SALEM–The Salem School Board highlighted some of the incredible programs in the district, and approved a host of personnel items at its meeting Monday.
In his report Salem Schools Superintendent Sean Kirkland wanted to recognize all the incredible programming within the district saying “I went to the administration of each of our schools and asked them all to share just one program they’ve recently conducted to enrich our students.”
Buckeye Elementary hosted an author visit and family reading night Oct. 19 with author of the popular “Who Would Win” series Jerry Pallotta. Pallotta gave a presentation to students in the afternoon, and a second program during family reading night, after which the students and their parents enjoyed refreshments and were able to talk with Pallotta and have their books signed.
Reilly Elementary reported that work was continuing with Math Instruction Specialist Ben Shaw to develop specially targeted and effective math interventions, including daily math manipulatives, increasing student engagement and comprehension.
Southeast Elementary was excited to announce that they had expanded the popular Unlocking Potential Mentoring Program which began last year in collaboration with The United Way with 18 fifth grade students, and community mentors. As the second year of the program begins, they now have more than 30 mentors serving 35 students, who enjoy a special lunch, fun activities, and recess time together to support the students’ education.
The junior high held their annual Turkey Trot Tuesday, featuring a door decorating contest, and a Minute to Win It Challenge in which students competed in teams against each other, and even staff. The event also served as the kickoff to their food drive which will run through Dec. 9, with a goal to collect 2000 items.
The high school held a field trip to YSU for current biology and anatomy students with an interest in pursuing a career in healthcare. Students explored stations where they participated in hands on activities in the fields of physical therapy, athletic training, and respiratory therapy, and toured the university. Students also enjoyed a Chick-fil-A lunch provided by AHEC, during which they got to network with the dean of the college of health and human services, department chairs, and current YSU students about healthcare careers. YSU was so impressed with the professionalism and engagement of the students the school was invited to repeat the trip in the spring with an expanded number of health professions.
Kirkland also took time to acknowledge the schools fall athletes following the end of the season, praising their hard work, diligence and success. Kirkland began his report by expressing his condolences to Lucy Zinz and her family for the tragic, sudden passing of her husband Don Zinz. Zinz was a beloved member of the Quaker family for 27 years as an educator, who Kirkland himself fondly remembers learning under him, before eventually becoming his colleague and friend.
Administrative matters included: the first reading for revisions to school board policies, administrative guidelines, and forms; the approval of activity fund proposals; the approval of the five-year forecast; the approval of the resignation of Assistant Director of Technology Nic Deville, effective Nov. 2; the acceptance of Martina Mazzola from Italy as a Council on Standards for International Education Travel Exchange student for the 2022-2023 school year; the approval of a placement contract with Education Alternatives Ravenna to provide necessary educational services and transportation arrangements; the approval of an agreement contract with LLA Therapy to provide necessary licensed physical, occupational, and speech therapists to provide services to a student at education alternatives; the approval of the high school girls softball field trip to the Ripken Experience in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Apr. 6 through 10, 2023; the approval of an agreement contract with NEOLA to provide select services to the school district; the approval of a resolution to amend the school district’s retirement plan; and the approval in lieu of transportation payments for Dominic Perry, and Caleb Miller.
Personnel matters included: the approval of certified substitutes; the approval of winter job titles and rates for the 2022-2023 winter season; the approval of athletic supplementals for the spring 2022-2023 season; the approval of staff for Buckeye Elementary Family Reading Night; and the approval of winter games workers for the 2022-2023 season.
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