Homer Central - Blue Pride Spotlight Podcast

Blue Pride Spotlight: Holiday Concerts

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This time the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the holiday concerts planned this month around the school district. Take a few minutes out from this busy time of the year, plan to relax and enjoy the talents of Homer students as they perform the sounds of the season. There are plenty of opportunities to see and hear high quality holiday concerts without traveling very far. The festivities begin Wednesday, December 5th with the Intermediate School Concert featuring 5th and 6th grades chorus, Soul Singer and Advanced Band performances. The Bonne' Auditorium at Homer Intermediate/Junior High School is again the sight for the Grade 3 Concert on Tuesday, December 11th. Mrs. Katrina Kahl leads the group as they plan to perform "Hip-Hop Reindeer", "Hannukah is Coming" and other holiday favorites. On Wednesday, December 12 th, the Gymnatorium at Hartnett Elementary School in Truxton is the site for their holiday celebration. Songs will include "You're a Mean One Mr. Grinch"…"Wenceslas, The Good King Meets a Yankee" and the school bands rendition of "Jolly Old St. Nicholas." December 13th is the date for the High School Instrumental Concert. The school's Jazz Band will perform "White Christmas" and "Jingle Bell Rock", while the Concert Band features a special narration of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas' by Principal Fred Farah. The High School Choral, Ruby Rhythms and Blue Notes select singing ensembles will gather on Tuesday, December 18th in the High School auditorium. The performance is sure to provide an evening of enjoyment for all who attend. To round out the month of December, the district's seventh and eighth graders will perform in the Junior High School's concert on December 19th in the Bonne Auditorium. The Swing Choir, Junior High Chorale, Jazz Band and Concert Band are sure to provide an entertaining evening that will include songs like "Little Saint Nick", "African Noel", "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy" and "Dreaming of December." All K-8 performances begin at 7 p.m. and 9-12 concerts at 7:30. All are free to the public and allow for a brief respite from this busy time of the year. Come watch some of the district's stars as they perform the sounds of the season in Homer Schools holiday concerts, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Erik Gustafson

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on Erik Gustafson, the 2007 Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge Grand Prize winner. Erik, a sixth grade student at Homer Intermediate School, is the youngest student ever to win the Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge, having been selected for the top prize out of submissions from 79,000 middle school students and 40 finalists nationwide. Erik and the other finalists traveled on an all expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. to decide who would walk away with the top prize of a $20,000 college scholarship. This year's theme for the competition was "Operation Green". Erik's project entitled "The Stream is Rising but the pH is Falling: Acid Rain and Stream Volume", tracked the pH level in the stream behind his house and the effect of rainfall in increasing the acidity of the water. He kept data on the depth and velocity of the stream to calculate water volume, measured the stream's pH, and kept track of any daily rainfall. The results supported his hypothesis that there is a correlation between a stream's pH and its volume. In addition to his grand prize scholarship, Erik has been chosen to participate in an upcoming episode of the Discovery Channel's hit program Mythbusters with hosts Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman. The entire school community is proud of Erik and his efforts in the competition. Janet Oeschle, a retired teacher from the Intermediate School who has been instrumental in organizing the school's Science Fair and involvement in the regional science competition for years, said that she is bursting with pride over the accomplishments of Erik and all of the Science Fair participants over the years. She added that events like these help students to demonstrate their abilities outside of the regular classroom and to shine in more non-traditional ways. Erik lives in Cortlandville with his parents Olaf and Paula Gustafson, his brothers Aaron and James and sister, Julia. He enjoys playing Little League baseball, as well as piano and trumpet and is a fossil and mineral collector who has dug for dinosaur bones in Montana. Erik Gustafson…the 2007 Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge Grand Prize Winner…this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Yang Yanchao

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on Yang Yanchao, a visiting Chinese Guest teacher who will be working in Homer over the next two years. Mr. Yang…known by his American name Younger, is part of the Chinese Guest Teacher Program. The program seeks to address the shortage of qualified teachers of Chinese in the United States by giving host schools an opportunity to start a new program affordably and to participate in an international exchange. Born and raised in a small village in China, life was not easy for Younger and his farming family. Most people in his village had just enough food to eat and few families sent their children past middle school because their labor was needed to work the family farm. Mr. Yang was one of the lucky children who were able to complete college due to the fact that his parents valued education and sacrificed so that he could attend college in the hopes of leading a more enriched life. Mr. Yang knew he wanted to be a teacher from a young age. After high school, he was fortunate to attend the number one teachers college in his province… the Xingyang (Sheen-Young) Teachers College, where he majored in English. Since graduation, he has taught English in both a senior high school and, for the last four years, in a preschool education normal school. Younger says that he was excited about coming to the U.S. because it offered him the opportunity to live and work with real Americans… which will translate into helping him to become a better teacher for his students. He says his goal while here is to try to help people in the school and community to learn more about China…to get to know each other better and to lessen misunderstandings between cultures. The Homer Central School District is very fortunate to have been selected as one of forty-two districts nationwide, and the only district in New York State, to sponsor a Guest Teacher. What makes the opportunity even more special is that the district has been blessed with Mr. Yang, who has made a seamless transition from his Chinese school faculty to Homer's teaching staff. Mr. Yang Yanchao…this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Retiring Educator Class of 2007

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the retiring educator class of 2007. Diana Moreland, Barb Wood, Chris Frare, Rich Cecconi, Susan VanDamme, Janet Oeschle, and Jim Luchsinger will be retiring at the end of June after years of dedicated service to the students and families of the Homer district. Diana, a kindergarten teacher at Homer Elementary, leaves the district after 32 years of working with our community's youth. Her colleagues point to her deep caring for her students, her unique ability of meeting them at their level of need and her help in mentoring new teachers to the profession. Barb Wood, a physical education teacher in the same building, has been with the district for her entire career of 33 years. She has worked in the Intermediate and Junior High School buildings and has called the elementary school home since 1986. She is a published author, having written a book on home/school based developmental physical education programs and has coached girl's field hockey and various sports teams. Chris Frare, a grade 8 mathematics teacher at the Junior High school, retires after 32 years in the district. Her efforts through the years have helped students prepare for the rigors of mathematics at the high school and beyond. Chris met her husband Jerry while working at the school and joins him in retirement at the end of the school year. Rich Cecconi, a Grade 8 Science teacher at the Junior High, leaves the district after working with students for 33 years. Chic, as he is affectionately called, has also served the district's students for many years as a coach, putting a major imprint on the boy's lacrosse program. Susan VanDamme, a second grade teacher at Hartnett Elementary, retires after 32 years in the district… all at the Truxton building. Susan is referred to as a child-centered, spirited person who has run the 1st and 2nd grade garage sale at the building for ten years with the proceeds helping to fund classroom activities. Janet Oeschle, currently a fifth grade teacher, retires from Homer Intermediate School this June. She has worked in the district for 17 years and began her career as a special education teacher. Janet has worked doggedly in creating and organizing the school's Science Fair, served as the faculty advisor of Student Council, and exhibits patience and kindness to all her students. Jim Luchsinger, a physical education teacher at Homer High, has worked in the district for 30 years. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Jim has coached numerous sports, most recently returning courtside as the boy's varsity basketball coach. Jim is also a nationally recognized lacrosse official and recent grandfather. The district wishes Diana, Barb, Chris, Rich, Susan, Janet and Jim the best of luck in their future endeavors and thanks them for their collective 209 years of dedicated service. The retiring educator class of 2007…this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next fall as we, once again, will spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Living History Day

