Hex being with Drawing, the 2nd Hex with their self-portraits. I am excited to see what this 3rd hex is going to show.

Intro to Art students have been working arduously on their sculpture projects with creating life-like plaster humans, and their hard work has truthfully paid its full. Luckily, Mrs. McKenzie was gracious enough to come and support our project by telling us about her first occupation as someone who worked with women in rehab. She explained to the students that there are some people that have never been exposed to art the way that the students have been. She worked with face mask molding with the women, so I asked her if she would come and talk to the students about it to give them an idea of how art can impact others’ lives in the modern world today. During the project we had a few hiccups, but I’m proud of these students for pushing forward on it. They are on display for the whole school to see.

High Schoolers are finished with their main projects of the year and are heading into their Independent Study Project now where they are able to use what they learned in class to create three projects that show their skill. Similar to a passion project, they have the freedom to choose what their projects turn out to be (within reason and guidelines). They will be displaying their artwork during the Power Hour time frame on

May 15th to show what they have accomplished. During this study, we have a field trip that takes us to downtown Des Moines to see art murals, walking around the Papa John Sculpture Park, eating out at the big yellow arches (McDonald’s), and then heading to the art museum in Des Moines. I believe it is important to show these kids that there is art everywhere in the community and having an eye for the design will help post-school. These kids are the next generation to spread this art culture into everywhere you go. They have art all around them, and, to my delight, they are starting to see it more clearly now.

Let me just tell you a little bit about art club though. They have been troopers this whole year with the projects we have been creating. A huge thanks to Mr. Moser and Mr. Wood on giving us permission to paint the hallways/school. We definitely feel as though we have made an impact on some kids to either join in the creative fun or admire from the sidelines. We are not completely done yet, but we are almost there! Only a few more murals/paintings left.

And that’s a wrap! The first year is almost over and I look forward to another year being a part of the MStM community. I have big(ger!) plans for the next year and look forward to seeing the kids again after summer. Summer plans for me involve lots of camping with my husband and dog, working at the daycare this summer, giving my classroom a new makeover, and then traveling to Colorado for the first time for my older brother’s wedding. Oh! And making some art along the way of course. Hope to see you again in my August/September newsletter this next school year!

Until then… Stay Creative!!

Mrs. T

From the Desk of Amy Kaven, Yearbook

Gold Yearbook Sponsors

Farmers & Merchants State Bank of St. Charles-Anna Montross Pharmacy of Winterset-Stefani B.B. & P. Feed & Grain of Winterset- Stefani Gib’s A & W Indianola-Shelby City State Bank of Norwalk/Martensdale-Lexie Wiegert Disposal of Martensdale-Lexie Silver Yearbook Sponsors Madison County Chamber of Commerce-Anna Village Bootery of Winterset-Anna

From the Desk of Sara Gladson, FCCLA

On March 31st-April 2nd, MStM FCCLA participated in State Leadership Conference. The girls heard from many great speakers, attended informative workshops and competed in their STAR Events. Shelby McCasland, Kailyn DiCesare and Sophia Gibson received a Silver Ranking for their Chapter Service Project Display. Cassie Rose received a Gold Ranking for her Recycle & Redesign. Thank you for all support this year.

From the Desk of Susan Gabbert-Clark,Chorus and Randy Olson, 5th-12th Band

Results of Iowa High School Music Association Solo/Ensemble Festival Saturday, April 6, 2019 Instrumental Superior (1) Sax Ensemble - Katelyn Amfahr, Ethan Christensen, Maggie Girardi, Alisha Kauten, and Kate Puderbaugh Sax Solo – Katelyn Amfahr Sax Solo – Ethan Christensen Sax Solo – Alisha Kauten Excellent (2) Flute Solo - Anna Ohman Vocal Superior (1) Vocal Solo – Alanna Kiene Vocal Solo –Dominick DiCesare Vocal Solo – Ethan Christensen

Vocal Bass Clef Quartet – Ethan Christensen, Dominick DiCesare, Nicholas Murphy, and Steven Linn Excellent (2) Vocal Solo – Nicholas Murphy Vocal Solo – Jessica Doster Vocal Solo – Steven Linn Vocal Solo – Kaitlin Christensen Vocal Duet – Kaitlin Christensen and Dominick DiCesare Small Choir – MSTM Chorus

On Earth Day, kindergarten recycled cans that had originally came from our school kitchen, then used as flower pots in the 5th/6th grade musical, "The Music Man", and for the kindergarten and first grade concert, "The Bremen Town Musicians." Quinton DiCesare is showing off his "drum" that he made.

