Tickets will go on sale Monday, April 15th during lunch and end on Friday May 3rd. Each ticket will be $25 (no personal checks) and includes a meal, drink, and dessert. There will be a live DJ and photo booth available for students to enjoy as well. Additional snacks will be available for sale that evening.

This dance is only open to eligible Collinsville Middle School [current] 8th grade students. It is important that students abide by the current school dress code (no clothing with lewd, vulgar, obscene, offensive language or symbols).

Please take a moment to review the eligibility criteria below:

• Students must be passing all four of their core classes (English, Math, Social studies, and Science)
• No OSS between April 2nd and May 10th
• Students must be in attendance at least half of the school day on May 10th
• Students must have a current school ID

Guidelines for the day of the dance are as follows:

• The dance will begin promptly at 6:30pm. No students will be allowed into the dance after 7:30pm.
  The dance will end promptly at 8:30pm. No students will be allowed to leave the dance any sooner than 8:15pm.
• Students attending the dance will be permitted for early release from school no sooner than 12:00pm on May 10, 2024. Leaving before then or not showing up will result in the student no longer being able to attend the dance w/no refund.
• At the event, a formal dress code will be highly encouraged. Dresses should not be revealing or sheer. No shorts or t-shirts will be allowed.
• Collinsville Middle School will not be responsible for any personal items (cell phones, cameras, purses, etc.) brought to the event by students. All personal items should be kept with students at all times.
  Inappropriate dancing will not be allowed. Violators will be removed from the dance.
• Use of inappropriate objects (vapes, e-cigs,drugs, etc….) will result in immediate removal from the dance and consequences based on the district policy.
• After the purchase of a ticket, there will be no refunds – extreme cases will be dealt with case by case with administration. We certainly hope you enjoy helping your child prepare for this very
  special night. It is our hope that every student who wishes to attend, can and will attend.

We look forward to your child having a safe and memorable time at the dance! If you have any questions, please contact the school.

La escuela Intermedia Collinsville organizará su primer baile formal anual de octavo grado el 10 de mayo de 2024 de 6:30 p. m. a 8:30 p. m. Este baile será una oportunidad para que los estudiantes celebren sus últimos días como estudiantes de Intermedia . Les pedimos a los estudiantes que vistan vestimenta semiformal o formal con su par de zapatillas tenis favoritas de acuerdo con el tema de este año, “A Sneaker Ball”. ¡El gimnasio y la cafetería se transformarán para que esta sea una noche inolvidable!

Los boletos saldrán a la venta el lunes 15 de abril durante el almuerzo y finalizarán el viernes 3 de mayo.Cada boleto costará $25.(no cheques personales) e incluye comida, bebida, y postre. También habrá un DJ en vivo y un fotomatón disponible para que los estudiantes disfruten. Habrá refrigerios adicionales disponibles para la venta esa noche.

Este baile solo está abierto a estudiantes elegibles de octavo grado de Collinsville Middle School. Es importante que los estudiantes cumplan con el código de vestimenta escolar actual (no ropa con lenguaje o símbolos vulgares, obscenos u ofensivos).

Tómese un momento para revisar los criterios de elegibilidad a continuación:

• Los estudiantes deben aprobar las cuatro clases principales (inglés, matemáticas, estudios sociales y ciencias).
• Sin OSS entre el 2 de abril y el 10 de mayo
• Los estudiantes deben asistir al menos la mitad del día escolar el 10 de mayo.
• Los estudiantes deben tener una identificación escolar vigente.

