EHS takes first at math competition

Posted: March 2, 2010

Edwardsville High School took first place in the Division 4AA of the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) regional competition conducted recently at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. [Full Story]

Young Authors

Posted: March 2, 2010

Participants in the Illinois Young Author’s Program at Hamel Elementary School gather Thursday with their masterpieces in hand. Altogether 44 students took part in the program, sponsor Denise Clouser said. First grader Macy Updyke was named state representative for the school for her book “The Polar Bear’s Haircut,” and second grade Alexandria Hicks was named county representative for her book “The Girl Who Went Underwater.”  [Full Story]

23 EHS seniors earn scholarships

Posted: March 2, 2010

Christmas came early – real early – for 23 Edwardsville High School seniors. Twenty were named Wentz Family Award 2010 Scholarship winners and three were Dirty Dozen 2010 Scholarship winners. [Full Story]

District 7 presents parent workshop: “Raising Caring, Confident, Capable Children”

Posted: March 2, 2010

District 7 will offer a workshop entitled “Raising Caring, Confident, Capable Children” on Tuesday, March 9, 2010, in the Liberty Middle School Media Center from 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Preparing children to live and work in an ever-changing society takes love, hard work, and endless patience. It also requires a balanced education that combines academic achievement with social and emotional growth. This presentation will educate parents on the Social Emotional Learning Standards embedded in the District 7 Health curriculum. It will also provide parents with strategies to support healthy social and emotional development at school and at home.

To register for the presentation, call Sandrarae Hyatt at 656-1182. The workshop is for adults only; childcare is not available.

Young Authors

Posted: March 2, 2010

Participants in the Illinois Young Author’s Program at Hamel Elementary School gather Thursday with their masterpieces in hand. Altogether 44 students took part in the program, sponsor Denise Clouser said. First grader Macy Updyke was named state representative for the school for her book “The Polar Bear’s Haircut,” and second grade Alexandria Hicks was named county representative for her book “The Girl Who Went Underwater.”  [Full Story]

"Lincoln Gives Back"

Posted: March 2, 2010

Philanthropy is the theme of “Lincoln Gives Back,” which begins a three-day run on Thursday at the Lincoln Middle School auditorium. A rather mundane concept in the abstract, but it’s one that comes alive when the student cast members perform songs by pop stars such as The Black Eyed Peas and Natasha Bedingfield to drive home their message. [Full Story]

23 EHS seniors earn scholarships

Posted: March 2, 2010

Christmas came early – real early – for 23 Edwardsville High School seniors. Twenty were named Wentz Family Award 2010 Scholarship winners and three were Dirty Dozen 2010 Scholarship winners. [Full Story]

Liberty Math Team wins competition

Posted: March 2, 2010

Liberty Middle School’s Math Team won the regional MathCounts competition for the seventh year in a row. The students competed Feb. 6 at SIUE against approximately 18 other middle schools from the metro east area. [Full Story]

Anzalone receives cheer scholarship

Posted: March 2, 2010

For the third consecutive year, an Edwardsville High School varsity cheerleader earned the top scholarship prize of $4,000 from the Illinois Cheerleading Coaches Association during the state championships conducted in Springfield. [Full Story]

Shiver me timbers

Posted: March 2, 2010

Edwardsville attorney Bill Meacham, in full pirate mode, reads to a group of students and parents Thursday night at Woodland Elementary School as part of Read Across America. The March 2 birthday of noted children's author Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, spurred the establishment of Read Across America, an annual event in which students gather at schools to listen to stories and receive free books.[Full Story]

Exhibits spotlight Black History Month

Posted: March 2, 2010

Liberty Middle School brought its celebration of Black History Month to a close this year with a Black History Museum featuring exhibits made by its students. [Full Story]

Input sought on summer program

Posted: February 24, 2010

Edwardsville District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower announced during the Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education meeting Monday night that District 7 parents will be surveyed to gain input about offering a limited reading summer school program for elementary and middle school students as well as surveyed about the possibility of changing the winter break from 10 school days off to seven. [Full Story]

Edwardsville National Guard soldier accepted to West Point

Posted: February 22, 2010

EDWARDSVILLE - Most high school seniors spend their final months before graduation thinking about prom, getting their diploma and college. An 18-year-old Edwardsville High School senior has visions of something bigger. [Full Story]

District enjoys recent accomplishments

Posted: February 22, 2010

In this time of economic crisis, which has been punctuated by an almost daily dose of bad economic news, it would be easy to focus on all things negative – what we can’t do because of funding shortfalls instead of what we have done and what we will continue to do. Though the crisis has led District 7 to make significant budget cuts over the last 18 months and is the driving force behind another $3.1 million in proposed budget cuts, it would be a mistake to push the District and the community’s accomplishments during this time into the background. [Full Story]

Presidents on parade

Posted: February 19, 2010

Ryan Strohmeier shows off his Franklin Roosevelt sign during a Presidential Parade Tuesday afternoon at Columbus School. The school’s third graders made sandwich boards with pictures, photos and facts about a president and paraded through the building. Friends and family members lined the main hall to cheer them on. [Full Story]

District 7 presents parent workshop: Is your toddler ready?

Posted: February 17, 2010

District 7 will host a program presented by Children’s Hospital called Diapers to Underpants. The class will be offered on February 25 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the Liberty Middle School Auditorium.

Of all the milestones of development, parents often feel the least-prepared and most anxious about toilet training. This class is designed to alleviate those worries and provide parents with strategies to use. Parents will learn to recognize the natural signs that their child is ready to begin toilet learning. There will also be a discussion of effective ways to help children achieve this important milestone.

Parents of toddlers who are ready or will soon be ready for this step are encouraged to attend. Please call Children’s Hospital at 800-678-5437 to register for Diapers to Underpants.

Workshop will turn out better parents

Posted: February 16, 2010

Better children require better parents. With that in mind, Edwardsville District 7 is offering a workshop series entitled, “How to Get them to Stop! Part I and II.” The workshops will be conducted from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16, and Tuesday, March 2, at the Edwardsville High School Media Center. [Full Story]

Edwardsville District 7 plans kindergarten registration

Posted: February 16, 2010

The 2009-10 school year has passed the halfway point so it’s time to look toward 2010-11, particularly for those who will begin their first year of school. Edwardsville District 7 has scheduled spring kindergarten registration for the 2010-11 school year on March 10 at its primary buildings: Hamel, Midway, Nelson, Glen Carbon, Goshen and Leclaire elementary schools. Registration at each school will begin at noon and end at 7 p.m. [Full Story] - [Registration Flyer]

Simon shows up at "Woodland Idol"

Posted: February 16, 2010

"American Idol" may have topped the TV charts last week, but "Woodland Idol" was a smash hit with the Woodland Elementary students. During their school-wide morning meeting, the students watched their teachers and a few classmates participate in "Woodland Idol." The presentation was a part of the Woodland ISAT (Illinois Standards Achievement Test) committee’s school wide ISAT preparation activities that they have planned. [Full Story]

Worldly scholar

Posted: February 16, 2010

Austin Wang, a fourth grader at Albert Cassens Elementary School, is the school winner for the recent geography bee. Wang now takes a written qualifying test to see if he will qualify as one of 100 students to compete at the state bee on April 9. All state winners will advance to the National Geographic Society Bee in Washington, D.C., on May 25 and 26 where the winner will receive a $25,000 college scholarship. [Full Story]

Students raise $3,337.42 for Haiti earthquake victims

Posted: February 11, 2010

The Cougar Council of Albert Cassens Elementary School, under the sponsorship of teachers Adam Garrett and Lindsey Watts, organized a classroom coin collection to assist victims of the earthquake in Haiti. Cassens students contributed coins in the total amount of $3,337.42. The money was presented to Albert Bertram with the American Red Cross. Mr. Bertram thanked the students on behalf of the people of Haiti and said the money raised will go toward the purchase of water containers, cooking utensils, tents, mosquito netting, vaccines, and meals.

District 7 presents parent workshop

Posted: February 11, 2010

District 7 will offer a workshop series entitled How to Get Them to Stop! Part I & How to Get Them to Stop! Part II on Tuesday, February 16, 2010, and Tuesday, March 2, 2010, in the Edwardsville High School Media Center from 6:30-7:30 p.m. [More information]

Spelling Champs

Posted: February 11, 2010

Riley Kloostra, left, a fifth grader, is the first place winner and Ashley Siatkowski, right, a fifth grader, is the runner-up for the school spelling bee at Albert Cassens School. Both students will participate in the District Spelling Bee March 16 at Lincoln Middle School and Kloostra will also compete in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch Spelling Bee at Maryville University on March 6. [Full Story]

Goshen students reach out to Haiti

Posted: February 10, 2010

Goshen Elementary students and staff teamed up with Faith Lutheran Church Friday to make a difference in the lives of the children impacted by the recent earthquake in Haiti. Together they spent the day measuring and packaging meal pouches that will be sent to Haiti through a partnership with Kids Against Hunger.

During the week days, elementary students fill Goshen Elementary hallways, but on Sunday mornings, Faith Lutheran Church utilizes the building for its church services. Faith Lutheran has a main church site in Oakville, but also two satellite churches – one in Columbia and one in Edwardsville. [Full Story]

Goshen students emphasize recycling

Posted: February 8, 2010

Goshen Elementary students are seeing on a daily basis how they can make an impact on the environment through recycling. The students, kindergarten through second grade, are involved in a school-wide recycling program that began mid December. Together the students and staff have recycled 4,500 pounds of material since December that otherwise would have ended up in our local landfills. [Full Story]

2010-11 Kindergarten Registration Set

Posted: February 3, 2010

District 7 Kindergarten Registration has been scheduled for Wednesday, March 10, 2010, from noon until 7:00 p.m. All registration will take place at the child’s home school. Click [here] for additional information.

Summer school for students currently enrolled in grades 8-12

Posted: January 19, 2010

Registration for high school summer school begins on Monday, February 1, 2010, and ends May 7, 2010. Many students take advantage of summer school courses to free time in their schedules during the regular school year to pursue electives they might not have been able to fit in their schedules. [More Information]

Character Plus Parent Survey

Posted: January 4, 2010

Parents, please take a quick survey about your child’s school. Click here for the Madison County CHARACTERplus Way™ Parent Survey.

Students make shocking discoveries

Posted: February 2, 2010

What’s the best conductor of electricity? Metal? Plastic coated wire? Wood? And how exactly does an electromagnet work? These were just a few of the questions and concepts that the fourth grade students at Worden Elementary were learning about and answering while participating in several hands-on activities provided by The Magic House’s educational outreach program. [More Information]

Leskera accepted to West Point

Posted: February 1, 2010

Set to serve on a tennis court for the final season of his prep career at Edwardsville, Jordan Leskera recently learned his service game will not end there after being accepted into the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

“I was extremely excited when I first found out and I’m still excited right now,” said Leskera, who discovered his acceptance on Jan. 23 during a ceremony at the East St. Louis armory. “West Point is the best military school in the world. It trains the best leaders and with me having the opportunity to go to the school, for sure West Point’s going to give me the opportunity to be a great leader someday.” [More information]

 

EHS Chamber Singers will perform in Peoria

Posted: January 28, 2010

The Edwardsville High School Chamber Singers are one of only six groups from across the state of Illinois that has been chosen to perform Friday at the Illinois Music Educators Association All-State Conference in Peoria. [More Information]

Worldly scholars

Posted: January 28, 2010

The Woodland School Geography Bee winners are pictured from left, with third place Sarah Goldacker, second place Matt Gregor, and first place Cam Potter. Potter has taken a written qualifying test to see if he will qualify as one of 100 students to compete at the state bee on April 9. All state winners will advance to the National Geographic Society Bee in Washington, D.C., on May 25 and 26 where the winner will receive a $25,000 college scholarship. [More Information]

Spelling champs

Posted: January 28, 2010

The winners of the Liberty Middle School Spelling Bee are Eric Gray, an eighth grader, with first place, and runner-up Erin Bailey, a sixth grade student. Both students will now have the chance to compete at the District Spelling Bee on March 16. Gray will also have the chance to compete at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch Spelling Bee at Maryville University on March 6. [More Information]

Busy bees

Posted: January 28, 2010

Woodland School Spelling Bee winners are pictured from left, third place Alex Daly, second place Greer DenHouter, and taking first place Oliver Knapp. The three finalists will have the chance to compete at the Edwardsville District Spelling Bee on March 16 at Lincoln Middle School. Oliver Knapp will represent the school in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch Spelling Bee at Maryville University on March 6.

