The Eye Spy - School and Statewide Outreach Serving ... 04 Eye...The Eye Spy Inside this issue: ......

Wisconsin Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired

April, 2008 ~ Volume 8, Issue 3

The Eye Spy

Inside this issue:

It has been a long winter for everyone and everything, even our Sensory Garden. On Friday, May 16th, a group of volunteers from the Rock County Master Gardeners group will be joining our students for “A Day in the Sensory Garden”. The event will be held rain or shine. This day will be devoted to cleaning up the entire Sensory Garden, mulching, moving gravel and cobblestones and getting the soil prepared for planting. Teachers and students will be participating through in-class lessons as well as participating in the outdoor portion of the Day in the Garden. We are really looking forward to the new and improved Sensory Garden!

A Day in the Sensory Garden ~ Friday, May 16

Spring Concert, Awards 2 HOTSPOTS 11

Student of the Month 3 Cheerleading 12

Principal’s Letter 4 Forensics 13

Director’s Corner 6 Goalball 14

AAWSVH Blues Concert 7 Swimming 16

Residential Living 8 Braille Olympics 18

Editorial, Friends Club 9 Music Festival 19

Archery

Summer Programs

Staff Recognition

Student Article

2008-2009 Calendar

Calendar of Events

Birthdays

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

Residential Life Poem 10 Library, Health Center 20 Mission 28

The Sensory Garden has gone from this... ... to this! Spring has finally Sprung!

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On May 29, 2008, the WSVH music department will perform our annual spring concert in the school’s auditorium at 6:30 PM. You will have an opportunity to hear many of the pieces the students performed at the State Solo and Ensemble competition in Beloit (see page 19) and much more. As in the past few years, our middle school music classes will open the program with some of our favorite songs learned throughout the school year. Our school choir will close the program with two or three selections of varying moods. Come and give your highly appreciated support to all concert participants. See you on May 29!

And the Music Goes Round and Round

The Awards Program will be held on June 13 at 9:30 am. Family members are invited to remain on campus for the Awards Banquet following the ceremony. Students will be presented with academic and sports awards, among others. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our students!

Awards Program

If you would like to attend the above programs and eat the meals provided at WSVH, please RSVP by May 22 for the Spring Concert and by June 5 for the Awards Program to WSVH Education Program Assistant Michelle Solem. You can email her at [email protected] or call her at 1-800-832-9784 ext 3, 1 or 608-758-6110 ext 2. Calling ahead by the deadline ensures that we know how much food to prepare to welcome you and your family.

Parents may transport their student home following the awards program. Regular transportation will also run. If you plan to take your child home on June 13, please let Sue Kokko, Dean of Students, know by June 6 so we can notify the bus company. Sue can be reached at 800-832-9784 ext 4, 1 or 608-758-6159 or [email protected].

Please RSVP for these Programs!

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The SOTM has become a pretty special award amongst our students. They look forward to their reward or time with our Principal Mr. Byrnes on a special outing, usually to their favorite restaurant. Students also like the recognition they receive by being recognized with an award certificate, picture with Mr. Byrnes and their teacher, and, if appropriate, an article sent with their picture for their local newspapers.

Our December SOTM was Michael Bastillo, an elementary student. He was nominated for always being willing to work to the best of his ability and for his ever present positive attitude. He brings a smile to everyone’s face.

Our January SOTM was Quinn Haberl, a high school student. He was nominated for his respectful nature to both students and staff, being a good role model, and being a student leader. Quinn always looks to be helpful in any way he can.

A big congratulations goes to all of these students for their accomplishments!

April has been a big month for the SOTM award because it was decided to nominate a student from each of the elementary, middle, and high school grades. The year-end SOTM winners will be announced in our next Eye Spy.

Ms. Sharon Saltz, Michael, Mr. Pat Byrnes

Students of the Month ~ Ms. Michelle King

Mr. Byrnes and Quinn

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Letter from the Principal ~ Mr. Pat Byrnes

Good Day, All:

Hard to believe – Finally Springtime. This has been a LONG winter and everyone is chomping at the bit to get outside. As the snow completes melting and the outdoor areas dry up, we would like to send the students outdoors during the lunch period. Please send weather appropriate clothes to school with your child(ren). Any time the air temperature is below 60 degrees, we require either a jacket or a sweatshirt be worn to go out of doors. Thank you for your cooperation.

We had a very busy winter. We hosted our annual winter program in December. All of the students and faculty involves spent a great number of hours preparing and by the night of the performance you could definitely tell. It was a most wonderful success. I offer my congratulations to all participants.

January brought to life our wresting team and cheer squad. The conference meet was held here in Janesville. Congrats go out to all of our athletes. One of our cheerleaders, Lee Wilson, competed in the “Outstanding Cheerleader” competition and took first place. Our cheer squad completed against eleven other schools and took first place. I would also congratulate our Wresting team. We had three students compete and they walked away with two third place and one fifth place finish. Way to go Badgers! You can watch the competition on our website at WWW.WCBVI.K12.WI.US.

We just completed our final extra-curricular season this month. Our swim and forensics teams traveled to Kansas, Illinois and Minnesota before hosting the Wisconsin Relays on April 18 & 19.

