Vantage Career Center
The superintendent requested an executive session for the purpose of discussion of employment of personnel. The Board added resolutions to the agenda regarding the employment of personnel as recommended by the superintendent.
The Board approved a resolution requesting the fiscal officer to certify maximum security of bonds, a resolution of Necessity for the VFAP Bond Issue, and a resolution of Necessity for Replacement of Operating.
The superintendent reviewed the OSFC shortlist for the Construction Manager and informed the Board that interviews would be held July 18 in conjunction with Celina City Schools.
In new business, the board:
> Approved employment of the following, as needed, as scheduled: Jill DeWert, Interactive Media; Lynda Ragan, Van Wert Satellite/Family and Consumer Science;
> Approved stipends for curriculum development to: Jill DeWert, Andrew Rager, Sarah Noggle and Lynda Ragan;
> Approved changes to the job description of guidance counselor as presented by the superintendent;
> Approved employment of a guidance counselor.
The next regular Vantage Board of Education meeting will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the Cup & Saucer Restaurant.
The treasurer’s report included the approval of the June 5 regular board meeting minutes and the financial statements for the month of May 2008. The board approved FY08 final appropriations and revenues and FY09 temporary revenues and appropriations. The board transferred money from the general fund to the capital projects fund, cafeteria fund and to adult education for FY09, which satisfies the mandated contribution to maintain Adult Full Service Center status. They also approved a resolution to enroll in the Ohio School Boards Association Workers Compensation Group Rating Program for 2009.
Superintendent Staci Kaufman provided the board with an update for the construction project manager selection process for the OSFC project, discussed the rotation of Vantage Board of Education meetings at associate schools, levy planning progress, Jared’s Law inspection and the continuation of the Tools for Schools consultant.
In new business, the board:
> Approved employment of the following, as needed, as scheduled: Andrew Rager and Sarah Noggle, Paulding Satellite/Ag instructors; Lucy Bambauer and Scott Elwer, Delphos Jefferson Satellite/Ag instructors; Joyce Larimore and Beverly Tuttle, Delphos Jefferson Satellite/Family and Consumer Science instructors; Nora Sue Helle, Paulding Satellite/Family and Consumer science instructor; Bob Spath, Project Lead the Way instructor;
> Approved stipends for curriculum development to: Susan Farr, Pat Winicker, and Cindy Krizan;
> Approved extended days for Jerry Robinson, for the completion of the 07-08 House Project;
> Approved employment of Adult Education employees, as needed, as scheduled for 2008-2009 school year: Kay Carter, Adult Education Evening Coordinator; Melynda McCormack, Michael Kirkendall, Janelle Dull, Jennifer Moody, Shirley Jarvis, Gary Showalter, all Health Careers; Judy Bernard, Susan Castle, Marge Morrison, Diane Dirksen, all Paulding Youth Program; Michael DeMoss, Truck Driving; Margie Hubert and Sara Ricker, Computers; Diane Jones, AE Career Assessment Counselor; Denny Koester and Brent Wright, Welding; Larry Ray, CNC; Pat Winicker, Business/English; and Ted Tumbleson, EMT;
> Authorized the Superintendent to enter into consultant contract with Ron Schumm, Farm Business Planning & Analysis;
> Approved the new logo and tagline for Vantage Career Center;
> Approved the renewal of Participation Agreement with Ohio Schools Risk Sharing Authority for the period of July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009 (Consortium for property, fleet and liability insurance);
> Approved contract with NOACSC for our internet access service agreement effective July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009;
> Approved the Adult Education Evening Coordinator job description;
> Accepted cafeteria bids from Aunt Millie’s Bakery for bread and Prairie Farms Dairy for milk for the school 08-09;
> Accepted with thanks, the donation of supplies and tools valued at $350 for the trade and industry programs from the Tractor Supply Company; the donation of a 1994 Pontiac Grand Am valued at $400 to the Auto Technology program from Ms. Chris Sheehan; a grant of $1,000 from the Van Wert County Foundation to the GOALS program; funds from the Rothacker-Lampe Bequest from the Van Wert County Foundation to purchase electronic items and a $600 grant from the Patricia M. Lichtensteiger Memorial Fund of the Van Wert County Foundation for the Literacy Program at Vantage Career Center;
> Approved the student handbook for the 2008-2009 school year;
> Approved a resolution to pick up employee’s 10% share of SERS contribution for the position of Superintendent’s Secretary/Assistant Treasurer.
The Superintendent requested an Executive Session for the purpose of discussion of employment of personnel. No action was taken.
A special Board of Education meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the Cup & Saucer Restaurant. The next regular Vantage Board of Education meeting will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the Cup & Saucer Restaurant.
