GCS Arrival and Dismissal Times for 2016-17 School Year

Posted on by August 10, 2016

Goshen Community Schools Arrival and Dismissal Times
Horario de entrada y salida de clases de la Corporación Escolar de Goshen

Normal Schedule (Tues – Fri)
Horario regular (Martes a viernes)

  • Elementary/Primarias – 7:50 a.m. – 2:50 p.m.
  • GMS – 8:35 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
  • GHS – 8:25 a.m. – 3:35 p.m.

 

Late Arrival (1st day of the week – Mon or Tues after Monday holiday)
Entrada tarde (El primer día de la semana (lunes) o el martes si el lunes fuera día festivo)

  • Elementary/Primarias – 8:30.m. – 2:50 p.m.
  • GMS – 9:15 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
  • GHS – 9:05 a.m. – 3:40 p.m.

 

2-hr delay due to severe weather (1st day of the week – Mon or Tues after Monday holiday)
Demora de horario de 2 horas debido a clima severo (El primer día de la semana (lunes) o el martes si el lunes fuera día festivo)

  • Elementary/Primarias – 9:50 a.m. – 2:50 p.m.
  • GMS – 10:35 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
  • GHS – 10:25 a.m. – 3:40 p.m.

 

2-hr delay due to severe weather (Tues – Fri)
Demora de horario de 2 horas debido a clima severo (Martes a jueves)

  • Elementary/Primarias – 9:50 a.m. – 2:50 p.m.
  • GMS – 10:35 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
  • GHS – 10:25 a.m. – 3:35 p.m.

 

 

Publicación de información: Corporación Escolar de Goshen (GCS)

Posted on by November 8, 2019

Para apoyar a los profesores y al personal de la Corporación Escolar de Goshen (GCS, por sus siglas en inglés) que desean participar en el día de llamado a la acción Indiana State Teachers Association Call to Action Day, GCS cancelará clases, el martes, 19 de noviembre. El número de miembros del personal que planea asistir es lo suficientemente alto como para que nuestra corporación logre conseguir suficientes profesores suplentes para ese día, a fin de tener un día de clases seguro y productivo. Entendemos que cancelar clases crea complicaciones para nuestras familias y, por lo tanto, deseamos que todos estén al tanto de esta decisión lo antes posible. El día de compensación de clases será el viernes, 14 de febrero de 2020.

GCS agradece el apoyo de la comunidad de Goshen por la aprobación de un referéndum operativo, para ayudar a compensar la falta de fondos que GCS recibe del estado de Indiana. Sin embargo, el personal de GCS planea asistir al evento en Indianápolis para defender la educación pública del estado. Las escuelas públicas tradicionales de Indiana no han sido financiadas adecuadamente, mientras que las escuelas subvencionadas Chárter y los cupones EdChoice han experimentado un aumento en la financiación. GCS no debería tener que pedirle a la comunidad un referéndum para ayudar a pagar un mejor salario a los profesores y para mantener el tamaño de las clases a un nivel manejable, pero con las importantes pérdidas de fondos que GCS ha experimentado, no hay otra opción.

Por lo tanto, los profesores y el personal de GCS se está levantando para defender a los estudiantes, para tener grupos de tamaño razonable, profesores más calificados en los salones de clases del estado y para una mejor financiación para todas las escuelas públicas tradicionales. GCS agradece el apoyo de toda la comunidad e invita a cualquier miembro de la comunidad que esté interesado a también asistir al evento en Indianápolis el 19 de noviembre. Para recibir más información sobre el día de llamado a la acción, comuníquese con Melissa Mitchell a mmitchell@goshenschools.org , o con Hank Moore a hmoore@goshenschools.org.

GCS to Close School on Nov. 19

Posted on by November 8, 2019

In order to support GCS teachers and staff who wish to participate in the Indiana State Teachers Association Call to Action Day at the IN General Assembly Organization Day, GCS will be closed on Tuesday, November 19. The number of staff members planning to attend the Call to Action Day is high enough that GCS is unable to procure sufficient substitute teachers for the day in order to have a safe and productive day of instruction. We realize that closing school creates complications for our families and therefore we wanted all to be aware of this decision as soon as possible.  The make-up day will be on Friday, February 14, 2020.

GCS appreciates the support from the Goshen community with the passing of an operating referendum to help offset the lack of funding GCS receives from the state of Indiana. However, the GCS staff is planning to attend the event in Indianapolis to stand up for all public education in the state. Traditional public schools in Indiana have not been adequately funded, while charter schools and vouchers have seen increases in funding. GCS should not have to ask the community for a referendum in order to help pay teachers better salaries and to keep class sizes at manageable levels, but with the significant funding losses GCS has experienced, there was no choice.

Therefore, GCS teachers and staff are standing up for students, for reasonable class sizes, for more qualified teachers in the state’s classrooms, and for better funding for all traditional public schools. GCS appreciates the support of the entire community and would invite any community members who are interested, to attend the event in Indianapolis on November 19 as well. For more information on the Call to Action Day, contact Melissa Mitchell at mmitchell@goshenschools.org, or Hank Moore at hmoore@goshenschools.org.

(This information will be sent out in Spanish as well, as soon as the translation is completed.)

ETHOS Science Spooktacular Presentation and Book Signing

Posted on by October 25, 2019

Suzanne Slade- ETHOS Science Spooktacular Presentation and book signing.

Suzanne Slade, a native of Goshen, Indiana, is the award-winning author of more than 100 children’s books.  As a mechanical engineer who used to work on rockets, Suzanne shares her passion for science in many of her books.

Suzanne will have 2 presentations at the ETHOS Science Spooktacular event on Saturday, Oct. 26th.  Presentations are at noon and 1pm followed by book signings of “Astronaut Annie”.

“Astronaut Annie” was part of the “Real Men Read” and “Spring Into Reading” 2018-19 Read United programs.

*Story Time From Space video of astronaut Anne McClain reading Astronaut Annie!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3z_lpb2K8c

Come and enjoy ETHOS Innovation Center’s Science Spooktacular.

Purchase your $5 tickets now.  https://ethosinc.org/events/science-spooktacular-2019-2/

October 25th from 5:30PM – 8:00PM

October 26th from 10:00AM – 3:00PM

 

ETHOS Innovation Center

1025 N Michigan St, Elkhart, IN 46514

574-266-7149

10-9-19 GHS Gas Smell UPDATE

Posted on by October 9, 2019

The cause of the gas smell has been traced to a kitchen appliance in the Family and Consumer Science classroom. NIPSCO and maintenance have rectified the issue, and NIPSCO has given the all-clear. Students and staff will be returning to the building. Thank you to those who responded and worked to keep everyone at GHS safe!