5th/6th Grade Honor Choir April 4, 2019

Fifth Grade: Kathryn Ballard, Samantha Couch, Shelby Gideon, Skylar Johansen, Bethany Meyer, Aubrey Moser, Karson Oberender, Nicholas Schmidt, and Suvan Volz. Sixth Grade: Ava DiCesare, Maryann Hart, Brooke Thompson, Faith Thompson, Alyvia VanGundy, Jason Fugate, Sean Gideon, Gabe Stott, Wesley Turner, and Elijah Wheeldon. Students sang songs in their designated grades as well as a combined 5/6 grade song with 260 students singing at the same time! Our own Ava DiCesare was chosen to sing a special part in the combined song! Thank you, Ava, for representing MSTM with your skills!

From the Desks of Christy Holloway and Brett Flander, 5th Grade

 Happy spring! The fifth grade has had a busy year! Since school started last August, students have studied the Number Theory, estimation, Geometry, division, exponents, negative numbers, coordinate planes, and finding area of triangles and parallelograms, and volume of prisms, in math. We will be finishing out the year learning about ratios, Algebra concepts, volume and capacity of shapes, and probability. Aside from our curriculum, students have also been navigating their way through our IXL program, and loving it! In Social Studies, we have previously discussed how America was discovered and settled, the different groups of Native Americans living here, and the origin of the thirteen colonies. We also discussed the colonization of America. The fifth grade has really enjoyed putting together their colony books and travel brochures for this unit. We are now discussing the American Revolution, which will lead to the writing of the Constitution, and then the issue of slavery leading up to the Civil War. We will finish out the year learning about how our government works, and a field trip to the state Capitol, in May! As part of our reading instruction, we have introduced the 5th graders to the different genres of Literature, to broaden their reading interests. Throughout the year, the 5th graders have also been working on their different reading strategies to build their comprehension. Students have done a nice job of getting familiar with our Journeys curriculum, and applying these strategies within small group novel studies. Our 5th grade classes also have enjoyed working together on making a MSTM brochure to go along with a trade book we read back in December. They also completed a time unit back in March, and presented a time-measuring device to display in our annual Clock Museum. Along with reading, students have also been building on their writing skills. They have been writing all types of narrative, informative, and opinion pieces. In Science, the 5th graders have learned about engineering and technology, matter, energy and matter in organisms, energy and matter in ecosystems, and systems in space. Students are currently finishing their constellation projects. We will be ending the year with Earth’s systems and human activities. Students have been working hard on many group projects in Science this year, and have really enjoyed those projects. This year has flown by, and the next month will too! Thank you students, staff, and parents for a great year!

From the Desk of Beth Grafft, Media Center

Ms. Reynold's class won the Literary Lunacy bracket with the

winning pick: Shiloh!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Martensdale Lions Club is looking for new members. Please contact a member for more

information or call 641-764-2732 or 515-238-0489. 

  

Open House for Retirees

May 15, 2019 ~ 3:30-5:30 ~ Cafeteria

Come Wish our Retirees the Best on their Retirement

John Amfahr

Vivian Butcher Sue Clark

Chuck Hilsabeck  

Attention Parents of Incoming 7th and 12th Grade Students!

I wanted to send out a reminder that, as of last year, there are a few vaccinations that are required for junior high and high school students that need to be done prior to them attending school. These immunizations are MANDATORY for students, we cannot allow grace periods for them.

Students entering the 7th grade and born after September 15, 2004, will need to have the following :

One dose of meningococcal vaccine given after age ten and before entering the seventh grade.

A Tdap booster prior to entering the seventh grade.

Students entering the 12th grade that are born after September 15, 2004, will be required to have the following:

Two doses of meningococcal vaccine (1 dose received on or after the age of 16); or 1 dose if received when the student was 16 years of age or older.

Meningitis is a very serious illness that can infect the blood, brain and spinal cord. It is spread by bacteria through upper respiratory droplet, such as saliva. About 10-15% of people who get meningococcal disease die even if given correct treatments. Up to 20% may suffer serious after effects such as hearing loss or brain damage.

