BBBB 20082008- ---200920092009 MMMMEMBERS Creativity · JCSD ELP Coordinator, assists with 7 th, 8-9 ELP, Lawson, assessment, training (515) 278-0476 [email protected] Easiest

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March 2009March 2009March 2009March 2009

Creativity Or Why Half of Eight is Sometimes ThreeOr Why Half of Eight is Sometimes ThreeOr Why Half of Eight is Sometimes ThreeOr Why Half of Eight is Sometimes Three

Tuesday, March 31Tuesday, March 31Tuesday, March 31Tuesday, March 31 •••• 7:7:7:7:15151515----8:30 PM8:30 PM8:30 PM8:30 PM Johnston Middle School Library, Johnston Middle School Library, Johnston Middle School Library, Johnston Middle School Library, 6207 NW 626207 NW 626207 NW 626207 NW 62ndndndnd Avenue, Avenue, Avenue, Avenue, JohnstonJohnstonJohnstonJohnston

“Creativity involves breaking out of established patterns in order to look at things

in a different way.” Edward De Bono

Plan now to attend our final program of the 2008-2009 school year as we welcome

Richard Safris, veteran educator and Gifted Education Consultant with the Des

Moines Public School District. Mr. Safris will discuss creativity, its place in education,

and ways to promote it in your high-ability child. Join us at 7 PM for a short

business meeting just prior to our featured speaker. All are invited!

2002002002008888----2002002002009999 ELPELPELPELP SSSSTAFFTAFFTAFFTAFF

Kathy PaulKathy PaulKathy PaulKathy Paul

JCSD ELP Coordinator, assists with 7th, 8-9 ELP, Lawson,

assessment, training

(515) 278-0476 [email protected]

Easiest to contact by e-mail

Sue ClineSue ClineSue ClineSue Cline

ELP Teacher at Johnston High School / Advanced Placement

(515) 278-0449 [email protected]

E-mail or call during school hrs (except 8:00-8:45 AM

and 2:10-2:55 PM)

Mitzi Mitzi Mitzi Mitzi

HethertonHethertonHethertonHetherton

ELP Teacher at Horizon and Timber Ridge

(515) 986-1121 (Horizon) (515) 331-4379 (Timber Ridge) [email protected]

Contact by e-mail or phone

Judie HorkaJudie HorkaJudie HorkaJudie Horka

Part-Time ELP Teacher at Wallace

(515) 278-0478 (Lawson) (515) 278-6977 (Wallace) [email protected]

Contact by e-mail or phone on Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays

Nancy McGillNancy McGillNancy McGillNancy McGill

ELP Teacher at Beaver Creek and Timber Ridge

(515) 278-6228 (Beaver Creek) (515) 331-4379 (Timber Ridge) [email protected]

Call between 3 and 4 PM or e-mail for a

convenient time

2008200820082008----2009200920092009 BBBBOARD OARD OARD OARD MMMMEMBERSEMBERSEMBERSEMBERS

Our board members represent all schools within our district, as indicated below. Feel free to contact us with any questions, suggestions, or to volunteer to help with any of our activities. We would love to hear from you!

Janet Petersma, PresidentJanet Petersma, PresidentJanet Petersma, PresidentJanet Petersma, President JHS / 515-270-0561

[email protected]

Jane McDowell, TreasurerJane McDowell, TreasurerJane McDowell, TreasurerJane McDowell, Treasurer Lawson, JMS, JHS / 515-270-0012

[email protected]

Sue Nagel, SecretarySue Nagel, SecretarySue Nagel, SecretarySue Nagel, Secretary Wallace, JHS / 515-334-0999

[email protected]

Salim Chandani, Member at LargeSalim Chandani, Member at LargeSalim Chandani, Member at LargeSalim Chandani, Member at Large Horizon / 515-334-0647

[email protected]

Kari Dostalik, Member at LargeKari Dostalik, Member at LargeKari Dostalik, Member at LargeKari Dostalik, Member at Large Timber Ridge / 515-252-1892

[email protected]

Ellie Holland, Member at LargeEllie Holland, Member at LargeEllie Holland, Member at LargeEllie Holland, Member at Large Summit, JMS / 515-252-6158 [email protected]

Shanyn Kramersmeier, Member at LargeShanyn Kramersmeier, Member at LargeShanyn Kramersmeier, Member at LargeShanyn Kramersmeier, Member at Large Horizon / 515-986-0388 [email protected]

Cheryl Miller, Member at LargeCheryl Miller, Member at LargeCheryl Miller, Member at LargeCheryl Miller, Member at Large Beaver Creek, Summit / 515-999-2536

[email protected]

