PC Princi"PAL"

The Awards Keep Coming!

2012-01-25T04:34:00.000-05:00

Another honor has been added to our list of growing accomplishments! Pike Central High School has been named as one of the 51 schools in the state to be a Top Gainer. This award, presented by the Indiana Student Achievement Institute, is given to schools that have a high standard school improvement plan and are in the top category for Public Law 221 according to the Indiana Department of Education. This is based on student pass rates on the ISTEP and ECA, improvement on the pass rates and federal AYP determinations. The good things just keep coming our way! Thanks, students and staff, for all your hard work!

Logo from the Indiana Student Achievement Institute

A Special Week

2011-12-16T03:05:00.000-05:00

What a great week it has been for Pike Central! On Tuesday our Project Lead the Way students and teachers were honored by being invited to Indianapolis to meet the governor. They shared ideas, met important contacts, and earned well-deserved praises for being a Model School.

Then on Wednesday, the Swing Choir sang at the Circle Center Mall’s Indianapolis Artsgarden. After another amazing performance, members of the packed audience gave compliment after compliment to Mr. Hays, saying that they come back every year just to hear our group.

So it has been a special week for me and has reminded me of how proud I am to be the PCHS principal! Thanks, everyone!

Photo from GloSticks

New Exam Schedule

2011-12-13T03:00:00.009-05:00

To make sure that students have enough time to take final exams, we have decided to extend those periods to a full hour. Consequently, here is the schedule we will be following on those three days.

(Photo from University of Pittsburgh)

Monday December 19

Period 1 8:20 - 9:20 FINAL

Period 2 9:25 - 10:10

Period 3 10:15 - 10:55

Period 4 11:00 – 12:00 FINAL with lunch from 12:00 – 12:30

11:30 – 12:30 FINAL with lunch from 10:55 – 11:25

Period 5 12:35 - 1:20

Period 6 1:25 – 2:25 FINAL

Period 7 2:30 – 3:15

Tuesday December 20

Period 1 8:20 – 9:05

Period 2 9:10 – 9:55

Period 3 10:00 - 11:00 FINAL

Period 4 Normal

Period 5 12:35 – 1:20

Period 6 1:25 – 2:10

Period 7 - 2:15 – 3:15 FINAL

Wednesday, December 21

Period 1 8 :20 – 9:05

Period 2 9:10 – 10:10 FINAL

Period 3 10:15 – 11:00

Period 4 Normal

Period 5 12:35 – 1:35 FINAL

Period 6 1:40 – 2:25

Period 7 2:30 – 3:15

2011-11-29T04:20:00.004-05:00

It may be hard to believe, but it is almost time for first semester final exams! Instead of a special schedule this year, finals will be given in the regular class periods. Here is the schedule:

Monday, December 19: Periods 1, 4, and 6

Tuesday, December 20: Periods 3 and 7

Wednesday, December 21: Periods 2 and 5

All classes will meet every day, using the regular schedule.

Good luck to everyone! Study hard and make us proud!

Photo from: Anticipation

PLTW - A Model School!

2011-11-21T14:36:00.006-05:00

16 out of 4200.

Think of that! 16 out of 4200!

Out of 4200 Project Lead the Way schools across the nation, we were one of only 16 named as a 2010-11 Model School recognized for innovation and excellence! Congratulations to teachers Jodie Elkins and Lori Richardson for Bio-Med and Ray Niehaus and David Weathers for Engineering!

We are the only school in Indiana to be given this great honor and the only school in the Tri-State! How fantastic is that?! I am so proud of Pike Central and this well-deserved honor.

The following link will take you to the official press release naming the 16 schools. It also has a picture of some of our students at work in class: http://www.pltw.org/recent-press-releases/2010-11-model-schools-announcement

Congratulations, again, PLTW classes!

Congratulations to Mr. Mark Scott

2011-11-15T14:52:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Mr. Mark Scott, precision manufacturing instructor, for recently receiving one of five Peer Recognition Awards from Vincennes University. Besides teaching our program at PCHS, he is an associate professor at VU where he served in the technology division for 19 years, served as the director of Business and Industry for over three years, and then coordinated our program.

He was nominated and selected by his peers based on exceptional qualities, skills, and activities that go beyond his normal job responsibilities. Knowing all the work he did getting Pike Central’s precision manufacturing program started by obtaining tools and supplies, and moving and setting up machines for the lab, it does not surprise me that he received this outstanding award.

If you have not visited his area, make an appointment to take your classes through, or go yourself. It is amazing how our students can earn a year’s college credit before graduating from high school. Congratulations, Mr. Scott. We are very proud of you and glad you are also now a Charger!

