Spring 2012 - Oxford Community Schools

Wildcat Review
OxfOrd COmmunity SChOOlS
creating a world-class education today to shape tomorrow’s selfless, global leaders
straight talk
Dr. William C. Skilling
Superintendent
four years ago, we embarked on
a strategic planning process with
more than eighty people who
represented staff, students, parents,
community leaders, administrators and
the Board of Education. Together, we
authenticated an ambitious, long-range
plan that would serve as our road
map for the next five years. The plan
included goal statements, strategies
for achieving the goals, action plans,
and time tables for implementation.
Although many of the faces have
changed over the years, the core values
and vision statement have remained
the same.
It is quite astounding to look back
on the milestones we have achieved
together these past four years. The
journey has been about having the
courage to pursue a vision and coming
together as a community to achieve
something extraordinary. I wish there
was a way to bottle the energy that
was in the room this year at Strategic
Planning. We will attempt to convey
the same information and emotion in
this issue of the Wildcat Review. As we
remind ourselves of the goals in our
strategic plan, let us also celebrate how
far we have come. Thank you for taking
the journey with us!
“Good to use school
facilities. Great
food!” EliZABEth
ruff, Parent
“informative for parents
and staff members. All
suggestions were heard.”
KriStinA StAnlEy,
Parapro
“i liked being involved
in the process. it opened
my eyes about the
district...” COllEEn
GOdWin, Parent
“my thinking was
transformed today. Keep
doing what you are
doing. Wow!” BryAn
ClOutiEr,
Oxford Public library
director
“Good collaboration
with people outside
of the school setting.”
miKE WAtSOn,
Athletic director
“Being able to talk about issues
and share my input as a student
was an extraordinary experience.”
AShtOn hulBErt, OhS Junior
“i love having
parents and the
community involved
in planning.We need
to do more of this.”
drEW hulBErt,
Virtual Academy
director
“the day was stimulating
and enjoyable. i’m looking
forward to seeing where Oxford
goes from here.” tArlA
GErnErt, homeschool
Connections

G
2 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Goal
Graduate students who are prepared for ever-changing global
opportunities and who embody our core values evidenced by
the Oxford student profile/exit outcomes.
Academics
Oxford graduates will have 21st-
century global skills that are second
to none. Rigorous programs in
science, math and second language
disciplines, along with a healthy
infusion of fine arts and athletics, all
contribute to the holistic development
of our students. Our success comes
from having a clear vision as well as
the ambition, enthusiasm and focus to
implement it. Offering programs that
focus on growing industries demonstrates
Oxford’s commitment to graduating
knowledgeable, well-rounded and
employable citizens. In the past five years,
Oxford has changed many processes,
added innovative programs, and engaged
the faculty in new teaching methods that
will raise the bar to a much higher level of
learning for all students.
Arts
The fine arts
play an integral
role in Oxford’s
curriculum.
While many
schools are
cutting programs to balance their
bottom lines, Oxford has taken a vastly
different approach by strengthening
its commitment and increasing K-12
offerings. As a result, participation in
the arts has never been higher.
Our priority is to instill an understanding
and appreciation for the arts at an early
age, because whether in front of a
supportive audience or under the heat
of the stage lights, performing teaches
children about creativity, discipline and
critical thinking in a way that can’t be
replicated in a classroom. The fine arts
also nourish the soul.
Athletics
While the goal
of any athletic
competition is
to triumph over
an opponent,
so much more
is expected of
Oxford’s student
athletes. Whether
on the field,
court, course or mat, students learn
intangible qualities like teamwork,
sacrifice, selflessness and selfdiscipline
as they hone their athletic
skills and develop their natural
talents. By offering 24 varsity sports
in 61 different squads, as well as a
variety of sporting clubs and middle
school programs, Oxford coaches
and sponsors are able to instill these
valuable life lessons in our athletes.
L. bROOKS PATTERSOn
OAKLAnd COUnTY EXECUTIVE
“Oxford is leading the way with some of their
really innovative, far-reaching programs.”
CBS’ “michigan matters” television interview
with Carol Cain, April 21, 2011
Student leaders Attend State Conference
Joyful, Healthy, Confident!
the Girls on the
Run® program
is growing in
popularity among
the girls at Clear
Lake, Lakeville and
Oxford Elementary
Schools. It offers so
much more than
running! Practices
include lessons
from an established
curriculum that
promotes healthy lifestyles. The group covers topics such as
self-esteem, self-confidence, bullying, gossip, and more. At the
end of every season, there is a non-competitive celebratory
5K run/walk for participants. This year’s event will be held
on Sunday, May 20, 10 AM at Oakland University. Bring your
cameras and lawn chairs and come out to cheer on our girls!
MICHAEL FLAnAGAn
MICHIGAn dEPARTMEnT OF
EdUCATIOn
SUPERInTEndEnT OF PUbLIC
InSTRUCTIOn
“This is the top district I’ve seen
so far to prepare folks for a global
world. I need to find a way to
intrigue others to learn more about
what Oxford is doing.”
