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New faces, building improvements, block schedule face students at KHS
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By Andrew Kuehl
akuehl@kewaskumstatesman.com
KEWASKUM- You might think the biggest change for students heading back to Kewaskum High School (KHS) this September would be the new Rose Library, Kewaskum Theater and new quarters for the art and special education departments. This is not the case; instead students will be greeted with new faces, updated facilities, a new schedule and a new way to learn.
Principal Christine Horbas and new Associate Principal Anne Ignatowski say the largest change for returning students will be the implementation of the four-block schedule. The pair stated they are very much looking forward to the change.
The new four-block schedule gives students longer periods and the absence of study halls that will allow for longer time in the classroom, so students can get the help they need from teachers on various subjects. The change will also see students in class at 7:40 a.m. NOT 7:45 a.m. students will also remain in class until 3 p.m. instead of 2:45 p.m.
Horbas explained her perception from parents indicated many are up for the new schedule. “Students will learn to build relationships through advisories. I think this will allow us to stand ahead of other schools in the county,” stated Horbas.
As with the rest of the school district, a mentoring program called advisories will be a part of the new routine. Various topics will be discussed amongst students during this time where it is hoped students will be able to build better relationships with each other and their teachers.
“I think one thing I look forward to with the block, is coming to school in a less stressful environment. Teaching and learning will be more enjoyable for teachers and students. This school will distinguish itself. Positives things will come out of this,” Ignatowski asserted.
Early release on Wednesday occurs at 1 p.m. Parents have the option to allow their teen to go home or make them stay at school. KHS will have computer labs available, an open library and weight room.
Horbas stated that she is eager for other teen groups to approach her to hold their organizational meetings right on site. KHS students are also encouraged to volunteer at KES helping out with the activities there including the new Boys and Girls Club.
NEW FACES
In addition to newly appointed Associate Principal Anne Ignatowski, some other new faces will be seen in the high school building. Ignatowski says she is settling in and getting acclimated to her new position and is excited about being promoted.
Students will be introduced to two new guidance counselors this year. Mr. Dunn replaces Mrs. Blank; Miss Shimek replaces Miss Eberle who replaced long-time counselor John Baitinger last year. Miss Korth is replacing Ms. Luaber as a Spanish instructor. Mr. Steers takes over as social studies teacher for Ignatowski. Mr. Wilmas replaces Mr. Snyder who left for military. Mr. Michlig is the new band director replacing Mr. Paaske. Horbas proudly announced that Mr. Komp, a former engineer for AT&T would take over as a physics teacher replacing Mr. Soller who retired.
Horbas reported that longtime study hall aide Patty Soller will shift gears and move to Kewaskum Middle School. The change comes after the elimination of study halls at KHS. “(The) cafeteria will not be the same. KMS profits from our loss,” she commented.
New faces will not be limited to educators at KHS. Horbas reports the school will welcome six foreign exchange students. Two students each hail from France and Germany. One each originates from Hungary and Japan.
Horbas noted a definite increase in interest in the foreign exchange program. She attributes it to society becoming more global and that is why the program is very popular.
Remodeling project will be a sight for sore eyes
The new Rose Library is ready to welcome students. Ignatowski reported the new area utilizes space more efficiently and thus holds more books. A swank seating area complete with comfy armchairs can be found where students will be able to relax with a good book.
An expanded computer lab is located within Rose Library. These additional pods are used for research. A new computer lab adjoins the Rose Library boasting 30 new desktop computers. This lab will primarily be used for various classes.
A dedication ceremony for Rose Library is being planned. Horbas says once all the details are finalized; information will be published in the newspaper. At this time administrators are looking at dates in October.
The NovaNet Lab has also been moved to an area adjacent to Rose Library. NovaNet is a learning environment where students complete course work via a computer on the Internet. NovaNet took the place of Hope School that ended in 2003.
Ignatowski explained the NovaNet program aids students with credit recovery or scheduling conflicts and allows flexibility. A number of advanced placement courses will also be offered to students in this format for the future.
The new Kewaskum Theater is already receiving rave reviews and it’s not even fully completed. Ignatowski excitedly revealed some very interesting performances to attend this fall.
In addition to a drum and dance troupe from Haiti, The Kettle Moraine Symphony will also perform in addition to the annual fall musical. This year students will perform “Annie Get Your Gun”
Ignatowski says she is thrilled that people will begin seeing fine arts in the community. “It will bring lots of diversity to the area,” she stated.
The new art area is on its way to completion. It is believed the art classrooms will be complete by the time the final bell rings on Tuesday, September 4. The new space does not add classroom space but will be more functional and provide additional storage.
Gaining in the move will be the special education department. Looking ahead to the future, the district sees that special education services could double in the next 10 years.
The new space boasts a decompression room for students with autism. A shower will assist future students who need greater physical attention and to provide education to these students on ho to independently care for themselves. Students will receive hands on training with household tasks and using appliances like a clothes washer and dryer. A kitchen facility will assist students with cooking skills.
EDITOR’S NOTE- Many changes are slated for students heading back to Kewaskum Schools this September. As the district’s official newspaper we felt it was appropriate to announce those changes and other news pertinent to the return to classes on Tuesday, September 4. This is the second in a three-part series of articles regarding Back to School. Please watch next week’s edition for additional information regarding the return to school.
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