Photo from InterState Studio

The Simple Truth of Service

2011-10-30T17:25:00.000-04:00

Keith Deltano

2011-10-25T20:19:00.003-04:00

We are in for another really good presentation on November 3 when Keith Deltano will be at PCHS. My understanding is that his message is very powerful and comes with excellent reviews from other high school principals and teachers. One of our staff members has actually seen him in person and says it will be great. Keith will also be providing us with a special presentation just for staff. Information on Keith can be found on http://www.dontbullyonline.com/ His website speaks for itself.

He will be meeting with the 9^th/10^th Graders from 9:10 – 10:05 and the 11^th and 12^th graders from 1:25 – 2:20. He will also be in the cafeterias during the lunch periods.

Keith has prepared something very special for the staff after school. He will be talking about the specific things that every school staff MUST know about bullying and how we can help alleviate these situations.

Mr. Mojo on CNN

2011-10-25T20:10:00.000-04:00

PLTW's Special Guest

2011-10-15T17:36:00.003-04:00

The President and CEO of PLTW, Vince Bertram, recently visited the PLTW classes and praised them for the work they are doing. In a broadcast on Channel 25 in Evansville, he stated that our science and math curriculum stands out as one of the best in the U.S. I was thrilled to have our guests with us and so proud of what our students are doing.

(The video I had posted is no longer available, but credit goes to the yearbook for this picture of Mr. Bertram with some of the students.)

Mojo Up and Take a Stand!

2011-10-15T08:04:00.001-04:00

Halloween may bring out the masks and pumpkins, but it is also going to be the day for another guest at PC. Travis Brown, also known as Mr. Mojo, which stands for Motivation, Ownership, Joy, and Outlook, will be working with students and staff about the highest level of positive attitude, positive energy, and positive results. Travis said, “MOJO UP is when you use your MOJO to influence people around you in a positive way, leading them to also make a difference!” His website is

http://nobullyingtour.com/

Let's CHAT

2011-10-15T08:00:00.006-04:00

All PCHS staff members recently received training from Susie Bishop on how to resolve bullying. Susie developed a program called Classroom Harmony Achieved Today (CHAT) that promotes peace by holding round table discussions with the students. She stresses that students want to be heard and listened to, which the CHAT provides. Several of the teachers have tried this and report great success. Thanks goes to Chris Hadley for telling me about Susie and making the arrangements to have her come to PC. If you want to learn more about this, her website is

http://eeniemeanieme.com/

Charger Brigade

2011-10-15T07:57:00.002-04:00

How proud I am of the Charger Brigade Marching band for earning a Gold Rating at the District competition! They are on their way to the next level and will be playing at Center Grove High School in Greenwood on October 15. Good luck, band! It would not surprise me at all to see you in the State competition!

Thanks to the yearbook for the photo.

Fall sports

2011-10-15T07:44:00.010-04:00

Several of the Fall sports teams have wrapped up their seasons. Congratulations to the girls and boys soccer teams for a successful year. The boys team was sectional runner-up, which shows how they improve more every year! Bring it back, Chargers! Two of our Chargers, Jacob Western and Eric McCord, won All PAC Soccer awards. Jacob was named to the Pac All-Conference team and Eric to the Honorable Mention Team. Good job, boys!

The boys cross country team has advanced to the regional competition after placing 5^th in the sectional. Cain Parker, who broke his own record twice this year, had a 4^th place finish. Congratulations, team, and good luck at your next competition!

The boys tennis team has also wrapped up its season and Chantz Parson was named to the PAC All-Conference Team as the #1 singles player and Jeffrey Estey was named to the Honorable Mention team for his great season on the #1 doubles team. Congratulations, Chantz and Jeffrey!

Thanks to InterState Studios for the team pictures.

Bring it Back at the Community Rally!

2011-09-19T03:55:00.001-04:00

I hope to see everyone at our community rally this Saturday, Sept. 24. Joe Jackson, retired NFL player for the Minnesota Vikings and New York Jets, and four time Super Bowl player, will be at Pike Central High School from 4-6 p.m. to share words of wisdom, sign autographs, etc. The band and Swing Choir will also be performing.

Our school theme this year is “Bring It Back” and we need the community to help us do just that by uniting to support the Chargers! After all, we are all Chargers!

Joe Jackson

Photo from Iowa Ministry Network

Get ready for an exciting year!

2011-08-09T20:03:00.005-04:00

Can you believe that only two posts ago I was writing about graduation and now it is time for a new school year? I am so excited about the things that we have planned and I know it's going to be a great year! Welcome back, sophomores, juniors, seniors, and staff and welcome freshmen, new students, and new staff members. Get ready for an amazing time and I'll see you Friday!