Based on an outstanding
presentation at the Regional
Connect Conference, OHS
senior KALA SEAWRIGHT and junior
MOLLY SCHULTZ were invited to pitch
their “Girls’ Slumber Party” project
in the Student Showcase at the 2012
Student State Conference held at
Grand Traverse Resort. Judges liked
their project for its fresh idea and the
fact that it could easily be adapted by other schools. The conference was hosted
by one of Michigan’s largest student leadership groups, the Michigan Associations
of Student Councils and Honor Societies (MASC/MAHS). The 4,000 people in
attendance represented groups from across Michigan, including student councils,
leadership classes, honor societies, and those individuals that advise them. Other
student leaders from Oxford who attended the conference included SIERRAH
MACOCHA, MARSHALL VERSTEEG, ASHTOn HULbERT, MIRAndA KUCEMbA,
MARA LOWE, EMILY CLELAnd, CHRISTInA CHIZMAdIA and dAnIELLE bLACK,
along with student council advisors KATIE GOETZ and KATIE bLASZCZYK.
Academic Groups Prepare
Students for future Success
P Business Professionals of America students consistently
place in regional, state and national competitions. Eighteen
students earned top honors in 2011-12. This year’s web design
team placed seventh in the nation!
P The DECA Club for future marketers and entrepreneurs
has a rich history of success at state and international levels.
The highest percentage of champions in the district’s history
earned state championship status in 2010. As this issue
prints, seventeen students are competing at the international
conference in Salt Lake City.
P A growing number of students are attracted to the digital
media arts program. The digital lab simulates a media
environment, giving students hands-on lessons in production
work and digital media development.

G
4 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Goal
Create a model global learning community that maximizes
student achievement and promotes excellence.
Oxford international
residence Academy
The international
boarding school
opened fall 2011.
It is a three-year
international
high school for
international
students seeking
an American education. We have
Chinese students attending Oxford
High School for one to three years in
order to earn a diploma and attend an
American University.
fifth Core World
language & Culture
Oxford is
creating a model
global learning
environment
in which every
student will be
fluent in another
world language and its culture/
customs (Spanish or Chinese) by
8th grade. Fifth Core is the largest
proficiency-based world language
program in Michigan. There are over
2,200 students studying Mandarin
Chinese and over 2,200 students
studying Spanish. This is an 11-year
required program for grades pre-K
thru ten. We expanded the Chinese
immersion program in 2010 to include
preschool in cooperation with the
Confucius Institute. As preschool
students advance into the elementary
schools, we will add one grade per
year to the program. We are also
researching a third world language
at Oxford High School (to augment
fluency), such as Arabic or Indian, for
which demand and job opportunities
are growing.
Asia Society
Confucius Classroom
network
We are one of only 100 districts
nationwide to be accepted into
this network of “Model” Confucius
Classrooms. Oxford has the largest
proficiency-based Mandarin Chinese
language and culture program within
the network, five
times larger than
the next largest
program in the
U.S.
OxfordnEt
We are
implementing
classrooms without
walls with cuttingedge
technology
using OxfordNET
so students can
participate in collaborative projects
and distance learning locally,
statewide, nationally and globally.
OxfordNET is our instructional
delivery mechanism for effective and
efficient instruction that supports
teachers in their endeavor to teach
Net Fluency.
Sister Schools
NET
We now have a total
of eleven premier
sister schools in
China that share
similar educational
philosophies
and support our
Oxford
Networking for Educational Transformation
Mandarin Chinese program. We also
have sister schools in England, South
Africa, Spain, and Mexico.
international high
School in China
Oxford is the first American public
school to open an international high
school in China, the Northeast Yucai
Oxford International High School.
Opening ceremonies
were held
September 1, 2011.
Plans are underway
to open another
school in China the
fall of 2012.
OBA Global Village
OBA is a global education network
coordinated by
the College of
Education at
the University
of Oregon.
Members are
connected
through an
online learning platform that provides
a secure environment for schools to
connect globally with multiple levels
of functionality for students and
educational leaders. Oxford is one of
only 25 schools worldwide selected
for this pilot. The OBA community
organizes events such as science fairs,
global expedition, teaching contests,
film festivals, festivals of the arts,
app and game contests, and creative
writing.
fun in four languages
Spanish, Chinese,
American Sign Language
and English students
had quite a time during
Oxford High School’s world
fair week. Making the décor
fit the cultures, they hung
brightly colored posters in
the hallway depicting symbols
and slogans from each
language. The classrooms
were just as decked out with
cultural art and artifacts, as
well as authentic foods to sample. Traveling to one another’s classrooms,
students enjoyed the pastimes of other cultures, including salsa dancing,
Ping-Pong, and crafts. Authentic pastries from Mexican Village in Detroit were definitely a fan favorite! What a creative collaboration by
teachers JAn SMITH (Spanish), dIAnA MCCOnnELL (Spanish), CYnTHIA WHITE (Spanish), dEb bROWn (American Sign Language), FAn LI
(Chinese), and CRYSTAL CORbETT (English).
Oxford honored at the national Chinese
language Conference
in Washington, D.C., Dr. Skilling and Dr. Schwarz accepted the
Confucius Classroom plaque from Madam Xu Lin, Director General
of the Hanban. Dedicated to encouraging dialogue in the field of
Chinese language education, the National Chinese Language Conference
included a whole host of speakers, workshops and cultural events.
It is the largest gathering of practitioners, policymakers, and school
leaders with an interest in Chinese language teaching and learning in
North America, and a key venue for bringing together U.S. and Chinese
educators in the field.