By the time you read this our third quarter will have ended and you will have already received the third quarter grades for your student. Please remember that there is still time for improvement if necessary. Encourage your student to end the school year on a positive note, doing the best that they can to get the best grade that they can in each and every class.

We will be sending out the class requests for your child(ren) soon. Watch for a separate mailing. We are in the process of planning some special events for the last week of school and will also be sending out a schedule of those special events in the not too distant future.

Keep in mind that we will be offering the SAT again this year. Our Guidance Counselor, Kim Heimerl, will be the proctor for the exam. We have also had students taking the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Evaluations (WKCE) and the Wisconsin Alternate Assessments (WAA). We are currently awaiting results of those tests.

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Thank you to the parents and students for all your hard work throughout this school year. We look forward to a fine finish for the school year, and very exciting summer programs. As always, please do not hesitate to call me if you have any questions or comments.

Patrick Byrnes 800-832-9784 ~ 608-758-6120 ~ [email protected]

Colton A by the WSVH sign.

From Snow...

...To Spring!

Kim R with the Happy Snow Bush.

First crocuses in the Sensory Garden - growing

in the rose bushes!

Enjoying the WSVH playground!

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In February I had the opportunity to expose some of our students to one of my favorite styles of music: Blues. Appropriately, since it was Black History Month, almost all the musicians we studied were African-American. While these talented musicians came from different parts of the country, sang diverse styles of blues music and played different instruments, they all had two things in common: blindness and a will to succeed.

Many of the singers we studied lived in a time when racism was prevalent and few opportunities were available to the blind in the United States. Despite these challenges, the musicians successfully plied their trade throughout the United States and abroad. Many earned fame and a measure of fortune while others suffered in obscurity, never to receive their due until after their death. The songs were often autobiographical, providing us with a hint of what it was like to live as an itinerant musician through whispered lyrics, a shuffling guitar or a wailing harmonica. Life was hard, but it was clear from the recordings that these blind musicians had the spirit and independence needed to overcome the challenges. Many of these musicians were pioneers in the field of music, securing their place in history through their singing, songwriting and expert musicianship. Others continue to soldier on to this day, developing their legend through hundreds of concerts a year supplemented by the release of new recordings.

I think the students (and staff) involved in the lessons enjoyed the music while learning about an important part of black history and culture. I hope our students who are blind or have low vision also learned that technology and increased opportunity cannot replace ambition, practice and hard work. I look forward to seeing how our students develop and apply their skills and talents to successfully meet their goals. I can even suggest some great music to keep time during their journey.

Here are the artists featured in the lesson, in case you want to take a listen: Sleepy John Estes: He certainly "cried" the blues. Blind Lemon Jefferson: His guitar playing influenced countless musicians. Blind Willie McTell: Bob Dylan wrote a song in tribute to this master of the slide. Sonny Terry (with Brownie McGhee): Made that harmonica wail. Sam Myers (with Anson Funderburgh and Rockets): Was a blues harp master. Snooks Eaglin: "The Human Juke Box"- New Orleans style. Bryan Lee: This former WSVH student can sing and play with the best of 'em. Ray Charles: The "Genius" needs no introduction. He could do it all.

Dan Wenzel, Director, Wisconsin Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (608) 758-4925 ~ 1-800-832-9784 ~ email: [email protected]

From the Director’s Desk

The Alumni Association of the Wisconsin School for the Visually Handicapped will be sponsoring a blues concert on Thursday, May 15, at 7:00 pm. The concert will be held at the:

Pontiac Convention Center ~ 2809 N. Pontiac Drive ~ Janesville, WI 53545 608-531-0284 ~ www.pontiaccc.com.

The concert will feature Bryan Lee and the Blues Power Band. Bryan is a former WSVH student who attended school here from 1955-1960. Some of us alums have fond memories of sitting on the lawn and listening to him and some of his buddies practice. More info about Bryan can be found on his website at www.braillebluesdaddy.com.

Well, Bryan moved to New Orleans, and has his own band. They have recorded eleven CDs. Although I am not a real connoisseur of the blues, Mr. Wenzel tells me that they are very good, and this is a concert he does not intend to miss. We also plan to have Bryan come to WSVH on May 16th to speak with our students.

We are currently selling tickets at $20 apiece. At the door they will be $25, so be sure to get yours before that night. A cash bar will be available and hors d'oeuvres will be served.

There will also be a silent auction, so be sure to check on this at the Convention Center. We hope that many of you can attend, and that you will bring your family and friends. You can contact Karen Heesen or any other Alumni member to purchase tickets.

The other fund raiser I would like to remind you of is the key chains, which feature the grandfather clock which stands in the front lobby of our school. This is a nice metal replica, with WSVH in print and braille, on the back. Each key chain sells for $10 and will benefit the Alumni's many projects relating to our school and its students--past and present.

You can purchase either tickets or key chains from me at any time. Thanks to those of you who have supported us in the past, and thank you, in advance, for supporting this very special event. We value you, as friends of the Alumni.

