PTSA Scholarship Program Enables Students to Attend Community College

In the fall of 2015, the Chapel Hill High School PTSA received a grant for approximately $7,000. During the conversations that followed, the PTSA Executive Board explored a variety of school initiatives that could be developed with that funding. Current president Kirsten Barker said that over the past several years, “The CHHS PTSA has been trying to highlight that we are an organization that supports ALL CHHS students, parents and staff. We felt that a good way to put those words into action would be to focus on students who were continuing to community college, so we could continue to provide support that they would be leaving behind when they left the safety net of high school.”
   
The first scholarships were awarded in the spring of 2016 to five students, to four students in 2017 and four more this spring. To hear the stories and ambitions from the students who have benefited from the fund is to understand how wide and deep the impact has already been.
   
Monicah Atwater, a recipient from the first class of 2016, will receive her Associate in Applied Science degree in Medical Assisting Technology from Alamance Community College on June 8. She has long held the ambition to work in an allied health field. Through her grandmother’s long illness, Atwater learned as much as she could to strengthen her support skills. During that experience, she became committed to further education in medicine, and she has loved the courses at ACC. “Without the scholarship to get started, it would have been completely different,” Atwater said.
   
DohSay Sein received the scholarship as a 2017 CHHS graduate, and his year at Durham Tech has allowed him to focus and define his educational path, well beyond any plans he had considered a year ago. “I would like to say thank you very much for the scholarship that I got from the PTSA. It has really helped me a lot with my school tuition and move forward with my education. I will be able to buy the books and other supplies that I need in each class.”
   
During his first semester, DohSay said he kept changing his mind about what he wants to study, but now he is confident that he would like to earn an Associate in Science degree to prepare for transfer to a four year college. He hopes to pursue a career in Network Security. “The teachers at Durham Tech are very, very nice,” DohSay said. “Every time when I need help with the subject, I can always contact them and make an appointment with them to help me with the subjects that I don’t understand. Overall, I really enjoy learning at Durham Tech, and what I have learned now and in the past, has made a big difference in my life.”
   
Kimberlee Spores is the current chair of the CHHS PTSA Scholarship Program.  She is the "face" of the program now and has developed new ideas to make the work of the committee more professional. Each fall, Spores, Barker and other Executive Board members meet with the most recent class of recipients to check in and hear how they are navigating their first semesters - and to provide guidance and cheerleading, if necessary.
   
The selection process has been fine-tuned by the Scholarship Committee, in consultation with Assistant Principal Anna Hipps and the counseling team at CHHS. Since counselors know which of the seniors hope to attend community college, they have been able to ensure that eligible students not only learn about the scholarships, but that they can provide direction and support to complete the application and secure teacher recommendations.
   
“We pay $500 directly to the school for fall tuition and then a follow-on of another $500 if they re-enroll for spring classes,” Barker said. “We also stay in touch with them and ‘mother hen’ them a bit to make sure they are registering, staying on track, etc…”
   
Linda Cervantes, another of the 2016 recipients, said that the “mother henning” part of the process was invaluable for her. As a first generation college student, she said that nearly every part of enrolling in her first semester at Alamance Community College was challenging, since she had no one to help her understand the process. “It was such a relief to start out in college, not worrying about how to pay for every little thing.”
   
Cervantes hopes to complete her Associates in Arts certificate this summer, so that she will be ready to enroll at Guilford College in August. In the university transfer track, she has met the general education requirements, except for a final course in biology. Her career ambition is to become a social worker, and she feels very optimistic about the kind of preparation she’ll receive at the private Quaker college. “They’re a school that talks a lot about social justice and community. I know I want to contribute and give back.”
   
Four 2018 scholarship recipients were recognized at the May 30 senior awards ceremony at CHHS. Among this year’s winners: a student who has been studying automotive technology through dual enrollment at Durham Tech, where he will enroll full time in the fall; one who has a passion for photography and will also attend Durham Tech; a student who hopes to study sonography and another student who will also enroll in general education courses at Durham Tech.
 
Barker and Spores are deeply committed to continuing the scholarship fund to provide multiple grants each year. “Our traditional fundraising activities now support the scholarship program in addition to our other initiatives like teacher discretionary funds, teacher supplies, student club support and mental health initiatives,” said Barker.
   
Although approximately ten percent of CHCCS seniors choose to attend community college, few are commended for that choice. “We felt that lots of kids get recognized for athletic signing and four-year college scholarships, but not much is said about or done for our kids who go on to community college,” Barker said. “We want the ultimate message to be that the path to success doesn’t only tie to UNC acceptances.”

Click here to learn more about the scholarships or to make a contribution.
 

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TSA Chapters Excel in STEM

Leaders of the Technology Student Association (TSA) chapters at five of our schools recently took nearly 80 students to Greensboro for two days to participate in the 39th annual NCTSA State Conference. They engaged in STEM- (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) and leadership-based competitions, and learned much in the process. They did an amazing job of representing our district's Career and Technical Education (CTE) department.

TSA chapters take the study of STEM beyond the classroom and give students the chance to pursue academic challenges among friends with similar goals and interests. 

CTE teachers serve as chapter advisors, but the student members govern the organization through chapter, state and national level officers. Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools' TSA students hold a legacy of leadership with 12 students holding an NCTSA state officer positions since 2003, with four of those as state presidents. 

Along with incubating the leaders of tomorrow, TSA is nurturing tomorrow's scientists, engineers, journalists, trades people and educators. This is evident when one looks at the awards our TSA chapters brought home from the conference. Below you will find a section for each of the five chapters in our district. Students from four of the schools are already making plans to attend the National TSA Conference in Atlanta, June 22-26, and will no doubt continue to represent our district with their talent, integrity and STEM skills on full display. 

In fact, both McDougle Middle and East Chapel Hill High TSAs will receive the Chapter Excellence Award in NCTSA for their respective school levels. The awards will be announced and received at the upcoming National TSA Conference. The advisors for both schools are extremely proud of all of their chapter members. 
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Culbreth Middle School TSA - Mike Sharp, Advisor

The Culbreth TSA chapter was new this year, and the level of involvement was amazing. They had 30 members join the team, and 13 were able to compete at the state conference. Under the guidance and leadership of officers, Yash Gupta, Xavier Van Raay, and Sebastian Malhotra, students performed at their personal best and succeeded in bringing home a total of 5 trophies.

The following students won trophies in their events:

1st place in Coding: Sebastian Malhotra and Ben Shoenbill
2nd place in Community Service Video: Sarah Stephens and Xavier Van Raay
2nd place in Promotional Marketing: Daniel Estevez
3rd place in STEM Animation: Daniel Estevez, Miles Prenda, and Yuta Tsuboi
3rd place in Tech Bowl: Xavier Van Raay, Yash Gupta, and Srinivas Iyengar
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Phillips Middle School TSA - Ryan Barnes, Advisor

Phillips Middle School TSA placed in a number of events and represented their school, district and chapter in outstanding fashion.

1st Place Structural Engineering: Kabir Grewal, Raymond Zhao
2nd Place Microcontroller Design: Ethan Bartlett, Kabir Grewal, Hanqi Xiao, Jake Boggs, Graham Troy
2nd Place Website Design: Jake Boggs, Anna Finklestein, Meilin Weathington
3nd Place Electrical Applications: Ethan Bartlett
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McDougle Middle School TSA - Redmond Grigg and Kate Major, Advisors

These young men and women worked hard, smart ,and with so much heart this year as they prepared for competition. The trophies they earned are but symbols of their consistent and forthright efforts. They resurrected and helped beautify their school's outdoor classroom. They also ran a successful campaign to raise over $1,000 for the American Cancer Society through the Relay For Life at UNC. What an amazing feat for a group that only had three returning members. 

