Chester Community School District 139

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION CANDIDATE FILING IS NOW UNTIL MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH! Candidates are to file petitions at the Randolph County Clerk’s Office located in the Randolph County Courthouse on November 12 - November 18, 2024 during normal business hours.

CGS & CHS: DMARCO SPEAKS Comwell and the Community Health Alliance presented DMARCO Speaks to the students of Chester High School and Chester Grade School Junior High. De'Marco Fomby provided a occasionally musical, frequently humorous and definitely inspirational presentation to our students. The presentation centered around students finding their passion and sharing it with others. The students were captivated by the presentation and we appreciate the opportunity to hear his message thanks to Comwell and the Community Health Alliance.

CHS OFFICE CLOSURE: The Chester High School Offices will be closed from 8:40am - 9:40am for an all school assembly .

CHS Football seniors thank those who have made an “Impact” on their lives (2 of 2) Proud CHS senior “Football Moms” organize and implement the 2024 “IMPACT” program BY JIM BEERS When the boys made their presentations it was a total surprise to the recipients. Each player presented a special certificate and a replica jersey to their special person. The certificate read, “Today, this SENIOR would like to present you with his football jersey name and number for making a positive IMPACT in his life. Each person has the potential of making a positive impact on the world. It all depends on what you do with what you have- Gary Chapman.” Players and their special persons include the following: Player Name Jersey Number Special Person’s Name and Position Zain Al-Jassim #1 Brittany Mueller, CHS Teacher Justin Hayman #2 Erin Conley, CHS Teacher Cayden Brunkhorst #3 Rachel Marshall, CGS Teacher Lannin Caron #4 Paula Ray, CHS Teacher Lincon Schroeder #5 Kasi Jany, CGS Teacher Kolton Jany #8 Pete Jany, Father Devante Palacio #9 Jarrod Peters, R.C. Sheriff Jack Heffernan #17 Dwight Lochhead, CHS Teacher Brenden Malley #18 Krista Krieg, CHS Paraprofessional Tino Rafael #34 Sara Hammel, CHS Teacher Gene Bicket #44 Marsha Bartley, CHS Teacher Nate Maes #55 Evelyn Hankins, CHS Teacher Alex Williamson #66 Bryce Bainter, CHS Teacher-Coach Each presentation was deemed a huge success that was met with hugs, tears, and much surprise and appreciation. Nikki Malley, Dr. Jim Beers and Tim Lochhead accompanied each player on his journey to make his presentation to provide guidance, support, and transportation. The entire IMPACT Project was most successful and accomplished its goals. Nikki Malley, project coordinator said, “Perhaps this will become an annual event for senior players to come! This year’s inaugural project was made possible by many people. I want to say THANK YOU to everyone who contributed to the success of the 2024 Senior Football Season IMPACT Project!” Photos: Jim Beers