10-9-19 Gas Smell at GHS–Staff and Students Evacuated

Posted on by October 9, 2019

There is a smell of gas at GHS this morning. For safety, the gas has been shut off at GHS. Maintenance, NIPSCO and the fire department are working to discover where the gas smell originated. All students and staff are currently evacuating the building. We will keep you posted as we learn more.

Press Release–NIET Names New 2019-20 Steering Committee and Educator Advisory Board (Including two GCS Representatives)

Posted on by October 9, 2019

NIET Names New 2019-20 Steering Committee and Educator Advisory Board  Cohorts of teachers, principals, and system leaders will share what is working to advance teaching and learning in every educational setting

Today, Dr. Candice McQueen, CEO of the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET), has announced appointments for NIET’s new Steering Committee as well as its 2019-20 Educator Advisory Board, both of which will bring together teachers and administrators from across the country to support NIET as it expands its work (including two people from Goshen schools!).
These groups will inform NIET’s work year-round to develop innovations and advance policies that have a direct impact on the classroom. The teachers, principals, and system leaders will lend their on-the-ground expertise from diverse educational backgrounds and settings to foster collaboration and further the development of support for high-quality teaching. Both groups officially kick off their work today through meetings and discussions with NIET senior staff.
“The power of our partnerships is the opportunity to collaborate, reflect, and advance together,” said NIET CEO Dr. Candice McQueen. “Learning from educators and leaders who put visions into action are central to this process and to our growth as an organization. The contributions of NIET’s Steering Committee and Educator Advisory Board will benefit hundreds of thousands of peers nationwide.”
While NIET has long had a formal advisory group of teachers and leaders informing its work, this year, NIET formed a new Steering Committee to provide strategic thinking and vision-setting to help NIET meet the needs of teachers, leaders, and students at large. The new Steering Committee consists of 14 leaders from districts, organizations, state agencies, and universities.
2019-20 Steering Committee Members
• Bob Behning, Indiana Representative and House Education Committee Chair, IN
• Dr. Kenith Britt, Dean, Marian University Klipsch Educators College, IN
• Dr. Paula Calderon, Dean, Southeastern Louisiana University College of Education, LA
• Doug Clauschee, Associate Superintendent, Chinle Unified School District, AZ
• Dr. James Gray, Chief of Schools, Jefferson Parish Schools, LA
• Dr. Saul Hinojosa, Superintendent, Somerset ISD, TX
• Dr. Tonia Howard, Chief of Leadership Development and Special Programs, Lancaster ISD, TX
• Hayward Jean, Principal, Orangeburg CSD5, SC
• Lori Line, Executive Director of Talent Development and Management, Goshen Community Schools, IN (picture and biographical information below)
• Pat Mapes, Superintendent, Perry Township Schools, IN
• Dr. David Mathis, Deputy Superintendent of College and Career Readiness, South Carolina Department of Education, SC
• Dr. Nathan Morris, Superintendent, Cross County School District, AR
• Julie Thompson, Executive Director of Elementary Education, Knox County Schools, TN
• Dr. Jennifer Tuttleton, Executive Director of Talent Pipeline, Louisiana Department of Education, LA

Lori Line

Executive Director of Talent Development and Management

Lori Line is executive director of talent development and management for Goshen Community Schools in Goshen, Indiana. She has been an elementary teacher, literacy coach, interventionist, assistant principal, master teacher, and principal during her 27 years in public education. She also served two years as a TAP regional coordinator for the state of Indiana.

During her four years as principal of West Goshen Elementary School, Lori’s school went from a C letter grade to receiving an A letter grade during her first year as principal. The school has been an “A” school for three consecutive years. In 2018, West Goshen received the prestigious NIET Founder’s Award under her leadership.

Lori has served on the NIET Educator Advisory Board, named an NIET Teach Factor Fellow, and presented at several NIET National Conferences. In June 2018, she presented at the Model School Conference in Orlando, Florida. Her presentation, “Taking Goal Setting to the Student Level,” included examples of how she, as principal, explained state data to students and set goals with each student based on that data. As a principal and district leader, her passion is planning and leading high-quality professional development that includes showing impact on student growth and achievement.

Lori earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ball State University, her principal licensure from Indiana Wesleyan University, and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. from Indiana State University in education leadership.

NIET’s 2019-20 Educator Advisory Board is made up of 12 teachers, principals, and higher education leaders who are advancing new strategies in their schools to strengthen the capacity of educators and raise achievement levels for all students. Their instructional focus and proven leadership will provide insights into how NIET’s training and support furthers their skills as educators as well as where NIET can continue to deepen its work.
2019-20 Educator Advisory Board Members
• Dr. Christopher Burkett, Gamecock EdQuarters Director, University of South Carolina College of Education, SC
• Corrie Callahan, Master Teacher, Perry Township Schools, IN
• Angela Davis, Executive Master Teacher, St. John the Baptist Parish Public Schools, LA
• Omar Duron, Principal, Gadsden, AZ
• Robert Hill, Head of School, InspireNoLA, New Orleans, LA
• Christina Jamison, Principal Fellow, Grand Prairie, TX
• Dr. Araceli Montoya, Principal, Avondale Elementary School District #44, AZ
• Lauren Moore, Master Teacher, Goshen Community Schools, IN (picture and biographical information below)
• Alex Patterson, Mentor Teacher, Jackson County, TN
• Sarah Szymanski, Math and Science Teacher and Milken Educator, Colorado Springs, CO
• Sheena Washington, Special Education Teacher and Teach Plus Fellow, Prince George’s County, MD
• Amy Whittington, Principal, Central Decatur Community School District, IA

Lauren Moore

Master TeacherWest Goshen Elementary School

Lauren Moore is master teacher at West Goshen Elementary School in Goshen, Indiana. In this role she designs and implements weekly professional development that is differentiated to meet the needs of both teachers and students at her school. Prior to becoming the master teacher, Moore taught first grade for seven years and special education for five years.

In addition to her teaching roles, Lauren served as a mentor teacher for nine of those years. This experience allowed her to take an active role in school leadership without leaving the classroom. In her role as a mentor teacher, Lauren coached teachers, assisted with professional development, and served on the school’s leadership team.

During the 2018-2019 school year, Lauren was a Teach Plus Indiana Teaching Policy Fellow. While a fellow, she worked to support HB 1008 which allows schools to apply for grant money to implement career ladder structures for educators. She learned the value of using her voice to affect change, and how to mobilize others to do the same. Lauren continues to serve as a senior fellow for Teach Plus during the 2019-2020 school year.