1st Place Community Service Video: Amelia Brinson, Lula Caress, Lucas Gutierrez-Arnold, Mateo La Serna, Vincent Paquet, Sophie Ussery Intintolo
1st Place Junior Solar Sprint: Nivas Kolli, Alexis Mead
1st Place Mechanical Engineering: Nora Daley, Nivas Kolli, Katie Randolph, Noah Wegner
1st Place American Cancer Society Fundraising: Raised $1,095 through Relay For Life
2nd Place Essays on Technology: Erin Gottschalk
2nd Place Flight: Ani Yu
2nd Place Inventions & Innovations: Lars Kahn, Gabo Ochoa Samoff, Noah Wegner
2nd Place Leadership Strategies: Amelia Brinson, Lucas Gutierrez-Arnold, Lars Kahn
2nd Place Problem Solving: Diogo Gomes, Noah Wegner
3rd Place Biotechnology: Ryan Atack, Alexis Mead, Gabo Ochoa Samoff, Guillermo Vizuette
3rd Place Career Prep: Nora Daley
3rd Place Forensic Technology: Amelia Brinson, Katie Randolph
3rd Place Technical Design: Daniel Furberg, Ani Yu
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Chapel Hill High School TSA - Redmond Grigg, Advisor

While no Chapel Hill High student placed in their competitive events at the state conference, they still did an incredible job representing their chapter, school and district. All of the state officers from our district were Chapel Hill High students, including the previously mentioned four state presidents.

Kyle Halstater first joined TSA as a 6th grader at McDougle Middle School. This was Kyle's third year holding a state office as he just finished his tenure as the 2017-2018 NCTSA State President. 

Angel Koshy will carry on the tradition of leadership as the 2018-2019 NCTSA State Reporter. She's held chapter officer positions during middle and high school, frequently serving as a mentor to younger newer members. 

Jillian Breithaupt served two years as a state officer, and as the 2016-2017 NCTSA State President, she helped to revive the NCTSA Fall Leadership Rally as a means of cultivating future state officers and leaders in TSA. 
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East Chapel Hill High School TSA - Pat Pudlo, Advisor

East Chapel Hill's TSA had semifinalists (top 12) in 13 events, and for the first time in this chapter's history, two students, Gabe Valera and Mike Pudlo, ran for state officer positions.

2nd Place Coding: Andy Farkas, Ravi Pitelka, Joseph Ahrendsen
2nd Place CAD 3D: Tarun Goyal
3rd Place Video Game Design: Andy Farkas, Ravi Pitelka
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Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools TSA wishes to thank CTE DIrector Kathi Breweur for her staunch and unwavering support for TSA in our district! Our TSA chapters grow and flourish as a direct result of Kathi's support and guidance for CTE teachers and students alike. Kathi's belief in the power and opportunities student organizations like TSA provide CTE students, makes her an exemplary leader.

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District Staff Receive SNAColade Awards

SNAColades 2017/18

Note from SNAC: The Special Needs Advisory Council (SNAC) created SNAColades to honor Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools' teachers, staff and administrators who, through their hard work and creativity, make our children's school experience more meaningful.  The following have been selected for this recognition based on the testimonials of the Exceptional Children community.  Below each name is a quote from an appreciative parent or CHCCS administrator.

Estes Hills Elementary School

• Ryan Grimm - Mr. Grimm has great insight into his students' needs and motivations.  He challenges them to reach their potential while recognizing the supports needed to get them to that point.  He is also a diligent communicator with parents and responsive to their concerns.

Frank Porter Graham Elementary 

• Emily Bivens - Although a Principal’s job entails a range of tasks, Dr. Bivens has gone above and beyond by supporting my daughter and our family through a rough transition into Kindergarten.  She’s met with her regularly to work on developing better friendships and social skills.  She’s given us a glimmer of hope for the future grades.
• June Pacheco - Ms. Pacheco recently relocated to CHCCS, and hit the ground running. She brought decades of experience to the EC department at FPG, and the results I've seen in my child are stunning. And I don't just mean grades or test scores.  Ms. Pacheco handles the children in the EC department with respect and holds them accountable for their actions by rewarding them with accolades.  The children are learning to deal with their emotions better through a recently adopted second-step program and Ms. Pacheco is implementing this program in the EC department.  The children have fewer outbursts and emotional meltdowns as a result.  It's a pleasure to have Ms. Pacheco at FPG, and I highly recommend her for a SNAColade. 

Northside Elementary

• Mary Naylor - Mary has been involved with my son since second grade, either as his EC teacher directly or facilitating with another EC teacher.  My son is now in 5th grade.  I can not say enough good things about her dedication and hard work.  She has gone above and beyond in so many ways and made a such a positive difference in our lives.  A huge thank you from our whole family.

Northside Pre-K

• Sarah Michels - Sarah has been working with my son for three years and the language that he has acquired over this time has been extraordinary.  He went in not speaking but only having about 15 words total and now he is one of the most talkative kids in the class.  Her hard work with him has really made a huge difference and I thank her for that.
• Ronetta Walker - She is amazingly patient.  She pushes my child to his fullest potential so that he can succeed.  She is in constant communication with me and lets me know if something is going on, if something needs to be changed.  She has been a lifesaver and making sure that he is fully ready for kindergarten this upcoming year.
• Pre-K Intervention Team - Thankful for this entire team.  They have helped me and explained everything in detail if needed.  Thanks to Ms. Wilson, Ms. Moore, and all others that have played a part in my son's educational experience.  He had made so much growth in being in the Pre-K class.  Thank you all.

Scroggs Elementary

• Crystal Epps - Ms. Epps is a world- class principal who strives to include children and families with special needs.  She listens to families, students and teachers and helps to resolve problems in a warm, logical and timely manner.  It is critical for students with special needs to have such a professional and caring leader.  She is intelligent, warm, empathetic, fun, and we are grateful each and every day that our children and others with special needs benefit from her leadership.  She listens and problem-solves and educates herself on matters big and small.  With regard to the special needs population, I've seen her attend SNAC meetings after-hours (non-mandatory and clearly indicative of her commitment).  I see her call the names of our children and others with special needs,  on a daily basis.  She greets them with warmth as they enter the building.  She knows them well and supports the teachers when they face challenges.  We are inspired by Ms. Epps and would like her to receive the recognition she deserves.  Lastly,  and importantly Ms. Epps doesn't shy away from difficult moments.  We as parents of SN children will sometimes be anxious or "freak out" about particular situations.  Ms. Epps picks up the phone and calls and reassures us in such situations and we are forever grateful for this.  Thank you Ms. Epps!!!
• Gina Pellegrini - I am giving Gina a SNAColade for her time, patience and understanding she has given my child this year.  His continued growth throughout this grade level wouldn't be possible without Ms. Pellegrini's guidance.  Thank YOU!
• Dottie Small - Ms. Small has been exemplary in the practice of inclusion, when it comes to teaching our son (who has autism) in a mainstream classroom.  She sees his progress and praises him for social improvements, which may go unrecognized by others.  We are deeply grateful for her structured teaching approach and importantly warmth and acceptance of our son.  Our son's fifth grade year has been wonderful both academically as well as socially and we believe Ms. Small plays a major role.  Ms. Small helps him to engage with his peers and to provide him positive reinforcement needed for improvement.  She recognizes his abilities and judges his success based on where he started (not where others are currently at!).  She additionally helps other children to understand our son and to provide him with needed social support.  In this age group,  it is important to also help a special needs child when they struggle with classmates or challenging peer situations.  Ms. Small has demonstrated a clear ability to go above and beyond to support such children.  We feel very lucky to have you as a teacher and appreciate all of the hard work. 

