JVS Modernizes with Chromebooks
BLOOMINGDALE-Students at Jefferson County Vocational School have some new hardware on hand after the site provided individual Chromebooks through a one-to-one initiative.
Technology Coordinator Ron Peach instructed students on Lenovo N23 Yoga devices and said they will benefit both the pupils and the school. JCJVS purchased 400 of the units, which can convert from laptops to tablets and has touchscreen capabilities.
“I handed them out to classes while they were in their labs and went over rules and expectations and how things work,” he explained, adding that he also discussed features to familiarize students with the system.
There are a multitude of benefits from utilizing the initiative. Peach said students can work at school and at home using the Chromebook technology, plus graduating seniors can keep the devices after they leave. Peach said it also would potentially save the school about 30 percent on costs for other technological equipment and updates, while it could also reduce expenses for textbooks.
“In the long run, we won’t have to keep up the old computer lab or have to constantly refresh the labs, plus we won’t have to maintain cabling,” Peach added. “There would also be some small savings because they are battery-powered and can be charged at home, so it would save [the JVS] on electrical costs.”
JCJVS offers plenty of modern features to educate students. For one, the school network has been updated with a new website through eSchoolView and the addition of Google Apps for Education. eSchoolView builds sites on a cloud-based software that is specifically developed for schools, creating customized designs that are easy to update. It also ensures easy navigation with the latest information and helps promote school-to-home communication. Among the new features on the JVS site are an alumni registration section to receive text updates of events on their cell phone, as well as school delay and cancellation alerts for parents and students and learning tools for class studies. Meanwhile, Google Apps for Education saves time and students can interact and share their work with teachers as well as access assignments at school and at home. The Google apps are free with around-the-clock support available, while files can be created, shared, and edited in real time. Info can also be accessed via computer, tablet, or phone and teachers can create, share and grade assignments more easily.
(Photo Cutline: Jefferson County Vocational School Technology Coordinator Ron Peach instructs students in the early childhood education program on the new Chromebooks they received under a one-to-one initiative. The system provides flexibility to work both at school and at home and further updates the school’s instructional tools.)
Cosmetology Students Styling the Public
BLOOMINGDALE- Senior cosmetology students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are working with the general public and honing their skills in the process.
Instructor Sondra Mount’s class has been accepting appointments since Sept. 12 and students work with clients twice a week to give them a stylish look. Among the services available are shampoos for $3 to spiral perms for $30 and up, in addition to cuts, highlights, facials, waxing, manicures, updos, braids and scalp treatments. Business hours are on Tuesdays from 11:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and some walk-ins are accepted but appointments are preferred so Mount’s eight students could accommodate patrons.
“People come out a lot for color and highlights,” said Mount, adding that the site uses Goldwell color products.
She continued that it gives her students a chance to prepare for a future career in the industry.
“It gives you more experience with people and you do different haircuts,” added student Gabby Lewis. “Whenever you graduate, you have more experience.”
Lewis noted that she hopes to continue in the cosmetology field after she earns her diploma.
“Having clients also helps with skills with competency and communication,” added classmate Gabrielle McClain.
For more information, contact JCJVS at (740) 264-5545 and ask for cosmetology.
(Photo Cutline: Senior cosmetology student Gabby Lewis practices razor cutting on a mannequin at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School but her class is currently accepting clients from the general public. Business hours are Tuesdays from 11:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Appointments are preferred, so call (740) 264-5545 and ask for cosmetology.)
Crestview Inn Open for Business
BLOOMINGDALE- The Crestview Inn Restaurant has officially opened for business and gives culinary arts students a taste of life in the working world.
The student-run eatery located at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School in Bloomingdale began operations on Tuesday and offers up a mouth-watering menu of breakfast and lunch dishes. Program instructor Glenn Zalenski said it is open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and is operated by senior students. Takeout and dine-in services are available, as well as small meetings and parties in the 40-seat dining room.
“This year, we are striving for more of small, basic menu and they will add seasonal items as the season changes. We will have pies and cookies for the holidays, heavier meats and stews in the winter and lighter salads in the spring,” he explained. “We are bringing back a few favorites and will add more complex items.”
Among them are original recipe burgers with fresh beef, homemade chicken patties, a steak dinner, pumpkin soup and guacamole, all of which are made from scratch. Zalenski said this was the largest group he’s had in one class with 16 juniors and seniors. Because of the size, they have been divided into groups and rotate in the kitchen each day. Some will also be assisting in the school cafeteria to gain more hands-on experience.
“They will get practical experience in mass food production by working in the cafeteria line,” he added, noting his enthusiasm about the class. “We have a super class and my expectation is for them to come up with some great menu items.”
The restaurant seats up to 40 people while groups have already started booking reservations. The inn has fed the likes of Big Red retired teachers, the Red Hat Society, area principals and even JVS board members. To add even more flavor to meals, the program has also incorporated a smoker created by the JVS welding program and a small herb garden. They are also planning fundraisers to benefit the program, such as the second-annual Cookie Walk around the holidays. Meanwhile, the students will take time to prepare for competitions that start in February.
“Every day they will also be working on their competition skills. They will be given two hours to hone their skills,” Zalenski said. “They will be given items and ingredients and must portion them out and cook two dinners each day. Each group will be in the staging area once a week.”
