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In Focus Winter 2021 Flipbook PDF

In Focus Winter 2021

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In Focus

A Quarterly Newsletter from the Midwest Regional Educational Service Center

Winter 2021

What’s Inside: Superintendent’s Message Pg. 3 Curriculum Team Pg. 4 Professional Development Pg. 5 Shelby County Pg. 10 Gifted Services Pg. 11 Opportunity School Pg. 13 Hardin County Pg. 16 Early Childhood Pg. 17 Youth Development Pg. 18

“Bee”ing the Best Recognizing Our Super Spellers!

LCEF

Our Mission Our mission is to serve and support families and districts as an innovative educational partner. Our Team

• Scott Howell, Superintendent: [email protected] • Shawn McElroy, Executive Director of Organzational Development: [email protected] • Dave Shellhaas, Director of Curriculum & Science, Social Studies Content Specialist: [email protected] • Gina Rogers, Director of Curriculum & ELA Content Specialist: [email protected] • Robert Batty, Director of Curriculum & Math Content Specialist: [email protected] • Connie Schneider, Director of Special Education: [email protected] • Sybil Truster, Director of Administrative Services & Innovative Programs: [email protected] • Erica Baer, Director of Student Achievement & Gifted Coordinator: [email protected] • Craig Ludwig, Director of Special Education: [email protected] • Lori Berger, Director of Early Childhood Education: [email protected] • Meaghan Tidwell, Director of Special Education, Indian Lake Local Schools: [email protected] • Jeanie Riethman, Director of Student Services (Fort Loramie, Russia, & HardinHouston): [email protected] • Karen Sorreles, Logan County Youth Development Liaison: [email protected] • Amy Simindinger, Shelby County Juvenile Court Liaison: [email protected]

On the Cover- “Bee”ing the Best In January, the MRESC hosted the annual Logan County Spelling Bee. The winner claims the travelling trophy for his or her school for the entire year. See Page 12 for a full report.

Our Board

Our board is comprised of seven members of the community who are elected to serve. They represent school districts in all three of our member counties. Our board members are:

A Message from the Superintendent BY SCOTT HOWELL

Janet Moore President

Connie Dyer Member

Eric Ditmer Member

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Above: MRESC Superintendent Scott Howell congratulates 2021 Logan County Spelling Bee winner Chazlance Moore.

Ryan Woolley Vice President

Larry Mouser Member

Randall Sailor Member

Dave Campbell Member

Thank you for your interest in the Midwest Regional Educational Service Center. We invite you to read this winter quarterly report to experience just some of the wonderful ways we work to serve the students, staff, and districts of Hardin, Logan, and Shelby Counties. At the MRESC, we appreciate your partnership and your invitation to serve your school district. We value your feedback on the quality of the services we provide to your district and we want to use this publication to demonstrate the fine work we are doing. If you would like more information about the MRESC, its programs, or its services, please email me at [email protected]. Scott A. Howell Superintendent

Logan County Education Foundation

In 1989, Superintendents came together with an idea to create a place in Logan County for the community to donate funds to teachers to support local classroom grants to boost education of the students in public schools in Logan County. This place or corporation is called the Logan County Education Foundation. The Foundation is now flourishing and offers many scholarships to graduating seniors attending public school. Scholarship deadline for 2021 is March 1st. On-line application available at www.lcedfd.org Building Level and Dedicated Grants will be offered in late Spring to be implemented in the 2021-22 school year. Donations are received for many occasions: birthdays, thank yous, retirements and memorials to name a few. If you know of someone wishing to offer a scholarship or grant, we would be happy to assist. Twenty-four community members serve as LCEF Trustees: Bellefontaine- Beth Harman, Heidi Michael, Kyle Springs, Niki Thomas, Bryn Daring-Stewart Benjamin Logan- Shelley Nease, Tami Himmeger, Denyse Bayliss, Danielle Jenkins, Jacob Holycross, Terri Penhorwood Indian Lake- Matt Zarnosky, Rick Powers, Jamie Ferguson, Leslie Bozman, Kirsten Minnich, Delna Miller Riverside- Kathy Schindewolf, Chuck Bertshman, Nadine Tussing, Connie Beatty, Staci Severt, Lori Barber. Karen Sorreles is the Executive Director. The Executive Board members are Beth Harman, Matt Zarnosky, Connie Beatty, Brad Hall, Shelley Nease, Heidi Michael, Marueen Yoder and Scott Howell. More info can be found on the website www.lcedfd.org or email [email protected].