Preschool Spring Concert
About 150 of Oxford’s littlest darlings took to the Fine
Arts Center stage to delight the audience with songs
in Chinese, Spanish, and English. Dressed to the nines,
the students from eleven different programs drew a capacity
crowd to watch them perform in the Oxford Early Learning
Center’s first annual spring concert. A lot of practice went into
learning the musical selections, which included “Caminar” (a
movement song in Spanish), “Octopus” (aka “Slippery Fish”),
“Liang Zhi Laohu” (“Two Tigers” in Chinese), and “One Small
Voice.” All those sweet little voices together resonated in a
really big way for every child, family member, and staff in
attendance. Great job, OELC!

G
6 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Goal
Create an organizational structure that supports meaningful,
effective, and efficient changes in curriculum and changes in
instructional practices.
international
Baccalaureate
Oxford High
School is an
authorized
International
Baccalaureate
World School,
Diploma
Programme. All
other Oxford schools are candidates
for International Baccalaureate
(IB) World Schools accreditation.
Oxford has the most certified IB
teachers and administrators—over
250—in the world. We anticipate full
implementation and accreditation
district-wide by the fall of 2013.
Collegiate Schedule
collegiate
schedule
Last fall Oxford High School launched
a new schedule to spread learning out
over a greater length of time during the
school year. This mechanism is referred
to as the “Collegiate Schedule,” and the
use of a rotating schedule makes it one
of a kind. Consisting of two semesters
and a May term, the Collegiate Schedule
requires students to be enrolled in
seven classes; however, only six periods
are in session each day. Each day of
the week one class period rotates out,
balancing the schedule so that students
will attend all seven classes four times
per week. The May term consists of five
class periods. It provides students with
more extensive remediation and credit
recovery opportunities than ever before.
It also offers innovative classes that take
ENROLL IN VIRTUAL ACADEMY
SUMMER CLASSES: (248) 969-5009
an expanded approach to differentiated
instruction. They are geared toward
student interest while enhancing core
skills. Optional zero and eighth period
classes are available for those students
who are interested in creating more
flexibility and options in their day.
Early College
Early College is
a rigorous, fiveyear
high school,
combining
the best of
high school
and college
experiences.
Oxford Schools Early College (OSEC)
offers both online/virtual and faceto-face
instruction to enable students
to earn a high school diploma as
well as up to 60 transferable college
credits. OSEC provides a supportive
educational environment through
the use of Mentor Teachers for
students throughout Oakland County,
as well as all contiguous counties.
Students can earn credits from
Oakland Community College (OCC) or
Rochester College for free, while still
attending Oxford High School.
S C H O O L S
OXFORD
EARLY COLLEGE
Early high School
In the Early
High School
Program,
middle school
students can
earn up to
seven high
school credits in
the classroom and an additional nine
credits in virtual classes, making it
possible for them to enter high school
as juniors.
Oxford Virtual
Academy
The Oxford Virtual Academy (OVA)
is by no means a one-size-fits-all
school with only one virtual provider.
Students can choose from a variety
of course providers, including e2020,
Aventa Learning, PowerSpeak, Lincoln
Interactive, Plato Learning and K12,
Inc. There are more than 180 different
courses for grades kindergarten through
twelve. Every family meets with a
full-time staff counselor to review the
student’s goals and to determine the
best virtual coursework that fits his or
her individual learning style. Students
receive a customized education which
builds on their unique strengths.
OVA is fully accredited to provide
virtual courses for students in grades
kindergarten through twelve, including
required world language classes in
grades three to twelve. About 400
students took at least one OVA course
in the 2011-2012 school year, with 300
of them enrolling from another district
or through the district’s homeschool
partnership. Some students are seeking
credit recovery while others take
advantage of the scheduling flexibility
offered by online classes. Yet others
pursue upper-level coursework, such
as AP courses not in the district’s
traditional classrooms. There are also
unique electives students can take
advantage of, such as art history, solar
technologies, Java programming and
introduction to screenwriting.
Global trade mission 2012
OHS Students Compete in a “Shark Tank” Environment
have you ever watched the TV series Shark Tank which has a panel of investors called sharks consider investing in an entrepreneur’s
business or product? That was the scenario for six OHS students when they participated in the 14th annual Oakland Schools
Global Trade Mission 2012 (GTM) at Oakland Community College. The program is an intensive, three-day, international global
trade mission in which students challenge their entrepreneurial spirits and global knowledge and compete against other Oakland County
high schools. GTM simulates a global business venture in which students learn about other cultures, emerging technologies, how to do
business and compete in a global economy.
Students select a country from one of five
regions (Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia/North
America, and Latin America) and work with
Automation Alley and other Michigan business
and industry representatives. They SKYPE
with individuals from their selected country
to learn more about the culture and business
environment. They also explore some of the
top growing industries globally, including
cleantech and renewable energy, defense and
homeland security, information technology
and cybersecurity, life sciences and medical
devices, and robotics and automation. Teams
create a new product using green technology
and a business plan to compete and sell in
their country. Finally, the teams present their
products and plans to a panel of investors
and compete for financial
backing. Many of our
teams received investment
awards, and OHS senior
WILLIAM LOGAn
received the highest honor
ABOVE L-R: LAUREN UBBING, MACKENZIE CREASEY, JESSICA BRASINGTON, RACHEL SAIGH, DANIEL GAVRILOVSKI
AND WILLIAM LOGAN.