Greti North, Member at LargeGreti North, Member at LargeGreti North, Member at LargeGreti North, Member at Large Summit, JHS / 515-252-7354 [email protected]

Kate Safris, Member at LargeKate Safris, Member at LargeKate Safris, Member at LargeKate Safris, Member at Large Horizon / 515-986-1591

[email protected]

Connie PruittConnie PruittConnie PruittConnie Pruitt

ELP Teacher at Summit

(515) 986-0318

[email protected]

Contact by e-mail or phone

Kathy Paul, ELP CoordinatorKathy Paul, ELP CoordinatorKathy Paul, ELP CoordinatorKathy Paul, ELP Coordinator 515-278-0476

[email protected]

Jessie ToddJessie ToddJessie ToddJessie Todd Part-Time ELP Teacher

at Lawson

278-0478 (Lawson)

[email protected]

E-mail or call on Mon/Tues afternoons, Wed mornings,

or all day Thursday

WWAALLLLAACCEE EELLPP HHAAPPPPEENNIINNGGSS Submitted by JudiSubmitted by JudiSubmitted by JudiSubmitted by Judie Horka, Wallace ELP Teachere Horka, Wallace ELP Teachere Horka, Wallace ELP Teachere Horka, Wallace ELP Teacher

Wallace ELP students are busy with a Wallace ELP students are busy with a Wallace ELP students are busy with a Wallace ELP students are busy with a variety of activities. variety of activities. variety of activities. variety of activities. Here isHere isHere isHere is a snapshot a snapshot a snapshot a snapshot by grade: by grade: by grade: by grade:

First/secondFirst/secondFirst/secondFirst/second grade grade grade grade Poetry GroupPoetry GroupPoetry GroupPoetry Group is underway.

Third gradeThird gradeThird gradeThird grade Poetry Group is also hard at work. An anthology of student poems will be compiled for each group.

SecondSecondSecondSecond grade grade grade grade students are continuing work on a unit involving algebraic reasoning.

ThirdThirdThirdThird graders graders graders graders are learning about a base three number system as they work to unravel the Mystery of the MoLi Stone.

FourthFourthFourthFourth and and and and fifthfifthfifthfifth ggggradersradersradersraders are wrapping up participation in Math Olympiads with the March meet. They are also preparing for their Travel Passport presentations and Expo, at which they will share their work planning a trip to their chosen destinations.

These students have much to anticipate for the remainder of the year! Looking ahead:

FirstFirstFirstFirst grade grade grade grade students will focus on thinking skills to develop deductive, inductive, creative, and critical thinking abilities.

SecondSecondSecondSecond grade grade grade grade will follow up on their poetry work with a look at other forms of literature in the unit “Beyond Words.”

ThirdThirdThirdThird grade grade grade grade will work on solving “The Teddy Bear Mystery.”

Fourth and fifthFourth and fifthFourth and fifthFourth and fifth grade grade grade grade students will soon participate in the Stock Market Game.

A small group of fifth gradefifth gradefifth gradefifth grade students will study the U. S. Bill of Rights and some cases that had an impact on the rights of Iowans. This study of rights will culminate with a trip to the Iowa State Historical Museum’s History Through the Arts program “Inalienable Rights.” The performance will tell the story of three landmark Iowa civil rights court cases.

LLAAWWSSOONN EELLPP NNEEWWSS Submitted by Jessie Todd, Lawson ELP TeacherSubmitted by Jessie Todd, Lawson ELP TeacherSubmitted by Jessie Todd, Lawson ELP TeacherSubmitted by Jessie Todd, Lawson ELP Teacher

Greetings! Here is a quick overview of the units that we are working on at Lawson!Greetings! Here is a quick overview of the units that we are working on at Lawson!Greetings! Here is a quick overview of the units that we are working on at Lawson!Greetings! Here is a quick overview of the units that we are working on at Lawson!

KindergartenKindergartenKindergartenKindergarten students have just started building equations and showing off their number sense in math. In reading, they are showing their creative thinking skills as they work with letters of the alphabet.

First gradeFirst gradeFirst gradeFirst grade readers have been working on “Offbeat Adventures with the Alphabet.” We have been rotating through different learning stations, each dealing with a different alphabet challenge. Students have been working hard solving patterns and using their creative thinking skills. First grade math students have been working on some basic algebra as we learn about equations and missing addends. We have also been learning about “patterning”: predicting what shape/number would come later in a pattern.

Second gradeSecond gradeSecond gradeSecond grade readers have been working on “Beyond Words,” a literature unit designed to engage students in reading, writing, and interpretation skills. Stop by the ELP room to read some of the poetry we have created! Second grade math students are also working on algebra. Recently, we discussed negative numbers, and even practiced adding and subtracting using negative numbers.