He added that the junior project is to establish a restaurant from the ground up, which incorporates building and operational costs, product pricing and talking with the health inspector.
For more information about the Crestview Restaurant, to make reservations or to order takeout, call (740) 264-5545, Ext. 602.
(Photo Cutline: Culinary arts students prepare meals in the Crestview Inn Restaurant located at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. The eatery opened its doors on Tuesday and operates three days a week from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To make reservations, order takeout or obtain more information, call (740) 264-5545, ext. 602.)
Preschool in Full Swing
Photo Cutline: The preschool at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School is in full swing as youngsters learn their ABC’s and early childhood education students prepare to become future teachers and childcare providers. The preschool operates on Monday to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes 21 ECE students and 24 preschoolers. Anyone considering the Bloomingdale site for their toddler next year may contact instructor Becky Kelley at (740) 264-5545, Ext. 408. Pictured are, from left, Ben Wilson, Brantley Robson, ECE student Rebakah Hancock, Gavin Pratt and CeCe McWhirter.
Photo Cutline: The preschool at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School is in full swing as youngsters learn their ABC’s and early childhood education students prepare to become future teachers and childcare providers. The preschool operates on Monday to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes 21 ECE students and 24 preschoolers. Anyone considering the Bloomingdale site for their toddler next year may contact instructor Becky Kelley at (740) 264-5545, Ext. 408. Pictured are, from left, Ben Wilson, Brantley Robson, ECE student Rebakah Hancock, Gavin Pratt and CeCe McWhirter.
AST Class Gains New Equipment
BLOOMINGDALE-Students in the auto service technology program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School have an extra advantage in their education with the addition of some high-tech equipment for their classroom.
Instructor Ron Reasoner said the school purchased a Hunter Roadforce tire balancer this summer that is relatively rare at area professional service sites. The apparatus, which is estimated at $18,000, provides a more modernized tool of the trade.
“It is the latest and greatest technology in tire balancing,” he said. “We do have an older machine and the advantage is I can teach students the old and new concepts.”
Reasoner added that while both sets of equipment use technology, the newer apparatus has extra capabilities that the older model does not. The balancer includes a spinning barrel which applies pressure to simulate actual road force to help balance the tire. A modern touchscreen computer and laser measurements are also incorporated into the system.
“We are one of the few in the valley to have a Roadforce balancer due to the cost, but as far as technology goes it’s a homerun,” he added, saying the equipment can be used on tires from small passenger cars up to light-duty pickup trucks and SUV’s.
Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said financing for the acquisition came from the school’s equipment fund to help modernize the program, plus it benefits students in the long run.
“The upgrade to equipment after 18 years is great for everyone because it shows the care the JVS has taken of it,” Dr. Phillipson said. “The new purchase represents the program’s state-of-the-art approach to technology in order to prepare students for a career in auto mechanics.”
For more information about the program and system, contact the JVS at (740) 264-5545.
Ron Reasoner, auto service technology instructor at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, is pictured with juniors Davin Gringle, at left, and Dylan Haldiman as they demonstrate the new Hunter Roadforce tire balancer that was acquired for the program this summer. Reasoner said the high-tech equipment is not commonly used in the area and gives students another advantage by learning this more modern tool of the trade.
JVS Donates $7,500 to CDI
BLOOMINGDALE- The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School exceeded expectations with its most recent quarter auction and contributed more than $7,500 to the Cancer Dietary Initiative to help feed cancer patients and their families.
School officials presented a check for $7,506 to CDI representatives on Nov. 17 to help those who are undergoing treatment and forced to choose between purchasing food and medication. The Fourth-Annual Anthony D’Aurora Quarters for Cancer Quarter Auction broke its previous record by more than $1,000 following this year’s benefit on Nov. 6. About 350 people attended and bid on items provided by 40 vendors, plus they had a chance to purchase goods onsite. In addition to the quarter auction, JVS students collected more than 700 non-perishable items from boxed potatoes and stuffing to canned vegetables and the Transition to Work program sold pink ribbons for a Pink Out day in October.
Organizer Jill McVicker was amazed by the response and said it was the school’s best effort yet. She said school leaders were approached four years ago by Don Heiss, who was previously involved with the pantry, about how the JVS could lend a hand.
“It’s a win-win for both organizations because we can show the people what the JVS is all about and also help CDI,” she commented.
Karen Spoonemore, treasurer for the JVS, said 100 percent of the proceeds go to CDI and the majority of the donations come from school staff. Since its inception, the quarter auction has raised an estimated $21,000 for the program. Moreover, the benefit was close to organizers’ hearts because of its namesake. The latest event was named in tribute to longtime principal/supervisor Anthony D’Aurora, who passed away from cancer last year. He was a big supporter of the fundraiser and his wife, Patty, presently serves on CDI’s board.
D’Aurora noted her gratitude to the school and said she was moved by the effort.
“I’m overwhelmed,” she added. “They are wonderful, but I’ve always known that.”
“This was important to Tony,” Spoonemore interjected. “Mr. Heiss was his neighbor and he came in [wanting us to help]. We said we’ll do this and it grew.”
June Crago, public relations coordinator for CDI, said the program began in May of 2013 after 18 families were identified as clients. Today, that number has grown to 90 families around the area, including Brooke, Hancock, Jefferson, and Harrison counties, and the community support certainly helps.