Science on the Go!
at the conference, the
Exportmanship Award for
teamwork.
After school enrichment programs such as Science on the Go! by the Cranbrook
Institute of Science give elementary students a chance to explore geology,
physics, zoology, and more. The Institute brings all the supplies necessary to set
up fun, interactive learning stations in subjects that young minds are most interested
in. The whole family can take part in the fun, visiting the various stations and learning
together. Daniel Axford Elementary recently took part in the program and transformed
its gymnasium into a cool science museum with exhibits to learn about static electricity,
dinosaurs, animal skulls and pelts,
magnetism, roller coasters and
inertia, light and heat, and much
more. There were even Madagascar
hissing cockroaches. Yikes!

G
8 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Goal
Implement research-based curriculum and instructional practices
that include authentic communication of student achievement.
Oxford Academy
of Engineering &
technology
The Academy of Engineering &
Technology is a four-year, nationally-
certified engineering program
at Oxford High School that offers
eight different engineering courses. In
addition, the high school offers four
college engineering courses from
Lawrence Technological University.
The newly renovated pre-engineering
lab is outfitted with all the requisite
tools for students to explore
engineering concepts, find solutions
to design-build challenges, and
test their finished products. The
engineering courses are not just for
those students who are mechanically
inclined or have a passion to become
engineers. Every student can benefit
by understanding the thought process
inherent in engineering as well as
learning how to multi-task, work in
groups, and meet deadlines.
Biomedical Sciences
Program
Students can prepare for careers
in healthcare sciences or research
through the nationally-certified
Biomedical Sciences Program at
Oxford High School. The program is a
rigorous, four-year venture that gives
students hands-on training in the
principles of biomedical sciences, the
human body systems, medical
interventions, and science research.
Biomedical Sciences is a broad field
that encompasses biochemistry,
biomedical engineering, dentistry
forensics, microbiology, immunology,
pharmacology, physiology,
radiological sciences and more. The
engineering and biomedical programs
at Oxford High School are among the
most comprehensive in Michigan.
Science, technology,
Engineering & math
(StEm)
Oxford High School received national
certification for its Project Lead The
Way (PLTW) program that it has
been offering since 2009. PLTW, the
nation’s leading provider of science,
technology, engineering, and math
(STEM) education programs, offers
a rigorous curriculum that allows
students to apply what they are
learning in math and science classes
to real-life engineering and technology
projects. Rather than sitting passively
and listening to lectures, students are
building, developing and creating. It’s
the kind of hands-on experience that
engages more students in science,
technology, engineering and math.
Students from certified Project Lead
the Way Schools may receive college
admissions preference, college credit
and scholarships.
Oxford Bridges
Alternative high
School
Students enrolled in the Bridges
Alternative High School can step
beyond traditional boundaries
and take a different route to receive
their diplomas. The first of its kind
in Michigan, this program has an
integrated curriculum that provides
simulated and real-life opportunities
for learning. It offers an attractive
option for students who crave the
freedom to express themselves in
different ways, at their own pace, and
in smaller peer groups--while earning
a diploma. Cinematography, boatbuilding,
and publishing are some of
the unique options at Bridges.
music maestros
Oxford is the only public school
district in Michigan to have a
kindergarten through twelfth grade
orchestra program.
roboCats Continue their Winning Ways
Oxford High
School’s
RoboCats are
among the world’s best.
Placing in the top 16
in world competition
in the 2009-10 season,
Team TORC (The Oxford
RoboCats) next returned
a 7th place finish in the
2010-11 season. TORC
was also the only undefeated team in the 2010 Oakland County Robotics Competition. This year Team TORC took home the prestigious
2012 Regional Chairman’s Award, which honors the team that best represents a model for other teams to emulate and best embodies
the purpose and goals of FIRST®. The award submission requirements included a 10,000-character large essay; seven, 500-character short
response essays; photographs; a three-minute video; a ten-minute presentation; and an interview with judges. Team TORC’s submittal,
with an election year theme and a campaign slogan of “Take the Longshot...Change the Culture,” was the clear winner in the judges’
eyes. This is what the judges had to say: “The matrix organizational structure is valuable to how you operate and establish roles and
responsibilities. Your outreach activities are innovative, and your enthusiasm for FIRST® and learning is a definite asset. Your work with
charities are both meaningful to your team and improve your community. Your outreach is evidence that you are taking the spirit of FIRST®
to heart. The increase in female participation to a ‘non-traditional’ technical environment is a positive. We were also impressed that you
contributed to the development of a technical curriculum for middle and high school that supported the robotics team and earned college
credit. We also liked that you were creative and tied the election year to this year’s game in your presentation. You are a well-organized
and very energetic team with great leadership skills. Keep raising the bar and striving to continue to be role models for other teams using
FIRST® as your guide. Great job!”
Students Compete in State finals
PHOTO BY SHANNON STRONG
Another year, another trip to state finals. The long-standing success and recognition of Oxford’s outstanding Automotive
Technologies program is a testament to instructor Dan Balsley. He really knows how to engage students and motivate them to
perform well, and we are extremely proud. Oxford’s nationally-recognized program has sent teams of young mechanics to state
and national finals in nearly every year of its 24-year existence. Above left, OHS junior PAUL STROnG and senior KYLE FEEnEY pose with
teacher dAn bALSLEY and their sixth-place trophy from the AAA/Ford Auto Skills State Finals. Above right, the boys work together to debug
a Ford Focus during the competition. More than 20 fellow students and family members came to cheer the boys on. Way to go, boys!