Over the course of her career, Lauren has continued to grow as a teacher, leader, and advocate for students and teachers. She received her Bachelor of Arts in elementary and special education from Grace College and her Master of Education in elementary education from Ball State. She is currently working on her administrative license from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Photos and biographical information about each of the Educator Advisory Board and Steering Committee members can be found on NIET’s website. In addition to today’s meetings, the groups will formally convene in the spring and summer to provide additional feedback and guidance.

About NIET For two decades, NIET has partnered with schools, districts, states, and universities to build educator excellence and give all students the opportunity for success. NIET’s initiatives including The TAP System for Teacher and Student Advancement, teacher and leader development, school improvement, rubric and observation systems, and educator preparation, have impacted more than 250,000 educators and 2.5 million students across the U.S. Learn more at http://niet.org

PRESS RELEASE–GCS Awarded a Portion of $47 Million Federal Grant Through NIET

Posted on by October 8, 2019

The National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) announced today that it has been awarded a five-year, $47 million grant from the federal Teacher and School Leader (TSL) Incentive Program to expand and sustain work to support teachers and improve students’ academic success in three Indiana school districts: Perry Township Schools, Goshen Community Schools, and Brown County Schools.

“Our partnerships across Indiana and nationally show that when teachers and principals lead schools with a focus on excellence, reflection, and collaboration, students excel,” said NIET CEO Dr. Candice McQueen. “This grant is a win for educators and students and will create a lasting impact in these school communities. We look forward to deepening the work in Perry, Goshen, and Brown and building on their progress to strengthen teaching and learning in every classroom every day.”

Specifically, the grant will support the implementation of the TAP System for Teacher and Student Advancement across the districts’ combined 32 K-12 schools, serving more than 25,000 students, 1,500 teachers, and 80 school leaders. TAP helps build educators’ effectiveness and enables schools to develop teachers as instructional leaders, plan weekly professional learning tailored to individual needs of teachers and students, create a shared vision for improving teacher practice and student achievement, and implement strategic compensation systems. TAP has shown success in schools in Indiana and across the country with closing achievement gaps, increasing student achievement, improving teacher retention, and strengthening teachers’ abilities.

Additionally, the grant opportunity will support all students’ equitable access to excellent teachers and work to increase the percentage of teachers of color. NIET and the districts are committed to this opportunity as evidenced by the 61 letters of support provided from national, district, school, and community groups who see this opportunity to transform educational opportunities for every student.

“Effective teachers are crucial to student performance and academic success,” said Patrick W. Mapes, Perry Township Schools superintendent. “We are thankful for this grant which will give us the opportunity to recruit, retain, and reward highly effective teachers who are responsible for driving positive student outcomes.”

NIET has collaborated with Perry Township Schools and Goshen Community Schools since 2010 to help strengthen instructional practices, attract and retain effective teachers in high-need schools, and close achievement gaps. Currently, Perry Township implements the NIET blueprint for TAP across the district and uses NIET’s instructional rubric districtwide to support the academic growth of more than 16,700 students. The TSL grant will help Perry Township, recipient of NIET’s 2018 District Award of Excellence for Educator Effectiveness, give stipends for the first time to the teachers who effectively help facilitate the TAP framework.

In Goshen Community Schools, the TSL grant will deepen and sustain the TAP System in its nine traditional schools serving 6,600 students. Goshen leaders first sought a partnership with NIET to meet the needs of their distinct student population and strengthen their local economy. Goshen has established teacher leader roles in each school, and this grant will help to expand and increase those opportunities, so classroom teachers have the opportunity to grow in their career. Teacher leaders work with administrators to set goals as well as mentor and support teachers through regular professional development, feedback loops, and coaching in classrooms.

“Goshen leaders are excited about this grant to further the excellent teaching in every classroom in order for all Goshen students to be able to achieve their dreams,” said Goshen Superintendent Dr. Diane Woodworth.

Brown County Schools is a new NIET partner and started incorporating the School Improvement Solutions model during 2018-19 to establish a “profound focus on advancing student achievement,” according to Superintendent Dr. Laura Hammack. The TSL grant will intensify this focus with TAP implementation in Brown County’s six schools that include 1,800 students, with more than half eligible for free or reduced-price lunch.

“Brown County Schools is thrilled to be a partner with the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching as a recipient of the Teacher and School Leader Incentive Program grant,” Dr. Hammack said. “As a small and rural school district, this grant will add significant value to the experience of teaching and learning. By deploying a system that develops and rewards our talented teachers and leaders, we are better positioned to attract and retain high-quality educators while simultaneously increasing student achievement. We know that the single greatest impact on student achievement is a high-quality educator. These grant resources ensure a systemic process for teacher leadership and professional practice. We are honored to be a partner and look forward to great things to come.”

##################

About Perry Township Schools Perry Township Schools is the state’s second fastest-growing district. That growth has been due in part to an increasing number of refugees—primarily from Burma—who have made the district their home over the last five years. At 31%, Perry Township has the highest percentage of English Language Learners for a district of its size. The district has also had an increase in the percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price lunch, from 61% in 2013-14 to 71% in 2018-19. Perry Township has effectively closed the achievement gap with Indiana on the state assessment, and the WorldClass Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) showed that reading was the largest area of growth in 201819. In fact, 39 percent of English Language Learners scored at the highest proficiency level (Level 5) in reading, the strongest predictor of literacy. As a district, reading proficiency is an average of 4 – up from 3.7.

About Goshen Community Schools Goshen, which also has a large number of English Language Learners, has kept a focus on closing the achievement gap, earning a B rating in 2017-18. At 2018 NIET Founder’s Award Recipient West Goshen Elementary, where 76% of students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch and 42% are English Language Learners, the school improved from a D to a B, then to an A in 2015-16, and has maintained the A rating for three consecutive years.

About Brown County Schools Brown County Schools has held a B state rating for three consecutive years but has faced the challenge of recruiting top talent and substantially raising student achievement above state averages – two issues TAP is designed to support. Furthermore, the unification and positive school culture that TAP fosters will support Brown’s continuing efforts to serve students and their families in a community affected by the opioid addiction epidemic.

About NIET For two decades, NIET has partnered with schools, districts, states, and universities to build educator excellence and give all students the opportunity for success. NIET’s initiatives, including TAP, teacher and leader development, school improvement, rubric and observation systems, and educator preparation, have impacted more than 250,000 educators and 2.5 million students across the U.S. Learn more at niet.org.

GCS Hiring Event for Substitute Teachers

Posted on by October 3, 2019

Goshen Community Schools will host a Hiring Events for Substitute Teachers on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 from 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The Hiring Event will be held at the Administration Center located at 613 E. Purl St. Goshen, IN.