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 May 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the Sergeant Kenneth M. Eaton Living History Day. The former Military History Day, now renamed in honor of the late owner of the Homeville Museum, is organized by High School teachers Joe Cortese, Paul Andre and Marilee Comerford and will be held at Homer High School on Friday, May 18 from 8:20 to 2:25.
Events include a fencing demonstration and full combat demonstration, live performances on the showmobile, rappelling from the side of the high school building, cannon volleys by the living history club, Celtic music and dance, a Cortland County Historical Society Local History Exhibit and antique and vintage trucks, cars and fire equipment.
Event organizers encourage folks to come view the displays and talks by over 30 presenters as well as to peruse the 1890 House exhibit, Guess that Artifact. At 1 p.m. an honors ceremony for those military men and women, past and present, who have served our country is planned. The ceremony is dedicated to Shawn Falter, the Homer alumnus who was killed earlier this year in Iraq.
The Sergeant Kenneth M. Eaton Living History Day - May 18th - this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Karlee McMasters

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 11 May 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a Homer Intermediate School sixth grader raising money for cancer research... 11 year old Karlee McMasters. Karlee, the daughter of Don and Kimberly McMasters of Homer, decided to help raise money for cancer after finding out about an exciting event near her father's place of employment in Syracuse. A group of people were shaving their heads to help raise funds and awareness for the St. Baldrick's Foundation...a national foundation formed in 1999 whose mission is to raise awareness and funds to cure kid's cancer by supporting cancer research. In the past, Karlee had cut her hair for Locks of Love and, with it being shorter, decided that this would be the next logical step. She participated in the St Baldrick's Day event with the hope of raising five hundred dollars and to help make a difference. To date, Karlee has raised more than thirty three hundred dollars and shows no sign of slowing down. She said that helping others feels good and that she has received nothing but positive feedback and support throughout the process. Karlee plans to start a girl's group next school year where members will, once again, shave their heads to help raise funds for the St. Baldrick's Foundation. Those interested in donating to Karlee's cause, can access her website by going to the Homer Schools district website at www.homercentral.org, locating Karlee's Blue Pride Spotlight and clicking on the links provided. Karlee McMasters, and her personal crusade to help combat kid's cancer, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children. For the Blue Pride Spotlight: I'm Tom Turck. St. Baldrick's Foundation: http://mail/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.stbaldricks.org/index.html Karlee McMaste's website: http://mail/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/shavee_info.html?ShaveeID=68

Blue Pride Spotlight: Crystal Gilmore

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 11 May 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a local woman and the organization that she helped establish whose mission is to raise awareness of autism and to support families in their efforts while raising their children. Crystal Gilmore is a teacher assistant at Homer Intermediate School who has worked in the district since 2001. After beginning her work with a student with autism, Crystal soon realized that she needed better training to help meet the child's social, emotional, and educational needs. She read books, conducted research on the internet, and connected with folks in our community who had experience in this area. Because of this, Crystal soon found herself being approached by others for information. Together with Amy Clark, a first grade teacher from Cortland, the two started a support group for parents and staff members that quickly grew to more than 70 people on the mailing list. It became obvious that there was a great deal of interest in the topic of autism which led them to join forces with a national organization. Today, the National Autism Association...Cortland Chapter...continues the efforts of it founders. A recent event raised more than 8,000 dollars that will be used to continue support group meetings, bring featured speakers to the community, create a parent and teacher lending library, develop an organization website, and formulate curricular units on autism that can be loaned out to area educators for use in the classroom. Additionally, a collaboration with SUNY Cortland and Area Teacher Centers hopes to result in a bi-monthly autism workshop series for Fall 2007. Anyone interested in getting on the mailing list or learning more about the organization should contact Crystal Gilmore at 607-753-3878. The National Autism Association's Cortland Chapter: and the efforts of its leaders...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Benefit Basketball Game

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a recent benefit basketball game at Homer High School. Homer High's cheerleading squad took on the boy's varsity basketball team in a benefit basketball contest and silent auction to raise money for the Shawn Falter Memorial Scholarship. Private First Class Falter, Homer Class of '99, was killed on January 20, 2007 while honorably serving in Iraq. The girls' coaches, Tami Potter and Ashley McIntyre, and the cheerleaders are to be commended for their organization of the event. They point to the many people who volunteered their time and talent to help out and the greater Homer business community who supported the effort with donations of cash and prizes for the silent auction. At the end of the evening, the cheerleading team was able to present a check for thirteen hundred dollars ($1,300) to the Homer Education Foundation that will help to fund the Shawn Falter Memorial Scholarship. If you are interested in donating, please go to www.homercentral.org, and click on Homer Education Foundation to download the donation form. Further information about the scholarship and the Education Foundation can also be obtained by calling Mike Falls at 607-842-6216. Homer students raising money in memory of one of their own... this week's Homer Schools Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: 2nd Annual International Night

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the Second Annual International Night at Homer High School. The International Club presents the 2nd Annual "International Night" on March 13th from 6 - 8:30 p.m. The entire Homer area community is invited to what proves to be an enjoyable evening of family entertainment. The lobby will be filled with interesting displays designed by High School language students presenting different topics of interest about nations from around the world. The cafeteria will serve as an International Café with other nation's treats to try and coffees and teas to enjoy. Foreign Language students plan a talent show from 7 to 8 p.m. that will introduce different songs, talents, and instruments from around the globe. When attending, be sure to take part in Mexican Bingo that begins at 8 p.m. You might just walk away as one of the night's lucky winners. Homer High's 2nd Annual International Night...March 13th from 6 to 8:30 p.m...this week's Homer Schools Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: HJH F.O.S.S. Program

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a new and exciting course soon to be offered at Homer Junior High School. The "Fundamentals of Student Success" Program or FOSS is a class that will concentrate on the essential skills that help to determine student success at school. The new offering is a five-week, ten-session course, offered each Monday and Thursday during tenth period of the school day. The class will begin in February and runs through March. This pilot program is being offered to students in both seventh and eighth grade who have been identified by teachers who would benefit from this pointed instruction. The fundamental skills to be addressed include reading, writing and test taking tips, organizing student planners and notebooks, studying for tests, daily work habits, improving listening skills, notetaking and teacher/student rapport. The program instructor is Judy Morris. Mrs. Morris is a former Junior High Academic Intervention Services (AIS) teacher who is an expert in helping students acquire or improve upon the skills needed for academic success. The "Fundamentals of Student Success" Program...FOSS ...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Meghan Marchetti

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on Homer High School senior Meghan Marchetti. Meghan, the daughter of Victor and Elen Marchetti of Cortland, was recently accepted to attend Harvard University this fall through early admission where she will also play women's varsity hockey. While her major is undecided, Meghan looks forward to the rigors of her academic and athletic future. She is excited about the opportunity to attend Harvard but says that, because of her busy schedule, the reality of heading off to school hasn't quite set in yet. In addition to her academics, where she currently ranks first in her class, Meghan participates in soccer, lacrosse, and National Honor Society. Her substantial commitment in Girls Club Hockey has allowed Meghan to gain the skills necessary to play hockey at a division one level. Meghan has two brothers in the district...Vic, a junior at Homer High and Joe, an eighth grader at the Junior High School. Good luck to Meghan as she finishes her senior year and heads to Harvard in the fall. Homer High's Meghan Marchetti, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Homer High Teacher Assistants

