Raymond Central Newsletter
December 2017
Book Fair at Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble Book Fair that will take place this Saturday, Dec 2 (all day) at Barnes & Noble located in the South Pointe Pavilion. Kids activities are scheduled from 10-2 and Kindergarten and 1st graders will be singing three songs, there will be crafts, and drawings for some B&N gift cards.
We collect a percentage of sales from that day. If you go to the store you must mention you are with Raymond Central Public Schools so we get the credit. If you order online, just use the following code (12266367) and we will get credit.
As a reminder, this Saturday is educator discount day, which is 25% off. You can order in store or online. You can order online through December 7 with that code for us to get credit.
TRENDS IN TEEN SUBSTANCE USE: PART ONE OF THREE
Our youth face a multitude of transitions and changes as they grow. Protecting our youth from at-risk behaviors, such as substance use, takes a community of support. One of the best ways we can help our kids make healthy choices is to stay informed and be aware of issues that may adversely affect the lives of our youth. Alcohol, marijuana (including marijuana extracts) and prescription drugs continue to be three of the most prevalently used substances of abuse among our youth. Understanding why our youth may turn to drugs or alcohol is an important step in prevention and intervention. While some kids choose to experiment with drugs and alcohol out of peer pressure or curiosity, others may turn to using substances as a means of self-management or self-medication to deal with underlying issues. For example, youth may find a temporary relief from the symptoms of depression, anxiety or stress, through the use of drugs or alcohol. Young adults with undetected, undiagnosed or untreated emotional or mental health disorders have a higher likelihood of experimenting with substances. If you have concerns that a youth may be experimenting with substances, it is important to ask “what does the drug do for you?” as a means to better assess the problem.
Nationally, as reported by the CDC, alcohol is the most commonly used substance of abuse among America’s youth. According to the 2015 Nebraska Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 22.7% of adolescents have consumed one or more drinks on at least one occasion in the past 30 days, and 14.3 % of adolescents have engaged in binge drinking (5 or more drinks of alcohol in a row) in the past 30 days.
Recent trends in teenage consumption of alcohol include: binge drinking, mixing alcohol with other substances (i.e. prescription pills), flavored liquors, and candy soaked in liquor (i.e. gummy bears in vodka). Throughout our schools we have seen an increase in students consuming liquor that is not diluted with another liquid (most commonly vodka or flavored vodka). The most common ways for students to acquire alcohol are from their own home, from a friend, a friend’s house, or by theft.
UNDERAGE DRINKING
Excessive drinking is responsible for more than 4,300 deaths among underage youth each year. This alone should drive communities to instill practices and policies that reduce youth access to alcohol. While losing a youth to an alcohol related death is the most costly consequence to underage drinking, youth who drink alcohol are more likely to experience:
· School problems, such as higher absences and lower grades
· Social problems, such as lack of participation in youth activities
· Unwanted, unplanned and unprotected sexual activity
· Higher risk for suicide and homicide
· Alcohol-related car crashes and other unintentional injuries.
Despite the use of alcohol amongst youth and the risks associated with such use, there is hope. Everyone can play a role in preventing underage drinking but parents are pivotal players in reducing alcohol consumption amongst youth. 83% of teens say their parents are the leading influence in their decision to not use. It is critical for parents to have discussions with their children on alcohol use and the risks of underage drinking. By talking with children early and often, parents can play a role in their child’s choice to not drink.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
· Stay informed and educated on the latest drug trends amongst youth.
· Lock up alcohol and prescription medication.
· Engage in open dialogue with your child about substance abuse and risks associated with substance use.
· Set a “family policy” around drug use and underage drinking (i.e. expectations, consequences, communication).
· Talk with the parents of your child’s peers and know who your child spends time with– peers are the leading influence in youth substance use/abuse.
· Help your child plan how to deal with social pressures to drink or try other substances.
· Talk with your child about important issues like anxiety, depression, relationships and academic concerns. Teen substance use can be due to another underlying factor, such as a means to cope with stress.
· Assist your child in utilizing positive coping skills.
· Partner with your child’s school and other community resources.
· Promote Protective Factors: characteristics associated with a lower likelihood of negative outcomes or that reduce a risk factor’s impact.
