NES Principaw Update #8 (Mar 2024)
Mr. Vince Sette and Mrs. Nicole McQuate
Marching into March
Greetings Bobcat Families,
Wow we are full steam into 2024 right now. Hard to believe in just a few shorts months the school year will be over. Before we get there we have a lot of fun times to celebrate.
The office is currently open from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm at the elementary.
Parents, please make sure you complete the Final Forms online. If you need assistance, reach out, and we can help complete that if needed.
INSTANT CONNECT
The district will move to a new communication text messaging system this year. We are replacing REMIND with a new product that will be easier to use called Instant Connect. This product syncs and works with Final Forms and DASL so that we always have the most up-to-date contact information for parents. At the beginning of the school year, Mr. Leatherman sent a text message asking parents, staff, and students to opt-in to our alerts from our new notification system. Your phone number is not in our system if you did not get that text.
If you wish to join our new alert notification system, text YES to 87569, and your number will be added.
Counselor's Corner with Mrs. Monte
In March, we will finish up our empathy and kindness unit and start introducing some social problem-solving skills. As always, I periodically add to my counseling site with information about what we are doing in class per each grade level tab.
This month Mrs. Dutter and I will collaborate for our third to create a social emotional/art activity for 3rd- 5th graders. This is an optional opportunity for students to complete during or after spring break to turn in for a reward. This reward is usually redeemed in May when we have a higher chance of sunny days :) In the past, this has been a handout or booklet with different art activities connected to social emotional standards that can be completed independently by 3rd-5th grade students. Keep a lookout for something to come home about this before the week of Spring Break.
Class Lesson Topics in March
Kindergarten: Weekly - Students will expand on their lessons about kindness and include lessons that help develop good character traits.
Kind Words Vs Hurtful Words
Honesty
Making Helpful Choices at School
Personal Space
1st Grade: Weekly - This month’s lessons will expand on our kindness education and include ways to mend conflicts.
Practicing Kind Acts
Demonstrating Kind Acts
Including Others
Apologies
2nd Grade: Bi-Weekly - This month we will put our empathy to the test! We will learn how to stop and think before we say something. We will also learn to accept the differences of others and solve social conflicts.
Social Filter
Accepting Differences
The Way To Solve a Problem
3rd Grade: Weekly - We are still talking about kindness as it deserves so much of our attention. We will also learn how to better work with others.
My Kind of Kindness
Do Something Kind
Tone of Voice
Teamwork
4th Grade: Bi-Weekly - We will end our empathy and kindness unit with a lesson about looking at others’ perspectives. Then, we will begin our social problem solving unit, starting with a lesson about the brain and why we may react the way we do.
Different Points of View
The Brain
5th Grade: Bi-Weekly - We are now starting our social problem solving unit. “STEP” is an acronym that is introduced when they are third graders and include Saying the Problem, Thinking of possible solutions, exploring the outcomes, and picking a solution.
STEP Problem Solving
Conflict Resolution
Alexa Monte
School Counselor
Norwayne Elementary School
(330)-435-6383
Family and Community Liaison Newsletter from Tri-County ESC (2/26/2024)
2023-2024 NES PTO
How Can You Find More About NES PTO:
- Visit the Norwayne Elementary PTO Website by clicking the link below.
- Find the PTO page on Facebook for updates and information. Search Norwayne Elementary PTO and follow the page to stay in the know.
- email PTO at norwaynepto@gmail.com with any questions
- Join the Remind Group for NES PTO (www.remind.com/join/nespto21)
Old Business to Review:
- 2024 Mother Son Dodgeball event was a huge success. Thank you to everyone who helped plan and attend.
- Daddy Daughter Dance took place on Sunday February 18, 2024. The event will ran from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at NES.
Important Upcoming Dates:
- NES Book Fair will occur the week of March 4th through March 8th. Family night will be Tuesday March 5th from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at NES Library.