ThirThirThirThird graded graded graded grade readers have been working hard on a literature circle. We are reading the book Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt. Each week, a different student is assigned a job to complete and share with the group. The students lead the discussions and enjoy taking their turn as discussion directors! Third grade math students are working on multiplication and division. We have been talking about how important it is to be accurate and quick when solving basic math facts, as these basic facts are the building blocks of more difficult mathematics. Ask your students to share some of their new strategies for quick multiplication!

Fourth gradeFourth gradeFourth gradeFourth grade readers have been working hard on an Envision Project entitled Environmental Declaration. Each student has selected a local environmental issue to research and to present possible solutions for fixing their particular issue. We will present our final projects on Wednesday, April 29.

Fifth gradeFifth gradeFifth gradeFifth grade readers are also working hard on an Envision Project. Their project is entitled Travel Passport. Each student has selected a location to which they will plan an imaginary trip with a fictitious $2,000 budget. We will present our final projects on Monday, April 27.

Both fourth and fifth gradefourth and fifth gradefourth and fifth gradefourth and fifth grade math students are finishing up their Math Olympiads competitions. With only one test left, students are working hard to finish strong!

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NNEEWWSS FFRROOMM BBEEAAVVEERR CCRREEEEKK && TT IIMMBBEERR RR IIDDGGEE Submitted by Nancy McGill, Beaver CreekSubmitted by Nancy McGill, Beaver CreekSubmitted by Nancy McGill, Beaver CreekSubmitted by Nancy McGill, Beaver Creek & & & & Timber Ridge ELP TeacherTimber Ridge ELP TeacherTimber Ridge ELP TeacherTimber Ridge ELP Teacher

Where does the time go? I am amazed that it is alWhere does the time go? I am amazed that it is alWhere does the time go? I am amazed that it is alWhere does the time go? I am amazed that it is already Marchready Marchready Marchready March,,,, and we are looking at the home stretch for and we are looking at the home stretch for and we are looking at the home stretch for and we are looking at the home stretch for the school year. the school year. the school year. the school year. SSSSince our last newsletter updateince our last newsletter updateince our last newsletter updateince our last newsletter update, w, w, w, we have been busy, e have been busy, e have been busy, e have been busy, however, as we havehowever, as we havehowever, as we havehowever, as we have challenged challenged challenged challenged ourselves to learn a variety of material. ourselves to learn a variety of material. ourselves to learn a variety of material. ourselves to learn a variety of material.

The Beaver Creek fifth gradersfifth gradersfifth gradersfifth graders continue to study grammar, classic vocabulary, and the structure of paragraphs. We also have been exploring the origins of words, phrases, sayings, and proverbs. In addition, we have been listening to both D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths and The Graveyard by Neil Gaiman. Both are fascinating stories but for very different reasons.

Several Beaver Creek fourth and fifth gradersfourth and fifth gradersfourth and fifth gradersfourth and fifth graders are anxiously awaiting results from the Letters About Literature contest. We know that Iowa was well represented by children statewide and continue to hope some of us did well enough to be honored with recognition. It is important to remember that every fourth or fifth grader who entered this contest can try again next year. Writing a letter to an author is a great way to respond to a great book!

Beaver Creek third gradersthird gradersthird gradersthird graders have progressed in their language arts study to the all-important sentence, the basis for all writing. We are learning and practicing the important concepts needed to write good sentences. We are also practicing four-level analysis of grammar and becoming adept at identifying the parts of speech, parts of a sentence, prepositional phrases, and clauses. What powerful learning!

Timber Ridge third gradersthird gradersthird gradersthird graders are involved in several hands on measuring activities in mathematics. We have had some fun experiences with this important topic. We recently finished reading and writing about the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This topic was new to many of us, and we found it quite interesting.

Beaver Creek second graderssecond graderssecond graderssecond graders are enjoying their investigation of figurative language. We have looked at similes, metaphors, personification, and analogies as ways in which authors create great writing. We have tried our hand at analogies, poetry, and persuasive paragraphs. We have enjoyed numerous examples of wonderful picture books and poetry books. One of our favorites was Dogku by Andrew Clements.

Timber Ridge second graderssecond graderssecond graderssecond graders are practicing their convergent and divergent thinking skills. We haven’t decided if it is harder to think about finding one (and ONLY one!) right answer or to think of many possible solutions. Both can be amazingly challenging!

First gradersFirst gradersFirst gradersFirst graders at Beaver Creek are also learning about various kinds of thinking and have found them to be quite challenging as well. In what way is a door like friendship? In what way is it different? These are interesting questions to consider.

First gradersFirst gradersFirst gradersFirst graders at Timber Ridge are investigating ants. At this time, we have only thought about the word “ant,” especially as it is found in bigger words like fantantantantasy, plantantantant, pleasantantantant, and so on. Eventually we hope to observe real ants and research a bit about their structure and habits.