Las reglas para el día del baile son las siguientes:

• El baile comenzará puntualmente a las 6:30 p.m. No se permitirá la entrada de ningún estudiante al baile después de las 7:30 p. m.
• El baile finalizará puntualmente a las 8:30 p.m. A ningún estudiante se le permitirá salir del baile antes de las 8:15 p.m.
• A los estudiantes que asistan al baile se les permitirá salir temprano de la escuela no antes de las 12:00 p. m. del 10 de mayo de 2024. Si se van antes de esa hora o no se presentan, el estudiante ya no podrá asistir al baile sin reembolso.
• En el evento, se recomendará un código de vestimenta formal. Los vestidos no deben ser reveladores ni transparentes. No se permitirán pantalones cortos ni camisetas.
• La Escuela Intermedia Collinsville no será responsable de ningún artículo personal (teléfonos celulares, cámaras, carteras, etc.) que los estudiantes traigan al evento. Todos los artículos personales deben mantenerse con los estudiantes en todo momento.
• No se permitirán bailes inapropiados. Los infractores serán retirados del baile.
  El uso de objetos inapropiados (vapeadores, e-cigarros, drogas, etc….) resultará en la expulsión inmediata del baile y consecuencias basadas en la política del distrito.
• Después de la compra del billete no habrá reembolsos; los casos extremos se tratarán caso por caso con la administración. Ciertamente esperamos que disfrute ayudando a su hijo a prepararse para este noche especial. Es nuestra esperanza que cada estudiante que desee asistir, pueda asistir y lo haga.

¡Esperamos que su hijo pase un momento seguro y memorable en el baile! Si tiene alguna pregunta, comuníquese con la escuela.

The post CMS 8th Grade Sneaker Ball is May 10 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

March 26, 2024 – Collinsville Middle School art teacher Kendra Cline was recognized today as March 2024 Kahok Educator of the Month. The award was presented by CMS Principal Brad Snow and local Benjamin F. Edwards financial advisor Jason Rehg.

In his nomination of Ms. Cline, Principal Snow wrote:

The post CMS Art Teacher Kendra Cline is March 2024 Kahok Educator of the Month appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Last year, CMC Rotary provided $1,500 in seed money to pilot a literacy program at CMS. Following a successful launch, the reading incentive program has grown to encompass DIS students, too.  CMS Rotary generously increased their support for 2023-24.

Students earn rewards for reaching milestones based on the number of words they read. The top prize is a $50 certificate for Scholastic Books for every million words read. 

The program includes students at all levels of literacy:  from rewarding those who are already avid readers, to incentivizing and supporting students who desire to read, but struggle with comprehension. 

For more information on the Kahoks Read program, contact Library Media Specialist Michael Hayman: mhayman@cusd.kahoks.org.

The post CMC Rotary Makes $3,000 Donation to DIS/CMS Reading Program appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

November 9, 2023 – Collinsville Middle School hosted an appreciation breakfast for local Veterans on Thursday, November 9, 2023 in honor of the Veterans Day holiday, November 11.  Following breakfast, which included a tribute presented by CMS students, some Veterans and active service members visited classes to talk about their experiences and answer questions.

One discussion was recorded as a podcast.  Click HERE to listen to the podcast.

Click HERE to view an album of photos taken during the morning’s events.

The post CMS Veterans Day Breakfast Includes History Lessons appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Read the October 2023 CMS Trailblazer Newsletter in English

Read the October 2023 CMS Trailblazer Newsletter in Spanish 

The post READ THE October 2023 CMS TRAILBLAZER NEWSLETTER appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Read the September 2023 CMS Trailblazer Newsletter in English

Read the September 2023 CMS Trailblazer Newsletter in Spanish 

The post Read the September 2023 CMS Trailblazer Newsletter appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

August 2, 2023 – Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 has chosen Ms. Easter Shaw to serve as the new Dean of Students at Collinsville Middle School beginning in the 2023-24 school year.  

Ms. Shaw grew up in Jackson, Alabama, and graduated from Jackson High School. She earned a bachelor of science in elementary education from Alabama A & M University; master’s and education specialist degrees in elementary education from the University of West Alabama. She will graduate from the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville education leadership program in fall 2023. 

An educator for nine years, Ms. Shaw started her career at Birmingham City Schools in Birmingham, Alabama. She moved to Illinois and continued her teaching career at Renfro Elementary School in Collinsville CUSD 10. 

Her philosophy of education is based on the motto “Educators should strive to meet students where they are and provide support to help them reach their goals.”  As the CMS dean of students, she looks forward to partnering with students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders to help students reach their full potential.