Superintendent’s Message www.mresc.org | 3

OTES 2.0:

Getting Teachers Ready for the Transition BY SHAWN MCELROY

The MRESC Curriculum Team (consisting of Bob Batty, Gina Rogers, and Dave Shellhaas), has been busy helping to prepare district administrators and teachers to make the transition from OTES 1.0 to OTES 2.0. The new model for evaluation has been created to focus on the continual professional growth of teachers. The Team has created a Sample Implementation Guide for districts to use as they work through the process of making key decisions that surround OTES 2.0. This guide provides a clear path for districts as they navigate the key decisions that need to be made prior to full implementation in the Fall of 2021. In addition to the Sample Implementation Guide, the team has created a 90 minute interactive presentation for teachers that provides an overview of the new evaluation system. During the presentation teachers investigate and begin to process the information in the following areas: Essential Framework, Professional Growth/ Improvement Plans, High Quality Student Data, and Rubric. During the guided presentation, teachers are encouraged to ask questions and discuss with fellow

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colleagues their understanding and learning. The Team has found that this presentation provides teachers with the basics they need to know going into next school year, provided the opportunity for self reflection, and helped to eliminate the fear of a new evaluation tool. The Curriculum Team has developed sessions for the Summer of 2021 to assist teachers with collecting and using student data. These opportunities will help teachers with gathering and using data in their classrooms, which in turn will assist them in providing evidence for OTES 2.0. Click the picture below to see the flyer for more information about these sessions. The MRESC also has two state OTES 2.0 trainers on staff, Erica Baer and Gina Rogers. Our trainers will be hosting several Bridge and Full Evaluator Trainings, for current and new evaluators over the coming months to ensure evaluators are prepared for the transition. Please contact Bob, Gina, Dave, or Shawn McElroy should you wish to schedule a teacher overview session or discuss OTES 2.0 further. Left: The MRESC Curriculum team readies for a presentation. Below: Click on the picture for a training link.

Professional MRESC Director Team Development Services Give Us a Call! The ESC’s Director Team is a well-informed, & Opportunities highly-skilled group of specialists with a vast range of experiences. Through a wide network of connections with colleagues across the state, relationships with ODE, and memberships in various regional, state, and national organizations, the MRESC team is able to deliver pertinent information and answer specific questions regarding school improvement, professional development, parent engagement, curricular initiatives, and more. Please contact our team if you are interested in customized curriculum services, onsite workshops, professional learning communities, legislative updates, individual or small group coaching, etc. We are interested in helping you develop cost effective options that are aligned to your individual needs. Our phone number is 937-599-5195 or 937-498-1354. • • • • • • • • •

Questions regarding curriculum? Team Email: [email protected] Individual Team Member Emails & Scheduling Links: Bob Batty ([email protected] or https://calendly.com/ bob-batty-mresc) Gina Rogers ([email protected] or https://calendly. com/gina-rogers) Dave Shellhaas ([email protected] or https:// calendly.com/dshellhaas)

Curriculum Team

• • • •

Dave Shellhaas, Director of Curriculum & Science, Social Studies Content Specialist: [email protected] Gina Rogers, Director of Curriculum & ELA Content Specialist: [email protected] Robert Batty, Director of Curriculum & Math Content Specialist: [email protected] Connie Schneider, Director of Special Education: [email protected] Sybil Truster, Director of Administrative Services & Innovative Programs: [email protected] Erica Baer, Director of Student Achievement & Gifted Coordinator: [email protected] Craig Ludwig, Director of Special Education: [email protected] Lori Berger, Director of Early Childhood Education: [email protected] Meaghan Tidwell, Director of Special Education, Indian Lake Local Schools: [email protected] Jeanie Riethman, Director of Student Services (Fort Loramie, Russia, & Hardin-Houston): [email protected] Karen Sorreles, Logan Youth Development Liaison: [email protected] Amy Simindinger, Shelby County Juvenile Court Liaison: [email protected] Shawn McElroy, Executive Director of Organizational Development: [email protected]

Professional Development

The Midwest Regional Educational Service Center’s Curriculum and Professional Development Departments are committed to delivering a wide range of high quality educational services and professional learning opportunities to our aligned school districts and regional partners. The services are designed to provide districts with high quality solutions to their service needs. For more information about upcoming professional development opportunities or curriculum services, please contact a member of our Director team at 937-498-1354 or email Shawn McElroy, Executive Director at [email protected]

Upcoming Events and Save the Date Announcements Preparing Educators for OTES 2.0: A Teacher’s Guide to Collecting and Using Student Data Date: June & August Sessions Available Faculty: MRESC Directors Registration Link: https://www.smore.com/43mva Overview: The MRESC has put together an OTES 2.0 workshop for teachers during the summer of 2021 to focus on the collection and use of data. Interested staff may register for a session at one of our five (5) regional sessions. Please see below for specific dates, times, and locations. What to Expect? This workshop will provide attendees with a brief overview of OTES 2.0, including, but not be limited to: the essential framework, understanding the new performance rubric, requirements regarding the collection and use of data (classroom data and high-quality student data), and tools/resources to help with the analysis of various types of student data. Participants will walk away with key information antools to support their role in the evaluation process. Don’t miss this unique opportunity!

