1

Submissions:

All submissions should be

emailed to Cissy Stanifer at

staniferm@k12tn.net and

Candida Sullivan at

candidasullivan@yahoo.com.

Requested Format:

Microsoft word documents

(all other formats such

as .pdf files, faxes, or hand

written submissions have to

be reformatted or retyped)

Requested Font:

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Size:

10 or 12 point

Deadline:

The first of every month.

Please keep in my mind any

submission received after the

first may not be included in

that month’s bulletin. If you

are running late, please send

an email to notify us and we

will save room in the bulletin

for your submission.

A Note from the Director of Schools ■ How much homework should students have? ………………………………………………..2

Congratulations ■ Educators Recognized for Thirty Plus Years of Experience………………………………….3

Retirement ■ Retired Teachers Meeting……………………………………………………………………...5

■ Claiborne County Retirees…………………………………………………………………….5

■ Adult Education Wishes Mr. Roger Hansard a Happy Retire-

ment…………………………….5

Professional Development

■ Representation in the Math Class……………………………………………………………...6

■ H1N1 [Swine Flu] Preventative Actions……………………………………………………...6

■ Tennessee Diploma Program Changes………………………………………………………...7

■ Moving E-mail Address Book to Webmail.k12tn.net………………………………………...8

■ What is a 504 plan?.......................................................................................................... ..........8

■ The WIA Youth Program……………………………………………………………………..8

■ Changes in Adult Education…………………………………………………………………...8

■ Professional Development for Best Practices…………………………………………………9

■ The Family Resource Center…………………………………………………………………..9

■ Claiborne High School student Samantha Killion to start-up Teen Trendsetters™, a nationally

award-winning youth mentor program…………………………………………………………10

■ The Music and Art Education Program……………………………….……………………...11

School News and Events ■ Clairfield Elementary School News………………………………………………………….12

■ Ellen Myers Primary School News…………………………………………………………..12

■ Forge Ridge School News…………………………………………………………………...13

■ H.Y. Livesay Middle School News…………………………………………………………13

■ Midway Elementary School News…………………………………………………………...14

■ The Alpha School News…………………………………………………………………….14

■ Springdale Elementary School News………………………………………………………..15

■ Soldiers Memorial Middle School News…………………………………………………….15

■ TNT Primary School News…………………………………………………………………..16

Employee Announcements ■ Ellen Myers Primary School Welcomes New Staff………………………………………….16

■ H.Y. Livesay Middle School Welcomes New Staff………………………………………….16

■ TNT Primary School Welcomes New Staff………………………………………………….16

Important Information ■ Updates and Reminders….………………………………..………………………………….17

■ School Board Meetings Schedule…………………………………………………………….18

Claiborne County Schools

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin

2

A Note from the Director of Schools

How much homework should students have? Dr. C. Eddie Shoffner, Director of Schools

We are getting off to a great start in Claiborne County. Our students are in the classrooms, and our teachers are

teaching. As we start this year, we get to the age old questions – how much time should students spend on homework

each school night, Sunday through Thursday?

Based on being the parent of three children, three very successful adults, serving as a classroom teacher in both ele-

mentary and high school, being a principal in elementary, middle school and high school, talking to many parents and

many students, here is my perspective:

Grade School: One (1) hour maximum

High School: Two (2) hours maximum

College: As much time as is necessary

Parents and educators often disagree on the amount of homework necessary for student success. Some parents and teachers

think that large amounts of homework are necessary for student progress, while others believe that work should be done

while the teacher is present to provide guidance and instruction. Many parents and educators believe that after six (6), seven

(7), or eight (8) consecutive hours in school the students need a break and then limited time at home studying.

In college, classes are split more throughout the day. Hours generally are fewer, so longer homework periods are desirable

and necessary. Most working parents average eight (8) hours a day on the job. After that, many might have a second job and

sometimes have other diversions.

Students deserve the same. That doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t spend any evening time reading or writing as long as some

of it is for fun and not just to fulfill an assignment for the next day. At every grade level, some time in sports, the arts, other

extra circular activities, or on the job business experience is as important as book learning.

Some other views on homework: The kind of homework matters as much as the amount. According to Dennis Van Roekel,

National Education Association president, homework should help students master the subject and spark their imagination

while leaving time for other activities.

Alfie Kohn, author of the Homework Myth, writes don’t just quibble about how much homework. Ask why kids must work a

second shift at home since research finds that homework before high school yields absolutely no benefits.

I’ve always found as a rule of thumb that the student should do ten (10) minutes per grade level, and you can travel that on

up from the first grade to the eighth grade and at the max, that would be an hour and twenty minutes. Some of that time

could be well spent on leisurely reading or some activity involving their parents such as sitting down at a meal with the par-

ents and discussing their homework.

In high school, I still will stick to the two hour maximum. I believe that most homework should be supervised by the teachers,

and the teacher needs to help and guide students to insure homework is being completed accurately. Homework should be

given only after the teacher has determined that the student completely understands the concept addressed on homework

assignments. A great emphasis should be placed on vocabulary.