State testing breakfasts
NES Spring Fling
2023-2024 Officers
- President = Nikki Wincek
- Vice President = Danielle Saurers
- Secretary = Rhonda Gowin
- Treasurer = Angie Smith
2023-2024 PTO Meeting Dates (All take place at 6:00 pm in the NES Library)
- 9/20/23
- 10/18/23
- 11/15/23
- 1/17/24
- 2/21/24
- 3/20/24
- 4/17/24
- 5/15/24
2023-2024 PTO Events
- NES Spring Fling will take place on April 12, 2024. More details with specific times will be forthcoming.
MARCH SNAPSHOT and IMPORTANT DATES
Several important dates are coming in March. We ask that you please review the dates below, as there have been changes to the school calendar.
2023-2024 Norwayne Color Calendar
- March 1, 2024 = FFA Tractor Parade @ NES (3:00 pm)
- March 4, 2024 = Spring Photos @ NES
- March 4 - March 8, 2024 = NES Book Fair @ NES (during Library Times)
- March 5, 2024 = NES Book Fair Family Night @ NES Library (4:00 - 7:00 pm)
- March 4 - March 8, 2024 = Seuss Week @ NES
- March 8, 2024 = DC Dinner Event @ NMS (4:30 - 7:30 pm)
- March 12, 2024 = 3rd Grade Concert @ NMS/PAC (7:00 pm)
- March 20, 2024 = NES PTO Meeting @ NES Library (6:00 pm)
- March 22, 2024 = End of 3rd 9 Weeks
- March 25 - March 29, 2024 = No School / Spring Break
- March 25, 2024 = Board Meeting @ NHS (4:00 pm)
Tips for the Year from Mr. Sette
March Transportation Department Updates
February was a great month of showing love to our bus drivers for Love the Bus month!
We also had successful bus inspections which we have several times a school year to be sure we are driving the safest buses!
We're moving into springtime now and will be having brighter mornings. Yay! We still ask that you be out at your bus stop at least 5 minutes before your stop time. This is our school policy and will also help drivers stay on time and get you to school on time.
We are almost 3/4 of the way through the school year so please do not forget that the rules on the bus apply until the very last day of school. Staying seated until the bus comes to a complete stop is just one of the rules we should be following!
When inclement weather conditions occur, a decision might be made by the Transportation Coordinator and/or the Superintendent to delay the opening of school by one hour, two hours, to close school, or to dismiss school early. Every effort will be made to announce delays/closings as early as possible. Also, there may be an announcement to delay school openings with a re-evaluation period to possibly close schools.
All weather related announcements will be made through the following media outlets: Wooster radio WQKT 104.5, and WKVX 960 AM will broadcast school delay or closing information.
Cancellations/delays will also be reported to Cleveland TV stations, Channels 3, 5, 8 and 19. Also, Norwayne Local Schools Alert system will send out a text, (if you are signed up) as well as posted on the Norwayne Local Schools website @ http://www.norwaynelocal.k12.oh.us
Student Handbook Talking Points
ATTENDANCE and UNDERSTANDING ODE LANGUAGE
We are mandated by law to inform parents when students reach different thresholds for absences. Please note that if you receive an attendance letter from the school, we encourage you to call in with any questions to understand better what is going on. We want everyone to be informed, and we realize that our current policies may require some families to stay at home, which puts them above the allowable absences from ODE. We will continue to work with families on how to help on a case-by-case basis, as every scenario could be unique. Please note that missing school, whether excused or unexcused, still impacts a child's education. We will also begin to do this monthly so that we can better keep parents updated on things.
- Chronic Absenteeism is defined as missing 10 percent or more of the school year for any reason. This includes excused and unexcused absences.
- Habitual Truancy is defined as any child of compulsory school age who is absent without legitimate excuse from the public school for thirty or more consecutive hours, forty-two or more hours in one school month, or seventy-two or more hours in one school year. This is different than chronic absenteeism as this only counts absence without legitimate excuses.