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Bridge Training for OTES 2.0

All existing district evaluators will need to complete OTES 2.0 Bridge training to update their credential. The MRESC (and other ESCs in the state) will be posting Bridge Training dates on or before December 15, 2020**. The MRESC is offering three opportunities: • • •

Option 1 – 2/22 to 2/23 (Face-to-Face) Location: Sidney Board of Education Option 2 – 3/23 to 3/24 (Face-to-Face) Location: Indian Lake Local School Option 3 – 6/1 to 6/2 (Face-to-Face) Location: Sidney Middle School

Click here to access your OH-ID account & STARS https://ohid.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/ohid/login

2021 MRESC Administrative Retreat Date: August 2, 2021 Time: 8:30 am - 3:00 pm Location: Botkins Local School, Botkins, Ohio Tentative Topics: Legislative Update (BASA), Legal Update (Bricker & Eckler) and more

Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) Training

Refresher Trainings (Blended Learning Format) Part 1 Online Modules (Mandatory): June 1 August 2, 2021 Part 2: Physical Skills Sign Off Sessions (Mandatory): August 4 - August 12 Faculty: Craig Ludwig, Jerry Lenhart & Tracy Gregg Registration Process: https://docs.google.com/ document/d/10lcsQr4AETKaXr8iO840su_A0t7_lxgJ4ZTCAkwO4Lo/edit?usp=sharing The MRESC will be offering CPI refresher training for ESC and district personnel this summer using a blended learning model. This is the same model that we utilized last summer. What does the ESC need from each district by 4/1? Please enter your staff information and PO# into the CPI Refresher District Group Registration by

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Form (click on “registration process link” at the bottom of the Page 5) and email a copy to Kim Leach at [email protected] by April 1st. Overview: The “Blended” model for the CPI Refresher training will include the following core pieces: Part 1 - Completion of Online Modules (2 to 3 hours of self-paced/on-demand content) by August 2nd at 11:59 pm. Part 2 - Completion of CPI Physical Skills Sign-Off (75 Minutes Per Session) with a credentialed CPI instructor in August 2021. “Physical Skills Sessions” will ONLY be held if they meet the safety guidelines in place by the State of Ohio (and local Health Departments) for essential personnel in August 2021. Registration Fees: The cost for a Shelby, Logan, or Hardin County public school is $46.50** per person (includes online course and hard-copy manual). **Staff not employed by a Shelby, Logan, or Hardin County public school district, career center, or Board of DD must pay $75 per person.

Initial Certification Trainings The MRESC will be offering the following face-toface CPI initial certification training at the start of the 2021-2022 academic year. Registration will open on 7/1/2021 for these sessions. Date: August 11, 2021 Time: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm (Lunch On Your Own) Location: Bellefontaine High School - Distance Learning Center Instructors: Tracy Gregg & Jerry Lenhart Cost: $46.50 (All Attendees) Date: September 10, 2021 Time: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm (Lunch On Your Own) Location: 129 East Court Street, Sidney, Ohio 45365 Instructor: Craig Ludwig Cost: $46.50 (All Attendees) To register a new staff member for an initial certification training, please visit the MRESC’s PD webpage at https://www.mresc.org/professional-development/ on or after July 1, 2021.

Professional Development

Regional Bus Driver Inservice

(Mark Your Calendar) Date: June 22, 2021 Location: Sidney High School, Sidney, Ohio Flyer & Registration at https://www.smore. com/9kst7 Overview: This year’s training has been modeled after the Advanced Driver Training sessions typically held in partnership with ODE each year. Partic ipants will rotate through five (5) stations c ompleting various driving skills, pre-trip inspections, evacuations, and more. Click on the link listed above to view a copy of the draft event flyer.

School-Based Prevention Education PD Series (SAVE THE DATE)

The MRESC in partnership with area ADAMHS Boards, ODE, and ESCs from the West Central Ohio K-12 Prevention Education Grant Coalition will be offering the following free PD session for educators in Shelby, Logan, and Hardin Counties. 6/3 - Mental Health First Aid (1-Day) Topic/Series: School Based Mental Health/ Prevention/Suicide Prevention Date: June 3, 2021 Time: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm Location: Botkins, Ohio 6/7 & 6/8 - Introduction to Restorative Practices & Using Classroom Circles Effectively Topic/Series: Prevention & SEL Dates: June 7-8, 2021 Time: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm Location: Botkins, Ohio 6/9 - The Responsive Classroom for Music, Art, PE & Other Special Areas Topic/Series: Classroom Management/Prevention/SEL Overview of Training: https://drive.google.com/ file/d/1mvc-bhbG4MEgxNCWjPAQRlLLhOGZx9I-/ view

Professional Development

Time: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm Location: Botkins, Ohio 6/10 (AM Session) - Creating and Sustaining Trauma-Informed Schools Topic/Series: Trauma Informed Schools / Mental Health / Adverse Childhood Events Date: June 10, 2021 Time: 8:30 am – 11:30 am Location: Botkins, Ohio 6/10 (PM Session) - Effective Discipline Techniques for Trauma Victim Students Topic/Series: Trauma Informed Schools / Mental Health / Adverse Childhood Events Date: June 10, 2021 Length: 3 Hours (PM) Time: 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm] Location: Botkins, Ohio 6/11 - Introduction to Responsive Classrooms (K-8) Topic/Series: Classroom Management/Prevention/SEL Date: June 11, 2021 Overview of Training: https://drive.google.com/ file/d/1chnk-jeeSoMEBMmm1iBYclb4UK8I1ozQ/ view?usp=sharing Time: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm

INFOhio’s Book Nook: Teen Tested & Approved

INFOhio’s Book Nook at https://www.infohio.org/ document-library/item/book-nook includes hundreds of student-created book trailers for fiction and nonfiction books grades K–12. Looking for ideas for new book titles to add to your library collection? Find out which books are popular with Ohio’s students and follow the link to browse the new trailers. • Discover new ways to empower students to share what they learned by creating digital storytelling projects aligned to Ohio Learning Standards with Book Nook. • Educators will find recommended web tools, lesson plans, and other resources making it easy to get started with book trailer creation. • Read this Teach With INFOhio blog post, “Pitch the Paper with INFOhio’s Book Nook,” to learn how to use Book Nook with your students in face-to-face, blended, or remote learning classrooms and school libraries. For more information about Book Nook, contact INFOhio at https://support.infohio.org.