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a dedicated group of Teaching Assistants at Homer High School. Alice Kniffen, Hilda Seager, SueEllen McNerney, Beth Ellerson, Fran Gysel, Pat Whitlock and Staci Harris have collectively worked over 85 years for the Homer School District. The high school Teaching Assistants or T.A.'s are responsible, caring women whose hard work frees up special education teachers from clerical duties to do direct instruction, but they are much more than that. T.A's currently push-in to a total of seventeen academic classes where they help students maintain focus in class, scribe class notes for those who struggle to spell, and read materials and tests to students who struggle to read. In the resource room, they provide reinforcement activities and test modifications under the teacher's direction, as well as maintain a written communication system with over forty other staff members each week. They also function as job coaches in the community for students whose individual program includes a work experience. The T.A.'s are the essential support system that helps the individualized programs for over one hundred and forty special needs students in the high school run smoothly. They genuinely care about the students and work hard with the special education teachers who wish to recognize the contributions of this special group of professionals. Homer High Schools Teaching Assistants...this weeks Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week recipients. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children

Blue Pride Spotlight: Homer...Healthy Schools

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Sun, 14 Jan 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on activities that promote a healthy lifestyle for children and staff of the district. Jennifer Hamm, Betsy Gray and others at Homer Intermediate School regularly schedule time to walk the perimeter of the Intermediate/Junior High School campus. The teachers say that children need a break from the rigors of the classroom during the day and to get that they take a ten minute walk after lunch. Children chat with their friends and return to the room ready for the afternoon's lessons. Children say they look forward to the social time with their classmates, and that the walk helps them focus for the afternoon classes by releasing the extra energy that comes from sitting all day. In other schools across the country, making positive life choices is taught to children in health classes with little or no carry over into other academic areas. Because making these choices has been a focus in the district for some time, teachers have become adept at incorporating the importance of making healthy choices into their daily lessons across curriculum and subject matter boundaries. For staff, the district has also taken steps to promote lifelong wellness. Fitness rooms in three of the districts five buildings allow staff the opportunity to stay healthy and in good physical shape. Additionally, professional staff development day activities offer a wide range of options designed to promote lifelong fitness and employee health. Homer Schools...healthy children....healthy staff...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Homer Elementary Award

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride spotlight shines on an award recently given to students and staff at Homer Elementary School. Rita Rosenberg and her staff from the SUNY Cortland Field Placement Office presented principal Ruth King with the "Exceptional Commitment to Mentoring Future Educators" Award. The award is given to area elementary schools that attend the office's education fair and show a sincere dedication to hosting and helping mold those interested in the teaching field. It was presented at an all school celebration complete with balloons and a cake earlier this year. Rosenberg says that this is the first year the award has been given and by presenting it in person, it provides those in her office a firsthand look at the many fine things that are going on in the schools that host future educators. She added that since the assembly she and her staff were invited back to participate in a guest reader activity in a kindergarten classroom and that being present in the schools has strengthened the all ready fine working relationship between the college and the folks at Homer Elementary. Homer Elementary School, recognized for their contribution to future educators...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Building Project Information

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Tue, 19 Dec 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the exciting new plans that will make Homer Schools an even better place to learn. The Board of Education recently voted unanimously to support the planning of a building project that will increase the health and safety capabilities of the district and see upgrades in all buildings. As part of the plan, Homer Elementary School will gain six additional classrooms, a new hallway to connect the original portion of the building to the newer portion, a new cafeteria, and the remodeling of the main lobby and entrance. This work will make the multi-level building handicap accessible and increase security as people visiting the school will need to register at the main office before entering. The façade of the building will also be rebuilt, returning it to a more time period appropriate condition and see the return of the re-cast of the large bell that hung on the original Homer Academy. At Homer Intermediate/Junior High School, plans call for extensive in-classroom work to include new flooring, heating univents, ceilings and shelving units in most teaching areas. At Homer High School, the cafeteria will be expanded to accommodate the larger number of students who remain on campus for lunch. A new serving area featuring a deli line will offer students additional food options. At Hartnett Elementary School and across the district, the public address system and video surveillance capabilities will be improved to continue efforts to increase student and staff safety. Educational Building Aid and solid financial planning result in a capital project that will have no increase in taxes for district residents. Homer will receive 95% of the 16.5 million dollar cost from the state of New York. The state has also established a one-time only pool of money to assist schools in their building projects. For Homer, these EXCEL monies total 750,000 dollars. Additionally, the district has also reserved 900,000 dollars to be used for repairs and construction costs. A series of public hearings will be scheduled through the months of January and February leading up to the public vote in March 2007. With a successful vote, the district plans to break ground in the summer of 2008 after final architectural drawings have been completed and the State Education approval has been given. Preliminary illustrations of the project will be available next week at any district building and on the school's website at www.homercentral.org. Homer's plan in building for the future...this week's Homer Schools Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Lindsay Wilson

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Blue Pride Spotlight shines on Lindsay Wilson, a junior honor student at Homer High School. Lindsay, a native of Truxton, has a long held interest in both art and jewelry design. Her eclectic designs are currently housed on Homer's North Main Street store: Southwest Jewelry. A vast array of beaded and glass work jewelry is currently available for retail. Lindsay began designing jewelry as a young girl while on camping trips with her extended family. She would teach cousins how to piece together designs and would spend time together making family jewelry. This early interest led her to take more art classes in the high school and has enabled her to make jewelry that she has worn to both Homer's Cotillion and Prom. Lindsay is described by her family as a wonderful free-spirit who is comfortable with herself as a person. She attended Hartnett Elementary School and has expressed an interest in giving back to her community by returning there to teach the girls who attend the new Hartnett Girls' Club how to make beaded jewelry. Lindsay plays lacrosse and field hockey at Homer High School. Her field hockey coach, Ms. Kate Smith, describes Lindsay as an effervescent leader who displays the traits of character education on a daily basis. As for her future plans, Lindsay is currently considering furthering her love of art through either interior design or teaching. Miss Lindsay Wilson, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Ryan's Kids

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a group of Homer Elementary kindergartners sending their love and compassion to youngsters in war-torn Iraq. Students in Suzanne Parmiter's kindergarten class have been busy collecting clothes and toys to share with Iraqi children who have been left homeless and parentless from the war in their homeland. The person responsible for bringing the children's plight to Parmiter is Ryan Wooldridge, a soldier who is with the U.S. Army's Civil Affairs Battalion stationed in Iraq. Parmiter learned from his family that Ryan worked closely with these children everyday and had asked them to send clothing, stuffed animals and school supplies for the children in lieu of gifts for him. Soon after, Parmiter organized her family and friends...also soliciting the help of Wooldridge's mother, Becky Jenin. Together with her class, they began to collect items that could be sent to Ryan and his kids. Since September, the items have continued to come. More than six large boxes of gifts have been shipped to Iraq and are expected to arrive between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Parmiter says that she is touched and astounded by the outpouring of support she and her class has received from the Homer community and is honored to be able to help Ryan in his quest to make the suffering of these children lessened even for a brief time. They are still accepting donations of clothes, toys and stuffed animals, which may be dropped off at the Homer Elementary School main office located off of the village green in downtown Homer. Gifts for Ryan's kids...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Living History Club

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on Homer High School's Living History Club. Organized by High School art teacher Paul Andre, the club consists of more than 30 active members and is dedicated to understanding history through hands on experiences. For the past five years, students have prepared for and participated in war re-enactments, with members being immersed in the culture, style of dress, customs, language, and the food of the time period. The club comprises the only high school artillery battery in the country and participates in more than ten war reenactments each year. Three cannons, built and owned by the group, are transported to the battlefield where the reenactments take place. The students returned earlier this week from Cedar Creek, in Middletown Virginia, where they spent the weekend re-enacting that Civil War battle and living the life that one would have experienced in the mid 1800's. Andre points out that a wonderful by-product of the members' involvement has been improved grades and a self-confidence and sense of belonging that did not exist before their membership in the club. Those reasons, he adds, are the real payoff that keeps him so enthusiastic and dedicated to giving hundreds of hours each year as the advisor. The clubs activities are supported by the extensive fundraising of its members. Donations to the Living History Club can be made through the newly formed Homer Education Foundation. Homer High School's Living History Club...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Studio 58