Senior Health Careers at Vantage is a Co-op program. Students attend academic classes in the morning and then work in a healthcare facility to earn their lab credit. Employer representatives from the following facilities were in attendance at the banquet: AmeriCare Home Health, Defiance; Country Inn Enhanced Living Center, Haviland; Dalls Lamb Foundation, Payne; Family Caring Clinic, Van Wert; Hearth and Home, Van Wert; Okuley’s Pharmacy, Defiance; Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos and Van Wert and Westwood Behavioral Health Center, Van Wert.
Two outstanding Health Careers students, Kaitlin Lindeman from Delphos Jefferson and Timna Klopfenstein from Wayne Trace, were presented with the Award of Distinction at the banquet. Senior Health Careers is taught by Mrs. Shirley Jarvis.
CAPTION
1: Vantage senior Health Careers student, Kaitlin Lindeman from Delphos
Jefferson, is pictured with Libby Metzger, Assistant Director of Nurses
at Vancrest Health Care Center in Delphos.
CAPTION
2: Vantage senior Health Careers student, Timna Klopfenstein, is
pictured with Tina McGinnis, Nurse Aid Supervisor at Vancrest Health
Care Center in Van Wert.
CAPTION:Vantage
senior Electricity student, Alex Burnett from Crestview, recently had
his hair cut to donate to Locks of Love. On the left is Alex “before”
his haircut – on the right he shows off the 10 inches of hair “after” it
was cut! Senior Cosmetology student Darci Hitchcock from Van Wert
admires her work.
Memory
books, senior pictures, cap and gown pickup and graduation party
invitations…As the class of 2008 prepares for graduation, many students
are torn between the comfortable environment of school and the
anticipation and excitement of the future. I had a chance to talk to
several seniors recently and here’s what they had to say about their two
years at Vantage.Andrew Wilt, a senior Welding student from Van Wert said, “Coming to Vantage was a great experience. I liked meeting new people at Vantage. I was also able to earn 4 AWS (American Welding Society) certifications through my welding program.” Andrew is on early placement, working at FabWeld in Ft. Wayne.
Steven Carlisle, an Antwerp senior in the Network Systems program said, “My two years at Vantage were fun. I learned a lot in my program. Coming to Vantage made me more open to trying new things and meeting new people.” Steven is currently on early placement at Golden Heritage Foods and plans on attending Rhodes State College and majoring in Networking and Network Security.
Casey Dull, a senior Cosmetology student from Wayne Trace is looking forward to the future. “I’m really glad I came to Vantage for high school. I plan on using my cosmetology skills to help finance my college education. Casey is heading to Tallahasee, Florida to pursue her education. One day she hopes to be a respiratory therapist.
Several classmates in Early Childhood Education - Jennifer Roberts, Emily Erhart, Amanda Horstman, Megan Taylor, Tiffany Siefker and Paige Fishbach - really enjoyed working with the preschoolers. “It was fun to be around the preschoolers. We made so many new friends – it was great.” The girls are all planning on working this summer as they finalize their plans for next year.
“Coming to Vantage really gave me a heads-up about what working in the electrical trade would be like, “said Van Wert Electricity senior Ryan Bickle. After three interviews, Ryan has landed a coveted apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 32 in Lima. His classmate Jake York, also from Van Wert, said Vantage was a good experience for him too. He’ll work this summer as he prepares to attend Rhodes State College for Mechatronics.
Tyler Miller, a Carpentry senior from Lincolnview said, “I’m really glad I came to Vantage. There were only six of us in the senior class, and we built a house from the ground up! That was a great experience.” Tyler’s planning on going directly into the workforce.
Parkway’s
Katie Diment, a senior in the Medical Office Management program
thought that she was treated more like an adult at Vantage. She’s been
on early placement, working at Van Wert Family Physicians. After
graduation, she plans to find immediate employment and possibly take
some classes to be a Medical Transcriptionist. Tricia Utterback from Wayne Trace and Kari Burgei from Ft. Jennings are close friends. They probably would not have met each other had they not come to Vantage in the Business Information Technology program. “I can’t believe we’ve only known each other for two years, it seems like we’ve been friends forever.” Both also agreed that in addition to learning business basics in their program, they learned a lot about themselves as people. Tricia is planning on a career in business and Kari is heading to the University of Northwestern Ohio to study Marketing.