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

3

Congratulations

Educators Recognized for Thirty Plus Years of Experience Dr. Janet Barnard

Claiborne County Educators with thirty plus years experience with the Claiborne County School System were recog-

nized at the August 3, 2009 county-wide in-service program, held at Claiborne High School. As the thirty plus years edu-

cators’ names were called and projected onto the stage screen at the front of the multipurpose room at CHS, these educa-

tors were presented with a certificate and a service pin commemorating their years of devoted service to the school sys-

tem. The total years of service, represented by this distinguished group of thirty plus years educators, amounted to 1782

cumulative years of work with the Claiborne County School System. The following is a list of educators honored at this

ceremony:

Teresa Adams 30 years Jodi Kennedy 31 years

Larry Anderson 35 years Nila McNew 36 years

Myra Anderson 35 years Linda Mundy 38 years

Pauline Ausmus 43 years Neta Munsey 32 years

Dr. Janet Barnard 35 years Herbert Parks 33 years

Lynn Barnard 37 years Dan Pearman 36 years

Vivian Barnard 32 years Warren Pearson 35 years

Alice Bolinger 39 years Troy Poore 35 years

Wade Breeding 33 years Dan Redmond 32 years

Alice Brooks 31 years David Redmond 32 years

Dennis Buchanan 36 years Stephanie Redmond 34 years

Pat Buis 35 years Rebecca Reece 35 years

Brenda Bundren 30 years Boyd Rowe 30 years

Eula Bundren 31 years Eddie Don Rowe 30 years

Sue Carter 37 years Sharon Rowe 31 years

Cathy Chumley 30 years Phyllis Sandefur 39 years

Linda Claiborne 30 years Myra Kim Seals 32 years

Jean Cline 30 years Mary Smith 34 years

Geraldine Coffey 36 years Portia Smith 30 years

Helen Smith Coleman 31 years Jan Snodgrass 31 years

Vickie Coleman 32 years Mary Stanifer 33 years

Jeanne Crutchfield 30 years Kathy Sulfridge 30 years

Olivia Davis 37 years George Surber 32 years

Sherry Downing 30 years Peggy Thorton 31 years

Dennis Edwards 33 years Rex Tuttle 34 years

Teresa Epperson 34 years Joan Webb 36 years

Elizabeth Fugate 33 years Jim Welch 39 years

William Gilbert 32 years Linda Welch 38 years

Roger Hansard 36 years Trent Williams 37 years

Sandra Keck 37 years

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

4

Pictured left to right: Sam Owens, Chairman of Claiborne County Board of Education; Pauline Ausmus, Kindergarten Teacher at

Powell Valley Elementary School—43 years of experience in Claiborne County; Dr. Eddie Shoffner, Director of Schools; Early Per-

kins, Principal at Powell Valley Elementary School

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...

A quote from Andy Rooney of the Sunday night TV program 60 minutes was read as a tribute to the Claiborne County thirty plus

years educators. Rooney, who has a knack for using a few words to make a big point, said the following about teachers.

―Teachers who have plugged away at their jobs for twenty, thirty, and forty years are heroes. I suspect they know in their hearts

they’ve done a good thing and are more satisfied with themselves than most people are. Most of us will end up with no more than

five or six people who remember us. Teachers have thousands of people who remember them for the rest of their lives.‖

Congratulations to the educators honored at this event. The lives you have impacted will serve as a memorial to your service.

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

5

Retirements

Retired Teachers Meeting Teresa Ball

The Alpha School had the pleasure of hosting The Retired Teachers Meeting on August 11, 2009. Mr. Robert Zeigler gave invoca-

tion to members and guest followed by an enjoyable lunch shared together. He introduced Amy Drittler, MS Associate Director of

Marketing and Public Relations from LMU DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, as the Speaker. Drittler gave an overview to

the group of the classes offered and students enrolled from Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. You can contact Amy at

amy.drittler@lmunet.edu. The Claiborne County Retired Teachers Association meets the second Tuesday of each month, with the

exception of January and February.

Claiborne County Retirees Rebecca Reece

Betty Brewer 23 years Powell Valley Elementary School

Joy Burchett 29 years H.Y. Livesay Middle School

Barbara Bundren 33 years TNT Primary School

Helen Coleman 31 years Ellen Meyers Primary School

Teresa Epperson 34 years Claiborne High School

Rebecca Falce 30 years TNT Primary School

Roger Hansard 36 years Central Office

Sam McCollough 38 years Central Office

Neta Munsey 32 years Claiborne High School

Troy Poore 35 years Cumberland Gap High School

Myra Kim Seal 32 years Powell Valley Elementary School

Kenneth West 33 years Central Office

Patricia Buis 35 years Soldiers Memorial Middle School

Geraldine Coffey 36 years Claifield Elementary School

Adult Education Wishes Mr. Roger Hansard a Happy Retirement Donna Lewis

Adult Education would like to wish Mr. Roger Hansard a happy retirement! Mr. Hansard will be missed by the staff as well as stu-

dents coming back for this school year, but ―We wish him well.‖

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

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Professional Development and New Programs

Representation in the Math Class Dr. Janet Barnard

Welcome back to school! A new school year means the start of our K-8 Afterschool Math Workshops. As we enter Year 2 of our

district math initiative, we will be focusing on the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Process Standards. In the

new state math standards, the Process Standard is the first standard at every grade level K-12.