It's fun to stay at the...

Posted: January 22, 2010

Mikala Marquez, in pink, an eighth grade language arts teacher at Liberty Middle School, leads a group of staff and students in singing “YMCA” karaoke-style during the lunch period at Liberty Thursday. Liberty and Lincoln middle schools have been conducting fundraising events this week to raise money to send to the Red Cross for Haiti relief. As of Thursday, the schools were very close to meeting and expected to exceed their goal of collecting $3,000.

 

Spelling champs

Posted: January 25, 2010

Miles Horton, right, a fifth grader at Columbus Elementary School, winner of the school spelling bee, and Collin Garvey, left, fifth grade and the runner-up, will be competing next in the District spelling bee March 16 at Lincoln Middle School. Horton will also have the chance to compete at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch Spelling Bee at Maryville University on March 6.

 

 

District 7 outlines proposed budget cuts

Posted: January 12, 2010

Superintendent Ed Hightower presented to the Board of Education for its consideration a five point action plan for 2010-11 at its regular board meeting on January 11. The plan addresses spending, financial stability, and maintaining a stable tax rate for District 7, which is currently the lowest in Madison County at 3.9594.
[Press Release] - [Presentation]

Students will raise money for Haiti

Posted: January 19, 2010

The devastation and crisis of the earthquake aftermath in Haiti have prompted the Liberty and Lincoln Middle School (LMS) students and staff to take action. Together they are hosting a variety of activities this week to raise money that will be donated to the Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti. [Full Story]

N.O. Nelson students dive into citizenship

Posted: January 12, 2010

It’s never too young to begin learning how to be a good citizen and Cathy Guennewig’s second grade students at N.O. Nelson Elementary School could easily host a refresher course on this subject. [Full Story]

District 7 presents parent workshop: “Helping Children Develop Self-Control”

Posted: January 12, 2010

The District 7 parent education staff will offer a two-part workshop entitled “Helping Children Develop Self-Control” on January 13 and 20, at the Jon Davis Wrestling Center Auditorium from 6:30-8:00 p.m. The workshops are designed to be taken together as a two-part series. [Press Release]

Students praised during mid-year report

Posted: January 4, 2010

In his year-end report to the board of education, Edwardsville District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower praised the students for their community involvement, provided an update on the state’s financial situation, reiterated the district’s five point action plan and emphasized that they would not be seeking a tax levy increase for the 2009 tax levy. [Full Story]

Leclaire students thank police officers, firemen

Posted:  January 4, 2010

Leclaire Elementary students and staff expressed their gratitude to the Edwardsville Fire and Police Departments last week by hosting a “thank you” luncheon. [Full Story]

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-2009-

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Superintendent provides the Board with 2009 Year-End Update

Posted: December 22, 2009

[Presentation]

St. Cecilia’s Knights of Columbus, Junior Service Club donate funds to District 7

Posted: December 22, 2009

Representatives from St. Cecilia’s Knights of Columbus donated approximately $9,000 to support District 7’s Special Education Program and the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Junior Service Club donated $1,000 to District 7 to be used for the purchase of school supplies, clothing items and other necessities for school children within District 7.
[Press Release] - [Full Story]

Board to Recognize Two District 7 National Board Certified Teachers

Posted: December 22, 2009

Two District 7 teachers recently received notification that they completed all requirements for National Board Certification. Dorothy Kraus and Ginger McDaniel of Glen Carbon Elementary School will be recognized at the District’s regular board meeting on December 21.  [Press Release] - [Full Story]




 

EHS Orchestra Announces Scholarship Winners

Posted: December 22, 2009

The EHS Orchestra recently awarded scholarships to three outstanding orchestra students. Junior Alex Ojeda won the EHS Orchestra Private Lesson Scholarship for violin, junior Hannah Jellen won the EHS Orchestra Summer Music Camp Scholarship for viola, and senior Alex Key won the EHS Orchestra Senior Award for cello. [Full Story]

Long-time EHS Secretary Retires

Posted: December 22, 2009

When Edwardsville High School reopens after this year’s holiday break, one notable person will be absent. Sandy Pringle, a 26-year veteran of District 7 and a 20-year veteran of EHS, will begin her retirement. Pringle’s connection with the school district began more than 30 years ago when she volunteered regularly at Leclaire Elementary, the school her sons attended. Pringle said that she liked working in a school setting so much that she became an employee in 1983, working as a Media Center Clerk at Glen Carbon Elementary. “I also worked in the media centers at Hamel Elementary and Edwardsville High School before becoming the Financial Secretary at EHS.  [Full Story]

Agriculture Education & the FFA

Posted: December 22, 2009

Since the Edwardsville High School agriculture education program’s inception in 2004- 05, the program has grown from a single Introduction to Agriculture course to five courses in 2009-10. The program is designed to prepare students for work or future study in the fields of agriculture, horticulture, and veterinary science.
[Full Story] · [Presentation]

Wrestling Center a community gift

Posted: December 21, 2009

Over the span of just nine months, Mark and Carol Mestemacher’s dream became a reality. Long-time supporters of youth wrestling, the Mestemachers, representing the Edwardsville Wrestling Club, donated $3.5 million for the construction of a 24,000-square foot multi-purpose facility which now stands inside the Edwardsville Sports Complex and in August was christened the Jon Davis Wrestling Center. [Full Story]

State scholars named at EHS and MELHS

Posted: December 16, 2009

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) has announced the 2010 Illinois State Scholars. State Scholars are awarded this recognition for their outstanding academic achievement. [Full Story]

EHS students determine whodunit

Posted: December 14, 2009

Was Milan Jackson’s death when she fell from the school’s clock tower the result of fraternity hazing gone extremely bad? Should Gamma president Chris Archer be held responsible for Milan’s death or was Milan a troubled teen looking for attention who took it upon herself to run up to the clock tower to raise the Gamma flag when she accidentally fell? [Full Story]

Gingerbread houses used as learning tools

Posted: December 9, 2009

Midway Elementary pre-kindergarten and Early Childhood (EC) students of Paula Schlueter (pre-k) and Ruth Shipley (EC) worked on their fine motor skills with the assistance of parent volunteers as they built gingerbread houses recently. [Full Story]

Weather Cancellation Procedures

Posted: November 30, 2009

Winter is fast approaching, and along with it comes the potential for weather and travel concerns. To that end, please review procedures for school cancellation and/or early dismissal due to inclement weather. The District will use its telephone broadcast system to notify parents of an emergency or unplanned event that causes early dismissal, school cancellation, or a late start. [Full Story]

Students' lesson is all wet

Posted: November 30, 2009

Kelly Ackerman’s Hamel Elementary kindergartners were busy being scientists last week as they were working through one of their science units – "Splish Splash – All About Water."  [Full Story]

District 7 feeling pinch from state

Posted: November 30, 2009

A combination of the economic downturn and the state of Illinois’ lack of expected state mandated payments have resulted in the Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education revisiting its three-year financial plan as well as developing an immediate action plan.  [Full Story]

Middle school students kick off 10th toy drive

Posted: November 30, 2009

Liberty and Lincoln Middle Schools' G.O. Team and F.I.T. (Friends in Touch) are again sponsoring and have officially kicked off their 10th Annual Toy and Food Drive, “Make a Child’s Day a Little Brighter.” [Full Story]

Board recognizes fall sports teams

Posted: November 30, 2009

Edwardsville High School Athletic Director Brad Bevis reported on the overall success of the high school’s fall sports program at the Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education meeting Monday night. Following his overview, the individual coaches provided a brief overview of their season. [Full Story]

Five-Point Action Plan to Address Current & Future Budget Shortfalls Resulting from State & Local Economic Conditions

Posted: November 24, 2009

[Presentation]

Students host Thanksgiving feast

Posted: November 30, 2009

Columbus Elementary third graders put on a Thanksgiving play and hosted a Thanksgiving feast for parents, relatives and special guests Monday as part of a tradition that their teacher Jeremy Heigert has upheld for the past seven years of his teaching career. [Full Story]

A taste of Merry Olde England

Posted: November 24, 2009

Picture Olde England during the Renaissance era in the 1500s – a king and his queen at the head of a dinner table, ladies and lords dressed in elaborate 16th Century attire, and a court jester announcing each course of an enormous meal with a musical presentation. [Full Story]

Tigers announce Hoops for Hygiene

Posted: November 17, 2009

The Edwardsville Tiger boys’ basketball team is tipping off the 2009-10 season with a “Hoops for Hygiene” collection to benefit the Glen-Ed Pantry and the Children’s Museum in Edwardsville. [Full Story]

Recycling spreads to baseball fields

Posted: November 17, 2009

When baseball fans visit the Edwardsville High School Sports Complex next spring they’ll be asked to do something completely different: recycle their bottles and cans at one of five recycling stations that will be placed near the bleachers and concession stands. [Full Story]

District 7 announces new online course selection at EHS

Posted: November 13, 2009

Plans are underway to launch online course selection at Edwardsville High School for the 2010-11 school year. Students, under the supervision of their guidance counselors, will have the opportunity to enroll in 2010-11 courses from November 30 - December 8, 2009. [Press Release] · [Full Story]

EHS course selection goes online

Posted: November 13, 2009

Beginning this month, Edwardsville High School (EHS) students will have the opportunity to select their 2010-11 courses online. Plans are in the works to launch a new online course selection process at EHS for the 2010-11 school year. [Full Story]

Dr. Ed Hightower addresses the challenges District 7 faces in keeping senseless violence out of our schools

Posted: November 10, 2009

I have had the pleasure over the past several weeks of visiting with all of our high school and middle school students and all District 7 teachers. The purpose of my visits was to establish a dialogue with students and teachers regarding some of the violent and other inappropriate behaviors we are witnessing from students across the country as well as the lack of respect, tolerance, and civility we continue to witness from our politicians, entertainers, and athletes.  [Full Story] · [Presentation]

District implements online course selection for EHS

Posted: November 10, 2009

[Presentation]

Proposed middle school baseball

Posted: November 10, 2009

[Presentation]

Tax levy review and preliminary levy discussion

Posted: November 10, 2009

[Presentation]

Woodland students rap for health

Posted: November 10, 2009

As the H1N1 virus continues to spread across the U.S., one of the primary ways to protect yourselves and your children from catching this bug is to keep your hands clean and germ free. No one more than elementary teachers knows how difficult a task it can be to keep children’s hands germ free, but Woodland Elementary third grade teacher Heather Chapman has found a fun way to reinforce this health-conscious practice.   [Full Story]

Two teachers earn Emerson awards

Posted: November 3, 2009

The Edwardsville High School Marching Tigers Band and two District 7 teachers were recognized at Monday night’s District 7 Board of Education meeting.  [Full Story]

District 7 presents ISAT Results

Posted: October 26, 2009

In a report to the District 7 Board of Education, Superintendent Ed Hightower provided the details of District 7 student performance on the 2009 Illinois Standards Achievement Test at its regular Board meeting. [Full Story]

District 7 marks Red Ribbon Week

Posted: October 29, 2009

There was a sea of red shirts at Woodland Elementary’s Monday morning meeting. No, it wasn’t a Cardinals' day celebration. The students and staff were showing their support for the kick-off of the district’s Red Ribbon Week. Similar displays of support and activities are planned throughout the Edwardsville District 7 schools this week. [Full Story]

District scores well on ISAT

Posted: October 29, 2009

Edwardsville District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower provided the details of the students’ performance on the 2009 Illinois Standards Achievement Test (ISAT) at the Board of Education meeting Monday night. [Full Story]

Board recognizes October’s Good Employee Award winners, the 2009 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winners, and the Edwardsville High School Marching Band team

Posted: October 28, 2009

Click here to view the full story.