Some students have already started on their career. Johnathan Young from Lincolnview is using his auto body repair skills working at Straightline Auto Body Shop. Jeremy Ewing, a Precision Machining student from Van Wert is at Braun Industries. Scott Parker, a welder from Antwerp, along with Tyler Lucas and Mitch Schmidt, both Precision Machining students from Antwerp are all working at Nemco Medical in Hicksville. Andrea Sherry, a Cosmetology student from Paulding is working at the SmartStyle Salon at WalMart in Town Centre.
Timna Klopfenstein, a Health Careers senior from Wayne Trace is excited to begin a new 1+2+1 college program at Defiance College this fall. “This is the first year it’s being offered and I can’t wait to start.” Timna will be preparing for a career as a nurse practitioner.
Vantage is very proud of the senior class of 2008. Whether already working, taking some time off from school, joining the military or heading off to college in the fall, Vantage congratulates the senior class of 2008. Best wishes always!
CAPTION 1:
This group of Vantage seniors enjoys one last time together before the morning bell on their last day of school.
CAPTION 2:
Alisha Clippinger (left) and Jessica Johns, both from Ft. Jennings, wear their Vantage senior shirts on the last day of school.
Awards
of Distinction and scholarships highlighted the annual Awards Assembly
at Vantage Career Center on Tuesday, May 13th. The entire student body,
along with staff members, home school representatives, family and
friends, joined together at this event to recognize the achievements and
accomplishments of students enrolled in Vantage career technical
programs.Special guest speakers at the assembly were seniors Tricia Utterback, a Business Information Technology student from Wayne Trace and Jeremy Ewing, a Precision Machining student from Van Wert. Tricia looked back on all the events and activities she was involved in during her two years at Vantage, and thanked staff members for their guidance. Jeremy’s message was about coming a long way in life and, although it hasn’t always been easy, the senior class of 2008 is ready to graduate. Both student speakers thanked their classmates and teachers for their friendship and support.
Each year, career-technical teachers select outstanding students to receive an “Award of Distinction”. To be eligible for this award, a student must demonstrate leadership qualities at school, have outstanding achievement in their program area, show exceptional skills in the subject area, participate as an active member of a school career-technical club and demonstrate cooperation, initiative and responsibility.
This year’s “Award of Distinction” winners are: Calvin Sinn (Ag Diesel Mechanics), Johnathan Young (Auto Body Repair), Brady Hoersten (Auto Technology), Rusty Warnecke (Carpentry), Casey Dull (Cosmetology), Emily Erhart (Early Childhood Education), Cynthia Clellan (Food Careers), Timna Klopfenstein and Katie Lindeman (Health Careers), Joseph Gable (Industrial Mechanics), Cristy Branham (Interactive Media), Katie Diment (Medical Office Management) and Jeremy Ewing (Precision Machining).
Scholarship recipients were also recognized at the assembly. The Robert C. Stevens Scholarship is given by the Vantage Teacher’s Organization in memory of Bob Stevens, who taught Occupational Work Experience (OWE) at Vantage from 1976 until 1984. Students who are awarded this scholarship have shown outstanding achievement in their program area, while demonstrating initiative and perseverance. This year, the Robert C. Stevens Scholarships were awarded to Brady Hoersten (Ottoville), Jessica Johns (Ft. Jennings) and Janine Link (Paulding).
The
Joshua Ralston Memorial Scholarship was established in 2003 in memory of
Josh Ralston, a Vantage Ag Diesel student from Parkway. This scholarship
is given to a student pursuing a career and further education in
mechanics. Josh’s father, Scott Ralston presented this scholarship to
Calvin Sinn an Ag Diesel student from Wayne Trace. The Principal’s Award, a new award this year, was given to two senior students who made great strides during their junior and senior years at Vantage. Nina Anez, an Auto Body student from Van Wert and Thomas McMichael, a Precision Machining student from Paulding were the recipients of this award.
This year’s Central Mutual Black Inc. winner was Tricia Utterback, a Business Information Technology student from Wayne Trace. Casey Roop,
a
Health Careers senior from Van Wert was awarded the Van Wert Rotary
scholarship. Andrea Sherry from Paulding was the recipient of the Ohio
Board of Regents scholarship. All Vantage scholarship recipients were
recognized at the Awards Assembly.
National skills contestants were also recognized during the assembly. Business Professionals of America (BPA) national contestants were Shiyanne Hooke (Crestview) and Amanda Perry (Crestview). Rusty Warnecke (Ottoville) will be representing Vantage in the Cabinetmaking contest when he competes at the SkillsUSA National Championships in Kansas City this summer. Joining him at Nationals will be Sam Price (Van Wert) and Chris Vibbert (Van Wert) competing in the Mechatronics contest. Other students who participated in state contests were recognized, as well as National Technical Honor Society members, students receiving academic awards, perfect attendance awards, student ambassadors and Girls and Boys State delegates.
