SYRACUSE – North Webster Elementary School teachers presented a program to the Wawasee School Board Tuesday night that had them very excited. CLASS, or Connecting Learning Assures Successful Students, is now in its third year, and at least six teachers explained and exulted the practice and results in positive, program-appropriate language. Fifth grade teacher Mike Willaman told the board that this program “has unified us, set us on a common course.” What the program entails, he and the other teachers, explained, is a technique of incorporating positive language and behavior into everyday teaching and learning. For example, students and teachers start off every day with a life goal pledge that reassures “all things are possible today! Good news is heading my way!” The way this is done is through fun messages, games, quotes and other creative ideas that are posted on boards outside the classrooms. Inside, students have a chance to participate in discussions through “community circles” that allows all students to feel part of a group or community. Fourth graders are encouraged to become ambassadors, those who engage with younger students, and all do this with a common, positive language that is based upon two core principals: do what’s right, and treat others right. And, never forget, “As good as you are, you can always get better.” Wawasee High School students will see an expansion to facilities. The board voted to purchase the former Precision Automotive building, W. Chicago St., for $265,000. The building will be the site of the marine mechanics and other mechanic or engineering programs. In other good news, Superintendent Tom Edington listed many contributions received and fund raising projects that have contributed to the community. The Milford school raised $578 for Heifer International, a charity that provides farm animals to impoverished countries. The North Webster school, in cooperation with Church of God and the North Webster community, provided food and gifts to around 112 local children and families. The coats and blankets collected by high school students numbered around 400, and their penny pitch raised $2,350.47. Contributions received include $1,000 from Doug and Jeanine Schrock, almost $1,800 from Milford PTO, and an engine from Performance Services for the tech department. In other news, school board president Mike Wilson handed the gavel to new president Rebecca Linnemeier and took his seat as vice president. Board member Mary Lou Dixon asked about a sign celebrating the accomplishments of her winning Academic Superbowl team, and all were informed of a minimum 95 percent attendance rate first trimester at all schools in the corporation. There will be an open house 5 p.m.- 7 p.m. Friday at the high school showing off its kitchen, cafeteria and culinary rooms. Snacks will be provided.
