Posted by Susan Leetch
His plan is aggressive. With 10,500 students in the district and only 6,200 enrolled in the Youngstown system, the revitalization plan to restructure the district and create a system of schools is imperative. These students deserve to learn, live and work successfully. Change is difficult but "we cannot afford to continue doing what we have always done. The plan was designed around the needs of our students. It starts on the first day of school and continues until graduation day." Middle School Students: will encompass two 6-7th grade academies located at Volney and Wilson. Parents will be notified by letter regarding student assignments. P. Ross Berry will become an 8-9th grade academy. This secure academy will focus on academic rigor, social-emotional support and behavior expectations. Teachers will interview and be selected for this school. Interviews and/or audition for acceptance in grades 6-12 on the Chaney campus will be required for the Visual Performing Arts Program. Interview for acceptance in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics programs will also be required. A student interest application form will be mailed and students will have the opportunity to select a program or school. If the program requires an audition or interview, families will be notified of acceptance by the end of May 2011. Safety and security of the students will be one of the highest priorities. Dr. Hathorn asks for patience as the details are all worked out. "This is a major change and we have a lot of work yet to do."
President Susan Leetch called the meeting to order, asking Jerry Haber to lead invocation, pledge and God Bless America.

Visitors: Guests were Attorney Robert Price, and Toni Fuzo Administrator for Meridian Arms and special guest, Dr. Connie Hathorn, Superintendent, Youngstown School District.

Song Leader: Robin Stock (Dolly) led us in "The More We Get Together". Did well.

Jokester: Jerry Haber donning the hat of Gary, told a joke about the excuses written by parents from a Tennessee School District.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

* Deanna reported on the First Division Meeting with 6 Clubs participating.

* Looking for a Host Family for an Italian Exchange Student.

* April 29-30 District Conference. You can still register on the website.

* A pickup truck is needed to transport our Rotary wheel. Contact Susan for info.

* Display boards will be at the conference also our scrapbooks.

* Thanks to Gary Reel for the great job on the Mentor Day Project. Everyone enjoyed it. Good job!!! - no Great job!!!

* Ron Carroll reported on the Leadership Conference - 23 attended from the District. This is the first of 3 sessions. It covers leadership, Rotary and beyond, membership involvement, team building and service projects.

* Roadside Cleanup went well. Heather, Mitch, Brian, Gary, the Interact Advisor and students - 10 in all were involved on the project.

* Interact is collecting food for the food pantry.

* May 23 - Golf Outing to benefit Multiple Sclerosis * Golf Outing - Canfield Club, June 13 at Salem Hills

* Brian Frederick reported on Relay for Life June 10 & 11. We have our site for the tent and will have electric. Bands, Movies, morning stretch, survivor's dinner all planned. Help needed to setup and serve. Signups needed.

* Gary Reel has a new grandson. Congratulations!!! This makes 8.

OFFICERS: Chuck Baker announced nominations for Club Officers: President, Deanna Spirko; VP Ron Carroll; Secretary Hillary Prestridge; Treasurer Brian Frederick; Club Service Mark Cole; Community Service Dave Buttar; Vocational Service Vince Colaluca; International Jennifer Connolly. Moved and seconded to approve the roster.

ROTARY MINUTE: Chuck Baker informed us that in the first part of the existence of the United States, we had a total of 7 presidents....and George wasn't the first.

FELLOWSHIP: Frank was last in, Brian Laraway elected President of the Business Networking International Division. Carol and Mitch for not knowing answers to history quiz.

RAFFLE: Robin Stock won the little one - lost the biggie.

PROGRAM: Youngstown School Superintendent, Dr. Connie Hathorn was our honored guest speaker.

His plan is aggressive. With 10,500 students in the district and only 6,200 enrolled in the Youngstown system, the revitalization plan to restructure the district and create a system of schools is imperative. These students deserve to learn, live and work successfully.

Change is difficult but "we cannot afford to continue doing what we have always done. The plan was designed around the needs of our students. It starts on the first day of school and continues until graduation day." Middle School Students: will encompass two 6-7th grade academies located at Volney and Wilson. Parents will be notified by letter regarding student assignments.

P. Ross Berry will become an 8-9th grade academy. This secure academy will focus on academic rigor, social-emotional support and behavior expectations. Teachers will interview and be selected for this school. Interviews and/or audition for acceptance in grades 6-12 on the Chaney campus will be required for the Visual Performing Arts Program. Interview for acceptance in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics programs will also be required. A student interest application form will be mailed and students will have the opportunity to select a program or school. If the program requires an audition or interview, families will be notified of acceptance by the end of May 2011. Safety and security of the students will be one of the highest priorities. Dr. Hathorn asks for patience as the details are all worked out. "This is a major change and we have a lot of work yet to do."