Examples Include:
* Parental involvement
* Positive parenting practices
* Positive peer groups
“Helping the Homeless from Head to Toe”
Raymond Central is showing an attitude of gratitude helping those in need. October was designated “Socktober” where everyone across the US was asked to donate a pair of socks to the 600,000+ homeless in the United States. We want to continue the campaign, including donating hats and gloves thru December 20, 2017, Helping the Homeless from Head to Toe! November and December are months of giving thanks and what is a greater way to say thank you than by giving back! Whether it’s a hat, a pair of gloves, socks or a whole pack of them, any donation will be helpful!
All donations will be delivered to the Lincoln People’s City Mission.
New hats, gloves and socks can be dropped off at Raymond Central Elementary at Ceresco or Valparaiso AND Raymond Central High School or they can be mailed to the following address:
Valparaiso Elementary
Attn: Project Homeless
406 East Third Street
Valparaiso, NE 68065
If you have questions please contact: Mrs. White at krwhite@rcentral.org
High School Band and Choir
Many band and choir members have been busy auditioning for honor events. On October 27, Concordia University in Seward held their annual Musical Arts Day. Choir members included altos Hannah Herron, Cristina Becher and Illiana Maxwell; and bass Ethan Ang. Band members included Brigit Shultz on Clarinet, Maiya Miller on Alto Saxaphone, Matthew Jackson on Trumpet, and Brandon Unverferth on Tuba.
In November, the Nebraska Music Education Association hosted their annual convention with the All State Jazz Band, Choir, Orchestra and Band concerts on the 18th. Brandon Unverferth was selected for the band on his tuba and Ellen Dexter was an alternate on Trombone. It is a prestigious event with the best high school musicians from across Nebraska being selected for the ensembles. Members practiced together for over 12 hours over 2 1/2 days prior to the concert.
Please join the 7-12 band and choir for their annual Christmas concert on Tuesday, December 12th.
Please save Box Tops and Best Choice UPC Labels
Counselor News
December 9th National ACT
December 25th – 29th No School
2018 Spring Semester
January 4th First day back to school
January 12th Deadline to register for February National ACT
February 7th Mini College Fair: JATC Electrical, CUNE, UNK
February 7th Raising Canes Dual/College Credit night
for 10th and 11th grade student and parents
February 8th Parent Teacher Conferences 7-12th grade 4-8pm
February 8th 8th going to 9th grade parent meeting
February 10th National ACT
February 24th Seniors Scholarship Saturday worktime breakfast provided
February *Start scheduling for next year
March 6th Mini College Fair- JATC Electrical, CUNE
March 9th Deadline to register for April National ACT
March 10th Seniors Scholarship Saturday worktime breakfast provided
March 15th Local Scholarships Due
March 21st Transition Fair- more details to come from Mrs. Benes and Ms. Osten
April 2nd NO SCHOOL Easter break
April 3rd State ACT for juniors at RC (DO NOT MISS SCHOOL)
April 3rd Freshman College Visit
April 3rd Sophomore College Visit
April 3rd Junior High Health Fair
April 3rd Senior Field Trip
April 19th Mini College Fair- JATC Electrical, CUNE, SCC
May 12th Graduation
From the Desk of Dr. Joel
We have entered the time of year when we face the months when Nebraska weather can be very unpredictable and cold! The decision to delay, cancel, or dismiss school early is usually a difficult one. When the forecast predicts wintry weather, as a student I remember the days of wishing for the coveted snow day, while at the same time parents are hoping school will be open as usual. Despite these opposing ideas, I am committed to the safety of our students, staff, and families as they travel to and from school and events.
When there is a change for the worse in weather conditions, I will communicate with school personnel and other superintendents in the area along with driving roads myself to determine what decision needs to be made. My intention will always be to make a decision as quickly and efficiently as possible to provide the necessary time for students and families to make the appropriate arrangements for child care.
If we find ourselves in a situation where school will start late, dismiss early, or be called off for the day, the alert will be sent by a pre-recorded phone call, text message, email from the district office, and posted to the school website. The message will also be broadcasted on the local news stations, primarily Channel 10/11.
I look forward to a fantastic winter and attending as many school activities as possible. If we have not had a chance to meet, please do not hesitate to catch me at an event to introduce yourself.