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After reading the book, Growing Money: A Complete Investing Guide for Kids, fifthfifthfifthfifth gradegradegradegrade students are currently in the thick of The Stock Market Game online. The game, which usually costs $25 per team, is being offered free this year, allowing each student to invest their own $100,000 of fun money without having to negotiate a consensus with three other peers. Just two weeks into the game, Meredith Campidilli of Horizon is leading the regionregionregionregion with $105, 242 in total equity. Horizon’s Alex Monen and Caroline Aldrich, along with Nate Tallman and Aubrey Soderlund from Timber Ridge, are well on their way to making money on their investments. The other 24 students are working hard at making sound choices.

All students are learning from their decisions and are changing their strategies as needed. A big thank you to Mr. Tim Hanstad from Edward Jones, who is in his fifth year of guiding these students in their knowledge of the stock market.

Both fofofofouuuurth and fifthrth and fifthrth and fifthrth and fifth grade grade grade grade students are beginning work on long-term research projects that will take them through the end of the school year. The fourth graders at Horizon and Timber Ridge have chosen to participate in the Backyard Getaway, which engages students in

continued on next page

Above: Horizon Fourth grade authors are climbing high! Bottom row: Tyler Gurney, Cole Kramersmeier, Sean Meyer, Luke Safris

Top row: Sara Siebrecht, Jillian Gabby, Afshan Chandani

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planning a dream backyard given one acre of land. Students will research and make decisions in order to create and develop five specific areas within their acre. The fifth graders are exploring where their education can lead them in life. After taking a career interest inventory, students choose a potential career, research it, and investigate the training needed to achieve this major goal. They will decide on a college and estimate the expenses needed to get through the college years.

Timber Ridge fourthfourthfourthfourth graders graders graders graders have been honing their grammar and persuasive writing skills for the Scholastic contest, “What is the Best Invention Ever?” Elizabeth Boeschen thinks time-keeping devices top the chart of best inventions; Brooke Thacker would argue that the satellite is the most useful; and Evan Kramme stands behind the invention of refrigeration. Mrs. Hetherton would have submitted her vote for indoor plumbing, but alas, this was a contest for students only! Horizon fourthfourthfourthfourth graders graders graders graders have just completed their book, T is for Torch, an Olympic Alphabet Book! Mrs. Shanyn Kramersmeier is finalizing the mock-up copy to send to Scholastic for submission in the Kids Are Authors Competition. A copy of this book will be posted on the Friends of Johnston ELP website soon! (See a picture of these young authors on page 3.) In other classes:

• ThirdThirdThirdThird graders graders graders graders are studying folk literature from four cultures and completing comparison/contrast analysis on each.

• SecondSecondSecondSecond graders graders graders graders are learning the Latin influence on many of the stems words in our language.

• Horizon’s Grace Campidilli, Jens Rasmussen, and Parul Srivastava are leading the pack in “problem solving with money” in second grade ELP math class.

• One group of fOne group of fOne group of fOne group of first gradersirst gradersirst gradersirst graders at Horizon is studying various versions of Cinderella, while another group is exploring the mystery genre.

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With your $35 membership fee, Friends of Johnston ELP members are also members of the Iowa Talented and Gifted Association. ITAG members are now able to receive Parenting for High Potential, a magazine published by the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), for an annual fee of $10. NAGC describes this quarterly magazine as “designed for parents who want to make a difference in their children's lives, who want to develop their children's gifts and talents, and who want to help them develop their potential to the fullest.” Contact the Iowa Talented and Gifted Association office for details at (515) 225-2323.

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Kathy Paul has been selected to represent the state of Iowa on the National Mock Trial Advisory Board. She will serve on the committee to supervise the curriculum for the national mock trial web site practicum, which is being launched this year. The goals of the board include improving mock trial skills and the visibility of the mock trial program. She will be a part of the group that reviews and revises the curriculum, and her students at Johnston will have the opportunity to preview the materials.

For information about Mock Trial in JCSD, contact Kathy Paul or Sue Cline (see page 1 for contact information).

LeftLeftLeftLeft: Timber Ridge fifth grader Sami Schaer leads her group in Story With Holes logic questions. Jacob Newcomb and Adam Dostalik are guessing. Center:Center:Center:Center: Timber Ridge students Logan Shaver, Devin VanderWerff, Daniel Timmons, Nate Tallman, and Adam Friesth enjoy a Game Day break from Math Olympiads.

Right:Right:Right:Right: Timber Ridge fifth grader Nate Tallman gives the thumbs up on his stock choices; Jacob Smith is not so happy with his results!