EGHM Foundation elects new Executive Board

Posted: October 28, 2009

The EGHM Foundation elected its 2009-10 Executive Board at its annual meeting. Joe Gugger was elected Board President to replace the retiring John Fruit, who served as Board President for 14 years. The remaining Executive Board members are Gordon Broom, Vice President; Dennis Terry, Treasurer; and John Motley, Secretary.

The EGHM Foundation was established in the late 1970’s by the late John Hunter, Jr., for the sole purpose of supporting Edwardsville Community Unit School District 7. Mr. Hunter was a long-time Board of Education member and president of the school board. The foundation, a not-for-profit, 501(c)3 organization, is made up of individuals who are business and community leaders from throughout District 7. [Full Story]

Butterflies, students grow together

Posted: October 22, 2009

In 2001, two teachers at Leclaire Elementary School began a butterfly and hummingbird garden on the western side of the building in conjunction with its annual fine arts fair. [Full Story]

Dogs can do more than just be pets

Posted: October 16, 2009

Woodland Elementary’s third grade students learned how dogs can be more than just pets the past few weeks when two different guests visited the students. [Full Story]

Board recognizes students' efforts

Posted: October 15, 2009

Liberty Middle School’s Softball team and the October Do The Right Thing Award winners were recognized at Tuesday’s Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education meeting. [Full Story]

Board recognizes October’s Do the Right Thing Award winners and the Liberty Middle School girls softball team

Posted: October 15, 2009

The Liberty Middle School girls softball team participated in the IESA (Illinois Elementary School Association) state softball tournament during the weekend of September 25 and 26. The girls won third place in the tournament and finished their season with 22 wins and 2 losses. The team was coached by Head Coach Corrie Lau and Assistant Coach RyAnn Spann.

EHS Royalty

Posted: October 6, 2009

Tiffini Hyatt and Kareem Lahai-Pumagoi were named Homecoming Queen and King during coronation ceremonies Saturday at Edwardsville High School. [Full Story]

Violence on bus discussed

Posted: October 1, 2009

Edwardsville District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower offered his thoughts about the recent Belleville West school bus incident and announced proactive steps the district is taking to avoid this behavior within the district. He also reported on the status of the district’s budget at Monday's Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education meeting.  [Full Story]

Graffiti will decorate EHS gym

Posted: October 1, 2009

Senior art student Lindsey Bailey couldn’t be happier to serve as the project manager for this year’s Edwardsville High School homecoming backdrop artwork.  The theme, "City Rhythm," will feature one of her favorite artistic styles: graffiti.  [Full Story]

District 7 student drop-off and pick-up procedures for all home football games

Posted: September 30, 2009

Click here to view the procedures.

Canada a finalist for state honor

Posted: September 25, 2009

Columbus Elementary fifth grade teacher Rob Canada was named as one of 10 finalists Tuesday from among nearly 175 nominations for the 2009-10 Illinois Teacher of the Year. [Full Story]

Two teachers in area in running for Teacher of Year

Posted: September 23, 2009

SPRINGFIELD - Teachers from Edwardsville and Brussels are among the 10 finalists for the 2009-2010 Illinois Teacher of the Year, the Illinois State Board of Education announced Tuesday. The finalists, representing schools across the state, are selected from nominees through ISBE's "Those Who Excel" educator recognition program. [Full Story]

Local teacher among finalists for state honor

Posted: September 23, 2009

On behalf of the District 7 Board of Education, employees, and students, I want to extend a hearty congratulations to Columbus Elementary fifth grade teacher Rob Canada, who was named today as one of the ten finalists for the 2009-10 Illinois Teacher of the Year. Rob is an outstanding teacher and individual, who represents District 7’s outstanding faculty and staff with distinction.  [Full Story]

Sun shines on EHS South

Posted: September 21, 2009

District 7 took a giant step forward into the renewable energy field Thursday when it turned on the switch of its first solar panel system at a dedication ceremony on the EHS South campus, located across the street from the main high school. The Edwardsville School District, Life Line Energy, Day & Night Solar and Ameren have teamed up to install a 10 by 10 photovoltaic (PV) system array on the south side of EHS South in close proximity to the District 7 Sports Complex and the greenhouse facility.  [Full Story]

Marching Tigers to host competition

Posted: September 21, 2009

An estimated 4,000 to 5,000 people are expected to visit the EHS Sports Complex over the weekend as 23 bands are scheduled to compete in the second annual Tiger Ambush Classic marching band competition. [Full Story]

State budget woes haunt District 7

Posted: September 17, 2009

Edwardsville District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower reported that the state’s inability to finalize its 2009-2010 budget continues to keep the district from finalizing its own 2009-2010 budget. [Full Story]

Liberty Cheerleaders Participate in 19th Annual Wag-n-Walk

Posted: September 17, 2009

The Liberty Middle School Cheerleaders participated in the 19th Annual Wag-n-Walk to benefit the Metro East Humane Society on Saturday, September 12, 2009. The cheerleaders raised almost $600 for the cause.

 

Students sing National Anthem

Posted: September 15, 2009

Woodland Elementary students celebrated the anniversary of our National Anthem by performing a school-wide rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner" during the school’s morning meeting Monday.  [Full Story]

Sixth graders get set for Welcome Night

Posted: September 10, 2009

Liberty Middle School will officially welcome their new sixth grade students Friday night during the Seventh Annual Sixth Grade Welcome Night. The event, a prevention program, takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Liberty and is for Liberty’s sixth grade students only. Lincoln Middle School will host an identical Sixth Grade Welcome for its students on Sept. 25.  [Full Story]
 

District 7 proactive with health concerns

Posted: September 2, 2009

Although the first case of Swine Flu (the H1N1 strain of influenza) was reported in the Alton School District on Monday, Edwardsville District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower reported Tuesday that no cases of Swine Flu had been reported within District 7 yet. [Full Story]
 

LMS softballers go to bat for autism

Posted: September 1, 2009

Liberty Middle School’s softball team put their bats to the test in a recent home run derby fundraiser to raise awareness and money for Autism Speaks. [Full Story]
 

Heart Association honors District 7

Posted: September 1, 2009

The American Heart Association (AHA) honored District 7 as the top fundraising school district in the Southwestern Illinois Region at the District 7 Board of Education meeting Monday. [Full Story]

 

District 7 enrollment climbs again

Posted: August 27, 2009

Although the first semester's official sixth day enrollment figures for District 7 schools were finalized Tuesday, Superintendent of Schools Ed Hightower reported fifth day figures at the Board of Education meeting Monday and commented about the start of school. Other board action included approval of the new substitute teacher policy and audit results of the 2008-09 school year. The 2009-10 total district enrollment figures as of Monday were 7,583 students while last year’s sixth day total enrollment was 7,561 students. [Full Story]

 

Jon Davis Wrestling Center dedicated

Posted: August 25, 2009

There was a dinner, there were speeches and there were tours over the two-day dedication of the Jon Davis Wrestling Center, but the big black mat silently covering the floor is what this facility is really all about. [Full Story]

 

Board looks to new year

Posted: August 14, 2009

As District 7 prepares for the opening of school next week, the Board of Education met Monday night and received updates on the status of opening day as well as learned of a new qualification procedure process for substitute teachers. [Full Story]

Jon Davis Wrestling Center nears completion

Posted: August 13, 2009

Superintendent Hightower Warns of Door-to-Door Sales Scams, Survey Scams

Posted: July 31, 2009

 

Solar energy system eyed

Posted: July 29, 2009

Ed Hightower, superintendent of district 7 schools, announced at the last school board meeting that the District would be pursuing grant money to install a small working solar energy system at EHS South. The system will offer the opportunity for the high school students to learn about this emerging technology. [Full Story]

Lewis & Clark Community College to offer sports physicals in District 7

Posted: July 28, 2009

Lewis & Clark Community College’s Nurse Managed Center’s Mobile Health Unit will come to District 7 later this month to provide school and sports physicals for local students. [Flyer] - [More info]

District 7 ready for registrations

Posted: July 14, 2009

As summer begins to wind down, the start of school is right around the corner which means it's about time for students to register who plan to attend District 7 public schools.. [Full story]

St. Jude salutes volunteers, partners

Posted: July 13, 2009

The ALSAC/St. Jude Boards of Directors and Governors saluted more than a dozen dedicated volunteers, donors, organizations and corporate partners June 12, recognizing their commitment to the lifesaving mission of St. Jude. [Full story]

Board waits for state payments

Posted: June 19, 2009

As Edwardsville District 7 awaits state aid payments and anticipated state funding, the Board of Education approved both a temporary and permanent transfer of monies from its cash reserves at Monday night’s meeting. [Full story]

Board recognizes Waldo, Alpha Nu

Posted: June 19, 2009

Edwardsville High School Basketball Coach Mike Waldo, the EHS Softball team and the Alpha Nu chapter of the Alpha Delta Kappa sorority were all recognized at the Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education meeting Monday night. [Full story]

573 graduates move forward

Posted: June 19, 2009

The Edwardsville High School class of 2009 went the distance.