CONGRATULATIONS to the Vantage Career Center class of 2008!
CAPTION 1:
Vantage Award of Distinction winners: (Front row) Timna Klopfenstein, Cristy Branham, Casey Dull, Emily Erhart, Kaitlin Lindeman, Cynthia Clellan (Back row): Calvin Sinn, Rusty Warnecke, Jeremy Ewing, Joseph Gable, Johnathan Young, Katie Diment. Unavailable for the picture was Brady Hoersten.
Have
you ever wondered how doctors and nurses get organized in the operating
room as they prepare for a surgery? The afternoon junior Health Careers
class at Vantage got the chance to experience what it’s like in the
operating room (almost). Mrs. Sylvia Pickett, a Certified Surgical
Technologist (CST) from Mercy Western Hills Hospital in Cincinnati,
visited the class on Friday, May 2. Her presentation was unique. The students were assigned “roles” and a corner of the Health Careers lab was turned into a set that looked very similar to an operating room. Sarah Korte from Lincolnview was the “surgeon”, Lizzy Osborn from Antwerp was the “assistant to the surgeon”, Chris Cunningham from Crestview was the “certified registered nurse anesthetist” and Michelle Foertch from Van Wert was the “certified surgical technologist”. The “patient” was CJ King from Van Wert. It was an incredible opportunity for the students.
Earlier in the week, all the junior Health Careers students spent time at Van Wert County Hospital. After touring the entire facility on Monday, the remainder of the week was filled with students observing in several areas including medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, intensive care, radiology, cardio pulmonary services and other areas of the hospital . Students learned more about health care employment possibilities, the education needed for specific areas, approximate salaries that could be expected, the pros and cons of the job and the availability of jobs in the future.
A special thanks to everyone at Van Wert County Hospital who took the time to help these students get a glimpse into the health career field.
CAPTION:
Mrs. Sylvia Pickett (left), a surgical technician from Cincinnati, orchestrates a group of Vantage junior Health Careers students as they take on roles of operating room personnel in the Vantage Health Careers lab. Students pictured are (left to right) Lizzy Osborn (Antwerp), Chris Cunningham (Crestview), Sarah Korte (Lincolnview) and Michelle Foertch (Van Wert).
05-01-08
Vantage Board Hears More About OSFC Renovation Project
The regular monthly meeting of the Vantage Board of Education was held on Thursday, May 1, 2008. The treasurer’s report included the approval of the April 7 and April 22 regular board meeting minutes and the financial statements for the month of March 2008. The board approved a resolution to approve the updated 5 year forecast and amended appropriations and revenues for FY08. They also approved a resolution to authorize ING Financial Advisors, LLC as Vantage Career Center’s 403(b) Tax Deferred Annuity Program Plan Administration. A representative from the OSFC as well as Bruce Miller, architect with Garmann/Miller Architects, were present to answer questions from the board on the proposed renovation and expansion project.
Superintendent Staci Kaufman provided the board with an update on the interview process for Administrative restructuring and teaching positions. She discussed changing the August board meeting date due to a conflict with the All-Ohio ACTE Conference. Director Bob Vennekotter reviewed the state contestants and national qualifiers, senior capstone project day, the recent bloodmobile and announced the Vantage Awards Assembly on May 13 at 9:00 a.m. Principal Keith Rydell was proud to announce that Mike Knott and Robin Burns completed their Praxis III assessment and passed with flying colors. He also discussed the recent Haiti Trip, the Legislative Luncheon in Columbus and the GOALS day. Adult Education Director Jim Grant reported on the All-Ohio Adult Workforce Development Educators conference that was recently held. He provided a summary of winter quarter classes and information on the Federal Perkins Act 5-year grant application.