Go Mustangs!
Dr. Derrick Joel
High School Art News
The Memory Project, a nonprofit organization in Wisconsin, invites art teachers and their students to create and donate portraits to youth around the world who have faced substantial challenges, such as neglect, abuse, loss of parents, violence, and poverty. The art students use photographs of the children, then create the portraits and TMP delivers them. This year seven Advanced Art students participated with portraits of children from the Philippines, over 12 million people live in extreme poverty with the average wage of $2 per day.
On November 15th-17th, the Nebraska Association of School Boards will be hosting their annual state convention in La Vista. An art exhibition will be hung in the main entrance area of the Embassy Suites where the conference attendees check in. The Nebraska Art Teachers Association sponsors and hangs the exhibit that features two pieces of art work submitted by a NATA member. This year Makenzi Isaac and Raine Rittscher, both seniors at Raymond Central High School, has work in the art show.
Makenzi Isaac & Raine Rittscher
Raine Rittscher's Talismen (colored pencil drawing)
Makenzi Isaac's Floral Photo Montage
RC Youth Trap Club
Please stop by the Raymond Central High School office and sign up to become a Member of the 2018 RCYTC. Club Members, take a friend along with you to sign up!
INFORMATIONAL MEETING:
Wednesday, January 17 at 6:00pm
Location: Commons Area at Raymond Central High School – please invite others who are interested in learning more.
PRACTICE:
Monday and Wednesday, starting Wednesday, February 28th
Location: Lincoln Trap and Skeet. 4855 N 48th Street, Lincoln NE 68504
$5/round. Members will need $10/2 rounds for each practice. Punch Cards are available for $50/10 rounds.
Please remember to bring the following items with you to all practices and events:
Gun
Shells
Eye Protection
Ear Protection
Vest *
Shell Pouch *
*Optional items that you may want to purchase after seeing what others have and what will work best for you.
Please reply by email to Dan, call if you are interested in the following items:
· 5 flats of Winchester Super Target 12ga shells. Each flat is $50.
· A shooting coat, adult large, for sale. It’s black and in good condition. $25
· Through the new youth ammo program from Fiocchi, we can receive a discount for a combined order from the Club. See the attached document for details. There is a minimum of 50 cases.
If you have any questions about sign up, practice, equipment or items for sale, please call RCYTC Coach, Dan McElwain at 402-457-9137, or email Dan.C.McElwain@zoetis.com.
Important Activity Dates
Speech Home invite - Saturday Jan 13th
Wrestling senior night - Thursday Jan 18th
Conference wrestling @ RC - Saturday Jan 20th
Reserve basketball tournament @ Milford (hosted by RC) - Saturday Jan 20th
Conference basketball - Mon Jan 22th through Sat Jan 27th
Wrestling home invite - Saturday Jan 27th
Student Accomplishments
Congratulations to the following students who took an Information Technology course in 2016 - 2017 with Ms. Bastian and became certified Microsoft Office Specialists.
Office Word 2013
- Logan Black
- Kayli Bordovsky
- Ethan Boyd
- Jaxon Eddie
- Amanda Gyhra
- Rylee Haecker
- Cheyenne Helbert
- Amber Heyen
- Ashley Heyen
- Andrew Kelly
- Katelyn Komenda
- Kendra Masek
- Connor Nichols
- Nicholas Ohle
- Joshua Palensky
- Jackson Pavey
- Madison Pytlik
- Weston Schon
- Dylan Schweitzer
- Caleb Shultz
- Hannah Stuart
- Allen Walla
Office Excel 2013
- Logan Black
- Kayli Bordovsky
- Ethan Boyd
- Nathaniel Boyd
- Dylan Dreier
- Amanda Gyhra
- Rylee Haecker
- Cheyenne Helbert
- Amber Heyen
- Ashley Heyen
- Daianera Jeppesen
- Katelyn Komenda
- Kendra Masek
- Connor Nichols
- Trevor Oldfield
- Joshua Palensky
- Madison Pytlik
- Riley Robbins
- Weston Schon
- Dylan Schweitzer
- Caleb Shultz
- Hannah Stuart
- Payton Tvrdy
- Allen Walla
- Ian White
Office PowerPoint 2013
- Helen Andelt
- Logan Black
- Kayli Bordovsky
- Ethan Boyd
- Nathaniel Boyd
- Dylan Dreier
- Jaxon Eddie
- Amanda Gyhra
- Rylee Haecker
- Cheyenne Helbert
- Ashley Heyen
- Thomas Holley
- Daianera Jeppesen
- Theadocia Johnson
- Andrew Kelly
- Katelyn Komenda
- Kendra Masek
- Mitchell Miller
- Connor Nichols
- Nicholas Ohle
- Joshua Palensky
- Jackson Pavey
- Madison Pytlik
- Weston Schon
- Dylan Schweitzer
- Caleb Shultz
- Ethan Stewart
- Hannah Stuart
- Payton Tvrdy
- Allen Walla
- Ian White
Office Access 2013
- Logan Black
- Amanda Gyhra
- Daianera Jeppesen
- Katelyn Komenda
- Trevor Oldfield
- Joshua Palensky
- Jackson Pavey
- Weston Schon
- Ethan Stewart
- Ian White
On average, Microsoft certified technologists earn 15% more than their uncertified peers. What’s more, certified employees are often entrusted with supervising their peers—putting you on the fast track for a promotion.