G
10 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Goal
Create facilities of excellence, incorporating the elements of
being safe and secure, developmentally appropriate, and
instructionally sound.
new theater Classroom
Expands Educational Opportunities
this summer work will begin on transforming office space at the high school into a theater classroom with lighting,
sound and other enhancements that will be an ideal classroom for theater students. The theater room will also
provide a performance quality area for play casts to rehearse and orchestra members to practice, freeing up the
main Fine Arts Center stage for additional performances and activities the community can enjoy.
Classical dance
Classes Coming
Soon
news that dance classes are
being introduced into the
curriculum at Oxford High
School has hit the streets, and we
are already enrolling new students.
Thanks to additional space available
in the new theater classroom,
students can elect to take classical
dance courses, such as ballet and
tap, beginning in the fall of 2013.
new and Expanded facilities
Equal emphasis in each of the three A’s (academics, arts,
athletics) is an important aspect of our mission, so
the work in these categories aligns well with our core
beliefs. The 2009 bond projects are a true reflection of what is
most important to the Oxford community—safety and security,
increased capacity, modern technologies that incorporate
global education concepts, and good stewardship of community
resources.

G
12 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Goal
TEo mploy
core values.
create a model staff who global model learning learner community outcomes that and maximizes exemplify our
student achievement and promotes excellence.
What’s in our dnA?
• Over 500 employees
• 50% of our employees live in Oxford
• 70% of the teaching staff hold master’s degrees and higher
• Six certified staff with doctoral degrees
• 261 teachers
• 22 administrators
• 20 master teachers/teacher leaders (proven mentors)
• 29 multilingual teachers (district-wide)
• Ten Spanish language teachers
• Five native Spanish language speakers
• Four Chinese language teachers
• Eleven native Chinese language speakers
• Eight International Baccalaureate coordinators
• Six counselors
• 46 paraeducators
• 18 secretarial and support staff
• Eight Technology Services staff
• 34 Nutrition Services staff
• 44 Transportation staff
• 31 Oxford Early Learning Center staff
• 13 tutorial assistants
• Oxford High School: 1,438 students
• Oxford Middle School: 1,031 students
• Oxford Elementary School (Grades 3-5): 456 students
• Daniel Axford Elementary School (Grades K-2): 475 students
• Leonard Elementary School: 262 students
• Lakeville Elementary School: 414 students
• Clear Lake Elementary School: 551 students
• Oxford Early Learning Center: Approximately 150 students
• Oxford Bridges Alternative School: 39 students
• Crossroads for Youth: 68 students
• Oxford Virtual Academy: 320 students
• NYO International School, Fushun, China: 35 students
• Oxford International Residence Academy: 9 students
• Oxford Schools Early College: Opening Fall 2012
Just as we have high expectations of our students, there
is also a high standard of excellence for staff. We have
talented teachers, support staff and administrators
who deliver their services with pride and who are genuinely
focused on student achievement. Best of all, we have hundreds
of dedicated, supportive parents, community members and
volunteers who selflessly contribute countless hours to event
planning, field trips, carpools, PTOs, and all things Oxford. We
have a charitable culture where all hands work together as one
for the students—that’s the bottom line.
did you know that Oxford completed its first, official,
long-range professional development (PD) plan
last fall? A central part of OCS’ Concept Plan for
Professional Learning is the creation of a School of Professional
Learning (PD school) called the “CatsCast Educator Academy
and Repository” (C 2 EAR). C 2 EAR is housed online through
PowerSchool Studio (OCS’ learning management suite of
products), and it supplies a myriad of digital assets, resources,
learning communities, and classes and training for the
administrative and teaching staffs in an online and/or hybrid
(blended) format. All administrators and teachers are enrolled
in C 2 EAR as students, and they have access to its resources
twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Use of the same
tool (PowerSchool Studio) by administrative and teaching
personnel as students of C 2 EAR will afford them greater leverage
as instructors of their own pupils.
free Bike helmets for
Second Graders
PHOTO BY OXFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT
Oxford Paws Basketball team Wins State Championship!
in the last four years, the Oxford Fire Department and
McLaren Oakland Hospital have fitted every second
grader in Oxford with a brand new bicycle helmet. This
year representatives from United Healthcare, the Oxford
Fire Department and McLaren Oakland Hospital fitted and
distributed nearly 500 free helmets! Since the inception of this
program, the rate of bicycle-related injuries seen in emergency
centers has decreased dramatically.
Congratulations to our Special Olympics basketball
team on defeating Bay City 33-26 to win the
Division 5 State Championship. The entire
student body at Oxford High School recognized the team
for this great accomplishment at a special recognitions
assembly in the student commons. Oakland County Arc’s
2012 Teacher of the Year JEAnnE dICICCO created the
L.O.F.T. program three years ago. It serves 18- to 26-year-old
Oxford students with developmental disabilities or cognitive
impairment. The program focuses on preparing young men
and women for a productive and fulfilling adult life, and
the teaching staff keeps them busy. From the home base at
Oxford High School, L.O.F.T. students sell coffee to the staff,
work in the school store, make and sell balloon bouquets,
bake and sell apple pies, work at fundraisers in local businesses, and give back to the community by volunteering at the Oxford-Orion Fish
Pantry. Planned field trips such as horseback riding, art therapy, adaptive swimming, and exercise incorporate leisure, recreation and therapeutic
strategies. Jeanne DiCiccio has established relationships with outside agencies which will assist with independent living when the students leave
at age 26. Jeanne has a heart of gold and is tireless in providing the best services for her L.O.F.T. kids. To her students and their families, Jeanne is
not only teacher of the year, but teacher of a lifetime!