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on Hartnett Elementary School's new Show Choir....Studio 58. Studio 58 was created by co-directors and Hartnett Staff Members Karen Keefe and Alison Mastroe. They drew upon the Character Education principles of mutual respect for one another and displaying school-wide dignity to promote an interest in the performing arts by providing moments of distinction for students of all ages and backgrounds. Studio 58, a chorus with a new twist, has 21 students in grades 3-6 that are showcasing their incredible talent with singing, acting and choreographed dancing in original vignettes. These committed students meet twice a week to work on vocal warm-ups, singing in rounds, learning new steps for dances, memorizing lines and "getting in character" for a vignette. Studio 58's first performance will be held on November 7th at Hartnett Elementary School during a Character Education assembly on RESPECT. The group's first vignette will present a group of down trodden hobos who have experienced a myriad of difficulties in life. They renew their spirits and declare that by respecting one another people can get through anything together and they showcase this in a singing/dancing number to "Side by Side." After a quick costume change, Studio 58 will then take the audience back to the time of knights and castles in the performance of "Three Perfect Peaches". With a host of funny characters, we find that there is only one young man who demonstrates the qualities of respect to win the heart of Princess Kristen. Lastly, Studio 58 will perform a choreographed a dance number to Aretha Franklin's RESPECT and will teach it to the entire school. Hartnett Elementary's Show Choir...Studio 58...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Lane Hopkins

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 16 Oct 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a Homer High School's Trap shooting wizard...16 year-old Lane Hopkins. Lane, a junior, took home an individual gold medal in the Junior Division Wabble Trap shooting event held in July at the Empire State Summer Games in Rochester. He successfully shot 142 out of 200 targets over two days as he helped his Central Region team to an overall bronze medal. Lane says that Wabble Trap differs from conventional trap shooting in that the clay birds are thrown at various angles from the trap house and at a considerably higher speed...with some reaching 110 miles an hour. He became interested in the sport through his father, Lance and uncle Lee Hopkins...who have shot clay pigeons at the Scott Rod and Gun Club for years. Lane says that it is an expensive sport...he having spent more then $1,000 in shells this year alone. He hopes to continue competing and plans to qualify for the opportunity to represent the United States in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China. Homer High's Lane Hopkins, and his efforts at the Empire State Games in Rochester, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: School Violence and Bullying Prevention

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 06 Oct 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on upcoming district events targeted at bullying and violence prevention. School violence and bullying behaviors have elicited ever-increasing interest and concern not only in Homer but all school communities. With large scale tragedies throughout our country there is a continual quest to understand, and ultimately predict and prevent such acts of violence. An equally important and devastating subset of these headliner events is bullying in schools and its contributory role to the school place violence phenomenon. In an effort to take a proactive stance in these matters, the Homer Schools staff will spend next week's Professional Development Day working on this topic of school violence and bullying with Kelly Zenna. Dr. Zenna is an expert in the field whose work has been featured on CNN, the AE channel, the Washington Post and the Boston Globe. She helped in the aftermath at Columbine High School in Colorado and has written a book about her experiences there. In addition to the staff development day work shop... plans are underway for each building in the district to conduct a variety of school drills later this month that will fine tune efforts to ensure that faculty and staff knows what to do in the event of an actual school emergency. Finally, on October 16th, a FBI special agent will be presenting a parent workshop in Cyber Safety. This event will be held in the Intermediate/Junior High Schools Bonne` Auditorium beginning at 7 p.m. Homer Schools...taking a proactive approach to school violence and bullying...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: National Merit Scholarship Program

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 29 Sep 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Blue Pride Spotlight shines on three Homer High School students recently recognized for their academic ability. Tory Keith, Sara Sirois, and Amie Whitlock have been named as Commended students in the 2007 National Merit Scholarship Program. A letter of commendation from the school and National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which conducts the program, will be presented to this group of scholastically talented seniors. Commended students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.4 million students who entered the 2007 competition by taking the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The PSAT, taken last fall, tests student competencies in reading, writing, and math and is a precursor to the well-known Scholastic Aptitude Test or SAT; one of the measures used by universities in determining college entrants. The girls shared that they are honored to be recognized and see it as another step in the process to finalizing their high school careers and setting their sights to the future. Sara plans to attend a four-year university and study biology, Tory hopes to pursue psychology at Binghamton University and Amie would like to attend SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry to study biology. Seniors Amie Whitlock, Tory Keith and Sara Sirois, and their recognition as Commended students in the 2007 National Merit Scholarship Program, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipients. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Eric Boyden and Christina Oscsodal

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 26 Jun 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines two special individuals, 11th grade student Eric Boyden and High School teacher Christina Oscsodal. Our first Blue Pride Spotlight shines on Homer High School Junior Eric Boyden, who this past Spring competed in the Pennsylvania High School Rodeo Association's State Championship and National qualifier in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Throughout the competition Eric did a fantastic job as he and his partner placed first in the Team Roping competition. Eric eventually went on to be named the competition's "Rookie of the Year". In placing first, Eric earned the right to go onto the National High School Rodeo Association's Championship in Springfield, Illinois where on July 24th - 30th he will compete against the nation's top rodeo cowboys. The week's second Blue Pride Spotlight shines on High School Social Studies teacher Christina Oscsodal and her International Guest Speaker Series. This program, started in 2004, seeks to give Homer students a chance to meet people from all over the world. To date, the program has brought guest speakers from 28 nations to the classroom to share their lives while giving students an opportunity to have a deeper understanding of cultural similarities and differences. Guest speakers are able to dispel myths and talk about history from the point of view of another nation. Students participating in this program have expressed a great interest and appreciation for these experiences. Eric Boyden and Christina Oscsodal, this week's Homer Schools Co-Blue Pride Spotlights of the week.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Hartnett Play

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 09 Jun 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines on the Hartnett Play "Let It Be" and it's writer, Alison Mastroe. On June 9th and 10th at 7:00 pm in the Hartnett School Gymnasium, students from throughout Hartnett Elementary will be presenting the original play "Let It Be", written by 4th grade teacher Alison Mastroe. This story, loosely based on the Beatles themselves, will feature songs written and sung by them throughout their career. Since February of this year, 73 students from grades K through 6 have been rehearsing for the play by learning lines and choreographing dance numbers. In addition, students have taken advantage of participating in the stage crew by working on the set and props. Throughout this time the Truxton community has rallied support for this annual event through its enthusiastic attendence and many parent volunteers. What better way to relax and enjoy the hard work and dedication of our district's students than attending the Hartnett Elementary Play, "Let It Be", on June 9th and 10th at 7:00 pm in the Hartnett School Gymnasium, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Homer Shakespearean Society