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Alumni Association of WSVH ~ Ms. Karen Heesen

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Welcome Spring! Everyone in the dorms is glad to see the grass, warmer weather and no snow! Our students are eager to get outside and ride their bikes, roller blade and use their skate boards. On nicer days, the play ground is “calling” to the boys to come out and romp. Students are using their Mobility Passes to travel to Mocha Moments, Stop and Go and other destinations. It was a long, snowy winter. We are glad that it is over and we know that the school year will be over before we know it.

What’s going on in the dorms? The Arts & Entertainers Club is active and continues to participate in open mic night at Mocha Moments. Open swim on Wednesday night is a popular recreation activity, as is 4-H. The new social club “FRIENDS” is teaching our students valuable new skills. SMILES has started its Spring Session with four participants and Special Olympics Basketball is over for the year. Samantha R. received a second place finish at the Special Olympics State Basketball Tournament. Go Samantha! Great job!

We have students moving in and out of our dorms all the time. Sometimes students return to their home districts and others join us for Short Courses or evaluations. Two of our younger boys are moving out of state. I think the cold winter chased Marty and Hunter and their families south. Rick R. is spending 6 weeks in the dorms. His home is in Superior. He is now the furthest traveling student. Another Short Course student has joined us from Fond du Lac. Making new friends is all part of the dorm life experience.

This past month Quinn H. and Richie D. spent a couple of weeks living independently in the LIFEhouse. Both boys enjoyed the responsibility of this experience. Two girls (Kim G. and Kim R.) will be moving into the LIFEhouse in May. During the last couple of months, some of our high school students have had the opportunity to reside in our dorm apartments. This is the initial step in gaining more independence in the area of Life Skills.

Our big social event of the year, the Prom, will be held on Saturday, May 17th. This year’s event will be held on Lake Geneva. We will be having a dinner cruise and dance on a Tour Boat. We are crossing our fingers that the evening will be a lovely, warm night with a full moon rising over the lake. We will be sending home invitations and permission slips soon.

A Glance at Residential Living ~ Mrs. Sue Kokko

Quinn at the LIFEhouse

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A new feature, each month a staff member or student will have a featured editorial on a hot topic. This month, our Dean of Students Sue Kokko has chosen to weigh in on cell phones.

Most of my co-workers and many of our students know about my concern of over use and abuse of cell phones by our teen age students. It is my belief that many of students spend an extreme amount of time on their phones during the evening (and hopefully not night time) hours. It is difficult for our staff to monitor these phone calls and we have to have faith that our students are using good judgment with whom they are choosing to communicate. Phone etiquette and good manners often are ignored and social interactions with other students in the dorms suffer.

I believe in personal freedom. I too have a cell phone on my person at all times, but I use it only for emergency purposes, not as the main conduit for my social interactions. Maybe our students’ parents could review their child’s cell phone bills and note the number of minutes spent talking, when the calls are occurring and to whom the calls are being made and received. I liked talking on the phone to my friends when I was a teenager (a very long time ago), but there were limits on the time. Homework had to be completed and my grades had to reflect that I was taking school seriously. Today it seems like cell phone usage has become a necessity and not a privilege. I am not suggesting a ban on cell phones. Perhaps we need to take a responsible look at how they are being used. What do you think? I am interested in hearing from students, parents and staff.

Sue Kokko, Dean of Students 1-800-832-9784 ~ 608-758-6159 ~ [email protected]

Editorial Corner ~ Ms. Sue Kokko

“FRIENDS” stands for Friends Reaching Independence Establishing Noteworthy Developing Social Skills. This is a new Social Skills Club for Students in the dorms. We form small groups of students and meet once a week.

Our goal is to teach students the necessary social skills to be able to use appropriate and safe behavior according to their capabilities whether out in public or at home.

At the end of three months the students will complete the FRIENDS Program and they will receive a certificate of completion.

FRIENDS ~ Ms. Lucy Tredway

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Snow, snow, please go away, You’ve well overdone your unwelcome stay! All the dorm kids would like to play, So let the wet grass dry up today. We wish and wish with all out might To swing on swings and ride on bikes. Although it seems spring refuses to come, We’ve still found ways to have our fun! The gym works alright for basketball, Dancing, and skating, but watch out for the wall! The Badger’s Den held costume parties, Valentine dances, and Sadie Hawkins. Lower boys’ dorm hosted Christmas Tea With Mr. Tyrell, music, and treats. Winter Warm-Up in the girls’ dorm Brought real carriage rides that made our hearts warm. Every week, there’s plenty to do: 4-H and swim and open weight room. Art club and SMILES are sadly now over, But EFNEP and yoga live on in girls’ lower. There’re library trips and our new social club. Our “Artists and Entertainers” perform twice a month. Some of us shot hoops at Special Olympics; Sam and Cody made State, how terrific! If you still think we had nothing to do, We hosted NC’s for 12 different schools. Buses and vans took us great places Like U of Whitewater and the Brewers’

Stadium. Music Festival, Adler, and Yerkes; We all found something that suited our purpose. And if we’re still bored, we go to the lounge; Our new Wii systems are fun all around! The LIFEhouse provided a quiet retreat To Richie and Quinn, who stayed for 2 weeks. Of course, we still study and sleep and eat, But that’s nothing special to share with our readers! Prom and the Street Dance will be coming soon. Swim and Forensics are already in bloom. SMILES is ready to start up again, And the horses would like the snow to end. So please, Blue Sky, enough of this snow! The houseparents are sick of slippery rides home. If it snows one more week, we might drive them crazy! Cabin fever has made us all far from lazy. If we drive the dormparents straight up the wall, Who will be here to care for us all? We plead one more time, enough of this snow, We’d all be too much for only Ms. Kokko!