Outside of school, Easter Shaw enjoys traveling with her husband and watching college football.

Ms. Shaw is looking forward to beginning her new role in the Kahok Family as dean of students for Collinsville Middle School. She says, “It’s a great day to be a Kahok!”

The post Easter Shaw Named Dean of Students for Collinsville Middle School appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

On November 18, 2022,  CMC Rotary donated $1500 to help CMS re-boot their literacy efforts with a new reading incentive program to reward students for reading.  Based on the number of words read, students received award certificates or tickets that could be redeemed for cafeteria snacks or books from the May Scholastic Book Fair.

Hayman said the Rotary’s donation was used as seed money to become $3,000 in books for the students who read the most.  Sodexo food service provided the snack incentives.

At the end of the 2022-23 school year, Mr. Hayman reported the following figures:  

• 156 Golden Certificates given for SODEXO snack rewards.
• 78 students rewarded for book fair purchases
• 22 Million word readers ($50 per million read)
• 14 RTI graduates ($25)
• 36 students identified by teachers for classroom reading achievements ($25)

This video was shared with the Rotary members:

Thank you CMC Rotary!

The post CMS Thanks CMC Rotary for Supporting Literacy Program appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

May 17, 2023 – Collinsville Middle School Track & Field was represented by three relay teams and eight individuals in the Southern Illinois Junior High Athletic Association (SIJHAA) state track meet in Carterville, IL, on Saturday, May 13, 2023.

At the end of the day, the team left with a state record in the 7th grade boys 4x200m relay and a school record in boys shot put.

• Dariana Morris, Zyriah Marchbanks, Aveonna Edwards and Kwanza Henderson- 8th place 4×200 meter relay
• Peyton Duhadway- 3rd place in the 7th grade 100 meter
• Kwanza Henderson- 3rd place in the 8th grade 100 meter
• Greg Ballinger- 1st place in the shot put 46’3″- broke Collinsville Middle School record
• Daniel Guiterrez- 5th place in the hurdles
• Jakori York- 12th place in the shot put
• Ralph Powell- 14th place in the long jump
• Zaire Smart- 8th place in the 7th grade 100 meter
• Daryl McRath 11th place in 400 meter
• Daryl McRath, Daniel Gutierrez, Jackson Ehret and Zaire Smartt- 4th place in the 4×400 meter relay 3:53.26
• Zaire Smartt, Colton Seaton, LaShawn Wright and AJ Richardson- 1st in the 7th grade boys 4×200 relay with a new state record time of 1:41.52

Congratulations Kahoks!

The post CMS Track & Field Sets State and School Records @ State appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Congratulations to Gregoree Ballinger (8th grade champion) and Talan Werner (7th grade champion).  After a battle to the very end, Gregoree took 1st place and Talan 2nd.

Library/Media Specialist Mr. Hayman is already looking forward to next year!

Watch highlights from the CMS 2023 Chess Championship 

The post CMS Holds Inaugural Chess Championship in May 2023 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

You will be able to register your student from May 1st through the 12th.  Please visit the website (below) for  a link to the google form to register and read all the information on the dates of summer school, courses offered, and the rules and regulations.  Please note that once you register your student a summer school fee of $150 per course (1/2 Credit) will be placed on your student’s account within 24 hours (next business day) and the fee will need to be paid by May 17, 2023 to be officially registered for summer school.

Summer School Website:  https://www.kahoks.org/headlines/chs-2023-summer-school-information/

La inscripción para la escuela de verano YA están abiertas.

Usted puede inscribir a su estudiante del 1 al 12 de mayo. Visite el sitio en la red (a continuación) para obtener un enlace al formulario de Google para inscribir a su hijo(a) y leer toda la información sobre las fechas de la escuela de verano, los cursos ofrecidos y reglas. Tenga en cuenta que una vez que inscriba a su estudiante, se colocará una cuota de escuela de verano de $ 150 por curso (1/2 crédito) en la cuenta de su estudiante dentro de las 24 horas (el siguiente día hábil) y la cuota deberá pagarse antes del 17 de mayo de 2023  para estar inscrito oficialmente para la escuela de verano.