“There is no geographical or financial limitation. All they need is verification from a physician or oncologist,” Crago said of potential clients, praising McVicker for her hard work. “Jill was the record breaker [by being] innovative and creative.”
Chris Hyland, CDI fundraising chair, said families will have a dinner with all the trimmings thanks to the school food drive and Mountaineer Racetrack and Casino, the latter of which contributed 75 turkeys for holiday meals. Hyland noted that CDI’s clients received a 10- to 14-day supply of food and the holiday distribution was set for this Saturday, Nov. 19. The CDI food pantry is currently located at First Westminster Presbyterian Church on North Fourth Street in Steubenville.
Jefferson County Joint Vocational School officials donated proceeds from its record-breaking Anthony D’Aurora Memorial Quarters for Cancer quarter auction to the Cancer Dietary Initiative to help feed families of cancer patients who are undergoing treatment. The Nov. 6 benefit raised more than $7,500 plus over 700 non-perishable food items to stock shelves and help those who are forced to choose between purchasing medicine and food. Pictured are, from left, Chris Hyland, fundraising chair for CDI; Jill McVicker, quarter auction organizer; Marge Landkrohn, CDI volunteer; June Crago, public relations coordinator for CDI; Patty D’Aurora, CDI board member and wife of late JVS Principal/Supervisor Anthony D’Aurora, the event’s namesake; and Karen Spoonemore, JVS treasurer.
Carpentry Students Building Modular Home
BLOOMINGDALE-Following the recent sale of their final permanent residential project, carpentry students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are now undertaking more mobile pursuits by building their first modular home.
The school most recently sold the seventh—and final—structure erected at the adjacent Breezewood Subdivision in Bloomingdale, and carpentry instructor Steve Orwick decided to scale down his class’s next big project. Framing work began in mid-November on the home, which is an estimated 54 feet long and 26 feet wide, and upon completion it will feature three bedrooms, two baths, a great room containing both living and dining room areas, a kitchen and laundry room.
“A lot of schools in the state have been doing modulars and our schedule doesn’t permit us to go out in the community to build for individuals,” he commented. “It’s two halves of a house and we will actually split it apart and ship it out, then put it back together when it’s sold.”
Twenty juniors and seniors will be working throughout the year to bring the modular to life with help from the estimated 20 students in the electrical program. Orwick said the latter class will also handle the wiring aspect of the plan once the walls and roof are finished. He noted that the students will enjoy seeing the fruits of their labor in the long run.
“They seem to like it. It’s all hands-on training but it’s more about satisfaction,” he added. “The kids who had graduated have called me asking if the house they built sold. Once they have a hand in it, it’s sort of a pride thing and they can drive by the house and see their work.”
Juniors Kelsey Monigold and Michael Lanham are already excited about watching their work take shape.
“I think it’s really exciting to see it done,” said Monigold, an Edison High School student.
Lanham, a fellow Wildcat, agreed.
“I worked on [the last house at the subdivision] and it feels good,” he quipped.
If all goes well, the project could be completed sometime next year and Orwick said officials will decide whether a second modular home will get underway.
“We’re going to test the waters with this and [Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson and] the board will make a decision,” he said.
Meanwhile, Orwick commented that the carpentry program as well as the criminal justice, electrical and welding classes also recently completed OSHA 10 training around Nov. 22, which was provided by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, while officials were also looking at potential aerial lift training certification this spring also through the UBCJ.
Carpentry students Michael Lanham, Tim McCoy, Hezekiah Scurry and Kelsey Monigold are pictured in the foreground helping their fellow classmates build a new modular home at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. The carpentry program completed and sold its seventh and final house at the Breezewood subdivision this past year but is continuing their hands-on training with a more mobile venture that could be finished next year.
JVS Introducing Small Animal Science Program
BLOOMINGDALE- Students with an interest in animals have a chance to participate in a new course at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.
Officials are looking to start a small animal sciences program next fall and said interest has been building. Sophomores caught a glimpse of the class during their annual visitation days on Nov. 15 and 17 with discussions by local businesswoman and AKC Husky dog trainer Shawna Wells and rabbit breeder Tammy Mazzaferro, while more details were shared during the school’s open house on Nov. 21. The program helps fill a niche in the agriculture and environmental systems career field and is broken down into four subject areas: veterinary science, animal anatomy and physiology, animal health, and companion animal selection, nutrition and management.
Science instructor Tamela Marshall is helping to coordinate the program, which is slated to start during the fall of 2017. Marshall said an instructor will be hired and the program will focus on subjects that could lead to careers in the veterinary tech field. The concept was borne after a survey was conducted at the school.
“The staff took a survey of possible programs we might initiate and the students showed such an interest, then the board agreed to do a program,” Marshall said. “It’s a very diverse curriculum that would prepare them to go into the vet tech field.”
Veterinary science helps students learn causes, symptoms, and treatment of common diseases with special emphasis on developing preventative health management plans and breeding programs. Topics range from veterinary pharmacology and radiology and imaging techniques to principles of surgery and safe laboratory skills. Meanwhile, animal anatomy and physiology helps students examine the structure and function of the major organ systems as well as the function and principle of blood flow in animals. Students will study internal and external anatomical parts, their functions and will investigate the relationship among these parts and systems. Topics include business operations, animal science and animal management. Animal health will help examine causes, symptoms and treatment of common diseases with emphasis on developing preventative health management plans. Topics include the study of pathogens, classifying types of diseases, and classifying types of disorders. Companion animal selection, nutrition and management helps apply responsible animal science principles and identify routine husbandry practices to companion animals. Topics include nutrient utilization, breeding programs, management of housing design, meal plans, and general care practices.
