Thursday, 8 July 2010
Greetings Upper School Parents and Students:
Although the start of school is still a shimmering mirage on the horizon, I want to pass along some reminders in anticipation of a smooth start to the 2010-11 academic year. The campus is active with summer improvements (including a new roof on the upper school, a completely redesigned library, as well as accustomed touch-ups to classrooms and hallways), making ready for a fresh start of school in August.
As mentioned in my recent e.mail, your child’s academic schedule is now available via the MyBackpack portal from the MVS web. Jon Graetz (as scheduler) and I have worked diligently to accommodate as many course requests as possible. Although, scheduling conflicts are inevitable, we have done our best to keep them to a minimum. If, after reviewing your schedule, you would like to propose a change to your course schedule, know that we will review all such requests; however, we must also attend to the considerations of the larger schedule, balance of sections, and other “bigger picture” issues. We appreciate your understanding.
This fall, the academic day will begin at 8:05AM with Morning Announcements and will conclude at 3:20PM. While five courses continues to be the customary academic load in the upper school, on occasion, students discover they can successfully handle six. The key to considering such options lies in seeking appropriate balance in a student’s life, including: academic schedule, extra-curricular involvements, family schedules, and anticipated workload. The upper school schedule, now in its second year, provides a number of enhancements, including: longer classes, a floating lab period, and rotation of classes. Stemming from feedback collected last year, we have made some adjustments for this year, including a more judicious use of the lab periods, thus providing increased opportunities for students to meet with teachers, complete homework, or catch up between classes. We will continue to monitor and make further adjustments this year.
To further strengthen connections in the upper school, the advisory program will receive added attention this year, specifically in having 15 scheduled meetings throughout the year. For continuing students, most of the advisory groupings remain the same, although a handful of faculty members have shifted their duties. Recognizing the important connecting threads that our Advisory Program provides in the fabric of the upper school community, I am confident that “continuing members” of advisory groups will make “new additions” feel welcomed, informed, and well supported.
I am delighted to welcome three faculty members new to our upper school community. Robyn Case, Librarian and Media Sciences Coordinator, will work in all three divisions and is already assisting with the major renovation to the upper school library. We have two additions to our History Department: Matt LaMotte, most recently from New Hampton School in New Hampshire, will teach AP European History, Government, Modern World, electives, and serve as our men’s lacrosse coach; Blair Munhofen, recent graduate of Georgetown University, will teach World Civilizations, Speech, electives, develop the MVS speech and debate program, and assist with athletics. If you have recently phoned MVS, you have likely already spoken with Heike Kennel, our new MVS receptionist. The four grade-level Deans will continue to focus on grade-level programs and initiatives, including increased attention to student support, clubs and activities, and student expectations and conduct. The Community Service / Service Learning Program is currently undergoing review. Expect a detailed list of guidelines, links, and contact information publicizing Dayton area service organizations and opportunities in the fall.
This marks the fourth year of our Shared Summer Reading for the entire upper school community, including all students, teachers, and I suspect, a number of parents. Our common title is The Blessings of the Animals, by Katrina Kittle, which is due out on 3 August. I encourage you to pre-order your copy now. As a former MVS teacher, Ms. Kittle is very familiar with our school culture, so I am excited for her to participate in the discussions that will emerge from reading her novel. Additional details for Katrina Kittle’s visit to MVS will be announced in late August, including an evening event with the author, for parents and alums.
The revised Upper School Handbook & Program of Studies is available on-line in the “quick links” section of the upper school homepage. As a parent, please review carefully the entirety of the handbook. We will discuss some of the more pertinent topics during Advisory Group meetings early in the school year. The Parent Notification/Student Permission form, which requires student and parent signatures, will be sent home after we review relevant topics during initial Advisory Group meetings.
Considering the arrival of sweltering summer weather, here is an additional reminder regarding dress code. As a quick guide: ripped clothing is not permitted; shorts and skirts must be longer than the extended fingers of a student’s hands at their sides; and shirts should cover a student’s shoulders and not be overly revealing. Additionally, sports apparel, particularly “gym-style shorts,” is better suited for athletic venues than for classrooms. I appreciate your assistance (and shared humor) in guiding our students to be mindful of appearance, especially in anticipation of warm weather at the start of school in August.
In mid-September, MVS will host a student delegation from our sister school, The Thomas Jefferson School, in Concepcion, Chile. We are still seeking MVS families to serve as hosts for our 10 Chilean visitors, ranging in ages from 14-16, for the two weeks that they are in the Dayton area. Thank you to the MVS families who responded to the initial request back in June. If you have interest, please send me an e.mail; I am happy to discuss any additional questions that you have. Thank you for your help with this important relationship, affirming MVS’ commitment to supporting global citizenship.
Team practices for fall high school athletes are scheduled to begin the week of 9 August. Ken Laake (Athletic Director) or the appropriate coach will contact athletes regarding specific practice schedules and related details. Athletic physical cards must be completed and returned to the athletic office before athletes can participate in any pre-season practices.