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Additional Professional Development Resources COVID-19, and a widespread shortage of substitute teachers, is requiring educators to be more flexible in their identification of professional learning opportunities. Access to quality online professional development during this unique time is one way to continue your personal progress toward becoming the best educator (teacher, administrator, leader) possible for the students and families you serve. Keeping Track of Online Learning: You can track your personal professional learning activities (for sharing with district administration or other stakeholders) by using a google sheet at https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/183ll2mSVA1pK-uqy36gcsgUreU4_KYABn1OGmQIxG0s/copy Remember to check with your LPDC to confirm what activities will be approved for contact hours under your local policies and procedures. The following organizations provide access to online PD for educators. Most options are free, but some courses may require a fee (based on provider guidelines): Visit OLAC @ https://ohioleadership.org

Upcoming Webinars & Sessions of Interest to Principals Facilitating Teacher-based Teams (TBTs): A Live Webinar Presentation and Q&A Date: February 25, 1–3 p.m. Faculty: Dr. Brian McNulty Registration Link: https://docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf1h_ettZJjh1VEA9ZY3Dxr1ItlpU5UR8Xt5FfYtWycwk0YRg/viewform While the ultimate goal for teacher-based teams is about improving student learning, it also has to be abot teacher learning. Both are essential! Join Dr. Brian McNulty for an interactive

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presentation on his webinar, Facilitating Teacher-based Teams, along with live Q&A. Productive team meetings require a person who has the knowledge and skills to facilitate the meeting. Learn more about the core facilitation skills needed to effectively manage a team meeting, as well as specific tips for keeping equity in the forefront. Participants will view the webinar in real-time with Dr. McNulty, and have the opportunity to ask questions along the way during designated breaks. This event is designed for newly assigned facilitators and veteran facilitators who want to refresh and revisit their facilitation skills. Five Things Principals Should Know and Do (Part 1 & 2) Record Date: January 28, 2021 Faculty: Dr. Brian McNulty Principals have a myriad of sometimes competing activities they engage in each and every day. This two-part webinar identifies the five things principals must do have a real impact on student and adult learning. Part 1 addresses how the principal can improve outcomes by focusing the work, and creating a learning culture. Part 2 focuses on team learning and how teams can increase collective capacity through deliberate practice. Advanced Work for Teams (Part 1 & 2) Record Date: November 19, 2020 Faculty: Dr. Brian McNulty Successful teams are those that grow together over time. This two-part webinar will help teams assess their current level of functioning and together build a culture where collaborative professionalism is the norm. Part 1 addresses the four pillars of effective teaming, and the critical role psychological safety plays in team development. Part 2 includes supports that must be in place to develop psychological safety needed to reframe the work of your team, leading to improved outcomes for all learners. Want more information? Visit OLAC @ https://ohioleadership.org

Professional Development

Ohio Department of Education - Learning Management System Click https://safe.ode. state.oh.us/portal/ to Visit ODE LMS Overview: ODEs LMS is designed to provide professional development in a just-in-time manner that fits the needs of all learners. The primary topics are listed below: Topics Include: Formative Instructional Practice Modules (FIP); Becoming Success Bound (Overview of Ohio Means Jobs & Career Resources for All Classrooms; Ohio Teacher Evaluation System, Edcite, & More. The Learning Management System (LMS) for Ohio educators is available anytime and anywhere. The online system provides free courses and professional development on important state education initiatives for teachers and administrators who have active licenses or permits. To access the system go into your OH|ID account (https://safe.ode.state.oh.us/portal ) If you do not have a OH|ID account, create one with your building administrator. EdX Click https://www.edx.org/ search?subject=Education%2520%2526%2520Teacher%2520Training to Visit EdX Overview: Founded by Harvard University and MIT in 2012, edX is an online learning destination and MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) provider, offering high-quality courses from the world’s best universities and institutions to learners everywhere. With more than 90 global partners, we are proud to count the world’s leading universities, nonprofits, and institutions as our members. EdX university members top the QS World University Rankings®

Professional Development

with our founders receiving the top honors, and EdX partner institutions ranking highly on the full list. Topics Include: Math, Literature, Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Music, Business, Management, data analysis, statistics, & much more. Battelle for Kids - Learning Hub Click https://battelleforkids.org/ learning-hub to Visit Battelle’s Learning Hub Overview: Battelle is passionate about collaborating with educators and communities and sharing lessons learned to realize the power and promise of 21st century learning for every student. Their “Learning Lab” provides access to educational blogs, publications, videos, and other free resources to support your work in the classroom, building, or district!