The post CMS 8th Graders: CHS Summer School Registration is Open appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

“The CMS students were fortunate to visit with multiple health and community resource participants. It was a positive and engaging experience for them,” said event organizer CMS school nurse Debra Welch.

The organizations that attended the 2023 fair were:

Health Management Center
SIUE School of Nursing
SIUE School of Dental Medicine
School of Dental Medicine Bio Medical
BJC Outreach and Youth
SIHF
Family Life Consultants
CHS Wellness
Epilepsy Foundation
Collinsville Emergency Management Agency
Call For Help Incorporated
McArther’s TaeKwonDo
Collinsville Public Library
Alanon
Madison County Homeless and Truancy
Service Dogs
Sickle Cell Association
Tourette’s Association
CVS Health Education

The post CMS 2023 Health Fair Brings Resources to Students appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Informational letters were mailed home and posted on both the school website and Facebook page.

To be eligible for this event, all students must be passing their math, English, science and social studies classes with a 60% or higher for their final, year end grade. Eligibility will be determined by Friday, May 12, 2023.

Additional information will be mailed home and posted later this month. For specific questions, please contact the school office at 618-343-2100.

The post CMS Plans First 8th Grade Award & Promotion Ceremony appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

In his nomination of Anne Lacy, Mr. Snow wrote:

Anne is a great teacher that works to make things fun and engaging for students.  She has organized the end of the year awards night for many years and now has volunteered to run the 8th grade promotion/graduation ceremony.  Anne mentors new teachers and makes sure they are doing things that are best for students.  Finally, Anne subs during her prep time for teachers that are absent.  She is a model teacher that is an important part of Collinsville Middle School!

Benjamin F. Edwards Financial Advisor and Vice President/Investments Jason Rehg sponsors the award each month during the school year to recognize outstanding educators in Collinsville CUSD 10.

The post CMS’ Anne Lacy is March 2023 Kahok Educator of the Month appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

These students are invited to attend the 32nd Annual Madison County Young Authors Conference hosted by the Madison County Regional Office of Education on Saturday, April 29, 2023, in Edwardsville.

The Illinois Young Authors program celebrates exceptional writing by students in grades K through 8.  This year’s CUSD 10 student entries were judged by the Collinsville High School English Department.

Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich welcomed everyone and read one of the Young Author books:  The Dirt Bike Kid Who Didn’t Give Up by Brentley Krimminger.

Collinsville CUSD 10 2023 District Winners

Jillian Smithe – The Journey of Untold Mysteries
Bianca Post-Biondi – The Blue Mermaid, Octopus O, and The Mermaid Ball
Fiona Delaney – Ducky Goes To The Dentist
Macy Korando- The Amazing Adventures of Murray and Millie
Gia & Ella Bossetto – The Queen’s Dog
Maverick Freeman – Luna’s Wild Adventure
Lela Post – Biondi – The Black Fairy
McKenzie Langston – The Little Fox
Preslee Williams – Willow
Brentley Krimminger – The Dirt Bike Kid Who Didn’t Give Up
Melanie Urquizo – El Mundo De Las Mascotas
Rylee Dushane – Rylee’s Family and Friends Book
Desmond Dotdot – Cooper The Turtle
Vivian Gottschalk – The Lost Unicorn Horn #2
Baylee Phelps – Saving Our Oceans
Bianca Romero – Witches
Giselle Romero – The Amazing Ballerina
Evelynn A. Nessel – The Tri-State Tragedy
Layla Williams – Light From the Hall
Alie Cary – Lori’s Recovery
Malia Bangaru – The Wild Adventure of Posie & Chase
Cora Tanner – The Academy of Lies
Makenzie Myrick – Paranormal Communication
Ailee Murphy – Because She Does
Aurora Doris – Alpheratz

The post 2023 Young Authors Winners Celebrated at Annual Tea appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

“CMS parents and foosball experts Lewis Waterman & Jaime Waters volunteer their time to teach proper play, rules and sportsmanship,” said CMS Library/Media Specialist Michael Hayman, “The championships are the culmination of students’ progress over the year and celebrate the friendships made around the table. The final 8 players received shirts from International Foosball Promotions.”