PLEASE START EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION PRIOR TO ATTENDING THE MEETING: Go to http://www.willsub.com

  • Click on the “Applicants” tab
  • Start new Application to begin (you will need an email address)
  • Complete ALL video trainings in application prior to the meeting
  • Bring these items with you to the meeting:
    • Copy of “Official” College Transcripts or Teaching License/sub permit
    • I9 verification (which can include a Passport or Driver’s License and Social Security Card or Driver’s License and Birth Certificate)

Requirement for Substitute Teachers:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must possess a High School Diploma
  • Must be able to pass a Background Check

Additional Message re: EEE from Elk. Co. Health Dept. (English/Spanish)

Posted on by October 2, 2019

REMINDER FROM THE ELKHART COUNTY HEALTH OFFICER:

The County Commissioners have declared a county-wide emergency this morning in regard to the increasing risk of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) to human life. The virus is spread by a type of mosquito that bites at dusk and dawn especially. We are grateful so many schools are taking precautions with after-school activities that occur during these times! We all want students to be safe from preventable disease!

PLEASE NOTE due to the biting habits of the mosquito involved, ROUTINE DAYTIME ACTIVITIES WILL NOT PUT STUDENTS AT INCREASED RISK. The only daytime activities that would be of increased risk are those involving trips to marshes or bogs. Students should be able to continue routine daytime activities as long as they are concluded before dusk.

PLEASE continue to offer and encourage students to wear mosquito repellent when outside, especially between dusk and dawn, until we have a freeze.

Thank you for your attention to this. If you have any questions, please call. We want to be sure you have all the information you need to make wise decisions concerning the students in your care.

Lydia Mertz, MD Elkhart County Health Officer

RECORDATORIO DEL OFICIAL DE SALUD DEL CONDADO DE ELKHART:

Esta mañana, los comisionados del condado declararon un estado de emergencia en todo el condado con respecto al riesgo creciente de encefalitis equina oriental (EEE, por sus siglas en inglés) para la vida humana. El virus se transmite por un tipo de mosquito que pica especialmente al anochecer y al amanecer. ¡Estamos agradecidos de que muchas escuelas estén tomando precauciones con las actividades extracurriculares que ocurren durante estos momentos! ¡Todos queremos que los estudiantes estén a salvo de esta evitable enfermedad!

TENGA EN CUENTA que, debido a los hábitos de picadura del mosquito involucrado, LAS ACTIVIDADES DE RUTINA DIARIAS NO PONDRÁN A LOS ESTUDIANTES EN MAYOR RIESGO. Las únicas actividades diurnas que serían de mayor riesgo son aquellas que involucren viajes a pantanos o ciénagas. Los estudiantes deben poder continuar con las actividades rutinarias durante el día, siempre que concluyan antes del anochecer.

POR FAVOR continúe ofreciendo y alentando a los estudiantes a usar repelente de mosquitos cuando estén afuera, especialmente entre el anochecer y el amanecer, hasta que caiga la primera helada.

Gracias por su atención. Si tiene alguna pregunta, por favor llame. Queremos asegurarnos de que tenga toda la información que necesita para tomar decisiones acertadas con respecto a los estudiantes bajo su cuidado.

Lydia Mertz, MD

Oficial de salud del condado de Elkhart

 

UPDATED Information Re: EEE (English & Spanish)

Posted on by October 2, 2019

The Elkhart County Health Department and the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) have been working together to monitor eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) activity in Elkhart County. So far in 2019, a total of eight horses have tested positive for EEE, along with one mosquito sample pool in Elkhart County.

Due to the detection of EEE activity in Elkhart County and the occurrence of human EEE cases in nearby Michigan counties, the Elkhart County Commissioners have decided to perform targeted mosquito control utilizing aerial spraying to help protect residents from EEE. While rare, EEE virus can cause serious illness and has a fatality rate of about 33 percent in people.

The horse cases are concentrated south of Bristol and west of Middlebury in an area often referred to as the “fruit hills.” The positive mosquito pool was located in the northwest quadrant of the county near Boot Lake. These areas include numerous freshwater, hardwood swamp and bog areas and will be targeted with aerial spraying.

Mosquito control professionals will apply an approved pesticide, Dibrom, as an ultra-low volume (ULV) spray. ULV sprayers dispense very fine aerosol droplets that stay suspended in the air and kill adult mosquitoes on contact. This is a tactic other states, including Michigan, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, have recently employed to combat EEE. Dibrom has been registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since 1959 for use in the United States. Dibrom immediately begins to break down upon release of the spray droplets in the open air and breaks down rapidly in water and in sunlight.

The decision to implement the additional control measure was made by the County Commissioners in consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ISDH, Elkhart County Health Department, Purdue University Ag Extension office, and Emergency Management. Protecting the public health is the primary goal of the decision.

County officials are targeting Wednesday October 2, at dusk, for the application. Thursday October 3 is the backup application date if weather prevents the Wednesday application. Residents should take actions to protect ornamental fish ponds and bee hives. Organic farms registered on Field Watch will not be sprayed. If an organic farm operation is not registered with Field Watch, contact Jeff Burbrink at Purdue University Extension, Goshen, 574-533-0554, by Tuesday afternoon.

While the spraying is expected to kill 90 percent of mosquitoes, Elkhart County residents are urged to continue to take precautions until the first hard freeze, including:

  • Avoiding areas where mosquitoes breed,
  • Staying indoors when mosquitoes are active,
  • Utilizing an EPA-registered insect repellent; and
  • Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants in areas of high mosquito activity.

In addition, residents are urged to check their property for mosquito breeding sites and take the following actions:

  • Empty containers that are holding water,
  • Unclog gutters,
  • Keep overgrown vegetation mowed,
  • Dispose of old tires and
  • Maintain screens in doorways and windows.
  • Swimming pools should be maintained clean and operational;
  • Ornamental ponds should be aerated to prevent the collection of mosquito larvae.

El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Elkhart y el Departamento de Salud del Estado de Indiana (ISDH, por sus siglas en inglés) han estado colaborando para monitorear la actividad de encefalitis equina oriental (EEE, por sus siglas en inglés) en el Condado de Elkhart. En lo que va de 2019, un total de ocho caballos han dado positivo en EEE, junto con un grupo de muestras de mosquitos en el Condado de Elkhart.

Debido a que se ha detectado actividad de la EEE en el Condado de Elkhart y a la aparición de casos de la EEE en humanos en los condados cercanos a Michigan, los comisionados del Condado de Elkhart han decidido realizar un control selectivo de mosquitos mediante la fumigación aérea, para ayudar a proteger a los residentes de la EEE. Si bien es raro, el virus de la EEE puede causar enfermedades graves, y tiene una tasa de mortalidad de alrededor del 33% en las personas.