G
14 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Goal
Embrace the community while working together to
achieve common goals and plan future endeavors.
For just the cost
of a cup of coffee per
day, you can be part of
the Wildcat legacy. To
make a turf donation,
call Randy Reason at
248-431-0253 or visit
oxfordboosters.com.
P Cooperative
spirit
P Active PtOs
P Committed
volunteers
P Caring
community
local Service Groups Provide
Assistance to Oxford/Orion Students
Scholarships and STRIVE are just a
few of the ways the Oxford Rotary
Club provides assistance to Oxford
students. For over fifteen years, the Rotary
has provided three $1,000 scholarships
annually to senior students planning to
further their education. In awarding these
scholarships each year, members are
impressed by the outstanding accomplishments of Oxford students.
In addition, students working to improve their academic success
through the STRIVE Program also receive guidance, encouragement,
and monetary rewards from dedicated Rotarians who meet with them
on a regular basis throughout the year. The Rotary Club of Oxford is
a service organization that provides assistance on a local, regional
and global level. Rotary International has been a major contributor
to efforts to eradicate polio across the globe, with every Rotarian
participating in this humanitarian effort. So when you meet Rotarians
who are selling raffle tickets, working at local events such as the
annual car show during Celebrate Oxford, or sponsoring golf outings,
dances, or the annual Senior Christmas dinner, ask them about what
you can do to help. For further information about the Oxford Rotary
Club, visit www.oxford-rotary.com.
Support your PtO / Collect Box tops for Cash
THE CLEAR LAKE PTO WAS FIRST TO INITIATE AND DELIVER ON SUCH A
HUGE CAPITAL OUTLAY PROJECT FOR THE KIDS. THE NEW 40’ X 8’ TRAVERSE
ROCK WALL BENEFITS STUDENTS IN MANY AREAS, INCLUDING ACADEMICS,
CONFIDENCE, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, RISK-TAKING. ABOVE, FOURTH-
GRADERS AnnIE CRAWFORd (RIGHT) AND RACHEL WHITT ARE SETTING THEIR
SIGHTS HIGH AS THEY TRY OUT THE NEW WALL.
Sign up
now for
the 13th
Annual Kiwanis
Golf Outing at
Boulder Pointe
Golf Club on
Friday, June 8. The outing price of $99 per person includes
18 holes of golf (scramble format), putting and driving range,
lunch, dinner, open bar and awards. If you are not a golfer,
there are several sponsorship opportunities to consider.
All of the proceeds from the Kiwanis Golf Outing directly
benefit children in the Oxford/Orion area. In fact, seventy
percent of the proceeds are earmarked for scholarship
awards. So gather your foursomes and come on out for a
fun day of golf to support the Oxford/Orion kids. Could there
be some friendly competition between the Oxford/Orion
high school golf teams? Just an idea.
To register, contact Eddie Hunwick (248-969-0152) or Carol
Mitchell (248-884-1133).
did you know that
Oxford PTOs have
raised enough
funds to complete major
projects at our schools,
such as installing new
playground equipment
and putting up rock
climbing walls in our
gymnasiums? Every year the parent-teacher groups
in our schools go above and beyond for the benefit of
our students. Whether the groups are hosting Fun(d)
Runs, movie nights, haunted houses, spring fairs, or
myriad other projects, there is no shortage of passionate
volunteers who get involved for the welfare of our
students. A little effort goes a long way, and everyone
can help. For example, by simply turning in box tops,
the Box Tops for Education organization gave a total of
$15,400 to our schools this year. Clipping box tops from
the items you already buy for your family and sending
them in to school can add up to serious cash. So let’s all
look for the logo, reach for a pair of scissors, and start
clipping! Learn more about Box Tops for Education at
www.boxtops4education.com. Questions can also be
directed to your school’s PTO via each school’s website.

G
16 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Opportunities
Whether students are interested in working hard or playing
hard, they have a wide variety of groups to choose from to
connect with like-minded peers.
Performing Arts
• Spring musicals
• Improv group
• Full-length plays
• One-act performances
• Scene, lighting, and sound design
• Technical theater production
• High school classical dance program
(ballet and tap) coming fall 2013
Visual Arts
• Ceramics
• Graphic arts
• Drawing and painting
• Photography
digital media Arts
• News broadcasting
• Animation and digital imaging
• Virtual technology
• Multimedia design and IT
• Web design
• Webmasters
Vocal music
• Elementary Supersingers Club
OXFORd MIddLE SCHOOL
• Sixth-grade Celebration Choir
• Seventh-grade Festival Choir
• Eighth-grade Concert Choir
• Eighth-grade Honors Choir
OXFORd HIGH SCHOOL
• Concert Choir
• Women’s Choir
• Caritas
• Men’s Choir
• Chorale
• Treble Ensemble
• Men’s Ensemble
instrumental music
OXFORd MIddLE SCHOOL
• Sixth-grade band
• Two seventh-grade bands
• Two eighth-grade bands
• World Music Drumming
OXFORd HIGH SCHOOL
• Three concert bands
• Symphonic Band
• Marching Band
• Jazz Band
• Jazz Combo
• Pit Band for musicals and plays
Orchestra
• Beginning strings for grades 4-5
• Second-year orchestra for grade 5
• Suzuki Strings for grades K-2 (K-3 next fall)
(classical guitar or violin)
• Middle school honors orchestra
• Sixth-grade orchestra
• Seventh-grade orchestra
• Eighth-grade orchestra
• High school ninth-grade orchestra
• High school symphony orchestra
FREE admission to
any school event for
Oxford’s K12 students
and younger siblings
who are accompanied
by an adult.