Google Training & Educator Resources Click https://edu.google. com/teacher-center/training/?modal_active=none to Visit Google Teacher Center Overview: Google provides a training center for educators. Courses and tutorials exist for all G-Suite products, deep learning, TeacherTribe Podcast, and more. Google certification options are also available. Certification is broken down into three primary areas: Fundamentals training (Level 1) and Advanced Training (Level 2). By reading, watching videos, and doing activities, you’ll learn how to integrate Google into your classroom. You can start and stop lessons at any time; Google tracks your progress through the course. Successful completion of Level 1 and/or Level 2 training requires completion of an online assessment facilitated by Google. The cost is the responsibility of the educator. Continued on Pg. 19

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Visual Supports for Students with Disabilities BY JEANIE RIETHMAN

What are Visual Supports? A visual support refers to using a picture or other visual item to communicate with a child who has difficulty understanding or using language. Visual supports can be photographs, drawings, objects, written words, or lists. Research has shown that visual supports work well as a way to communicate. Visual supports are used with children who have autism spectrum disorders (ASD), communication disorders, behavior disorders, and other handicapping conditions for two main purposes. The supports help teachers communicate better with the student, and the visual supports help the student communicate better with others. Why are visual supports important? The main features of students with autism are challenges in interacting socially, using language, and having limited interests or repetitive behaviors. Visual supports help in all three areas. First, students with autism may not understand social cues as they interact with others in daily activities. They may not grasp social expectations, like how to start a conversation, how to respond when others make social approaches, or how to change behavior based on unspoken social rules. Visual supports can help teach social skills and help use them on their own in social situations. Second, students with autism disorders often find it difficult to understand and follow spoken instructions. They may not be able to express well what they want or need. Visuals can help teachers communicate what they expect. This decreases frustration and may help decrease problem behaviors that result from difficulty communicating. Visuals can promote appropriate, positive ways to communicate. Finally, some students are anxious or act out when their routines change or they are in unfamiliar situations. Visuals can help them understand what to expect and will happen next

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and also reduce anxiety. Visuals can help them pay attention to important details and help them cope with change.

surrounding transitions by communicating when certain activities will occur throughout the day or part of the day.

First – Then Board What is it? A First-Then Board is a visual display of something your student prefers that will happen after completing a task that is less preferred. When is it helpful? A First-Then Board is helpful in teaching students with autism to follow directions and learn new skills. A First-Then Board motivates them to do activities that they do not like and clarifies when they can do what they like. A FirstThen Board lays the language foundation needed to complete multi-step directions and activities and to use more complex visual systems.

How do I teach it and use it? After the student understands the concept of sequencing activities through the use of a First-Then Board, you can develop a more complex schedule for a series of activities during the day. Decide the activities that you will picture in the schedule. Choose activities that really will happen in that particular order. Try to mix in preferred activities with non-preferred ones. Put on the schedule the visuals (e.g., photos, drawings, written words) that show the activities that you have identified. The schedule can be portable, for example, on a binder or clipboard, or it can be fixed to a permanent place, like a refrigerator or wall. The student should be able to see the schedule before beginning the first activity on the schedule. It should continue to be visible to your child during the rest of the activities. When it is time for an activity on the schedule to occur, cue your student with a brief, verbal instruction. For example, say “Check the schedule.” This helps the student pay attention as the next activity begins. At first, you may need to physically guide the student to check the schedule (e.g., gently guide by shoulders and prompt him/ her to point to the next activity on the schedule). You can gradually decrease physical prompts as he/ she begins to use the schedule more independently. When a task is completed, cue the student to check the schedule again, using the procedure described above, and transition to the next activity. Provide praise and/or other positive reinforcement to the student for following the schedule and for transitioning to and completing activities on the schedule. It may be helpful to use a timer to make transition times. Mix variability into the schedule by introducing a symbol that represents an unknown activity (e.g., “oops” or “surprise activity”). Begin to teach this concept by pairing this with a positive activity or surprise. Gradually use this for unexpected changes in the schedule.

How do I teach it and use it? Decide what task you want your student to complete first (what goes in the “first” box) and the preferred item or activity (what goes in the “then” box) that your student can have immediately after the “first” task is done. This preferred item/activity should be motivating enough to increase the likelihood that the student will follow your direction. Put the visuals on the board (e.g., photos, drawings, written words) that represent the activity you identified. Present the board to the student with a brief, verbal instruction. Try to use the least amount of words possible. For example, before beginning the “first” task, say, “First, put on shoes, then swing.” If needed, refer to the board while the student is doing the task. For example, say “One more shoe, then swing” when student is almost done. When the “first” task is completed, refer back to the board. For example, say “All done putting on shoes, now swing!” and immediately provide the preferred, reinforcing item or activity. In order to teach students with autism the value of the FirstThen Board, you must give them the reinforcing activity or item after they complete the “first” task. Otherwise the student may not trust the board or you as the teacher the next time you use it. Visual Schedule-What is it? A visual schedule is a visual representation of what is going to happen throughout the day or within a task or activity. When is it helpful? A visual schedule is helpful for breaking down a task that has multiple steps to ensure the teaching and compliance of those steps. It is also helpful in decreasing anxiety and rigidity

Shelby County

Pirate Puzzlers BY ERICA BAER

Introducing the Pirate Puzzlers, Riverside schools' after-school, STEAM-focused enrichment. Every Tuesday after school, Gifted Intervention Specialist Andrea Watts leads students in fun, challenging enrichment that encourages students' problem-solving, fluency, and flexibility in thinking while solving problems based in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and/or math. Open to students in grades three through six, challenges have included creating marshmallow/ toothpick towers and boats, seeing how much weight they can hold (Destination Imagination style); creating marble run challenges with the engineering design process; and exploring non-newtonian fluids by making melting snowmen. The students thoroughly enjoy their time learning and growing in STEAM education through this after-school opportunity. Above and below: Students at Pirate Puzzlers.