One of the Process Standards is Representation. What is Representation and why should we include Representation in our mathemat-

ics instruction? Representation is when we ask our students to represent their problem solving process in the form of a picture, graph,

chart, array, model, etc. It is a way for the teacher to see if the student really understands the mathematical calculation or procedure

he/she has followed to get the solution.

Think of effective math instruction proceeding from the Concrete to Representation to Abstract (CRA). In other countries that sur-

pass us in mathematics achievement, this adherence to the CRA progression is a must. However, in U.S. mathematics instruction, we

tend to go straight from the concrete to the abstract, skipping this vital representation stage. In other words, we will allow young chil-

dren to use manipulatives (concrete) to solve their math problems in the early grades, but we tend to rush them toward the standard

algorithm (abstract) as quickly as we can. We entirely skip the representation stage.

So what might this CRA progression look like in the math classroom? To use an example from the early primary grades consisting of

teaching the basic addition facts to ten, the teacher would first allow the students to use manipulatives (counting bears, buttons, pop-

sicle sticks, etc.) to solve the addition problems; this is the Concrete Stage. Next, when the teacher determines that it is time to fade

the concrete support based on the students’ performance, then the teacher would ask the students to draw something that represents

the manipulatives; the students could draw sticks, circles, or whatever makes sense to the student. This is the Representation Stage.

The teacher should have the students represent their solutions until the teacher determines that the students truly understand the

mathematical procedure that are being asked to perform. Then the Representation Stage will give way to the standard algorithm, the

Abstract Stage, without any concrete and/or representational support.

Another example of Representation from the late primary/early intermediate grades would be having students draw an array when

first learning their basic multiplication facts. Still another example would be having students to make a diagram or develop a chart to

aid them in solving multistep written problems.

Will including this Representation Stage in my mathematics instruction take more time? Yes, but the benefits will outweigh the time

sacrifice. By assigning fewer problems but having the students to do the representation on strategic teacher-selected problems, you,

as the teacher, will know that your students really understand the mathematical procedures they are being asked to perform!

H1N1 [Swine Flu] Preventative Actions Ritchie Hoskins

Claiborne County Board of Education and schools will be offering the regular Flu Mist to students through Cherokee Health Systems

and the H1N1 [Swine Flu] vaccination to all students through the Health Department. The Claiborne County Board of Education has

also purchased foggers that kill flu bacteria, staff infection, HIV and mold. The foggers will be used in all schools and buses.

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

7

Tennessee Diploma Program Changes Ann Shipley

The beginning of each school year brings new challenges for teachers, administrators, and students. At the same time we are given

the opportunity to set and achieve goals for the students that we serve as educators. This year we are faced with a change that pre-

sents both a challenge and an opportunity.

This year the Tennessee Diploma Program changes the graduation requirements for high school entering ninth graders, our gradu-

ates of 2013. These students begin a new path with increased graduation requirements from 20 credits to 22, a focus on the skills

needed for college and the workforce in an ever expanding global economy. As you can see below the changes will be an additional

Math credit, one half credit in Physical Education, and one half credit in Personal Finance. In addition to the changes in the credits

there will be a requirement that all students must have an elective focus of three credits.

Secondary assessments will also change for these entering 9th graders with Gateway Exams being replaced by end-of-course exams

that truly test the mastery of expectations leading to college- and work-readiness. The overall assessment system includes the ACT’s

College and Readiness Test, Explore (given in the 8th grade) and the PLAN College Readiness Test given in the 10th grade. The

ACT is given to 11th grade students.

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

Tennessee Graduation Requirements

Basic High School Requirements

for those graduating prior to 2013 Requirements for Students Beginning High School in Fall 2009

TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED:

20 TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED: 22

MATH: 3 Credits Including either Geometry or Alge-

bra II

MATH: 4 Credits Including Algebra I, II, Geometry and a fourth higher level math course

SCIENCE: 3 Credits Including one physical science

course and Biology

SCIENCE: 3 Credits Including Biology, Chemistry or Physics, and a third lab course

ENGLISH: 4 Credits ENGLISH: 4 Credits

SOCIAL STUDIES: 3 Credits SOCIAL STUDIES: 3 Credits

WELLNESS: 1 Credit PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND WELLNESS:

1.5 Credits

PERSONAL FINANCE: .5 Credits

ELECTIVE: 6 Credits

FOREIGN LANGUAGE: 2 Credits

FINE ARTS: 1 Credit May be waived for students not going to a University to expand and enhance the elective

focus

ELECTIVE FOCUS: 3 Credits Math and Science, Career and Technical Education, Fine Arts, Humanities, Advanced

Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB)

8

The challenge is to provide every high school student with the opportunity to graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to

become productive lifelong learners ready to transition into the next phase of their life, whether it is a training program, college,

technical school, or entrance into the work force. It is our charge to remove as many barriers as possible to that process.