I am thrilled to report that we have 18 students coming new to MVS this year, including 9 new members of our Freshman Class of 2014! For new parents and students, there is an orientation and welcome program on Monday, 23 August, from 8:30-9:30AM in the Middle School Commons. Details regarding the grade-level specific orientation programs are included in this mailer, each of which occurs on Monday, 23 August.
Tuesday, 24 August is the first day of school! As with the beginning of each year, we need to be patient and flexible as we all become re-adjusted to the flow of traffic on our busy K-12 campus. We will continue to stagger arrival and dismissal times for the three divisions to reduce potential traffic congestion in the neighborhood. As mentioned, Morning Announcements plays an essential role to the culture of the Upper School, thus it is crucial that your child be on time, so that she or he can be fully aware of messages, activities, and events.
Upper School Parent Information Night (better known as PIN, in MVS lingo) will be held on Wednesday, 15 September, beginning at 7:00PM. After meeting with your child’s Academic Advisor for welcome and important announcements, you will receive a copy of your child’s class schedule, then follow an abridged version of the entire academic day, providing the opportunity to briefly attend each of her or his classes. I will send specific details as PIN approaches. Speaking of which, digital versions of all letters and e.mails sent from the upper school office can be found on my MVS Blog. I welcome you to subscribe and follow along, contributing comments and suggestions.
Thank you for reading through these details and reminders about the start of the coming academic year. I wish for you and your family an enjoyable and safe continuation of the summer. On behalf of all upper school faculty and staff members, we look forward to seeing you soon as we all gear-up to start the 2010-11 academic year. It is sure to be a great one!
With sincere regards,
Samuel Wagner, V
Head of Upper School
Enclosed in this summer mailer are several important documents that must be completed prior to the opening of school. Please complete and return the stapled set of forms to the US office as soon as possible.
MVS continues to work with MBS Direct Booksellers as an on-line vendor for textbooks, the link to which is also available on the MVS website. The MBS site lists the book titles and ISBN numbers for the courses your child is scheduled to take. Please note, you may purchase your books through any vendor (including local bookstores or on-line vendors: Amazon, Borders, perhaps even eBay) so long as the books are the same edition indicated on MBS Direct. Many vendors also sell used copies of books. You are also welcome to contact older students from previous classes to purchase their used books, again, as long as the editions are the same. Textbooks, in some classes, will be available as state aid texts that students may borrow for the year. It is recommended that students not write their names in books until after the school year has begun, incase of late sectioning changes.
Emergency Contact Information: Please check and up-date your contact information by accessing “My Backpack” via the log-in on the MVS website.
Permission Form: (Required for all grades) MVS is responsible for its students during the academic day while they are under our supervision. There are several areas, however, where it is necessary to have parental permission in order for a student to participate.
Health Form & Medication Card: Each student should have on file the updated health form to keep our records current. Kindly read the statement regarding the dispensation of prescribed medication. If your child requires prescribed medication during the school day, please complete this form and bring in the medication. Accordingly, we cannot dispense over-the-counter medication to students.
Parent Notification/Student Permission signature page: Requires the signatures of student and parent, indicating reading and understanding of policies, guidelines, procedures, and expectations of the Handbook and technology Acceptable Uses Policy. Form will be sent home with students following discussions during start-of-school Advisory Group meetings.
Instrumental Music Registration Form: For students interested in taking or continuing private music instruction, please complete the enclosed form and return it to Ross Williams.
New MVS Food Service Information Sheet: As the title implies, MVS has an exciting new food provider partnership, beginning next fall.
Calendar of Major Dates, 2010-11: As the title implies. We will share the news as soon as these details are known.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
US Student Schedules & Summer Mailer
Wednesday, 7 July 2010
Greetings Upper School Parents:
A quick e.mail to confirm that your child’s schedule for the 2010-11 academic year is now available via the MyBackpack portal on the MVS web:
Jon Graetz (as Scheduler) and I have worked carefully in constructing the master schedule. Before contemplating any changes, please review the list of course offerings, which will be posted on the upper school homepage by this Friday, which includes some new course offerings! While we will review all schedule change requests, please understand that we are also monitoring the balance of class sizes, rigors of schedules, and other related matters. Your understanding is appreciated.
A reminder that the 2010 Shared Summer Reading is The Blessings of the Animals, written by Katrina Kittle. Required for all upper school students and faculty members, its publication date is 3 August, so I encourage you to pre-order your copy now, perhaps arranging to have it shipped directly to where you will be enjoying the first week of August. Recommendations by the English Department for additional summer reading are listed on the upper school homepage.
The much-awaited “MVS Summer Mailer” is slated to go out on Thursday, 8 July, including many start-of-school details, forms, and reminders, so keep watch at your mailbox!
Best wishes towards the pleasant continuation of your summer.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Greetings Upper School Parents:
A quick e.mail to confirm that your child’s schedule for the 2010-11 academic year is now available via the MyBackpack portal on the MVS web:
Jon Graetz (as Scheduler) and I have worked carefully in constructing the master schedule. Before contemplating any changes, please review the list of course offerings, which will be posted on the upper school homepage by this Friday, which includes some new course offerings! While we will review all schedule change requests, please understand that we are also monitoring the balance of class sizes, rigors of schedules, and other related matters. Your understanding is appreciated.