Marshall added that much of the program is being modeled after a similar offering at the Columbiana County Career Center Program. Additionally, officials also hoped to work with Ohio University Eastern and Kent State University-Tuscarawas for alignment and transition into their vet tech programs.
“We’re really excited. It’s something very positive and we have a lot of students interested in the program,” she said, commenting that the small animal sciences course is a plus since the area is largely rural and incudes many agricultural farms. “The students have a background in [agriculture] and there’s a really strong desire in this area.”
For more information, contact the JVS at (74) 264-5545.
Tamela Marshall, science instructor at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, discusses the implementation of the small animal sciences program during the recent sophomore visitation days at the school. The new program is eyed for this fall and will include a wide range of subjects that could lead to careers as a vet tech or other opportunities in the animal care field.
Sophomores Visit JVS
BLOOMINGDALE- Jefferson County Joint Vocational School welcomed students from around the area during its annual sophomore visitation days.
Students from Steubenville, Indian Creek, Harrison Central, Catholic Central and Toronto toured the Bloomingdale facility on Nov. 15 to learn about its programs while dozens more pupils from Buckeye Local and Edison High Schools attended that Thursday. Current JVS students manned tables in the commons area and the visitors gathered to watch an original video from the multimedia and design class depicting students performing the mannequin craze as they showcased the labs. The tours then began in the individual labs with students and instructors providing demonstrations and some hands-on instruction, followed by lunch and more tours before they departed on their respective buses. The JVS provides 14 programs including auto collision, auto service, computer networking, cosmetology, criminal justice, culinary arts, early childhood education, electrical trades, health technologies, multimedia and design, power mechanics, and welding, but one new addition is the small animal science program coming this fall. There, students will learn all aspects about caring for small animals with courses that could eventually lead to work as a vet tech.
Guidance Counselor Shellie Henderson said about 300 students took part throughout the week and it was considered successful.
“They got to see how they could get industrial credentials for a career and graduate with credentials in various programs here at the school,” Henderson added. “They also understand that they can come out and take College Credit Plus here with 21 hours per year of classes.”
Henderson was also pleased to see the growing interest in the small animal sciences program, making it likely that it will be offered next year.
“It was nice to know there was a high amount of interest in the new program, and hopefully we can get applications to open the program in the fall.”
Quite a few of the attendants were looking to sign up for the JVS next year, saying they enjoyed learning what was available at the site.
“I like the welding program,” said Dominick Flenniken, a sophomore at EHS. “My stepfather welds and I’m very interested.”
BLHS students Morgan Horvath, Renee Worwa, and Sarriah Pollock set their sights on the cosmetology program. Horvath and Worwa both said they liked doing hair, makeup, and nails and would enjoy learning outside a normal classroom.
“I like making people feel good about themselves,” added Pollock.
Jacob Still and Dylan Weir, who are also from BLHS, were keen about the power mechanics program and looked forward to training for potential careers.
“I like tearing things apart and putting them back together,” said Still, adding that it was in his blood. “My dad and Pap used to rebuild cars. [I’d like] coming here and getting the chance to learn about doing dirty work and having the smarts to tear something apart and fix it.”
“I grew up working on dirt bikes and small motors,” Weir added, saying his father was a diesel mechanic. “I like getting down and dirty and making some good money. I plan on coming here next year for sure.”
For more information about the programs, call (740) 264-5545.
Chad Custer, a junior welding student at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, looks on as Edison High School sophomore Dominick Flenniken, at left, tests his mettle during the annual sophomore visitation on Nov. 17. Schools from throughout Jefferson and Harrison counties visited the school throughout the week to learn about the programs and sign up for next fall.
TTW Program Helping Furry Friends
BLOOMINGDALE- Students in the Transition to Work program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are making sure local shelter animals are not forgotten this holiday season by spearheading an annual collection for the Jefferson County Humane Society.
Program Instructor Christina Henderson said students have been hanging flyers throughout the school as a reminder to bring in food, toys and other supplies to help some furry friends. The collection runs from Dec. 1-16, after which students will deliver the goods to the site in Wintersville.
Among the requested goods are animal care items, including canned puppy food, dry dog food, kitten or puppy milk replacer, clay cat litter, scoopable litter, small litter boxes, bath towels and artificial sweetener-free peanut butter; office supplies such as copy paper, scotch tape, forever stamps, manila file folders and black sharpies; and cleaning supplies, including bleach, paper towels, high-efficiency laundry detergent, 13-gallon trash bags, washcloths, antibacterial hand soap, Windex, empty spray bottles and blue Dawn dish detergent. Monetary donations will also be accepted to aid the Humane Society.
Henderson also sends a one-call out to students’ parents while the students spread the word to others for help. Students and staff will bring in the items, which are then gathered under a Christmas tree in the TTW classroom. She noted that the annual drive has been held around the holidays but last year’s collection was held in February. Organizers decided to offer it once more at Christmastime when everyone is in the giving spirit.