In new business, the board:
Approved employment of the following, as needed, as scheduled: Jonathan Pickett, Science, Kathryn Hartoon, Science, Brent Wright, Welding, Mike Villena, Auto Body; Karen McGilton, Bob Hall, Nancy Sheets, Marie Bentz, Penny Baucom, all summer maintenance and Phyllis Wortman, Adult Education Evening Substitute Secretary;
Approved extended service contracts for the following as submitted: Adam Lee, Marcia Osenga, Dee Howell, MaryJo Wilhelm, Susan Farr, Jim Fisher, Vern Fischer, Pam Knodel, Shirley Jarvis, Jennifer Waltz, Pat Winicker, Jerry Robinson, Larry Mengerink, Tammy Deitsch, Cindy Krizan, Jean Minnig, Ben Winans;
Accepted the retirement resignation of Mary Ann Hall, ECE Instructor effective May 31, 2008;
Approved paid administrative leave for John Keuneke starting April 29, 2008;
Authorized payment of stipend to Jean Minnig for Lead Academic Teacher for 2008-2009;
Approved a Supplemental contract for Jo Mohr for T & I/FBPA Readiness;
Approved NEOLA new, revised or replacement policies handed out at the April 22 meeting;
Approved a satellite agreement for Family and Consumer Sciences and Agriculture programs with Paulding Exempted Village Schools for 2008-2009;
Authorized the Superintendent to enter into a purchase agreement for two building lots for the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 house construction projects;
Authorized the Superintendent to request November 10, 2008 as a waiver day for staff development;
Approved amendments presented to the Superintendent’s contract;
Approved the Treasurer’s contract from January 1, 2009 through July 31, 2013;
Resolution to approve Memorandum of Agreement with the VTO regarding Grievance Suspension Agreement;
Accepted with thanks a $250 donation from Beta Delta Chapter of Psi Iota Xi Sorority to the preschool program.
The Superintendent requested an Executive Session for the purpose of discussion of employment of personnel. No action was taken.
The next Vantage Board of Education meeting will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2008 at
7:00 p.m. in the Cup & Saucer Restaurant.
Guest speaker for the evening was Mrs. Beth Evans, Vantage English teacher. Mrs. Evans presented a unique reading of “Rindercella” (that’s Cinderella backwards, sort of).
The
chapter honored Mr. Kevin Van Oss, Vantage Industrial Mechanics
instructor, with an FFA Honorary Degree for his involvement with the
Vantage FFA Chapter. Many awards were presented to FFA members throughout the evening. Senior Calvin Sinn from Wayne Trace and junior John Powell from Crestview were presented with “Quiet Leader” awards for setting an example to others by their actions. The “110% Ag Credit” award was given to senior Adam Eickholt from Ottoville and junior Pete Wellman from Parkway.
Receiving the Scholarship awards for outstanding grades were seniors Nathan Arn from Van Wert, Ross Kneuven and Adam Schnipke from Ottoville, Calvin Sinn from Wayne Trace, Zachary Stutz from Crestview and Thomas Zuber from Antwerp. Juniors receiving the Scholarship awards were Rustin Adam from Crestview, Brett Carder from Continental, Isaac Kistler from Lincolnview, John Powell from Crestview, Codi Walser from Van Wert and Eric Zimmerman from Continental.
Juniors receiving the Greenhand award for their first year involvement in FFA were Rustin Adam (Crestview), Brett Carder (Continental), Richard Froelich (Paulding), Terry Jackson and Isaac Kistler (Lincolnview), Casey McDougall (Crestview), Adam Pohlman (Delphos St. Johns), John Powell (Crestview), Codi Walser (Van Wert), Mark Weidenhamer (Paulding) and Eric Zimmerman (Continental).
Receiving the Chapter award for their second year as an active member of an FFA Chapter were seniors Nathan Arn, Mark Gillette, and Ethan Mengerink all from Van Wert, Robert Bair and Dustin Dotson from Paulding, Joe Barker, Richard Zielke and Thomas Zuber all from Antwerp, Cory Birkemeier from Kalida, Cody Bloom, Adam Eickholt, Ross Kneuven and Adam Schnipke, all from Ottoville, Craig Hoersten from Delphos Jefferson and Zac Stutz from Crestview.
Team awards were also presented at the banquet. The Tractor Troubleshooting team of Nathan Arn and Zac Stutz was recognized for their 5th place finish in district competition. The Outdoor Power Equipment team (formerly the Small Engine team) of Richard Froelich, Terry Jackson and John Powell, was recognized for their 10th place finish.
The banquet concluded with a power point presentation, compiled by senior Tom Zuber
CAPTION 1:
Vantage junior Rustin Adam recognizes this year’s FFA Honorary Degree winner, Mr. Kevin Van Oss at the FFA banquet as senior Adam Eickholt looks on.
At a special Board of Education meeting on April 22, 2008, the Vantage Board of Education met to discuss the proposed building renovation project and anticipated offer of assistance by the OSFC which will require the board’s commitment to pursue local funding.
Treasurer Lori Davis presented different financing options for the proposed building project.
Superintendent Staci Kaufman reviewed levy options and the scope of the renovation and building project, NEOLA policies and the proposed elimination of the Business Information Technology program.
In new business, the board:
> Accepted the resignation of Romaine Whetstone, In-School Suspension Supervisor for the purpose of retirement effective at the end of the 2007-2008 school year;
> Non-renewed the temporary contracts for Barb Huber and Bill Keith;
> Approved the Career Technical Supervisor, Principal and Director job descriptions;
> Approved resolution to eliminate the Business Information Technology program starting school year 08-09.
