District Newsletter
Pride 10/24/08
Willard R-II Central Office
Willard Orchard Hills Elementary will be the setting for Kindergarten to 4th Grade students in the fall of 2009. This building will have many attributes towards teaching and learning for students. The large commons area includes a stage and will provide an excellent opportunity for group instruction or student body assembly without the need to reschedule physical education classes. The Library/Media Center is easily accessed from the commons area along with the Computer lab. The design, configurations and layouts address the school district students and programs. Students at this age are becoming more independent and comfortable with a variety of learning strategies. They have transitioned from instruction in one classroom with one teacher, to following schedules and adapting to different learning environments throughout the building and outdoors. The physical organization for the school provides easy navigation that builds confidence without sacrificing safety and security. Students at Orchard Hills will easily identify the classroom areas as well as the school office, counseling and nurse assistance. Regardless of the schools configuration, children need a healthful and stimulating environment in which to learn. This elementary school will be comfortable visually, acoustically and thermally. Environment concerns to include excellent indoor air quality, lighting and energy efficiency. The aesthetics and physical appearance of this school building should not be overlooked. A school that is attractive and is consistent with the design and context of the neighborhood, builds a sense of pride and ownership among students, teachers and the community.
Today we are "quietly" celebrating the last drilling for the 96 ground source wells at Willard Orchard Hills Elementary. These individual boars are approximately 365 feet of encased wells that will provide a natural geothermal cooling process for the heat and air system at the school. With the continued sound of drilling the past few months, the neighbors and construction workers are all in celebration.
Dr. Janell Royal
Assistant Superintendent
Director of Operations
The tigers are once again showing southwest Missouri what Willard is all about....class, school pride, sportsmanship, and WINNING! The volleytigers have ended their regular season on a 5 match winning streak along with the championship of the Licking Tournament. This hot streak has landed them the #1 seed in the Class 4, District 12 tournament next week in Joplin. The girls will play the 8th seeded Joplin Eagles on Tuesday at 4:00pm. Semifinals and Finals will be held on Thursday at Joplin High School starting at 5:00. Good luck ladies!
After beating Bolivar, Branson, and Neosho, the soccer tigers are on a roll of their own. They will finish their regular season next week as they host Greenwood on Monday, and travel to Hillcrest on Thursday. The boy's received the #3 seed in their district tournament which will be held here at Willard the week of Nov. 3-7. I will have more details next week.
A big and hearty congratulations goes out to the Willard Marching Band. For 3-consecutive years the band has won their division and the finals competition at the Missouri State University Ozarko Marching Festival. They were recognized as the Outstanding Color Guard, Outstanding Percussion, Outstanding Music, Outstanding Visual Program, Outstanding Drum Majors, Outstanding Pit Crew and also won the Dinner Bell Award for best cooks. In Finals they again won the Outstanding Color Guard, Percussion, Music, and Visual Program Awards. In both prelims and finals the Willard Band had the highest combined score of any of the 26 bands in competition from Illinois, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri. The Cutting Edge will have this weekend off before traveling to Columbia, MO next Saturday.
Good luck to the Cross Country Tigers as they will run in the district meet tomorrow at Nixa. The top 30 boys and the top 30 girls will advance to the sectional meet next week.
The football tigers are still in contention for the playoffs as they travel to Marshfield tonight for the 2nd round of district play. Game time is 7:00pm. If the boys can pull out a victory then next week's showdown with Hillcrest on Thursday will determine who will move on to the state playoffs!
The choir will be having my favorite fundraiser this Saturday at the southside Applebee's in Springfield. For a measly $5 you get all the pancakes you can eat and a drink. It runs from 8:00am - 10:00am.
It's Good To Be A Tiger! Jeff Staley, Director of Operations
Director of Special Services
What an exciting ending to our six-week therapeutic riding program for fifteen students with special needs! Ribbons, certificates of completion and hot dogs and homemade cookies contributed to the evening and showed our students how proud we are of the progress they made with their equestrian skills. It was also an opportunity to recognize each volunteer and express our gratitude for their devotion to our students. Over 60 volunteers from Willard Schools and community and Sac River Cowboy Church were crucial in the success of the riding program. So many expressed how blessed they felt to be involved in such a special program and to work with our students. I very much thank each and every one of the volunteers for the extra care they consistently demonstrated. Watching the smiles of students and volunteers will be a treasured memory for many parents and myself.