Seawell Elementary

• Julie Halpert - Ms. Halpert has several Twice Exceptional children in her classroom, and she teaches, supports, and encourages them with incredible skill, kindness, and patience.  She seems to care deeply for each individual child, and she ensures that they are thriving!

McDougle Middle School

• Kate Major - As a TA In the AC classroom Ms. Major stepped up to provide leadership and stability while the teacher is away on maternity leave.  She has worked hard to keep up communication with us and continued to provide continuity in our daughter's experience at school.  Losing a teacher is a stressful event for a special needs student, but Ms. Major has gone over and above to keep things as stable as possible.

Phillips Middle School 

• Danielle Riley - Ms. Riley is the "kid whisperer."  She has a magical touch with children in crisis, which stems from her great empathy and patience.  She is entirely non-judgemental with students and puts them at ease, which allows her to get to heart of an issue and start working on solutions.  I am forever grateful to her for the times she has helped my son work through a difficult time.  Yay, Ms. Riley!
• Sydney Ryals - Ms. Ryals is steadfast in her kindness and patience and is the rock that my son has relied upon all year.  In IEP meetings, she looks at challenges from a variety of perspectives and is a creative problem-solver.  Many of her ideas on how to help my son cope and engage have been helpful this year, and we are tremendously grateful to her for being so dedicated to his success.  Yay, Ms. Ryals!
• Kaleigh Vogan - Moving from elementary school to middle school is a big transition for any child, but can be even more difficult for a child with special needs.  From the moment Ms. Vogan reached out to us last summer for a school tour, I had a good feeling about 6th grade.  Having Ms. Vogan as part of my son’s team  has made such a positive impact.  When he needs her, she is there for him.  For our son, knowing that he has her support has been a huge comfort for him and for us.  Thank you. 

Smith Middle School 

• Gina Chapman - Ms. Chapman started at Smith in Jan 2018.  She is very patient, caring and kind to all the students and staff in the AC classroom.  She communicates well with parents and makes herself accessible.
• Danka Kulikowski - Thank you Ms. Kulikowski for encouraging our granddaughter this year. She has blossomed under your direction.  She can be shy, but to see her on stage with a speaking part, brought such joy to my heart.  Thank you!
• Chris Glasco - Mr. Glasco joined the Smith EC team in Sept 2017.  He cares deeply about the students' well being and participation in the classroom, as well as in their specials outside of the AC classroom.  His youthful demeanor and winning smile are a hit as he navigates the hallways and cafeteria with our students.
• Fred Feely - We don’t know what we would have done without your daily support of Violet.  You helped to keep her and us on track.  You are a dedicated professional! Thank you.
• Margaret Maternowski - Ms. Maternowski, we appreciate your understanding and flexibility in designing a program for our granddaughter.  We couldn’t have done it without your support!  Thank you.
• Irene Slydel - Thank you for all your help with our granddaughter this year.  It has been a stressful year, and your assistance really helped.

Carrboro High School

• Brittany Deeds - We are thankful for Ms. Deeds for providing us with the opportunity to complete real, valuable work within our school.  We are grateful that she relinquished control of the school supply closet to our students so they can gain skills with reading, counting and vocational work endurance while filling teacher supply orders.  Ms. Deeds is flexible, cheerful and gives us opportunities to be valued members of the community.
• Kelly Furr - We are grateful that Ms. Furr joined the CHS team!  She volunteered as a chaperone on multiple occasions to make our Community Based Instructional opportunities possible.  We are thankful for her positivity and interest in our activities.
• Lorrie Marro
• Ms. Marro, the transition facilitator at CHS, made a point to connect with my son from the beginning of his freshman year as an OCS student at Carrboro High.  She spent time getting to know him, beyond the assessments and evaluations. Ms. Marro identified him as a good candidate for Appalachian State University's Scholars with Diverse Abilities Program (SDAP).  By his junior year Ms. Marro had made sure we (his parents) understood the requirements of the application process, and the goals he needed to meet in order to be a competitive candidate.  She, along with the whole EC department, helped him work on self-advocacy, self-management, independence, and a raft of academic goals.  During this, his senior year, Ms. Marro worked closely with him and us to get all the pieces in place for his application to SDAP - many, many documents, assessments, evaluations, interviews, work samples, transcripts... We all were glad to have that submitted in November!  By January we knew that he was on the short list. And in late March we learned that he had gotten a spot in the program--one of five students to be accepted, as we understand it.  He is the first CHS student to achieve place in the SDAP. He and we are thrilled!  He has worked very hard - and of all his excellent school support, it is the support of Lorrie Marro that made the biggest difference.  Our son has attended CHCCS schools from K-12 grade.  We are happy that he is ready to move on - and we are profoundly grateful to Ms. Marro, and to the dozens of other teachers and staff that have been part of his education!
• Ms. Marro is a phenomenal Transition Facilitator and going above and beyond for every student regardless of what type of transition needs they have.  Ms. Marro is incredibly creative has unbelievable energy and does not stop until she thinks the student is on the right path for a successful exit from high school.  Thanks, Ms. Marro!
• Donna McMillan - Ms. McMillan has a never ending supply of patience for our students.  She extends herself after school and on weekends to support our students' interests and activities.  Her warm smile, gentle style, and attentiveness help our students express their interests and increase their confidence with interactions.
• Katie Moorehead - Ms. Moorehead goes above and beyond to make sure that our students are embraced by their community.  She volunteers her time, makes materials for us, supports us in activities and continually brightens our day!
• Brett Stegall - Ms. Stegall creates an inclusive class environment and structures activities and lessons so students of all abilities experience success.  Because of her structures and positive attitude, students are comfortable to try new things and find true friendships in our school.
• Quianna Phillips - We appreciate Ms. Phillips for her energy, enthusiasm and support of our skills and interests.  We are thankful that Ms. Phillips volunteered her time to serve as a chaperone this year to make our Community Based Instructional opportunities possible.
• Martha Phipps - Ms. Phipps serves as our CHS bookkeeper and is one of the ultimate "Yes, and..." supporters of our students.  Always behind the scenes, Ms. Phipps helps manage funds from our grants, orders supplies, and makes it possible for magic to happen in the classroom.
• April Ross - Ms. Ross serves as the Athletic Director at Carrboro HS.  She is unwavering in her support of our students and their rights to be on the fields, courts, track and true members of our teams. 

Chapel Hill High School

• Kate Kennedy - I am so thankful that the school has supported the role of a twice exceptional expert, and I couldn't think of anyone better for the position than Kate Kennedy.  She is fantastic at bringing the perspective of both giftedness and disabilities to the table, and she has provided much guidance for our son over the years.
• Ryan McGraw - Mr. McGraw has gone out of his way to help guide our son in choosing appropriate courses each year taking his disabilities into consideration.  He truly goes above and beyond.  Thank you!

TRAC/PATHSS/PATHSS Bridge

• Su Wanamaker - For persevering with coordinating the TRAC, PATHSS and PATHSS Bridge program.  We are looking forward to her leadership next year and hope that she will stick with it!

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Smith Team Wins C-SPAN Video Award

Thursday was a big day at Smith Middle School. Jenae Green of C-SPAN stopped by to present three very special students with a StudentCam certificate of merit.

Eighth-graders Caroline Chen, Calvin Hinkle and Olivia Xiao finished in third place nationally in C-SPAN's annual student video documentary competition, StudentCam. A ceremony was held in the auditorium where classmates, teachers and family members could recognize this wonderful achievement and view the prized video, "Protection For All: The 14th Amendment.
" The video team also won $750.

“Congratulations to all of our local prize winners in C-SPAN's national StudentCam documentary competition – it’s a terrific recognition,” said Adam Falk, Senior Vice President, State Government Affairs, Charter Communications. “This year, C-SPAN's StudentCam contest gave students the opportunity to learn more about and deeply appreciate the U.S. Constitution and its impact on our local community. We are proud to partner with them on this important initiative.”