Oxford String Celebration
with The Michigan Arab Orchestra
May 29, 2012, 7 PM
Oxford Middle School
Field House
OhS Choirs and distinguished Guests
Present Ola Gjeilo’s Sunrise Mass
PHOTOS BY MATT KOHLI JOHNSON
the Oxford High School Choirs recently brought
Carnegie Hall to Oxford when they hired Dr. Craig
Arnold, one of the premier choral directors in the
country, to serve as a conductor-in-residence at Oxford
High School. Over a weekend in February, Dr. Arnold
rehearsed 130 select members of the Oxford High School
Choirs along with 50 invited guest vocalists from Grand
Haven High School and Rochester College. Together, the
180 vocalists performed Ola Gjeilo’s Sunrise Mass for
choir and string orchestra in Oxford’s Fine Arts Center.
Some of the best professional string players in southeast
Michigan served as the string orchestra.
“The Masterworks program with Conductor-In-Residence Craig Arnold was a huge hit for
all of our vocalists and the large audience that took in the breathtaking Sunrise Mass. Our
vocalists had a musical experience they will never forget.”
CHRISTOPHER CARD, OHS CHOIRS DIRECTOR
Ola Gjeilo’s Sunrise Mass has only been performed eight times worldwide. This work is
rapidly receiving attention among collegiate, community and advanced high school choirs
around the country. The Sunrise Mass is powerfully moving, as it depicts the dramatic
impact of the world around us. Ola composes his music visually, much of it sounding
like a film score. Sunrise Mass made a dramatic impact on the Oxford audience as it
enthusiastically responded with a two-minute standing ovation!
Oxford high School Presents Into the Woods

G
18 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
fall Sports
• Boys cross country
• Girls cross country
• Football
• Girls golf
• Boys soccer
• Girls swim and dive
• Volleyball
• Sideline cheer
Winter Sports
• Boys basketball
• Girls basketball
• Boys bowling
• Girls bowling
• Competitive cheer
• Ice hockey
• Boys skiing
• Girls skiing
• Boys swim and dive
• Wrestling
Spring Sports
• Baseball
• Boys golf
• Boys lacrosse
• Girls lacrosse
• Girls soccer
• Softball
• Boys track and field
• Girls track and field
Club Sports
• Equestrian team
• Boys tennis
• Girls tennis
middle School Sports
• Seventh-grade football
• Eighth-grade football
• Seventh-grade volleyball (2 teams)
• Eighth-grade volleyball (2 teams)
• Competitive cheer
• Sideline cheer
• Cross country
• Seventh-grade boys basketball (2 teams)
• Eighth-grade boys basketball (2 teams)
• Seventh-grade girls basketball (2 teams)
• Eighth-grade girls basketball (2 teams)
• Wrestling
• Boys track & field
• Girls track & field
Clubs and Groups
HIGH SCHOOL
• Adventure Club
• National Honor Society
• Student Council
• International Club
• SADD (Students Against Destructive
Decisions)
• RoboCats (Robotics)
• DECA
• Business Professionals of America (BPA)
• Webmasters
• Oxford Theater Company
• Color Guard
• Quiz Bowl
• Yearbook
• OHS Scratching Post (Newspaper)
• Auto Club
• Writers’ Club
• Oxford Dance Team
zERO pAY-TO-pLAY fEES
AOpportunities
thletics
are such an essential part of learning that Oxford gives
all of its students unparalleled, free access to its excellent
athletic programs. There are no barriers to participation.
MIddLE SCHOOL
• Student Council
• Science Olympiad Club
• Computer Club
• Drumfire Drummers
• Homework Club
• SADD (Students Against Destructive
Decisions)
• Art Club
• Wildcat Drummers
• Drama Club
• Photography Club
• Thunder Drummers
• Book Club
• Cycling Club
• Tae Kwan Do
• Sixth-grade Running Club
• Creature Card Club
ADVENTURE CLUB WHITEWATER
RAFTING TRIP
ELEMEnTARY SCHOOLS
• Student Council
• Peer Mediators
• Peacemakers
• Junior First LEGO League
• Battle of the Books
• Destination Imagination
• Math Pentathlon
• Kids2Kids Reading Club
• Academic Games
• Imagineers
• Supersingers
• Green Teams
• Chess Club
• Safety Patrol
• Suzuki Stringers
• Walking Club
• Fitness Club
Varsity Basketball Season recap
• Bowlers: The most we have ever had on the all-county team!
• Oxford boys lacrosse wins season opener 2-1 over Waterford
United. Great win for Coach Normand in his first season at the
helm!