Meningococcal vaccines are very safe and effective at preventing the meningococcal disease. It is about 85-100 percent effective at preventing the infection.

The Tdap booster helps to prevent the occurrence of diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis.

If you have questions regarding your child’s immunizations I would be happy to help assist you. Give me a call at 641-763-2621 or email me at school, alene_kirvin@mstm.us.

Martensdale-St Marys

May, 2019 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

15:30pm-8:00pm FFA Awards Banquet @ Elementary Gym

2 4:15pm Track-B/JH Martensdale-St Marys vs. Multiple Schools @ Martensdale-St Marys Jr Sr High School, Blue Devil Stadium 4:15pm Track-G/JH Martensdale-St Marys vs. Multiple Schools @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, Blue Devil Stadium

3 IHSMA Large Group Band/Chorus Festival

4

58:00am-8:00pm Youth Track and Field Meet@ Blue Devil Stadium

64:00pm Golf-G/Varsity Central Decatur @ Central Decatur High School 4:00pm Golf-B/Varsity Central Decatur @ Central Decatur High School 4:30pm Track-G/Varsity Martensdale-St Marys vs. Multiple Schools @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, Blue Devil Stadium 4:30pm Track-B/Varsity Nodaway Valley vs. Multiple Schools @ Nodaway Valley High School

74:00pm Golf-G/Varsity Martensdale-St Marys vs. Multiple Schools @ Martensdale-St. Marys 4:00pm Golf-B/Varsity Martensdale-St Marys vs. Multiple Schools @ Martensdale-St. Marys 5:00pm JH Solo & Ensemble Contest @ HS Gym

87:00pm Athletic Booster Club Meeting @ Media Center

9 TBD Track-G/Varsity Central Decatur @ TBD TBD Track-B/Varsity Central Decatur @ TBD

10 TBD Golf-B/Varsity TBD @ TBD

117:00pm NHS Talent Show @ Elementary Gym

128:00am-8:00pm Youth Track and Field Meet@ Blue Devil Stadium

13TBD Golf-G/Varsity TBD @ TBD 4:00pm School Board Meeting @ Central Office 7:00pm JH-HS Band & Choir Concert @ HS Gym

145:30pm PTO Meeting @ JH-HS Media Center 6:00pm-6:30pm National Honor Society Induction @ JH-HS Media Center 6:30pm Academic & Fine Arts Awards Night @ Elementary Gym

15Last School Day for Seniors

16 17 18

192:00pm Graduation Ceremony @ HS Gym

205:30pm Baseball-JV Winterset @ Winterset High School 7:30pm Baseball-Varsity Winterset @ Winterset High School

215:30pm Baseball-JV Coon Rapids Bayard @ Coon Rapids Bayard 7:30pm Baseball-Varsity Coon Rapids Bayard @ Coon Rapids Bayard

225:30pm Baseball-JV Des Moines North @ Des Moines North 7:30pm Baseball-Varsity Des Moines North@ Des Moines North

23 FFA Veterinary Science CDE FFA Awards Banquet

24 5:30pm Softball-JV Central Decatur @ Central Decatur High School 5:30pm Baseball-JV Central Decatur @ Central Decatur High School 5:30pm Softball-JV Central Decatur @ Central Decatur High School 7:30pm Softball-Varsity Central Decatur @ Central Decatur High School 7:30pm Baseball-Varsity Central Decatur @ Central Decatur High School

259:00am Softball-Varsity Ogden vs. Multiple Schools @ Ogden High School

26 27No School

285:30pm Softball-JV East Union @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, Softball Field 5:30pm Baseball-JV East Union @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, St. Marys-Baseball Field 7:30pm Baseball-Varsity East Union @ Martensdale-St. Marys 7:30pm Softball-Varsity East Union @ Martensdale-St. Marys

295:30pm Softball-JV Des Moines Christian @ Des Moines Christian School 5:30pm Baseball-JV Madrid @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, St. Marys-Baseball Field 7:30pm Baseball-Varsity Madrid @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, St. Marys-Baseball Field 7:30pm Softball-Varsity Des Moines Christian @ Des Moines Christian School

