April 2024 EMSD Newsletter

• DocTalk Podcast at Glenview
• Kindergarten Round-Up Dates
• EMSD History Part 7: Early Challenges
• Online Registration Opens Soon
• Parent University for April & May
• March BOE Meeting Update
• Common Sense Media Reviews
• Explore the Outdoors
• Bus Drivers Needed for 2024-25
• Breakfast and Lunch Menu

• April/May Calendar of Events

The early years of the city of East Moline and the school district were characterized by rapid expansion, attracting young families, immigrants, and a surge in the number of children. This growth led to challenges in staffing and facilities, resulting in ongoing financial strains. On June 3, 1909, thirteen students became the first graduates of the school system in a ceremony that drew a large audience. By September 1909, there were 320 students enrolled, a 7% increase from the year before. The district operated three schools with ten teachers, and the superintendent's salary was increased to $95 per month.

In 1911, the school population rose by 70% due to annexation and other factors, leading to severe overcrowding and the need for more teachers. By the end of that year, fifteen teachers were working, and improvements were made to accommodate the growing number of students. However, in 1912 the district lost 170 students when St. Mary's Catholic School opened. By fall 1913, there were 614 students in the public schools, including those from the newly annexed McKinley School. The district continued to hire teachers and use unfinished classrooms to cope with the influx of new students. Over the following years, increasing student numbers and curriculum expansion put further pressure on the district's budget.

The school district was faced with various health and safety issues during this time. In 1912, the school board took several steps to improve the infrastructure and health measures in schools. They decided to install electric lights and telephones in all school buildings and purchased first aid supplies. Plumbing was added to John Deere and Lincoln schools, with a request made to the city for water and sewer lines for Garfield School. Sanitary drinking fountains and paper towels were introduced, replacing old communal cups and towels. During a smallpox outbreak in 1912, Garfield School students and staff were required to be vaccinated. Lincoln School was temporarily closed for fumigation due to smallpox. In 1916, there were cases of infantile paralysis (polio). The Spanish influenza pandemic of 1918 forced extended school closures. To make up for lost time, beginning in January 1919, schools held sessions on Saturday mornings, canceled spring vacation and the annual field day, and focused on teaching only the essential subjects.

Truancy was also a significant issue in the early 1900s, with students, particularly boys, and their parents often prioritizing work over education. In response, Illinois passed a compulsory education law in 1903 mandating school attendance for children aged seven to fourteen. The effectiveness the law was tested in a 1907 court case in East Moline, where a man was fined for not sending his adopted son to school.

On Saturday, June 3, 1911, this class of twelve eighth-grade students celebrated their graduation. Their class motto, "Tonight we launch, where shall we anchor?" symbolized the beginning of their journey into the future. The class chose purple and gold as their colors, and the American Beauty Rose served as their class flower.

Click the image below to access the Parent University calendar with embedded links to attend each session. Happy learning!

Solar Proposal for Ridgewood Elementary

Last month, the Board of Education heard about a potential solar option for our new roof at Ridgewood Elementary. This month, they heard about another potential option to add solar called a Power Purchase Agreement. This is a program where district would work with an outside company who would purchase and actually "own" the solar panels. The outside company would get the benefit of all the rebates and much of the monthly savings. The benefit to the district under this type of agreement is that no district funds would not be used for the project. The savings are smaller than a traditional purchase of solar panels but the district would realize some energy savings. The Board will continue to study these options before potentially going out for bids in the future from companies who do this work.

Proposed Board of Education Meeting Dates for 2024-25 School Year

A tentative calendar of dates were shared with the Board of Education on holding meetings for the next school year. Added, it is being proposed that meetings move to 6 pm rather than 6:30 pm like they are now. The Board of Education is excited about some of the changes happening in our schools so we plan to hold six of our meetings next year in the school libraries. Our libraries will all get a refresh of new furniture, carpet and paint this summer so it will be an excellent opportunity to share that work with the community. Also, each of our schools will present those months when the meetings are held in the individual schools. We want to share the great work going on in and out of our classrooms at each school!

Common Sense Media puts together reviews of movies, tv shows, books, games, podcasts, apps, and more based on student ages. If you're ever not sure if something is suitable for your student(s), check out their site by clicking the image below.

Embrace the Quad Cities outdoor adventures by disconnecting from tech and enjoying nature's fresh air. Jog along the Mississippi, hike through enchanting forests, or bike over 100 miles of riverfront trails for stunning views. Mountain bikers can enjoy 40 miles of trails with exciting features in local parks. Water enthusiasts have rivers and lakes for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Elevate your outdoor fun with golf, disc golf, or pickleball on premium courses. Discover the area's greenery in gardens, parks, and marshlands. Click on the picture for more ideas right here in the Quad Cities!

✔️ Paid Training

✔️ Part time - $17.50/hour

✔️ Holidays and Summers Off

✔️ $1500 Hiring Bonus

Contact Natalie or Ray to learn more at 309-752-2572

Use the QR code below with your phone's camera or visit this link to access the menus for both elementary and middle school. You can also download the Nutrislice app onto your phone.

April 9 - Early Dismissal (Staff Inservice in the afternoon)

April 10 - No School

April 17 - Online Registration Opens for 2024-25 School Year

May 1 - Kindergarten Round-Up (Hillcrest)

May 2 - Kindergarten Round-Up (Bowlesburg and Ridgewood)

May 7 - Kindergarten Round-Up (Wells)

May 10 - Early Dismissal (Staff Inservice in the afternoon)

May 23 - 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony at UTHS

May 27 - No School (Memorial Day)

May 29 - Last Day of School