• Boys lacrosse claims come-from-behind victory over Royal Oak!
• Oxford varsity girls lacrosse wins a barn burner, 12-11 over
Carman-Ainsworth. Nice!
• OHS girls softball and boys baseball teams doing well!
• Oxford junior bROOKE KOVACIC breaks the 3200m school record,
running 10:56.7 against Stoney Creek on a chilly night!
• Right down to the wire, Oxford boys track beats Stoney Creek 66-
62, while the girls win 69-59. Both came down to the last race!
• Boys golf team has undefeated dual match record.
With an overall record of 14-7, the
OHS boys’ basketball team had
the most wins in the modern era
(1950 to present). As a team, the Wildcats
had the most defensive rebounds in school
history with 448. Remarking on the muchimproved
season, Coach PAUL MARFIA
said, “On behalf of our entire organization,
I’d like to say we could not have been
as successful without the support of our
parents and the community. Thank you
for all you do together. We are building
a program that will make the Oxford
community proud.” High points of the season include beating Rochester Adams and Rochester
Stoney Creek for first time in school history. The varsity team had a couple
of standouts, OHS seniors JACQUES TOUSSAInT and MARK HAZELWOOd.
Toussaint was named to the 1st Team OAA All-Conference. Hazelwood racked
up a number of honors, including 1st Team All-Conference, All-State Basketball
Coaches Association of Michigan Honorable Mention, and becoming the sixth
all-time leading scorer in school history. The team will certainly miss its seniors.
These players have done a lot for the program and raised the expectation of
what Oxford basketball can be, and will be!
Since joining the OAA, Oxford students not only proved their athletic abilities, they triumphed in competitions, capturing three first-
place finishes and taking home a state championship in wrestling. This season Oxford athletes have continued their successes with a
state runner-up wrestling title, league championship cheerleadering team and regional girls bowling title. In addition, many athletes
have been named to all-state teams and some of the Oxford teams have moved to more advanced divisions within the OAA.
Spring and Winter team Shout Outs... 50th Annual Oxford invitational
FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS ON OXFORD ATHLETICS, FOLLOW
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR MIKE WATSON ON TWITTER @OXFORDAD.
• Oxford hosted 51 teams
• Boys team finished 12th of 26
• Girls team finished 8th of 25
bOYS TEAM
• COdY WESTMORELAnd, 8th place in long jump
• AnTHOnY CAPPUCCILLI, 2nd in 800-meter run
• ALEC SMITH, 6th place in two-mile run
• 4th place for two-mile relay team
GIRLS TEAM
• VICTORIA bEARSE, 7th place in shotput
• SARAH HILLEbRAnd, 5th place in pole vault
• bRI JACKSOn, 5th place in 100-meter run
• bROOKE KOVACIC, 2nd place in one-mile run
• CHELSEA JOHnSOn, 7th place in one-mile run
• bROOKE KOVACIC, 2nd place in two-mile run
• JEnnA FEEnEY, 8th place in two-mile run
• JESSICA MURPHY, 8th place in 800-meter run
• 5th place for two-mile relay team
• 7th place for one-mile relay team
• 400-meter relay team tied for 5th place

G
20 w w w . O X F O R D S C H O O L S . O R G
Board of Education
Colleen Schultz President
Carol Mitchell Vice President
Bill Keenist Secretary
Robert Martin Treasurer
Mary Stein, Ph.D. Trustee
Kim Shumaker Trustee
Jim Reis Trustee
Administration
William C. Skilling, Ph.D. Superintendent
Nancy Latowski Deputy Superintendent
James Schwarz, Ph.D. Assistant Superintendent
of Curriculum
Timothy Loock Assistant Superintendent of
Business and Operations
Denise Sweat Associate Superintendent
of Student Services
District Emergency Line ...............248.969.5070
Administrative Services ...............248.969.5000
Athletics .......................................248.969.5110
Child Care Center .........................248.969.5035
Clear Lake Elementary .................248.969.5200
Crossroads for Youth ...................248.969.1885
Food Services...............................248.969.5167
Daniel Axford Elementary ............248.969.5050
Lakeville Elementary ....................248.969.1850
Leonard Elementary ....................248.969.5300
Maintenance & Operations .........248.969.5056
Oxford Bridges Alternative HS .....248.969.1885
Oxford Elementary ......................248.969.5075
Oxford High School ......................248.969.5100
Oxford Middle School ..................248.969.1800
Oxford Virtual Academy ..............248.969.5021
Fine Arts Center ...........................248.969.5143
Technology ..................................248.969.5114
Special Education ........................248.969.1837
Central Enrollment ......................248.969.5019
Transportation .............................248.969.1888
10 N. Washington, Oxford, MI 48371 | Phone 248. 969.5000 | Fax 248. 969.5013
The Wildcat Review is a publication of the
Oxford Community Schools.
nOn-PrOfit OrG.
u.S. POStAGE
PAid
PErmit nO. 38
OxfOrd, mi
ECRWSS
DATED MATERIAL - PLEASE PROCESS
POSTAL PATRON
RESIDENTIAL AND BUSINESS
OXFORD COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Editor, Linda Lewis
linda.lewis@oxfordschools.org
SAVE thESE dAtES
ENROLL NOW fOR THE 2012-13 SCHOOL YEAR
Contact Central Enrollment: (248) 969-5019