When you get a minute, be sure to check out the award-winning video.

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CHCCS High Schools Earn High Rankings

U.S. News & World Report recently released its 2018 edition of Best High Schools. The rankings evaluate more than 20,500 public high schools nationwide to identify schools that best serve all of their students – including historically underserved populations – and assess the degree to which students are prepared for college-level coursework.

East Chapel Hill High, Chapel Hill High and Carrboro High finished as the top three traditional high schools in North Carolina. Of the 582 North Carolina high schools that were eligible, only 17 were awarded gold medals. Our three schools each earned a gold medal.

"Top-ranked schools succeed in three main areas: exceeding expectations on state proficiency tests, offering challenging coursework and graduating their students," said Anita Narayan, managing editor of Education at U.S. News.

The Best High Schools rankings feature data on a number of factors, including enrollment, graduation rates, diversity, participation in free and reduced-price lunch programs and the results of state assessments, as well as Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate test data.

“I'm proud of our students and our team of educators,” said Superintendent Pam Baldwin. “They are committed to ensuring every child has an excellent school experience. It is a privilege to work with them as we pursue this goal together. "

U.S. News worked with RTI International, a global research firm, to implement the comprehensive rankings methodology.

To see the full list of North Carolina High Schools, click here.

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Budget and Finance Office Awarded Highest Form of Recognition

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). The award was presented to the school district's Finance Office for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government agency and its management.

An Award of Financial Reporting Achievement has been awarded to Ruby Pittman, Senior Executive Director of Budget and Finance, as her department is primarily responsible for preparing the award-winning CAFR.

"We are very fortunate to have Ms. Ruby Pittman heading up our Budget and Finance Office," said Superintendent Pam Baldwin. "Her team does a great job overseeing all financial operations. They are well-experienced and extremely helpful."

The CAFR was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.


Government Finance Officers Association is a major professional association servicing the needs of nearly 19,000 appointed and elected local, state, and provincial-level government officials and other finance practitioners. It provides top quality publications, training programs, services, and products designed to enhance the skills and performance of those responsible for government finance policy and management. The association is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with offices in Washington, D.C. 

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Two Carrboro High DECA Students Compete at Internationals

In April, for the first time ever, two district students competed at the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC). Kirby Thornton and Leanne Joyce of Carrboro High School traveled to Atlanta for the three-day 2018 competition. DECA advisor and Marketing Education teacher, Julie Francis, traveled with them. When they returned, Francis reported with pride the accomplishments of her students; Joyce placed in the Top 10 of the Business Growth Plan competition in Entrepreneurship, while Thornton received honors in Food Marketing. Joyce established her 501c3 non-profit, Positive Impact for Kids, when she was in middle school, after being diagnosed with a heart condition.
   
DECA is an international Business and Marketing organization, whose mission is to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management around the world. The annual ICDC is open to two separate divisions: High School, with 200,00 members in 3,500 schools, and a smaller Collegiate division with more than 15,000 students in 275 colleges and universities. This year’s conference hosted 19,000 DECA members, so Thornton and Joyce found themselves in the midst of more business-oriented youth than they could have imagined.
   
“DECA is one of the coolest things I’ve been a part of because of the networking ability you have at a conference,” said Thornton. “It’s commonplace at ICDC to walk up to anyone and ask them where they’re from, what event they’re doing, or any other random question you may have. Our hotel had open areas, and kids from all different states would congregate and play cards together. It was really awesome to have that kind of community.” Thornton said it was especially a privilege to be the only two students representing CHCCS.
   
The whirlwind experience in Atlanta was the culmination of months of preparation and competitions at the local and state levels. Joyce placed second in the North Carolina competition for Business Growth Plan with her 30-page growth plan. Before traveling to internationals, she revised it once more and also prepared for an onstage interview by judges of the event. Thornton needed to prepare for both a test and role play scenarios for her Food Marketing competition.
   
For students who commit to DECA throughout their high school years, the pay off and increased confidence can be substantial. “My involvement in DECA has taught me so much about myself and about other people,” said Thornton. “I’m always so proud when I get to see members of my chapter improving at every competition. I’m especially proud of the younger kids. It always seems to be the young, quiet freshman that shows the most improvement. Most importantly, I’ve learned that everyone has leadership capabilities. Anyone that takes the initiative to join has the qualities they need to be successful in DECA.”
   
“Carrboro High DECA is an amazing opportunity for students who are interested in Business and Marketing,” said Francis. “This organization prepares students to get first hand knowledge about Business and Marketing as they enter the next phase of their education and career.”

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Chapel Hill High and the National Spanish Exams

CHAPEL HILL HIGH SPANISH STUDENTS SCORE WELL

Congratulations to the many, many Spanish students from Chapel Hill High who attained national recognition for excellent performance on the 2018 National Spanish Examinations.

In all, 378 students took the exams, which assesses reading, listening, vocabulary and grammar comprehension. Students from Chapel Hill High earned a total of 20 gold, 40 silver and 33 bronze medals along with 110 honorable mentions.

Exams across the nation are given and then compared. Students who scored in the 95th percentile and above are gold, 85-94% are silver, 75-84% are bronze and 50-74% are honorable mention.

“Attaining a medal or honorable mention for any student on the National Spanish Examinations is very prestigious,” said Kevin Cessna-Buscemi, National Director of the Exams, “because the exams are the largest of their kind in the United States with over 150,000 students participating in 2018.” 

Students from Chapel Hill High have a long history of high achievement on these exams, and were taught by Spanish teachers David Boyle, Susan Stites, Braden Walsh, Maite Lamberri, and Thomas Soth. 

The National Spanish Examinations are administered each year in grades 6 through 12, and are sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese.

More information about the exams can be found at:

https://www.nationalspanishexam.org/index.php/about-us/what-is-nse

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Scroggs Art Teacher Receives Fulbright Award

A huge congratulations goes out to Sarah Cornette, the art teacher at Scroggs Elementary, who has received a Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching grant to Greece from the U.S. Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. Sarah is one of approximately 35 U.S. citizens who will travel abroad through the Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program in 2018-2019. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic and professional achievement and demonstrated leadership potential.

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government, and is designed to build lasting connections between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The Fulbright Program is funded through an annual appropriation by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations, and foundations in foreign countries and the United States also provide direct and indirect support to the program, which operates in over 160 countries worldwide.

Since its inception in 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 380,000 students, scholars, teachers, artists, professionals and scientists the opportunity to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. Fulbrighters address critical global challenges in all areas, while building relationships, knowledge, and leadership in support of the long-term interests of the United States. Fulbright alumni have achieved distinction in many fields, including 59 who have been awarded the Nobel Prize, 84 who have received Pulitzer Prizes, and 37 who have served as a head of state or government.

The Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program sends U.S. teachers abroad and brings international teachers to the United States for a semester of independent study and professional development focused on sharing international best practices and developing students’ global competence. Based at university-level schools of education or other educational institutions in the host country, participants complete an inquiry project, take courses, share their expertise with local teachers and students, and engage in action planning to implement what they learn on the program when they return home.

We are so proud to have one of our very own Scroggs Frogs representing our school district - and our nation - in this amazing program. Way to go, Sarah!

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CHCCS Teachers Benefit from $29 Million DonorsChoose Gift

Unless you keep up with Stephen Colbert’s fundraising preferences, you would be forgiven for asking what the comedian has to do with the new Sphero robots at Ephesus Elementary, or the soon-to-be-delivered collaborative desks at Seawell Elementary. But Colbert has long been a friend and fan of DonorsChoose, the national non-profit that funds teacher requests. This spring, Colbert used his late night show to announce a $29 million gift from the cryptocurrency company Ripple, a gift that funded every single active request on DonorsChoose nationwide. Five Chapel Hill-Carrboro teachers had the good fortune to be among the 28,210 teachers whose projects were filled by the Ripple gift.
   