30 Last Day of School End of 2nd Semester End of 4th Quarter 7:00am-11:00am Kindergarten Graduation @ HS Gym 5:30pm Softball-JV Nodaway Valley @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, Softball Field 7:30pm Softball-Varsity Nodaway Valley @ Martensdale-St. Marys

31 TBD Softball-Varsity Murray @ Murray Professional Development Baseball-JH (Cancelled) @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, St. Marys-Baseball Field Softball-JH (Cancelled) @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, Softball Field 5:30pm Baseball-JV Nodaway Valley @ Martensdale-St. Marys Jr Sr High School, St. Marys-Baseball Field 7:30pm Baseball-Varsity Nodaway Valley@ Martensdale-St. Marys

 

MINUTES OF BOARD MEETING MARCH 11, 2019 The Board of Directors of the Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District met in regular session, pursuant to law on March 11, 2019. Members Present: President, Nicole Bunch; Vice President, Dean Furness; Ralph DiCesare, Dawn Reeves and Jennifer Parrott together with Superintendent, Tom Wood; and Business Manager, Jill Gavin. Members Absent: None I. Welcome – Board President Mrs. Bunch called meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. and welcomed all guests.

II. Consent Items A. Approval of Minutes – Board President B. Approval of Agenda – Board President C. Approval of Bills and Secretary’s Report – Board President D. Approval of Hot Lunch and Activity Reports – Board President Mr. Furness motioned to approve the consent items, seconded by Mrs. Reeves. Roll call: 5 ayes.

III. Celebrations Mr. Moser congratulated all the performers and directors of the Variety show. They were all quality acts and they put on a tight performance. He congratulated Cael Cassady for his performance and for Cole Cassady and Josh Tibbits for placing 3rd place at the State Wrestling Tournament. Shelby McCasland made it past Districts and on her way to the State level for FFA Chapter. Mr. Moser and Ms. Happe congratulated Mrs. Rose Dickinson, Mr. Folkerts, Mr. Newbury and Ms. Cally Thompson for being instrumental to our at-risk students with all sorts of needs and for keeping our kids safe and helping them be successful. Ms. Happe announced that we passed the PK desk audit and congratulated Ms. Dewaard and Mrs. Vogel for all their hard work and time. The district also passed the K-12 desk audit. Mr. Wood congratulated Ms. Happe and Mr. Moser for all their work on this project as well.

Ms. Happe thanked the kids and families for supporting the Pennies and Patients. They had a SWAG movie this past Friday and this past Saturday was the PTO Carnival. It was a huge success with a lot of fun activities and a meal. Congrats! IV. Public Comments - None V. Old Business A. Reports

1) MStM Music Booster Minutes – 2) MStM Athletic Booster Minutes – 3) MStM PTO Minutes – February 19, 2019 minutes

B. Presentations 1) Facilities Report Mr. Christensen

The priority of the maintenance crew is disinfecting rooms, wiping railings, door knobs and sinks. We have had quite a few confirmed cases of influenza.

2) Principal’s Report Ms. Happe Ms. Happe introduced Alison Crowell, Human Resource Director, to discuss the hiring season process. She broke down the applicants by gender, demographics and discussed what we are doing to retain teachers for example, job fairs, and comparability studies. She discussed building a stronger relationship with Simpson as we have hired several graduates from there. She presented a new interview rubric that has less bias and provides pros and cons on each candidate. The Administration is continuing to improve the hiring process with changes to the teacher panel, student panel, and administrative panel. Ms. Happe and Mr. Moser discussed the lesson portion of the interview process. Each candidate presents a lesson in front of six students. It is very helpful and is valuable to see how the students respond to the teacher. Ms. Happe discussed curriculum updates. The teachers are finding that they need a new writing companion for the students. They are currently studying exactly what this will look like. Ms. Happe also discussed looking for a new TLC model teacher. The 5th and 6th grade class will be presenting the Music Man on March 26 and the PTO will be bringing back the Fun Run in May.