The 2023 final four teams:

7th grade
Chris Lamas & Angel Huerta vs. Logan Mirabella & Misael Ruiz-Delrio

8th grade
Michael Slinkard & Miguel Tostado vs. John Conway & Jedidiah O’Dell

The championship match (7th vs. 8th):

Logan Mirabella & Misael Ruiz-Delrio vs. Michael Slinkard & Miguel Tostado

2023 CMS Foosball Champions
Michael Slinkard & Miguel Tostado were victorious for the 2nd straight year.

2023 CMS Foosball Championship Highlights:

Interested in learning about Foosball?

Use the link below to watch Mr. Waterman’s  introduction and challenges.

The post Champions Declared in 2023 Annual CMS Foosball Tournament appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Collinsville High School Assistant Principal Charlotte Fisher was introduced by CHS Principal Daniel Toberman.  Fisher was recognized for meritorious service in the 2023 Those Who Excel administrator category.

Collinsville Middle School Library/Media Specialist Michael Hayman was introduced by CMS Principal Brad Snow.  Hayman was recognized for excellence in the 2023 Those Who Excel student support personnel category.

Maryville Elementary School Special Educator Teacher Jessica May was introduced by Maryville Principal Carmen Loemker.  May received special recognition in the Teacher of the Year/Special Education category.

To read more about these three outstanding educators, visit Three CUSD 10 Staff Recognized with 2023 ISBE Honors.

The post Three CUSD 10 Educators Honored by BOE at February Meeting appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Collinsville High School assistant principal Charlotte Fisher, Collinsville Middle School library/media specialist Michael Hayman and Maryville Elementary special education teacher Jessica May are among 490 educators from across the state ISBE has chosen to honor for “…significant contributions to our state’s public and nonpublic elementary and secondary schools.”

The annual ISBE Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards celebrate “incredible classroom teachers, administrators, teams, volunteers and school support personnel who have made lasting impacts on the students, families and fellow educators in their school communities.” 

“Illinois educators get up every day and perform one of the most difficult jobs in our state—and these excellent teachers, volunteers and administrators honored by ISBE went above and beyond that already exceptional call to serve,” said Governor JB Pritzker, “I’m thrilled to recognize teachers alongside librarians, custodians, volunteers and other support personnel who all contribute to our students’ wellbeing. Just like Illinois as a whole, it takes many skills and roles to keep a school running and to build the next generation of outstanding Illinoisans. Congratulations to the honorees and on behalf of the State of Illinois, thank you for your service.”

Collinsville CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich said:  “On behalf of our entire district we would like to congratulate Charlotte, Jessica and Michael on their recognition and thank them for their dedication to our students, district and communities.  We are fortunate to have a great staff throughout our district and these three are shining examples.”

Charlotte Fisher, Assistant Principal, Collinsville High School
Meritorious Service, Administrator

Charlotte Fisher joined the Kahok Family in 2008. CHS Principal Daniel Toberman appreciates the many contributions she makes as an assistant principal by supporting both students and staff: “Charlotte is a mentor for all staff including first-year teachers and young administrators. She works closely with special education students to ensure equity, has led an anti-bullying initiative and leads school restorative practice efforts.”

“My life’s passion is teaching and learning; especially for students with disadvantages,” Fisher says, “I began my career as a special education teacher. As a special education teacher, each day presented a new challenge. Yet, I enjoyed learning, listening, and growing.”

Ms. Fisher values her transition from teacher to administrator.  “Although I was not sold on leaving the classroom, I was prepared to lead. My leadership position allows me to support colleagues, teachers, students and families from a different platform. I am not one for the spotlight. My focus will always be on the work needed in our communities and schools for students,” she says.

She adds: “I am a leader who strives to provide structure, empathy, and support for all students. There is no substitute for good educational leaders. The most rewarding experience any educator can receive is witnessing the moment when a student truly gets it and begins to love learning or have hope for their future. Students respect educators who are consistent in their approach. My approach is to consistently put students in the best position to succeed. 