Los casos de caballos se concentran al sur de Bristol y al oeste de Middlebury en un área a menudo conocida como fruit hills (las colinas de la fruta). El grupo de muestras positivas de mosquitos se encuentra en el cuadrante noroeste del condado cerca de Boot Lake. Estas áreas incluyen numerosos sitios de agua dulce, pantanos de madera dura y áreas pantanosas y serán atacadas con fumigación aérea.

Los profesionales de control de mosquitos aplicarán el pesticida aprobado, Dibrom, en forma de aerosol de volumen ultra bajo (ULV). Los pulverizadores ULV dispensan gotitas de aerosol muy finas que permanecen suspendidas en el aire y matan a los mosquitos adultos al contacto. Ésta es una táctica que otros estados, como Michigan, Massachusetts y Rhode Island, han empleado recientemente para combatir la EEE. Dibrom ha sido registrado por la Agencia de Protección Ambiental (EPA, por sus siglas en inglés) de EE. UU. desde 1959 para su uso en los Estados Unidos. Dibrom comienza a descomponerse inmediatamente al soltar las gotas de pulverización al aire libre y se descompone rápidamente en agua y con la luz solar.

Los comisionados del condado tomaron la decisión de implementar medidas de control adicional en consulta con los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, por sus siglas en inglés), la ISDH, el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Elkhart, la oficina de Extensión Ag de la Universidad de Purdue y del manejo de emergencias. Proteger la salud pública es el objetivo principal de esta decisión.

Los funcionarios del condado tienen como objetivo la aplicación, este miércoles, 2 de octubre, al anochecer. El jueves, 3 de octubre, es la fecha de la aplicación en caso de que el clima impidiera dicha aplicación el miércoles. Los residentes deben tomar medidas para proteger los estanques de peces ornamentales y las colmenas de abejas. Las granjas orgánicas registradas en Field Watch no serán rociadas. Si alguna granja orgánica no está registrada con Field Watch, comuníquese con Jeff Burbrink a la extensión de la Universidad de Purdue, Goshen, 574-533-0554, el martes por la tarde.

Si bien se espera que la fumigación mate al 90% de los mosquitos, se insta a los residentes del Condado de Elkhart a seguir tomando precauciones hasta la primera helada fuerte, que incluye:

  • Evitar las áreas donde se reproducen los mosquitos
  • Quedarse adentro cuando los mosquitos estén activos
  • Utilizar un repelente de insectos registrado por la EPA
  • Usar camisas y pantalones de manga larga en áreas de alta actividad de mosquitos

Además, se insta a los residentes a verificar su propiedad para detectar sitios de reproducción de mosquitos y tomar las siguientes medidas:

  • Vaciar contenedores que contienen agua
  • Desatascar las canaletas
  • Mantener la vegetación cortada
  • Desechar las llantas viejas
  • Mantener mosquiteros en puertas y ventanas
  • Mantener las piscinas limpias y funcionando
  • Airear los estanques ornamentales para evitar la recolección de larvas de mosquito

IMPORTANT INFORMATION/INFORMACIÓN IMPORTANTE

Posted on by September 27, 2019

INFORMACIÓN IMPORTANTE

Los estudiantes deben llevar y “utilizar un repelente de insectos EPA-registered que contenga DEET, picaridin, IR3535, aceite de eucaliptus limón (lemon eucaliptus) o para-menthane-diol tanto en la ropa como en la piel expuesta”

Los estudiantes necesitan “cubrirse la piel expuesta con un sombrero, manga y pantalones largos, en lugares donde los mosquitos están especialmente activos, tales como en las zonas boscosas”

La Corporación Escolar de Goshen tendrá algo de repelente de insectos disponible, para que en caso de que un estudiante no traiga el suyo se lo aplique.

Los padres de familia tienen la opción de no permitir que su hijo haga esta actividad. Se le dejará trabajo escolar alternativo.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Students need to bring and “Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on clothes and exposed skin”

Students need to “Cover exposed skin by wearing a hat, long sleeves and long pants in places where mosquitoes are especially active, such as wooded areas”

Goshen Community Schools will have some insect repellent available for your student to apply if they do not bring their own.

Parents have the option of having their student opt out of the assignment.  An alternative assignment will be given

9-27-19 IMPORTANT Information from the Elkhart County Health Department

Posted on by September 27, 2019

From the Elkhart County Health Department:

The Elkhart County Health Department (ECHD) is renewing an earlier warning regarding the threat of mosquito borne illnesses. ECHD has received notice from the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) that one mosquito sample pool has tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and four horses have tested positive for EEE in Elkhart County in addition to several positive pools of West Nile Virus (WNV). The presence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Elkhart County is not unexpected considering our proximity to some of the Michigan counties that have had both animal and human cases of EEE.

Although there is a vaccination available for horses there is not one available for humans. Thus, it is imperative that Elkhart County residents be vigilant to protect themselves from mosquitoes. The kind of mosquitoes that spread EEE typically breed in bog and hardwood swamp wetlands. Mosquitoes will remain active at temperatures above 60 degrees F and tend to be more active in the evening and pre-dawn hours.

Precautions people need to take include:

  • avoiding areas where mosquitoes breed,
  • staying indoors when mosquitoes are active,
  • utilizing an EPA registered insect repellent and
  • wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants in areas of high mosquito activity.

Be vigilant and remember to check your property for mosquito breeding sites:

  • empty containers that are holding water,
  • unclog gutters,
  • keep overgrown vegetation mowed,
  • dispose of old tires and
  • maintain screens in doorways and windows,
  • swimming pools should be maintained, clean and operational;
  • ornamental ponds should be aerated to prevent the collection of mosquito larvae.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis can be seen in the late summer while West Nile Virus transmission tends to be higher in the early fall. This in part is due to amplification of the disease in the various wildlife reservoirs. It is not uncommon for people to become infected even when mosquito activity seems to be nonexistent. Precautions need to be taken now to prevent serious illness and needless loss of life.

 

 

“Parents and Adult Fans: The Biggest Challenge Facing High  School Sports Today”

Posted on by September 5, 2019

Parents and Adult Fans: The Biggest Challenge Facing High School Sports Today (Op-Ed Column)

By Karissa Niehoff, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations and Bobby Cox, Commissioner of the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA).

Inappropriate adult behavior at high school athletic events in Indiana has reached epidemic proportion.    

When more than 2,000 high school athletic directors were asked in a recent national survey what they like least about their job, 62.3% said it was “dealing with aggressive parents and adult fans.”   