A reminder that the 2010 Shared Summer Reading is The Blessings of the Animals, written by Katrina Kittle. Required for all upper school students and faculty members, its publication date is 3 August, so I encourage you to pre-order your copy now, perhaps arranging to have it shipped directly to where you will be enjoying the first week of August. Recommendations by the English Department for additional summer reading are listed on the upper school homepage.
The much-awaited “MVS Summer Mailer” is slated to go out on Thursday, 8 July, including many start-of-school details, forms, and reminders, so keep watch at your mailbox!
Best wishes towards the pleasant continuation of your summer.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Friday, June 25, 2010
Late June: Dress Code, Athletic Participation, Community Service, & Scheduling
Friday, 25 June 2010
Greetings Upper School Parents:
With the arrival of actual summer weather, I imagine I am not the only parent searching for summer attire for my kids, hoping these wardrobe selections will last through autumn. That said, I thought it a good idea to send a reminder about dress code, considering it was such a “hot” topic in the spring (pun intended). As a quick guide: ripped clothing is not permitted; shorts and skirts must be longer than the extended fingers of a student’s hands at their sides; and shirts should cover a student’s shoulders and not be overly revealing. Additionally, sports apparel, particularly “gym-style shorts,” is better suited for athletic venues than for classrooms. I appreciate your assistance (and good humor) in guiding our students to be mindful of appearance, especially in anticipation of warm weather at the start of school in August.
A couple of questions have arisen from the revised athletic and participation policy. By way of quick re-cap, here are some points of clarification:
• The revised policy applies only to students in incoming grades 9 and 10.
• Athletic participation is required for a total of 2 seasons of MVS team sports, though these credits should be completed by the end of sophomore year.
• Summer PE credit can still be accepted (according to ODE law) through approved summer school PE programs. Check with Ken Laake if you have specific questions.
• Ken Laake and I are exploring options for after-school PE programs and future summer school PE offerings here at MVS.
• The full text of the revised athletic and participation policy is available on the upper school homepage of the MVS web.
Summer is an opportune time to explore and complete community service hours. The larger goals of community service/service learning relates directly to supporting the MVS mission in developing compassionate global citizens. As a general rule, community service should: be without pay; benefit an organization outside of a student’s customary and familiar contacts (including outside of one’s faith community); assist a disadvantaged group or a needy community effort; and ideally establish a long-term relationship between student and organization. We will discuss the larger goals and related details during Advisory Groups in the fall, when students will turn-in community service hours completed over the summer. In the meantime, continue to send any questions to me.
The list of required and recommended summer reading is available on the upper school homepage of the MVS website, for your perusal.
I am working closely with Jon Graetz to construct the 2010-11 upper school master schedule. We anticipate completing it soon after the 4 July weekend. I will send you a confirmation e.mail when student schedules are available via MyBackpack, inviting you to begin purchasing books via our on-line bookseller, MBS Direct.
Nicholas Studios has now posted on their website photos from the 2010 Graduation Ceremony, available for order; enjoy!
I hope late-June finds you well-rested, healthy, and cool. Best wishes towards a safe and refreshing continuation of your summer.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Greetings Upper School Parents:
With the arrival of actual summer weather, I imagine I am not the only parent searching for summer attire for my kids, hoping these wardrobe selections will last through autumn. That said, I thought it a good idea to send a reminder about dress code, considering it was such a “hot” topic in the spring (pun intended). As a quick guide: ripped clothing is not permitted; shorts and skirts must be longer than the extended fingers of a student’s hands at their sides; and shirts should cover a student’s shoulders and not be overly revealing. Additionally, sports apparel, particularly “gym-style shorts,” is better suited for athletic venues than for classrooms. I appreciate your assistance (and good humor) in guiding our students to be mindful of appearance, especially in anticipation of warm weather at the start of school in August.
A couple of questions have arisen from the revised athletic and participation policy. By way of quick re-cap, here are some points of clarification:
• The revised policy applies only to students in incoming grades 9 and 10.
• Athletic participation is required for a total of 2 seasons of MVS team sports, though these credits should be completed by the end of sophomore year.
• Summer PE credit can still be accepted (according to ODE law) through approved summer school PE programs. Check with Ken Laake if you have specific questions.
• Ken Laake and I are exploring options for after-school PE programs and future summer school PE offerings here at MVS.
• The full text of the revised athletic and participation policy is available on the upper school homepage of the MVS web.
Summer is an opportune time to explore and complete community service hours. The larger goals of community service/service learning relates directly to supporting the MVS mission in developing compassionate global citizens. As a general rule, community service should: be without pay; benefit an organization outside of a student’s customary and familiar contacts (including outside of one’s faith community); assist a disadvantaged group or a needy community effort; and ideally establish a long-term relationship between student and organization. We will discuss the larger goals and related details during Advisory Groups in the fall, when students will turn-in community service hours completed over the summer. In the meantime, continue to send any questions to me.
The list of required and recommended summer reading is available on the upper school homepage of the MVS website, for your perusal.