Moving E-mail Address Book to Webmail.k12tn.net Mary Thompson

The quickest ways to move your email address book is to export your address book to a CSV file then import it into the web-

mail.k12tn.net address book. Follow the directions on your third party email account on exporting addresses. It needs to be a CSV

file. On webmail.k12tn.net, go to the address book, scroll down to Address Book Import, Click on Import CSV file, then follow the

instructions.

What is a 504 plan? Rebecca Reece

The ―504‖ in ―504 plan‖ refers to section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the American with Disabilities Act, which specifies that

no one with a disability can be excluded from participating in federally funded programs or activities, including elementary, secon-

dary or post secondary schooling. ―Disability‖ in this context refers to a ―physical or mental impairment which substantially limits

one of more major life activities.‖ This can include physical impairments; illnesses or injuries; communicable diseases; chronic con-

ditions like asthma, allergies, and diabetes; and learning problems. A 504 plan spells out the modifications and accommodations that

will be needed for these students to have an opportunity to perform at the same level as their peers, and might include such things as

wheelchair ramps, blood sugar monitoring, an extra set of textbooks, a peanut-free lunch environment, home instruction, or a tape

recorder, or keyboard for taking notes.

The WIA Youth Program Gary Hansard

The Claiborne County WIA Program is up and running for the beginning of the 2009-2010 school year. There have been twenty-

four students from the summer program moved to the year round program, and most of these students are now involved in their stud-

ies and working part time through-out Claiborne County. Students are placed in private business and not-for-profit agencies.

In May of 2009 the WIA Youth Program had 21 seniors to graduate from Claiborne High School, Cumberland Gap High, and the

GED program. These students are now working and/or attending L.M.U, W.S.C.C., TN. TECH.,U.T., E.T.S.U., and S.E.C.C. Con-

gratulations seniors and may you be very successful in your future career endeavors. If you have questions about the WIA Youth

Program, you may contact Gary Hansard at 423-626-3543.

Changes in Adult Education Donna T. Lewis

There are new faces in place within Adult Education. Mr. Trent Williams is now acting supervisor, Mr. Troy Poore is Outreach De-

veloper, and Mrs. Donna Lewis is now Coordinator. Mr. Williams brings many years of experience to the program and he hopes to

be able to depend on the well experienced staff to continue the day-to-day running of the program with him overseeing it.

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

9

Mr. Poore brings to the program his many years of leadership and plans to add to Adult Ed.'s numbers by offering classes in the jail

and factories and also bringing in new students to the program. Mrs. Lewis brings with her 11 years of experience in Adult Ed. She

will be over-seeing the daily running of the program and helping to set up new classes, as well as some of her past responsibilities,

such as working with C.M.I. and Title VI. With the addition of Mr. Williams And Mr. Poore, Adult Ed. hopes to surpass any goals

the state has put before them. The program ended the '08-'09 school year with 230 people being served with 45 of those receiving

their GED and 2 High School diplomas. From this number 14 entered post-secondary education and 5 entered some type of employ-

ment they were not able to obtain before, while 65 were able to retain their present employment.

With all the changes, Adult Ed. is looking forward to having a great year. Classes being offered are as follows: Adult High School,

GED, Adult Basic Education, Basic Skills Computer, Post-secondary readiness, Literacy for the non-reader, and Life Skills. They

also can help with computer needs within a business. If you or someone you know has a need that you think Adult Ed. can help with,

please call 424-626-8222. In the Clairfied area call Bonnie Overton at 423-784-6052. All classes are free, and they can always use

volunteers to help with tutoring.

Professional Development for Best Practices Tami Maples

To meet the new Math initiative set forth by the Claiborne County School System, Springdale and Forge Ridge Elementary Schools

are working together to provide ―Best Practices‖ in professional development. Dr. Janet Barnard will be conducting the first two ses-

sions on September 10 and September 28, with several others to follow throughout the school year.

The first session will deal with Representation, which is the process of using models to organize, record, and communicate mathe-

matical ideas, as well as selecting, applying, and translating these models to solve problems and interpret mathematics. The models

can be used to ―show‖ math, through the use of manipulative materials, diagrams, graphical displays, and symbolic expressions.

Representation also includes internalizing or taking in mathematical ideas and understanding them.

The second session will deal with Connections, which shows students how math is used in other academic subjects such as science,

history, art, and music. It also introduces students to technology through the use of computers and graphic calculators and requires

team projects that will build the students' communication skills. Using these real problems, students can see how math is used every

day in the working world instead of asking, 'What am I ever going to use this for?'"

Through our method of implementing professional developments, Springdale Elementary and Forge Ridge Elementary are not only

able to attend ―best practice in professional developments‖ but also build ―professional communities‖ where teachers work together,

design, implement, and build a community for higher standards in student learning.