When you pass a Microsoft Office Specialist Certification exam, you’ll have access to your Microsoft Badge; share your certification online with your professional network, and unlock your salary potential.
Benefits of becoming certified include:
- College Transfer Credit
- Expanded Knowledge & Skills in Microsoft Office Suite
- Better Career Prospects
- Higher Wage/Salary Earning Potential
- Your Resume will Stand Out
- Recieve a Microsoft Certificate and Badge
If you are interested in more information or taking an Information Technology course next semester/year please feel free to email Ms. Bastian at abastian@rcentral.org or Ms. Osten at tosten@rcentral.org.
For more information please visit the following websites:
https://certiport.pearsonvue.com/About/The-value-of-certification
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/certification-benefits.aspx
http://www.thewindowsclub.com/microsoft-certification-benefits
https://www.simplilearn.com/microsoft-certification-benefits-article
Junior Job Shadow Day by Clare Hornung
November 15th was Junior Job Shadow Day. For those who don’t know what this is, the 11th graders get the day off to go to a career place of their choice and learn more about what that job entails. This helps students determine whether or not that career might be in their future, or if they actually don’t like it and can look at other options. They are required to personally contact and set up this job shadow, and go there themselves.
A couple of days later in class, 11th graders write a thank you letter to the person they shadowed. This also fulfills a graduation requirement for them before Senior year. Most juniors were able to set up their shadow alone, and some of them requested Ms. Smith’s help, either to help write an e-mail, what to say on the phone, or find a contact in that career area. She also oversaw the writing of thank you letters.
This year the juniors went all over. You name a job, and a junior was probably there! Some went to publishers, lawyers, veterinarian offices, physical therapy, schools, and many other places around Wahoo, Lincoln, and the surrounding areas. I asked a few students about their experiences.
Ellissa Fredrickson, who went to Fallbrook to the Bryan Clinic, said “I liked it a lot. I got to experience what it was like to be a nurse practitioner. I saw patients, and the paperwork and charting.”
Nick Springer went to Makovicka Physical Therapy said, “I liked it. I enjoyed experiencing a day as a physical therapist, I think I’d see myself going into that field.”
Josh Palensky said “ I enjoyed it, it was a thrilling experience. I watched them perform surgeries on animals. I don’t think this is something I’ll go into, though.” He had gone to a veterinarian office.
Lastly, Amanda Ghyra visited Rallis Orthodontics, she told me “I had a great experience learning about their schedule and technology they use. I’d like to follow in those footsteps.”
Overall, the junior class had a good experience, some have found their dream jobs and now they will know what to expect.
Stuffing was voted as RC's favorite Thanksgiving food!
Child Development Car Seat Safety
Officer Piitz assisted the Child Development Class in learning about how to correctly install a car seat before beginning to take home the Real Care Babies. He shared information and a couple video clips, then students practiced installing in their vehicles.
About Us
Email: rcentraljournalism@gmail.com
Website: www.rcentral.org
Phone: 402-785-2685
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaymondCentralHS/
Twitter: @RC_Mustangs