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 22 May 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines on the Homer Shakespearean Society's performance of Shakespeare's All's Well That Ends Well. Showcasing the many talent's of Homer students, The Homer Shakespearean Society will perform Shakespeare's All's Well That End's Well for the first time in it's fifty-seven year history on Friday, May 19th and Saturday, May 20th at 7:30 pm in the High School Auditorium. This play recalls William Shakespeare's tale of unrequited love and betrayal. When Helena, the orphaned ward of the Countess of Rossillion, a widow with an open heart and a handsome son named Bertram, cures the languishing King of France, he grants her Bertram's hand in marriage. But the proud boy runs away to war to escape a match he deems so far beneath him. Humility and ambition collide on the battlefield and in the bedroom, as one of Shakespeare's most resourceful and resilient heroines embarks on a quest across Europe to win the heart of the man she loves. Both of these performances allow for a great opportunity to enjoy live theatre in Homer. Come watch some of the district's stars as they perform William Shakespeare's All's Well That Ends Well, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Cortland Youth Leadership Program

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 15 May 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines on a group of Homer students putting their citizenship skills to work through the Cortland County Youth Leadership program. This past year, five exceptional Homer High School students were chosen to participate in the CCYL program based upon attributes such as personal and team leadership, group processing, problem solving, decision making, and oral presentation abilities As part of the program, Tayler Brown, Codie Garrison, Caitlin McMahon, Mark Perry, and Forrest Young led by high school teacher Jason Graves, attended monthly meetings to discuss opportunities in the Cortland area and how the students could utilize these opportunities in their adult lives. In addition, they undertook a project to make improvements to the Factory Brook Nature Trail behind the Homer Intermediate-Junior High School. At the end of the program the students presented their project to other students and community members who participated in the CCYL program. The Homer students were chosen by the committee unanimously to have the most outstanding presentation. Making our community a better place to live in, Homer students and their faculty advisor ... this week's Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipients

Blue Pride Spotlight: Homer Athletic Hall of Fame

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Thu, 04 May 2006 22:39:49 GMT

On Tuesday, May 16th, during the halftime of the Homer - Cortland Boy's Lacrosse game, the Homer School District will recognize the inaugural Homer Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. The Athletic Hall of Fame was created with the goal of recognizing the many contributions of various individuals to Homer Athletics. Based on their area of contribution as an athlete, coach, administrator, or athletic contributor, nominees were reviewed and selected by a Hall of Fame committee consisting of both the High School Principal and Assistant Principal. three teacher-coaches, two community members, and the Athletic Director. In future years, Homer will continue to induct new nominees at a fall "Hall of Fame" home football game. This year's inaugural class includes nine nominees. As an athlete, Bob Avery, Gerry Bell, Larry Brady, John Durkee, and Michelle Franklin-Rauber will all be inducted, for coaches, George Butts, Michael Norris, and Richard Wagner, and finally as an athletic contributor, Al Butler. The inaugural class of the Homer Athletic Hall of Fame, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipients.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Mr. Chuck Drake

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 28 Apr 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines on Homer Intermediate teacher, Mr. Chuck Drake. Born and raised in Bay Shore Long Island, Chuck knew at the early age of fifteen that he wanted to become an elementary school teacher. During the late 1960's he came to Central New York where he ultimately earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Elementary Education from Cortland State. The fall after graduation Chuck began the first six years of his career working at Homer Intermediate School as a fourth grade teacher. In 1979, he switched to Homer Elementary where he spent the next seven years as a 3rd grade teacher, a time which he describe as "a wonderful experience". Finally in 1986, he made his final move back to fourth grade at the Intermediate School where he has spent the last twenty years of his career in a building with students that in his words he "will always feel a personal connection with, a feeling that he couldn't imagine having with any other job." As he looks forward to his retirement this spring and later moving to North Carolina to spend more time with his family, Chuck expressed that he will always remember the Homer community, a community that in many ways has grown alongside him throughout his career. Homer Intermediate School fourth grade teacher, Mr. Chuck Drake, this weeks Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Mrs. Judy Morris

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Thu, 20 Apr 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines on Mrs. Judy Morris, Academic Intervention teacher at Homer Junior High School. Judy was born and grew up in Cortland, where she attended Cortland High School. Upon her graduation she attended Cortland State receiving her Bachelor's degree in History education and Master's degree in Reading and English education. She began her early teaching career at the Cortland Madison BOCES where she worked as an instructor for their GED classes. Following this position she moved onto the Fabius Pompey School District as a High School Reading teacher. In the early 1980's, Judy made her final career change to Homer where she has worked for the last 24 years. At the Junior High she has served as a Reading, History, and English teacher in addition to working with the "C" Team and in her current role as an AIS instructor. Through her time in the classroom, Judy has also touched the lives of Homer's children through the Character Education Program and Junior High Student Government. Although she is looking forward to retirement at the end of this year and spending time with her three daughters, Karen, Kelly, and Amy, as well as walking her dogs, and taking time to travel, she will always carry with her fond memories of Homer and the many accomplishments of her students, especially the lives she touched while working with the "C" Team. Mrs. Judy Morris, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Hartnett Drug Quiz Team

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 07 Apr 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines on a group of Hartnett Elementary students and their advisors, Christina Hartnett and Sue Rosato, who recently competed in the Eckerd Drug Quiz Bowl. The Eckerd Drug Quiz Bowl is a competition for fifth through eighth graders that aims to heighten awareness about the harmful use of substances by providing an opportunity to have fun while gaining knowledge. Students build skills and self-confidence needed to make safe, healthy choices in life, especially choices about the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. In preparation teams study facts about alcohol, tobacco, other drugs and how to positively deal with the pressures and stresses teens face today. The Hartnett school team consisting of students Taryn Heath, Michael Hartnett, Spence Hartnett, Stephanie Steed, Dyson Sprouse, Ian Heath, and Zac Moore won our local Cortland County competition and advanced to the regional competition in Syracuse. Another great example of achievement in our schools...the Hartnett Elementary School Drug Quiz Bowl team and their advisors, Christina Hartnett and Sue Rosato, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipients.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Jan Darr

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 31 Mar 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines on Homer Intermediate School volunteer, Jan Darr. Growing up in West Caldwell, New Jersey Jan Hoermann originally started out on a career in business attending Lebanon Valley College for Sociology and Business Administration. Upon the completion of her undergraduate studies she began working for Merrill Lynch in New Jersey ultimately coming to Central New York in pursuit of a Graduate Degree in Economics from the prestigious Maxwell School at Syracuse University. It was during this time 22 years ago that the newlywed Mrs. Darr settled down in Homer with her husband, Russ. Here they began to raise a family that would in the end consist of their two sons, Adam and Aaron, and their daughter Hannah. Her children in school, Jan began to immerse herself into the school community. With a strong belief in the importance of literacy, Jan first began as a parent volunteer helping run the Elementary Book Fair, and eventually organizing and running the Intermediate Book Fair which on average, annually brings in over four thousand dollars to be used in purchasing additional books for use in the Intermediate School. In addition to her work with the book fair, Jan has been actively involved in other school community activities such as the SCA, curriculum committees, the 6th grade play, and teacher appreciation luncheons as well as working as an Intermediate School substitute. Described as a dedicated, caring individual who is always looking to lend a helping hand, Jan is forever interested in ways she can help make school a better place for learning. Benefiting the interests of students and staff at the Intermediate School, parent volunteer, Mrs. Jan Darr, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Lizzie Siegle

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 24 Mar 2006 22:39:49 GMT

Today the spotlight shines on National Merit Scholarship Finalist, Lizzie Siegle. Lizzie Siegle, daughter of Victor and Anne Siegle, has recently been named a finalist for the 2006 National Merit Scholarship Awards. The National Merit Scholarship Awards are an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. These scholarships take into account a wide variety of student achievement including scholarship, extra-curriculars, as well as community and volunteer work. Ranked number one in her class, Lizzie has also received recognition for a wide range of academic honors including the Rensselaer Mathematics and Science Medal, International Club's Top Award for Spanish, and the Homer Science Teacher's Award for highest averages. While in high school Lizzie has been involved in a variety of extra-curricular activities including Varsity Tennis, Student Government, Student Council, and this spring's musical "Suessical the Musical" as Gertrude. Outside of school, she has been involved with volunteer work at the Brewster House, the Homer Recreation Department, and the Homer Center for the Arts. This fall Lizzie plans to attend Tufts University as a psychology major. Bringing honor and recognition to herself, school, and community...Lizzie Siegle, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient.