A Residential Living Poem ~ Ms. Crystal Krachtt

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This year one of our Child Care Counselors, Mr. Russ White, has developed an Arts and Entertainers Club band called “HOTSPOTS”. The band name is an acronym for “Helping Our Talented Students Perform Outside The School”. HOTSPOTS plays at Mocha Moments’ open mic night on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Call the dorm for details, and please come watch the performances!

The current lineup is:

Mr. Russ - guitar, Joe Scheunemann - lead guitar, David Howard - vocals and keyboards, Colton Albrecht -trumpet, Mark Doering - guitar and vocals, Quinn Haberl - vocals, Margaret Williams - vocals, Anna L - vocals, Maggie Fitzwilliams - vocals, Kim Robinson - vocals, Jenna Antreassian - vocals and percussion, Genna Pobanz - vocals, YenYu L - keyboards.

As you can see they have a big line up, and are working towards everyone having a lead vocal in at least one song. A&E currently do Classic rock, Modern rock, Country and some modern Christian and what ever else they can figure out.

Some of the songs are: Sweet Child of Mine, Keep Rockin’ in the Free World, Ridin’ the Storm Out, Summer of ‘69, Grace Like Rain, Sullivan, Maggie May, Horse With No Name, Jack and Diane, Rocky Mountain High, Roll with the Changes, God of Wonders, Soak up the Sun.

HOTSPOTS ~ Mr. Russ White

Our award-winning team! Front row: Genna P, Kim R, Maggie F

Back Row: Chase P, Jelly H, Tauri R, Trish M, Kim G, Lee W, Mascot: Joe S

Lee W shows one of his

moves from his routine.

Kim R, Trish M and Tauri R support Jelly H.

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What a great year to be on the cheer squad! The team of Angelica Hope, Tauri Ramsey, Kim Robinson, Genna Pobanz, Tricia Milberger, Kim Greer, Maggie Fitzwilliams, Lee Wilson and Chase Pruitt placed First at NC's this year followed by Tennessee in second and Kansas in third. The squad performed a routine of stunts, a dance and a cheer to place First against twelve other schools from our conference. The months of hard practice, motivation and raising the bar to perform a harder routine paid off. Lee Wilson, representing Wisconsin for outstanding cheerleader, also brought home a First place trophy, out-placing the rest of the competition. Lee's athletic and gymnastic ability was amazing, as was his dancing. Wisconsin hosted NC's this year, so of course the team enjoyed all the support they received. Congratulations to the whole team!!! I couldn't be prouder of what you accomplished this year!

WSVH Cheerleaders and Outstanding Cheerleader Take First at NC’s!!! ~ Ms. Pam Benzel, Cheer Coach

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The WSVH Forensics Team was busy with competition during the month of April. On the 4th they left for a competition in Kansas, the 9th they were in IL, and on the 11th they were scheduled for a meet in MN. Snow (what a surprise for this winter) caused that meet to be cancelled.

The weekend of April 18th found the team here at WSVH, ready to compete in the WI Relays. Forensics competition was on Friday night, the 18th, with swim held the morning of the 19th. We were thrilled to have former students, parents, and friends join us to cheer on both of the teams.

On April 25, we boarded the bus for the NCASB Conference meet in Jacksonville, IL. The competition was between 11 schools for the blind--IL, IN, IO, KS, KY, MN, MO, OH, SD, and WI. Students always enjoy getting to see friends from other states, and having a chance to renew acquaintances. Add to this some good, stiff competition, and you have the makings of an enjoyable, challenging tournament for all.

This year’s forensics team included 12 students—Mark Doering, Maggie Fitzwilliams, Kimberly Greer, Quinn Haberl, David Howard, Amelia King, Anna L., Genna Pobanz, Kimberly Robinson, Joe Scheunemann, Margaret Williams, and Lee Wilson. We are pleased to report that, of the 10 categories entered at NC’s, our team placed in 8. Those receiving medals were: Anna L., 4th place in her 4-minute speech; Genna Pobanz, 4th place in Farrago; Kimberly Robinson and Margaret Williams, 3rd place in duo acting; Quinn Haberl, 3rd place in Impromptu Speaking; Kimberly Greer, 3rd place in Humorous Interpretation; Amelia King, 2nd place in Serious Prose; Maggie Fitzwilliams, 2nd place in her 8-minute speech; and David Howard, 1st place in Humorous Prose. The points earned by these students gave us an overall team score

of 73—enough to bring home a 3rd-place trophy. Needless to say, both the students and their coaches were ecstatic; we didn’t know whether to laugh or cry!

Mrs. Hudziak and I count it a privilege to have had the opportunity to coach this fine group of young people. They are a great group of kids, and we knew they could do it! Hopefully this experience has made the taste of victory so strong in their mouths that they will repeat this fine performance again next year. Go Badgers!