Claire Nelson, third-grade teacher at Ephesus, said, “Needless to say, I’m still quite shocked at Ripple’s generosity!”  She had requested six Sphero Mini robots and one Sphero SPRK robot, after learning about the resource at the North Carolina Technology in Education Society (NCTIES) conference that she attended in March. “My son is on a high school robotics team. I have seen what a difference robotics and coding has made to him. Even though robotics and coding are out of my comfort zone, I wanted to challenge myself to integrate it into my classroom instruction. I sought out a few sessions on Robotics and Programming at NCTIES. I decided Sphero would be a perfect place to start!”
   
Tori Mazur, Digital Learning Specialist at Ephesus, said she has been using DonorsChoose since 2008, and she now writes most of her project requests with the school’s Hour of Code in mind. “We borrowed a 12-pack [of Spheros] from Morris Grove for Hour of Code in December and we discovered so much potential, that we had to have our own!”
   
The title of Mazur’s funded project was “May the Force & Motion Be With Us!” She wrote in her proposal, “My students need a 12-pack of Spheros to work in programming teams. We can use the force (and motion) standards to engage in STEM every day, not just during Hour of Code.”
   
Nationally, the Ripple gift funded more than 35,000 classroom requests, which according to DonorsChoose, will cover 70,000 books, 15,000 art supplies and 6,200 pieces of lab equipment. The day after Colbert announced the Ripple gift on his show, teachers created more than 15,600 projects on DonorsChoose, which beat the site's record for the number of projects created in an entire week.
   
Nan Lujan, English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher at Seawell Elementary, benefited from Ripple’s gift with the funding of two separate requests: i-Pads for first grade math centers, called “Math that is Just Right for Me,” and “Black History Matters” for twenty T-shirts for children and adults to wear at school events. For the i-Pads, Lujan wrote, “One of our centers is technology, in which students can utilize a program which uses a screener to determine what specific skills a student is proficient in and which skills they need to work on in order to become proficient. It then tailors their time in the application to allow them to practice the skills they need the most work in so that they may advance.” In regards to the T-shirts donation, Lujan explained, “We want our kids of color and all of our kids to know that at our school, Black History Matters.We would love to be able to outfit our teachers and students in our affinity group with Black History Matters t-shirts to make a strong statement at our assembly and throughout the school year. It's important that we tell the stories of strong black men and strong black women and inspire a new generation.”
   
Tomika Altman-Lewis, the fifth-grade Learning Environment for Advanced Placement (LEAP) teacher at Seawell, has a long and fruitful history with DonorsChoose, and she now serves as an ambassador for the non-profit, as well as an essay reader for project proposals. “As an ambassador, I help spread the word about DonorsChoose and assist teachers with creating their projects.” Over the years, DonorsChoose has funded 61 of Altman-Lewis’ requests, most of which have supported her wide-ranging and creative approaches to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) instruction.
     
Her most recent grant was for twelve standing desks, plus materials for hands-on learning activities. For “The Ultimate Learning Space,” Altman-Lewis wrote, “Learning does not stand still and neither should my students. Students need the opportunity to move, materials for them to work collaboratively or independently, and space for them to feel comfortable. Students will learn about architectural design and blueprints as they create the ultimate learning environment because my students will design the layout of our class.”

“Game On” was what Altman-Lewis named her other request. “Integrating literacy with hands-on experiences will allow my students to truly understand the concepts taught in school and this project will allow them to share such learning with their families. I am requesting a variety of STEM-related games such as the Food Chain, Mammal Survival, Human Body, and Forces and Motion activity kits and family games such as 'Smath, 5 Second Rule, Man Bites Dog, and etc. These games will also serve as models when they create their own games.”
   
The fifth teacher to receive a DonorsChoose gift from the Ripple donation was Jessica Plant, seventh-grade math teacher at Culbreth. Titled “Help! I Can’t Sit Still,” Plant’s request was for additional seating choices. “Students will have the option to sit on the classroom rug, sit on yoga balls, or on the bean bags to complete classwork assignments and work collaboratively with their peers. These materials will make a difference in the lives of my students and help students that have a lot of trouble staying focused for the entire class period.”
   
Two years ago Stephen Colbert, as a member of the board of directors of DonorsChoose, pledged to pay for every project request in South Carolina, his home state. Little did he know that he was establishing a national model for blanket funding.
   
DonorsChoose CEO Charles Best told EdSurge, "We believe in the wisdom of the front lines. Hardworking, passionate teachers know their students' needs better than anyone else in the school environment. If we can tap into their needs, we can unleash smarter solutions and empower those people on the front lines."

View Colbert’s announcement here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfw4FWJJVOQ



     

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CHCCS Honors Staff at Annual Recognition Reception

Johnson Named 2018-19 Teacher of the Year
Jasmine Johnson of Scroggs Elementary, was named the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Teacher of the Year at the annual Recognition Reception on May 8 at Carrboro High.

Johnson is a fifth grade teacher with five years of teaching experience.  She holds a bachelor of science degree in Elementary Education from the Appalachian State University.  Johnson received a $1,000 check from Pinnacle Financial Partners, as well as gifts from area businesses.

Two Honor Teachers were also named on Tuesday.  They are Tijuana Goodwin of McDougle Middle and Christen Campbell of Chapel Hill High School.  They each received a $500 check from the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Public School Foundation (PSF) and gifts from local businesses.

Jasmine Johnson, 2018-19 CHCCS Teacher of the Year

Tijuana Goodwin, District Honor Teacher

Christen Campbell, District Honor Teacher

Other Teachers of the Year were recognized with $100 checks from PSF and gifts from local businesses.  They are: Susan Murray, Carrboro Elementary; Hannah Murphy, Ephesus Elementary; Corissa Gamble, Estes Hills Elementary; Daniella Buenaventura, FPG Bilingüe Elementary; Suzanee McNulty, Glenwood Elementary; Alison Davis, McDougle Elementary; Kathleen Carswell, Morris Grove Elementary; Alder Keene, Northside Elementary; Gretchen Pegram, Rashkis Elementary; Chelsea Robinette, Seawell Elementary; Molly Caudill, Culbreth Middle; Kaleigh Vogan, Phillips Middle; Beth Kinney, Smith Middle; Stefan Klakovich, Carrboro High; Evon Barnes, East Chapel Hill High; and Clyde McPherson, Phoenix Academy High.

Teacher of the Year gifts were provided by:  A Better Image Printing, Chapel Hill Restaurant Group, Office Depot and University Florist.

The Mary Scroggs Award for Excellence in Providing Support Services recognizes one classified staff member from each school and several Lincoln Center departments.  The award recipient is Laila Bradford, the IT business systems specialist with the Information Technology Department at Lincoln Center, who also received a $1,000 check.  Two Honor Recipients were named.  They are Crystal Brooks, the receptionist at Northside Elementary, and Shaunna Jeffries, a teacher assistant at FPG Billingüe.  They each received $500.

Other Classified Staff of the Year, who each received $100, are:  Raymond Miles, EC teacher assistant, Carrboro Elementary; Jo Ann Hodges, receptionist, Ephesus Elementary; Jody Benedict, EC teacher assistant, Estes Hills Elementary; Karl Pace, teacher assistant, Estes Hills Elementary; Sally Massengale, science specialist, Glenwood Elementary; April Siler, teacher assistant, McDougle Elementary; Mary Mateer, receptionist, Morris Grove Elementary; Mary Battista, receptionist, Rashkis Elementary; Jennifer Elton, teacher assistant, Scroggs Elementary; Sarah Silverstein, data manager, Seawell Elementary; Theresa Collins, data manager, Culbreth Middle; Kathleen Mitchell, receptionist, McDougle Middle; Jeri Wilson, data manager, Phillips Middle; Thomas Scroggs, data manager, Smith Middle; Quiana Phillips, school secretary, Carrboro High; Teresa Dawson, secretary, Chapel Hill High; Sara Adcock, technology assistant, East Chapel Hill High; Thomas Britton, secretary, Instructional Services Division, Lincoln Center; Antonio Salas, grounds foreman, Facilities/Maintenance, Lincoln Center; and Chuck Lockhart, lead bus driver, Transportation.