Artwork from TGTs of Karnataka

Video of EurekaFest Presentation

2011-06-19T16:36:00.002-04:00

MIT Tech TV

MIT's EurekaFest

2011-06-19T13:13:00.010-04:00

These two photos are by Chris Connors from Flickr

Photos of the presentation come from yfrog

Another round of congratulations goes to Mr. Niehaus and his PLTW team that won the MIT grant. They were one of the schools chosen to present their invention (the S.A.F.E. house) at MIT this past week. I know they represented us very well and I'm very proud of the entire group. Great job!

Here are the links to the photos that were on Flickr. You'll be able to see them much clearer.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/connors934/5844565804/in/photostream/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/connors934/5840542651/in/photostream/

Graduation

2011-06-06T16:30:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to all the new Pike Central High School alumni! Almost 150 seniors graduated last Friday night. It’s always a bit sad to say goodbye to another class, but I expect great things from the Class of 2011. Good luck to every one of you!

Artwork from moodle.fcschools.net

Cystic Fibrosis Walk

2011-06-06T16:26:00.003-04:00

It was awe-inspiring to see almost 500 PCHS students and staff members joining in the walk-run for Cystic Fibrosis last Friday. Coordinator Mrs. Beth Bohnert said, “When everyone was walking their first lap . . . seeing the mass of students and teachers heading up the road by the baseball field, all walking for a cause, left me with goosebumps. It was truly a sight I will never forget.” If you see Beth, make sure you thank her for putting in so much time to make this event possible. She did a fabulous job!

The day started with the results of the Kiss-a-Goat contest. The winner, Mrs. Alicia Tharp, who raised almost $118 for the cause, passed the honor off to Mr. Randy Meece. Mrs. Mindy Keeker-Hill brought in two of the cutest goats I have ever seen! I don’t think anyone could resist kissing them!

After a fun-filled day of volleyball, ping-pong, movies, and multiple other activities, we ended the day with an outstanding concert by Jason Sturgeon, a PC graduate. As students were leaving, I could hear them remarking about how much fun they had had. Altogether, over $1600 was raised to help fight Cystic Fibrosis, so it was definitely a successful day.

Artwork from Shellhouse.org

2011-05-26T16:08:00.006-04:00

I am so proud that we have two students who were named as STAR winners by the Evansville Courier and Press. Taylor Wornica was honored as a Gold Star winner and Audrey Sheffler received a Silver Star Award. The newspaper started the awards to recognize juniors who are heavily involved in their school and community, yet maintain a high grade point average. Taylor and Audrey are definitely deserving of this tribute. Congratulations, girls!

Gold star from "Mock-up Studios"
Silver star from "4 Seasons"

Rockin'

2011-05-23T00:21:00.004-04:00

The Swing Choir sang a song at this afternoon’s concert that sums up the entire performance from all three groups: We Will Rock You. The auditorium was “rocking” with songs from the eighth grade choir, Concert Choir, and Swing Choir. Plus, the packed house was entertained and impressed by the senior solos. I also enjoyed the accompaniment of the Jazz Band on one of the senior solos. As usual, I am enthralled at the talent we have at PC. So many students are endowed with skills and abilities that I just sit back and let it soak in. It was a wonderful way to help wrap up the end of another school year.

Photo from Steinway.org

Musical

2011-05-17T00:10:00.003-04:00

Another successful spring musical took place last weekend and I only have one word to describe it…. WOW! I was awe-struck by the talent that poured off the stage, out of the orchestra pit, and from the crews. Working together, they gave us another great production to be proud of. Thanks!

Logo from Soundbite blog

Concert Band

2011-05-17T00:09:00.003-04:00

I wish I could have attended the spring concert band competition in St. Louis. PC’s concert band received a superior rating (gold) with an average rating of 94 out of 100 points! You make us proud, Mr. Miller and band. What a great representation for our school.

Artwork from norwalkia.com

Welcome, Class of 2015

2011-02-26T10:24:00.002-05:00

I was so glad to see the large number of parents and students at our orientation for the Class of 2015! We want to make sure new freshmen understand what they are facing so they will be prepared and not frightened of high school.

A thank you goes to Mrs. Pam Julian, guidance counselor for freshmen and sophomores, for hosting the event. Her PowerPoint will soon be on the school web page at http://www.pcsc.k12.in.us/pchs/ in case you need to review it.

For parents and students who weren’t able to attend, we invite you to make contact with us and we’ll help you in whatever way we can. We look forward to meeting the Class of 2015!

Photo from Café Press

Congratulations, Welders!

2011-02-26T02:30:00.003-05:00

Anyone who has ever competed in a contest or sporting event of some type knows how hard it can be to win. For a group to come home with the top six spots, though, is amazing! That’s exactly what Pike Central High School’s welding department did at the Region 5 Skills USA Welding contest at Vincennes University.