I am working closely with Jon Graetz to construct the 2010-11 upper school master schedule. We anticipate completing it soon after the 4 July weekend. I will send you a confirmation e.mail when student schedules are available via MyBackpack, inviting you to begin purchasing books via our on-line bookseller, MBS Direct.
Nicholas Studios has now posted on their website photos from the 2010 Graduation Ceremony, available for order; enjoy!
I hope late-June finds you well-rested, healthy, and cool. Best wishes towards a safe and refreshing continuation of your summer.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Sunday, June 13, 2010
End of Sping Term, End of Year, Start of Summer
Monday, 14 June 2010
Greetings Upper School Parents:
I hope these first couple days of summer break finds you rested and well. Following end-of-year faculty meetings and scheduling sessions with students new to MVS, it is has been a productive week here at MVS. This e.mail serves as the official acknowledgement that grades and comments for the Spring Trimester, as well as final grades for the 2009-2010 academic year, are now available via My Backpack on the MVS web.
Here at MVS, we have already begun the transition into summer mode: cleaning classrooms and hallways, preparing for summer camps, while also starting some larger summer renovation projects. Among the most exciting this year are plans for a new roof on the upper school and an extensive renovation of the Upper School Library. Stay tuned for progress reports.
As way of reminder, summer provides an opportune time for completing outside service learning/community service hours. There will be a revision to the structure of this graduation requirement, effective next fall; however, summer remains a highly recommended time to work towards maintaining community service contacts and completing outside service hours.
Descriptions and schedules for MVS 2010 summer camp offerings are available on the MVS web, including Mr. Dunnigan’s “College Application Fun Land” (formerly known as College Boot Camp). There are also a number of academic refresher courses, as part of August Review.
Coming mid-September, I am excited to announce that MVS will host a student delegation from our sister school in South America, The Thomas Jefferson School in Concepcion, Chile. We are seeking MVS families to serve as hosts for our 10 Chilean visitors, ranging in ages from 14-16, for the two weeks that they are in the Dayton area. If you have interest, please send me an e.mail and I’ll be happy to discuss additional details. Thank you for your help with this important connection, affirming MVS’ commitment to supporting global citizenship.
Some have asked for a copy of my 2010 Graduation poem, delivered as an ode to the Seniors at the Victoria Theatre last Saturday. A printable version is available on my MVS Blog along with the archives of all letters and e.mails sent from the upper school office this year.
Best wishes towards a relaxing and productive summer.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Greetings Upper School Parents:
I hope these first couple days of summer break finds you rested and well. Following end-of-year faculty meetings and scheduling sessions with students new to MVS, it is has been a productive week here at MVS. This e.mail serves as the official acknowledgement that grades and comments for the Spring Trimester, as well as final grades for the 2009-2010 academic year, are now available via My Backpack on the MVS web.
Here at MVS, we have already begun the transition into summer mode: cleaning classrooms and hallways, preparing for summer camps, while also starting some larger summer renovation projects. Among the most exciting this year are plans for a new roof on the upper school and an extensive renovation of the Upper School Library. Stay tuned for progress reports.
As way of reminder, summer provides an opportune time for completing outside service learning/community service hours. There will be a revision to the structure of this graduation requirement, effective next fall; however, summer remains a highly recommended time to work towards maintaining community service contacts and completing outside service hours.
Descriptions and schedules for MVS 2010 summer camp offerings are available on the MVS web, including Mr. Dunnigan’s “College Application Fun Land” (formerly known as College Boot Camp). There are also a number of academic refresher courses, as part of August Review.
Coming mid-September, I am excited to announce that MVS will host a student delegation from our sister school in South America, The Thomas Jefferson School in Concepcion, Chile. We are seeking MVS families to serve as hosts for our 10 Chilean visitors, ranging in ages from 14-16, for the two weeks that they are in the Dayton area. If you have interest, please send me an e.mail and I’ll be happy to discuss additional details. Thank you for your help with this important connection, affirming MVS’ commitment to supporting global citizenship.
Some have asked for a copy of my 2010 Graduation poem, delivered as an ode to the Seniors at the Victoria Theatre last Saturday. A printable version is available on my MVS Blog along with the archives of all letters and e.mails sent from the upper school office this year.
Best wishes towards a relaxing and productive summer.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Revised Athletic Participation & Eligibility Policies
Thursday, 10 June 2010
Greetings Upper School Community:
As we continue with end-of-year celebrations for the 2010 academic year, I wanted to share some policy adjustments for the coming 2011 academic year, to which I have alluded in previous letters.
Taking into consideration the revised guidelines of the Ohio Department of Education, beginning next fall, all rising Freshmen and Sophomores will be required to participate in two seasons of involvement in the MVS athletic program. Physical education credit will no longer be granted for activities outside of MVS sports. Our non-cut policy, focus on good-sportsmanship and life-long fitness, and welcoming reputation for all of our sports have always encouraged students to join MVS teams, even with little previous experience. While programs at the varsity level will continue to focus on pursuing winning records by fielding competitive squads, encouraging student involvement at all levels contributes to the larger goals of supporting an active, healthy, and well-connected school community.
