Mullinville Superintendent of Schools Darrel Kohlman acknowledges that change is difficult, but says that he couldn’t be prouder of his parents, staff, and students as this school year begins, and he points to what he says is his district’s new motto—the 10-90 rule. Taking his cue from a quote by Evangelical Minister Charles Swindoll, the rule states “Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent of how you react.”
By all indications, Superintendent Kohlman, Greensburg Superintendent Darin Headrick, and Junior High Principal Staci Derstein would agree that kids enrolled in the newly formed Kiowa County Junior High are definitely making the best of their 90 percent in the first two weeks of classes. Add to that the fact that Haviland Junior High athletes have joined in the mix, and the combination spells what all three administrators call increased opportunities for everyone.
With 24 eighth graders, 21 seventh graders, and 21 sixth graders enrolled, and a shared staff from Mullinville and Greensburg, students enjoy small sections for more one-on-one instruction in core subjects such as math and English while participating in large groups for band and vocal.
“Everyone is really trying to do the right thing,” said Headrick referring to finances and more. “We’re making sure everything is fair and equitable.”
Larger numbers of students also make for more fair athletic competition. With larger numbers, according to Headrick, kids play at the appropriate level. Those who need more time to develop skills are not pitted against athletes who might be far bigger or much more advanced.
In fact, Derstein expects to play as many as four different teams in volleyball for which 43 girls are out for practice. “We could have meets starting with a C-team game, followed by the A-team, the B-team, and ending with another C-team.” Schedules will have to be managed around the numbers.
Part of the change Kohlman speaks of includes the change to new school colors and a new mascot. While Derstein reports that the new colors, burnt orange and white, are overall well liked by kids, the mascot has not been chosen.
“We want to do it right,” said Derstein. “We want to involve all the right parties, and the kids will have a lot of input.” For now, students are calling themselves the “TBDs” (To Be Determined) and that seems to be all right.
Doing it right will also pertain to the formation of clubs and organizations to support the curriculum and sports events. Derstein says a Pep Club is one idea being considered; however, she wants to get kids settled into their classes first, then start thinking about the extras.
All in all, students, staff, and administrators appear to be settling into a routine that fits. There are lots of beneficial aspects to a combined junior high. Administrators like the contained atmosphere—all the kids are in one building. Teachers like the nearly one-to-one access to computers and quiet working conditions—quiet as in wind noise rather than kid noise, and kids like their lockers. Fair and equitable—everyone wins.