On Saturday, 573 members of the class entered their beloved Lucco-Jackson Gym to the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance” and exited to the sounds of the “Midway March” with their high school diplomas in hand. [Full story]

Math tests for new district students set

Posted: June 9, 2009

Math and writing placement testing for middle school students who will be new to District 7 for the 2009-10 school year have been scheduled for June 11 and July 8. [Full story]

At the top of the Class of 2009

Posted: June 8, 2009

Valedictorians Alex Litzau and Jonathan Westbrook and salutatorians Jordan Halfman and Michael Lynch will take center stage Saturday at the 2009 Edwardsville High School graduation ceremony. [Full story]

EHS hosts Senior Awards Night

Posted: June 8, 2009

Edwardsville High School hosted the 2009 Senior Awards Night on Wednesday, May 20, 2009. This year, EHS recognized 130 individual students who received 75 different awards, totaling more than $100,000. [Full story] - [Photo Gallery]

Placement Testing Scheduled for Middle School Students New to District 7

Posted: June 4, 2009

All current District 7 middle school students take math placement tests at the end of each school year; all seventh and eighth grade students take the writing placement test as well. Students who will be new to District 7 for the 2009-10 school year are required to take these tests in the summer months prior to the beginning of school.[more info]

EHS prepares for 2009 graduation

Posted: June 4, 2009

The strains of "Pomp and Circumstance" sounded so good last year in Lucco-Jackson Gym they'll be heard again this year. On Saturday, Edwardsville High School will conduct graduation ceremonies beginning at 3 p.m. [Full Story]

EHS produces class full of lifesavers

Posted: June 3, 2009

When the freshman class of Edwardsville High School (EHS) completes their first year of high school this week, they’ll all be beginning summer vacation with a life saving skill. They will all be certified in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and have the ability to save someone’s life thanks to the efforts of an Edwardsville police officer’s belief in teaching CPR 15 years ago. [Full Story]

Students serve up pancakes, smiles

Posted: June 3, 2009

Liberty and Lincoln Middle School’s G.O. students spent Saturday morning serving pancakes and smiles at their first ever pancake breakfast at the Main Street Community Center in downtown Edwardsville as part of its intergenerational program. [Full Story]

Journalism students make mark

Posted: May 19, 2009

Edwardsville High School journalism students entered the IHSA State Journalism Competition for the first time this year. Although new to the competition, the EHS team certainly demonstrated that EHS will be a major contender. [Full Story]

School board honors teachers, students

Posted: May 13, 2009

The May Do The Right Thing Awards and a special awards presentation for the ConocoPhilips Teacher of the Year Award were the highlights of the Monday night Board of Education meeting. Dr. Lynda Andre, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, began the meeting by announcing the May Do The Right Thing award winners. [Full Story]

EHS junior wins science award

Posted: May 13, 2009

Edwardsville High School junior Luke Bertels has been considering his options for college as many other juniors are doing right now. [Full Story]

Forty-six EHS seniors recognized at Silver Medallion Banquet

Posted: May 8, 2009

Forty-six Edwardsville High School seniors were honored at the 21st annual Silver Medallion Academic Excellence Awards at Lewis & Clark Community College on Thursday, April 30. EHS is one of twenty area high schools participating in the program. Only the top 8% in each graduating class receive the Silver Medallion Award. [Full Story] - [Photo Gallery]

Miller set for swan song after 35 years

Posted: May 11, 2009

When District 7 schools close next month for the summer, Liberty Middle School will be losing a "gem".  After 35 years of teaching, 20 of which have been within the District 7 schools, music teach Jan Miller will be retiring. [Full Story]

EHS WYSE team continues winning tradition

Posted: May 8, 2009

Each year at Edwardsville High School, the brightest 14 juniors and seniors compete in a national program called WYSE (Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering) that allows them to compete in several academic areas with students across the state. The EHS WYSE team has been very successful in the past, advancing to the state level for the past 12 years. [Full Story]

Eighth graders prepare for Celebration

Posted: May 8, 2009

Liberty and Lincoln Middle School eighth graders will be coming together one last time Friday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Lincoln Middle School for the 12th Annual Eighth Grade Celebration. [Full Story]

Senior candidate for Presidential Scholar

Posted: May 7, 2009

An Edwardsville High School student who attained a perfect score on his ACT was named as a candidate in the Presidential Scholars program. Jordan Halfman, a graduating senior at Edwardsville High School, was named one of more than 3,000 candidates in the 2009 program. [Full Story]

EHS softball’s Think Pink fundraiser nets nearly $2000

Posted: May 5, 2009

The Edwardsville High School softball team sponsored a challenge fundraiser for the Friends of Hope Breast Diagnostic Center at Anderson Hospital on Tuesday, April 28, 2009. The Tigers hosted conference rival O’Fallon Panthers in a “Pink Out” game for breast cancer. The Lady Tigers won the game 4-3 and raised nearly $2000 in the process.

Coach Lori Blade said that the team was happy to help raise money for such a worthy cause. “It’s another opportunity for us to give back to the community,” Blade said.

Fans could choose between two ways to contribute to the fundraiser: they could donate a set amount, or they could accept the Coach Blade Challenge, which established a donation of $5 per hit and or $5 dollars per strikeout.  [Photo Gallery]

District recognizes students, employees

Posted: May 5, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education recognized April’s Good Employee Award winners; All State participants in band, orchestra, and chorus; 2009 District 7 Spelling Bee winners; and Toshiba Exploravision winners at its April 27, 2009, board meeting.

Edwardsville High School had 17 students selected for the all-state level in orchestra, band, and choir, including a record number who made the all-state choir. Students auditioned at the IMEA district festival; selection was based on state-wide competition.[Full Story]

Four honored for ExploraVision participation

Posted: May 4 2009

The auto-grow flower pot, a solar powered microwave, and an automatic language interpreter – these are just a few of the creative innovations that several District 7 elementary challenge students envisioned for the future.

The students imagined these amazing advancements in science and technology as part of their participation in the Toshiba ExploraVision program. Four students from Worden Elementary received a regional honorable mention award for their Life Saving Calendar. [Full Story]

H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Information

Posted: May 1 2009

I am sure you have been following the outbreak of H1N1 Influenza, also known as swine flu. The Board of Education and administration want to take a proactive approach to this issue by providing information regarding diagnosis and treatment of swine flu as well as steps to take to prevent infection.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines swine flu as a respiratory disease of pigs caused by Type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks in pigs. People don’t normally get swine flu, but infections can and do happen. It is important to note that swine flu is NOT transmitted by eating pork; it is reported to spread from person-to-person. [Letter]

A learning experience for everyone

Posted: May 1 2009

Liberty and Lincoln Middle School GO/FIT students have travelled over to Meridian Village every Monday after school this school year to interact and engage in activities with the residents as part of an intergenerational program.
[Full Story]

EHS Journalists Shine at IHSA Sectional Tournament

Posted: April 30 2009

The Edwardsville High School Journalism Team made its presence felt at the 2009 IHSA Sectional Tournament on Saturday at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. In its first appearance at the tournament, the nine-member team claimed Third Place in the Team Sweepstakes, tying Herrin High School with a score of 41. Eight EHS students advanced to the state tournament.

While it was only the team’s first competition, the Journalism Team performed admirably in individual categories with two First Place finishes (Christina Reznack, Newspaper Design; Danielle Kinnison, Review Writing), two Second Place finishes (Feature Photography, Grant Westhoff; Editorial Cartooning, Sydney Maples) and four Third Place prizes (Yearbook Copy Writing, Ashley Luer; Editorial Writing, Christina Reznack, and Yearbook Theme: Olivia Hopkins and Tara Kulash). Each student who placed within a category advances to the State Tournament held at Eastern Illinois University on Friday, May 1, 2009. [Full Story]

EHS Alumni Art Show scheduled for Edwardsville Arts Center

Posted: April 30 2009

The Edwardsville High School Alumni Art Show will be held at the Edwardsville Arts Center, 310 Hillsboro, Edwardsville, from May 8 through June 27. The exhibit will showcase the works of graduates from the classes of 1942 – 2009. It includes 36 artists and 42 works of art. [more...]

EHS Class of 2009 presents gift

Posted: April 30 2009

The 2009 Edwardsville High School senior class officers were present at Monday’s District 7 Board of Education meeting to present their 2009 class gift. Linda Shermer, one of the 2009 class sponsors, noted the many accomplishments of the class officers, before pointing out that Class President Leo Murphy and Vice President Kevin Pekkarinen provided much levity to the group. [Full Story]

EHS hosts 1st annual PC Mod Championships

Posted: April 30 2009

More than forty Metro East area high school students participated in the 1st annual EHS PC Mod Championships on Friday, April 24, 2009. A total of nine computers were displayed by teams representing Edwardsville, Alton and Granite City high schools.

EHS technology teacher and competition coordinator Dene Schickedanz said that the PC Mod Championship was a huge success. “The kids had a great time. PC modding is one of the few opportunities that technology students who work with hardware have to be creative. This was a great first year, and we hope to expand the competition to schools throughout the state in the future,” Schickedanz said. [Full Story]

District 7 Offers Parent Workshop: How to Grow Your Child’s Vocabulary Skills

Posted: April 29 2009

On Tuesday, May 19, 2009, District 7 speech and language therapists will conduct a parent workshop entitled How to Grow Your Child’s Vocabulary Skills. The workshop, which is targeted for parents of children in preK-2, will include information relevant to improving a child’s vocabulary.

The National Reading Panel comprehensive report Teaching Children to Read states that the importance of vocabulary knowledge has long been recognized in the development of reading skills. Research shows that growth in reading power means continuous growth in word knowledge.

Please join us for this informational event on Tuesday, May 19, 2009, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the EHS Media Center. Please register by contacting Sandrarae Hyatt at 618-656-1182 or shyatt@ecusd7.org. - [Flyer]

Edwardsville High School inducts 163 students in National Honor Society

Posted: April 27, 2009

Edwardsville High School inducted 163 juniors and seniors into the National Honor Society on Wednesday, April 15, 2009, in a ceremony in the Edwardsville High School auditorium.

 
The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since their beginnings in 1921 and 1929.

Superintendent Ed Hightower applauds the efforts and achievement of the students earning NHS recognition. “Students who achieve National Honor Society membership have to do more than just earn good grades. They need to be well-rounded students who are leaders in school and in the community. They and their parents should be proud of their accomplishments. The Board, administration, and faculty certainly are,” Hightower said
[Full Story] -  [Slideshow]

EBTC helps celebrate Arbor Day

Posted: April 27 2009

The Edwardsville Beautification and Tree Commission (EBTC) celebrated Arbor Day with a tree planting at two local schools on Friday. The first tree planting was at Liberty Middle School at 8:30 a.m. and the second was at Leclaire Elementary at 10 a.m.
[Full Story]

Students enjoy a day of dairy fun

Posted: April 24, 2009

The “Dairy Fully Fueled” Tour rolled into Lincoln Middle School Tuesday as part of the 20th Annual Celebrate Sober Program for seventh grade students. Celebrate Sober was founded on the belief that every person can make sound decisions regarding life’s choices and behaviors when provided with factual information. In an effort to convey the facts, seventh grade students spend the week participating in a variety of workshops on alcohol, tobacco, drugs, stress management, communication, leadership and personal safety issues. [Full Story]
 

EHS fine arts benefit raises $5000 for senior citizens

Posted: April 23, 2009

On Wednesday, April 22, 2009, faculty and students representing the Edwardsville High School Fine Arts Department presented representatives from the Edwardsville Main Street Center (formerly the Edwardsville Senior Citizen Center) with a check for $5000. The check represented the proceeds from the EHS Fine Arts Celebration, a benefit performance conducted by EHS fine arts students for the Center on April 17, 2009, at Edwardsville High School.  [Press Release] - [Photo Gallery]

Middle schoolers set for Spring Fling

Posted: April 23, 2009

Sixth and seventh graders from Liberty and Lincoln middle schools will come together Friday at Lincoln Middle School from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. for the 21st annual Spring Fling. The event, hosted by Liberty and Lincoln’s Prevention Program, provides the students with an opportunity to spend an evening together dancing and participating in a variety of activities. [Full Story]

Recycling effort grows

Posted: April 22, 2009

The Main Street Community Center expanded its role in the community’s recycling efforts on Monday. The Center announced its plans to partner with Cassens Elementary, Madison County and St. John’s United Methodist Church on multiple recycling projects. [Full Story]

The evolution of a sports complex

Posted: April 20, 2009

This is the second part of a three-part series on the evolution of the District 7 Sports Complex. Look for the third and final part in the Monday, April 19, edition of the Edwardsville Intelligencer. With 49 acres of land and the support of the Edwardsville community, in 1981 it was time to begin designing a state of the art sports complex. [Full Story]

Board receives financial update

Posted: April 20, 2009

Superintendent Ed Hightower gave a report Monday night at the Board of Education meeting on the status of the state’s budget and stimulus funding as well as an update on the financial issues the state of Illinois faces. [Full Story]

ADA names Columbus Elementary 1st quarter VIP school

Posted: April 20, 2009

The St. Louis Area American Diabetes Association named Columbus Elementary School as their 1st quarter VIP school for raising more than $4600 in their School Walk for Diabetes. Physical education teacher Linda Nota is the coordinator of this annual event.