The Superintendent requested an executive session to discuss employment of personnel. No action was taken.
The next Vantage Board of Education meeting will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the Cup & Saucer Restaurant.
On
Friday, March 28, the hallways at Vantage were filled with anticipation
as the Vantage seniors presented their Senior Capstone Projects to
teachers, staff and community members. The Senior Capstone Project is a
part of the student’s final year at Vantage. The project integrates the
skills, concepts, and data from the student’s program of study into one
culminating project. This is a three-part process: a written research
paper, a project or product created outside of the normal school day,
and a formal oral presentation using PowerPoint technology on a Smart
Board in front of a panel of adult judges and Vantage juniors. Each
student had the opportunity to demonstrate a significant personal and
academic growth. Emotions were running high - anxiety, eagerness and doubt - as the students reviewed their notes in the hallway just before the presentations began. Beth Evans, senior English teacher said, “The Senior Capstone project provides an opportunity for making the last two years of high school meaningful and practical. The Senior Capstone Presentation Day is filled with much excitement and anticipation. For most of our seniors, this day is a positive and memorable experience...one they will never forget.”
It was obvious that many had devoted a great deal of time to their projects and were very proud of them. Here are just a few examples of the projects that were presented.
Timna Klopfenstein, a Health Careers student from Wayne Trace presented her findings on embryo adoption. Jon Young’s senior project was an act of brotherly love. Jon, an Auto Body senior from Lincolnview, completely restored a go cart in memory of his younger brother Michael, who passed away in 2006. “It just seemed like the right thing for me to do. It was emotionally tough to work on the project, though. But it was good.”
Adam Null, a Building & Grounds Maintenance student from Van Wert, built a raised garden area at Hearth and Home Assisted Living Center in Van Wert, so that residents confined to wheelchairs could also have an opportunity to grow vegetables and flowers. Van Wert’s Jake York, a senior in Electricity, worked with classmate Ryan Bickle as they built a remote control lawnmower. Jake said, “Doing the Senior Project taught me about electrical controls, but it was more than that. It taught me to be positive, never give up and not to procrastinate.” Katie Pavel, a senior from Ft. Jennings in the Culinary Arts program expanded on her state-qualifying FCCLA entrepreneurship project by incorporating sugar free desserts at “Chocolates Galore” – her candy store. “I wanted to find out more about diabetes. The senior project also taught me to work hard, don’t give up and how to speak in front of a group. I was so nervous, but when I started talking I was OK.” Darci Ripke, a Cosmetology senior from Paulding created an informational video on “hair loss” using MovieMaker software.
In the business wing, Holden Profit, a Network Systems senior from Antwerp, took his love for comics to a new level as he created and wrote several pages of a comic book. He drew the artwork on the computer and then began the long process of adding layers of color to each drawing. Linsey Mosier, a Van Wert senior in the Interactive Media program, chose to make a scrapbook on the evolution of photography – from its’ beginnings to the digital age. Parkway’s Katie Diment, a senior in the Medical Office Management program, created a literacy incentive program for all Vantage English classes.
Daran Elston, an Industrial Mechanics senior from Continental built a metal turning table. “I learned that I can really accomplish something – and it felt great when I was done!” Frank Hempker, a Welding student from Delphos Jefferson, built and welded an aluminum biplane. Thomas McMichael, a Paulding senior in the Precision Machining program made a metal hitch plate for a Z71 truck. Nathen Goodwin, a senior from Parkway in the Auto Technology program rebuilt a truck engine. Chris Bayus, a Van Wert senior in the Electricity program built and wired a dragstrip Christmas tree reaction time game. Tyler Miller, a Lincolnview Carpentry senior, designed and built a beautiful oak bookcase. Casey Dull, a Cosmetology student from Wayne Trace, designed and built a miniature hair salon, “Casey’s Classic Cuts”.
During their formal oral presentation, all the seniors explained the processes they went through in developing their project, the expectations they had, problems or challenges that they encountered along the way, how long it took them to complete the project and what they really learned from the project.
Juniors were able to observe the seniors during their presentations this year. All the seniors had the same piece of advice to the juniors - “Start early, don’t procrastinate and choose a topic that interests you.”
In addition to Vantage staff members, nearly forty business and community members, business and industry partners and advisory committee members took the time to observe and evaluate these seniors. Several home school principals and guidance counselors were also in attendance this year. Dr. J. Terrance Davis, from Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus even made the 2 hour trip to observe Kaitlin Lindeman’s senior project on aortic stenosis!