And the men and women who wear the black and white stripes agree. In fact, almost 80% of officials quit after the first two years on the job, and unruly parents are cited as the reason why. As a result,  there is a growing shortage of high school officials here in Indiana, and in some sports like wrestling,  swimming, and track and field, the shortage is severe. No officials means no more games.  

If you are a parent attending a high school athletic event this fall, you can help by following these six guidelines:

1. Act Your Age. You are, after all, an adult. Act in a way that makes your family and school proud.

2. Don’t Live Your Life Vicariously Through Your Children. High school sports are for them, not you. Your family’s reputation is not determined by how well your children perform on the field of play.

3. Let Your Children Talk to the Coach Instead of You Doing It for Them. High school athletes learn how to become more confident, independent and capable—but only when their parents don’t jump in and solve their problems for them.

4. Stay in Your Own Lane. No coaching or officiating from the sidelines. Your role is to be a responsible, supportive parent—not a coach or official.

5. Remember, Participating in a High School Sport Is Not About Getting a College Scholarship.  According to the NCAA, only about 2% of all high school athletes are awarded a sports  scholarship, and the total value of the scholarship is only about $18,000.

6. Make Sure Your Children Know You Love Watching Them Play. Do not critique your child’s performance on the car ride home. Participating in high school sports is about character development, learning and having fun—not winning and losing.

Purchasing a ticket to a high school athletic event does not give you the right to be rude, disrespectful  or verbally abusive. Cheer loud and be proud, but be responsible and respectful. The future of high  school sports in Indiana is dependent on you.   

Goshen Community Schools appreciates the many students, parents, and families who attend athletic events as GHS and GMS fans. We encourage our fans to abide by the guidelines provided above. We also encourage those who may have participated in a high school sport and/or know the rules well to consider becoming a high school official, as officials are so desperately needed! Go Big Red!!

Comunicado de prensa conjunto-Comisión de Relaciones Comunitarias y Escuelas Comunitarias de Goshen

Posted on by August 15, 2019

GOSHEN, Ind. (agosto 15, 2019)—Después de una exitosa conversación comunitaria piloto en la primavera, la Comisión de Relaciones Comunitarias de Goshen (CRC) y las Escuelas Comunitarias de Goshen (GCS) se embarcarán en una serie de eventos en los próximos meses que alentarán el discurso sobre temas que afectan exclusivamente a los residentes de Goshen.

Una serie de tres conversaciones comunitarias, todas abiertas al público, se llevarán a cabo en varios lugares de la ciudad este otoño, cada una abordando un tema diferente que surgió de los miembros participantes en una conversación piloto en abril. La serie de conversaciones se llama “Creciendo Goshen Juntos” (CGJ).

Jes Stoltzfus Buller, una facilitadora experta con experiencia significativa en el diálogo colaborativo, será la anfitriona de las conversaciones en formato World Café. Este método de discusión de mesa redonda en grupos pequeños ofrece un ambiente íntimo que invita a la curiosidad y ayuda a construir relaciones, brindando a todos los participantes la oportunidad de hablar.

Se ofrecerá interpretación en cada mesa entre inglés y español, para que los participantes puedan compartir en el idioma que les resulte más cómodo. Toda la información y comentarios introductorios también se proporcionarán en inglés y español.

Después de cada conversación, la facilitadora escribirá un informe basado en notas y comentarios de la mesa, y encuestas posteriores al evento. El informe incluirá los aspectos más destacados de la conversación sobre los temas que surgieron, así como ideas o recomendaciones.

La información servirá para vigorizar la creación de un plan de acción en cada área. Representantes de CRC, GCS y la Ciudad de Goshen crearán un equipo de acción central y para cada conversación/tema, los participantes de la conversación y las partes interesadas clave serán invitados a unirse. Este equipo evaluará el informe y elaborará los próximos pasos y planes de seguimiento concretos.

“Goshen es esa comunidad rara donde no solo decimos que adoptamos la diversidad, sino que vivimos los valores de aceptación, aprecio y celebración de la diversidad todos los días”, dijo Steve Hope, superintendente adjunto de GCS y miembro del comité de la serie GGT. “También central para la misión de Goshen Community Schools, nos complace asociarnos con la Comisión de Relaciones Comunitarias de la ciudad para apoyar esta serie de conversaciones comunitarias. En el corazón de cualquier comunidad vibrante y económicamente fuerte es un sistema escolar fuerte. A través de cada conversación, las Escuelas Comunitarias de Goshen también aprenden y crecen y están en mejores condiciones de apoyar a todos y cada uno de nuestros estudiantes “.

CRC y GCS comenzaron conversaciones en 2018 para intercambiar ideas sobre la posibilidad de construir puentes entre diversos grupos de la comunidad. Al reconocer la diversidad de todo tipo en toda la ciudad, vieron una oportunidad para promover la tolerancia, la comprensión y la gratitud para todas las personas. Esto llevó a una conversación comunitaria piloto, Creciendo Goshen Juntos, el 25 de abril de 2019, celebrada en Goshen High School. Las respuestas de ese evento pidieron más conversaciones. A través de conversaciones continuas sobre los problemas que enfrenta la comunidad de Goshen, CRC y GCS esperan continuar fomentando las relaciones en toda la comunidad de Goshen.

La siguiente información ofrece detalles sobre la próxima serie de conversaciones de otoño. Se está preparando una posible serie para la primavera, pendiente de aprobación por parte del CRC.

Una cultura que aprende: Nuestras escuelas y la comunidad juntas • 26 de septiembre de 2019 • 6–8 p.m. • Boys and Girls Club

Resumen: Esta conversación ofrecerá la oportunidad de aprender de las escuelas de la comunidad, que albergan la diversidad encarnada en Goshen, que se vive en la práctica todos los días. La conversación se centrará en lo que está yendo bien en nuestras escuelas y dónde se necesita crecimiento. ¿Cómo pueden nuestras escuelas servir mejor a las familias en Goshen y cuál es su papel en la comunidad en general?

Cómo crece Goshen: Equilibrando el poder y levantando líderes • 24 de octubre de 2019 • 6–8 p.m. • Parque Shanklin, Pabellón Schrock

Resumen: Esta conversación abordará el liderazgo y el poder en la comunidad de Goshen. Los participantes tendrán la oportunidad de hablar sobre equilibrios exitosos de poder y cómo se crea, así como también ver los desafíos para un poder igualado. ¿Cómo se accede al poder y cómo aumenta la comunidad la capacidad y el liderazgo para brindar oportunidades de poder compartido?