Columbus was the top fundraising school in the St. Louis area for the first quarter. More than 360 students participated in the walk, which took place from February 25-27.

Evolution of a complex

Posted: April 17, 2009

When the celebrated success of the Edwardsville Tiger sports programs are discussed, credit goes to excellent coaching and talented athletes, which is well warranted. But there is also a key element that gets taken for granted — the District 7 Sports Complex. [Full Story]

Liberty student wins Scholar Attitude Award

Posted: April 16, 2009

Liberty Middle School eighth grader Ariane Wright has been selected as an Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA) Scholar Attitude Winner. She has been chosen as an individual who exhibits the superior standards and positive character representative of our youth today.

The IESA is a not-for-profit organization of 744 public and private elementary, middle, and junior high schools. The IESA is the nation's only organization of its kind for students in grades five-eight. The IESA provides opportunities for participation and recognition in five sports for boys, five sports for girls, and five non-athletic activities. The web site is www.iesa.org [Full Story]

District 7 offers parent workshop: Unlocking the mystery of speech articulation

Posted: April 16, 2009

On Tuesday, April 21, 2009, District 7 Speech and Language Pathologists are offering a parent workshop entitled Unlocking the Mystery of Speech Articulation. The workshop is targeted for parents of children in grades preK-5.

As parents anticipate the development of their children’s important verbal milestones, such as their first spoken words or initial reading attempts with favored books, they can experience a variety of emotions ranging from excitement to anxiety. One of the most common concerns that parents voice involves their child’s inability to effectively articulate speech sounds.

This workshop will help provide parents with an increased understanding of the human development of speech sounds, important therapeutic approaches that parents can implement at home to improve sound development, and the role of a speech and language pathologist within the educational setting.

The event will take place on Tuesday, April 21, from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. at the Edwardsville High School Media Center. Please register by contacting Sandrarae Hyatt at 618-656-1182 or shyatt@ecusd7.org. [Flyer]

Edwardsville High School earns Jostens national yearbook design recognition

Posted: April 15, 2009

Edwardsville High School’s yearbook, the Tiger, has been recognized for excellence. The cover of the 2008 Tiger is featured in the 2009 Gotcha Covered Look Book. Published annually by yearbook leader Jostens, the Look Book features yearbook spreads and covers from across the country. The Gotcha Covered Look Book is a popular reference guide for yearbook advisers and staffs seeking creative design and coverage ideas, trends, and inspiration. [Full story]

District recognizes students, employees

Posted: April 14, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education recognized April’s Do the Right Thing Award winners, the EHS Winter Guard, and the EHS Drum Line at its April 13, 2009, board meeting.

The Edwardsville High School Winter Drum Line and Winter Color Guard competed at the Mid-Continent Color Guard Association (MCCGA) Championships at Ozark and Willard High Schools in Springfield, MO, during the last weekend in March. The Winter Color Guard competed in the Scholastic C Class and finished in second place. The Winter Drum Line finished its season undefeated in its class.  [Full Story]

EHS students study Constitution in battle against ignorance

Posted: April 14, 2009

In order to form a more perfect union, students at Edwardsville High School are seriously exercising their right to assemble with energy and determination.  And their minds are in pretty good shape in terms of understanding the relevance of the U.S. Constitution. [Full Story]

EHS Fine Arts Benefit

Posted: April 14, 2009

District 7’s Edwardsville High School Fine Arts Department will once again host a benefit performance for the Edwardsville Main Street Center, formerly known as the Edwardsville Senior Citizens Center. This year’s show, the EHS Fine Arts Celebration, will be held on April 17, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. in the EHS auditorium and commons. [Full Story] - [Flyer]

Pair reaches Illinois Geographic Bee

Posted: April 6, 2009

If someone asked you the following question, would you know the answer? “Approximately 40 percent of the population still lives below the poverty line despite an oil and gas boom in which country where Baku is the capital? [Full Story]

Liberty students learn to appreciate differences

Posted: April 6, 2009

Most people would attest that the middle school years can be difficult. But Liberty Middle School is taking steps to help make these years less stressful while at the same time teaching the students important diversity lessons. [Full Story]

Winter drum line, color guard compete at MCCGA championships

Posted: April 3, 2009

The Edwardsville High School Winter Drum Line and Winter Color Guard competed last weekend at the Mid-Continent Color Guard Association (MCCGA) Championships at Ozark and Willard High Schools in Springfield, Mo.

The MCCGA is a winter color guard and percussion circuit serving independent and scholastic guards and percussion lines from Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Iowa. Now entering its 15th year, the MCCGA offers an educational and competitive arena where young adults learn character building, confidence, and professional skills for a lifetime.

The Winter Color Guard competed in the Scholastic C Class and finished in second place. The Winter Drum Line finished its season undefeated in its class. Each group performed at four regional contests prior to the championships: Eureka High school, O’Fallon High School, Rockwood Summit High School, and Frances Howell North High School. [Press Release]

Kindergarten registration dates added

Posted: April 3, 2009

District 7 will conduct two additional days of registration for incoming kindergarten students for the 2009-10 school year.

Registration will be held in each of the primary buildings on April 15 and April 23, 2009, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Two evening sessions will be conducted on the same dates at Hadley House, 708 St. Louis Street, Edwardsville, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. in the Board room.

The registration process is conducted on a drop-in basis and takes approximately one hour. Parents should choose a time most convenient for them, but no appointment is required. In addition, parents should bring to registration a certified copy of their child’s birth certificate and two proofs of residency (e.g., driver’s license and recent utility bill).

At registration, parents will receive the schedule for Kindergarten Informational Nights, which are currently being conducted.

Parents may contact Cathie Wright, Coordinator of Early Childhood & Elementary Education, at 655-6021, or cwright@ecusd7.org for further information.

District recognizes students, employees

Posted: April 1, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education recognized the St. Cecilia’s Knights of Columbus, students, and employees at its March 23, 2009, board meeting. The groups included the March Good Employee Award winners and District 7 Young Authors county and state representatives. [Full Story]

District 7 had perfect timing

Posted: March 25, 2009

At the District 7 Board of Education meeting Monday night, Mary Kane, vice president of Stifel Nicolaus, presented a status report as to the impact of the faltering economy on the $58.3 million bond issue that taxpayers approved in 2007 to build the new schools.

Kane’s presentation focused on two primary questions: Is the district better off for having voted yes and issued debt in 2007? And, is the district prepared financially to address future challenges associated with the downturn in the economy? [Full Story]

EHS fine arts department to host Main Street Center benefit

Posted: March 25, 2009

District 7’s Edwardsville High School Fine Arts Department will once again host a benefit performance for the Edwardsville Main Street Center, formerly known as the Edwardsville Senior Citizens Center. This year’s show, the EHS Fine Arts Celebration, will be held on April 17, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. in the EHS auditorium and commons.  [Full Story] - [Flyer]

Students see Vision of Hope

Posted: March 23, 2009

Tiffany Conover’s fifth grade students at Albert Cassens Elementary had an eye-opening experience last week when Andrew Phiri visited their classroom. After listening to Andrew explain about daily life in South Africa, the students walked away from the presentation with a new appreciation of how fortunate they are to live in the U.S. and how very difficult life is in Zambia, Africa.  [Full Story]

District 7 Superintendent of Schools Ed Hightower outlines the Board of Education’s plan to address budget shortfalls caused by the faltering economy

Posted: March 20, 2009

It is impossible for anyone to escape the realities of the economic downturn – the impact is seen nationally, locally, at the state level, and for many people, at a personal level. Our school district is no exception.  [Full Story]

Fredbird promotes positive lifestyles

Posted: March 19, 2009

There may have been a lot of green worn Tuesday for St. Patrick’s Day, but the majority of Albert Cassens Elementary School students and teachers were wearing red – St. Louis Cardinal red to be exact. [Full Story]

District recognizes students, employees

Posted: March 16, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education recognized students and employees at its March 9, 2009, board meeting. The groups included March Do the Right Thing Award winners, student athletes and coaches from the EHS Lady Tigers basketball team, the EHS boys swim team, the EHS Wrestling Team, and the math teams from EHS and Lincoln and Liberty Middle Schools. [Full Story]

Keeping track of every dollar

Posted: March 16, 2009

NOTICE: This is the final article in a series that looks back over the past couple of years at the accomplishments of the District 7 Board of Education and ahead to the anticipated challenges it faces. The day-to-day business operations, the working relationships with government entities and officials, and the financing of the school district are all critically important areas and the focus of today’s final article. [Full Story]

Hightower answers Pashea

Posted: March 11, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education meeting Monday night was filled with congratulatory moments as several organizations were honored in addition to the Do The Right Thing award winners.  The meeting's atmosphere changed quickly to one of seriousness and sometimes frustration when visitors spoke about the proposed budget cuts and the board made some tough decisions to revise the district’s three-year financial plan that included approximately $1.3 million of reductions to balance the 2009-10 budget. [Full Story]

Congratulations to the Young Authors 2009 State and County representatives from Liberty Middle School

Posted: March 9, 2009

District 7 students view rare collection honoring Abraham Lincoln’s 200th Birthday

Posted: March 6, 2009

On Thursday, February 26, students from social studies classes at Liberty and Lincoln Middle Schools and Edwardsville High School viewed the unique and rare collection of historical documents representing the life and career of Abraham Lincoln on display at TheBANK of Edwardsville’s Main Office lobby in downtown Edwardsville.

TheBANK of Edwardsville and the Madison County Bar Association joined together to sponsor the exhibit, “A. Lincoln Bicentennial,” in honor of the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. The exhibit was on display throughout the month of February at TheBANK, and it has been extended to March 20.

A handwritten note by Lincoln, a newspaper article reporting his death, and a typewritten testimonial from a witness to Lincoln’s death are among the historical documents on display, which was created and installed by the staff of SIUE’s University Museum.

The display is open to the public during regular business hours, Monday – Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Proposed 2009-2010 District Calendar

Posted: February 25, 2009

Dr. Hightower presented the proposed calendar to the Board of Education on Monday, February 23, 2009. The Board is expected to approve the calendar at the next board meeting.  The proposed 2009-2010 district calendar can be viewed by clicking here.

Board examines school calendar

Posted: February 25, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education and Superintendent Ed Hightower presented the tentative 2009-10 school calendar for consideration at Monday’s meeting. [Full Story]

District recognizes students, employees

Posted: February 25, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education recognized students and employees at its February 23, 2009, board meeting. The groups included February’s Good Employee Award winners and the competition cheerleading squads from Edwardsville High School and Lincoln and Liberty Middle Schools.