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EELLPP NNEEWWSS && UUPPDDAATTEESS Submitted by Kathy Paul, ELP Teacher & JCSD ELP CoordinatorSubmitted by Kathy Paul, ELP Teacher & JCSD ELP CoordinatorSubmitted by Kathy Paul, ELP Teacher & JCSD ELP CoordinatorSubmitted by Kathy Paul, ELP Teacher & JCSD ELP Coordinator

Parent Survey:Parent Survey:Parent Survey:Parent Survey: Evaluating Gifted Services Evaluating Gifted Services Evaluating Gifted Services Evaluating Gifted Services

The Johnston Community School District is evaluating the programming and services provided for identified Extended Learning students. Would you please take time to complete this online survey, based on your experiences during this school year? Students will receive a separate form to complete. We value your feedback! THANK YOU for your efforts to make our programming for high ability students a success and for your help with this evaluation. Please complete this survey before April 10.

Access the survey at: http://tp2.aea11.k12.ia.us/017/JohnstonELP_parents2009.tp4

Identification for Extended Learning ProgrammingIdentification for Extended Learning ProgrammingIdentification for Extended Learning ProgrammingIdentification for Extended Learning Programming

We are working on the review process for ELP identification. Each spring, students are reviewed, and letters are sent to those who are placed on a level of service. Usually sent in May, the letter will explain options for your child, including special programming available such as an extension in the classroom, an advanced reading class, or a pull-out class on math problem-solving. These options depend upon levels of service identified, so the letters are specific for each child. The ELP staff provides direct service to a few children, while the classroom teacher works with many children.

As a parent, if you are interested in providing input in characteristics you have observed, you may request a form from the ELP staff or go directly to the web link at http://tp2.aea11.k12.ia.us/017/JohnstonELP_Parent_inventory.tp4 . If your child has been nominated through test scores or teachers, this will automatically occur.

The following explains the levels of service and the identification process. Our identification is based upon multiple criteria. A committee of ELP and classroom teachers reviews the data. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your building ELP teacher or Kathy Paul, ELP Coordinator, at the middle school at 278-0476.

LEVELS OF SERVICE:LEVELS OF SERVICE:LEVELS OF SERVICE:LEVELS OF SERVICE: • GENERAL ENRICHMENTGENERAL ENRICHMENTGENERAL ENRICHMENTGENERAL ENRICHMENT: This level of service provides the classroom teacher with

support, so that enrichment is available to enable learners in the regular classroom. Teachers look for potential needs.

• STRENGTH AREA:STRENGTH AREA:STRENGTH AREA:STRENGTH AREA: This service is for students who excel in one or more academic areas. Direct service through the ELP teacher is offered on an invitational basis, depending upon needs and available time. Flexible groups are planned in conjunction with regular classroom topics and vary in length, content, and frequency. The ELP teacher supports the regular classroom teacher with extensions, enrichments, or teaching strategies.

• EXTENDED STUDIES:EXTENDED STUDIES:EXTENDED STUDIES:EXTENDED STUDIES: Students at this level of service require a differentiated curriculum to progress academically. A personalized educational plan is developed to monitor needs. In addition to the services offered at the other levels, direct service includes an option for specific extended studies classes to meet program goals in research, higher level thinking skills, emotional and social behaviors, and self-directed learning.

PROCESS FOR IDEPROCESS FOR IDEPROCESS FOR IDEPROCESS FOR IDENTIFICATION:NTIFICATION:NTIFICATION:NTIFICATION: Review of multiple criteria by ELP staff and coordinator. Students serviced depending upon need demonstrated and options available. 1. 1. 1. 1. Classroom Classroom Classroom Classroom teachers Extendedteachers Extendedteachers Extendedteachers Extended Learning Observation Inventory Learning Observation Inventory Learning Observation Inventory Learning Observation Inventory: : : : Teachers mark characteristics of gifted learners and make comments and nominate students. 2. 2. 2. 2. Teacher recommendation based on products, processes, motivation, and gradesTeacher recommendation based on products, processes, motivation, and gradesTeacher recommendation based on products, processes, motivation, and gradesTeacher recommendation based on products, processes, motivation, and grades: : : : Multiple examples of high quality products, initiative to complete

extensions, and thought process are used. 3. 3. 3. 3. ParenParenParenParent Information for ELPt Information for ELPt Information for ELPt Information for ELP: : : : Characteristics which show up in the home provide valuable insight. Forms are sent home with nominated students,