The Horses of Hope sessions, which were funded by high school Oprah Big Give efforts, proved beneficial as students worked on balance, fine and gross motor skills, listening skills, communication ("move on" and "whoa"), social interaction and compliance. Highlights included: watching Cordell M. as he waited to mount his horse, Whisper ...." I can count to 10 (for patience), but I'm not going to....I can't wait any longer"! Cordell did learn to wait somewhat patiently and used his time twirling the rope made and given to him by volunteer Billy Epperson; listening to the giggles of Rochell P. and Sara S. who overcame fears of being on a horse and falling in love with the experience..."I don't think I ever want to get off Whisper"; Spencer B. obtaining his goal of riding horse Heidi backwards...volunteers Kari Sealine, Connie Bohr and Bob Whittaker encouraging him with "oh yes, you can do. Keep trying, you've got it"; Grace U. spotting paraprofessionals Heather Abney and Jo Boyd and grinning ear-to-ear as she knew they were watching her respond to instructor Micah as she was directed to throw the ball into the hoop while on horseback. Other highlights include Jacob S. as he did airplane arms as he rode Slugger; Eli R. as he rode on his stomach and stretched as he waved to his fan club as well as discovered a fondness for volunteer Denny Gold's fiddle playing; Gary G. as he expressed how volunteer Ken Garrison impacted his life; Ryan R. as he put together puzzles while riding backwards on Slugger; Asher B. as he got his special mail out of the arena mailbox; Stephen W., David W. and Israel B. as they became independent riders on Momma, Heidi and Whisper; Jackson N. as volunteers Nedra White, Dagny Ogle and Carrie Mathis sang him through his riding sessions; and, three-year old Graycen H. as volunteers "fought" over who was going to get to work with such a little charmer. Special moments like these occurred each and every session.
Thank you to Stephanie Sechler and Diane Crain for their work to ensure Horses of Hope became a reality, to Jean Turk and Brenda Hyde for checking in volunteers each night, and to those of you who came to watch and support our students as they achieved their goals. We are hopeful this wonderful opportunity will be continued so these students and others can experience success as these. Sandy Gold, Director of Special Services
Willard High School
This week the hallways at the High School have been filled with music between class periods. It's not the choir or the band, nor are the students using their mp3 players, it is a fundraiser for March of Dimes sponsored by FBLA. Each day this week, between each hour ( passing times between classes ) FBLA has played a jingle over the PA system and the only way to "Stop the Bop" is to contribute to the charity. The fundraiser's name "Stop the Bop" is appropriate as many students are ready to move to another musical selection, or to end completely. The FBLA Team has done a great job of generating conversations this week about "Stop the Bop" and its purpose. WHS students are definitely gifted in finding creative ways to help others, and at the time of this writing we are approximately 1/2 way to our goal of $1,000.00 for March of Dimes. Stewart Pratt, Principal
Willard Middle School
This week marked the beginning of 2nd quarter at the Middle School, and many activities filled the calendar as always. We observed Red Ribbon Week all week, which emphasizes the dangers of drugs and alcohol, and how to avoid them. The high school Drama Team came over and were featured in a special assembly on Tuesday, which everyone really enjoyed. Several classes had special lessons to tie in with this theme, including Mrs. Robinson's FACS class, which held a simulated alcohol impaired relay race, which the kids really seemed to get into. The fall sports teams concluded their seasons, and we now begin preparing for the winter sports. Both boys and girls basketball tryouts will be held next week, and any student wanting to participate will need to have a physical on file before they will be able to play. This week also saw 8th graders making the trip to Doling Park in Springfield, and going on a cave adventure as well. We also held began our "Choices" classes for both boys and girls, which demonstrate to our students the importance of good judgment and clear thinking as they grow up and are faced with many new decisions to be made. Finally, make sure to come by and see what is going on next week during the parent - teacher conferences. They will be held on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons until 7pm, and there is no better way to show our kids that you care than by taking the time to see what they are doing in school. We appreciate your support, and look forward to seeing you next week. Thanks! Tom Merriott, Asst. Principal
Willard Intermediate School
WIS students were given the chance to redeem "ibucks" they have earned during the 1st quarter on Friday the 24th. Students earned these by demonstrating positive behaviors that go along with our character words of the month. Prizes range from candy all the way up to an iPod shuffle! We are so appreciative of all the businesses, parents, and teachers that helped to make this happen for our students. We look forward to rewarding WIS students for going above and beyond at the end of each quarter this school year.