Blue Pride Spotlight: March, Music Month in Homer Schools

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 10 Mar 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week the spotlight shines on March, Music Month in Homer Schools. Celebration of Music Month kicks off with the High School Musical March 10th and 11th. You won't want to miss this fantastic presentation of "Seussical the Musical" in the High School Auditorium. The following week the High School Auditorium is again the venue as the All District Concert is presented on March 16th. This concert showcases bands from all levels of the district as well as the high school and junior high jazz bands. The Music Month commemoration continues with the Junior High Musical "The Drama Club Must Die " March 24th in Bonne Auditorium. Our celebration of Music Month in Homer wraps up on March 29th with an All-district Vocal Concert In the High School Auditorium. The High School and Junior High choirs, Junior High Swing Choir, Boyz Noyz, Soul Singers, grade choruses, and Blue Notes are all slated to perform. We recognize and celebrate the musical talents of our community's children and their teachers as we invite you to come celebrate Music Month with Homer Schools...this week's Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Homer Science Fairs

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week the spotlight shines on two of Homer's most celebrated events, the Hartnett and Intermediate Science Fairs. Led by 5th grade teachers, Christina Hartnett at Hartnett Elementary and Janet Oechsle at the Intermediate, this year's Homer Science Fairs enjoyed great success. Encouraging participation from all students, the Science Fairs were conducted with the goals of fun, learning, and involvement as their centerpieces. Focusing on the Scientific Method, students were involved in conducting a wide range of experiments ranging from marshmallow propulsion and how different cow breeds affect milk production to the invention of a dishwasher and Oreo dunking machine. Based upon the levels of accomplishment demonstrated in their work, students were recognized for their achievement. Following the completion of our local the Science Fairs, outstanding projects are advanced to the Regional Science Fair Competition at the MOST in Syracuse where they again will be judged with other participating regional schools. We recognize and congratulate the academic efforts of our Homer students in reaching for the stars and beyond at the Hartnett and Intermediate Science Fairs.... this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Hartnett and Intermediate Science Fairs

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 03 Mar 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Blue Bride spotlight shines on two of Homer's most celebrated events, the Hartnett and Intermediate Science Fairs. Led by 5th grade teachers, Christina Hartnett at Hartnett Elementary and Janet Oechsle at the Intermediate, this year's Homer Science Fairs enjoyed great success. Encouraging participation from all students, the Science Fairs were conducted with the goals of fun, learning, and involvement as their centerpieces. Focusing on the Scientific Method, students were involved in conducting a wide range of experiments ranging from marshmallow propulsion and how different cow breeds affect milk production to the invention of a dishwasher and Oreo dunking machine. Based upon the levels of accomplishment demonstrated in their work, students were recognized for their achievement. Following the completion of our local the Science Fairs, outstanding projects are advanced to the Regional Science Fair Competition at the MOST in Syracuse where they again will be judged with other participating regional schools. We recognize and congratulate the academic efforts of our Homer students in reaching for the stars and beyond at the Hartnett and Intermediate Science Fairs.... this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week

Blue Pride Spotlight: Cortland Youth Bureau Spelling Bee

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Tue, 21 Feb 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Blue Pride Spotlight shines on two of Homer's finest spellers, Aaron Gustafson and Erica VanDyke. Aaron, a seventh grader, and Erica, an eighth grader at Homer Junior High, have advanced to the final round of the Cortland County Youth Bureau Spelling Bee. The contest, in its 42nd year, features a written spelling test, followed by two rounds of spelling in front of a live audience. This year, 17 students from Cortland City, Marathon and Homer Schools advanced to the semifinal round, held on February 15th at the Homer Intermediate/Jr. High Schools Bonne auditorium. Both Aaron and Erica survived the elimination round and will move on to the finals, which take place on Wednesday, March 1st at Cortland Junior/Senior High School. First Niagara Bank is again the sponsor for this highly contested event, and will award the winner a one thousand dollar savings bond. Congratulations to the eight spellers who have advanced to the final round. Homer students thriving in the Cortland Youth Bureau Spelling Bee...Aaron Gustafson and Erica VanDyke, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Scholastic Art Competition

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Tue, 07 Feb 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a group of Homer students putting their talents on display in an area art competition. Students from Homer Junior and Senior High Schools competed recently in the Time Warner Cable Scholastic Art competition held at Onondaga Community College. Students compete for awards in categories of drawing, painting, mixed media and jewelry design. This year, the event drew more than 5,000 entries from 300 schools statewide. High School senior Matt Fendya won the highest award, a gold key, for a group of eight pieces from several media. Matt also earned a silver key award for product design. Juniors Jeff Mack and Eric Boyden each won a silver key award...Jeff for mixed media and Eric for plans, models and illustration. Junior High schoolers Tori Nash and Shelby Withiam received silver key awards for apparel design. In addition, more than ten Homer students received honorable mentions for their outstanding art entries. Congratulations to all the students who took the time to create their pieces and enter this rigorous contest, competing with the best art students from across the state. Homer students and their fine showing at the Time Warner Cable Scholastic Art competition... this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: School Health Index

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Jan 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a program recently completed by Homer employees to evaluate and improve the health and wellness of district students and staff. The School Health Index is the result of a collaborative effort that included the faculty and staff from Homer Schools along with graduate students from SUNY Cortland's Health Education Program. The focus of this index is to assess and improve each district building's coordinated school health program, and to establish a framework that can be used to improve the quality of health and academic achievement of the districts students. In order to compile and evaluate each of eight specific areas, various team meetings were scheduled which included an expert in the content area being addressed for each particular module. The planning questions helped to generate discussion and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the building as they relate to each area. Action plans, complete with budget implications were developed and submitted to the New York State Healthy Schools organization for possible funding. The hope is to fund some of the action items, resulting in improved health, safety, and overall academic improvement of Homer students across the district. The School Health Index, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Horizons Program

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week, the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the Horizons Program, a project sponsored by the Homer Education Foundation. The idea for this summer enrichment program came from the district's teachers and will feature highly motivating courses for Homer students in Kindergarten through twelfth grades. Anticipated course offerings include a Tioughnioga River study class, medieval catapult construction, a Cortland County history through the study of the county's cemeteries course, a forensics class entitled CSI Homer, and art introductory classes in watercolors, ceramics, and photography. Program organizers are asking for community input into course offerings. If you have an idea for an enrichment activity, contact Peter Contento at Homer High School by the first week in February. Items to include in your class suggestions are the course title, brief description of course, target age group, and length of the class. A Homer Horizons Class Offerings brochure will be published later this spring after the input period has passed. Staff and students in the district are excited about the first addition of the enrichment program later this year. Teachers say that the summer program will offer exciting classes that every teacher dreams about doing during the regular school year, but rarely get to due to strict state guidelines and state mandated testing. Program organizers hope that this will be the first of many summer Horizon opportunities for the districts students. The Homer Education Foundation's Horizons Program, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Future Teachers Program