however, any parent may request a form for their child. 4. 4. 4. 4. ELP staff recommendationsELP staff recommendationsELP staff recommendationsELP staff recommendations: : : : Observed characteristics, performances, and products. 5. 5. 5. 5. ITBS Iowa normsITBS Iowa normsITBS Iowa normsITBS Iowa norms: : : : Serves as an indicator of student needs. State guidelines suggest top 5% for Personalized Educational Plan, which is generally 97-99% on ITBS. 6. 6. 6. 6. MIALT MIALT MIALT MIALT ---- Mid Mid Mid Mid----Iowa Achievement Level TestsIowa Achievement Level TestsIowa Achievement Level TestsIowa Achievement Level Tests: : : : Scores are specific to Johnston standards and benchmarks. While many students score in the Hi range,

reading and math scores, which are one to two standard deviations above the norm, are generally a strong indicator of high ability in that area. 7. 7. 7. 7. MiscelMiscelMiscelMiscellaneous tests/ records from previous schoolslaneous tests/ records from previous schoolslaneous tests/ records from previous schoolslaneous tests/ records from previous schools: : : : Other available data will be taken into consideration, such as out-of-level tests or data from

previous schools.

New ELP Resources Benefit Students

Thanks to the generosity of donations by our parents, the ELP staff has the flexibility to purchase items throughout the year that are needed to supplement the curriculum. We continue to increase in numbers, so the extra funding provides opportunity to meet more needs. Here are some ways the money has been used.

At the elementary level, fifth graders from all buildings took part in a workshop with author Eileen Boggess. Improvement and motivation in writing increased after this session. Subscriptions to Science World magazine for third through fifth grades and Super Science for primary grades have been widely used by classroom teachers across the district. The Envision Program, which has curriculum for grade five, is now available across the district. All primary level classrooms now have some books to use with programming by the ELP teacher, and an entire set of books is now available to use with students. Learning centers and fun “fish tanks” to hold them are now in place at Lawson and Timber Ridge. Books for teachers on differentiation, learning centers, and resources by noted author Bertie Kingore were purchased for use at Horizon, Timber Ridge, and Lawson. At Beaver Creek, a set of books for a small group study was purchased. At Summit, the ELP bookshelves received additions for student reading and language arts, and learning center kits were added. In addition, poetry resource books are now available for students. The middle school added five more books on differentiation as well as some parent resource books. Updated supplies and visual aids were purchased for the Mock Trial teams. Upcoming high school purchases include resource books for teachers and students as well as guides for Advanced Placement tests.

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MathCounts TeamMathCounts TeamMathCounts TeamMathCounts Team CCCCompetitionompetitionompetitionompetition

Nine members of the Summit Math Club competed at Drake University on February 25 in the MathCounts regional competition, sponsored by The Iowa Engineering Foundation and the Iowa Engineering Society. Sixth grade students Jack Dolde and Ethan Niu and seventh grade students Pratysuha Bujimalla, Karen Chen, Abby Dockum, Smith Kraai, Grace Ma, Vaibhav Srikaran, and Margaret Tian competed against 190 other middle school students from central Iowa. The Summit team placed seventh out of 23 teams. Qualifying for state was Margaret Tian who scored 11th in the individual competition. The team was part of more than 30 students in Summit’s Math Club. The club has been meeting after school on Mondays since November.

Students Learn about Forensic ScienceStudents Learn about Forensic ScienceStudents Learn about Forensic ScienceStudents Learn about Forensic Science

Fibers are all around us. Crimes are often solved because of fibers left at the scene. Students in the ELP Forensic Science Class were given samples of various types of fibers. They compared the fibers through ProScopes, high-resolution handheld digital microscopes, to solve a fictitious case. Students also learned how fibers burn differently because of what they are made of, such as cotton, rayon, or polyester. They observed how the fibers burned, what odors were

associated with the burned fiber, and what residue was left after the fiber was removed from the flame. With specific information students were able to solve several fictitious crimes.

SSSSummit ummit ummit ummit SSSStudents tudents tudents tudents PPPPrepare for repare for repare for repare for HHHHistory istory istory istory DDDDayayayay

History Day 2009 District competition will take place on April 2 at the State Historical Building in Des Moines. Twenty-nine sixth grade students and 29 seventh grade students will be competing in the event. This year’s theme is “The Individual in History: Actions and Legacies”. Sixth grade students have been meeting every other day in February with Mrs. Pruitt to learn researching skills such as developing a thesis statement, finding sources, and writing annotated bibliographies. Seventh grade students have been working for several weeks in the ELP Research I and II classes. Some “individuals in history” being studied include Kate Shelley, Gandhi, Anita Snook, and John Wilkes Booth.

Eighth Eighth Eighth Eighth Graders Plan for FutureGraders Plan for FutureGraders Plan for FutureGraders Plan for Future

All identified eighth graders had the option of signing up for the six-week class, Planning for High School and College. Approximately 30 students will be taking the class this April/ May. Information about high school courses and opportunities will be highlighted. Students will learn

about the college application process as well as the ACT and SAT exam. The need for a four-year plan will be emphasized.