CHS Football seniors thank those who have made an “Impact” on their lives (1 of 2) Proud CHS senior “Football Moms” organize and implement the 2024 “IMPACT” program BY JIM BEERS Nikki Malley, a very proud mother of Brenden Malley, a 2024 Chester High School senior football player, was looking at Tik-Tok, a social media platform, and ran across a very moving activity that another high school football team had done this year. The activity brought tears to her eyes as she watched the senior boys from this particular high school carry out their program. Malley said, “After seeing this group of senior boys carry out their presentations, we got the wheels turning for our own IMPACT Project.” “The CHS senior moms have a chat group and I sent them a video of the other football teams’ senior players conducting their program. Immediately my idea and suggestion for us to encourage the Chester seniors to do a similar program quickly took off!” In the video, it showed the senior football players presenting a T-shirt to a selected individual who had made a significant impact on their lives. The presentations were a surprise to the individual recipients, usually a teacher or staff member, and the player basically walked into the recipient’s classroom or office and presented them with the shirt. On the front of the shirt were the words,” I Made an IMPACT” or “Made and IMPACT” with the school mascot in the middle of the logo. On the back of the shirt was the player’s name across the shoulders of the shirt and his football jersey number. As the player presented the shirt to the recipient, he told the person that he or she had made a significant impact on his life and thanked him or her for doing so. Hugs and tears frequently followed. Malley said, “Once we decided to do a similar program, we had to act fast. We were in the 2024 IHSA Class 2A State Football Playoffs and wanted the boys to experience this opportunity prior to playing the second-round game against Maroa-Forsyth.” Malley then started collecting senior player’s names and numbers and contacted Silkworm, Inc. of Murphysboro to get a shirt design started. CHS Principal, Jeremy Blechle gave his approval and gave her the green light to proceed. Other senior mothers chipped in on funding the “IMPACT PROJECT”, and the ball got rolling in lightning speed under Malley’s direction. The rules for selecting an IMPACT recipient included 1) the person had to be a school employee or volunteer at a school, and 2) the recipients had to be easily accessible. Malley said, “It took a lot of people to make this project work. Tim Lochhead and Dr.Jim Beers went to each presentation to film and photograph the interaction. Their talents are what made the final project amazing.” “Staff at Chester High School, Chester Grade School, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, and Chester Construction supply were humbling. They allowed us to interrupt their daily routines to make the presentations possible. In addition, the administrations at both schools made it possible to visit the teachers in their classrooms for the presentations.” The goal of the IMPACT Project were two-fold. First, since the senior moms conceived the ideation for the project, they wanted their senior football sons to have a life-long “recorded” memory of their final high school football seasons. Secondly, it was educational and a wonderful experience for the boys to recognize someone in their lives who made a big difference and positively impacted them throughout their school years. Malley said, “Whether it was someone who taught them or coached them, or simply supported them emotionally at times when they needed it, it was important to let the recipients know that they made a huge difference and IMPACT for them.” “We tell our boys to show up on the field each and every week, and we wanted them to know that it was also very important to thank those who showed up first for them!” Once the boys made the selection of their IMPACT persons, the senior football moms created certificates for each recipient and determined the sizes of T-shirts that were needed to properly fit them. Silkworm, Inc. then worked quickly to “rush-order” the shirts so that they could be printed and delivered in time for the presentations on Thursday and Friday November 7th and 8th . All turned out well and the IMPACT project was carried out without a hitch! It took portions of two days to complete the deliveries of the IMPACT awards to all 13 of the recipients due to class schedules and availability of both the football seniors and their special influencers. Photos: Jim Beers

CGS & CHS: KINDNESS WEEK & FAMILY GAME NIGHT Kindness Week Dress-Up Days Tues.: Pajama Day Weds.: Pink, Red or Hearts Thurs.: Camo, Animal Print or Both Fri.: Orange & Black Family Game Night, Wednesday Nov. 13 See attached graphics for details.

CHS: VETERANS DAY Monday 11/11/24 is Veterans Day, and in observation CHS students planted 1000 flags in the front yard, and our Military Appreciation slideshow is posted on both the front yard marquee and W.O. Smith Field scoreboard/display. We would like to thank all who have spent time in the service of our country.

CHS: IHSA FOOTBALL STATE PLAYOFFS PEP BUS Parents-if your student is riding the pep bus tomorrow please remind them to dress warm, bring $10 for bus, $8 for game ticket and spending money. Please be there by 9:30. Bus leaves at 10:00 sharp. Thanks and Go Jackets!!!

CHS UPDATES & UPGRADES (2 of 2) Chester High School has had some recent updates and upgrades, with the following being a few examples: Glass & Metal Entry Door Graphic Art New Entrance Identification Graphics Window Security Room Identification Numbers Metal Outbuilding Graphics Pickleball/Basketball Court Wind Screens Security Camera Upgrades and Additions We continue to strive to provide our students and our community with the best education possible in a facility that is safe and secure that we can all be proud of.