- Excessive Absences are defined as a student being absent with a nonmedical excuse for thirty-eight or more hours in one school month or sixty-five or more hours in a school year.
- Tardies are defined within our student handbook. A student may receive a tardy letter notice if they exceed 4 or more tardies within one month.
2023-2024 NES BREAKFAST and LUNCHES
Breakfast and Lunches for the 2023-2024 school year will no longer be free. Please be on the lookout for the monthly lunch menus once school begins. We will send a hard copy home as well as make them available online to view.
Friendly reminder that when we are on a 2 hour delay breakfast will not be served.
2023-2024 Breakfast and Lunch Prices
Breakfast = $2.50
Lunch = $3.00
Extra Items
Student Milk = $0.75
Pizza Per Slice (on pizza day) = $2.50
Main Dish Only = $2.50
Norwayne Local Schools participate in the government's free and reduced lunch program. Parents are encouraged to fill out free and reduced forms if they feel they would qualify for these services. A new form must be filled out each year, even if a family qualified in years past. Guidelines and applications are sent home at the beginning of each school year. If you feel you qualify, please apply.
MARCH STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
Kindergarten Spotlight
Josie Tarleton = Josie is a very hard worker. She is eager to participate in class activities. She is such a bigger helper in the classroom and is always looking for ways to help without being asked to do so. Great Job in everything you do, Josie!
Corbin Snyder = Corbin sets the bar high for his classmates! He is a patient, quiet, natural leader and is always wanting to help others. He truly has a servant's heart and helps just because he knows it’s a good thing to do, not for recognition or prizes. He is kind to all of his classmates and is a good problem solver. He’s a hard worker and has come so far in reading this year! I can trust Corbin to help me run errands or help another student if I am working with a small group. At home he loves to work on the farm and drive tractors with his dad.and bake with his mom and grandma. He loves tigers and likes to learn about them. At school he loves to play outside, help in the classroom and work on his computer. Corbin’s friends say he is “kind and patient”. We are all better because Corbin is in our classroom!
Holden Graham = Holden has always been kind & helpful, but this month he has taken off! I am so proud of him for the example he sets through actions, not just words. In our classroom, we always say, “Don’t talk about it. Be about it” Holden is always a leader by example. We love having him in our classroom!
1st Grade Spotlight
Kohen Fetter = It is with great pleasure to select Kohen Fetter as our student of the month for March. He comes to class prepared and ready to learn something new every day. He is very helpful to his classmates and always leads by example. He makes good choices and is a friend to everyone. Keep up the good work, Kohen!
Jesse Anliker = Jesse is a very kind and studious first grader! He comes to class prepared and ready to learn something new every day. He has a smile on his face and is always willing to lend a helping hand. He follows directions the first time and tries to be fair to everyone. Keep up the great work, Jesse!
2nd Grade Spotlight
Ona Simonik = Ona sets a good example for her classmates because she is always prepared for class and ready to learn. She participates in class discussions and works hard on her lessons. At the end of each day, Ona makes sure our classroom is clean and inviting for the next morning. Ona is an excellent role model!
Jarrod Milczewski = Jarrod always sets a good example by being on task, working hard, and helping to keep our community clean. He always has a kind word for his classmates. We appreciate Jarrod’s effort every day!
Wyatt Hartzler = Wyatt is such a sweetheart; he comes to school each day with a positive attitude. He cares about his classmates and helps them out without looking for positive recognition. Wyatt is focused and gets his work done right away. He is great at collaborating with others. It’s been fun to see his silly side come out as the year progresses. Keep up the good work, Wyatt! I am proud of you.
Tecca Widmer = Tecca comes to school everyday eager to learn! She is an excellent role model in class; she helps other students, is willing to help the teacher anytime, and helps clean the room daily. Tecca focuses well in class, gives her all, and has a great personality! Keep up the good work, Tecca!