I am enormously proud of this group and their teacher Mr. Kevin Carter. What a great demonstration of what they are learning at PCHS! Brian Schmitt, Evan Vogler, Kent Murray, and Kaleb Branam, the top four finishers, will advance to the next level on April 16 at the Walker Career Center in Indianapolis. Kyle Branam and Jordan Helton placed fifth and sixth at the contest at VU.

Congratulations to all of you and thanks for giving us another notch in our belt of accomplishments!

Photo from Rogue Community College

Christmas Band Concert

2010-12-05T19:25:00.003-05:00

“Hark! How the bells
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say,
‘Throw cares away.’
Christmas is here
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold.”

I just can’t seem to stop singing after listening to the bands at their Christmas concert tonight. I’m sure it made everyone there want to go home and either wrap or unwrap presents! How cheerful and pleasant it was to sit back and let the music envelope me. Thanks, bands and Mr. Miller, for a wonderful evening!

Photo from Funnovelty

Final Exams

2010-12-01T03:27:00.005-05:00

It is amazing that the end of the first semester is less than three weeks away! That also means that final exams are also quickly approaching. Below is the schedule for the finals. I hope that everyone studies hard and does their best on all their tests. Don’t forget that these are 10% of your grades, so it’s very important that you do well. Good luck to all!

Day 1: Tuesday, December 14
Period 1: 8:20 – 9:00
Period 2: 9:05 – 9:40
Period 3: 9:45 – 11:00 - PERIOD 3 EXAM
Period 4: 11:00 – 12:30
Period 5: 12:35 – 1:10
Period 6: 1:15 – 1:55
Period 7: 2:00 -3:15 – PERIOD 7 EXAM

Day 2: Wednesday, December 15
Period 1: 8:20 – 9:00
Period 2: 9:05 – 10:20 - PERIOD 2 EXAM
Period 3: 10:25 – 11:00
Period 4: 11:00 – 12:30
Period 5: 12:35 – 1:10
Period 6: 1:15 – 2:30 - PERIOD 6 EXAM
Period 7: 2:35 - 3:15

Day 3: Thursday, December 16
Period 1: 8:20 – 9:35 - PERIOD 1 EXAM
Period 2: 9:40 – 10:25
Period 3: 10:30 – 11:00
Period 4: 11:00 – 12:30
Period 5: 12:35 – 1:50 - PERIOD 5 EXAM
Period 4: 2:00 -3:15 - PERIOD 4 EXAM

Artwork from Quality Students

Concerts

2010-12-01T03:15:00.004-05:00

I am certainly looking forward to the upcoming concerts by the band and choirs. The events will be here just in time to put everyone in the Christmas spirit!

The band performance is this Sunday, December 5, at 6 p.m. and the choir concerts are December 12. Mr. Hays is hoping to include all three choirs (Swing Choir, Concert Choir and eighth grade choir), but may have to stagger them through the afternoon to seat all of the audience. The first concert will start at 2 p.m.

I expect the auditorium to be packed for both the band and choirs, so arrive early. It promises to be two outstanding days!

Artwork from Carswell Music Studios

Just say Panzau!

2010-11-10T18:20:00.004-05:00

“Just say Panzau!” is Pike Central’s new way to say no to alcohol and other drugs or bad decisions.

Panzau (pronounced “Pon-zo) comes from Sarah Panzau, our guest speaker on Wednesday. A big thank you goes to the Jasper Hedinger Beverage Distributing Co. for sponsoring Sarah to speak to our students and staff about how poor choices can have drastic consequences.

Interactive with the crowd, walking up and down the bleachers, bringing students out of the crowd, and not being afraid to answer personal questions were just some of the things Sarah did to make her point.

On August 23, 2003, Sarah had an alcohol level nearly four times the legal limit and decided to drive home drunk. She missed a highway exit and rolled her car four times. Without a seat belt, she was ejected through the rear window of her car and her left arm was torn from her body when she was thrown onto the roadway. She was given a zero chance of survival, but Sarah beat those odds. She is living proof of that.

Sarah’s message was about determination and perseverance and we were blessed to be able to have her with us today.

Photo by Beth Bohnert

2010-11-06T20:35:00.003-04:00

Despite the dread of the approaching winter, tonight’s play, The Gift of the Magi, put me in the mood for snow and Christmas. It reminded me of the importance of family and sacrifice for those we love and care about.

Thanks to the cast, crew, and Mr. Hays for a magnificent performance and evening. It was another example of the talent found at Pike Central High School.