Quién es Goshen: Contando nuestras historias • 14 de noviembre de 2019 • 6–8 p.m. • Boys and Girls Club

Resumen: Esta conversación proporcionará espacio para conocer a otros en la comunidad escuchando y compartiendo sobre la identidad y las experiencias que dan forma a cada persona. ¿Cómo han moldeado nuestras experiencias nuestros valores? Unir las divisiones requiere conocerse los unos a los otros: ¿podemos aprender a conocernos y pasar de extraños a amigos?

PASSING A STOPPED SCHOOL BUS IS AGAINST THE LAW! (English/Spanish)

Posted on by August 7, 2019

August 7, 2019: Joint Press Release-Goshen Community Schools/Goshen Police Department

PASSING A STOPPED SCHOOL BUS IS AGAINST THE LAW!          

Students are heading back to school, which means people will be seeing school buses on our roads again. Indiana State Police (ISP) have reminded everyone about the importance of watching for stopping school buses while they are picking up and dropping off students. Do you know when to stop for a school bus? ISP created a helpful graphic (below) to make sure everyone is safe on their commute.

Two-Lane Roadways: If a school bus stops on a two-lane road and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, all motorists MUST stop.

Multi-Lane Roadways with NO Barrier between Lanes: When a school bus stops on a multi-lane roadway without a barrier and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, all motorists MUST stop.

Multi-Lane Roadway with a Grassy and/or Concrete Barrier: When a school bus stops and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, only vehicles behind the bus MUST stop. Vehicles that are approaching from the opposite side are NOT required to stop.

Senate Enrolled Act No. 2 Bill increases penalties for violating a stop arm from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor. Additionally, penalties are raised from a Class A misdemeanor to a Level 6 felony for a stop-arm runner if the action results in injury, and to a Level 5 felony if the action results in death. The court may also suspend the motorist’s driving privileges for 90 days for a first offense, or, if the motorist has committed at least one previous school bus passing offense, for one year. Other requirements include:

•    School bus drivers deploying flashing warning lights and a stop arm when loading and unloading students.
•    Schools reviewing bus routes and safety policies.
•    The state Department of Education posting on its website school bus safety guidelines and how to petition to reduce maximum speed limits in areas where students are boarding or exiting school buses.
•    With some exceptions, prohibiting bus drivers from loading or unloading students at a location where they would need to cross a roadway, unless there are no other safe alternatives.

7 de agosto, 2019: Comunicado de prensa conjunto—Escuelas comunitarias de Goshen/Departamento de Policía de Goshen

 ¡PASAR UN AUTOBÚS ESCOLAR PARADO ES CONTRA LA LEY!

Los estudiantes regresan a la escuela esta semana, lo que significa que la gente volverá a ver los autobuses escolares en nuestras carreteras. La Policía del Estado de Indiana (ISP) le ha recordado a la comunidad la importancia de vigilar la parada de los autobuses escolares mientras recogen y dejan a los estudiantes. ¿Sabes cuándo parar si ves un autobús escolar? ISP creó un gráfico útil (a continuación) para asegurarse de que todos estén seguros en su viaje.

Carreteras de dos carriles: Si un autobús escolar se detiene en una carretera de dos carriles y las luces intermitentes rojas se activan y el brazo de detención se extiende, todos los automovilistas DEBEN detenerse.

Carreteras de carriles múltiples sin barrera entre carriles: Cuando un autobús escolar se detiene en una carretera de varios carriles sin barrera y las luces intermitentes rojas se activan y el brazo de detención se extiende, todos los automovilistas DEBEN detenerse.

Carretera de carriles múltiples con una barrera de césped y/o concreto: Cuando un autobús escolar se detiene y las luces rojas intermitentes se activan y el brazo de detención se extiende, solo los vehículos detrás del autobús DEBEN detenerse. NO se requiere que los vehículos que se aproximan desde el lado opuesto se detengan.

El acto inscrito Nº 2 del Senado aumenta las sanciones por violar un brazo de detención de un delito menor de Clase B a un delito menor de Clase A. Además, las penalizaciones se elevan de un delito menor de Clase A, a un delito grave de Nivel 6 para quien se pase un brazo de detención si la acción resulta en una lesión, y a un delito grave de Nivel 5 si la acción resulta en la muerte. La corte también puede suspender los privilegios de conducir del automovilista durante 90 días por una primera infracción o, si el automovilista ha cometido al menos una infracción previa por pasar del autobús escolar, durante un año. Otros requisitos incluyen:

  • Los conductores de autobuses escolares que despliegan luces intermitentes de advertencia y un brazo de detención cuando cargan y descargan estudiantes.
  • Escuelas que revisan rutas de autobuses y políticas de seguridad.
  • El Departamento de Educación del estado que publica en su sitio web las pautas de seguridad del autobús escolar y cómo solicitar la reducción de los límites de velocidad máxima en las áreas donde los estudiantes abordan o salen de los autobuses escolares.
  • Con algunas excepciones, prohibir que los conductores de autobuses carguen o descarguen estudiantes en un lugar donde tendrían que cruzar una carretera, a menos que no haya otras alternativas seguras.

CareerWise Youth Apprenticeship Signing Day-August 2nd

Posted on by August 1, 2019

CareerWise Elkhart County is a Business-Led, Student-Centered Apprenticeship Program for high school students.

The public is invited to the press event for the Modern Youth Apprentice “Student Signing Day” on Friday, August 2 at 11:15 a.m. at Ivy Tech Community College, 22531 CR 18, Goshen, 46528 in the Community Room.

Along with a brief overview of CareerWise Elkhart County, attendees will hear from students and their employers. Students will sign a three-year commitment that includes high school credit, college credit, industry certifications and paid employment.

“Horizon Education Alliance (HEA) is pleased to support this collaboration between key businesses and all seven public school districts in Elkhart County”, said Brian Wiebe, HEA’s President. Beginning this school year, apprentices will be trained in modern occupations within the defined career pathways of business operations, advanced manufacturing, and information technology.

Employers participating in the apprenticeship program include DJ Construction, MapleTronics Computers, Goshen Health, Adorn Hardwoods, Interior Components, Kem Krest, Robert Weed Corp, Goshen Stamping, MapleNet Wireless, and Horizon Education Alliance. Additional businesses in Elkhart County have posted positions and will be hiring students by September 1.

“HEA has helped cultivate a system that has enabled implementation of youth apprenticeships in our county across all seven school districts starting with high school juniors. The CareerWise model is a global best-practice and a transformative learning opportunity and we are excited to collaborate with all of our partners to impact our youth”, said Jason Harrison, Vice President of Student and Adult Pathways.