Stefanie Mazva-Cohen, school social worker at Culbreth Middle, received the Exceptional Children Student Services Staff of the Year Award, as well as a check for $500.  The two Honor Recipients are Emily Burrows, Autism support specialist at McDougle Elementary, and Cynthia Zwiacher, school nurse at Scroggs Elementary.  They each received $250.

The other ECSS Staff of the Year, who each received $50, are: Katie Harrison, school social worker, Carrboro Elementary; Marne Meredith, school social worker, Ephesus Elementary; Ashley Hudson, speech language pathologist, Estes Hills Elementary; Rebecca Fox, speech language pathologist, FPG Bilingüe; Wendy Johnston, school social worker, Glenwood Elementary; Stacey Rader, EC program facilitator, Morris Grove Elementary; Candice Norwood, school social worker, Northside Elementary; Dionne Silvester, school psychologist, Rashkis Elementary; Lisle Pearman, EC program facilitator, Seawell Elementary; Kathy Kauffmann, school counselor, McDougle Middle; Allison Crosetto, school social worker, Phillips Middle; Wendy Lee, speech language pathologist, Smith Middle; Linda Karcher, SAP/504 coordinator, Carrboro High; Stefanie Kotzen, school social worker, Chapel Hill High; Jessica Harris, school counselor, East Chapel Hill High; and Melissa Breaden, school social worker, Pre-K/Head Start.

Classified and EC staff of the Year gifts were provided by FSI Office and University Florist.

Other staff awards were also presented at the event.

John Williams of Phoenix Academy High was recognized as the district's Principal of the Year, while Tiffany Cheshire of Phillips Middle was named the district's Assistant Principal of the Year.  Bill Mullin, facilities management executive director, received the Award for Excellence in District Administration.

Janine Barr of Glenwood Elementary received the CHC Promising New Teacher Award.  Kirsten Gardner Venema of Ephesus Elementary was the recipient of the Jeannette Blackwell Mentor Teacher Award.   Shawna Catlett of Ephesus Elementary was named the recipient of the Elmo's Award for Excellence in Teaching English Language Learners and World Language.  Kate Kennedy of Lincoln Center and Mintzy Paige of Carrboro High received the MSAN (Minority Student Achievement Network) Equity Equals Excellence Award.  Kathryn Edelstein of East Chapel Hill High was awarded The Reckford Teaching Prize (a new award this year).

The Blue Ribbon Mentor-Advocate (BRMA) program presented two Excellence in Equitable Teaching Awards.  These award recipients are selected by the students in BRMA.  The middle school award went to Jessica Grinnell of Culbreth Middle, and Michael Irwin of Chapel Hill High received the high school award.

Representatives of PSF were on hand to present both new and renewing Teaching Chairs. Michael Sharp of Culbreth Middle is the Neil Pedersen Teachers First Chair for Excellence in Classroom Technology.  Mackenzie Casey of Smith Middle is the Mel and Zora Rashkis Chair for Excellence in Teaching Health and PE (a new award this year).  Amy Brazasky of Morris Grove is the Sockwell Chair for Excellence in Teaching in the Primary Grades (Pre-K-2).  Anthony Swarigen of Carrobor High is the Bernadine Sullivan Chair for Excellence in Teaching High School English or Social Studies.  Molly Caudill of Culbreth Middle is the GlaxoSmithKline Chair for Excellence in Teaching Middle School Science or Math.

Renewing chair recipients were also honored on Tuesday.  Denise Keene of Smith Middle is the Kim Hoke Chair for Excellence in Teaching Exceptional Children.  Ann Daaleman of Phillips Middle is the PTSA Chair for Excellence in Teaching Cultural Arts.  Morgan May of Culbreth Middle is the Burton Stuart Chair for Promising New Teachers of Secondary Math or Science.  Candace Crothers of Glenwood Elementary is the Upper Elementary Chair for Excellence in Teaching Innovation.

Ten teachers were recognized for earning their National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.  They join the more than 300 other CHCCS teachers who have earned their National Boards.  They are:  Melissa Barry, Carrboro High; Edward Baruch, Phillips Middle; Sophia Bauers, East Chapel Hill High; Stephanie Bruce, Morris Grove Elementary; Molly Caudill, Culbreth Middle; Sarah Cornette, Scroggs Elementary; William Giblin, Culbreth Middle; Ashley Sherman, Ephesus Elementary; William Vincent, East Chapel Hill High; and Jessica Wallace, Chapel Hill High.

Nineteen employees (of the more than 45) were recognized for retiring from the district this year.  They include:  Sarita Allen-Medlin, Lincoln Center; Betty Berryhill, Carrboro Elementary; Susan Brandt, Lincoln Center; Marianne Henderson, Smith Middle; Kathleen Kauffmann, McDougle Middle; Alice Lassiter, Carrboro Elementary; Geneva Long, Chapel Hill High; Lavern Manzano, Lincoln Center; Sally Massengale, Glenwood Elementary; Jamilah Moye, Carrboro Elementary; Sandra Murphy, Chapel Hill High; Fay Nourani, Northside Elementary; Teresa Peters, Morris Gove Elementary; Debbie Phelps, McDougle Elementary; Susan Poole, UNC Hospital School; Beverly Roberson, Transportation; Betty Wooten, Carrboro High; John Wykoff, Lincoln Center; and Cynthia Zwiacher, Scroggs Elementary.

Employees were also honored for attaining milestones of service with CHCCS.  Sarita Allen-Medlin, a PAC teacher in Human Resources at Lincoln Center, was honored for her 35 years of service.

Seven employees were honored for having 30 years of service to CHCCS.  They are:  Karla Boreiko, Estes Hills Elementary; Phylis Cook-Mack, Seawell Elementary; Ann Cramer, Seawell Elementary; Natalie Faircloth, McDougle Elementary; Melodie Majette, Rashkis Elementary; Douglas Noell, Lincoln Center; and Carlos Perera, Seawell Elementary.

Employees with 25 years of service included:  Linda Fyle, Scroggs Elementary; Carla Gilchrist, Glenwood Elementary; Carmen Hackney, Rashkis Elementary; Sharon Henley, Morris Grove Elementary; Mary Hill, Seawell Elementary; Wanda King, Morris Grove Elementatry; Sarah Massengale, Glenwood Elementary; Tricia Thompson, Scroggs Elementary; Anglea Short, Phillips Middle; and Suzanne Stokes, Morris Grove Elementary.

Employees with 20 years of service included:  Roberto Aponte, Lincoln Center; Marla Brown, McDougle Elementary; Jinnie Burnette, Chapel Hill High; Holly Clark, Morris Grove Elementary; Jason Curtis, Chapel Hill High; Lisa Decesaris, McDougle Middle; Tracey Farrar, East Chapel Hill High; Anthony George, Lincoln Center; Yikaalo Habte, Phillips Middle; Jerri Humphries, Chapel Hill High; Michael Irwin, Chapel Hill High; Kathleen Kauffmann, McDougle Middle; Barbara Link, Culbreth Middle; Issac Marsh, Chapel Hill High; Magaret Maternowski, McDougle Middle; Janelle Price, Chapel Hill High; Karen Sanders, East Chapel Hill High; Roy Smith, Phillips Middle; John Walker, Transportation Department; and Linda Williford, Seawell Elementary.