Photo from Hub Pages

2010-10-20T16:10:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Mr. Ray Niehaus and his team of students for being only one of 14 groups nationwide to win a $10,000 grant from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for inventing a lightweight, portable emergency shelter.

The team started the process last spring and Mr. Niehaus, Jessica D’Esposito, team captain, and her father attended training last summer at MIT to help prepare the final proposal. Next June, the students will showcase a prototype of their invention at EurekaFest at MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) initiative also involves math teacher Mr. Ryan Bowman and science teacher Mr. Mike MacMunn. The three instructors collaborate and develop lessons that involve all aspects of their classes.

I am very proud of this group of outstanding students, Mr. Niehaus, Mr. Bowman, and Mr. MacMunn for all the work they have put into developing the shelter.

Seal from MIT website

Progress Reports

2010-10-18T16:34:00.002-04:00

Just a reminder that progress reports for the first nine weeks will be mailed on Tuesday of this week. Be looking for them in the mail.

Artwork from ccboe.net

Thanks!

2010-10-18T16:29:00.004-04:00

A special thanks goes to Winter Fiscus, Lori Richardson, Stephanie Shedd, Shirley Segert, and Daryl Kluemper for working a shift at McDonald's tonight. From 4-8 p.m., 20% of what's raised will go back to the school for student use! Thanks, McDonald's and everyone involved!

Artwork from boncherry.com

2010-09-25T22:29:00.003-04:00

What a beautiful night to sit under the lights at Central High School and listen to the band, under the direction of Mr. John Miller, earn its best score all season! Congratulations and good luck next week at District!

Artwork by Richard Neuman

Spotlight on Learning

2010-09-01T21:06:00.005-04:00

I had the privilege to accompany Mr. Ray Niehaus and three of his students to Indianapolis on Wednesday to listen to their presentation before the Indiana State Board of Education. Mr. Niehaus, Jessica D’Esposito, C.M. Brown, and Travis Wood were invited to be part of the “Spotlight on Learning” where they discussed their work on the STEM Initiative and Project Lead the Way involvement.

If you would like to see their appearance, you can link to the Indiana Department of Education website at http://media.doe.in.gov/sbe/2010-09.html and watch the streamlined video. Play Part I of the Indiana State Board of Education Meeting and Pike Central’s part starts about 1 minute and 45 seconds from the beginning. I have no doubt that you also will be proud of our students, just as I was.

Artwork from insideindianabusiness.com

Welcome back!

2010-08-06T14:59:00.005-04:00

I hope you’re as excited as I am about the new school year! It’s going to be great!

Please stop in to see the new building addition. It is wonderful.

We will be concentrating on student data this year to continue our efforts of improving student achievement. We’re excited about the changes for English and math students. We believe these alterations will positively affect their chances for successfully passing the ECA.

I also hope you’ll support our fall athletic teams. Many students and coaches have been working hard to represent our school and community.

I welcome Mr. Kyle Runyan as my assistant principal and Mr. Roger Stuckey as the new athletic director.

We also have two new teachers this year: Mrs. Dana Deffendoll in business and Mr. Ryan Bowman in math. Mr. Jarrod Gideon will also be moving from the middle school to our social studies department. Welcome to all of you.

Artwork from "Search Amelia"

2010-05-21T18:22:00.003-04:00

We have such a talented music department! That is evident from listening to the Swing Choir senior solos. All the students did such a remarkable job last Sunday and made my weekend so special.

I love hearing them sing and I’m always in awe of those who can stand in front of a packed auditorium and perform. And, of course, Mr. Hays and the others who accompanied the soloists also did a fabulous job! So my congratulations and thanks to all.

2010-05-12T23:46:00.004-04:00

What a magnificent job the band did tonight at its concert! The music selections were outstanding, and I greatly appreciate the vision Mr. Miller had for adding the visuals and information on the screen. Knowing the background to the songs added extra enjoyment to the performance. I also love the sense of humor that the entire band has! To end this post, I just want to say that I’m feelin’ much better now!

Photo from DrJays.com

Great Job, Vocational Department

2010-05-10T18:39:00.003-04:00

I want to take some time to congratulate our vocational department on the great accomplishments they have had in the past few weeks.

First, the agriculture department had its annual Ag Day, which meant a lot of live animals were available for petting and admiring. When I went out, there were so many people there that it was hard to get around! Great job, Mr. Kluemper and students.

Next, our great automotive students did an outstanding job in the Ford/AAA state automotive competition last Friday in Indianapolis. The team of Ethan Shepers and Matt Mehringer brought home a second place. It was so exciting to watch them work and I’m always amazed at what they can do. Congratulations to you and your instructor, Mr. Buddy Lee.