The upper school has always taken pride in the abundant opportunities for student involvement in the life of the school, ranging from athletics, the performing arts, clubs and organizations, and student government, to name a few. Upper school students traditionally participate in a wide variety of activities, contributing to the positive spirit of school community, strengthening the inter-connectedness across grade levels and between peer groups. Active extra-curricular involvement provides valuable lessons in time management, balance of interests, and expanding peer relationships, particularly for students new to the upper school. We are confident that requiring two seasons of athletic participation in MVS sports by the end of sophomore year, will strengthen these ties in the upper school.
Additionally, working closely with Ken Laake (Athletic Director) and our coaching staff, we have tested this year a more rigorous athletic eligibility policy. The new policy takes into consideration MVS’ primary focus on academics while balancing the important role of athletics, providing increased oversight and support to our student athletes. MVS has long believed that the OHSAA regulations (achieving passing grades in a minimum of 5 classes) have not appropriately reinforced the high academic standards that we promote at MVS.
The revised eligibility policy, which we have tested since the winter trimester, includes the following enhancements: students must achieve a minimum of a cumulative 2.0 GPA during the previous marking period, including no failures in any classes. During a current academic term and athletic season, if a student’s school work declines, according to mid-terms or from concerns raised by a teacher, parent, or advisor, that student will be placed on Academic Watch, requiring weekly up-dates from each class to provide a more attentive perspective of a student’s status.
Each Friday this winter and spring, Ken Laake and I have reviewed the weekly status reports, conferring to determine the extent of student athletes’ involvement for the following week’s athletic participation, sharing our decision directly with the student athlete, their parents, and the appropriate coach. The gradual implementation of the improved eligibility policy this year has provided ample evidence of greater academic responsibility in balancing the role of athletic involvement; teachers, coaches, and parents have been involved with individual decisions, leading to increased collective support of our student athletes. Having used two seasons to refine this policy, we will formally implement these changes beginning in August of the 2010-11 academic year.
As always, I welcome your feedback regarding these policy changes as we strive to provide greater support to students at MVS, in this case relating to encouraging involvement in athletics and providing increased support to student athletes.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Greetings Upper School Community:
As we continue with end-of-year celebrations for the 2010 academic year, I wanted to share some policy adjustments for the coming 2011 academic year, to which I have alluded in previous letters.
Taking into consideration the revised guidelines of the Ohio Department of Education, beginning next fall, all rising Freshmen and Sophomores will be required to participate in two seasons of involvement in the MVS athletic program. Physical education credit will no longer be granted for activities outside of MVS sports. Our non-cut policy, focus on good-sportsmanship and life-long fitness, and welcoming reputation for all of our sports have always encouraged students to join MVS teams, even with little previous experience. While programs at the varsity level will continue to focus on pursuing winning records by fielding competitive squads, encouraging student involvement at all levels contributes to the larger goals of supporting an active, healthy, and well-connected school community.
The upper school has always taken pride in the abundant opportunities for student involvement in the life of the school, ranging from athletics, the performing arts, clubs and organizations, and student government, to name a few. Upper school students traditionally participate in a wide variety of activities, contributing to the positive spirit of school community, strengthening the inter-connectedness across grade levels and between peer groups. Active extra-curricular involvement provides valuable lessons in time management, balance of interests, and expanding peer relationships, particularly for students new to the upper school. We are confident that requiring two seasons of athletic participation in MVS sports by the end of sophomore year, will strengthen these ties in the upper school.
Additionally, working closely with Ken Laake (Athletic Director) and our coaching staff, we have tested this year a more rigorous athletic eligibility policy. The new policy takes into consideration MVS’ primary focus on academics while balancing the important role of athletics, providing increased oversight and support to our student athletes. MVS has long believed that the OHSAA regulations (achieving passing grades in a minimum of 5 classes) have not appropriately reinforced the high academic standards that we promote at MVS.
The revised eligibility policy, which we have tested since the winter trimester, includes the following enhancements: students must achieve a minimum of a cumulative 2.0 GPA during the previous marking period, including no failures in any classes. During a current academic term and athletic season, if a student’s school work declines, according to mid-terms or from concerns raised by a teacher, parent, or advisor, that student will be placed on Academic Watch, requiring weekly up-dates from each class to provide a more attentive perspective of a student’s status.
Each Friday this winter and spring, Ken Laake and I have reviewed the weekly status reports, conferring to determine the extent of student athletes’ involvement for the following week’s athletic participation, sharing our decision directly with the student athlete, their parents, and the appropriate coach. The gradual implementation of the improved eligibility policy this year has provided ample evidence of greater academic responsibility in balancing the role of athletic involvement; teachers, coaches, and parents have been involved with individual decisions, leading to increased collective support of our student athletes. Having used two seasons to refine this policy, we will formally implement these changes beginning in August of the 2010-11 academic year.
As always, I welcome your feedback regarding these policy changes as we strive to provide greater support to students at MVS, in this case relating to encouraging involvement in athletics and providing increased support to student athletes.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Wagner's Graduation Ode to MVS Class of 2010
A Poetic Tribute to The MVS Class of 2010
Graduation Exercises: 3:00PM, 6 June - Victoria Theater
Greetings scholars, parents, faculty and friends
To Graduation Exercises, celebrating beginnings and ends.