The annual Recognition Reception is hosted in collaboration with the Public School Foundation (PSF).

“Taking this evening to honor educators throughout the district is something I look forward to all year.  We don’t just honor teachers - we honor staff members and their accomplishments from all areas of Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools.  Everyone spotlighted with awards tonight are held up by their peers as being the best at what they do.  All those who spent 20 or more years serving our community are the epitome of dedicated.  And all of our retirees have worked hard, educating generations and have earned our thanks as they start a new journey, ” said Superintendent Pam Baldwin.  “Who wouldn’t want to celebrate these successes?”

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AVID Reaches Higher at UNC Celebration

A new tradition for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students was born on April 24, in a tradition-steeped room of the Morehead Foundation on the UNC campus. The graduating seniors joined other AVID students, their teachers, Director of Equity Leadership and AVID, Dr. Sheldon Lanier and Superintendent Dr. Pam Baldwin as they formally declared their college intentions by signing their names to a document. The wood paneled walls and glittering chandeliers set the stage for a memorable occasion, but the formal event was followed by a Chick-Fil-A lunch in the adjoining sun room, with plenty of relaxed smiles all around.
   
“College signing day was an awesome event. As a senior, I really enjoyed the recognition of my accomplishments,” said Jimias Best, East Chapel Hill High senior.
   
The idea for the campus Commitment Day celebration was developed by a freshman Morehead-Cain Scholar, Mina Yakubu, who partnered with Missy Julian Fox, Director of First Look at UNC, to create a graduation ceremony that aligned with the national Reach Higher Initiative. In 2014, Michelle Obama held her first College Signing Day rally in Texas with 2,000 graduating high school students, as she announced the creation of Reach Higher. In four years, it has become a nationwide movement with participating schools in all fifty states.
     
Yakubu and Fox share similar visions and goals for expanding college access to underrepresented populations in this community. “Mina asked me to be the advisor and I happily agreed,” said Fox. “With my work and passion for getting kids to pursue a college degree, AVID is the perfect match. It is essential for institutions of higher education to play their role and create a pipeline to our public schools.”
       
Yakubu is one of 17 students serving on the advisory board of Obama’s Better Make Room/Reach Higher. Last year those students were invited to the White House to receive the First Lady’s message first hand: Go back to your schools and figure out how to get more of your peers thinking about college.
     
Yakubu said, “I planned this event because I want to further the mission of the organization to create a college-going, college-persisting culture in the community. In our first-year, I wanted to continue planning Commitment Day/College Signing Day events in Chapel Hill. I contacted Missy after learning about First Look. We met with Dr. Lanier to coordinate for the event. I am delighted with the outcome of months of planning, emailing for donations and finalizing details.”
     
“I had a wonderful time and I think it should continue to happen every year,” said Ingri Cruz Martinez from East. “One thing that I did love the most was the motivational videos they showed and that we were able to ask the college students questions about college.”
   
The AVID students heard from a panel of Yakubu and three other UNC freshmen and sophomores, all students of color, who spoke to the challenges of making their voices heard in predominantly-white institutions. Chris Suggs, co-chair of the Black Student Movement’s first year council, said that his college choice came down to UNC and Howard University. “I found it’s important to stay true to yourself and get involved on campus. Right away.” He said it’s helpful to find a team, an organization on campus, as soon as students make their college choices. “Follow their social media, get to know the members.” He said that UNC students reached out to him before he even arrived in Chapel Hill, asking how they could help him settle in.
   
Marcella Pansini, another Morehead-Cain freshman, described how much she worried about campus social life, having come from a school where “I grew up with the same 100 people.” She said she wasn’t prepared for how big the UNC campus is, but she soon joined the Multicultural Affairs and Diversity Outreach Board, and signed on to be a First Look tour guide, providing campus experiences for middle school students.
   
All of the panelists urged the AVID students to pay attention to self-care during that crucial first year in college - and to seek out mentors early, both on faculty and older students. “Use your professor’s office hours,” was a message repeated by several.
   
Superintendent Baldwin congratulated the graduates, and Dr. Lanier spoke briefly to the seniors, saying, “AVID Scholars, congratulations to all of you. I’ve seen you grow since I came to the district when you were in 9th grade.”
     
“The AVID college signing day was a great experience for me,” said Tara Thompson of East. “Being a Junior and watching that really inspired me because I know next next year I'm going to be in that same seat, signing to the college that I'll be at in the prime years of my life. I really enjoyed being able to see other seniors in AVID programs in surrounding schools as well, and see just how important and helpful AVID can be for other students.”
   
The underclassmen spoke later about the value of attending the event. “I learned a lot from the panel,” said one student. “They explained how we shouldn’t procrastinate - that college is not a joke - you just keep your head up.”
   
Dr. Lanier noted later, “I am extremely proud of their accomplishments and the young adults they have grown to become. They are a true testament to the power of AVID.”

Click here to view Michelle Obama’s message for 2018 College Signing Day.

https://www.bettermakeroom.org/our-story/

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Carrboro High's April Ross Named NC Athletic Director of the Year

Congratulations to Carrboro High's April Ross. She was recently named the 2018 Dave Harris Athletic Director of the Year by the North Carolina High School Athletic Association.

April has been the Athletic Director at Carrboro since 2008. The Jaguars have enjoyed immense success under her leadership with hundreds of scholar athletes, 23 state championships and six Wells Fargo State Cups. Prior to joining Carrboro High, April worked as Athletic Director at Briggs High School in Columbus. She is a member of both the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association and the North Carolina Athletic Directors' Association. She holds current Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) and Certified Interscholastic Coach (CIC) certifications. When she coached at Tarboro High School for 15 years, her 1990 basketball team reached the 3A state finals. April was a four-year letter winner in basketball at Bath High School and East Carolina University.

"We are so happy for April. This is a very well-deserved honor," said Carrboro High Principal Beverly Rudolph. "While she is often working behind the scenes, her efforts make a significant difference for our student-athletes and the entire student body."

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Smith Middle Comes Up Big at Science Olympiad

Smith Middle School's Science Olympiad Team had a very successful showing at the recent state competition held at North Carolina State University, taking home a 5th place trophy. The competition included 53 teams made up of hundreds of students from across the state. The Smith Team brought home 17 individual metals, including four 1st place finishes.

The team is coached by Regina Baratta and Lori Clark.

"This team has been a real pleasure to coach because they are motivated, cooperative, and creative," said Baratta. 

Team members include:
                                   
Harper Baer                                               

Smith Middle School Science Olympiad Team

Sophia Benjamin                                           
Eve Bryner                                                     
Laura Cai                                                     
Caroline Chen                                           
Eli Elk                                                       
Calvin Hinkle                                                   
Kevin Ji 
Justin Joo                                                   
Achyuta Kannan                                               
Max Kuhlman                                                 
Benjamin Li                                           
Avery Loeb                                               
Erin Mansfield 
Clara Merry                                                     
Noah Siekierski                                                 
Kiana Taylor                                               
Kelly Wang 

Phillips Middle School finished in 10th place. East Chapel Hill came in 9th place in the high school division.

East Chapel Hill High Science Olympiad Team

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Ingri Cruz-Martinez...Continuing the AVID legacy at East

Congratulations to East Chapel Hill High's Ingri Cruz-Martinez, recipient of the 2018 Felicia Brewer Scholarship. The cash award for the scholarship is $80,000. Ingri is continuing the AVID legacy of academic excellence at East.

The purpose of the Felicia Brewer Scholarship is to create a life-transforming opportunity for immigrant or first generation students who have overcome significant adversity, giving them the opportunity to pursue their dreams and improve their lives through education or training.