3rd Grade Spotlight
Molly Snyder = Molly is an absolute joy to have in class. She works hard and is always caught doing the right thing. She is helpful and kind to others. She goes out of her way to do the right thing. Keep being a great Bobcat!
Max Gasser = Max comes to school ready to learn everyday. He is such a great friend to others and is very respectful. Keep being an awesome bobcat Max!
Ian Beery = Ian always does a great job demonstrating what it means to be a Kind, Safe, and Responsible Bobcat. He comes to school ready to work and learn and always does so with a smile on his face. He has a great sense of humor that brings a smile to the faces of his friends and teachers. Keep up the hard work, Ian!
Liam Fisher = Liam is such a wonderful helper around the classroom. He does a great job of cleaning the tables, sweeping the floor, and putting down chairs. He takes pride in his jobs. Liam is also the fastest finger-knitter around and has made multiple things for both Mrs. Murphy and the Santa Shop this year. Continue working toward being the best kind, safe, and responsible Bobcat you can be Liam!
4th Grade Spotlight
- Grayson Kenney = Grayson is a vivacious fourth-grader. His favorite subject is Math.Grayson's joyful spirit extends beyond school to his friendships and adventures playing Pokémon. He is trustworthy, kind and hardworking! Great Job, Grayson!
- Adra Martin = Adra is a diligent and respectful fourth grader, shines brightly in her academic pursuits with a knack for Science. Beyond the classroom, her passion for karate and basketball fuels her active lifestyle, showcasing her determination and zest for learning both inside and outside of school. With her helpful nature and dedication, Adra embodies the spirit of a well-rounded student. Keep it up, Adra!
5th Grade Spotlight
- Ezra Beery = Ezra is a hard-working and reliable 5th grade student. Ezra attacks each day with confidence and poise that is much appreciated by the NES community. Ezra enjoys science class and being the oldest in the school. Outside of school Ezra enjoys farming, soccer, and relaxing. Keep up the great work Ezra!
- Brennan Piatt = Brennan is a respectful and hard-working 5th grade student. His ability to recognize the process on how to reach his goals is one of his best qualities. Brennan enjoys science class, but outside of school he likes to draw, game, and play sports. What he likes most about 5th grade is being the top cat of the school. Brennan is also a part of a group that helps organize the clean-up after the school parties.
- Easton Wheeland = Easton is a trustworthy, caring, and respectful 5th grade student. Easton comes to school everyday with a positive attitude and determined mindset. His favorite subject is Science and he is excited to go to middle school next year. Outside of school, Easton enjoys gaming and playing with his dogs. Easton is also a part of a group that helps organize the clean-up after the school parties.
- Case Morlock = Case is a reliable and confident student. His best quality is his ability to lead by example in NES. Case’s favorite subject is Math but he also enjoys learning the cool stuff in Social Studies class. Outside of school, Case enjoys working and playing with his animals. Case is also a part of a group that helps organize the clean-up after the school parties.
VOLUNTEER UPDATES @ NES
Hello Bobcat Families,
We wanted to share some new information with everyone in regard to volunteers at NES. The district has recently moved to a new background check system (SecureVolunteer, a BIB product) for any and all volunteers in the building. For those of you who frequently visit the NES website, you may have noticed there is a new tab that can be found labeled "Volunteer". I have also linked the tab directly below. By clicking the link you will find information on the volunteer process which will answer many frequently asked questions. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have.
Norwayne Local School Volunteering Website
VOLUNTEER PROCESS
The Norwayne School Board believes one of the greatest resources available may be found in the citizens of the community who have special knowledge and talents to contribute to the District. The use of citizens as volunteers within the school program enhances the educational process not only for students but for the community as well. Volunteers may provide additional support in the classroom, promote community-school cooperation in facilitating the learning process and provide for individuals who have expertise in various areas to be used as resource persons. While we are continually grateful for this support, we are also aware of the potential concerns that can arise when volunteers are working directly with students. The District notifies current and prospective volunteers who have or will have unsupervised access to children on a regular basis that a criminal records check may be conducted at any time. Norwayne Local Schools prioritizes safety for our students and has established a new volunteer process that includes a background check.