In Dayton’s regal Victoria, for this anticipated event
My sincerest of welcomes, I am thrilled to present.
This Class of 2010, stylishly seated on stage
Hearty, personable; thirty-seven strong.
Your patient reprieve, I humbly request
As I depict traits and to whom they belong.
For the next hour or so, the outside world, let’s forget:
Bank collapses, “Lost” being found, & BP Crude Oil.
We’ll muse-over instead, Seniors’ futures ahead
Functioning as our blissful foil.
Their horizon is bound-less; expanding distant beyond;
Awaiting future responses, when as Alums, they’ll respond.
Countless prospects, defying mere expectation
Contemplating them now, brings us certain elation.
Your teachers, MVS faculty, here seated before you,
Dressed, like you, in academic attire.
At three-hours past the hour-of-Noon
Are so proud of the goals to which you aspire.
Look further in the seats. Find your family’s eyes,
Reflecting emotions, spanning melancholy to delight.
Though sad in departure, the time has arrived
For you each to soar high as a kite.
Caution alerted; I'm merely a cobbler of words.
In sculpting rhyme, expect the occasional lags.
Honoring you Seniors, as the fondest of fans,
The intent of this poem, crafted by “Wags.”
Thus, with collected resolve, I modestly begin.
On this celebrated sixth-day of June
As I attempt to describe, those seated behind
Representing their traits, lyrically festooned.
Beginning with “B”s, our first is JAKE BROWN;
On athletic fields, he leaves rivals in dazed comas.
He’s well-known for his scraggly-faced beard.
Soon his father, will present awaited diplomas.
BURDICK has preference for preppy attire,
By his peers, is regarded as quite jolly.
DESTINY, her future in clear-sight,
At UD, might play on courts basket and volley.
BAHAR displays obvious panache
Pursuing M.D. with never a stammer.
JULIAN shows his purposeful planning
If not Tech-guru, he’ll become true Captain Hammer.
ELAINA’s fleet-footed skill sprin-ting ‘round the track;
Causes competitors to shake heads in mystery.
SOPHIA always smiling, most pleasant in greeting
So very proud of her Grecian history.
SARAH & EMILY disprove clichés about twins.
Far and wide, these two independently have roamed.
Now heading-off to Universities starting with “D”
Many have wished they could be cloned.
Following twin sisters, we have a pair of Tylers:
MVS productions, EDWARDS commands light & sound.
FEARN, his characteristic mop of full-hair,
Future success by both soon will be found.
MAGGIE & SAM, during Immersion explored
Ancient Anatolia; as historians, went nearly berserk!
Savoring pottery shards & chatting in local phrase,
Showed respect to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
JENEE & PK, joined MVS in eleventh grade,
Quickly adapted, bringing their polish and gloss.
Actively involved in studio art & in sports,
On same field, they play soccer and lacrosse.
LAUREN with distinct creative style,
Through various mediums, she finds cohesion relative.
REBECCA while in Turkey, worried we were
That she might choose to “go-native.”
ROHAN, honored eldest sibling to twins,
Pursuing medicine; he is quite clear.
MARTIN, with impressively-full side burns,
Likely goal as future Engineer.
TIM & MACY, grow from proud MVS roots.
Hearty legacies they both will extend.
TIM, youngest of three Miller brothers
MACY’s design-eye, from her mother, descends.
SAYNA explores interest in psychology,
Elder sister to the sprite-like Asheev.
KINNARI countless discussions we’ve shared,
MVS Spirit award, she truly achieved.
KAT (paired with Kinn) leads Stu Gov with poise,
Skill on ice, causes audiences to look.
OLIVIA’s eye for artistic design
Adorns the cover of this year’s Thank You Book.
TAYLOR P. at home behind camera lens,
Sojourned abroad to immerse in culture Español.
CHRISTINA to England, becoming a Barrister.
They both join sisters in MVS alum-roles.
HAL-DAVID, skilled blender of song & image,
He produced our slideshow, worthy of bronze.
RAYCHEL, famed swimmer & journalist,
In Baltimore, she’ll shine at Hopkins, of Johns.
ERIKA, having mastered near every sport,
At Penn Relays, she took-up the race-walk.
TEREK, with goatee, he appears near middle-aged.
Proud he is of his Lebanese stock.
TAYLOR S. has gained prominent regard
As un-rivaled maven of topics automotive.
PHOEBE has innate passion for shopping;
A love of coffee, is also her votive.
KEVIN, good-natured & at-ease in outlook
Shares last name with a brook fish.
DANNY follows success in Model UN,
Looks now to medicine as his obvious wish.
Our final two Seniors, the most recent additions,
ANNE is heading to acclaimed University of “D.”
HANHAN from China, was welcomed this year
Her last name aptly begins with letter “Z.”
If my count be correct, that makes 37 in all;
Though small in number, they are in personality: LARGE!
My emotion aside, much confidence I derive
Imagining the world, that they will take charge.