“I’m a huge animal lover and every class here has a huge heart. The Humane Society appreciates it and they make a big deal and take our students’ picture [on delivery day],” she said. “We take two vans so everybody can see the end result of their efforts. They are all about helping and are very unselfish. It’s something exciting and brings the kids together.”
The Transition to Work program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School is making sure shelter animals are not left out this holiday season by collecting food and other items for the Jefferson County Humane Society. The campaign runs from Dec. 1-16 and will be delivered to the site by TTW students. Pictured hanging flyers for the occasion are senior Mackenzie Owen and sophomore Tommy Hunt.
JVS Welding Students Assist Nutcracker Village
BLOOMINGDALE- Welding students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are helping the community get into the holiday spirit by sprucing up a significant addition to the 2016 Nutcracker Village at Historic Fort Steuben.
They spent about three weeks upgrading a 30-foot-tall decorative metal tree that is being placed at the park for the festivities, which run each weekend from Nov. 22-Jan. 8 and feature 100 life-sized Nutcracker characters as well as vendors, food, music, and an original play. Students refurbished rusted metal, made some welding improvements, and painted and added LED lights to the structure. They began erecting the estimated 20-foot-wide base at the site in Steubenville and planned to complete work this Saturday.
Students Lane Howell and Trenton Sandy said they were excited to do the work and gain some hands-on experience.
“I like it,” said Howell.
“It’s awesome,” added Sandy. “We get to go out and put it up.”
Others involved in the project included students Hayden McKee, Dan Goodlan, Donald Fankhauser, Chuck Kimble, and Hallie Schmitt.
Instructor Roger Hilty, who also assists with the seasonal festivities, said the class was approached by event organizers to help with the refurbishment and they were glad to get involved.
“The Nutcracker Village Committee contacted us and had a need. We got together as a group and they decided to take it on,” said Hilty. “All of our communities around Jefferson County have various projects and it’s good for the young people to step forward and take the time and not get paid for it.”
In addition to Nutcracker Village, the welding program has constructed massive metal designs replicating reptiles and dinosaurs that are currently displayed at Austin Lake Park and other venues. Students planned to complete the tree project this Saturday.
“Last year, the Nutcracker Village was a success; this year is going to be phenomenal,” Hilty added. “I would highly recommend anyone to come down to the village. It’s going to bring people to the area, and we want to see more people come into the Steubenville-Jefferson County area.”
Welding students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are finishing up the refurbishment of a 30-foot-tall metal tree decoration that is being added to Historic Fort Steuben as part of its Nutcracker Village display. Pictured are Hayden McKee, Dan Goodlan, Donald Fankhauser, Chuck Kimble, Lane Howell, Hallie Schmitt, and Trenton Sandy. The students planned to complete the project at the park this weekend in time for festivities each weekend from Nov. 22-Jan. 8.
Renovations Accommodating New Program at JVS
BLOOMINGDALE-Changes are underway at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School as officials make room for the new small animal science program this fall.
Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said the veterinary-based course will be situated in the former health technologies lab at the northern end of the building. Renovations began on June 13 to remove walls and add space to accommodate a classroom, dog grooming area and other amenities. Fort Steuben Maintenance of Steubenville is overseeing the project, which is worth an estimated $241,000.
“They have until Aug. 11 to get it completed,” he said. “The old health tech room will have walls for the classroom, some cabinet work, cages, a laundry area and an area for dog grooming.”
The room will also include exam tables, a supply room and a changing area for students. As of now, 21 students have signed up for the program but enrollment is still underway. It will be instructed by Emily Moore and provide a real hands-on learning experience with the animals. The program will groom dogs for the public but also offer a variety of training for the veterinary and related fields. The curriculum will primarily focus on smaller breeds such as cats and dogs and include anatomy, animal maintenance and care and nutrition, among other topics, but the two-year program could inevitably grow in scope. Officials said the goal is for students to practice in a veterinary career or go on to college and become a veterinary technician, or vet tech. The current class will only be open to juniors but will expand two juniors and seniors next year.
Meanwhile, the new health technologies classroom is being revamped to include a pharmacy tech section and room for hospital beds for further instruction. Zapor Architects Group of Steubenville prepared the designs and the school board approved the work during a special meeting on June 1.
Dr. Phillipson concluded that he was pleased to see the school expanding its course catalog to offer even more programming for students.
“We’re providing opportunities for students to pursue a career in the vet tech area and also improving our labs for the health tech program so they can continue to deliver an outstanding education to our students.”
BLOOMINGDALE-Changes are underway at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School as officials make room for the new small animal science program this fall.
Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said the veterinary-based course will be situated in the former health technologies lab at the northern end of the building. Renovations began on June 13 to remove walls and add space to accommodate a classroom, dog grooming area and other amenities. Fort Steuben Maintenance of Steubenville is overseeing the project, which is worth an estimated $241,000.
“They have until Aug. 11 to get it completed,” he said. “The old health tech room will have walls for the classroom, some cabinet work, cages, a laundry area and an area for dog grooming.”
The room will also include exam tables, a supply room and a changing area for students. As of now, 21 students have signed up for the program but enrollment is still underway. It will be instructed by Emily Moore and provide a real hands-on learning experience with the animals. The program will groom dogs for the public but also offer a variety of training for the veterinary and related fields. The curriculum will primarily focus on smaller breeds such as cats and dogs and include anatomy, animal maintenance and care and nutrition, among other topics, but the two-year program could inevitably grow in scope. Officials said the goal is for students to practice in a veterinary career or go on to college and become a veterinary technician, or vet tech. The current class will only be open to juniors but will expand two juniors and seniors next year.