“We just had Josh Belmont in for a tour and to meet Wes [Herschberger, MapleTronics CEO] and the rest of the team. We are excited to work with him in the coming years.” – Rich Troyer, MapleTronics Computers

“When I was in high school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I only knew it would be in business. I chose HR, having no idea what that meant. I didn’t enter an HR role until 20 years later. For me, I lucked out. How much better it would have been to have had a program like this. Now we do, thanks to all the work that has been done in our region to link industry and education.” – Cindy Grider, Robert Weed Corporation

The Student Signing Day event concludes the second day of the apprentices’ workplace boot camp— CareerWise’s training that prepares students for a professional workplace. The boot camp covers everything from executive-function skills like organization and task prioritization to the soft skills of working in teams, managing conflict and following employer dress codes.

“HEA is grateful to the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, whose support has been critical for our ability to launch this student apprenticeship initiative”, said Wiebe. “Beginning with our research trip to Germany and Switzerland in 2018, which involved county, regional and state leaders, we immediately understood the win-win nature of apprenticeships for both businesses and for high school students.”

CareerWise Elkhart County is based on the CareerWise Colorado model, which launched in 2016, and was based on best practices learned from their state’s trip to Switzerland in 2015. “We’re very pleased that along with New York City, Elkhart County is one of two spots in the nation that is being given the opportunity to launch CareerWise in the first phase of a national buildout”, said Harrison.

Recruitment of businesses interested in hiring youth apprentices is ongoing, and student recruitment for the 2020 cohort will begin this winter. If you are interested in becoming involved with CareerWise Elkhart County, please contact Breanna Allen, HEA Pathways Director, at ballen@heaindiana.org. For more information about how Elkhart County is designing a scalable, countywide modern youth apprenticeship system for students and industry, visit CareerWise Elkhart County.

About Horizon Education Alliance
HEA is a non-profit organization created by Elkhart County education and business leaders. By engaging individuals from multiple sectors throughout the community, HEA supports the educational success of all residents. In doing so, HEA believes Elkhart County can be a world-class community. HEA engages a model of “innovation through collaboration” by creating and sustaining strong partnerships, identifying and assisting in the implementation of evidence-based practices, and monitoring and evaluating progress toward community-level goals.

 

NEW GHS Traffic Flow

Posted on by July 25, 2019

GHS Students and Parents, please note that there are new traffic patterns in the GHS parking lot.

If you enter GHS from Purl Street, you will follow the bottom set of red arrows.  You will exit back onto Purl Street.

If you enter GHS from Madison Street, you will be directed to turn right as soon as you enter the parking lot and follow the top set of red arrows.  You will loop around and exit back onto Madison Street where you can only turn right.

The 10th Street area marked in yellow is for bus pickup and drop off.  Students who ride the bus will use the center pathway to safely walk to and from their bus.  Please note that if you park on 10th Street, you will be blocked in after school until the buses leave.  Also, remember that 10th Street is one way traffic only, going northbound. 

Madison Street

Purl Street

GHS French Trip

Posted on by June 19, 2019

Pictures from the 2019 GHS French Trip:

 

Eleven people traveled to France after graduation, GHS French teachers Jason Hobbs and Dru Mack, eight students and a parent chaperone. They spent 10 days in France, split between two cities, Paris and Blois. According to Ms. Mack, the students did a great job communicating in the target language and enjoyed experiencing the culture and seeing/learning about the history of France. The group got home on Tuesday, June 18th, safe and sound!

WNIT to Offer New PBS Kids Channel (info. links in this post)

Posted on by June 18, 2019

WNIT is all set to offer a new service on their station, which will help prepare future students for kindergarten! At 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 24th, WNIT will launch their 3rd channel, the 24/7 PBS Kids Channel.

“We know many young children either do not attend pre-school, or attend one that is not at the 3/4 rating that defines a “quality program.”  We want every child to attend a quality pre-school program. In the absence of that, WNIT will now provide the 24/7 PBS Kids Channel to offer a full-time educational alternative to the commercial kids’ channels which exist to sell “stuff” to children.

This new channel is available from a home antenna at 34.3 and will be available on most cable systems.  AT&T U-Verse, and the satellite services, DirecTV and DISH will, unfortunately, not carry the channel.

In addition to the television broadcast, the PBS Kids Channel on WNIT will also be fully live-streamed with related on-line games to enhance and extend the learning experience.“

Greg Giczi, President & General Manager, WNIT Center for Public Media

Here are links to two videos promoting the new channel:

https://youtu.be/kkRYEj0dRJ0

https://youtu.be/IGMQtt2eyoU

Need more information or materials?  Please contact Jamal Henry (jhenry@wnit.org).

GCS Representatives Included in City of Goshen’s Storm Drain Art Project

Posted on by June 18, 2019

Goshen Community Schools was well represented by artists in the Storm Drain Art Project held by the City of Goshen this spring. Two teachers, Rachel Weaver and Heather Potsander, as well as a Goshen High School graduate Katarina Antal, shared their artwork with our community to encourage protecting our local water resources.

The artists were selected by a committee from artwork submitted in February. Artists were tasked with submitting artwork which would draw the public’s attention to our local waterways and the need to protect them. Each selected artist was assigned a local storm drain and the adjacent sidewalk on which to paint their chosen piece. Painting on concrete is a challenge, but add in the rainy weather we have experienced this spring and these painters deserve even greater praise for completing such beautiful and amazing works of art.

Rachel Weaver teaches 6th-grade visual arts at Goshen Middle School. Her love of water came about at an early age. She grew up living by the river, and spending summers in nearby lakes swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. In high school, she took the marine biology class and became more aware of the importance of water preservation. Rachel felt this project was an excellent way to combine her love of water, education, and art. She also wanted to set an example for her students and allow them to see the message in our community. When sharing her inspiration for this project, Rachel said, “It is important to maintain the health of our nearby water sources not just for our own recreation, but for all who rely on it to survive.”

Heather Potsander is an art teacher at Parkside Elementary School and enjoys creating artwork with elements of surprise and hidden messages.  Such hidden or surprised elements can be found in Heather’s artwork for this project.  “I want people of all ages to experience the joy children have when encountering the unexpected,” says Potsander. The natural landscape, particularly that of the Millrace Canal Trail, inspires her work. A graduate of Goshen College, Potsander also teaches private art classes from her home in Goshen.  When not teaching, she may be found knitting, sewing, or drawing with her three children and their chickens.

Katarina Antal is a graduate of Goshen High School (class of 2017). Her passion for art and interest in the environment led her to study at Ball State University, where she is currently studying Landscape Architecture. As a young girl, Katarina Antal remembers exploring the Goshen dam pond, surrounding forest trails, and riding her bike down the mill race on beautiful summer days. Katarina appreciates the Goshen Community for its support of the arts by providing opportunities for artists to engage with the community. Katarina hopes her painting will be an inspiration to others in the Goshen Community.