CHS UPDATES & UPGRADES (1 of 2) Chester High School has had some recent updates and upgrades, with the following being a few examples: Glass & Metal Entry Door Graphic Art New Entrance Identification Graphics Window Security Room Identification Numbers Metal Outbuilding Graphics Pickleball/Basketball Court Wind Screens Security Camera Upgrades and Additions We continue to strive to provide our students and our community with the best education possible in a facility that is safe and secure that we can all be proud of.

CHS: OFFICE CLOSURE Chester High School offices will closed today from 1:30 - 3:10pm for an all faculty and staff meeting.

Jim Beers Report The October Students of the Month for October 2024 include (left to right) Evan Dunning, Karim Landeros, Brenden Malley, Cayden Cavaness, Madison Stauffer, Whitney Sulser, Grace Kirkpatrick, Baliey Hartman, and Manuela Lopez. These students were nominated for this award by their teachers and/or CHS staff members. Each recipient was presented with a certificate and 5 Jackpot Points. Jim Beers Photo

The Chester High School Teachers of the Month of October 2024 include (left to right) Ashly Bert, Physical Education Paraprofessional; Steve Colonel, Band Director; and Ashleigh Stegmann, In-House Substitute Teacher. At the right is CHS Principal, Jeremy Blechle. Blechle has instituted several new programs at Chester High School to increase morale and let teachers, staff, and students now that they are truly appreciated. The Teacher of the Month Program allows students to select their favorite teachers for the honor. Recipients are presented with gift a certificate and cards as well as recognition at school. Jim Beers Photo

CHS: PBIS STAFF OF THE MONTH October: We Initiate RESPONSIBILITY Responsibility: Being accountable in word and deed.  Having a sense of duty to fulfill tasks with reliability, dependability, and commitment. Ashley Bert Steve Colonel Ashleigh Stegmann

CHS: PBIS STUDENTS OF THE MONTH October: We Initiate RESPONSIBILITY Responsibility: Being accountable in word and deed.  Having a sense of duty to fulfill tasks with reliability, dependability, and commitment. Cayden Cavaness ”Cayden can be trusted, and is valued for his sense of responsibility. He helps to clean the cafeteria every day, and does an excellent job!” Evan Dunning “Evan is a student who I have seen to be responsible and trustworthy in many situations. He can be relied upon to take responsibility even in situations where others would avoid it. He is an upstanding individual.” Bailey Hartmann ”Bailey is always prepared for class and does her homework Every night! She is very responsible!” Grace Kirkpatrick “Grace has exemplified what it means to be a responsible student by her excellent behavior and outstanding work ethic. If she is going to absent she is sure to get her work ahead of time, and always tries her best.” Karim Landeros “Karim consistently demonstrates exceptional responsibility in his classwork and within the classroom environment. He completes tasks on time while approaching them with focus and dedication. He is respectful and considerate towards staff and his peers, often offering help when needed and contributing positively to the overall classroom dynamic." Manuela Lopez “She is a hardworking young woman who balances significant responsibilities at home while excelling in school. Not only does she support herself, but she also helps many people around her, showcasing a level of maturity and dedication that is remarkable for someone her age." Brenden Malley “Brenden organized cleanup after Homecoming and sought out permission for him and 2 other students to complete the cleanup and organization under the stage. It was also reported that Brenden assisted a teacher by asking other students in his class to follow directions.” Madison Stauffer “I nominated this student because she works hard, asks good questions when she has them, and always turns her work in on time. I also nominated her because I didn't even know who she was until she joined my class this year and I think she probably doesn't get recognized for much. She just kind of does her thing and stays under everyone's radar." Whitney Sulser ”I'm impressed by her work ethic, organization, and drive to get things done!”

