November 2007

Greetings
Isn’t it hard to believe that the weather forecast calls for snow this weekend? Autumn leaves are officially on the ground, and many of us have dragged out the winter coats and gloves.  It occurred to me that we’ll be wearing these things until at least late March, so we may as well accept the fact that winter is coming to stay.  I hope that the first snow of the season happens on a weekend.  Hopefully, we are safe in our homes when this phantom snow arrives; perhaps reading a good book, or playing a game as a family.  These are the charms of the season.  While we might have to dress funny to keep warm, empty our pocketbooks to the gas company each month, and shovel that winter magic from our driveways, I do hope all of our 118 friends are healthy and happy as the winter season arrives. 

Board of Education
At its November 20 meeting, the Board of Education took action on several different items.  As a result of the delayed receipt of the second installment of property tax revenue, the Board of Education approved a resolution authorizing an interfund loan in the amount of $200,000 from the district’s Working Cash Fund to the Transportation Fund, to be repaid upon receipt of the second installment of real estate property tax revenue.  Mr. Scarsella, Director of Business Services, indicated that this loan is necessary in order to meet payroll because of the delay.  I am reminded of how fortunate we are as a school district to have funds in reserve so we do not have to borrow.  Our Board of Education’s fiscal planning has helped us as a school community to meet this crisis.  The board has expressed its concern over the continuing school funding issues to our state legislators.

In other news, Board of Education members Cathy Maier and Kathy Svanascini attended a Technology and Learning Conference hosted by the National School Board Association last month. An insightful presentation was made by Mrs. Maier and Mrs. Svanascini outlining key conference data.  Highlights from their report included technology-related strategies for teachers, administrators, board members, and parents----all with the aim of improving school performance and student achievement by ensuring that technology initiatives are effectively aligned with instructional goals. 

Administrators from each of our three buildings gave a School Improvement Presentation.  Principals and Assistant Principals from Palos East, West, and South presented plans for their school’s areas of success and areas where school improvement is desired.  Some of the highlights include:

  • Overall, 92% of Palos 118 students have exceeded state goals in the areas of reading, math and science.  Increased performance in the areas of reading, math, and science were achieved at all three schools.  It was noted that the high pupil performance in science was enhanced by the new science labs at district schools.

  • Each school is emphasizing continuing improvement goals in reading and math.  A new focus on writing is also occurring.

  • Schools will continue to improve communication though web sites and additional parent information.

  • School safety and pupil wellness remain high priorities.

  • At Palos East and West, student councils are planning a joint community service venture.

Areas of Success and School Improvement Goals are fully outlined on the district website http://www.palos118.org/Report_cards/

The board also approved three new extra-curricular activities for Palos South students. 

 

  1. Model UN Club where students will engage in authentic simulations of the United Nations.

  2. Cribbage Club which provides pupils with the opportunity to interact in a social environment and to enjoy friendly competition. 

  3. Club Action which is a community service club designed to connect students with community partners in an effort to provide community service projects and service learning throughout our community and adjoining areas.

 It should be noted that our Board of Education in Palos 118 is very supportive of programs that enhance the school experience for all students.  I appreciate our teachers who willingly participate in sponsoring these types of experiences for pupils.

Palos South Softball Coaches Brett Morrow and Mark Sandusky, along with their SWIC Boys Softball Tournament Champion players were recognized by the Board of Education for their champion season of winning both Conference and best in Tournament.  Congratulations to our players: James Capuano, Matt Giuffre, Greg Healy, Michael Hearne, Steve Kubiak, Ian Lowery, George Mantas, Andrew Massey, Cameron Meyer, Joe Prete, Danny Schmidt, and Jeff Trybula!  Thank you coaches, Brett Morrow and Mark Sandusky. 

Veteran’s Day
On Friday, November 9, Palos South held its annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony.  Everyone in attendance was moved by the tribute to our community members who have served our country in the armed forces.  Our band and choir, under the direction of William J. Hansen and Amanda Schuller, played patriotic songs and noted each branch of the armed forces in a special tribute.   Lieutenant Commander Scott Allen, father of 118 students Collin and Samantha, opened the ceremony.  It is important to teach our students about our country’s history and to honor those who have protected America.  Education is among our most basic rights as Americans.  Thank you to all of the veterans who attended the event.  A special thank you to the South Student Council for organizing the event and to Student Council Sponsors, Lori Swan and Kelly Dolan. 

PFA Silent Auction----IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO GET YOUR TICKET AND JOIN IN ON THE FUN!

The PFA Silent Auction is Friday (November 30)! Tickets are still available for purchase at the door.  The PFA apologizes that the address of DiNolfo’s was not included on the invitation.  Please note the address below.  Keep in mind there are two DiNolfo’s locations.  The Silent Auction is NOT at the Frankfort location. 

DiNolfo’s Banquets
14447 W. 159th Street
HOMER GLEN

If you’re able, grab a babysitter Friday and come join in the fun.  Support for our PFA provides our students with countless opportunities that would not be otherwise possible without their devoted and generous work in service of students.