On the Road, Again ~ Ms. Karen Heesen

Front row: Anna L, Margaret W, Maggie F, Genna P

Back row: Coach Kathy Hudziak, Kim R, Jenna A, David H, Joe S, Mark D, Coach Karen Heesen

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Boys Goalball Team Wrap Up:

The 2008 Goalball season can best be described as a building year. Only two players from last year’s team returned, which left us room for a lot of new ones. On the team were veterans Joe Scheunemann, and Charles Burke, who were joined by Codi Langer, Mark Doering, Zach Farrow-Schmidt and Hunter Jozwiak. During the games, Joe and Codi often traded off at center, with Mark and Charles alternating at wing. Zach contributed to our trip to Illinois, and Hunter began to really learn the game.

The best part of the goalball season was the growth that is occurring in the program. Because of numbers, we held separate practices for our boys and girls teams, the boys coached by Dave Hyde, and the girls by Diana Brower. Both teams participated in meets at Ohio, Illinois, and Kentucky. Despite continuous improvement from game to game, the boys’ team remained winless for the season.

At the level of participation we had this year, we will have a better and more experienced team participating during 2009.

Girls Goalball Team Wrap Up:

The girls goalball team had a great "building" year. Those participating on the team increased from 3 to 8, with 6 players filling out the competitive team. Team members were YenYu L., Samantha Ratkowski, Stacy Novak, Anna L., Amelia King, Kim Robinson, Kim Greer, and Maggie Fitzwilliams. With the majority of the players being new to the sport, as the coach, it was wonderful to witness their improved skill and understanding of the game as the season progressed.

Maggie was the captain and most experienced member of the team. She played center and truly was central in leading the team on and off the court. Right wing players, Kim G. and Kim R. with left wing players Amelia King, Anna L. and Stacy Novak, all played solid defense. Maggie, Amelia, Kim G. and Kim R. had success scoring points while on court.

Goalball Wrap Up ~ Coaches Dave Hyde & Diana Brower

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The girls traveled to Ohio, Illinois and Kentucky. The team had a .500 record entering the tournament in Kentucky. The girls faced tough competition from the seven other teams and won one of 4 games there.

I want to commend the girls for their effort and dedication to the goalball team and congratulate them on their team spirit and sportsmanship.

Front Row: Quinn H (and Coda), Maggie

F, Anna L

Middle Row: Kim R, Stacy N, Charles B, Mark D, Coach Dave

Hyde

Back Row: Coach Diana Brower, Kim G, Amelia K, Joe S, Codi

L

Goalball Illustration by Kim Robinson

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It is hard to believe that the 2008 swim season has come and gone already! We had a very strong team this year. The mixing of the old and new team members give the 2008 Badgers a great new flavor. A special welcome to Chase Pruitt and Mark Doering, the newest members of our team. Welcome back to our veterans Joe Scheunemann, Brian Boknevitz, Codi Langer, and Jelly Hope.

One additional honorary swim team member is Hunter Jozwiak. He is not old enough to compete just yet, but he came to practice regularly and worked very hard. We’re sure that one day, he’ll make an excellent addition to the swim team of whatever school he ends up attending in the future.

Our WSVH Badger Swimmers have shown a tremendous amount of improvement in the water during this season, both in lowering their times and refining their techniques. We’re proud of each one of our swimmers and know that they’ve worked to the best of their ability in all of the meets this season.

Each of our six swimmers has their own special set of events that they’ve competed in this year. They are:

Brian Boknevitz: 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke, 200 Freestyle Relay (alternate) Mark Doering: 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Freestyle Relay Jelly Hope: 200 Individual Medley, 100 Freestyle, 100 Breaststroke

Codi Langer: 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Freestyle Relay Chase Pruitt: 200 Individual Medley, 100 Freestyle, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Freestyle Relay Joe Scheunemann: 50 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Freestyle Relay

There were a total of four meets our students competed in this spring. They were: April 4-5 – Kansas, April 9 – Illinois Midweek Meet, April 20 – Wisconsin Relays, April 24-26 – NCASB Meet in Illinois

The WSVH Badgers did very well at the final conference meet in Illinois. Our team placed fifth of a total of ten schools. This is a great accomplishment considering we were up against schools that had far more swimmers than we did. We feel that our team, though small, is made up of quality swimmers whose commitment to success helped us place in the top half of schools represented.

We’d like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who has been thinking of joining the WSVH Swim team to come out in 2009. We know there are a lot

WSVH Swim Team: We’ve Done Great in 2008! Coaches Amy Snow and Kelly Bailey

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of capable swimmers at WSVH that can help pull our team together next season. Perhaps we can even bring back a trophy!

Lastly, we’d like to extend a special thank-you to all the parents, teachers, chaperones, and other staff that have supported our swimmers this season, especially to our lifeguard Pam Benzel. Your time and encouragement are greatly appreciated.

Front Row: Chase P, Jelly H, Kim R

Back Row: Joe S, Codi L, Mark D

Jelly H Mark D Codi L

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The 2008 Braille Challenge and Braille Olympics were held on March 13-14. Although we had planned for these events to happen in early February, the weather had another idea, and we were forced to postpone the fun.