Meanwhile, the new health technologies classroom is being revamped to include a pharmacy tech section and room for hospital beds for further instruction. Zapor Architects Group of Steubenville prepared the designs and the school board approved the work during a special meeting on June 1.
Dr. Phillipson concluded that he was pleased to see the school expanding its course catalog to offer even more programming for students.
“We’re providing opportunities for students to pursue a career in the vet tech area and also improving our labs for the health tech program so they can continue to deliver an outstanding education to our students.”
Workers are busy renovating the former health technologies lab at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School to make way for the new small animal sciences program starting in August. The space will accommodate a classroom, dog grooming area and cages for the animals, while the health tech lab was relocated to the southern end of the building. Space for that class is also being revamped and all of the improvements should be finished in mid-August.
Final Phase of JVS Roof Project Starts This Week
BLOOMINGDALE-The final phase in a nearly four-year roof replacement project is scheduled to start this week at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.
The overall project, which totals $1,919,595, involves the removal of the older, foam-based roof and its replacement with a new, insulated material to prevent further leakage. Work is set to begin Tuesday on the southern wing of the building, which includes several classrooms and the multimedia and computer networking systems labs Superintendent Dr. Todd Phillipson said Boak and Sons Inc. of Youngstown, which has done a majority of the overall upgrade, was handling the latest update and it was set for completion around mid-August.
Costs break down to $386,331 for the first phase, $963,491 for the second portion, which was divided into two parts due to the size of one area, and $569,773 for the final section.
“There were four sections we did that we started about 3 ½ years ago,” said Dr. Phillipson. “It’s great because we shouldn’t have any more leaks in the classrooms or hallways.”
He said Boak and Sons oversaw first phase over the former HVAC and health technologies labs, as well as half of the second portion, which encompassed the early childhood education class and the welding and auto service labs. Mansuetto Roofing of Martins Ferry handled the latter half of that section over the cafeteria and offices. Boak and Sons is returning to complete the final phase and also replaced interior ceiling tiles as part of the plan.
Dr. Phillipson said several roof updates have been done in the school’s 40-plus years, including the addition of a tar pitch topper over the carpentry and electrical labs around 2004 that remains in good condition. No improvements are being eyed for that section for the foreseeable future. He also noted that the improvements would help cut energy costs and a majority of the expenses are being covered by a 1-mill levy that voters approved in November of 2013.
Crews with Boak and Sons Inc. of Youngstown replace ceiling tiles at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School in conjunction with the final phase of an estimated $2 million roof replacement project at the site. The contractor will start work this week on the southern wing, which is located over several academic classrooms and the multimedia and computer networking systems labs, and should complete it in mid-August.
JVS Summer Career Camp a Success
BLOOMINGDALE-Area kids spent time in a different classroom during the annual Summer Career Camp at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.
School officials said this year’s event was a major success and attracted 70 to 75 children per day for the free event, which ran on June 12-14. It was open to students in Jefferson and Harrison counties who were entering fifth and sixth grades this August and they had a chance to get some fun, hands-on learning in actual vocational classes with JVS instructors.
“It’s gone so well, and we’ve had great kids, a great staff and great volunteers,” said organizer Barb Pieniazek. “I’d say that’s the top number [of people we’ve had attending]. They are learning but having fun.”
The young attendants rotated between such activities as building a tin can robot in auto service; learning about phlebotomy and sterilization in health technologies; making pizza and birdhouses and painting rocks in early childhood education; working with simulators, learning about fingerprints and holding make-believe court in criminal justice; making cookies, popcorn and slushies; and creating a music video and working with Photoshop in the multimedia and design lab.
A few of the students shared their insight and said they enjoyed the experience.
“I did auto service and multimedia,” said Brooklyn Reid, a sixth-grader at Indian Creek Middle School who marked her second year participating in the summer career camp. “I like that a bunch of kids get to have fun and you do different activities.”
“I made a music video and painted a birdhouse,” added Emma Doerr, a first-time participant who was entering fifth grade at Wintersville Elementary School. “I like that it’s fun.”
“It is fun making a robot and a music video,” agreed Jordan Hines, a student at WES.
Pieniazek said the children on hand attended homeschool, parochial school and public schools in the two counties. Meanwhile, the camp began as part of the Career Development program but was grounded as an outreach program to give back to the community, while many of the children who attend eventually become students at the JVS.
The annual Summer Career Camp at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School proved to be another successful venture and attracted 70-75 students each day from June 12-14. Kids from Jefferson and Harrison counties learned fun, hands-on skills in vocational classes with actual JVS instructors. Pictured are, from left, Brooklyn Reid, a sixth-grader at Indian Creek Middle School; Amiyah Jones, a sixth-grader at ICMS; Tish’jhaya Cox, a seventh-grader at ICMS; and Peyton Ewing, a fourth-grader at Wintersville Elementary School.
Life is Sweet for JVS Alumna
BLOOMINGDALE-Life has become a little sweeter for one Jefferson County Joint Vocational School alumna after a near-tragedy brought a long-term dream to reality sooner than planned.