So impressive you look, seated here on stage
Suspended in time, between high school & college.
Recalling back, while proceeding ahead
Sure to gain abundant future knowledge.
Nearly giddy am I, tears welling inside
Honoring you on this most glorious Sunday.
Be it as Teacher, Principal, or faithful true-fan
Sadness of your departure, I wish to delay.
In closing my verse, rhyme-scheme often perverse,
My poetics might be describes as, well, “janky.”
Imagining the void, of your departing with poise
Causes us all to reach for our hanky.
So join with me now, parents, teachers, family & friends
While celebrated, this chapter’s end soon we will reach.
Yet another page opens, new dreams yet to flourish
Clear possibilities, with lessons to teach.
The admiration from your audience, those seated before you,
Planning celebrations long into June.
Some final words, to recall this festive day,
God’s Speed, Be safe, And visit soon!
Thank you.
Samuel Wagner, V
Head of Upper School
Sunday, 6 June, 2010
Graduation Exercises: 3:00PM, 6 June - Victoria Theater
Greetings scholars, parents, faculty and friends
To Graduation Exercises, celebrating beginnings and ends.
In Dayton’s regal Victoria, for this anticipated event
My sincerest of welcomes, I am thrilled to present.
This Class of 2010, stylishly seated on stage
Hearty, personable; thirty-seven strong.
Your patient reprieve, I humbly request
As I depict traits and to whom they belong.
For the next hour or so, the outside world, let’s forget:
Bank collapses, “Lost” being found, & BP Crude Oil.
We’ll muse-over instead, Seniors’ futures ahead
Functioning as our blissful foil.
Their horizon is bound-less; expanding distant beyond;
Awaiting future responses, when as Alums, they’ll respond.
Countless prospects, defying mere expectation
Contemplating them now, brings us certain elation.
Your teachers, MVS faculty, here seated before you,
Dressed, like you, in academic attire.
At three-hours past the hour-of-Noon
Are so proud of the goals to which you aspire.
Look further in the seats. Find your family’s eyes,
Reflecting emotions, spanning melancholy to delight.
Though sad in departure, the time has arrived
For you each to soar high as a kite.
Caution alerted; I'm merely a cobbler of words.
In sculpting rhyme, expect the occasional lags.
Honoring you Seniors, as the fondest of fans,
The intent of this poem, crafted by “Wags.”
Thus, with collected resolve, I modestly begin.
On this celebrated sixth-day of June
As I attempt to describe, those seated behind
Representing their traits, lyrically festooned.
Beginning with “B”s, our first is JAKE BROWN;
On athletic fields, he leaves rivals in dazed comas.
He’s well-known for his scraggly-faced beard.
Soon his father, will present awaited diplomas.
BURDICK has preference for preppy attire,
By his peers, is regarded as quite jolly.
DESTINY, her future in clear-sight,
At UD, might play on courts basket and volley.
BAHAR displays obvious panache
Pursuing M.D. with never a stammer.
JULIAN shows his purposeful planning
If not Tech-guru, he’ll become true Captain Hammer.
ELAINA’s fleet-footed skill sprin-ting ‘round the track;
Causes competitors to shake heads in mystery.
SOPHIA always smiling, most pleasant in greeting
So very proud of her Grecian history.
SARAH & EMILY disprove clichés about twins.
Far and wide, these two independently have roamed.
Now heading-off to Universities starting with “D”
Many have wished they could be cloned.
Following twin sisters, we have a pair of Tylers:
MVS productions, EDWARDS commands light & sound.
FEARN, his characteristic mop of full-hair,
Future success by both soon will be found.
MAGGIE & SAM, during Immersion explored
Ancient Anatolia; as historians, went nearly berserk!
Savoring pottery shards & chatting in local phrase,
Showed respect to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
JENEE & PK, joined MVS in eleventh grade,
Quickly adapted, bringing their polish and gloss.
Actively involved in studio art & in sports,
On same field, they play soccer and lacrosse.
LAUREN with distinct creative style,
Through various mediums, she finds cohesion relative.
REBECCA while in Turkey, worried we were
That she might choose to “go-native.”
ROHAN, honored eldest sibling to twins,
Pursuing medicine; he is quite clear.
MARTIN, with impressively-full side burns,
Likely goal as future Engineer.
TIM & MACY, grow from proud MVS roots.
Hearty legacies they both will extend.
TIM, youngest of three Miller brothers
MACY’s design-eye, from her mother, descends.
SAYNA explores interest in psychology,
Elder sister to the sprite-like Asheev.
KINNARI countless discussions we’ve shared,
MVS Spirit award, she truly achieved.
KAT (paired with Kinn) leads Stu Gov with poise,
Skill on ice, causes audiences to look.
OLIVIA’s eye for artistic design
Adorns the cover of this year’s Thank You Book.
TAYLOR P. at home behind camera lens,
Sojourned abroad to immerse in culture Español.
CHRISTINA to England, becoming a Barrister.
They both join sisters in MVS alum-roles.
HAL-DAVID, skilled blender of song & image,
He produced our slideshow, worthy of bronze.