Try these visual supports in your classroom and you will see an immediate change. Also, use the expertise of your related service providers for support.

Shelby County/Gifted Services

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Ingredients for Opportunity School: High Expectations + Respect = Real World Success BY SYBIL TRUSTER

What does it take to build a successful alternative school that provides comprehensive services to underserved students? The answer is constantly changing. The Opportunity School staff works with each student, designing a personal Learning Plan that monitor’s academics and sets career and/or college goals. The staff includes an Evaluator, Greg Johnson, who collects data, analyzes results, and publishes a Year-End Evaluation. The 2019-2020 evaluation provides a wealth of information from staff, feeder schools, students and parents. The following data highlights the 2019-2020 school year (a full report can be obtained by emailing [email protected]). Ninety-Three students were enrolled in the Opportunity School in which 47 of those students earned the necessary credits and met the requirements for graduation. An additional 41 students earned a “Positive Outcome” for the year. Credit Progress for the 2019-2020 School Year

Spelling Spectacular!

his spelling expertise, staying on until round twelve. Our final two spellers — Chaz and Kara — loth to relinquish the championship, spelled on for three more rounds. Shrike and stalagmite alike proved no match for our sagacious spellers; however, runner-up Kara Klingler found herself vanquished by the traitorous psychiatrist, leaving Chazlance Moore to irreversibly gain the spelling sceptre. (Italicized words were spelled during the competition; underlined words indicate spellers’ championship words – or derivations thereof!) All of our districts’ spellers demonstrated their patent sagacity as well as outstanding sportsmanship throughout the spelling bee. Their hard work and championship attitudes made for a fun and friendly competition! Special thanks to Karen Sorreles – MRESC Logan Youth Development Liaison – for once again creating an excellent event! Many congratulations to all of our awesome Logan County spellers who competed: Thomas Burden, Bryant Carter, Autumn Cline, Czar Dickson, Wyatt Gordon, Kara Klingler, Graham Lotts, Chazlance Moore, Brody Orsborne, Abbigale Scherer, Sloan Stolly, and Mackenzie Stripe. We’re proud of you!

BY ERICA BAER

On Thursday, January 21st, twelve amazing spellers from across Logan County gathered in Indian Lake’s auditorium to compete for the coveted traveling spelling trophy and demonstrate their stupendous spelling skills. The students from across the county — Bellefontaine, Ben Logan, Indian Lake, and Riverside — faced heated competition during 17 rounds of intense competition. Stumped by slimy in round three, our first speller exited, followed closely by spellers in rounds six, nine, and ten eliminated by rely, lairs, and drowsy. Eight contestants spelled on, hurtling over difficulties and relying on their expertise to guide them. Former champion Graham Lotts showcased

Mentoring Program a Partnership with Big Brothers – Big Sisters The mentoring program started with the help of the Career Quest Grant from Big Brothers-Big Sisters and played an important role in the number of credits earned. The 45 students having a mentor earned 317 credits (an average of 7.04 per student) while the 49 who did not have a mentor earned 185.75 credits (an average of 3.79 per student). The mentored student on average earned an extra 3.25 credits during the 2019-2020 school year.

Above: First and Second Place spellers Chazlance Moore (Indian Lake) and Kara Klingler (Riverside). Left: Logan County Spelling Bee

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Gifted Services/Student Achievement

Opportunity School www.mresc.org | 13

AIR End of Course Exams Before and During Enrollment to Opportunity School Testing was limited to the Fall Testing Period (Dec 2019) due to the Pandemic situation with students learning remotely during the spring. As a result, the ODE decided to grant a score for the select subjects based on the EOC grade rather than testing. The number of students earning a proficient level increased greatly due to this temporary change. The following table indicates proficiency rates in the 7 subject areas before enrollment to OppSch and those who earned proficiency during their time in OS.

Cost Effectiveness At its inception the financial conditions of the districts involved with Opportunity School were such that cost effectiveness was in the forefront of the planning process. This same principal continues to drive the program to keep it in existence. By using existing facilities in a “second shift” program, the planning team created a program that functioned at a minimal cost with great success. The 2019-2020 school year cost per pupil per day was $28.26.

Changes/Next Steps Opportunity School is continually evolving. Unproductive students with a negative attitude toward school are the normal traits brought into the OS. Students end up increasing their grade point averages, their number of credits earned, and their attendance rates. For school year 2020-2021 the staff will strive to: • (xx*) represents the number of students who earned proficiency via course grade rather than testing

•

Attendance Rates Upon entry, the average attendance rate (calculated as the number of days present divided by the number of days in session) was 72.4% (Range = 31.1 – 96.7). Attendance measure during enrollment to the OS in 2019-2020 was 92.1% (Range =62.1 – 100.0). The change in the average attendance rate was an increase of 19.7%. Note: The students were present in school for 92 days during the school year and had an additional 36 days of remote/distance learning after the school buildings were closed due to the pandemic.