CHS: SUMMIT CHAPTER OF NHS 2024 INDUCTION CEREMONY Congratulations to all of our NHS Inductees! A special thank you to Mr. Hankins and Mrs. Ray for organizing such a wonderful ceremony. New Members: Brayden Absher David August Maggie Caby Peyton Cole Callie Davis Lillian Diskey McKenna LaChance Southern LaChance Erin Liefer Rylie Myers Trayton Peters Katherine Pierce Madison Stauffer Jessica Stumpe Summer Valleroy Olivia Vasquez Alex Williamson Camryn Wolff Current Members: Max Blechle Cayden Brunkhorst Rylie Conley Nico DeGuzman Evan Dunning Gianna Eggemeyer Jack Heffernan Mirra Krieg Elaina Lutman Ary Shipley Whitney Sulser William Welge

CHS teachers choose Whitney Sulser for 2024-25 DAR Good Citizens Program Award (2 of 2) BY JIM BEERS Whitney began her educational career at Chester Grade School where she was active in Beta Club, Volleyball, Track, Band (she played clarinet), and chorus. Shed earned High Honors and was the Valedictorian of her class. At CHS Whitney is a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Environmental Club, Spanish Club, Dance Team (she is Captain), Softball Team, HIVE Pep Club, and Interact Club. Awards include High Honor Roll, Illinois Drill Team Association Scholar-Athlete, and Best Showman Award for Dance. Extra-curricular activities include, the Woman’s Leadership Initiative out of the Office of State Representative David Friess District 115; the American Legion Auxiliary Illini Girls State; she Works at Chester Animal Hospital; she Works at the Immaculate Conception Kaskaskia Church Picnic; and she takes part in Youth Girl Scouts. Miss Sulser said, “I try to help with as many community activities as I can. Most involve children, such as CHS Dance Camp, Easter Egg Hunt, and volunteering at the local animal hospital.” “After I graduate from CHS my plan is to go to Southeast Missouri State University and major in Agribusiness: Animal Science with an emphasis in Pre-Vet Medicine. After earning my Bachelor’s Degree I would like to go to either the University of Missouri or the University of Illinois at Champaign to get a Doctorate Degree in Veterinary Medicine.” Sulser finished by saying. “I am really grateful for this honor. The teachers at CHS nominated me for the DAR Good Citizen Award, and that is especially humbling for me.” Chester High School Counselor, Casey Hawkins said, “I couldn’t be more proud of Whitney. She is well-deserving of this honor and I have great hopes that she will move forward in this competition and that many more accolades will come her way!” Chester High School senior, Whitney Sulser, is the school's 2024-25 DAR Good Citizen Program Award recipient. For her recognition Sulser received a certificate and a DAR Pin. In addition she was entered into the DAR Scholarship Program Essay Contest for the opportunity to advance to the State, Divisional, and National levels which offer monetary awards and an eventual $10,000 college scholarship. To earn this opportunity Sulser was chosen by her CHS teachers for demonstrating the traits of Dependability, Service, Leadership and Patriotism. Her essay has been submitted and she is currently awaiting the results of the judging to see if she will advance to the State Contest level. Jim Beers Photo