The EHS varsity cheerleading squad competed in the first day of competition at the IHSA Cheer Finals in Bloomington on February 6. On February 13, the EHS junior varsity squad captured first place in the Large Junior Varsity category at the Illinois Cheerleading Coaches Association Championships in Springfield. The squads from Liberty and Lincoln Middle Schools finished fourth and sixth respectively in the Large Junior High category at the same competition.

District looks into shortfalls

Posted: February 24, 2009

District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower presented a plan to the Board of Education during Monday's meeting that will address projected funding shortfalls for the remainder of the 2008-09 and 2009-10 school years. Hightower’s presentation provided a status report on the current year’s budget and suggested a plan to reduce the 2009-10 budget by approximately $1.3 million to address possible funding shortfalls. [Full Story]

2008-2009 and 2009-2010 Plan to Address Budget Shortfalls

Posted: February 24, 2009

The Finance Committee met on December 15, 2008, and received a status update on the 2008-09 budget and began a review of the 2009-2010 budget.  [Presentation]

Update on Technology Projects and Funding

Posted: February 24, 2009

[Press Release]

Lessons from World War II

Posted: February 24, 2009

Lincoln Middle School students heard some personal experiences from two Battle of the Bulge veterans and got an up close look at World War II artifacts Friday. The veterans were a part of a presentation given by re-enactors from the 2nd Ranger Infantry Battalion of St. Louis. [full story]

District recognizes students, employees

Posted: February 20, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education recognized students and employees at its February 9, 2009, board meeting. The groups included January’s Good Employee Award winners and February’s Do the Right Thing Award winners.

The Board also recognized several Edwardsville High School students for their accomplishments. Senior Cody Clayton was presented a plaque honoring him for his 2009 IHSA State Bowling Championship, and sophomore Ryan Harrison and senior Halstead Coleman Selby were recognized for taking first and second place respectively in the Madison County Arts Council second annual regional Poetry Out Loud contest on Saturday, January 31. Micah Carter, Shannon Meckel, and Kayla Silvey were also recognized for their participation in the event.

District 7 takes on challenges

Posted: February 18, 2009

As part of a series in looking back at the District 7 Board of Education’s accomplishments over the past few years and challenges it has yet to face, this article focuses on academic progress, the strides that have been made to increase student achievement, changes in curriculum that have been made through data analysis and the partnerships the district has made along the way to provide academic opportunities for its students. [full story]

African-American history comes alive

Posted: February 17, 2009

The lives of three well-known African-American women – Phillis Wheatley, Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman – were brought to life at Lincoln Middle School Tuesday through renowned storyteller Loretta Washington. Washington took the students on a journey through the lives of the three prominent women enduring the eras of slavery and discrimination. [full story]

Liberty Math Team takes first

Posted: February 17, 2009

While most people were likely running errands on Feb. 7 and enjoying the warm weather, 10 Liberty Middle School students were very busy inside an SIUE classroom thinking, calculating and displaying their math skills. Liberty Middle School’s Math Team competed Feb. 7 in the St. Claire Chapter of the MathCounts Competition and placed first.  [full story]

Board recognizes top performances

Posted: February 10, 2009

It was a night of awards as the District 7 Board of Education recognized EHS regional poetry contest winners, IHSA Boys’ Bowling State Champion Cody Clayton, the January recipients of the “Good Employee” award, as well as the February “Do The Right Thing” student recipients at Monday’s meeting.  [full story]

Character Plus Parent Survey

Posted: January 6, 2009

Parents, please take a quick survey about your child’s school.  Click here for the Madison County CHARACTERplus Way™ Parent Survey.

 

Helping students achieve success

Posted: February 9, 2009

It is not surprising that the Edwardsville District 7’s high school graduation rate is very high. Nearly 96 percent of the 2008 Edwardsville High School (EHS) class graduated compared to the state average, which is approximately 77 percent. While most students at EHS graduate without any problems, the few students that do struggle get extra support to ensure their graduation by attending EHS South. [full story]

Board president stepping down

Posted: February 3, 2009

It’s difficult to think of the District 7 School Board without immediately envisioning its President James Speciale. But come April 13, the familiar face clad in his signature bow tie, will no longer be leading the school board as Speciale is retiring after 20 years of service to the community.  According to Speciale, the time was right for him to make the change. [full story]

New schools highlight progress

Posted: February 3, 2009

The District 7 Board of Education has had a busy couple of years. In the past 18 months alone, it has built two new schools, made major renovations and expansions to three others, implemented new communication tools, implemented an improved security systems and made enhancements to the athletic facilities. [full story]

Summer School Schedule and Registration Set

Posted: January 30, 2009

District 7 has set the schedule for 2009 Summer School. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on February 3, 2009, at Hadley House. Information and all forms are available online, at all District 7 schools, or at Hadley House. [full story]

Kindergarten Registration and Parent Information Nights Set

Posted: January 30, 2009

District 7 has scheduled 2009-10 registration for incoming kindergarten students. Registration will take place on Wednesday, March 11, 2009, from 12 noon-7:00 p.m. All kindergarten registration will be conducted at the school the child will attend in the fall. Children must be age 5 on or before September 1, 2009, to enter kindergarten in the 2009-10 school year. [full story]

Learning science in the kitchen

Posted: January 29, 2009

Students in Christine Anderson’s second grade classroom at Hamel Elementary enjoyed an ice cream treat last week after learning first how to make it themselves. The experiment was a part of their curriculum, Science in the Kitchen, which teaches the properties of matter. [full story]

District looks for slice of pie

Posted: January 29, 2009

As President Barack Obama gathers support from congressional leaders for his stimulus package in Washington, D.C., District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower has been busy developing and pitching a $30 million plan to legislators detailing exactly how the district could use stimulus funds. The end result could be money and jobs to the community.  [full story]

EHS to host IHSA cheerleading sectional

Posted: January 30, 2009

On Saturday, January 31, Edwardsville High School will play host to 58 teams in one of five cheerleading sectional competitions being held throughout the state.  [full story]

EHS Tiger-Cahokia basketball game moved

Posted: January 30, 2009

The boys varsity basketball game between the Edwardsville Tigers and the Cahokia Comanches originally scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, in Cahokia, has been moved to Edwardsville High School. The junior varsity game will begin at 6:00 p.m., with the varsity game following at 7:45 p.m.

Cahokia and the other members of the South Seven Conference will meet on Monday, February 2, to discuss safety measures at all schools after the shooting that occurred in the parking lot of Cahokia High School on Friday, January 23, 2009.

District 7 Superintendent Ed Hightower said that he supports the careful approach being taken by Cahokia and the other conference schools to resolve any outstanding safety issues. “We look forward to working with Cahokia by providing a venue in which our student-athletes can compete and where citizens from both communities can come to support their team,” Hightower said.  [press release]

Students share Dr. King’s spirit

Posted: January 22, 2009

Stacy Brase’s second grade students at Midway Elementary School spent last week learning about the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his “dream.” They also learned that they too could dream about making their country a better place. “We’d been talking about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. all week long leading up to his birthday,” Brase said. “We talked about his dream and how he wanted a world where his kids would be free of prejudice. We also read a story called the story of Dr. Martin Luther King.” [full story]

District 7 Launches Virtual Backpack and Weekly Web Updates

Posted: January 13, 2009

District 7 implemented the Virtual Backpack (see icon on the right), which is an alternate method of communicating with students, parents, and the public by posting information from non-profit organizations, intergovernmental agencies, and business partners. Letters, flyers, fundraiser notices, etc. will be posted on the District 7 web site as they are distributed in the District.

 

Postings will be organized by week, and all documents posted within the school year will remain accessible throughout the school year.

 

Groups wishing to distribute information must first email a completed District 7 Request to Distribute Materials form and a PDF of the flyer to Angie Bullard abullard@ecusd7.org at Hadley House at least two weeks prior to the desired posting date. Please read Distribution Guidelines prior to submitting a request.

 

Materials posted on this page are the responsibility of the organization represented, and endorsement by District 7 is neither direct nor implied.

 

District 7 has also launched a new email subscription list Weekly Web Updates that will allow subscribers to receive weekly updates on news on the District 7 web site. Parents and interested citizens may subscribe to receive a weekly email with highlights from the past week’s postings on the web site. [click here to subscribe]

 

District 7 outlines RtI compliance plans

Posted: January 13, 2009

The District 7 administration presented an update on the planning for the District’s Response to Intervention (RtI) plan, a requirement for all U.S. schools, to the Board of Education at its regular meeting tonight. According to Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum Dr. Lynda Andre and Student Services and Special Education Director Becky Kolda, implementation of RtI plans is required for all school districts beginning in the 2010-11 school year. [Press Release] · [Presentation]

Veterinary class gets board’s OK

Posted: January 15, 2009

The Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education approved the addition of an agriculture education course, Veterinary Technology, at Edwardsville High School for the 2009-10 school year at the board meeting Monday.

Having a strong focus on career exploration in the veterinary science field, the new course will assist students in expanding knowledge about the small animal industry, animal anatomy and physiology, and veterinary medicine. [full story]

Leclaire students make connections

Posted: January 6, 2009

Leclaire Elementary kindergarten students started off the new year learning some important life skills and studying about a famous children’s author at the same time.

Using the books of children’s author Jan Brett as a teaching tool, the kindergarten teachers spent last week talking about Brett, reading Brett’s books to the students and directing students to complete accompanying activities that the teachers developed to reinforce the books’ messages. [full story]

Board recognizes a trio of teachers

Posted: December 29, 2008

Three District 7 teachers – Judy Albus, Susan Short and Jon Parkin – were recognized at the Board of Education meeting last week for special achievements each had recently received. [full story]

 

Plans unveiled for wrestling facility

Posted: December 29, 2008

The District 7 Board of Education was presented at the Oct. 14 school board meeting with a proposed master plan for the District 7 Sports Complex that included a $3 million donation by the Edwardsville Wrestling Club to build a new wrestling/multi-purpose building within the sports complex. [full story]

New schools help end overcrowding

Posted: December 29, 2008

August, 19, 2008, will be remembered as day Edwardsville District 7 finally fell from the overcrowded-school ranks. [full story]

 

District 7 adds features to Web site

Posted: December 22, 2008

The District 7 Web site has two new features that both parents of District 7 students and those considering moving to the area will find beneficial. [full story]
 

2008-09 and 2009-10 Budget Summary Presentation

Posted: December 18, 2008

[Presentation]

District 7 forced to tweak budget

Posted: December 17, 2008

As economic uncertainties continue coupled with the quandaries in Illinois government, the District 7 Board of Education re-evaluated the remaining 2008-09 fiscal year budget as well as made some proactive budget recommendations for both the remaining school year and the 2009-10 school year. [full story]

Trio receives national certification

Posted: December 17, 2008

Three Edwardsville District 7 teachers were recognized at the Board of Education meeting Monday night. Mary Hunt and Kelly Dintelman of Liberty Middle School and Stacey Lipe of Lincoln Middle School recently received notification that they had completed all requirements for National Board Certification. [full story]

EHS Tiger Times wins Quill and Scroll George H. Gallup Award

Posted: December 16, 2008

Quill and Scroll awarded Edwardsville High School’s news publication, the Tiger Times, the George H. Gallup Award (Highest Honors) for its news media evaluation. In order to be considered for the George H. Gallup Award, a publication must earn at least 925 points, earn superior achievement in all five sections of the Scorebook, apply for Gallup consideration at the time of submission, and submit substantiating evidence. Out of 1,000 points, the Tiger Times earned 970.