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14 | In Focus, Winter 2021

Opportunity School

Continue to assess student changes in academic and behavioral arenas as a way of evaluating our programs. Partner with the Shelby County United Way to increase our group, individual, and crisis counseling services. Evaluate the reorganized classroom structure for its success in enabling an administrator to have more time available to keep parents informed and to meet with individual students who are not being productive. Focus on helping students increase their total of credits earned. Students coming into the program with low credit totals do not have much hope in achieving graduation goals but this changes as the credit total increases. Once they reach a point of believing that they can graduate they are much more eager to achieve. Enhance the work study component of the program to include entrepreneurship, employability skills, and increased involvement of students in work study programs. Partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke Counties to build upon the success of the Career Quest Mentoring Program that involves AIR Test preparation, Career Exploration, and Social/Character Issues. Work with data to make professional development plans that will help lead to improvements in the areas included on the EOC tests (Mathematics, English, American History, US Government, and Biology). Locate and use sample EOC Test questions to analyze the curriculum being used. Utilize the Plato system-based on Ohio Standards. Move from SPARK by developing events and other activities to meet the needs of our students who are deficient in Physical Education credit. Review the academic tutoring program for math to evaluate its support of the student’s math needs. CAREER CLASS will continue to include the creation and maintenance of individual portfolios. Continue implementation of a credentialing program in Basic Manufacturing Skills via the SHS Cree, Pathway Programs with the ability to earn college credit from Rhodes State College. Develop at least 2 specific training sessions each semester for parents to increase their understanding of positively dealing with current problems their child may be facing.

Opportunity School

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USV Holiday Fun! BY CRAIG LUDWIG

HTM Christmas! BY MEAGHAN TIDWELL

Indian Lake's corporate neighbors are continuing their Christmas tradition of heaping love on our students with disabilities. Associates of Honda Transmission Manufacturing recently delivered Christmas cheer to every child in all three Students With Disabilities Cross Categorical classrooms at Indian Lake Schools. HTM employees brought special gifts for all the SWD students at ILHS, ILMS and ILES. This is the sixth year in a row for the outpouring of holiday generosity. You could see the joy on their faces as several students opened brand new books, stuffed animals and Laker sweatshirts along with other personal gifts like legos and video games. They also each received gifts for boys and girls, like athletic equipment and makeup, along with blankets for the winter. In addition, the Facilities and Ferrous Division at HTM also worked with ILES Guidance Counselor Suzy Mallory to donate needed socks and underwear for any elementary student who needs them. They called it the "Seats and Feets" project.

Hardin County students celebrated the Christmas with a variety of activities! They started off with a Polar Express reading with Mrs. Swartz. Students participated in the story by using picture cards to retell the story. They next made their way to the cookie decorating table where they made their own ugly sweater cookies! Finally they moved on to the stocking decorating table where they used glitter, pompoms and other decorations to make their own stocking. Students enjoyed subs and chips from Subway for lunch and then enjoyed watching the movie “Polar Express.” The students in the high school classroom at Upper Scioto Valley spent time learning about the history of gingerbread and gingerbread houses. They learned about where it originated from many years ago and common uses for gingerbread. The students were then able to make their own gingerbread house. Students took the time to design how they were going to build their house, what types of ingredients they would use and how they think their house would stand up. Students then put their plan into action and made their home. They looked great! Below: Students decorate ugly sweater cookies. Below left: OSU Tailgate Below right: A student builds a gingerbread house.

Buckeye Spirit! BY CRAIG LUDWIG

The students in the Hardin County celebrated their team allegiance to Ohio State during a classroom tailgate party on Monday, January 11, 2021. The students were able to experience a true tailgate party with refreshments, games, and football! Students enjoyed lunch from McDonald’s, football bingo, prizes and the movie “The Game Plan.”

16 | In Focus, Winter 2021

Logan County/Hardin County

Supporting Children and Families with Autism

MRESC Implements Family & Community Engagement Program

BY LORI BERGER

BY AMY SIMINDINGER

The Midwest Regional ESC Early Childhood program staff recently participated in a virtual professional development conference focused on challenging behaviors. Dr. Jessica Branch, owner of Branch and Blossom Atelier, assistant professor in the Department of Early Childhood and Elementary Education and director of the IECE program for Murray State, provided instructional strategies for preschool staff to use when encountering difficult behaviors. Discussions around collecting data to analyze root causes of behaviors as well as interventions to support children were had by all staff. Preschool staff will participate in additional professional development focused on supporting children and families with Autism with Nichole Dearth, Occupational Therapist for MRESC, in February. Within the classrooms, preschool staff have connected with their students and families through additional engagement events outside of the classrooms. Liberty Village preschool hosted a gingerbread making event with grandparents as well as a voting event that coincided with the presidential election. Northern Lights Preschool hosted a “Disguising Mat Man” event that demonstrated to parents’ strategies used within the classroom to promote early writing skills. Victory Garden hosted a canvas painting event for families. Little River provided a Mat Man activity to focus on pre-writing skills as well. This spring we will be hosting a “Challenging Behaviors 101” family education event for all families in our preschool program. Moving into the Spring, preschool staff are beginning preparations for developmental screenings for families interested in preschool for the 2021-2022 school year as well as kindergarten transitions. Preschool screenings will be held the week of March 1. While the format may be a little different this year, we are excited in the amount of interest we are already seeing from families.