"The Felicia Brewer scholarship has changed my life. This scholarship will allow me to be the first in my family to go to a university," said Ingri. "It will allow me to change the pathway to the younger generation of my family."

Ingri has decided to attend Fayetteville State University, where she will pursue nursing.

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McDougle Middle Orchestra and Choir Take Top Honors

The McDougle Middle School Orchestra and Choir recently participated in the Busch Gardens Music in the Parks Competition in Williamsburg, Virginia.

The McDougle Orchestra finished in first place with a ranking of Superior.

The McDougle Choir finished in first place with a ranking of Superior. They were also crowned as the Overall Grand Champion Choir.

Congratulations to all of our Mustangs on a job well done!

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Tiffany Cheshire - Assistant Principal of the Year

Tiffany Cheshire
Phillips Middle School

Congratulations to Tiffany Cheshire of Phillips Middle School, the 2018-19 Assistant Principal of the Year! 

Cheshire has been the assistant principal at Phillips since August 2017. She has made a quick and powerful impact. 

"I am honored to work alongside Tiffany Cheshire every day," said Phillips Middle School Principal Drew Ware. "She embodies educational leadership with her creativity, professionalism and the way she interacts with students. She helps make Phillips a great school."

      

Before joining the team at Phillips, Cheshire served as assistant principal at McDougle Elementary School for four years. She arrived in the district in April 2013 from Alamance-Burlington Schools, and spent the 2010-11 year as principal intern at Seawell Elementary. She began her career as a Spanish teacher in Orange County Schools. 

      

After receiving her B.S. in Spanish Education at Appalachian State, Cheshire earned her Masters in School Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill.

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Smith Mathcounts Team - State Champions!

On Friday, March 23, the Smith Middle School MathCounts Team traveled to the NC School of Science and Math in Durham for the MathCounts State Finals.  The Cyclones team came in as one of the favorites - having finished in the top three for seven straight years now, but knowing it was going to be very competitive this year.

Smith won thanks to a very strong Team Round in which they were the only school to get eight of the 10 problems correct.

Student team members include Leo DeJong, Ben Li, Bo Chi, and Michael Dai, and the team is coached by Smith math teachers, Boyd Blackburn and Rachel Haber.

In addition, Ben Li was the individual winner of the Countdown Round which is a fast-paced event in which you try to be the first to buzz in with the correct answer.

In addition, Leo DeJong finished 3rd individually which means he will be one of the four students representing North Carolina at the National MathCounts competition (live-streamed on ESPN) in Washington, DC in May.  Dr. Blackburn will coach the North Carolina team.

Smith's arch-rival, Carnage Middle School in Raleigh, finished second. Phillips Middle School also had a good day, finishing seventh in the state. The Phillips team is coached by Angela Short.

Congratulations to all of our Smith and Phillips MathCounts competitors.

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CHCCS Women Divers Shine in State Championships

The popularity of Women’s High School Diving has quietly been rising in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, and in many regions across the country. Senior Alyssa Wang, state 3A diving champion for 2018, said that she was one of only two divers at East Chapel Hill High when she began competing as a freshman. Now she is mentoring and cheering on a group of younger divers who are already making a splash in North Carolina and at national events. In early February, Carrboro High sophomore Claire McDaniels placed as runner-up in the NCHSAA championship (1A/2A). Wang placed first in 3A, with Chapel Hill High sophomore Clara Tate placing as runner-up. All three competing CHCCS high schools brought home first or second place finishes among women divers.

In conversations with five of the top district divers, certain personal stories and histories overlapped, and each young woman spoke of her excitement to be among the state’s most successful divers. They all spoke about the intense combination of fun and challenges that makes the long hours of practice more than worthwhile.

Wang will be diving next year for Indiana University, one of the top college programs in the country, which traditionally draws current and future Olympians. She can’t wait to be mentored and inspired by so many star divers as she transitions to the next level. “I did a whole list of sports when I was younger,” she said. “Skating, gymnastics, ballet and soccer. But then I quit them all to commit to diving. It’s just really fun.”

Carrboro High School’s Claire McDaniels comes from a swimming and diving family; her older sister Emily McDaniels excelled as a swimmer at CHS before continuing a successful career at Vassar College, and her mother Meg McDaniels was a diver for the University of Alabama. Although Claire began as a swimmer, she became enamored of diving as she watched her older brother practice. As she said in a 2017 News & Observer profile, “I like the thrill of throwing myself off a board more than the blocks.” Now she dives weekdays before school starts, again in the afternoon for three to six hours and almost non-stop on weekends - and then there’s time in the weight room. Last year as a freshman she took first place in the state 1A/2A championships, and then went on to compete in USA Nationals, along with Wang. McDaniels grins when she says, “That’s most of the reason I’m going to college. To dive.”       

Many casual observers of the sport only watch divers compete during summer Olympics, after which there is always an uptick in children and young teens signing up to train. The Triangle is blessed with two strong programs, Duke Diving Club, where many of these high school women train, and North Carolina Diving at UNC, which also draws serious youth divers. All of the top divers in the district train year-round and compete on the USA Diving circuit, in addition to the regional and state meets with NCHSAA. Last year at the 2017 USA National Championships, Wang placed third in the 3-meter prelims as well as finishing strong in the finals; McDaniels also made it to the Nationals and finished 16th on platform overall.

Many young divers start out as gymnasts, and others first compete as swimmers. East Chapel Hill High sophomore Zooey Mehen trained as a gymnast for seven years before breaking her elbow and deciding to try out diving. She has been competing for less than two years, yet she placed fourth in the the 3A state meet last month. Mehen said she loves trying out new dives and she admits one of the reasons she enjoys diving so much is that “it just looks really cool.”

Indeed it does. All of the top divers maintain YouTube presences with brief clips of their performances in competitions. To the untrained eye, the dives of these CHCCS women look perfect - crisp, flawless lines with little splash as they hit the water. Every one of the 11 dives they execute in competition is the result of thousands of practice dives, and at each new step of development, there is often accompanying fear.

Clara Tate, a sophomore at Chapel Hill High, finished second behind Wang in last month’s 3A championships. She said that she always had a fear of heights, and the fear sometimes returns as she’s practicing her platform dives. As with most competitive divers, she’s suffered her share of injuries: a concussion, torn ligaments and a stress fracture in her back. When divers enter the water from the 10-meter platform, they are often moving at 40 mph, yet Tate notes that diving takes less physical toll on the body than competing in gymnastics at the same level. And as her fellow divers echoed over and over, “It’s just so much fun,” Tate said. “To be up there, flipping through the air.”

McDaniels said that her lifelong fearlessness is one of the most important ingredients to her success. “It’s more mental than physical - before you leave the board, it’s telling yourself it’s time to go.” Now, she said, her appetite for practice and competition is limitless. “I’m thinking, Let me try this, and this, and this.”

Cloris Huan of Chapel Hill High, yet another sophomore diver, competed last month and came away with a ninth place finish, even though she was battling an injury that took her out of practice for a number of weeks. "Diving is both a mentally and physically challenging sport that requires extreme bravery, persistence and precision,” she said. “Diving has taught me so many life lessons, like being a hard worker and being resilient, even when time are difficult.”

Meg McDaniels, Claire’s mother, stepped in to fill a coaching vacancy after winter break, and she worked with all of the CHCCS girls who competed in the regional and state championships. As an assistant coach with Duke Diving, McDaniels understands what it takes to succeed at the high school level. “They train so hard and rarely get the recognition they deserve.  I guess they don't mind because they love what they're doing, and it's been such a great foundation for them for the rest of their lives.” She added proudly, “They are very self-motivated young women!”

3A State Meet: Alyssa Wang (left), Clara Tate (2nd on left), Zoey Mehen, (4th on left)

1A State Meet: Claire McDaniels

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