Publication members attended the Journalism Education Association and National Scholastic Press Association’s Fall National High School Journalism Convention on November 13-16, 2008, in St. Louis, Missouri.

The Tiger Times holds membership in the National Scholastic Press Association, Illinois State Press Association, and Quill and Scroll. Publication members will be competing at the IHSA competition in April 2009 in Carbondale, Illinois.

 

Parents Will Be Contacted Using Emergency Broadcast System When Buses Are More Than 15 Minutes Late

Posted: December 9, 2008

On Monday, December 8, District 7 experienced issues with icy conditions in certain areas of the District. As is standard operating procedure, we sent several buses out at 3:00 a.m. to do test runs to check whether conditions would permit buses to run. Given that the buses on the test runs did not experience problems, the determination to hold school was made at 5:00 a.m. [Letter]

Becoming a "Cool City"

Posted: December 12, 2008

The city of Edwardsville may soon become an official “Cool City.”  Members of the local Sierra Club gave a presentation to the city’s Administrative and Community Services (ACS) Committee on Wednesday to explain how the city can participate in the Cool Cities initiative or adopt a plan to become more environmentally friendly. [more...]

Students learn Conscious Discipline

Posted: December 12, 2008

Students and teachers at Goshen Elementary School have been focusing on enhancing interpersonal relationship skills through the social emotional curriculum of Conscious Discipline. Children learn the skills needed to successfully manage life tasks such as forming relationships, communicating effectively, and getting along with others. [more...]

District upgrades alert system

Posted: December 10, 2008

Old Man Winter reminded us all on Monday what he can do with some precipitation, cold temperatures and a roadway. Well, almost all of us. Monday’s ice was hit and miss in the Edwardsville area, bad enough to cause 33 accidents in the city, but gone by mid-morning.  [more...]

Breakfast with Santa scheduled

Posted: December 1, 2008

Each December, Edwardsville High School’s varsity and junior varsity dance teams host a Breakfast with Santa located in the EHS cafeteria. Parents bring their kids to an eventful morning which includes food, dancing, singing, crafts and, of course, a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. [more]

EWC looks to the future — a new facility

Posted: December 1, 2008

The dreams of the Edwardsville Wrestling Club (EWC) finally became a reality on November 7. [more...]

Toys make science lesson more fun

Posted: December 1, 2008

Students in Kimberlee Jones’ first grade class at N.O. Nelson Elementary School are finding that typical toys from a toy box can make learning about science a lot of fun. [more...]

Writing Center proves its worth

Posted: December 1, 2008

Prior to the EHS Writing Center opening in the fall of 2007, the staff of English teachers at the high school felt there was a need to help students with their writing, one-on-one, outside of class in a non-threatening environment. Now that the writing center has been open for over a year, there’s data to support that there is a need and students are taking advantage of the extra support. [more...]

Board recognizes fall sports teams

Posted: December 1, 2008

The Edwardsville High School (EHS) athletics program had an incredible fall. Four of the eight fall sports earned Southwestern Conference titles and five of the eight brought home sectional titles. [more...]

E'ville girls cruise in Salem

Posted: November 25, 2008

After winning their first game over Olney on Friday, the Edwardsville Tigers rolled to two more victories on Saturday to easily win its pool in the 2008 Lady Wildcat Thanksgiving Tournament in Salem.  [more...]

Watershed brings great outdoors close to home

Posted: November 25, 2008

Students from Mrs. Brunworth's fifth grade class at Woodland Elementary school are visible through the trees exploring the trails at Watershed Nature Center.  [more...]

A second-grade civics lesson

Posted: November 24, 2008

Madison County Sheriff Robert Hertz talks about some of the duties of the Sheriff's Department to a courtroom filled with second graders from N.O. Nelson School during their visit to the Madison County Courthouse Friday. Photo by Marci Winters-McLaughlin.  [more...]

 

 

Columbus Elementary receives 2008 ADA Fundraising Award

Posted: November 17, 2008

Columbus Elementary School will be honored as the winner of the 2008 St. Louis American Diabetes Association Fundraising Award at the agency’s annual meeting tonight.  [more...]

EHS students perform at festival

Posted: November 14, 2008

One-hundred-and-three fine art students from Edwardsville High School and Lincoln and Liberty Middle Schools were selected to perform at the annual All-District Music Festival, which took place at Southern Illinois University Carbondale on Nov. 1. [more...]

EHS v-baller continues career

Posted: November 14, 2008

Thursday was a glorious day in the life of Edwardsville Tigers volleyball standout Kayla Fitterer.  [more...]

Students receive a patriotic lesson

Posted: November 13, 2008

On Monday, the fifth grade students at Columbus Elementary hosted their annual Veterans Day celebration parade. The 125 fifth-graders honored Edwardsville veterans during their 15th annual indoor parade featuring one-of-a-kind floats made by the fifth graders as they paid tribute to past and present members of the U.S. military. [more...]

Board recognizes accomplishments

Posted: November 13, 2008

It was another night of awards at the District 7 School Board meeting Monday night. The first half of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing several EHS sports teams and their accomplishments as well as Wal-Mart’s Teacher of the Year, Do The Right Thing Award winners, and the District’s November Good Employee Awards.  [more...]

District 7 tax levy remains steady

Posted: November 10, 2008

Dave Courtney, assistant superintendent of business operations for District 7, presented and reviewed the 2008 tax levy estimates at the District 7 Board of Education meeting Monday. The district is estimating that the 2008 levy rate will be $3.9086 which is slightly below the current 2007 rate of $3.9088. [more info...]

Ground broken at Complex

Posted: November 10, 2008

The first shovel of dirt was officially moved for the new wrestling and multipurpose facility at the District 7 Sports Complex at 9 a.m. Friday. District 7 and the Edwardsville Wrestling Club hosted the groundbreaking ceremony at the construction site across from the high school. The 23,000 square foot facility is being paid for through a $3.5 million donation by Mark and Carol Mestemacher and the Edwardsville Wrestling Club. [more info...]

Third graders’ government lesson comes from the top

Posted: November 10, 2008

Rob Nunn’s third grade class at Albert Cassens Elementary School found the recent election as a chance to step out of the textbook to learn about the community and government from government officials themselves. “Learning about government is really interesting,” Nunn said. “The officials who are elected have a large impact. The students are learning about the structure of a community and are gaining an understanding of the people who influence how a community operates.” [more info...]

Hamel Elementary School students celebrate Log Cabin Day

Posted: November 5, 2008

On October 28, 2008, all Hamel Elementary School students celebrated Log Cabin Day by participating in pioneer era activities that included a reenactment of Laura Ingalls Wilder from youth (Melissa Diaz) to adulthood (Susan Lybarger); a nature trail walk with Ms. Wilder; old-fashioned games; building log cabins out of milk cartons, pretzels, and icing; making butter; learning a square dance and songs; and visiting the Log Cabin Museum with Dr. Ted Frisbie, Professor Emeritus from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. The day culminated in an assembly showcasing each grade level and their songs or dances and was followed by a number of staff members square dancing.

Log Cabin Day is celebrated in honor of the Log Cabin Museum that is located on Hamel Elementary School grounds. The cabin originally stood 0.5 miles north of the current Anderson Hospital. It was build by the Bouse family between 1820 and 1852. The cabin is a basic pioneer structure consisting of a one room ground floor and a loft area. It was occupied by members of the Bouse and Love families.

In 1970 it was moved, intact, to the Hamel School site, an effort that was initiated and coordinated by former teacher, Steve Norris. In the 1990’s, Dr. Frisbie, along with a class from SIUE, created a museum of artifacts inside the cabin. In 1995, the cabin was re-dedicated as the Log Cabin Museum, complete with period artifacts and items donated by the original Love family descendants.

Hamel School students use the cabin as a historical teaching tool to study the 1800’s and pioneer life.

2008 School Report Cards

Posted: October 30, 2008

2008 School Report Cards District EHS Liberty Middle School Lincoln Middle School Columbus Elementary Woodland Elementary Worden Elementary Glen Carbon Elementary Hamel Elementary LeClaire Elementary Midway Elementary Nelson Elementary

Grant will be used in foods program

Posted: October 30, 2008

Becky Holle, an Edwardsville High School teacher who teaches foods classes, was recently awarded a grant by The Illinois Retired Teachers Association Foundation (IRTAF). The grant, in the amount of $427.90, was just one of only 39 hand delivered to the 39 public school educator winners selected within the southern Illinois counties.  [more...]

District honors volunteer

Posted: October 30, 2008

Local resident Joe Primrose was celebrating his 67th birthday this week out of town when his wife had to “spill the beans” that they needed to return home to Edwardsville. The Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education would be recognizing Primrose at the Monday night's school board meeting for his commitment to the district through volunteering.  [more...]

Worden fourth graders study owls

Posted: October 29, 2008

Oohs and ahs filled Worden Elementary fourth grade classrooms on Tuesday, October 7, as students became young scientists for the day with a hands-on exploration of owl pellets. After an initial discussion of owls and facts that students already knew, the students were able to discover a bit more about owls by “digging” through an owl pellet.

Owls, like many other birds, eat their food whole. Since birds do not have teeth, they can't chew their food. Instead, they use their strong, sharp beaks to rip apart their prey and then swallow large chunks whole. The owl slowly digests its meal by separating the softer materials (such as meat) from the harder material (such as bones). It then regurgitates the harder material along with indigestible items such as feathers and fur in the form of a pellet.

As students dissected their pellets, they began to discover even more information about owls and their diets. After this hands-on experience, students attended a presentation given by a speaker from the Tree House Wildlife Center who brought a few guest owls with her. Fourth graders enjoyed an exciting day and learned a great deal about owls.

Bringing everyday math to life

Posted: October 29, 2008

When Everyday Math was introduced as part of District 7’s new math curriculum that was aligned with the Illinois Learning Standards, many parents were unsure how this strange and foreign way of mathematics could help students learn math better. [more...]

Board applauds achievements

Posted: October 29, 2008

It was a night of recognition at the District 7 School Board meeting Monday in addition to a few business items that included the approval of a resolution to adopt the Sports Complex master plan as well as discussion regarding the permanent move of high school graduation to Edwardsville High School's Lucco-Jackson Gymnasium.  [more...]

Teacher mixes parents with poetry

Posted: October 27, 2008

Glen Carbon Elementary first grade teacher Ginger McDaniel knows the important role that families play in the education of their children. That’s why on Monday night she invited the families – including the siblings – of her students into the school for a special night of poetry reading. [more...]

Hamel firemen visit school to promote Fire Safety Week

Posted: October 22, 2008

Hamel kindergartners take part in a presentation by volunteers from the Hamel Volunteer Fire Department, one of many activities students participated in related to Fire Safety Week. During the week, all students were given instruction on how to prevent fires, what to do in case of a fire, as well as other fire safety topics. On October 9, the Hamel Fire Department presented an all-school safety assembly to give first hand experiences with fire safety. After the assembly, each class went outside to see the fire trucks and ask questions of the firemen.

Growth in Edwardsville slows since 2006 Peak

Posted: October 20, 2008

Edwardsville's once strong growth has slowed in the past two years with a decrease in new construction. The yearly totals for building permits in the past ten years peaked at 796 in 2006. The city issued 676 in 2008, and totals for 2008 are projected at about 500 with 441 permits already recorded. [more...]