“No matter the position, we are in the educational community together and each of us has the ability to make a difference. I am thankful for the recognition, but making a difference is my reward.”

Michael Hayman, Library/Media Specialist, Collinsville Middle School
Excellence, Student Support Personnel

Michael Hayman was a classroom teacher before joining Collinsville CUSD 10 in 2005 as a library/media specialist at Collinsville Middle School. He has made the Collinsville Middle School library/media center the hub of the school, a think-tank for creative students and a refuge for students looking for a place to fit-in.

Mr. Hayman’s library is not the quiet place people expect.  He finds quirky ways to connect with middle schoolers; making TikTok videos for and with them; having musical instruments accessible in the library to encourage song writing and playing; and collaborating with a parent to host a foosball tournament. He looks for ways to buy used books and fun things to do in the library. He showcases photos and mementos from his own youth to show kids he was once like them.

“The vision and mission of my middle school library/media center is not a warehouse of artifacts, but a cognitive playground for the community we empower.  It is an environment of opportunity for students, teachers, staff and parents to explore, discover, connect, experiment, research and create content.  I have a front row seat to collaborate, observe and have fun making memories,” Hayman says.

“‘The less I talk, the more they learn’ is the phrase that describes me most as a teacher,” Hayman adds, “Students must put forth the majority of thought and effort, learn to learn for themselves, be self-sufficient, a self-starter and a problem solver.  Everyone learns through creating, self reflection, and troubleshooting identifiable areas for improvement.”

“Mr. Hayman goes above and beyond to share his knowledge and creativity with the students, staff and our district public relations efforts,” CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Skertich said, “He created a website for our libraries that is used district-wide by students and their families. He supports his colleagues by researching and sharing online resources, digital books and databases. He takes the initiative to recognize areas of need and find new ways to encourage learning.”

Hayman noticed reading in the district had declined since the pandemic began in 2020.  He worked with teachers, administrators and CMS’ speech language pathologist to develop the prototype for a reading incentive program that is currently being piloted at the middle school. 

This year, he also partnered with the Collinsville Daily News to develop a published outlet for student writing, video and audio projects. The section titled “Perspectives” amplifies student voices and offers recognition for a multitude of student creative endeavors.   

“No matter the background, no matter the ability, everyone is capable of creativity and effort, but opportunity and empowerment must be given for multiple pathways to success, social connections, exploration, emotional support and correction,” says Mr. Hayman. 

Collinsville CUSD 10 Public Relations Liaison Kimberly Collins works with Hayman on videos and creative projects for the district.  She said, “Mr. Hayman is a force in our district who puts students first, and focuses on both learning and social/emotional development. The key to his success is that the kids have so much fun, they don’t realize how they benefit in other important ways.”

Jessica May, Special Education Teacher, Maryville Elementary
Special Recognition, Teacher

Jessica May has been a special education teacher at Maryville Elementary School since 2005. During her tenure, she has worked successfully as both a resource teacher and co-teacher.

Maryville Principal Carmen Loemker said, “Through the years, Mrs. May has managed countless challenging students and parents.  She has been able to assure parents that their child’s IEP is implemented with integrity and fidelity. Recently, one parent of a student that moved in from a private school stated that she has never had her child cared for the way Mrs. May cares for and manages her child.

“Mrs. May manages to provide a calm and peaceful learning environment even with challenging student behavior. She uses individual incentives, has students involved in tracking their own academic success, work completion, and positive choices.  Students remain engaged and complete work for her that were unable to do so in other classes. The students and staff of Maryville Elementary are truly fortunate to work with Mrs. May.”

ISBE received a record number of nominations and applications for the 2023 Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards. A committee of administrators, teachers, educational service personnel, student support personnel and past Illinois Teachers of the Year selected this year’s awardees. ISBE will celebrate the awardees at a banquet on April 29.