District History Day District History Day District History Day District History Day Fast ApproachingFast ApproachingFast ApproachingFast Approaching

Students in grades 6-12 are putting the final touches on entries for District History Day at the State Historical Building of Iowa. Due to the large number of registrants, District History Day will be held on two days this year. The Senior Division will be on April 1, with registration at 8:15 AM and judging at 9:00 AM, and the Junior Division will be held on April 2, with registration starting at 7:45 AM and judging at 8:30 AM.

Approximately 70 Johnston students will participate this year. In addition to on-site judging of performances, exhibits, and documentaries, students will have papers and websites on display. With over 180 entries from area schools, the event is always well attended by students and parents. Johnston residents help with judging, and the Friends of JELP will run a concession stand on both April 1 and 2.

Top photo: Members of the Summit MathCounts team, back row: Karen Chen, Pratyusha Bbujimalla, Abby Dockum, Smith Kraai, and Coach Mrs. Pruitt. Front row: Margaret Tian, Grace Ma, Vaibhav Srikaran, Ethan Niu, and Jack Dolde. Bottom photo: “CSI” students Callie Coulter, Alex Clark, and Ryan Rubin are Crime Scene Investigators as they burn fibers to solve a fictitious case in ELP CSI class.

JMS students prepare for District History Day: Left: Courtney Norelius, Hannah Soyer, and Bailey Eppard; Center: Jiahui Huang and Zea Zhu; Right: Grant McDonald, Ian Dunshee, and Chase Wallace

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Top row (left): Team TestosteroneTeam TestosteroneTeam TestosteroneTeam Testosterone: John Hall, Ben Stensrud, Sam Parker, Joe Payne, Ethan Nutter, Kevin Shi, Petros Vardaxis; Top row (right): Team AstrobaseTeam AstrobaseTeam AstrobaseTeam Astrobase----GoGoGoGo: Hannah Emmerson, Eric Everett, Adam Helgeson, Ryan Jones, Zac Stevens, Kevin Hu, Neal Herink, William McDowell; Bottom row (left): Team WeLoveDylanTeam WeLoveDylanTeam WeLoveDylanTeam WeLoveDylan: Brittany Deal, Katie Bonney, Azra Beganovic, Dylan Cue, Amra Beganovic, Alex Garland, Jenny Ajluni, Gabbi Angeloni; Bottom row (right): Group photo of district participants

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Annual JETS CompetitionAnnual JETS CompetitionAnnual JETS CompetitionAnnual JETS Competition

The annual JETS competition took place on Thursday, March 6, in the JHS career room. This engineering aptitude exam includes 80 multiple choice questions and four free-response questions, all based around a theme. This year's theme was Amusement Parks. Students were asked to consider issues involving safety, function, and power sources.

JV JETS player Laura Cross said that the free response part of the exam seemed significantly easier than it was last year. Varsity player William McDowell said that the multiple choice section was more difficult than the previous year, but agreed the free- response portion was more understandable. Since JETS is an aptitude test, students are required to use critical and creative problem-solving skills to work through the scenarios. It is a very challenging experience and gives students an opportunity to see what types of work engineers do in the real world. Results will be available next month.

The students involved this year include: • Varsity Varsity Varsity Varsity JETS TJETS TJETS TJETS Teameameameam: Kevin Shi, Allyson Mayer, Frank Niu, John Hall, William McDowell, Fred Shen, and Ryan Francois • Junior Varsity Junior Varsity Junior Varsity Junior Varsity JETS TJETS TJETS TJETS Teameameameam: Laura Cross, Tanner Gardiner, Kyle Soyer, Ben Jacobsen, Kevin Han, Kevin Hu, and Matt Knoedel

DDDDistrict istrict istrict istrict Academic Decathlon Academic Decathlon Academic Decathlon Academic Decathlon CompetitionCompetitionCompetitionCompetition

The JHS Academic Decathlon teams performed admirably at District Competition on Monday and Tuesday, February 1 and 2. These 24 students earned a total of 49 individual ribbons and third place in the SuperQuiz group test. An individual student, Kevin Shi, placed second overall in the contest. This year's theme was Latin America, so each student completed exams over Latin American history, music, art, economics and literature, evolutionary biology and mathematics, and performed a speech and an interview.

Individuals earning awards included: • Fred Shen: 1st overall among Alternates, including 1st in Superquiz,

Math, Music, and Social Science, 2nd in Economics.