CHS teachers choose Whitney Sulser for 2024-25 DAR Good Citizens Program Award (1 of 2) BY JIM BEERS Chester High School senior Whitney Sulser has been named the DAR 2024-25 Chester High School Good Citizen Award winner. Sulser is the daughter of Shane and Lori Sulser. Whitney was born in May of 2007 and has attended school in Chester throughout her elementary and high school years. The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution sponsors the DAR Good Citizens Program, with Pamela Edwards Rouse Wright, as President General. The DAR Good Citizens Committee, with Cindi Newbold as National Chair, and Kathy Hanlon as Vice Chair, oversee the program. The DAR Good Citizen’s Program Overview states, “The DAR Good Citizens program and scholarship contest are intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship. The program is open to all senior class students enrolled in accredited public or private secondary schools in good standing with their state boards of education or a recognized accrediting organization such that a General Educational Development (GED) test is not required to receive a high school diploma. United States citizenship is not required.” “The student that is selected as the school’s DAR Good Citizen must have the following qualities: Dependability: truthfulness, loyalty, punctuality, and being worthy of trust Service: cooperation, courtesy, and contributing to the welfare of others Leadership: personality, self-control, ability to assume responsibility, ability to inspire others, and be a decision-maker Patriotism: , devotion to and support of one’s country, supporting service members and veterans, working for causes that make one’s community stronger, and appreciating the cultural and historical importance of America’s unique population.” Miss Sulser definitely possesses the above characteristics and qualities! In short, a candidate must be dependable, be involved in service activities, demonstrate leadership, and exemplify patriotism. Each participating school may use a method of choosing its DAR recipient based upon its own desires. Only one student per year may be honored as the school’s DAR Good Citizen. That DAR recipient receives a DAR pin and certificate. This student is eligible, if they wish, to enter the DAR Good Citizens scholarship contest. The DAR Scholarship consists of three parts. Parts I and II consist of providing the student’s personal information and a description of their qualities. Part III is a timed essay to be administered under the supervision of a faculty or DAR member. It must be completed in one siting within a two-hour time limit and without any assistance, using only a dictionary. Each contest is evaluated by independent, non-DAR judges. The winning entry is advanced through state, division, and national levels of judging. Local DAR Good Citizens who enter the scholarship contest are eligible for awards beyond the local, chapter level. State winners receive a cash award of at least $500.00 in addition to a State Pin and Certificate. The next level of advancement is the Divisional Level which includes multiple states’ winners. Each of the eight Divisional winners receive a cash award of $1000.00. A National winner will be invited to Washington, D.C. to attend Continental Congress and will be awarded a $10,000.00 scholarship, an inscribed bowl and a certificate. Miss Sulser has already written her essay at Chester High School under supervision and had submitted it to DAR officials for judging. She was selected for her honor as Chester High School’s 2024-25 DAR Good Citizen by nominations from CHS teachers.

CGS & CHS: KINDNESS WEEK & FAMILY GAME NIGHT Kindness Week Dress-Up Days, Tuesday Nov. 12 - Friday Nov. 15 Family Game Night, Wednesday Nov. 13 See attached graphics for details.

Photo 6 COIN TOSS YellowJacket seniors meet in the center of W.O. Smith Field for the pre-game coin toss with members of the Westville Tigers. Westville won the toss and elected to receive to start the game. Jim Beers Photo Photo 7 Cheerleaders Chester High School Cheerleaders, under the direction of Karson Colvis and Cassy Helmers, perform during pre-game festivities Saturday November 2 at the 2024 IHSA Class 2A State Football Playoffs. he event was hosted by CHS at W.O. Smith Field. No. 7 Chester hosted No. 10 Westville in a close and exciting game that featured a total of 11 touchdowns, six for Chester and five for Westville. CHS won, 40-35, to advance to the 2024 "Sweeet-16". Chester will travel to No. 2 Maroa-Forsyth Saturday November 9 to take on the Trojans at 2:30 p.m. Jim Beers Photo Photo 8 Marching YellowJackets The 2024 Chester High School Marching YellowJackets perform the National Anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner" at the 2024 IHSA Class 2A State Football Playoffs Saturday November 2 at Chester's W.O. Smith Field. The Marching YellowJackets are under the direction of Steve Colonel and Drum Majors Will Welge, Jaden Lopez, and Addy Gottschammer. Jim Beers Photo Photo 9 YellowJackets take the field The Chester High School Football YellowJackets take the field prior to the start of ther2024 IHSA Class 2A State Football First Round game between No. 7 Chester and No. 10 Westville. Leading the charge carrying the orange and black YellowJacket flags are seniors Alex Williamson (66) and Nate Maes (55). The No. 7 Jackets won the contest, 40-35. and will advance to Round 2, "The Sweet-16", to face the No. 2 Maroa-Forsyth Trojans Saturday November 9 on the road at 2:30 p.m. Jim Beers Photo.