Nineteen-year-old Gabie Clark and her mother, Alexandria, opened the doors this summer at the Sugar Rushed Bakery at 1409 Sinclair Ave., Steubenville, and plan to hold a grand opening on Sept. 9 at 9 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and plenty of treats to celebrate. Clark, who graduated from JCJVS and Indian Creek High School in 2016, was a culinary arts student at the Bloomingdale school and studied baking and pastry at Sullivan University in Louisville, Ky. In February, she received a call that would soon change the course of her career.
Gabie learned her brother, Hunter Adkins, sustained head trauma from a fall on the JCJVS campus and she ultimately made the choice to leave school and help her family during his recovery. Hunter, who is a senior carpentry student, returned home from a Pittsburgh hospital but has undergone months of physical therapy. He is currently taking a related lab at JCJVS while on physical restrictions, but the family hopes to see them lifted this winter so he could resume regular studies in the program.
Thoughts soon turned to taking the bakery, which the family operated out of their Wintersville home for friends and family, into the general population. It had been registered as an LLC since 2011 and Hunter’s accident moved those long-term goals up on the timeline. Alexandria said her husband, Benjamin, is a local realtor and the family purchased the former Lala’s Diner location this June. The bakery operates in one portion of the building while Benjamin will maintain a Century 21 office next door. It also includes an apartment so Hunter and the other children could stay nearby when not in school. Updates were made to the building and the bakery held a soft opening in August, offering everything from cookies and cupcakes to brownies and confections.
There is plenty of seating to enjoy a treat of truffles or a batch of frosted or unfrosted brownies while cupcakes come in assorted sizes and flavors from the classic chocolate and vanilla to Banana Split, Pina Colada, Salted Caramel Pretzel and Lumberjack, the latter which contains maple and bacon. Sugar Rushed Bakery has 23 regular flavors, three fillings and a dozen seasonal toppings, but flavors regularly change and Pineapple Upside Down Cake is on the menu for September. Frosting is also made fresh daily and gluten-free frosting cups are offered. Cakes are also available for special occasions such graduations and weddings and come in half and whole sheet sizes.
“This was the plan all along,” Alexandria added, adding that she had left her job as a drug and alcohol counselor in Washington, Pa., to care for her injured son. “This [bakery] was our silver lining from the accident. You don’t know why things happen, but this was the reason.”
Gabie often assisted with the home business but didn’t show real interest until middle school, and it only grew when she began attending JCJVS. She credited former culinary arts teacher Angie Allison with supporting her sweet dreams by encouraging her creativity in class and recognized current instructor Glenn Zalenski for educating her on business operations.
“It’s always been about baking and pastry, but I was not sure what I wanted to do. Mrs. Allison let me do experimental baking and fostered my abilities and I learned about business and customer service with Mr. Zalenski,” she said, saying she learned a lot at JCJVS. “It really did help. I got in the kitchen and it helped me focus on what I wanted to do. I miss being at the JVS and I miss the teachers. It’s a great school and a great experience, and if I had the chance I’d take that opportunity again.”
Zalenski also praised Gabie for doing something she loved.
“She was an excellent student and was very interested in baking. She did very well in competitions,” he said. “I think it’s fantastic. It’s a rarity that students, especially one that young, can fulfill their dream. I’m excited she’s doing something that most people dream about.”
The eldest of six children, Gabie has spent a long time sharing with her siblings but considers the business something all her own. She also enjoys giving back to the community and Sugar Rushed Bakery has already donated items to benefits, plus the owners plan to participate in area events such as Taste of Jefferson County and the Red Hot in Hancock Chili 4 Children Cookoff.
“It’s a lot of work for being 19, but it’s awesome and fun,” she commented. “It’s not like a job to me.”
Business already has been growing by word of mouth and through social media while two part-time employees also help with customers. Business hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information or to place orders, contact Sugar Rushed Bakery at (740) 282-0977. It is also available online at sugarrushedbakery.com as well as on Facebook, Instagram and soon on Twitter.
(Photo Cutline: Jefferson County Joint Vocational School alumna Gabie Clark, left, and her mother, Alexandria, are realizing their dreams by opening the Sugar Rushed Bakery at 1409 Sinclair Ave. in Steubenville and plan to hold a grand opening on Sept. 9. Business hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (740) 282-0977 or go online at sugarrushedbakery.com.)
BLOOMINGDALE-Life has become a little sweeter for one Jefferson County Joint Vocational School alumna after a near-tragedy brought a long-term dream to reality sooner than planned.
Nineteen-year-old Gabie Clark and her mother, Alexandria, opened the doors this summer at the Sugar Rushed Bakery at 1409 Sinclair Ave., Steubenville, and plan to hold a grand opening on Sept. 9 at 9 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and plenty of treats to celebrate. Clark, who graduated from JCJVS and Indian Creek High School in 2016, was a culinary arts student at the Bloomingdale school and studied baking and pastry at Sullivan University in Louisville, Ky. In February, she received a call that would soon change the course of her career.
Gabie learned her brother, Hunter Adkins, sustained head trauma from a fall on the JCJVS campus and she ultimately made the choice to leave school and help her family during his recovery. Hunter, who is a senior carpentry student, returned home from a Pittsburgh hospital but has undergone months of physical therapy. He is currently taking a related lab at JCJVS while on physical restrictions, but the family hopes to see them lifted this winter so he could resume regular studies in the program.
