Super Dunker Kenny Dobbs Shares His Story of Resilience!

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Kenny Dobbs spoke to the entire student body about his story of resilience. He over came a tumultuous childhood of drugs, family, and crime to find himself at the cross roads of life. According to the Indian Country:

Kenny Dobbs has traveled across the country to speak to and on behalf of kids on reservations as an employee of the Division of Behavioral Health Services for the state of Arizona. For three years he served as the chairman on the Arizona State Youth Advisory Council for Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention. He is currently serving as an ambassador’s for Nike’s N7 division and the Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI) Foundation. With NABI, Dobbs created the UpRise Youth Motivational Presentations to educate kids on Native lands. He knows that if you want to grab a kid’s attention, flying is a good way to do it.
Kenny Dobbs, member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Phoenix resident, proud son, brother, father and husband, is 27 years old. And he is lucky to be alive.

Read more at http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2011/07/29/inspiring-bounce-back-story-super-dunker-kenny-dobbs-43850

 

 

 

 

 

Kenny's story is as amazing as his dunks! 

 

 

Please select READ MORE to more amazing photos of Kenny and our kids.

Basketball Exemplifies Home Court Advantage

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Nothing is as exciting as a home basketball contest. It brings small communities together to celebrate, communicate and cheer on the home team. Mission is no different. It is always exciting to see what the Winter Sports Season has in store with new coaches and players.  Home Court Advantage (HCA) is best described through one of these events. Despite differences in a small town, everyone comes together to cheer on their colors and mascots.

The Bulldogs have celebrated HCA since September 2010. Safety, Support and Belonging have lead the way for increased academic scores, resiliency and excellence in all matters. It is the core of our mantra "Mission Possible." It is the foundation of Mission's Hierarchy of Needs.

As said in my 2010 post Now that's HCA Baby!: "Every student is VALUED in this SCHOOL! This is our school, and our student’s home away from home. It is a place of WELCOME and family for everyone. I feel strongly about the virtues that Home Court Advantage represents and even though this is just a symbol I believe it will help remind our students to act accordingly. Even more important, I hope that HCA will extend into this community. The circle in the middle will not be complete until this concept is realized." 

Today, I believe this district and community have "realized" this concept. The photos shared here are a big part of identifying Bulldog Belonging. I hope you enjoy the pictures as much as I do sharing them with you. Go Bulldogs!

Now that's HCA Baby!

Click on the "Read More" link to see the additional 42 photos taken on December 18, 2014.

MISSION BULLY FREE PROCLAMATION

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

The Student Council President, Raymond Matt along along with High School Class Presidents made the following proclamation: "Mission Schools are hereby, from this day forward, BULLY FREE!" The proclamation came after students cited the following:

Bully Free Pledge

Bullying is not allowed in my school.

I will not hit, kick, shove or punch anyone or anything.

I will not tease, call names, or put people down.

I will not exclude and leave others out.

I will not gossip or spread rumors.

If I see someone being bullied, I will speak up and seek help.

I will treat everyone with respect and kindness.

This school’s safety, support and belonging depend on me.

 

2014-2015 Class Presidents (left to right): Sophomore Beedo Matt, Junior Jordyn Eichert, Freshman Trinity Lewandowski, Senior Raymond Matt.

The announcement was made during an ALL SCHOOL ASSEMBLY lead by Superintendent Lewandowski. The proclamation requires everyone to do their part. Most importantly it calls on each student to stand up and stop bullying by reporting it to an adult or providing some type of support to the targeted victim. Senior leaders were called forward to hand out the Bully Free Pledge and a Declaration of Contribution. Each student was given the documentation to take back to their classroom for further discussions.

Our school realizes that the fight against bullying will be constant and on going, but as a BULLY FREE school, we will do everything possible to eliminate bullying from taking place. There is no place for bullying behavior at Mission Schools. THE BULLYING STOPS HERE! Our school is a place of SAFETY, SUPPORT and BELONGING!

Activity Committee Selection: Head Girls Basketball Coach

 by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

The Activity Committee is recommending Jeff Buck as the 2014-2015 Head Girls Basketball Coach. I am excited to take this recommendation and hire to the board. If you haven't met the new coach, be sure to do so on August 16 at 11:30 AM in the high school gym. He would like to invite all parents and students interested in the girls basketball program to attend. If you would like to find out more about our school activities and Mr. Buck, go to the Bulldog Activities and Athletics Blog.



Welcome to Mission Mr. Buck! HCA Baby!