What is required?
A background check through the district’s online system will be required of all school volunteers.
How long does it take to process a background check?
Volunteers should apply for the check at least one week prior to an event.
What activities require a background check?
While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some examples that do or do not require a background check:
Background Check Required
Chaperoning a field trip
Providing learning support for a classroom
PTO volunteer work
Volunteering for a classroom celebration at school
Assisting in school during the instructional day
How much does a background check cost?
At this time, Norwayne Local Schools will be covering the cost of the required background checks for volunteers.
How long is a background check effective?
Background checks are good for three years. You will receive an email 30 days prior to expiration informing you that a new background check is needed.
***Norwayne Local Schools utilizes SecureVolunteer, a BIB (Background Investigation Bureau) product, for our background checks. Click the bar below to be taken to the SecureVolunteer website.
FINAL FORMS for 2023-2024
- If you move, get a new phone number during the school year please log on and make the changes in Final Forms while also letting the office know. Having your most up to date information is important for us to ensure effective communication.
Parents can follow the link provided if they did not receive an email to begin the Final Forms process. We thank everyone for their patience as we transition to this online system.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
2023-2024 SCHOOL FEES
BOBCAT COMMUNITY CLOSET
The Closet at 121 S Main St in Creston (right across from the Post Office) offers clothing, shoes, backpacks, coats, hats, gloves, hygiene items, socks and underwear and much more to anyone who could use any of these type of items. We are open the first and third Saturday of each month from 10am-1pm and can also do private appointments. All are welcome and all items are free.
Join us on facebook at Bobcat Community Closet for updates and information or contact us at 330-439-9401
Kindergarten Registration and Screening for 2024-2025 School Year
We are asking that the Kindergarten enrollment application be completed in Final Forms by May 1st, 2024. Enrollment application will be active on Final Forms starting on March 1, 2024.
***CHILD MUST BE 5 YEARS OLD BY AUGUST 1, 2024 to be eligible for Kindergarten.***
Items to be turned in with the online application include:
- Birth Certificate
- Immunization Record
- Proof of Residency (current utility bill showing name, address and date or a signed lease agreement)
- Custody documents (if applicable)
Please call the elementary office building at 330-435-6383 to schedule your child for the time to attend screening.
Screening Location:
Norwayne Community Center
161 South Main Street
Creston, Ohio 44217
Screening Dates:
Monday May 6, 2024
Tuesday May 7, 2024
- The Wayne County Health Department can provide needed immunizations. Please contact the health department in Wooster at 330-264-9590 for further information.
- If you need a copy of your child's birth certificate and your child was born in Ohio, a copy can be obtained from the Wayne County Health Department, Vital Statistics Division.
SUBSTITUTES NEEDED
If you have ever thought to yourself how you can help children and be a part of such an amazing school system look no further. We are ALWAYS looking for substitutes for teaching and support staff positions. We encourage anyone seeking the opportunity to help the district to please get in contact with Mr. Sette or Mrs. McQuate so they can help direct you in the proper direction.
Tri-County ESC Substitute Website
ODE Teacher Substitute Requirements
2024 Tri-County Publishing Project
Congratulations to the following students for having their writing or art work selected to be sent to the Tri-County ESC to be published in a book with other students throughout the county. The book will be published later in May.
1st Grade - Elaina Douglas = "I Had a Pet Penguin"
3rd Grade - Alana Selbee = "The Cheerleader"
4th Grade - Layne Napier = "Hiding in Plain Sight"
5th Grade - Hadley Wharton = "The Sock Rock"
5th Grade - Averie Mannasmith = "Artwork"
Mr. Vince Sette
Email: visette@norwayne.net
Website: www.norwayne.net
Location: 286 South Main Street, Creston, OH, USA
Phone: 330-435-6383
Twitter: @NES_principaws