The post Three CUSD 10 Staff Recognized with 2023 ISBE Honors appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

This week, Dr. Skertich’s video was recorded when he joined the Pickle Chips podcast from Collinsville Middle School.  Pickle Chips is produced by a group of CMS 8th graders through CMS Media Labs.  The students use their friendship and creativity to present a fun dialogue about what’s on the minds of middle schoolers.  All episodes of Pickle Chips are posted on the Collinsville Daily News Perspectives page, on the www.kahoksread.org website under Media Labs and on Spotify under Middle School Media Labs.

Read a transcript of the video in English
Read a transcript of the video in Spanish

Click HERE for information on the Polar Plunge

Click HERE for activities and information for Black History Month

The post Feb 10 2023 Video Update Message & Pickle Chips Podcast appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Information to Share About Noteworthy African Americans

The CHS Black Student Union has compiled information for use in all CUSD 10 schools during Black History Month.  The packet includes: historical events, important individuals and groups from history (inventors, civil rights activists, athletes, actors, etc.) and the opportunity to learn more about African American culture. Click HERE to view the week-by-week topics and links.

“What are CHS grads doing now?” 2023 Black History Month edition

The Multicultural Kahoks reached out to graduates and put together a presentation featuring African American Kahoks telling what they’ve done since high school and giving advice to current CHS students. Click the image below to learn more about them.

If you know someone who would like to be included next year, please reach out to Multicultural Kahoks sponsor Barbara Lindauer:  blindaue@cusd.kahoks.org.

Sunday Soul Food Brunch at Old Herald

CHS 2023 Black History Week  (Feb 6-10) Activities & Events

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Dear CMS Families.

During the school day today, Collinsville Middle School administration was made aware of statements from a student representing a potential threat against CMS.  All information was immediately shared with our Student Resource Officer and the Collinsville Police Department for investigation.  

Threats of this nature are taken very seriously. The student will face disciplinary consequences at school, in addition, there may be legal charges pending. 

 When these incidents occur, our first priority is the safety of our students and staff.  Please understand and trust our schools will never put students in danger.  Every potential threat or rumor is taken very seriously and referred to law enforcement for investigation and resolution.    

Student privacy laws prohibit us from answering some questions and providing certain details about incidents like this. Our district does its best to keep parents, students and staff informed. We appreciate your understanding, and want you to know that we work diligently to address these matters and do what is in the best interest of all concerned. 

To guide parents through discussions about school violence, below are a few suggestions:

Encourage children to talk about their concerns and to express their feelings. Some children may be hesitant to initiate such conversation, so you may want to prompt them by asking if they feel safe at school. 

Keep the dialogue going and make school safety a common topic in family discussions rather than just a response to an immediate crisis. Open dialogue will encourage children to share their concerns.

Seek help when necessary. If you are worried about a child’s reaction or have ongoing concerns about his/her behavior or emotions, contact a school administrator, social worker, counselor or any employee with whom the student is comfortable speaking. 

As always, students, staff and community members with safety concerns should never hesitate to contact an administrator, the campus resource officer or local law enforcement. 

Working together we can help ensure the safety of everyone at Collinsville Middle School.

Brad Snow
Principal
Collinsville Middle School

The post Nov 18 2022 Statement from Mr. Snow to CMS Families appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

November 18, 2022 –

Rotary officers Theresa May and John Maue gave the donation to CMS Principal Brad Snow and Library/Media Specialist Michael Hayman.  Students from Ms. Bernaix’s English class were on-hand for the presentation.   

The money will be used to start a new reading incentive program.  Students will earn rewards for reaching milestones based on the number of words they read. The top prize is a $50 certificate for Scholastic Books for every million words read. 

The program includes students at all levels of literacy:  from rewarding those who are already avid readers, to incentivizing and supporting students who desire to read, but struggle with comprehension. The plan is to expand the program to other CUSD 10 schools. 

“We are rewarding students with more reading for their love of reading, and planting the seeds for those still waiting to discover the joy of reading,” said Mr. Hayman.

The donation replaces the CMC Rotary’s long tradition of providing dictionaries to every 4th grader in the district. The proliferation of online dictionaries and thesauruses prompted the Rotary to find a new way to support reading and literacy in the community.  