The Braille Challenge was held on the morning of the 13th. Six WSVH students, along with several others from throughout the state, took part in this competition. Their papers were sent to California, to be corrected, and students will be notified of the results by mail.

All WSVH students, and approximately 22 guests, participated in the Braille Relay, Human Braille Cell, and Name that Contraction games on Thursday afternoon. Excitement was high as the tangerine, lime green, chocolate brown, bright pink, and purple teams tried to capture the most points for their team. The good-natured competition among the participants was great to see.

On Friday morning games were played at every level of Braille literacy learning. Sorting, matching objects to alphabet letters, following lines of Braille symbols and marking the ones which were different, writing alphabet letters using a swing-cell, and writing the alphabet on a brailler, along with a carnival of games, (with interesting prizes, to boot), were all enjoyed by younger, less experienced braille users. Those who were a bit more advanced transcribed braille from uncontracted to contracted code, wrote using the slate and stylus, or proofread and made necessary changes in text.

This year some of our own students were volunteers in the various game rooms. They all were very helpful and did a great job! We were also very grateful for the help of all of our visiting adults. It really is true that “many hands make work light.” Thanks to each of you for stepping in and helping wherever you could.

The final game was a variation of the popular board game Last Word. Students really seemed to enjoy this, and continue to beg to play it again.

The awards ceremony is always an exciting time. Students love getting their medals and enjoy wearing them throughout the year. They often ask why we can’t have the Olympics more often. Well, I guess I’ll just have to find creative ways to make braille class more fun!

Let the Games Begin

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I am always uplifted and thrilled by the magic that happens on the day that WSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival occurs. As you walk through the halls students and parents are on the move to performance areas or rushing to practice sites to get ready to perform. There is a sense of elation and anticipation in the air as young musicians wish each other well or share their judge’s scores. As with past music festivals, Mr. Heimerl kindly accepted the role of driver and hall navigator for five WSVH musicians and myself. As the day progressed, students’ family members joined us to hear their young relative perform. On March 8 we traveled to Beloit Turner middle and high school to join their festival coordinated by Liz Rosenthal. Everything went smoothly, and we were privileged to hear performances of vocal ensembles, vocal solos, piano ensembles, and piano solos by students from local area schools. Of course, the most valuable reward of the day was the incisive verbal comments and written critiques of the judges along with the anxiously awaited rating. The students will receive their rating sheets and medals at our annual award banquet held June 13.

Here are the day’s results. Joe Scheunemann Class C piano solo--rating 2. Margaret Williams Class B piano solo--rating 2. Jenna Antreassian class C vocal solo--rating 1. Anna L. class C vocal solo--rating 1. Margaret Williams and Anna L. class C vocal duet--rating 1. David Howard class B vocal solo--rating 1. Margaret Williams class C vocal solo--rating 1.

ONE MORE SURPRISE

As we waited in the Beloit Turner’s cafeteria for the final set of scores to be posted, Mr. Heimerl noticed a special commendation. Here is the wording:

WALL OF FAME:

Margaret Williams Soprano Solo ~ Wisconsin School for the Visually Impaired

This means that Margaret was selected by her judge to receive the highest rating of all the students who performed in her designated room. It was great to see her name among all those who received similar recognition. Congratulations to the five WSVH students who made everyone proud on March 8!

Let the Music Surround You ~ Ms. Kathy Hudziak

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As the school year comes to an end, it's time to return all materials the have been borrowed from the library. All materials need to be returned by May 30th. Bills will be sent home for all materials not returned by that day. Again, for each item still checked out, the replacement cost is $50 each or per volume. For instance, if you have all ten braille volumes of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows checked out, a bill for $500 will be assessed.

Also, the last day to borrow materials for the school year is May 23rd. If someone needs materials for a class, have that teacher email me and allowances can be made.

If you have any questions, please contact me. Michelle Rueckert, Librarian ~ 608-758-6118 ~ [email protected]

Library Reminder ~ Ms. Michelle Rueckert

Weekly transportation sheets are sent home from the health center on an as needed basis. For instance, when your child is in need of a refill we will send a note home allowing time for you to refill before we run out. Please be sure to check your child’s luggage or backpack each time they return home. Please sign the transportation sheet and feel free to write any comments on it before returning it to school. We like to know that you have received the information.

Also, here’s a Heads-Up for the upcoming school year of 2008-09. The Wisconsin Student Immunization law was recently changed. There will be new vaccine requirements for all students entering Kindergarten, 6th, 9th, and 12th grade. The health center will be sending home the guidelines with the registration information at the end of this school year, but if you would like the information sooner please contact us at

608-758-6142 or you can access the information from home at http://dhfs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/index.htm. If you choose to have your child immunized in advance, please let us know the exact date the vaccination was given so we can update our files.

Health Center News ~ Ms. Rhonda Mulligan

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For the last few weeks in physical education, Mrs. Benzel has taken some of the classes to the archery place. The kids have individual instructors who teach them all the techniques necessary for archery. I had gone with my best friend Anna. The other kids included were: Trisha, Mark, Cody, and Maggie joined us on our second trip since she wasn't with us last time. We did this over seventh and eighth period.