The Family Resource Center Teresa Ball

The Family Resource Center is excited to start the new school year. We are looking forward to assisting our pre-k program with the

planning of field trips and other activities. The Family Resource Center continues to distribute car seats to eligible families. Since

July 1, 2009, 23 car seats have been given to Claiborne County families. If you know anyone who may need a car seat for their

child, please contact Deb Tong, Director 423-626-1188 or tongd@k12tn.net.

Other Services provided at The Family Resource Center:

CPR and First Aid training offered through The American Red Cross. This training is available to anyone who needs to be

certified. Contact person is Teresa Ball at 423-626-1188 or ballt3@k12tn.net.

September 15, 2009

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Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

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The Claiborne County School System Homebound Program Administrative Offices are located at The Family Resource

Center. Contact person is Elizabeth Fugate at 423-626-1188 or fugatee1@k12tn.net.

The Substitute Training Class is scheduled the second Monday of each month. The class starts at 8:30 am and will be held

at the Central Office Boardroom. Contact person is Warren Pearson at 423-626-1188 or pearsonw@k12tn.net.

Claiborne High School student Samantha Killion to start-up Teen Trendsetters™, a nationally award-

winning youth mentor program (-Teen led program underwritten by grant from Volunteer USA Founda-

tion-) Lori Duncan TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Samantha Killion, a student at Claiborne High School is among just 30 students from across the

southern United States named as a new Lead Teen for the Teen Trendsetters™ Reading Mentor program. The prestigious youth

mentoring program pairs high school students with second and third-graders, who struggle with reading, for one-on-one weekly ses-

sions. The goal is to bring the joy of reading to all students, improving the basic reading skills of the younger students and nurturing

the volunteer spirit among youth leaders.

"Teen Trendsetters™ is a program that exists because of the passion and big hearts of thousands of teens in the U.S.," said Liza

McFadden, president of Volunteer USA Foundation which manages the program. ―Volunteer USA believes that strong readers will

do well on standardized testing and in school. We’re committed to helping find innovative ways to ensure that children are reading

on grade level, and we’re proud of the thousands of teen volunteers who commit their talents to this effort.‖

In July, Samantha and the school advisor from the partner Midway Elementary school, Lori Duncan, received an all-expenses paid

trip to Orlando to attend the national training summit which included a half-day of relaxation at Universal Orlando. Volunteer USA

Foundation provides to each Teen Trendsetters™ program, training for teens, a stipend for an adult advisor, curriculum for each

mentor and mentee, over 15 take-home books for each mentee, and more.

Lead Teens were selected based on teacher recommendations, personal essays and a passion for volunteerism. When school is back

in session, Lead Teens will recruit approximately 15-20 classmates to become exceptional youth reading mentors to elementary stu-

dents in a neighboring school. ―I want to be a Teen Trendsetter to help encourage kids to read,‖ said Samantha. ―Being a good reader is one of the most important

things for our future.‖

Teens participating in the program say the benefits they get in return are priceless:

They feel good about helping younger students improve their reading skills,

They intend to continue volunteering their time beyond the high school years

They enjoy earning community service hours which are required on many college and scholarship applica-

tions 89% of Teen Trendsetters™ who are seniors report they have been accepted to attend college In Florida, where the program first began, 72% of Teen Trendsetters™ report earning a state-funded college

scholarship compared to 39% of their peers

Teens Trendsetters™ is a youth-driven program first launched in Florida in 2002 with just 30 teens. It is now changing lives for high

school and elementary students in 11 states including Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South

Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.

Approximately 3,000 high school students attending 150 schools will be volunteering in Trendsetters programs during the 2009-2010

academic year.

September 15, 2009

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Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

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The Teen Trendsetters™ is supported by pri-

vate businesses and donors committed to edu-

cation and youth mentoring; sponsors include

Comcast, State Farm, AAA Auto Club South

and Universal Orlando.

For more information on supporting or starting

a Teen Trendsetters™ Reading Mentors pro-

gram, please visit www.teentrendsetters.org

and www.volunteerusafoundation.org.

The Music and Art Education Program Candida Sullivan

The new Music and Art Education Program implemented for the 2009-2010 school year is off to a great start. Participation and inter-

est in the feeder schools is astounding; while there is definitely room for improvement, the promise of young talent is impressive.

They are learning how to read and write the music before actually playing any instruments. At the feeder schools, the primary goal is

to introduce the fundamentals of music while enjoying playing it, too. There are several musical programs scheduled around the

Christmas season, including both the feeder schools as well as the high schools.

With enrollment at approximately 35 students, Claiborne High School does have a marching band this year. They have already per-

formed at three games so far and look forward to many more. Mr. Disney, the Music and Art Education Coordinator at Claiborne

High School and its feeder schools, is hoping to establish a good stable enrollment in the next few years and add even more opportu-

nities for students. He hopes to have a percussion ensemble as well as a jazz/rock band in the near future.

While the numbers at Cumberland Gap High School are still not broad enough to have a marching band, Ms. Jolley, the Music and

Art Education Coordinator at Cumberland Gap High School and its feeder schools, has come up with a new alternative that is both

fun to learn and crowd pleasing. Making their debut performance September 18, they will perform a program called Trashy

Rhythms. The students along with Ms. Jolley actually wrote the music and designed the chorography out of their own creativity with

no additional money spent. Ms. Jolley hopes to get students interested in music and eventually have a full marching band as well as

a guitar ensemble.