WINTER SPORTS PROMOTIONAL POSTERS

I worked with Activity Director Rich Ferris to developed a Winter Sports Calendar for Wrestling, Boys & Girls Basketball. We were very fortunate to have a number of community businesses and members support our teams and purchase posters to put up in their establishments. The proceeds will be used to off-set unforeseen costs like the new track program here at Mission.

I would like to thank all of those that pitched in to help make this endeavor successful. It is great exposure for our senior athletes as well as our school and community. Now lets get our fans to sequel this effort and come out and support our kids. See the schedules for times and dates.

IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS

 by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski 

I am rarely surprised, but today Fifth Grade Teacher, Lloyd Phillips, called me to his classroom and said that he had something for me. Friend of the Phillips Family, Anthony Patch, Director of College Scouting for the Philadelphia Eagles hooked Lloyd up with his request. Lloyd told Anthony about the Kansas City Chief crazed superintendent that he worked with knowing that Patch worked closely with Andy Reid while Andy was the head coach at Philadelphia. I am not sure of the details shared with Anthony by Lloyd, but I am shocked by the results. Anthony sent Lloyd a Kansas City Chiefs hat, shirt and a signed photo to give to his superintendent.  WOW! It is truly the little things that make a difference.

All I have to say is Lloyd Phillips, you are the BOMB! Anthony Patch, thank you for making him look so good! AND, Andy Reid, thank you for looking out for those that have served you. MOST OF ALL, my prayers to you, Andy, and your family concerning the loss of your son Garrett.

Coach Reid, your success is proof that you can't keep a good man down! This signed photo will be framed and hung in my office as a reminder of perseverance, resiliency and leadership.

Coach Phillips, thank you for being the difference! This autographed photo will serve as a reminder of kindness, support, belonging and friendship (the stuff that makes resiliency possible).

GO CHIEFS!

Bob
9-0 Baby!

MAKING THE DIFFERENCE

 by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski 

 It was a privilege to honor District Clerk, Neil Easter at the Homecoming Assembly last Friday afternoon. He is definitely a "rock." The entire school district, K-12, gave Neil a standing ovation for his loyal dedication and unwavering commitment to Saint Ignatius Public Schools!

We thanked Mr. Easter for his outstanding contributions toward our school over the past 29 years and for making it stand above the rest.  

Once again, thank you NEIL EASTER, for MAKING THE DIFFERENCE!

SENIOR ATHLETES

It is always a pleasure to be able to recognize our senior athletes. Just recently I teamed up with our Activity Director Rich Ferris and Technology Director Matt Lyon and took some promotional photos of our football and volleyball senior athletes. I took the pictures on the stage and then in cooperation with Matt Lyon we were able to do some creative photoshop work in the background.

Once again, we believe that it is important to provide multimedia products to affirm, commemorate and permeate the positive student experience here at Mission Schools. I think these photos are an example of just that.

If you would like to download a high resolution photo, please go to our Mission Possible Photography site where you can find these and other other photos.

2013 Senior football Players: Ryce Hegwood, Patrick Eichert and Jarred Brown.

2013 Senior Volleyball Players: Courtney Charlo, Gina Linsebigler, Kaylie Durglo and Kayla Billette.

Congratulations and good luck seniors!

"What I Love About Mission"

During our District-wide Top Dawg Assembly on Friday, February 1, I shared a video that I put together asking students "What do you love about our school?" I was very impressed by their responses and would like to share them with the greater community.

GREAT SCHOOL 

GREAT COMMUNITY

Mission Mantra "OHhh Yeah!"

OHhh

Yeah!!!

by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Mission students unveil a new mantra for celebrating success! At the TOPDAWG Assembly on Monday, September 10 "OHhh Yeah" was introduced as a new action for celebration. When Bulldog fans are called to action by voice: "ARE YOU READY!" you will hear and see a proactive reply from Mission students. Student will stand and reply "OHhh Yeah!" This affirmation of school spirit and support goes beyond the extra-curricular setting. It is a positive anchor that all Bulldogs are encouraged to use to promote success and positive choices. 

“OHhh Yeah” has gained student popularity overnight (Monday to Tuesday). In this short amount of time, I have had several adults relate the slogan to the  1954 Kool-Aid Man.  In order to give due credit, I want to clarify the origin of "OHhh Yeah!" as presented at Monday’s TOPDAWG Assembly and as seen at the last nights volleyball match against rival Ronan (congratulations Lady Bulldogs on your 3 set victory). At least, I can tell you where the notion came from.