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Thank you to the Veterans who participated in this year’s student interviews:

Greg Voudrie, USMC, 1984-88
Lincoln May IV, US Navy, 2007-2015
Larry Walcheck, US Navy Reserve, 12 years
Glenn Stoecklin, US Army, 1970-71
Jim Nance, USAF, 1970-1976
JR Stuart, US Army, 1966-68

Click the image below to view photos from 2022 Collinsville Middle School Veterans Breakfast

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They toured the Collinsville Food Pantry’s new location at 2009 Mall Street in Collinsville, helped unload and organize food donations, and packed “Tote Me Home” meals that are sent home with 200 Collinsville CUSD 10 students each week.

“We are so thankful to have such a wonderful food pantry and it was so nice to be able to give back to our community!” said CMS Student Council Co-sponsor Jenny Kirk.

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Click HERE for CMS “Qualifications and Expectations for After School Dances” in English

Click HERE for CMS “Qualifications and Expectations for After School Dances” in Spanish

Note:  The dance will have a Halloween theme, but is NOT a costume or face painting party.  Students should follow school dress code. 

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Click the image below to RSVP:

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Click HERE to view an informational slide show.  Deadline to sign-up is Friday, September 30, 2022.

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September 13, 2022 –

The actual clinic is located within Collinsville Middle School (9649 Collinsville Road, Collinsville, IL), however, its services are available and accessible to all district staff and students.  

“Our district is excited to partner with SIHF to provide health services to our students and staff during the school day,” said CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich, “Pairing SIHF with our district health staff adds another layer of wrap-around services to our students and provides easy access to our staff.”

“We are so excited for this partnership with SIHF to offer onsite health services,” said CUSD 10 Director of Special Education Alison Underwood, “We kicked off the partnership with a clinic during centralized registration in July.  Roughly 125 students completed their school physicals over two days.  We will be working with SIHF to host another event prior to the medical noncompliance deadline in October.”

“This collaborative relationship bridges the gap in identifying students needing physicals, immunizations or medical treatment. Our district’s Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Award of Excellence winning health staff can refer students in need directly to the comprehensive SIHF team,” added Underwood, “This is a wonderful opportunity for students and staff to be able to be seen quickly to address health concerns and to return to school.”

SIHF Healthcare employs a physician assistant for the CUSD 10 partnership who can do school and sports physicals; provide immunizations and preventive care; treat basic health needs, such as cold, cough, sore throat and earache; as well as offer referrals for behavioral health services.  

“In an effort to improve the health of students, we partner with local schools to help promote the importance of good health, especially during adolescence,” said a statement from SIHF, “Our physician assistant has a unique focus on preventative care for adolescents and truly listens to the students when caring for them.”

Certified Physician Assistant Morgan Dillon is the designated provider for SIHF Healthcare at the Collinsville school-based health center.  She is a member of the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants and the American Academy of Physician Assistants. She earned her PA degree at St. Louis University. 

“One of my clinical interests is pediatrics, so a school-based health center is a perfect fit for me,” said Dillon. 

In-person visits are available at the CMS clinic Monday-Wednesday between 8:00 am and 3:30 pm.  Telehealth visits are available on Thursdays and Fridays. Advance appointments are preferred and can be made by calling 618-578-5701.  Insurance is accepted, but not required. 

“We look forward to serving the students, teachers and staff of the Collinsville school district,” noted Bryan Ferrell, Operations Director for Mobile and School-Based Services at SIHF Healthcare. “Students will be seen regardless of their insurance status, so no one will be turned away from receiving care.”

SIHF Healthcare believes everyone should have access to quality care regardless of their ability to pay. As a federally qualified health center, SIHF Healthcare accepts all State of Illinois health plans and most commercial insurance plans. Students without health insurance are also seen. Their Smart Pay plan offers a sliding fee based on family size and income. 

Visit the SIHF Healthcare website for more information and for consent forms in English and Spanish for parents to complete prior to being seen for most health center services; select “SIHF Healthcare – Collinsville Middle School.”

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Click HERE for Spanish

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