Mr. Dale Disney received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Tennessee Tech in Cookeville, Tennessee. He received

his Master’s Degree in Musicology from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Mr. Disney lives in the Halls area with his wife,

Cari (who teaches Art at Knox County Schools) and his sixteen month old daughter, Emma. Percussion is his favorite instrument. He

is originally from the Strawberry Plains area.

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Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

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Ms. Katrina Jolley received her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee. Originally from

Chattanooga, Ms. Jolley now lives in the Shawnee area. Percussion is her favorite instrument and the one she has spent the most time

studying and playing. She has an extensive background in dance. She loves to play and learn new musical instruments and enjoys

anything related to arts and crafts.

School News and Events

Clairfield Elementary School News Jennifer Griffin

Food on Foot Organization Comes to Clairfield

On Friday, August 28 the Food on Foot Organization came to our school to give students free backpacks and school supplies. Our

students are very appreciative of this organization. In addition to the Food on Foot

Organization, we also had many other visitors such as Board Member Sam Owens, Board Member Dave Chesney, Sheriff David

Ray, County Commissioner Jimmy Hatmaker, and Channel 8 News.

Future Events at Clairfield

Our annual Fall Festival will be on Friday, October 2. Our Fall Break will be October 12 - 16.

Clairfield Academics

Several of the classes have science displays in the hallway of plant and animal cells. Students have worked very hard on these and

are very proud of their work. We have had a great start and we look forward to an outstanding year.

Joke of the Month:

Miss Jones had been giving her second grade students a lesson on science. She had explained about magnets and showed how they

would pick up nails and other bits of iron. Now it was question time so she asked, "My name begins with the letter 'M' and I pick up

things. What am I?" A little boy in the front row proudly said, "Your a mother!"

Ellen Myers Primary School News Cynthia Stephens

Ellen Myers celebrated the beginning of the new school year with a Family Literacy Luau & Orientation night on Tuesday, August

11. Approximately 220 parents, students, and faculty members enjoyed music, refreshments, door prizes, family portraits, and im-

portant information for parents on making their child’s school year a success.

We are planning our Grandparent’s Day luncheons on September 9 and 10. Grandparents will be invited to eat lunch with their

grandchildren and meet their teachers.

Honor Roll and Perfect Attendance incentives planned for the first six weeks will be ―Picnic in the Park.‖ All students with perfect

attendance and those on the honor roll will be treated to a day of fun and games at Harrogate City Park .

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Ellen Myers faculty/staff Relay for Life team is involving students in raising money for this great cause. There will be a mini walk

on the city’s walking trail on Friday, August 21. Students will collect donations from sponsors for the walk. They will also be mak-

ing paper chains which may be purchased for $.25. The purpose is to try to reach around the building with the chains. The chains

will also be used the night of the official Relay for Life walk.

Fourth graders in Mr. Hatfield’s science class acquired hands-on experience in The Design Process and Scientific Method by build-

ing bridges. Students worked together in groups using straws, tape, paper clips, construction paper, rubber bands and a cup. The

bridge was required to hold a cup filled with 20 quarters in order to ―pass the test.‖ Submitted by: Aaron Hatfield

Ellen Myers Third graders started the year out with ―Wacky Watermelon Week.‖ Students engaged in ―wacky‖ activities involving

songs, poems, and stories about watermelons. The week ended with a Wacky Watermelon party with watermelon for all!

Submitted by: Becky Asher, Mitzi Schneider & Dale Brooks

Forge Ridge School News Marty Cosby

Forge Ridge Hosted Open House

Forge Ridge School hosted their Open House on Thursday, August 20, 2009. Parents were invited to tour the school, visit their

child's classrooms, and meet with the teachers. Parents and faculty then gathered in the cafeteria to discuss the school's web page:

www.claibornecountyschools.com/forgeridge, the afterschool program, and how the new state standards will impact our teaching

and the curriculum. The evening came to a close with refreshments being served and door prizes.

Forge Ridge Hosts Mission of Hope

Forge Ridge School hosted the wonderful volunteers from the Mission of Hope on Friday, August 21, 2009. The volunteers greeted

all of the children as they entered the gym. The children were then entertained with a magic show and then went by grade with the

volunteers helping them to select school supplies for each age group. The volunteers were then treated to lunch by Mr. Cosby. They

left each teacher a very nice gift bag with wishes for a very good year.

H.Y. Livesay Middle School News Angela Bisceglia

Teachers Attend Summer In-Services

Always looking to improve test scores and expand our educational knowledge, several teachers attended workshops this summer.

Ms. Joan Webb attended Agriculture in the Classroom in Knoxville, TN. This was a comprehensive inservice on language arts, math,

science, social studies, and technology. Ms. Webb along with Ms. Vicki Cavins attended a workshop on life skills in Oak Ridge, TN.