There were many things to learn about archery. Even though I had some experience, I hadn't learned everything I learned today. The first thing that I learned was about the bow. The bows that the students shot with were different sizes according to how strong they were. The bows were made of metal. Other parts included: a round wheel on the very top, another wheel that wasn't quite round at the bottom, a screw for removing the wheels, and strings for hooking on the arrows. The arrows themselves were made of fiber glass and other materials. They have a long slender hole so that they can fit through the string of the bow, under the whole was the shaft which was about 8 inches long and skinny, last of all, was the arrow point. This was a very skinny tip that win very sharp at the end.

This is how the students shoot the arrows: There were targets that were balloons and they were hooked to a straw mat that was very tall. We had to hold our bows with a very straight arm toward the target and with our other hand, we pulled back on the arrow until it was in line with our jawbone. Then somebody has to point us in the right direction of where to shoot and then we pulled back the arrow and we all made an attempt to shoot the targets. Most of us popped one or more balloons while doing this. Anna L. said "I really liked the archery place because our instructors were very nice and helpful. They made their directions very clear to us. They were always very friendly."

Archery ~ Margaret Williams

Trish M

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Summer Programs 2008

Fantasy, Folk Art, and Fables along with Troubadours and Trebuchets

Things will be hoping here at WSVH this summer with our two medieval themed programs running from July 6th to July 18th! The programs are divided by age/grade. Fantasy, Folk Art, and Fables is for those ages 7 to 14. Troubadours and Trebuchets are for students in grades 7th to 12th.

In Fantasy, Folk Art, and Fables, students will have 4 classes where students will learn about period folk art, music, poetry, foods and life in general. They will learn to: make soap and paper; learn to play recorders and dulcimers, write poetry; and make new foods. In afternoon recreation the theme continues with students being introduced to medieval games and leisure activities.

In Troubadours and Trebuchets students will have two classes. In the Troubadours class students will learn about theatre and stagecraft, including acting, costumes, and stage combat. In the Trebuchets (advanced version of catapults) class students will learn the math required to build these devices. They will be divided into teams to build and compete with their trebuchets in the categories of distance and accuracy.

We are looking forward to working with your students with the ever popular and interest in medieval times.

Touch the Stars

This program, held July 27-August 1, hosted in collaboration with the Yerkes Observatory of University of Chicago, is focused on bringing the magic of our solar system to student who are blind or have low vision. Students in grades three through eight will have an opportunity to learn about astronomy and perform related hands-on activities and experiments to gain a better understanding of the world in which they live. Participating students will experience the power of Yerkes’ five research telescopes, one of which is the largest refractor in the world!

On April 22, seven of our staff were recognized for their Length of Service with the state of Wisconsin. Thank you all for your many years of service. We appreciate your dedication to our state, school, and students!

Randy DeBlare, Business Office, and Mike Fox, Power House, were honored for 15 years of service. Diana Brower, Adaptive PE Teacher, was honored for 25 years of service. With 30 years of service were Dorothy Conner-Davidson, Child Care Counselor, Gloria Weissinger, Housekeeping, and Duyonne Wisdom, Facility Repair. Audrey Bersell, Nurse, was honored for 35 years of service.

Staff Recognition

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Dude Ranch Camp

This four day residential program, held July 28-August 1, takes place at Woodside Ranch, a working Dude Ranch. Students ages ten to seventeen will have the opportunity to independently take part in beginner to advanced trail rides, while participating in life and work at the ranch. Socially stimulating and confidence building activities are woven into the four days as students meet new friends and learn to become independent ranchers.

Employment Skills Program

For the past six years the Wisconsin Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (WCBVI) has operated a six-week employment program that has enabled students who are blind or have low vision to participate in an employment program during the summer. The Summer Employment Skills Experience is a program that focuses on the skills of employment, and is offered for students ages fifteen to 21 who are blind or have low vision. This program is a six-week residential program designed to offer learning through the use of curriculum and four weeks of part-time, competitively paid employment in the Janesville community. Through the coursework in job-seeking and -keeping skills, and the experience of having a real employment experience in a supported environment, the students gain a wealth of knowledge and experience that will assist them as they move into the adult world of work. This program is held July 6 to August 15.

While the registration deadlines have passed for these programs, please be on the lookout for the advertisement for next year’s programs. All Teachers of the Visually Impaired receive the materials for the WCBVI summer programs to share with their students.