Thoughts soon turned to taking the bakery, which the family operated out of their Wintersville home for friends and family, into the general population. It had been registered as an LLC since 2011 and Hunter’s accident moved those long-term goals up on the timeline. Alexandria said her husband, Benjamin, is a local realtor and the family purchased the former Lala’s Diner location this June. The bakery operates in one portion of the building while Benjamin will maintain a Century 21 office next door. It also includes an apartment so Hunter and the other children could stay nearby when not in school. Updates were made to the building and the bakery held a soft opening in August, offering everything from cookies and cupcakes to brownies and confections.
There is plenty of seating to enjoy a treat of truffles or a batch of frosted or unfrosted brownies while cupcakes come in assorted sizes and flavors from the classic chocolate and vanilla to Banana Split, Pina Colada, Salted Caramel Pretzel and Lumberjack, the latter which contains maple and bacon. Sugar Rushed Bakery has 23 regular flavors, three fillings and a dozen seasonal toppings, but flavors regularly change and Pineapple Upside Down Cake is on the menu for September. Frosting is also made fresh daily and gluten-free frosting cups are offered. Cakes are also available for special occasions such graduations and weddings and come in half and whole sheet sizes.
“This was the plan all along,” Alexandria added, adding that she had left her job as a drug and alcohol counselor in Washington, Pa., to care for her injured son. “This [bakery] was our silver lining from the accident. You don’t know why things happen, but this was the reason.”
Gabie often assisted with the home business but didn’t show real interest until middle school, and it only grew when she began attending JCJVS. She credited former culinary arts teacher Angie Allison with supporting her sweet dreams by encouraging her creativity in class and recognized current instructor Glenn Zalenski for educating her on business operations.
“It’s always been about baking and pastry, but I was not sure what I wanted to do. Mrs. Allison let me do experimental baking and fostered my abilities and I learned about business and customer service with Mr. Zalenski,” she said, saying she learned a lot at JCJVS. “It really did help. I got in the kitchen and it helped me focus on what I wanted to do. I miss being at the JVS and I miss the teachers. It’s a great school and a great experience, and if I had the chance I’d take that opportunity again.”
Zalenski also praised Gabie for doing something she loved.
“She was an excellent student and was very interested in baking. She did very well in competitions,” he said. “I think it’s fantastic. It’s a rarity that students, especially one that young, can fulfill their dream. I’m excited she’s doing something that most people dream about.”
The eldest of six children, Gabie has spent a long time sharing with her siblings but considers the business something all her own. She also enjoys giving back to the community and Sugar Rushed Bakery has already donated items to benefits, plus the owners plan to participate in area events such as Taste of Jefferson County and the Red Hot in Hancock Chili 4 Children Cookoff.
“It’s a lot of work for being 19, but it’s awesome and fun,” she commented. “It’s not like a job to me.”
Business already has been growing by word of mouth and through social media while two part-time employees also help with customers. Business hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information or to place orders, contact Sugar Rushed Bakery at (740) 282-0977. It is also available online at sugarrushedbakery.com as well as on Facebook, Instagram and soon on Twitter.
(Photo Cutline: Jefferson County Joint Vocational School alumna Gabie Clark, left, and her mother, Alexandria, are realizing their dreams by opening the Sugar Rushed Bakery at 1409 Sinclair Ave. in Steubenville and plan to hold a grand opening on Sept. 9. Business hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (740) 282-0977 or go online at sugarrushedbakery.com.)
Transition to Work Students Promoted
BLOOMINGDALE-Two students in the Transition to Work program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are getting their chance to mind the store after recently receiving promotions.
Tommy Hunt and Bryan Mueller have respectively been named manager and assistant manager of the school store, which provides snacks to students and staff. Instructor Christina Henderson said it was the first time the story has had managers in its five-year history and it was a testament to the students’ strong work ethic.
“The school store is up and running, and it’s going so well that two of our returning students have been appointed manager and assistant manager. They oversee all three shifts,” Henderson added. “It recognizes how independent they were. They know all of the jobs of each position.”
She said Hunt, Mueller and the other special needs students understand how to operate equipment as well as communicate with customers and apply money skills, all which would definitely serve them in society. The school store, which supplies popcorn, cookies and slushes to the school population, expanded from the former classroom and now a stand is located in the commons area. Henderson credited the school board for allowing the program to grow and teach students skills they could use when they join the workforce.
“It gives us a job site within the school with many different job skills. They are training at school so they can transition into the community.”
When asked what they liked best about their new posts, Hunt, of Steubenville, said he simply enjoyed doing the work.
“I like helping people out,” added Mueller, who resides in Toronto.
Henderson noted her students also work in the community and currently spend two days a week at Gold Star Kennel in Cadiz and Jefferson Landmark in Bloomingdale, while they maintain Vaccaro Field in the spring. Students also clean the teachers’ lounge each Tuesday and operate the school store operates every day.
(Photo Cutline: Bryan Mueller, left, and Tommy Hunt, students in the Transition to Work Program at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, respectively have been appointed assistant manager and manager of the program’s school store. Instructor Christina Henderson said it was the first time in the store’s five-year history that the positions existed and it was a testament to the students’ strong work ethic.)