The MRESC is pleased to welcome Holly Frey to our team. Holly was recently hired as a Family and Community Engagement Liaison. Funded by a grant from the Ohio Department of Education and supported by The Ohio State University’s Ohio Statewide Family Engagement Center, the liaison program is designed to build capacity at an ESC and district level to identify, engage, support and ultimately meet the needs of Ohio’s most vulnerable students and their families. Specific populations have been identified as perceived to be disproportionately affected by COVID 19 and other factors that can negatively impact educational achievement. These populations include students with disabilities, English learners, migrants, justice involved youth, military families, homeless youth and foster youth. As learning was shifted to remote based programs in 2020 due to COVID, there was a distinct decline in family engagement, both with school programming and community-based resources. While many districts have returned to in-person or hybrid learning, there is a still a gap in access and utilization for families who opted to remain remote and families who have returned to in-person learning but struggle due to the impact of the last year. Initial efforts for the program include gathering and building a database of resources throughout our ESC service area and the state, identifying gaps in available resources, and collaborating with other liaisons throughout Ohio. The program is also tasked with conducting a needs assessment and gap analysis for existing and needed services and supports. Future endeavors include professional development for districts to best support at risk students and families and assisting families in

Early Childhood

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connecting to established systems of care. Holly is a Licensed Social Worker and a licensed educator. She came to the Midwest Regional ESC from Hardin County Children Services where she was a caseworker. Holly taught at Our Lady of Consolation School in Carey, Ohio and was a substitute teacher for Riverdale Local Schools for several years. Holly worked part-time for the Forest-Jackson Public Library for a total of 10 years. She has also worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Central Ohio out of the Hardin County office. Holly’s passion is working with families and having the opportunity to help, support, and teach

The slides showcase not only career opportunities but also “E” choices of current and past students.

The following websites and blogs provide great Google Certification supplemental resources:

Open to the Public!

3E, Hot Jobs & Career Speakers for Local Youth

We are Located at... Hardin County Office 222 W. Carrol Street Kenton, OH 43326 Phone: (937) 599-5195 x 3010 Fax: (937) 599-1959

BY KAREN SORRELES

Opportunities abound for students seeking careers in Logan County. The pandemic has caused our community to partner and be creative in many things. Check out the new 3E website located on the Logan County Chamber Economic Development site. Enrolled: Students can take a virtual tour of countless Colleges/Universities in-state and out-of-state. Enlisted: Links to the Armed Forces webpages, tours, and contacts, including ROTC. Employed: Live link to up-to date “Hot Jobs” for High School students. From this page seekers can see the company, location, position, age requirement and who to contact. Many have one easy click to application. Students are loving the ease of this process. Each option was created to help streamline the students’ path to knowing what their “E” is when they graduate from a Logan County school. https://logancountyohio.com/ed-3e.html In person Career Speakers were not a possibility this year. Following the virtual pathway Zoom speakers were established. In cooperation with Katie Rychener, we are making available speakers for students and teachers to explore with classrooms. These too will be available on the 3E website. High school Slideshows playing near you.

18 | In Focus, Winter 2021

•

The MRESC Board meets the third Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. • at various locations. The public is welcome to attend these meetings. Please see https://www.mresc.org/ governing-board/ for a schedule of • locations. •

individuals to help them be successful.

Continued from Pg. 9

Logan County Office Discovery Center 1973 State Route 47 W. Bellefontaine, OH 43311 Phone: (937) 599-5195 Fax: (937) 599-1959

Desmos Professional Development Click https://learn.desmos.com/webinars to Access DESMOS Webinars

several webinars to help teachers learn and grow with their system.

Gifted: Coaching Calls!

Find Us Online

BY ERICA BAER

www.mresc.org

Find Us on

at

Find Us on

at

Midwest Regional Educational Service Center @MidwestRegionalESC

Youth Development

Shake Up Learning with Kasey Bell https://shakeuplearning.com/ shake-up-learning-show-podcast-with-kasey-bell/Rochford on Demand by Danielle Rochford Edutopia - Meaningful Online PD at Home https://www.edutopia.org/ article/meaningful-summer-pd-home Rochford on Demand by Danielle Rochford https://rochfordondemand.com/webinars/

Overview: Desmos provides multiple learning opportunities for teachers to improve their understanding of the Desmos calculator and the amazing Desmos activity builder system. Additionally Desmos has created and recorded

Shelby County Office 129 E. Court Street Sidney, OH 45365 Phone: (937) 498-1354 Fax: (937) 498-1354

@MidwestRegESC

Control Alt Achieve: Google Certification Resources from Eric Curt https://www.controlaltachieve.com/2016/04/google-educator-checklists.html

As districts near completion of their 60 hours of gifted professional development, the opportunity opens for coaching conversations! These “deeper dives” offer more specific, targeted tools for reaching your learners; options for addressing underachievement and students’ social-emotional needs; and additional opportunities for enriching students’ learning. To schedule a coaching conversation (either in-person or via Zoom), contact Erica: [email protected]

Professional Development

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