RAYCHEL, famed swimmer & journalist,
In Baltimore, she’ll shine at Hopkins, of Johns.
ERIKA, having mastered near every sport,
At Penn Relays, she took-up the race-walk.
TEREK, with goatee, he appears near middle-aged.
Proud he is of his Lebanese stock.
TAYLOR S. has gained prominent regard
As un-rivaled maven of topics automotive.
PHOEBE has innate passion for shopping;
A love of coffee, is also her votive.
KEVIN, good-natured & at-ease in outlook
Shares last name with a brook fish.
DANNY follows success in Model UN,
Looks now to medicine as his obvious wish.
Our final two Seniors, the most recent additions,
ANNE is heading to acclaimed University of “D.”
HANHAN from China, was welcomed this year
Her last name aptly begins with letter “Z.”
If my count be correct, that makes 37 in all;
Though small in number, they are in personality: LARGE!
My emotion aside, much confidence I derive
Imagining the world, that they will take charge.
So impressive you look, seated here on stage
Suspended in time, between high school & college.
Recalling back, while proceeding ahead
Sure to gain abundant future knowledge.
Nearly giddy am I, tears welling inside
Honoring you on this most glorious Sunday.
Be it as Teacher, Principal, or faithful true-fan
Sadness of your departure, I wish to delay.
In closing my verse, rhyme-scheme often perverse,
My poetics might be describes as, well, “janky.”
Imagining the void, of your departing with poise
Causes us all to reach for our hanky.
So join with me now, parents, teachers, family & friends
While celebrated, this chapter’s end soon we will reach.
Yet another page opens, new dreams yet to flourish
Clear possibilities, with lessons to teach.
The admiration from your audience, those seated before you,
Planning celebrations long into June.
Some final words, to recall this festive day,
God’s Speed, Be safe, And visit soon!
Thank you.
Samuel Wagner, V
Head of Upper School
Sunday, 6 June, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Last Day of Classes, Spring Exams, & Senior Celebrations
Friday, 28 May 2010
Greetings Upper School Parents:
Good golly, where has the time gone?!? While our Seniors are involved in transition day activities, today is the final day of classes in the Upper School, with spring term exams occurring Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. As I mentioned earlier this week, the spring term final exam schedule is available on the upper school homepage of the MVS website. Since Freshmen and Sophomores do not have open campus privileges during exams, a student will only be permitted to depart from campus if they present a written note from a parent ahead of time.
As students complete end-of-year events, exams, and activities, please remind your child to return library books and clean out her or his locker. Beginning Monday, 7 June, the custodial crew will start emptying and disposing of any items still remaining in student lockers as part of the summer cleaning process.
The 2010 MVS Graduation Advertisement will appear in this Sunday’s edition of the Dayton Daily News, in the special Graduation Section. You can view a PDF version of the newspaper advertisement on the upper school homepage.
And end-of-year at MVS would simply not be complete without attending two of the most traditional spring events: Academic Awards and Graduation. Academic Awards, held on Thursday, 3 June at 7:PM in the Lane Gymnasium, is required for all upper school students, high-lighting college and departmental book awards, most notably presentations to students, composed and read by upper school teachers. Graduation Exercises, held on Sunday, 6 June at 3:PM at the Victoria Theater, continues MVS’ traditional focus on student-centered events, including student speeches and performances. I look forward to seeing you at these two “distinctively MVS events."
As always, the archives to all letters and e.mails sent from my office is available on my Blog at http://wagnersmvsblog.blogspot.com/; I welcome your comments and feedback.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
Greetings Upper School Parents:
Good golly, where has the time gone?!? While our Seniors are involved in transition day activities, today is the final day of classes in the Upper School, with spring term exams occurring Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. As I mentioned earlier this week, the spring term final exam schedule is available on the upper school homepage of the MVS website. Since Freshmen and Sophomores do not have open campus privileges during exams, a student will only be permitted to depart from campus if they present a written note from a parent ahead of time.
As students complete end-of-year events, exams, and activities, please remind your child to return library books and clean out her or his locker. Beginning Monday, 7 June, the custodial crew will start emptying and disposing of any items still remaining in student lockers as part of the summer cleaning process.
The 2010 MVS Graduation Advertisement will appear in this Sunday’s edition of the Dayton Daily News, in the special Graduation Section. You can view a PDF version of the newspaper advertisement on the upper school homepage.
And end-of-year at MVS would simply not be complete without attending two of the most traditional spring events: Academic Awards and Graduation. Academic Awards, held on Thursday, 3 June at 7:PM in the Lane Gymnasium, is required for all upper school students, high-lighting college and departmental book awards, most notably presentations to students, composed and read by upper school teachers. Graduation Exercises, held on Sunday, 6 June at 3:PM at the Victoria Theater, continues MVS’ traditional focus on student-centered events, including student speeches and performances. I look forward to seeing you at these two “distinctively MVS events."
As always, the archives to all letters and e.mails sent from my office is available on my Blog at http://wagnersmvsblog.blogspot.com/; I welcome your comments and feedback.
With sincere regards,
Sam Wagner
Head of Upper School
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