Connections October 2008

Posted: October 22, 2008

District 7 News including the recent Tiger Ambush Classic band competition, recent test scores, and board member education briefs. [more...]

District 7 Sports Complex Master Plan

Posted: October 15, 2008

 [View presentation...]

Lincoln Presents The Hunchback of Notre Dame Goes West

Posted: October 20, 2008

Lincoln Middle School ACT I students put on their fall performance on Friday, October 17, and Saturday, October 18, in the Lincoln Auditorium. The production, called “Fall Pre-show Talent Mix and The Hunchback of Notre Dame Goes West,” was a combination talent show and one-act play. The cast for the play was led by Mikhaela Romoser and Harry Gorden. The talent show featured students dancing, playing musical instruments, and singing. All gave exceptional performances, but Shelby Helser stole the show with her rendition of Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On.” The evening was a great success and gave the talented students of Lincoln Middle School the opportunity to showcase their talents before an appreciative audience.

 

 

District 7 honors students

Posted: October 20, 2008

Several District 7 students were honored at Monday night’s School Board meeting with the “Do the Right Thing” award.

Students are nominated for the “Do the Right Thing” award by teachers and administrators from the award winner’s school. The award is given when a student makes a noteworthy achievement, displays an act of kindness or is “doing the right thing." weekend. [more...]

John Meinzen was recently awarded the 2008 Verona Computational Science Teacher Leader Award

Posted: October 20, 2008

John Meinzen was recently awarded the 2008 Verona Computational Science Teacher Leader Award for his contributions in providing students with access to computational science tools and methods that scientists use on a regular basis. [more...]

Sports Complex work continues

Posted: October 16, 2008

When traveling down Center Grove Road this week near the District 7 Sports Complex, it’s difficult not to notice the construction equipment moving dirt near the junior varsity boys’ baseball field. [more...]

Wrestling facility proposed for Complex

Posted: October 15, 2008

The District 7 Board of Education was presented with a proposed master plan for the District 7 Sports Complex Tuesday that included a $3 million donation by the Edwardsville Wrestling Club to build a new wrestling/multi-purpose building within the sports complex. [more...]

Perfect: EHS senior scores 36 on ACT

Posted: October 14, 2008

One tenth of a percent. That’s the national percentage of students who achieve a perfect 36 score on the ACT test. Edwardsville High School senior Jordan Halfman has joined this elite group by scoring a 36 on the ACT test he took in April. [more...]

Edwardsville High School celebrates Homecoming Week

Posted: October 8, 2008

Edwardsville High School celebrates Homecoming Week this week with a variety of activities, including the Homecoming Parade on Wednesday night, the Homecoming football game on Friday night, and the Homecoming dance on Saturday night. [more...]

EHS gets set for Homecoming events

Posted: October 6, 2008

Although homecoming is over a week away at Edwardsville High School (EHS), Homecoming activities have already begun. EHS students who are members of local bands have been competing during lunch periods for a chance to play during the homecoming dance on Oct. 11.  [more...]

Dr. Ed Hightower examines District 7’s road to improved academic achievement

Posted: October 2, 2008

The District is pleased to report that nearly 90% of our students are meeting/exceeding Illinois Learning Standards in reading and mathematics as measured by the Illinois Standards Achievement Test (ISAT).

District 7 has always been known as a good school district. Yet, nine years ago, long before the No Child Left Behind Act of 2002, the Board, faculty, and staff committed to improving academic performance for all students, including special needs students, low income students, and minority students. Achievement in all areas needed to increase. [more...]

EHS Marching Tigers steals the show in Sparta

Posted: October 2, 2008

The Edwardsville High School Marching Tigers competed on Saturday, September 27, in the Sparta Parade and Field Show competition and came away with 10 trophies and awards. The competition was divided into two parts: parade and field. [more...]

Cliff, the Mad Scientist, visits Hamel Elementary

Posted: October 3, 2008

“Cliff, the Mad Scientist” explains the scientific method to Hamel Elementary students on Tuesday, September 30. The Mad Science assembly was designed to increase students’ interest and enthusiasm for science. The assembly was interactive, with students participating in experiments and demonstrations, like the student riding on the Hovercraft pictured above.

Edwardsville schools excel on state tests

Posted: October 2, 2008

The Edwardsville School District's goal nine years ago was to improve on Illinois Standards Achievement Test scores and the Prairie State Achievement Exam, according to Superintendent Ed Hightower.  [more...]

EHS group looks to tackle cancer

Posted: September 26, 2008

When the Edwardsville High School Medical Careers Club orchestrated a week-long fundraising event for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital last spring, they raised $33,000 - $13,000 over their $20,000 goal.  [more...]

Standardized test scores on the rise

Posted: September 23, 2008

Almost nine years ago, the Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education met and decided to take on the challenge of improving its students’ standardized state test scores. A report at the board meeting Monday on historical testing scores has shown that the board’s goal has been realized.  [more...]

District 7’s 2008 ISAT and PSAE Scores

Posted: September 23, 2008

A Report to the Board of Education September 22, 2008 [View presentation...]

Board approves 2008-09 budget

Posted: September 23, 2008

The Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education approved at Monday’s meeting the 2008-09 budget and approved five individuals to a three-year term to the Citizens Advisory Council. The preliminary budget presented to the board in August and presented for display essentially had “remained unchanged.” [more...]

District 7 Hosts Naturalization Ceremony

Posted: September 24, 2008

On September 22, 2008, a special session of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois was called to order for the purpose of naturalizing new citizens. District 7 hosted the event in the Edwardsville High School auditorium at 9:00 a.m. This marked the first time the court held a naturalization ceremony in District 7.

Fifty-nine candidates were presented at the Naturalization Ceremony by the United States Attorney on behalf of the Citizenship and Immigration Services of the Department of Homeland Security. Presiding and administering the Naturalization Oath were Magistrate Judge Donald G. Wilkerson and Chief Bankruptcy Judge Kenneth Meyers.

Several student groups from Liberty and Lincoln Middle Schools and Edwardsville High School were in attendance. Students represented GO (Guidance in Operation) from both middle schools; ELL, a high school club that studies the U.S. Constitution, and high school social studies and journalism classes.

An EHS band and choral ensemble performed The Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America.

District 7 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Hightower was the guest speaker for the event. [Photo Gallery]

Twenty-two bands compete in first annual Tiger Ambush Classic

Posted: September 24, 2008

Twenty-two marching bands competed in and nearly 6,000 spectators watched the first annual Edwardsville High School Tiger Ambush Classic held on Saturday, September 20, at the District 7 Sports Complex.

Bands competed in four classes and six categories: Best in Class, Best Music, Best Percussion, Best Color Guard, Best Drum Major, and an overall Grand Champion.

EHS Band Director Marvin Battle called the event a complete success. “An event like this takes a great deal of work by everyone involved. The fact that everything went smoothly isn’t an accident. We had the complete support of the school district and high school administration and staff. And, of course, I want to recognize the outstanding efforts of our band boosters – without them, we could never have pulled this off,” Battle said.  [more] · [Photo Gallery]

 

 

 

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Wal-mart representative Cindy Crook presented a check for $1,500 to Jill Thompson, Woodland PTO Treasurer, on Tuesday, September 23, 2008, at Woodland’s morning meeting. Laura Picchiotti, a representative of Woodland PTO’s Library Enhancement Committee, applied for a grant from Wal-mart to help with expenses for improving Woodland’s media center. The PTO raised $5,000, and the grant added $1500 to help complete the project. The PTO began this project last year, adding books and accelerated reader tests to the media center, and members will continue to work with Woodland staff to add aesthetic improvements as well.

Middle schools honor Constitution Week

Posted: September 18, 2008

Taylor Maggio, an 8th grade student on Team 81, leads Lincoln Middle School’s Constitution Week assembly by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance on the steps in front of the school. Dr. Steve Stuart, principal, addressed Lincoln Middle School students and staff on Tuesday morning, September 16, 2008. He reminded students of the importance of upholding our constitutional rights for all citizens. The Lincoln Middle School band, orchestra, and chorus also performed musical selections in honor of “Constitution Week.”

Members of Boy Scout troops 216 assist in the Flag Ceremony conducted at Liberty Middle School on Wednesday, September 17. The ceremony was part of Liberty’s recognition of Constitution Week. Principal Dennis Cramsey addressed students, faculty, and staff on the topic of patriotism and challenged students to be patriots themselves, asking them to love and support our country. In addition to the Flag Ceremony and Mr. Cramsey’s address, the band, orchestra, and choir performed musical selections in honor of the day.

EHS to hold first marching band competition

Posted: September 16, 2008

The Edwardsville High School Marching Tigers will sponsor their first ever marching band competition at the EHS Sports Complex beginning at 2 p.m. on Sept. 20. Rae Ann Beyerl, publicity chairperson for the EHS Band Boosters’ Tiger Ambush Classic, explained that 22 local and regional bands were registered to participate in the contest. “They are coming from all over the place.” she said. “About 150 miles away is the farthest that someone is coming.”  [more...]

Marching Tigers hosting competition

Posted: September 16, 2008

The Edwardsville High School Marching Tigers will sponsor their first ever marching band competition at the EHS Sports Complex beginning at 2 p.m. on Sept. 20. Rae Ann Beyerl, publicity chairperson for the EHS Band Boosters’ Tiger Ambush Classic, explained that 22 local and regional bands were registered to participate in the contest. “They are coming from all over the place.” she said. “About 150 miles away is the farthest that someone is coming.”  [more...]

Naturalization ceremony planned

Posted: September 16, 2008

Approximately 75 people will raise their right hands taking an oath to become some of America’s newest citizens at 9 a.m. on Sept. 22 at Edwardsville High School’s auditorium. According to a U.S. District Courts press release, the Naturalization Ceremony will take place as a special session of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois is called to order. [more...]

District prepares for weekend

Posted: September 12, 2008

There are no breaks at Edwardsville High School this weekend as EHS facilities will play host to two of the fall's biggest events. On Friday night, the Edwardsville Tigers will square off against one of their biggest rivals, the Alton Redbirds, in the Southwestern Conference opener for both schools. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. [more...]

Important Information for Edwardsville-Alton Football Game

Posted: September 11, 2008

This is a big weekend for activities in District 7. Friday night marks the beginning of Southwestern Conference play for the EHS Football Tigers as we host Alton High School, and on Saturday night, District 7 will host the Battle of the Badges, a basketball game that pits the Edwardsville Police Department and the Glen Carbon Police Department against each other for the benefit of the Glen Ed Pantry.  [more...]

 

An EHS teacher’s summer vacation

Posted: September 9, 2008

Jon Parkin, an Edwardsville High School history teacher, spent five days of his summer vacation in Washington, D.C. He didn’t go for the historical tours. He was there to conduct research and create projects that would be utilized on the Library of Congress Web site. [Full story...]

 

Edwardsville School District 2007-2008 Audit Report

Posted: September 9, 2008

Edwardsville School District 2007-2008 Audit Report .  [View presentation...]

 

District sees state aid fall

Posted: August 28, 2008

At Monday's Edwardsville District 7 Board of Education meeting, board member Greg Roosevelt gave a finance committee update on the status of General State Aid funding and how it would ultimately impact the district's 2008-09 budget. The budget-approved General State Aid formula that dictates the amount of state aid issued to districts across the state will result in District 7 losing approximately $1.8 million in General State Aid (GSA) for the 2008-09 school year.  [Full story...]