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Thu, 12 Jan 2006 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a group of four high school seniors going the extra mile to help younger students. Abby Dellow, Lisa Thomas, Sara VanCise, and Kim Ostrander each travel to the Homer Elementary School as part of an internship program in conjunction with the future teachers program. The internship program started back in 1997 with just one high school senior going to the Elementary school to assist teachers and students at the Kindergarten level. The program is aimed at giving exposure to seniors who feel teaching might be a future career. Abby Dellow works in Ingrid Fox's kindergarten class. She works with individual children who need extra help and during Math will work with a small group after the large group instruction. She will be attending SUNY Cortland in the fall to study Elementary Education. Lisa Thomas splits time between Mr. Bertram and Mrs. Moreland's kindergarten classrooms providing both individual and small group literacy help to students. Lisa has a list of colleges that she is considering as the place to begin her formal training in education later this fall. Sara VanCise was undecided as to her career plans when she began working in Mrs. Warren's kindergarten classroom earlier this year. Sara helps out with supervision in the cafeteria and during recess, and works with students in the classroom. These experiences have solidified her desire to make teaching her chosen career. In Mrs. Reppenhagen's kindergarten class, Kim Ostrander has returned to work with her former teacher and to help students in the cafeteria in any way that is needed. Kim's classroom responsibilities include reading stories to the students, helping with the management of the classroom and supervision of playground activities. The teachers who work with these young ladies describe them as extremely responsible, hard working, and dedicated to the development of young people. The best of luck to them in their future pursuits in the field of education. Abby Dellow, Lisa Thomas, Sara VanCise and Kim Ostrander...this weeks Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week recipients. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: John Henderson and Audrey Vestal

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Sun, 18 Dec 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on John Henderson and Audrey Vestal, both wonderful people who work as custodians at the Homer Intermediate/Junior High School. John grew up on the family dairy farm in Preble, attended Homer Schools until the end of eighth grade and graduated from Tully Schools in 1980. After graduation, he went into the family business and successfully ran the farm for twenty years before coming to work in Homer Schools in 1999. John lives in Preble with his wife Laurna, stepdaughters Liza and Katie, and twins Jack and Jenna, who turn five months old on Christmas day. Audrey was raised in DeRuyter with her five brothers and five sisters, attended DeRuyter Schools and calls DeRuyter home. She has three children who live locally...Shawn, Heather, and Rhonda, who attends DeRuyter Schools. Audrey came to Homer in 1979 and, over the course of her career, has worked in every building in the district. Audrey's colleagues shared that she takes a personal interest in seeing that the building is as conducive to learning as she can. She works countless hours each week to ensure that students and teachers have a clean, bright and attractive work environment. Staff at the Intermediate School say John works hard to make the school a welcoming place for all who come through the doors. He is quick to say hello and greet visitors with a smile. Students have commented that there must be more than one of him...because he is everywhere! Both John and Audrey point to their parents as the people responsible for the development of their solid work ethic and sincere interest in doing their very best at whatever job they are asked to do. These two people are living proof that Blue Pride is alive and well in Homer Schools. Mr. John Henderson and Ms. Audrey Vestal, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipients. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Homer Holiday Concerts

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 09 Dec 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the holiday concerts planned this month around the school district. Take a few minutes out from this busy time of the year, plan to relax, and enjoy the talents of Homer students as they perform the sounds of the season. There are plenty of opportunities to see and hear high quality holiday concerts without traveling very far. The Bonne Auditorium at Homer Intermediate/Junior High School is the sight for the Grade 3 Concert on Monday, December 12th beginning at 7:30. Mr. John Melvin leads the group as they plan to perform "A Slow Rockin' Christmas, Celebrate the Feast of Lights, and the ever popular...I'm Getting Nuttin' for Christmas." On Wednesday, December 14th, the Gymnatorium at Hartnett Elementary School in Truxton is the site for their holiday celebration. Songs will include "Jazzy Old St. Nick, Frosty the Snow Man, and Up on a House Top." The festivities get underway at 7 o'clock. The district's seventh and eighth graders will perform in the Junior High School's concert on December 20th at 7 p.m. in the Bonne Auditorium. The Junior High choir, Jazz Band and select singing groups are sure to provide an entertaining evening that will include the audience's participation in a sing-along portion of the concert. To round out the month of December, the High School Choral and Blue Notes select singing ensemble will gather on Wednesday, December 21st in the High School auditorium. The performance begins at 7:30 and is sure to provide an evening of enjoyment for all who attend. All performances are free to the public and allow for a brief respite from this busy time of the year. Come watch some of the district's stars as they perform the sounds of the season in Homer Schools holiday concerts, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Alice Heath

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 05 Dec 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the 35-year crossing guard veteran at Homer Elementary School, Alice Heath. If you know Homer, you are sure to know Alice Heath. Alice grew up in DeRuyter, moved to Homer when she was 15 and graduated from Homer High School. She has served the district in many capacities...working in the elementary school cafeteria for eight years and as a substitute cleaner for 28years. In her current position, Alice now crosses the children of students that she crossed years ago. Each one is important to her and she is quick to greet them with her cheerful smile every day. To her, each day that we are given is a wonderful one, no matter what the weather. Alice also owns the Curiosity Shop, which is located in her home on South Main Street. Over the years she has had some famous customers such as Liberace and Jackie Gleason. On one occasion, a busload of actors from NY City were traveling to Syracuse for a performance of Hello Dolly. They stopped at her shop and purchased some period costumes that she had in stock at that time. Alice has a box of books in her shop that she has let children pick from if they needed a book to read. Her motto is, "The best thing you can have is a book." Each year she donates money to the elementary school when they have their annual book fair. The money is designated for needy children who would not otherwise be able to purchase an item. Alice has traveled extensively throughout the United States. She has three children, seven grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren. In addition, she has had many other people that she has either raised or taken care of over the years. Currently she has two women living with her who can't live on their own. Helping to ensure the health and well being of students at Homer Elementary School and the community at large, Mrs. Alice Heath, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Margaret Perfetti

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 18 Nov 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on a woman who has worn many hats in her career with Homer Schools, Mrs. Margaret Perfetti. Born and raised in Cortland, Margaret came to the Homer district in 1961 after studying Social Studies and English at SUNY Albany. She began her professional career as an English teacher at Homer High where she prided herself on getting the most out of the difficult to motivate student. Margaret says that she was put on this earth to teach, and she faithfully carried out that important mission for 23 years. After serving in various leadership positions within the Homer Teachers Association, Margaret looked for an opportunity to widen her circle of influence and moved to the High School vice principal's position where she stayed for five years before finishing her public school career as the principal of the school, retiring in 1996. She currently serves as a Homer School Board of Education member, and continues to focus her efforts on providing the greatest learning opportunities for kids in this role. A lifelong learner, Margaret has a masters degree from SUNY Cortland and currently teaches English as an adjunct professor at Tompkins-Cortland Community College, where she has been active since 1988. She stays in touch with the students in her class by continuing to learn herself...in 2003 completing a registered nursing program at the school. Margaret and her husband David, who have been married for 43 years, have five grown children and eight grandchildren. Patrick, Mary, Michael, Tim and Lucia all attended Homer Schools, with Lucia being the last to graduate in 1996. Homer Schools has surely benefited from this wonderful lady's devotion to children, Mrs. Margaret Perfetti, this weeks Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Larry King