Our first Title I reading night of the year was a huge success! We had a great turn out and everyone enjoyed dinner and a scavenger hunt that incorporated some of the reading strategies the students have been working on. Thanks to everyone that made it out and to Mrs. Gehring and Ms. Starkey for making this event so much fun.
A reminder that school will not be in session on 10/31. Enjoy the three day weekend! Tom Davis, Principal
Willard Central Elementary
This week we celebrated the hard work of the 4th grade students with their music concert. Thanks to Mrs. Chatman and the 4th grade for kicking off the W.C.E. Wild Concert Series that goes along with our school theme this year. We also celebrated our students hard work for the first quarter with our Terrific Tiger Celebration on Friday afternoon where we recognized students responsible work in academics, behavior and attendance.
As we look ahead to next week, we are excited about Student-Led Conferences on Tuesday and Thursday evening. This will be a wonderful opportunity for students to share their progress for the 1st quarter. To make the most of this time, we will be providing childcare for siblings during conferences. While you are here next week, dont forget to stop by the Book Fair in the library and to join in the Red Ribbon Week festivities.
Have a great weekend and remember that Willard Central is Wild About Learning! Shane Medlin, Principal
Willard East Elementary
Red Ribbon Week in Review: Today is our final day of celebrations for Red Ribbon Week! We have had a very exciting week with our spirit dress up days and special events. Looking forward to next year, Mrs. Hall's 4th grade class has already written me letters with ideas for our spirit days for next year. We always hope that the lessons learned during Red Ribbon Week will stick with them as they grow up.
Tiger Pride Friday: Today will host our October Tiger Pride celebration. In addition to all our usual recognitions the students who sold 20 items or more will get to spray Principal Miller with Silly String.
Fall Party: Next Wed. our teachers will be hosting Fall Parties for their students. Our PTO moms graciously organize these parties and the students have a great time.
P/T Conferences: Next week we will also be hosting our Parent/Teacher Conferences. If you are not sure when your conference is please feel free to give us a call and we will help you get one scheduled. We look forward to visiting with everyone next week.
Mark Your Calendar:
- Care Mobile
Willard North Elementary
Lots of things going on at Willard North! This week for Red Ribbon Week we booted out drugs by wearing camo, brought our favorite stuffed animal to school, wore our wow shirts, wore western wear and on Friday wore our pajamas! We had the Magic of No Assembly for our students sponsored by Rural Electric Cooperative. We also saw the high school Drama class perform. Pumpkin Carving took place for Spooktacular as well! We are looking forward to Parent Teacher Conferences next week! Rhonda Bishop, Principal
Willard South Elementary
Willard South celebrated Red Ribbon week with several fun festivities. We released red balloons on Tuesday to show our unity in staying drug free. On Thursday, we had a special visit from the WHS Theater Department. They presented several skits on making good choices. They are always a BIG hit with the students! In addition to Red Ribbon Week we also celebrated the end of the quarter with our first Tiger Pride Assembly. We distributed numerous certificates to students for showing great character, perfect attendance, reading progress and more! We also recognized fourth grade students who scored advanced on the 2008 MAP test last spring. Great job WS students! Next week we are looking forward to meeting with parents on Tuesday and Thursday evening during parent teacher conferences. We will also have fall classroom parties on Wednesday, October 29th. Don't forget that school will not be in session on Friday, October 31st. Have a wonderful weekend! Kara Crighton-Smith, Principal
For information on the Willard Children's Charitable Foundation, please contact Judy Craig at 742-2506 or Dr. Kent Medlin at 742-2584.