Finally, two teams of welding students placed first and seventh at the Patoka Valley Vocational Cooperative Welding Technology Program. Kory Voelkel and Dan Kreilein received first places in their individual events. Third place was Aaron Hopf, and fourth was Zach Wood. Devin Tegmeyer also participated. This group competed against 25 other teams, so this was a tremendous accomplishment, but it gets even better. Each member of the first place team received a $6,000 scholarship to the Ohio Technical College in Cleveland, Ohio!

The other team placed seventh overall, but had a second place individual finisher, who was Brian Schmitt. Dalton Sutt, Greg Gerber, Evan Vogler, and John Jones also competed for this team.

Aaron Hopf also won the Skills USA Welding Contest held at Walker Career Center in Indianapolis on April 17. He received a $12,000 scholarship to Ohio Technical College in Cleveland, Ohio, and free tuition for one year (valued at approximately $2,800) to attend Ivy Tech State College and/or Vincennes University. He also won $200 from Lincoln Electric to help cover his expenses for the national contest and won a Miller auto-darkening helmet and a gold medallion.

He will advance to national competition in Kansas City, Missouri, from June 21-25. He is the thirteenth state welding champion from Pike Central and will attempt to become the third national champion from our program. Congratulations, Aaron, and Mr. Kevin Carter, your instructor. Great job!

Congratulations again to all of our vocational teachers and students. I’m always proud of how well you represent Pike Central High School.

Photo from NASA.org

2010-04-09T18:53:00.004-04:00

You will want to mark your calendar for four events that will be taking place in the very near future.

The PCHS band will be performing in a festival at Castle High School on Friday, April 16, at 8:40 p.m. CST and its spring concert is May 12 at 7 p.m. in our auditorium.

May 2 at 2 p.m. will be the spring concert for the Concert Choir and on May 16, the Swing Choir will have its concert at 2 p.m. If you are a parent, relative, or friend of a senior in either of these groups, it will be one of your last chances to hear these two groups, so don't miss it!

Was I right? If you didn’t already have April 16, May 2, May 12, and May 16 highlighted on your calendar, you’re ready to do so now!

Artwork from teacherpages.nhcs.net

2010-03-16T16:02:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to the Academic Team for its first competition at the PAC Super Bowl last week. I look forward to seeing you at the April 20th contest at Vincennes Lincoln. I’m sure you’ll do well that day. I invite everyone to attend. This year’s theme is “1964 – 1980: An American Generation” which is a time period that most of us remember. The opening round of questions starts at 4:50. I hope to see you there!

Artwork from pcboe.net

2010-03-13T10:46:00.002-05:00

After seeing “The Music Man” last night, I started reminiscing about all the Pike Central plays and musicals I’ve seen in the past ten years. Every year I think, “Mr. Hays will never top this one,” but yet he does! They only seem to get better and better and last night’s performance is an example. From the overture to the curtain call, I was enthralled with the music, singing, acting, set, costumes…. every aspect of the show. I can definitely say it is one of my favorites! Congratulations Mr. Hays, cast, crew, and orchestra for a fabulous job!

Artwork from Regent University

A Great BIG Thank You

2010-02-26T19:30:00.008-05:00

To the Pike County School Board, the community, and especially my staff and students...

Artwork from Photobucket.com

2010-02-22T19:48:00.004-05:00

We have had several students advance in various competitions the past few weeks. I'd like to congratulate Jacob Lamberson (alto sax), Amy Loveless (clarinet), Chase Nordhoff (marimba), Paige Richardson (French horn), Shae Richardson (tenor sax), and the sax quartet of Jacob, Shae, Zach Riddle, and Anna Woolery for advancing to the state solo and ensemble contest on Feb. 27.

Jessey Ziebach received a silver medal in voice and Michael Cochren and ShaeBreann Richardson both received gold medals at the Indiana State School Music Association state voice and piano finals this past Saturday at Indianapolis.

The winter guard also placed second out of six guards this weekend at their first ever competition!

Cody Kendle did great at the state wrestling competition. He pinned his competitor in the first round and advanced to the final round on Saturday, placing seventh in the state. Derek Lunsford and Hunter Manning had also advanced to the semi-state.

Two new records were recently set by the swim teams. Brandon Bohnert broke the oldest PC swimming record, which was set in 1978 in the 100 Butterfly. While competing at the sectional, Tara Wornica, Bonnie Stone, Jordan Simpson, and Chelsea Clifton also set a new school record in the 200 medley relay by breaking the old one by almost one second.

Congratulations to all these students. I’m very proud of their accomplishments!

The spring musical, The Music Man, is also right around the corner, so I need to make sure I get my seats reserved for opening night! It will be a packed house and I'd love to see every Charger there! Break a leg, cast, crew, and Mr. Hays.