The etymology of "OHhh Yeah" according to Lewandowski (me): It is a colloquial term used by professional wrestler Randy "Macho Man" Savage of the World Wrestling Federation beginning in 1985. He won six world titles. Savage was the greatest champion of all time, the professional wrestling credits him for bringing "a higher level of credibility to the title through his amazing in-ring performances." Savage was recognizable by wrestling fans for his distinctively deep and raspy voice, his ring attire, intensity exhibited in and out of the ring, and his signature catch phrase, "Ooh yeah!"

The Kool-Aid Man is kinda cool (I guess), but is not responsible for the Mission "OHhh Yeah" as introduced. The Kool-Aid Man isn't tough enough for Mission. Macho Man didn't drink Kool-Aid and crash through foam walls, he ate "Slim Jims" and had a giant charisma that propelled him to the top of the performing arts finest champions: the WWF. The Mission “OHhh Yeah” is more than rescuing someone as seen by the Kool-Aid Man. The actions are as important as the words. Forming a big “O” with your arms and bringing them down to your waist with a powerful flex as you say “OHhh Yeah” is an action of the mind, body and school spirit that says we are Bulldog proud and ready! 

"OHhh Yeah" is all about celebrating lines that need to be crossed and those crossed over!  In other words, it can be used when facing challenges or celebrating success! It is charismatic by nature and action, just like the Macho Man.  One can hardly help saying the phrase without intention: It is a DECLARATION OF CONTRIBUTION!  It is Mission's Mantra used to celebrate.  LOOK for it at all Mission activities near you!

OHhh Yeah!

Have a great day!

Quantum Learning Comes To Mission

by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

There will be NO SCHOOL on Friday, January, 13^th as our district will host a professional development opportunity for our teachers called Quantum Learning. Quantum Learning for Teachers is a professional development program for educators that provides a proven research-based approach to curriculum design and delivery. Each level is a one-day, six-hour workshop, which sets the stage for the next level and emphasizes fundamental competencies. Our teachers will be presented level 1 of 5. The presenter will be John LeTellier.

John Le Tellier is an international trainer and educational consultant helping teachers and school administrators understand the process of learning and the recipe for improved performance in the classroom and school organization. He has helped thousands of educators understand the fascinating connections between learning and the brain, giving them insights into specific strategies that can be used to enhance and accelerate the encoding of long-term memory. John has trained educators in over 250 schools in the United States and at numerous international locations with Quantum Learning Education. He is a frequent presenter at national and state educational conferences speaking on educational methodology and leadership.

John was the founder and former director of Colorado NeuroLearning Center in Denver, Colorado, where he worked with students who had sustained brain injuries. Through this work he made discoveries that enhanced his extensive knowledge in motivational psychology and neuroscience. John is also a former principal, teacher, and has spent hundreds of hours in private practice as a counselor working with students and their parents to enhance academic performance. John is the author of Quantum Learning and Instructional Leadership in Practice recently published by Corwin Press.

Quantum Learning is research based in its applications to learning.

An extensive amount of research has been conducted over the years by a number of sources that validates the success of the Quantum Learning methodology. You can link to a number of document downloads that encompass Quantum Learning research findings, the impact of achievement in multiple settings, teacher workshop evaluations, as well as research documentation from a number of schools. Also available are results from an evaluation survey that has been completed by over 10,000 teachers trained in Quantum Learning methods who have evaluated the program.

Educators receive theory and strategies for:

• building a strong foundation of common understanding of classroom norms and procedures
• creating a positive atmosphere of rapport and respect
• constructing a supportive environment that reinforces learning
• facilitating effective classroom management based on motivation
• designing engaging lessons that make content more meaningful and support standards-based curriculum
• identifying and reaching all types of learners
• improving presentation skills 

WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT QUANTUM LEARNING:

The Quantum Learning model demonstrated a consistent pattern of positive impact on student achievement in 18 schools in four states. This impact included statistically and educationally significant gains in reading, mathematics, writing and more comprehensive measures of core academic achievement. Students who have participated in schools implementing QL, have also shown a pattern of greater gains in achievement than comparison sample students not participating in the QL model.
External Evaluator for Program Improvement Schools
William Benn and Associates, 2003

With Quantum Learning, 17% of LD ISAT intensive math students met or exceeded the standards, compared to 0% in traditional classrooms.
Masters Study
Aurora University, IL

The students identified as performing below grade level, without Quantum Learning, would have been placed in remedial Math. After attending a 22-day Quantum Learning Program, 67% passed Algebra, while only 62% of regular students passed.
Masters Study
Thornton Township School District, IL

After Quantum Learning, two out of three students increased their grades.
Masters Study
Brock University, Canada