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I had to wrestle Oklahoma and Ohio that was easy. But I lost against Ohio. But I won over Oklahoma. There were 13 schools in all. We had a successful year. The Wisconsin cheerleaders took first for outstanding and the team took first. This is my second year on the team its Chase's first on the team and Jelly's first year. Outstanding cheerleader is Lee Wilson he took first place he did some nice flips and gymnastics and the dance was nice. The team took first and so did Lee. I would like to thank you all for letting us have a nice. This year's states that we went to we went to Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. Those meets were successful. So when you see the Badgers step aside because we are bad. We didn't place in those meets. About the social - a social is where people hang out. There's a DJ. Ryan Kelly was our DJ was so cool, everyone liked him so much that they were wanted to keep dancing. People hang with their friends. Mr. Snyder taught me how to wrestle. He does not allow anyone to be late or you have to make up time. I have a got one idea for the wrestling team we need to spend a little more time on our feet. I really thank the people that helped out. The referees did a good job. When they blow the whistle you have to move. I've got pinned; it's not a good thing to do. When you go out there you do what you have to do. When you are on your back you want to get to your base. I would like to thank you all for believing in your Wisconsin Badgers. Dorm Life is cool when you get to hang out. Dorm life is fun we leave for supper at 5:15. We have study hour after supper until 7:00PM some times we have to wake up early for practices or to go to a different state. The house parents are Mr. Russ W, Nick S., Jackie B., Ms. Sue K., Ms. Lucy T, Al S., Ms. Robin P., Ms. Conner-Davidson. The house parents work so hard that they need a break. Like Mr. Nick is going to Ohio, we travel by bus. We hang out with friends. The dorms just got a Wii. I think the Wii is a nice thing to have. Some times our rooms get dirty, but we can manage it by cleaning them. I think we have nice dorms.

Student Article ~ Charles Burke

Sadie Hawkins Dance

On March 12, Student Council sponsored the Sadie Hawkins Dance. The younger students were entertained with games of musical chairs and refreshments with music to dance to.

The Middle School and High School girls asked the boys to this dance. They gave a heart to the boy when he accepted and wore it. If the boy did not accept he cleared the girls tray at a meal. Students were encouraged to dress up for the dance. Samantha Ratkowski won for the Middle School/High School contest.

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May

15 AAWSVH Concert—Bryan Lee 22

16 Bryan Lee—Blues in the Schools 26

16 A Day in the Garden 29

RSVP Due—Spring Concert

No School—Memorial Day

Spring Concert, 6:30 pm

30 All Library Materials Due

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HELP WSVH EARN FREE EDUCATIONAL EQUIPMENT!

Save labels from Campbell brand products and WSVH earns points for free educational merchandise. Again this year we are collecting Campbell Soup labels. However, this year the company has requested that we only send the UPC CODE from the label. We are also collecting box tops for Education and some lids off products. We send the UPC, lids and box tops to the company 3-4 times a year, where they “bank” our points, so we may get books, equipment, etc. Please send these with your child. Thank you!

Lori Wolff, Coordinator ~ [email protected]

For more information go to www.labelsforeducation.com and/or www.boxtops4education.com

Calendar of Events

Summer

July 6-August 15 Employment Skills Program

July 6-18 Folk Art, Fables & Fantasy ~ Troubadours & Trebuchets

July 27-August 1 Touch the Stars

July 28-31 Dude Ranch

June

5 RSVP Due—Awards Program 13 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL!!!

13 Awards Program, 9:30 am

March

2 Mr. Dan Wenzel 23 Mr. John Brown

2 Mr. Martin Mulhern 24 Ms. Lori Wolff

7 Kim R 26 Mr. Lee Gamble

13 Ms. Kate Mennenga 29 Ms. Carolyn Fletcher

16 Ms. Peggy Trainor 31 Mr. Chris Hudson

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Birthdays

April

1 Ms. Lisa Buggs 22 Mr. Jeff Dary

4 William H 22 Ms. Deb Pounds

9 Mr. Russ White 24 Ms. Teresa Behm

10 Ms. Corrine Milberger 28 Ms. Michelle King

14 Lanette H 29 Ms. Gloria Weissinger

16 Ms. Stacy Grandt 30 Mr. Scott Mordecai

20 Robert M

May

3 Mr. Joe Eiden 26 Yen Yu L

7 Codi L 26 Charles B

12 Mr. Duyonne Wisdom 29 Jeff H

13 Ms. Crystal Krachtt 30 Mr. David Cedarstrom

17 Cody N 30 Ms. Tricia Weis

21 Mr. Al Sanchez 31 David C

25 Hunter J 31 Ms. Jill Kavanaugh

25 Ms. Lekshmi Mendez

Official DPI Nondiscrimination Clause The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, religion,

age, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability.

1700 W State St Janesville, WI 53546 Toll Free: 800-832-9784 Phone: 608-758-6100 Fax: 608-758-6116

The mission of the Wisconsin School for the Visually Handicapped, in accord with the Wisconsin Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Department of Public Instruction, parents, staff, and students, is to provide opportunities for students with visual impairments, through a multi-dimensional curriculum, to successfully learn skills which will:

• Lead to the highest level of economic, vocational, and personal success in adulthood commensurate with the individual's abilities;

• Develop students' own natural abilities; • Cultivate positive social interactions with peers and community; • Enhance self-esteem; • Develop personal responsibility and decision-making abilities; and • Preserve the individual's dignity, including dignity of risk, in a positive, supportive

environment which acknowledges roles of parents and families in student success.

WSVH Mission Statement

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Wisconsin Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Compiled by Mandy Jordan. Please call or email at 608-758-6141 or [email protected] if you have comments, questions or would like to contribute.

Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction

Center Director: Dan Wenzel Principal: Patrick Byrnes Dean of Students: Sue Kokko Outreach Director: Stacy Grandt Nursing Supervisor: Rhonda Mulligan Buildings & Grounds: John Brown Business Office: Jacki Radecki

www.wcbvi.k12.wi.us

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