3) Principal’s Report Mr. Moser Mr. Moser presented the Zenith Learning Experience Overview. The purpose of the learning experience is to increase student engagement in learning over the course of their secondary experience, partner with local businesses and service providers to strengthen connections to school, provide students with hands-on, real-life experiences in fields of interest, prepare students for the demands and complexity of post-secondary life and actively engage students, teachers, parents, and the community in more purposeful and directed post-secondary planning. What separates Zenith from the others is its personalized design that enables every student to explore fields of interest in depth and with support from knowledgeable and experienced people. Over the course of four years, students engage in job shadows, guided planning, college visits, guest speakers, and a minimum semester-long project or workplace experience in their field of professional interest. The overall experience will give MStM students a feel for what’s ahead of them after high school; a clear direction and pathway for how to continue their learning and growth; and the confidence to be successful in whatever they do. It will ensure MStM graduates leave our halls as their most powerful selves to be ready for what lies beyond. No two Zenith Learning Experiences will look the same – which is both a challenge and an opportunity for all involved. There are similarities, to be sure, but because each MStM student has unique talents, goals, abilities, and learning styles to consider, a single means of developing and executing such an experience is not feasible. To that end, there are four general pathways for students to determine when planning for their learning:

Capstone Project – For students whose post-secondary plans do not align with a clear or available workplace experience, the Capstone Project provides an opportunity for them to create a comprehensive project of considerable depth and complexity. Through the guidance of their Advisor, students propose, plan, execute, refine, and present their work at the conclusion of their Zenith Learning Experience.

Workplace Experience – Taking the basic tenets of the School-to-Work option, students electing to follow this pathway will participate in a job (paid or unpaid), an internship, pre-apprenticeship, or other similar format of on-site, hands-on learning. Any teacher may supervise this within their own endorsement areas. The MOC endorsement is only required if supervising outside their endorsement areas.

Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) – This is an option available to students in the MStM chapter of Future Farmers of America (FFA). The Supervised Agricultural Experience is an interdisciplinary learning experience in an ag-related field that combines elements of the Capstone Project and the Workplace Experience mentioned above.

Post-Secondary Institution Program – We currently partner with DMACC Southridge Career Academy in a number of fields where students complete dual-credit coursework in a college environment. Other local colleges and universities may also be available, depending on the student’s chosen pathway.

At any time during the course of their high school experience, students may change pathways upon proper consultation with their Advisor, the School Counselor, and the building Principal. This consultation will include a graduation credit review, planning for the new pathway, and gathering feedback for improvement. Students will not be penalized for changing pathways.

4) Superintendent’s Report Supt. Wood Mr. Wood updated the Board on the 2018-2019 School Cancellations and Make-up days. As of March 6: 6 days canceled, 3 early dismissals, and 3 late starts for a total of 44.9 hours lost. Make-up days will occur on May 28, 29, and 30; May 24 will be a full day as well. Last day for students is Thursday, May 30. Total hours, with make-up time puts us at 1,083.2. Mr. Wood discussed the MStM Vision Rewrite Process. The February 13 SIAC Meeting was first step in gathering input. Mr. Moser and Ms. Happe will conduct the same activity with their staffs. A compilation of the feedback will be created with specific vision statements written with the most common elements from all three groups. New vision statement options will be presented to the Board for approval. A similar process will be used to write a new mission statement reflective of the vision. Mr. Wood reviewed the Emergency Operations Plan. Legislation requires all districts to have a “high-quality” emergency operations plan created by next spring. We are required to work with local emergency management personnel on that plan. Feedback from Warren County Emergency Management Mr. Wood and Mrs. Gavin attended the Warren County Board Meeting to Hoover Street Bridge over I35. Warren County is recommending removing the bridge. The bridge is important to area farmers and is part of one of our bus routes. If they decide to remove the bridge all of the extra farming traffic will be moved to Highway 92. The next Warren County board meeting will be held on March 19, 2019 VI. New Business

A. Approve Publication of Proposed 2018-2019 Budget Amendment Supt. Wood Mrs. Reeves motioned to approve the publication of the proposed 2018-2019 Budget Amendment, seconded by Mr. Furness. Roll call: 5 ayes.

B. Approve Budget Guarantee Resolution for 2019-2020 Supt. Wood RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District, will levy property tax for fiscal year 2019-2020 for the regular program budget adjustment as allowed under section 257.14, Code of Iowa. Mrs. Reeves motioned to approve the Budget Guarantee Resolution for 2019-2020, seconded by Mr. DiCesare. Roll call: 5 ayes.

