By Iesha Toft
S-N Contributor
Reflections of the school year
CC/E teachers look back at first year as elementary-only district
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Maverick staff came together to paint the classrooms, hallways and offices of the elementary school building when classes were dismissed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As Clay Central/Everly Elementary classrooms are swept clean and the Zoom classes cease, the district's teachers reflect on the twists and turns that made this year an interesting, yet rewarding, one for them and their students.
What makes you passionate and proud to work at Clay Central/Everly?
Mary Ann Jobst: Our district works towards creating powerful learners. CC/E has a strong team of caring teachers that continually work towards designing engaging learning experiences for all students. All K-6 students have a daily reading block of 90-120 minutes. Each student who is not yet at grade level standards is engaged in rigorous core and targeted interventions with a certified teacher.
In addition to a strong reading and math program other learning experiences include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activities. STEM allows students to draw connections across all content areas and teaches students how to think differently and use critical thinking through hands-on activities. CC/E learning opportunities outside of school include Outdoor Classroom Day at Lost Island Nature Center, second grade Henry Doorly Zoo trip and field trips to area businesses.
CC/E curriculum includes music and art lessons. CC/E is a 1:1 school where every student in the district has use of a digital device. We have a strong PBIS program that promotes a positive learning environment, teaches and reinforces appropriate behaviors, and works towards providing a safe place for all students.
Betsy Schoelerman: CC/E is a family. Our staff cares about each other and all of our students. During the COVID-19 break, our staff has not only been busy facilitating online learning, but also handing out lunches daily to students and children in our community along with tackling repainting of the majority of the classrooms in our school. The amount of hours our staff put into making our school great is second to none.
Lori Larson: I have always felt proud to be a teacher at CC/E because it is where I grew up. It is my home. It is a family that works together to be the best we can be. It is a school that offers unique opportunities that bigger schools cannot.
Tayla Coady: CC/E has incredible students and a fantastic staff! It really does feel like family at CC/E.
How have you overcome obstacles and found pride and joy in y our 2019-2020 school year?
Mary Ann Jobst: We overcome obstacles as a team. That's why I love working at CC/E! During the closure, we teachers did not stop working. It just looked a little different.
When students were not allowed to return on March 16, the CC/E staff began plans on how to support families educationally and emotionally. With the help of local businesses we found ways to support families with technology. We created and provided lessons and materials in a variety of ways, some of which included using Zoom and Google Classrooms, creating learning packets, writing letters to students, etc. We created and participated in the "Spreading the Maverick Spirit" parade and we served lunches daily. Teachers attended Zoom meetings every Tuesday and Friday with Mr. Busch. Our discussions included COVID-19 support for families, improvement with report cards, vertical articulation of the Iowa Core, and trainings with Mrs. Vasher on implementation of new EL Education curriculum.
Teachers have continued to learn by taking online classes as well. During the COVID-19 pandemic, teachers also worked on the CC/E To-Do List. Some teachers, along with Mr. Busch and Diane White, painted the entryway, offices and seven classrooms We have been cleaning out rooms, organizing the Maker Space and completing other projects on the list.
Tayla Coady: Although we didn't plan on this school year going the way it did, we all came together for our students. From teaching online to serving lunches to the drive by parade, our No. 1 priority was always – and always will be – our students.
What memorable moments can you recall from this school year?
Mary Ann Jobst: Opening Day with the students, the Royal and Everly firetrucks, and the raising of the flag; Outdoor Classroom at Lost Island Nature Center; seeing the gym come to life as the floors were redone and the walls painted; the creation of our Maker Space that provides a variety of STEM activities; watching students become readers; and Love and Logic Parent Night."
Betsy Schoelerman: Santa visiting during the annual Christmas program.
Lori Larson: Planting bulbs and flowers in the Nature Learning Center. Creating snowman baseballs with the second graders to help pay for our zoo trip.
Tayla Coady: One of the most memorable moments from this school year was the first day of school with all of the students. It was my first day of school as their teacher, so it was really fun to share in our excitement for the school year.
Lori Key: I enjoyed snowshoeing with the naturalist at Oneota Park. It was fun to see the students put their hearts and energy in the adventure. We were happily exhausted!
What do you look forward to in the coming school year?
Mary Ann Jobst: The students returning to class!
Betsy Schoelerman: A new, brighter look to many of our classrooms. Several teachers have changed rooms and most have been repainted. We can't wait for our students to see what we've done!
Lori Larson: Being together! Sharing with my students the new technology, apps and picture books that I have learned from the classes I have been taking during this no school time."
Tayla Coady: I'm looking forward to connecting with all of the students again. I miss their smiles and energy!
Do you have any summer advice for your elementary students?
Mary Ann Jobst: Take time to read some fiction and nonfiction books this summer!
Betsy Schoelerman: Explore the outdoors! There is lots of learning to be done outside. You can even read a book outside!
Lori Larson: Read and have fun outside!
Tayla Coady: Continue to explore, learn something new each day and get outside and enjoy the summer sun!
Would you like to say anything to the would-be CC/E senior class of 2020 that just graduated from other districts?
Mary Ann Jobst: You received your elementary education as a Maverick! That education has helped prepare you for the next chapter of life. Continue to use those skills wisely and make your dreams come true. We are very proud of each and every one of you! The CC/E staff wishes you the very best!
Betsy Schoelerman: What a story you have to tell! You have persevered through so much in the last year and I am proud to know you all. You've used your Maverick Spirit to walk in the door of a new school, make new friends and embrace new experiences. None of this was easy for any of us, least of all you. Keep up the good work and best wishes for a bright future. Remember – Once a Maverick, Always a Maverick!"
Lori Larson: I agree with Betsy. You are strong and amazing! Once a Maverick, Always a Maverick!
Tayla Coady: Congratulations! You've worked hard to earn this accomplishment!
For interested families, parents and potential students considering Clay Central/Everly Elementary, what would you encourage them to consider or remember while they search for their "perfect school"?
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Clay Central/Everly Elementary staff members put together to-go sack lunches that they handed out daily to students and children in the district when school closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mary Ann Jobst: Come check us out! Caring, knowledgeable staff, small class sizes gets your child more individualized attention, and 1:1 technology.
Lori Larson: Visit our school, check out the technology, STEM-Maker's Space, updated building and our Nature Learning Center. I believe people would be surprised at what CC/E can offer.
Tayla Coady: CC/E offers small class sizes and teachers who are invested in the benefit of students. We strive to offer the very best education to our students and families by going the extra mile. At CC/E, teachers know the student by name and begin making connections from day one. We offer one-to-one technology for our students and use it to make education meaningful while also building 21st Century skills. We have a dedicated staff with many years' experience. Any student would be lucky to attend CC/E.