Willard Park Board News
Willard Parks and Recreation is working hard to provide the community with organized sports, fun family activities, great parks and much more. I want to encourage everyone to participate in all that we currently have going on. Many new exciting events are currently being organized. If you have any questions about any of the activities listed below please call me at (417)742-2262.
Kevin McDonald
Parks and Recreation Director
City of Willard
NEW WILLARD PARKS AND RECREATION WEBSITE: Willard Parks and Recreation is in the process of creating a new website. Work has begun on it and the new site will launch December 1st, 2008. The new site will be updated daily and will make registration easier.
Safe Halloween: Tomorrow Night
The Parks Department would like to invite you to attend Willard's Annual Safe Halloween Festival. This year's festival will be held Saturday October 25th at 5:45pm at the Willard Recreation Center. Changes: This year the Safe Halloween Festival will feature a Trunk or Treat, Haunted House, Games in the Gym, Costume Contest and much more. Don't miss this year's Safe Halloween. Wear your costume!!!
Willard Swimming Pool:
Willard's new swimming pool is currently under construction. The new pool will be completed in June 2008. Stop by Jackson Street Park to check out the progress.
Willard Cardinals Night:
Go ahead and mark your calendars now. The City of Willard will be hosting a community wide outing to the Springfield Cardinals game on June 4th, 2009. The entire public is invited to attend. Tickets will go on sale in May 2009.
Music in the Park:
Willard Parks and Recreation will be hosting Music in the Park events in 2009. Willard's Music in the Park will be held at the Jackson Street Park in the summer of next year. Currently we are looking for sponsors for the 2009 Willard Music in the Park series. The series will be three Saturday nights. The City of Willard is looking for three sponsors to sponsor $300 for one of the performances. Included in the sponsorship will be your name in all of the advertising and special thanks the night of the event. For example we would call the events City of Willard along with your name present Music the Park 2009. If you are interested in sponsoring this please contact me at your earliest convenience. We want to have the sponsors in place by December 1st, 2008 so we can begin planning and so we can put the sponsors in the 2009 Parks Department Calendar of Events that will be distributed throughout all of next Year. Please join with Willard Parks and Recreation to bring Music in the Park to our community.
New Willard Horseshoe Pits:
Willard Parks and Recreation has added a new horseshoe pit at the Willard Recreation Center. The new pit is located behind the Recreation Center by the baseball fields. Horseshoes are available for checkout everyday inside the Rec. Center for free. The horseshoe pit will be open everyday that the Recreation Center is open. For more information please contact (417)742-2262.
Christmas at the Willard Recreation Center:
On Saturday December 13th at 6:30pm, come to the Willard Recreation Center. We will be watching a Christmas movie in the gym and you can come and get your picture taken with Santa. Also we will be hosting a Silent Auction (items include sports memorabilia and gift certificates from local businesses). All proceeds from the night will benefit the Willard Baseball Program. Dont miss the first annual Christmas in Willard at the Recreation Center.
Winter Camp Registration:
Are you looking for a place for your child to go during the Winter Break? Sign them up for the Willard Parks and Recreation Winter Camp. Registration will be held November 17th December 12th. The camp days are December 22, 23,26,29,30 2008 & January 2, 2009. Ages accepted will be K-6th grade and the fee is $17.50 per day.
Fall Competitive Basketball Registration:
Sign up is going on now for Willard's 2008 Fall Competitive Basketball League. The league is for grades 3rd-4th and 5th-6th boys and girls. Fees are $200 for in town teams and $225 for out of town teams. All games will be held at the Willard Recreation Center. The deadline to register is November 2nd. Registration forms are available at the Recreation Center. For more information call 742-2262.
Thank you so much!
Kevin McDonald
Director of Willard Parks and Recreation
133 N State Hwy Z
P.O. Box 187
Willard, MO 65781
(417) 742-2262
fax - (417) 742-6868