Ms. Marilyn Slusher attended the second summer session on Tennessee standards for science. All of these ladies will share the

knowledge from these classes with fellow teachers and students during the year.

Livesay Joins the Fight for a Cure

For the first year, H.Y. Livesay joined the Relay for Life team on August 28. Ms. Sherry Wilson, the leader of our team, is a member

of our faculty and also a three-year cancer survivor. T-shirts and bracelets were sold to raise money for the Cancer Society. This

walk reminds everyone in our building what an important cause this is and helps to raise awareness for all. We’re proud of you,

Sherry!

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Coach Prepares for Upcoming Season

Coach Clawson attended the Tennessee Middle School Athletic Association (TMSAA) in preparation for the new season. Coaches,

administrators, and athletic directors met to discuss the important issues that had been brought to their attention. The discussions

involved were student eligibility, coaching requirements, ineligible athletes, physical forms, TMSAA dead periods, heat policy, re-

peating rule change and the recruiting rule. Incorporating these issues along with good sportsmanship will be a great start to our

basketball season.

Midway Elementary School News Lori Duncan

Midway Elementary School Open House

Midway Elementary School held its open house on Thursday, August 6, 2009. All students, parents, and families were invited to

meet new teachers and to get acquainted with the school. An assembly was held in the gym. Each teacher introduced themselves and

described how they would be helping students. Parents and students were given an opportunity to ask questions and discuss any con-

cerns. Refreshments were served and many old and new friends were made. The event was very successful with many in attendance.

Midway Continues UT's "HABIT" RUFF Reading Program in First Grade

Midway's Literacy Leader, Lori Duncan, would like to announce that the Ruff Reading Program will continue in the first grade class-

rooms this year. The "HABIT" (Human Animal Bond in Tennessee) program is approved and recognized by the University of Ten-

nessee's College of Veterinary Medicine. Sadie our first therapy dog will continue to visit Mr. David Hall, Ms. Carrie Collins, and

Mrs. Kristy Bowen's first grade classrooms once a week for thirty minutes at a time. If any school is interested in starting the Ruff

Reading Program, please contact Lori Duncan at Midway Elementary School or Ruth Sapp at 865-974-5633.

The Alpha School News Teresa Ball

Pre-k Program

Our pre-k staff has been working hard to prepare for the new school year. It is always a joy to meet new students and their families.

We have started our year with activities to get to know our students, build relationships, learn the environment, and daily routines.

Each one of our pre-k classrooms holds an open house to give the teachers an opportunity to discuss our curriculum and parent hand-

book. Three different curriculums are used: The Creative Curriculum, Scott Foresman Pre-k Literacy, and the state required per-

sonal safety curriculum Talk about Touching. The pre-k program still has openings at some of our sites. We have openings for chil-

dren who will be 4 on or before September 30 at The Alpha School, Ellen Myers, Forge Ridge, Powell Valley, and Midway. If you

are interested in our pre-k programs, please contact JoAnne Wells at The Alpha School 423-626-3323 or wellsj3@k12tn.net or Eliza-

beth Fugate at 423-626-1188 or fugatee1@k12tn.net.

The pre-k teachers attended training this summer for Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL).

The training modules addressed the social and emotional needs of young children. Teachers learned different techniques for devel-

oping friendship skills, enhancing emotional literacy skills, controlling anger, and problem solving.

We would like to welcome aboard on our crew of teaching staff Jennifer Figueira. Ms. Jennifer is teaching pre-k at Powell Valley.

This will be her first year teaching, and we wish her the best of luck. We also want to congratulate Lisa Ferguson on completing her

EdS of Education in Supervision and Administration. Lisa will be joining the Homebound staff as well as continuing with some pre-

k activities.

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Springdale Elementary School News Tami Maples

Upcoming Events Scheduled for Springdale Elementary Grandparent’s Day Springdale Elementary first grade classes will host Grandparent’s Day on Friday, September 11. Grandparents of first

graders are encouraged to attend this special event for special recognition of their contribution in the education of their

grandchild or grandchildren. It is also an opportunity for the grandparents to get acquainted with the teachers, observe

their grandchild’s work, and receive a special treat in our school cafeteria.

Fall Carnival Springdale Elementary will host their fall carnival on October 2, 2009. We are asking the entire community to join us for

a day and evening celebration with our students, faculty, and staff. We will have exciting rides, activities, and conces-

sions for this special event. Come and join the fun!

Parent/Teacher Conference

Springdale Elementary will have their parent/teacher conference on September 22, 2009 from 4:30-6:30pm, which is the

perfect opportunity for parents to address concerns of their child’s academic learning process.

Soldiers Memorial Middle School News Dr. Vickie Evans

Open House at SMMS

Soldiers Memorial Middle School held Open House on August 6, 2009. The turn out consisted of over 50% of our parent population.

Several parents were interested in becoming a parent volunteer. The atmosphere throughout the building was very positive and was

the beginning of a good start to a great school year.