97% of students felt that they learned better in classes taught with Quantum Learning methods.
Paper presented at Eastern Educational Research Assoc. Conference
Tampa, FL

After attending Quantum Learning Programs, there was an average 85.8 point gain on SAT scores. 98% of students with a 1.9 and lower GPA, improved their GPAs by an average of one letter grade. Overall students across the A-F range, increased their GPA by half a point.
Doctoral Study
Northern Arizona University, AZ

After Quantum Learning training, learning-challenged 8th graders earned their best GPAs average ever (only one D and no Fs).
Case Studies
Northwood Middle School, IL

After Quantum Learning, 98% of at-risk children have been successful in achieving average or above-average success in literacy acquisition skills and are no longer in need of special education.
Action Research
Waterloo Region School District, Canada

After attending Quantum Learning, 63% of low-performing students earned a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Case Studies, 1993
Grossmont Union School District, CA

Students develop both emotional and physical trust. Students begin to understand themselves, becoming aware of personal attributes, feelings and thoughts.
Doctoral Study
California School of Professional Psychology, Fresno

After Quantum Learning, students' test-taking skills increased 35%. Teachers' perceptions of student self-confidence were six times higher than before the program. Students reported an average of a 33% increase in their own self-confidence.
Teacher and Student Surveys
Encinitas Union School District, CA

SCHOOL SPIRIT! It's HCA Baby!

Student-body having fun at the volleyball game versus Ronan.

by Superintendent Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

If you want to measure the type of start our district is having, all you have to do is attend one of the fall sports contests. Last Thursday evening the varsity volleyball team played Ronan (the town next door). The ladies defeated Ronan in three straight sets. Credit not only goes to their play on the court, but the support that comes from the student-body and community. Win or lose, Home Court Advantage is the difference.


Well done students!

T.E.A. Party

The Targeted Enrichment Activity (TEA) group led by their teacher Susan Batiuchok worked to clean up the sidewalks of Mission and enhance school pride by painting bulldog paw prints outside the elementary school. The prints certainly add color and school spirit. It's just another way of extending home court advantage to everyone.

Well done elementary students and Mrs. Batiuchok!

Now that's HCA Baby!

Football & Beyond

Extra-curricular activities are much more than an opportunity to participate in a competitive activity. Students learn about themselves and others. Leadership, character and community are the flag ships for learning and beyond in a Mission extra-curricular activity.

On Saturday, August 27, 2011 the football team was learning about service. Students and coaches renovated the "MHS" letters leading into the football field. This is the type of pride in excellence that makes a good school great.

The stewardship displayed can be infectious! This was done on your time, on a Saturday morning, for the benefit of all! Pretty special!

I was so pleased to see this group take the initiative to make our school better off the field. I am sure they will be better on the field as a result of their service and sacrifice. Thank you Coach Ferris and staff for your leadership and guidance.

WELL DONE MISSION FOOTBALL!

Just another example of Mission's "HCA Baby!"

First Friday BBQ: TRADITION!

As tradition holds, the first Friday of each school year is celebrated with a high school and a middle school barbecue. It is just one of many events hosted by the school to provide home court advantage for our students. Somehow, a meal really pulls a family together. This school is no different and this activity sets the tone for safety, support and belonging that is afforded to every student at Mission.


Special thanks to all of the parents and community members who brought in their barbecue grills and cooked for the student-body!
This is Mission HCA Baby! Tradition!

HCA Anti-Bullying

HCA Man D

With the help of the Drama Class, seniors Dakota Matt and Zane Foster have taken the lead in a school-wide anti-bullying campaign. At this year's Community Showcase Matt and Foster strapped on their hero gear to become HCA MEN! HCA stands for the Home Court Advantage that provides Mission students the Safety, Support and Belonging required for success.

Dakota Matt is specifically identified as HCA Man "I" (the "I" stands for Indirect) As HCA Man I, Matt fights the crime of INDIRECT bullying. On the other hand, Zane Foster's super hero is HCA Man "D" (the "D" stands for Direct). As HCA Man D, Zane is an icon and messenger against all forms of DIRECT Bullying. This anit-bullying duo uses costumes, drama, and humor to deliver a serious message for all to hear concerning bullying and the effects it can have on students.

These Super Heroes will be preforming their act along with the rest of the cast for the elementary, middle and high school respectively. I think this is the type of message that our students need to hear from their student leaders. Well done drama class and senior heroes. You've saved the day!

What Super Heroes do.

HCA Man I

Anti Bullying Duo

A message in mind.

HCA MEN to the rescue!

Putting a freeze on bullying.

Anti-bullying challenge.

Only YOU can prevent bullying!