The Vantage Senior Capstone Projects were unique, distinctive and interesting. A special “Thank You” to all of the judges and “Congratulations” to the seniors on a job well done!
CAPTION : Vantage Auto Technology senior Nathen Goodwin from Parkway shows off the truck engine he rebuilt for his Senior Capstone project.
Vantage
Career Center will be well-represented at the Family, Career and
Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) state skills contest in Columbus as
ten students advanced from local and regional contests.Culinary Arts students Katie Pavel (Ft. Jennings) and Chrissy Miller (Van Wert), participated in the FCCLA Entrepreneurship event. They received a Gold award for their project “Chocolates Galore”. For the contest, they created a binder that documented their research into opening up a candy store, which included everything from taxes, regulations and codes to advertising and funding.
The
Culinary Team – Jessica Detwiler (Continental), Drew Fisher (Delphos St.
John’s) and Cassie Martinez (Lincolnview) – also received a Gold award
for their top finish in the Culinary Team Event. For this competition,
students have 75 minutes to plan, prepare, plate and present a complete
meal to the judges. This year, they prepared Poached Chicken Princess
and sauce, glazed carrots, steamed asparagus, and roasted potatoes.
Their dessert was chocolate bar cookies decorated with sifted cocoa and
powdered sugar. The students are scored not only on taste and
presentation of the food, but also on cleanliness of their work area and
communication skills. The Culinary Arts instructor is Kristy Bidlack.Early Childhood Education students Amanda Horstman (Ft. Jennings) and Tiffany Siefker (Delphos Jefferson) advance to the state competition for their Chapter Service Project event. The students developed a presentation on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and then held a fundraiser, with the proceeds being donated to the March of Dimes. Jennifer Roberts (Wayne Trace) will be going to state to compete in the Early Childhood event. Jennifer prepared a portfolio and a resource container using “Numbers” as her theme and was judged on an impromptu activity and oral presentation.
Megan Taylor (Crestview), Kendra Branham (Paulding) and Jennifer Roberts (Wayne Trace) will compete in the Early Childhood Teaching Team skill event at the state competition. In this contest, the students will plan, prepare and present developmentally appropriate activities for a preschool session, which integrates specific early childhood content standards and competencies. The Vantage team will use “Seasons” as their theme. The Early Childhood Education instructors are Mary Ann Hall and Linda Morris.
All the students are excited about advancing to the state contest. FCCLA is a nonprofit national career and technical student organization. Involvement in FCCLA offers members the opportunity to expand their leadership potential and develop skills for life -- planning, goal setting, problem solving, decision-making and interpersonal communication -- necessary in the home and workplace.
There are still a few openings for high school students in both Culinary Arts and Early Childhood Education. If you’re interested in finding out more about these or other Vantage programs, please contact Vantage Student Services at 1-800-686-3944 ext. 126.
Congratulations and Good Luck to all student competitors!
CAPTION 1:
Vantage Culinary Arts students who will be competing at the state FCCLA contest are: (left to right) Jessica Detwiler (Continental), Katie Pavel (Ft. Jennings), Drew Fisher (Delphos St. John’s) and Cassie Martinez (Lincolnview). Unavailable for the picture was Chrissy Miller (Van Wert).
CAPTION 2:
Vantage Early Childhood Education students heading to the state FCCLA competition are: (front) Megan Taylor (Crestview) and Amanda Horstman (Ft. Jennings). (Back): Kendra Branham (Paulding), Tiffany Siefker (Delphos Jefferson) and Jennifer Roberts (Wayne Trace).
FINALLY - SOPHOMORES VISIT VANTAGE!
After
being postponed for several days due to bad weather, Vantage Career
Center hosted “Sophomore Visitation Day” on Thursday, February 14,
2008. Nearly 700 sophomores from the participating home schools spent
two hours in the Vantage building. They had the opportunity to
investigate and explore two different career technical programs of
interest to them. During each one-hour visit, there were hands-on
demonstrations and presentations prepared especially for the
sophomores. Selected Vantage students were available to talk to the
10th graders, answer any questions they had and tell them what it’s
really like to take career-technical classes. This was a terrific
opportunity for 10th graders to think about the different career fields
available to them!
Below are a few frequently asked questions – and answers - about coming to Vantage.
Q: Can I go to college after Vantage?
A: About 30-40% of Vantage graduates continue their education immediately after high school graduation at a two or four year college. Students are urged to check with their guidance counselor to be sure that all requirements are met.
Q: Can I participate in home school sports and activities?