C. Approve Publication of Proposed 2019-2020 Budget Supt. Wood The Board agreed to publish the tax rate of 15.64 for the 2019-2020 school year. This is the amount that will be published in the Indianola Record Herald on March 27, 2019. Ms. Parrott motioned to approve the publication of the proposed 2019-2020 budget, seconded by Mrs. Reeves. Roll call: 5 ayes.

D. Consider Approval to Ratify the Negotiated Agreement with the MStM Education Association Ms. Parrott motioned to approve a 1-year contract of a total package of 2.6% for the 2019-2020 school year, seconded by Mrs. Reeves. Roll call: 5 ayes.

E. Discuss/Approve 2019-2020 Classified Staff Contracts Supt. Wood

Mr. Furness motioned to approve a 2.6% increase to the 2019-2020 Classified contracts that include custodians, secretaries, associates and food service, seconded by Mr. DiCesare. Roll call: 5 ayes.

F. Discuss/Approve 2019-2020 Administration Staff Contracts Supt. Wood Mr. DiCesare motioned to approve the 2.6% increase to principals, business manager, and superintendent, with a continued two-year contract for the principals and a continued three-year contract for the superintendent, seconded by Mrs. Reeves. Roll call: 5 ayes.

G. 1st Reading Policy Series 204, 401.6, 504.3, 504.3R1, 505.8, 505.8R1 Supt. Wood

H. Discuss/Approve Fiscal Year 2018 Audit Supt. Wood Mr Dicesare motioned to approve the Fiscal Year 2018 Audit, seconded by Mr. Furness. Roll call: 5 ayes.

I. Discuss/Approve Athletico 2019-2020 Contract Supt. Wood Mr. Furness motioned to approve the Athletico 2019-2020 contract, seconded by Mrs. Reeves. Roll call: 5 ayes.

J. Discuss/Approve Foreign Exchange Student Supt. Wood Mrs. Reeves motioned to approve the foreign exchange student for the 2019-2020 school year, seconded by Ms. Parrott. Roll call: 5 ayes.

K. Discuss/Approve Personnel Resignations Supt. Wood Mr. DiCesare motioned to approve the resignation and retirement of Mrs. Vivian Butcher, seconded by Mr. Furness. Roll call: 5 ayes.

L. Discuss/Approve Personnel Recommendations Supt. Wood Mr. DiCesare motioned to approve Andrea Benson, Head JH Girls Track coach; Wade Gibson, Head JH Baseball Coach; Trent Dooley, Volunteer Baseball Coach; Dylan Gibson as the new PK-6 PE and Special Education position for the 2019-2020 school year, seconded by Mrs. Reeves. Roll call: 5 ayes.

M. Confirm – Next Meeting Dates Supt. Wood The Board confirmed the next board meeting will be held on April 8, 2019 at 4:00 p.m.

VII. Adjournment Mrs. Reeves motioned to adjourn, seconded by Ms. Parrott. Roll call: 5 ayes. Time: 5:19 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Martensdale‐St. Marys District Newsletter is published by the last day of the preceding month. 

The newsletter is available for pickup in the Superintendent’s office, Post Office and the Jiffy station, all 

are located in Martensdale. 

You may also view it on the http://www.MStM.us website. Questions or concerns may be addressed to: 

Mrs. DePauw Martensdale‐St.Marys Elementary Office 390 Burlington Ave. 

Martensdale, Iowa  50160 or by email 

brenda_depauw@MStM.us Office:  641‐764‐2470 

Fax:  641‐764‐2100 

It  is  the  policy  of  the  Martensdale‐St.  Marys  Community 

School District not  to  illegally discriminate on  the basis of 

race,  color,  national  origin,  gender,  disability,  religion, 

creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), 

sexual  orientation,  gender  identity,  and  socioeconomic 

status  (for  programs)  in  its  educational  programs  and  its 

employment practices. 

There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of 

discrimination.    If  you  have  questions  or  a  grievance 

related  to  this  policy,  please  contact  the  district’s  Equity 

Coordinator. 

MStM’s  Equity  Coordinator  is  Josh  Moser,  secondary 

principal.    His  address  is  MStM  Community  School,  390 

Burlington, Martensdale, Iowa 50160.  His phone number is 

641‐764‐2686  and  his  email  address  is: 

josh_moser@MStM.us