TNT Primary School News Georgia Rush

Departmentalizing in the Fourth Grade

The 4th grade at TNT has implemented some big changes this year. For the 2009-2010 school year they are departmentalizing for

Reading, Language Arts, Math, Focused Reading, and Science. This schedule will help the students get ready for middle school. It

also allows the teachers to specialize in one particular subject area. Each teacher can focus on the standards for their particular sub-

ject and mastery of each. The teachers will use their common planning time to discuss how the students are doing in each class and

come up with the best plan to meet each individual student’s needs. The students seem to like switching classes every hour as this

makes their day go by faster. This schedule also seems to help reduce behavior problems. Overall the teachers feel that departmen-

talizing is going to help TNT meet AYP in a more efficient manner.

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New Walking Trail at TNT

Second grade teachers and students at TNT are excited to be at school. This year we will begin school with a reading unit on explor-

ing. This is perfect because TNT just received a new walking trail, funded through a grant the school received. Teachers and students

in the second grade will kick off the unit by exploring the new walking trail. We think this is going to be a wonderful start to a great

year! We are all looking forward to learning and exploring new and exciting things.

The third grade students at TNT are walking across Tennessee! They are walking on the new walking trail during recess. Each day

the children are eager to walk the three laps that equal a mile. They report to their teachers when they have walked a mile. The teach-

ers record their mileage on a graph displayed in the hall. After we have walked the 440 miles across Tennessee, we will walk across

America!

Employee Announcements

Ellen Myers Primary School Welcomes New Staff Cynthia Stephens

Ellen Myers is pleased to welcome Lynn Hill to our faculty this year. She received her K-6 degree in Elementary Education from

Tusculum College and her Special Education certification from the University of Tennessee . She worked as Special Education

teaching assistant at S.M.M.S. from August 2003 through December 2008. Lynn is a Claiborne County native who lives in Harro-

gate and enjoys walking, scrap booking, and designing jewelry.

H.Y. Livesay Middle School Welcomes New Staff Angela Bisceglia

We would like to welcome to our Livesay family four new employees. Ms. Ashley Overton will be our 5th grade math and spelling

teacher. Ashley graduated from L.M.U. with a major in elementary education. We feel very fortunate to have her among our faculty.

Ms. Amy Cosby and Ms. Kristie Thomas will be assisting in our Special Education Department. Both ladies work diligently with our

children in making the adjustment to middle school easier. We appreciate the job they do everyday. We would like to also welcome

Ms. Katie Sandifer to our custodial staff. Katie works everyday to keep our building clean and safe for our students and staff. Wel-

come to all these ladies!

TNT Primary School Welcomes New Staff Georgia Rush

TNT welcomes Ms. Rebekah Lefevers Hatfield to our Kindergarten Team. Ms Rebekah is married to Andy Hatfield. They are the

proud parents of Leah age 3 and are expecting another child in February. Rebekah is a graduate of Tusculum University with a BA

in Human Growth and Learning. She has taught First grade and Kindergarten at Midway Elementary. Her hobbies are reading and

shopping.

TNT Kindergarten student’s school year has gotten off to a great start. At the end of the week students enjoyed an afternoon outside

celebration of blowing bubbles and drawing beautiful pictures on the sidewalk with chalk.

TNT Primary School would like to welcome Lucinda Drummonds to Ms. Louisa Beeler’s first grade class. She is a student teacher

from South College in Knoxville. Ms. Lucinda worked at The Alpha School for three and half years and with Americorps—offering

academic support. She attends MCM Baptist Church in New Tazewell. Some of her hobbies include photography and going to the

lake. She is hoping for a job with the Claiborne County School System after graduation.

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Mission Statement

The mission of Claiborne County Schools is to provide our students an opportunity to re-ceive a high quality academic education and career and technical experience which will en-able them to continue their education or enter employment upon graduation from high

school.

Important Information

Updates and reminders

The interview process for Cumberland Gap High School is now complete. Mrs. Linda Keck is now the Princi-

pal for Cumberland Gap High School. Interviews for Clairfield Elementary School will be conducted in the

future. As of now, no official decision has been made concerning Clairfield Elementary School.

The following changes have been made to the school calendar:

The test dates, originally scheduled for the week of March 22-26 have been changed to the week of April 19-

23.

The next school board meeting is scheduled for October 8, 2009, at Claiborne High School.

The principal’s meeting originally scheduled for September 18, 2009, at Central Office has been changed to

September 17, 2009.

The bulletin will be available on the website at www.claibornecountyschools.com. If you wish to receive an

emailed link, please send an email to staniferm@k12tn.net.

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Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools

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School Board Meeting Schedule

2009-2010 School Year

Claiborne High School October 8, 2009

Midway Elementary School November 12, 2009

Powell Valley Elementary School December 10, 2009

Forge Ridge School January 14, 2010

TNT Primary School February 11, 2010

Springdale Elementary School March 11, 2010

Cumberland Gap High School April 8, 2010

Clairfield Elementary School May 13, 2010

Ellen Myers Primary School June 10, 2010

The Alpha School July 8, 2010

All meetings start promptly at 7:00 pm, unless otherwise specified.

September 15, 2009

Volume 1, Issue 1

Administrative Bulletin Claiborne County Schools