The PAC Super Bowl for the academic team will also be on March 9, so we wish them good luck. The competition will be at Tell City starting at 6 pm our time and I’d love to see you there.

Artwork from Photobucket

A revolution of snow

2010-02-15T15:37:00.005-05:00

Despite the cold weather we’ve been having, I still feel it is beautiful outside. The scenery reminds me of these stanzas from a poem by Billy Collins:

Snow Day

Today we woke up to a revolution of snow,
its white flag waving over everything,
the landscape vanished,
not a single mouse to punctuate the blankness,
and beyond these windows

the government buildings smothered,
schools and libraries buried, the post office lost
under the noiseless drift,
the paths of trains softly blocked,
the world fallen under this falling.

In a while I will put on some boots
and step out like someone walking in water,
and the dog will porpoise through the drifts,
and I will shake a laden branch,
sending a cold shower down on us both.

But for now I am a willing prisoner in this house,
a sympathizer with the anarchic cause of snow.
I will make a pot of tea
and listen to the plastic radio on the counter,
as glad as anyone to hear the news.

I know we’ve used all of our snow days, but in time we’ll have those all made up and will soon be listening to the cries of robins and spying the new leaves poking out on the trees. Spring is just around the corner!

Image from luminous-landscape

2-1-1

2010-02-15T15:34:00.004-05:00

Our juniors recently participated in introducing Indiana 2-1-1 to PCHS. Indiana 2-1-1 is a phone number anyone can use to get more information about health and human services, such as assistance with housing and utilities, food and meals, income, clothing and household items, counseling and much more. Others can also call to learn where to donate goods. 2-1-1 puts victims, donors and volunteers in touch with each other.

You can find more information at the following websites:
http://www.in211.org
or http://www.211.org
or http://www.airs.org
or by calling 317-921-7517

Image from IN 2-1-1

A Lesson in Diversity

2010-01-06T04:26:00.000-05:00

This video is a wonderful lesson in diversity. We can all learn something from it.

from YouTube.com

My Sundays

2009-12-13T15:52:00.005-05:00

My Sundays are usually spent kicking back and watching the Colts win another game, but today I saw our students in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. It was worth every minute and I didn’t miss the game a bit! As usual, the cast and crew did a remarkable job. Congratulations to all!

P.S. The Colts won!

Photo from neatorama.com

2009-12-11T22:15:00.006-05:00

Our guidance department has been working hard to provide juniors and seniors with the opportunities to visit various local colleges. Over 40 students toured Vincennes University earlier this year, and now we have been invited to explore Oakland City University on January 12, 2010.

Those interested in going must have good attendance and be college bound. These day trips give our future college freshmen the chance to take a closer look at the campuses before making that final decision on where to apply. I want to encourage our Chargers to take advantage of these occasions and thank the guidance counselors, Mrs. Amy Ruxer and Mrs. Pam Julian, for making these possible.

Photo from applicationforcollege.com

Christmas Concerts

2009-12-06T18:45:00.003-05:00

Music is what life sounds like. ~Eric Olson

Today’s concerts by the choirs and bands reminded me of that quote. There is nothing like spending an afternoon listening to the magnificent Christmas music of these groups. It could not have been more pleasant.

A special comment must be given to the Percussion Ensemble: Way to use your heads!

Thank you choirs and bands for making my day so fabulous.

Artwork by Dennis Cox

2009-12-05T21:25:00.002-05:00

Celebrate and treat your family and friends to a great night of entertainment! Come and watch the play at Pike Central on Friday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 13 at 2:30 p.m.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is exactly that, full of the Christmas spirit and it has a wonderful message for all. In the ten years I’ve been at Pike Central, I’ve never seen a bad play or musical. Mr. Hays does a superb job and the students are always top notch.

Don’t miss it!

Artwork from bfgb.files.wordpress.com

End-of-Course-Assessments

2009-12-02T16:41:00.003-05:00

The End-of-Course-Assessments will be given during the window of Dec. 9-18 for any student who is completing the Algebra I Second Semester class and all retesters from last spring.

These students have been preparing all semester with special emphasis during these last three weeks.

Good luck to all the students!

Image from Anderson Awards Company

All-District Honors Band

2009-11-27T10:30:00.006-05:00

Six members of Pike Central’s band and its directors were recently honored by being part of the 2009 All-District Honor Band. I was thrilled to attend the event at the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center Theatre at Vincennes University on Nov. 15.

Congratulations to Mr. John Miller, Mr. Chris Ashworth and their students. Amy Sue Loveless (Clarinet 2), ShaeBreann Richardson (Tenor Saxophone), Paige Richardson (French Horn 1), Tyler Brock (Trumpet 3), and Ashley Petry (Tuba) joined guest conductor Judith E. Grimes from Elmhurst College, as well as 75 other student musicians from 17 area high schools in a very memorable night. Emma Volz (Clarinet 3) was also a member of the group, but was unable to attend.