A: YES! Students are encouraged to stay involved in extracurricular activities at their home school, such as sports, drama, etc. Vantage has very active student organizations - BPA (Business Professionals of America), FFA, FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America), and SkillsUSA, along with the Interact Club and Student Ambassadors.
Q: When are applications due at Vantage?
A: Sophomore and junior students who are considering attending Vantage should be sure to check with their home school counselors for the Vantage enrollment deadline. Applications are due at Vantage on March 5, 2008. Students may continue to enroll throughout the spring and summer, however, their first choice program may already be filled.
Vantage Career Center offers 18 different career-technical programs to choose from. If you have any questions, please talk to your home school counselor or call Student Services at Vantage at 1-800-686-3944 ext. 140.
Above: Sarah Deitsch, a sophomore from Parkway, learns how the mechanical lift works in the Health Careers lab on Sophomore Visitation Day at Vantage.
Vantage Inducts 25 Students in National Technical Honor Society
Katie
Diment, a newly inducted member of the Vantage 2007-2008 National
Technical Honor Society from Parkway High School, is pictured with
Parkway principal Greg Puthoff at the recent induction ceremony.
Twenty-five Vantage seniors from eleven different home schools were selected as members of the Vantage Chapter of the National Technical Honor Society. They were introduced and inducted at the annual NTHS banquet on December 11, 2007, held in the Cup and Saucer restaurant. Guests in attendance at the banquet to recognize this elite group of students included parents, home school principals and counselors and Vantage teachers and administrators.
The main purpose of the National Technical Honor Society is to reward
scholastic achievement in occupational and career technical education.
The NTHS assists members in their pursuit of career and educational
goals. Membership also encourages skill development, honesty, service,
leadership, citizenship, and individual responsibility. In addition,
students are selected for membership in NTHS as a reward for excellence
in workforce education; to develop self-esteem, pride and encourage
students to reach for higher levels of achievement; and to promote
business and industry's critical work-place values - honesty,
responsibility, initiative, teamwork, productivity, leadership, and
citizenship.
NTHS membership is the highest award for excellence in career technical
education and is one of the most reliable indicators of performance and
leadership in the American workplace. Students who achieved a 3.5 grade
point average or better, while maintaining a 95% attendance rate at
Vantage, were eligible to apply for membership. In addition to
submitting a resume and writing a paragraph stating why they would like
to be a part of the NTHS, the students also were required to obtain
three teacher recommendations.
Students selected for membership in the National Technical Honor Society
for the 2007 school year are Nathaniel Arn – Van Wert (Ag Diesel
Mechanics), Autumn Baldwin – Van Wert (Health Careers), Christopher
Bayus – Van Wert (Electricity), Alex Burnett – Crestview (Electricity),
Steven Carlisle – Antwerp (Network Systems), Katie Diment – Parkway
(Medical Office Management), Casey Dull – Wayne Trace (Cosmetology),
Emily Erhart – Kalida (Early Childhood Education), Jeremy Ewing – Van
Wert (Precision Machining), Chelsea Foster – Crestview (Cosmetology),
Andrea Freeman – Crestview (Health Careers), Brent Hoersten – Ottoville
(Electricity), Jessica Johns – Ft. Jennings (Interactive Media), Timna
Klopfenstein – Wayne Trace (Health Careers), Kaitlin Lindeman – Delphos
Jefferson (Health Careers), Janine Link – Paulding (Health Careers),
Chad Lobsiger – Crestview (Electricity), Tyler Miller – Lincolnview
(Carpentry), Holden Profit – Antwerp (Network Systems), Jennifer Roberts
– Wayne Trace (Early Childhood Education), Adam Schnipke – Ottoville (Ag
Diesel Mechanics), Chelsea Spryn – Antwerp (Health Careers), Rusty
Warnecke – Ottoville (Carpentry), Jacob York – Van Wert (Electricity),
Jonathan Young – Lincolnview (Auto Body).
Congratulations to these National Technical Honor Society members!
CAPTION: Newly inducted members of the Vantage 2007-2008 National Technical Honor Society. Front row: Nathan Arn, Jacob York, Chad Lobsiger, Steven Carlisle, Jonathon Young, Alex Burnett. Row 2: Kaitlin Lindeman, Jessica Johns, Chelsea Spryn, Andrea Freeman, Autumn Baldwin, Chelsea Foster, Katie Diment, Timna Klopfenstein, Casey Dull. Row 3: Janine Link, Adam Schnipke, Rusty Warnecke, Jeremy Ewing, Brent Hoersten, Tyler Miller. Unavailable for the picture were Christopher Bayus, Emily Erhart, Holden Profit and Jennifer Roberts.