Varsity Varsity Varsity Varsity CCCCategoryategoryategoryategory • Jenny Ajluni: 3rd in Superquiz, 1st in Speech. • Katie Bonney: 1st in Social Science, 1st in Economics, 1st in Art,

1st in Music, 2nd in Superquiz • Eric Everett: 3rd in Social Science, 2nd in Art • John Hall: 2nd in Math, 2nd in Music, 1st in Interview

Scholastic Scholastic Scholastic Scholastic CCCCategoryategoryategoryategory • Gabbi Angeloni: 2nd in Social Science, 1st in Music • Brittany Deal: 3rd in Superquiz • Alex Garland: 1st in Art, 1st in Superquiz, 3rd in Interview • Adam Helgeson: 1st in Social Science, 3rd in Superquiz • Neal Herink: 2nd in Math, 2nd in Superquiz

• Ryan Jones: 3rd in Social Science, 1st in Interview • Ethan Nutter: 3rd in Social Science, 2nd in Economics, 2nd in

Superquiz, 2nd in Speech

Honors Honors Honors Honors CCCCategoryategoryategoryategory • Amra Beganovic: 3rd in Social Science, 3rd in Language/Literature,

3rd in Interview, 3rd in Speech • Azra Beganovic: 2nd in Interview, 3rd in Speech • Dylan Cue: 2nd in Music • William McDowell: 3rd in Math • Joe Payne: 1st in Math, 3rd in Interview • Kevin Shi: 1st in Art, 2nd in Math, 1st in Music, 2nd in Superquiz

Also competing were Varsity students Zac Stevens and Sam Parker, Scholastic student Petros Vardaxis, and Honor students Kevin Hu, Ben Stensrud, and Hannah Emmerson. An "all-star" team of our three highest Varsity, Scholastic, and Honors students competed at State Academic

Decathlon on March 6-7 in Mt. Vernon, Iowa. PPPPAAAAGGGGEEEE 7777

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StateStateStateState Academic Decathlon Academic Decathlon Academic Decathlon Academic Decathlon CompetitionCompetitionCompetitionCompetition

A team of Johnston High School students competed at the State Academic Decathlon on March 6-7 in Mt. Vernon, Iowa. Results from this exciting weekend will be shared in our May newsletter. The following piece was written by Ac Dec student, Dylan Cue, for the State Ac Dec newspaper. Dylan and the other team members had a great deal of fun with this article!

Johnston State Academic Decathlon, By Dylan Cue

They have been called the math-ocalypse. They are known as the fiery heart of music, the passionate brush of art. They are the rabbis of reading and the sultans of science. After training for upwards of three months in basements and living rooms across suburbia, they have come to the summit of Mt. Vernon to prove themselves in the ultimate trial-by-fire, state Academic Decathlon.

In the Honors squad, Kevin Shi brings his unparalleled ability to actually prepare for the competition, as well as a mind-bending sense of sarcasm to the testing arena. Amra Beganovic, the beast from the Eastern-Europe, sends her apologies for the crushing loss all opposition will face in the lang and lit exam. The devilishly handsome Dylan Cue rounds out the Honors team, bringing wit and charm to offset his companions' brutality. After appearing at State in the Scholastic category in the past, Dylan now must face the terror of the Honors competitors.

Team Scholastic is spearheaded by Adam Helgeson, a natural-born overlord and someday Ruler of the Earth, who will awe his judges in the interview competition. Gabbi Angeloni, the silent menace, waits in the shadows for an unanswered art question to come by. Finally, Alex "NASCAR" Garland, plans to bust through the literature and superquiz in record time.

The fine men and women of the Varsity team are the secret weapon, the hand in the shadows. Katie Bonney, lurking behind a book, brings swift justice to whatever is put in front of her, as long as a scantron form is available. No subject area is safe from her uncanny talent for standardized testing. Jenny Ajluni, beast #2 from the Middle-East, relies on a fiery passion for being right, and will defy other team members to outperform her speech score. Finally, Eric Everett, who has secretly been honing his knowledge of math, has come to derive, divide and integrate for the win.

The cohorts available in case of injury include the #3 beast from the Eastern-Europe, Azra Beganovic in the Honors category. Neal Herink, the Scholastic representative, is competing as an alternate due to an unfortunate calculator accident. In Varsity, John Hall tested well, but was distracted by something shiny.

Top photo: State Ac Dec participants: Front row: Adam Helgeson, Amra Begaonvic, Gabbi Angeloni, and John Hall. Back row; Jenny Ajluni, Azra Beganovic, Alex Garland, Neal Herink , Dylan Cue, Eric Everett, Katie Bonney, and Kevin Shi. Neal is holding the head of Elmo – an Elmo piñata was last year's mascot. Center photo: Official team photo for State Academic Decathlon; Bottom photo: Team members preparing for competition.

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