I’m very proud of all of you! Thank you for representing us so well!

Image from Indiana Band Masters

Fall Congratulations!

2009-11-06T02:06:00.009-05:00

It’s hard to believe that fall activities and sports are now finished, but it’s time to look back and congratulate the following students on their outstanding performances and recognitions.

First of all, the band concert last night was amazing! Mr. Miller has done a wonderful job with the band and I was proud of all the students.

Bonnie Stone was named to the All Conference PAC team for volleyball and Allen Clements for soccer.

Our girls soccer team won its first post-season victory in the history of the school by defeating Vincennes 2-0.

Krystal Greener was named "honorable mention" on the All PAC team for girls soccer.

Ali Henson and Tara Onyett were named to the All PAC team.

All PAC first team honors in cross country went to Jordan Cates, Jessica Manges, and Sarah Yager, while sophomore Kelsey Lemond was named honorable mention PAC second team.

Dalton Sutt, center on the football team, Hunter Manning, tackle and down lineman, and Courtney Davis, punter, were named Honorable Mentions for the All Conference Team.

The boys tennis team set a single season record for most wins in a season with 14 victories.

Emma Volz and Shayna Raney were also named Best Drum Majors at the South Spencer Band Invitational.

Congratulations to all the students and their accomplishments! I'm very proud of you and know that there are many more successes to look forward to!

Artwork from Madison Academy

A few notes of interest

2009-09-13T05:50:00.005-04:00

Can you believe that we’ve been in school for a month?! It has gone so fast, but has been great!

ISTEP retests start Tuesday, so students need to get plenty of rest and eat a good breakfast!

Congratulations to Alex Benefiel for winning first place in the fiddling contest in Princeton! We are going to hate to lose your talents when you graduate in May. You are definitely gifted.

Some of you are worried about having to make up the fog delay we had the other day, but put your minds at ease. We do not have to make up delays or early dismissals that are weather related.

Everyone keep on doing what’s right and we'll continue having a fantastic year!

Photo from visionmena.com

Andy Avery

2009-08-24T16:53:00.004-04:00

After a great first full week of school, staff and students in grades 6-12 met on the football field today to hear motivational speaker Andy Avery. What a great reception our Chargers gave him! Andy will be in several high school classes the rest of this week, so we'll get to see him even more!

Welcome Back!

2009-08-10T13:48:00.004-04:00

Welcome back to another year at PCHS! I'm sure you're looking forward to a great year and all the opportunities that will be offered. It promises to be exciting!

As you are planning your goals, keep this sign in mind. "Yes you can!" Yes you can be a great student! Yes you can overcome obstacles! Yes you can be a success! Yes you can have a great year!

Remain positive and do what's right. Those are words to live by.

Clip art from: wpclipart.com

Emerge Experience

2009-05-29T15:19:00.006-04:00

We had the privilege last year to work with Keith Robinson and the Emerge Experience. By the end of the year, he worked with over 250 students in small group settings. He connects with the students through nonconfrontational methods, focusing on doing what's right, leadership, and accountability.

We hope to continue this partnership through clubs, athletics, and student life. We also want to reach out to parents and the community with the Emerge Experience.

You can visit his website at http://www.emergexperience.com.

Photo courtesy of Keith's website

Parent Links

2009-01-16T05:34:00.005-05:00

Parents,
The following links are ones that I think you will find useful. I hope you’ll take the time to check them out and will find material you’ll be able to use.

The Purdue Online Writing Lab:
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/
This site offers over 200 free resources including:
* Writing and Teaching Writing
* Research
* Grammar and Mechanics
* Style Guides
* ESL (English as a Second Language)
* Job Search and Professional Writing

The Indiana Department of Education:
http://www.doe.state.in.us/

The EduHound
http://www.eduhound.com/
EduHound Site Sets are collections of topic-based online education resources.

U.S. Department of Education
http://www.ed.gov/programs/find/subject/index.html
This site promotes educational excellence for all Americans.

Test Prep Review
http://www.testprepreview.com/test_prep_directory.htm
Your source for free online practice tests

To help prepare for the SAT
http://www.majortests.com/sat/index.php
- Free study materials for students taking the SAT

America’s Career Resource Network
http://www.acrnetwork.org/Default.aspx

Indiana College Network
http://www.icn.org/
Your gateway to eLearning from Indiana colleges and universities

Career Builder
http://msn.careerbuilder.com/MSN/Category.aspx?categoryid=IV
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