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 Nov 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the district's Director of Instruction and Evaluation, Larry King. Larry was raised in Huntington, Long Island and became familiar with Central New York while attending SUNY Cortland, where he studied early secondary social studies and played lacrosse. After graduating in 1971, Larry completed his graduate studies at Cortland State before moving back to Long Island to work in his hometown school district for two years. In 1977, he escaped the hustle and bustle of life on the island and took a teaching position at Homer Intermediate School. While there, he taught fourth, fifth and sixth grades. Since leaving the classroom full-time, Larry has served the district as Assistant Principal at Homer Junior High School, Intermediate/Jr. High Principal and his current position, where he is responsible for supporting teachers in their efforts to provide the highest quality instruction to the district's students. Larry is heavily involved in the hiring of new teachers and takes great pride in choosing folks who have demonstrated a willingness to go above and beyond for their students and who he would feel comfortable having as a teacher for his own child. Larry lives in Homer with his wife, Ruth, who is also an administrator in the school district. His son, Patrick, graduated from Homer Schools and Clarkson University...working now in the Boston area. His daughter, Emily, graduated from Homer Schools and St. Joseph's Nursing Program, receiving her bachelor's degree from Buffalo, currently is a registered nurse at Community General Hospital in Syracuse. Colleagues describe Mr. King as a caring, compassionate man who has devoted a large portion of his working life to making Homer Schools a truly special place for staff and students. A quality individual helping to shape quality young people... Mr. Larry King, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Varsity Girls Cross Country

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the Homer Girls Varsity Cross Country Team. Undefeated in dual meets during the regular season with an 8-0 record, the team clinched first place in the Onondaga High School League Freedom Division October 12th with wins over E-S-M and Chittenango. On October 19th the team won the O.H.S.L. Freedom Division Conference Championship meet at Phoenix with four girls earning first-team all-league status, and one girl second-team all league. This year's team is comprised of four seniors: Jen Davenport, Morgan Lewis, Sondra Mueller, exchange student Rosan VanThull; and four sophomores: Megan Harmon, Caitlin McMahon, Laura Niederhofer, and Heather Wilson. The dedication shown by these girls, half new to the sport and half returning veterans, is impressive. Most team members ran in excess of 300 miles during the hot summer months, earning t-shirts with the mantra "Homer Cross-Country 300 Mile Club...Miles Makes Champions." To show their support for the team's efforts, the Friends of Homer Runners hosted barbecues for parents and athletes and purchased new uniforms for the team. The Homer Athletic Boosters joined the effort and generously funded the purchase of a new digital race clock for cross-country and track meets. As the team heads into the O.H.S.L. championship and sectional meets, we wish them continued success. This year's team is a contender for a Class B sectional championship and a possible team appearance at the New York State cross-country championship. The Homer Girls Varsity Cross Country Team, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Homer Football

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the Homer Varsity Boy's Football team and Saturday's Section 3 Class B Championship game at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse. Homer takes on Cazenovia High School Saturday at 9:30 a.m. for the Section 3 crown. Both teams enter with identical 8 and 1 records and are both ranked in the top 15 in New York State. Tickets are available at the Carrier Dome box office the day of the game or at the Homer Schools athletic office located at Homer High School. The last time Homer played at the Carrier Dome for a sectional championship was 1986, when that team capped an undefeated season and completed their second straight Section 3 Championship. Homer Head Coach Gary Podsiedlik says both Homer and Cazenovia have solid, physical defensive units that bend but don't break and on the offensive side of the ball, are run oriented teams who can also hurt their opponents with a well-timed passing game. The teams are very much mirror images of each other, taking great pride in their game preparation led by capable, committed coaching staffs. Homer's team consists of 20 seniors, 16 juniors and 1 sophomore, all of whom have made a year round commitment to the program. Each player takes part in an off-season weight-training regimen designed to improve both the individuals' strength and speed. The team appreciates the community's support of the program and looks forward to a spirited contingent of fans at Saturday's game...the Homer Trojans Varsity Boys Football team...this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Sue Murphy

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Mon, 24 Oct 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on Homer Intermediate School volunteer, Sue Murphy. Sue and her husband, Bill, live in Homer and have two children attending the Intermediate School...Shannon in third grade and Michelle in sixth grade. Sue is the president of the Intermediate School Community Association, which organizes family activities that help to promote the school as the center of the community. As the president, Sue regularly addresses parents at school events to promote the SCA and to solicit their participation. Sue has been instrumental in organizing the files for various SCA events, which will enable this information to be passed along from person to person in the future. In addition, she has led the beautification efforts at the school resulting in the purchase of park benches, and picnic tables for student and staff use. Under her leadership, the SCA conducts family activities like Pumpkin Night, roller-skating, and school carnivals... providing families an opportunity to interact with school personnel in an informal setting. Each year, the SCA donates a significant number of books to teachers for use in their classroom through the Scholastic Book Fair. Teachers describe her as an extremely talented, creative person who takes her job as president of the SCA seriously. She is cheerful, positive and always excited about the chance to make a contribution to the school. The students and staff at Homer Intermediate School are the beneficiary of this volunteer's time and talent... Mrs. Sue Murphy, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Transportation Department

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Fri, 14 Oct 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This week the Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight shines on the district's award winning transportation department. Under the guidance of Transportation Supervisor, Rich Rogers, a 33 year veteran of the department, the fleet of 40 busses and 7 vans travel more than 2,300 miles per day covering the districts 176 square miles, 4 counties, and 9 townships. Safety is priority one for the department. The school's 31 bus drivers are required to possess a CDL permit and complete a comprehensive certification process that includes a thirty hour safety course, driving test, school physical, drug and alcohol testing and physical fitness test. A yearly recertification process ensures drivers are in line with the latest DOT regulations. Homer drivers have a rich tradition of success in county, regional, state, and national driving competitions. Kevin Robbins, who currently drives for the district, is a past state bus rodeo champion. At these events, drivers navigate obstacle courses, conduct pre-trip exercises, and take written exams. The NYS Department of Transportation conducts bi-annual inspections to gauge the district's efforts in bus safety. The inspections test every part of the bus to evaluate its current condition. Lights, brakes, tires, and exhaust system are just a few of the items checked and catalogued. Regularly, Homer receives a letter of recognition from the state for far exceeding it's ambitious maintenance standards. The dedicated staff of drivers, mechanics, and office personnel work together to form an efficient, safety conscience department that puts the health and safety of Homer students first. The Homer Transportation Department, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.

Blue Pride Spotlight: Mike Cole

Webmaster@homercentral.org (Webmaster) — Tue, 11 Oct 2005 22:39:49 GMT

This weeks Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the Week shines on the summer activities of Homer High School Social Studies teacher, Mike Cole. Mike spent two weeks in August in the rural Romanian village of Valea Screzii, located about two hours north of the capital city of Bucharest. The Boston based non-profit organization, United Planet, sent Mike and volunteers from Southern California, Australia and Britain to work in an orphanage teaching a class of youngsters introductory English. In addition, Mike took them on hikes, played soccer, did arts and crafts, and introduced them to American football. Mike also spent time cleaning the family operated orphanage, which had been recently damaged by a flood. Mike says that he became interested in world travel and working with people from other cultures while a student at Ithaca College. Garry Thomas, his Global Studies professor and a Peace Corp veteran, often discussed his experiences while doing work in various countries on the continent of Africa. When Mike's opportunity came, he jumped at the chance. He says it has broadened his world perspective and has made him more open minded about other cultures...messages that are transferred to his students at Homer High School. He looks forward to future visits and wants to thank the Homer community and the district's Teachers Association for their financial support in making the trip a reality. Mr. Mike Cole, this week's Homer Schools Blue Pride Spotlight of the week recipient. Tune in next time as we spotlight another person or group making Homer Schools a great place for our community's children.