“Our technological powers increase, but the side effects and potential hazards also escalate.” Alvin Toffler
Research studies have shown a correlation between high usage of computers/smartphones in youth with an increase in anxiety, depression, and a thinning of the cerebral cortex of the brain (which is associated with attention span).
Due to a desire to increase focusing, and social interaction skills, this fall all students and staff at Waterloo School District will be undergoing a 'Digital Diet.' Superintendent, Frank Gant, shared, “Based on collective conversations with staff, Google Chrome books will continue to be used, but teachers will be encouraged to use more pen/pencil activities and classroom discussions. The High School English teachers are excited about having students going back to writing rough drafts in long hand.”
Yes, online learning is more cost-effective, but at what cost to our student’s mental health? Isn’t the additional expense of ordering textbooks, and materials worth it to enhance the wellbeing of our youth? What Frank Gant expects to see from this digital diet is greater empathy, more connectiveness between students and staff, a joy of learning, and an increase in school attendance.
Please consider supporting St. Joseph school by attending the ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL FESTIVAL- July 10-12, 2643 Waterloo Rd.
Friday, July 10
- Johnny Cake Hollow will be performing starting at 7 p.m. followed by fireworks.
Saturday, July 11
- Impulse Akron-a classic rock band will be performing 7-11 p.m.
- 7 p.m.—will be the adult pedal tractor pull and the donut eating contest
Sunday, July 12
- 2 p.m.-Frog Jumping Contest
- 4 p.m.-Junior Pedal Tractor Pull
- 5-8 p.m. Terry Lee Goffee, a Johnn Cash Tribute band will be performing
- 7 p.m. there will be a 5 K run or 1 K run—you can sign up an hour before the race at the festival.
SUMMER SIP & SHOP July 25, 11a.m.-4 p.m. at 1875 Winery
Have fun shopping for unique handmade gifts while sipping your favorite drinks.
On June 5 Nolan Hamilton ranked first in the nation in the Industrial Motor Control Division of the 2026 Skills USA competition. Over 1900 vocational students from across the nation participated in this five-day event in Atlanta, Georgia.
Nolan has always had an affinity towards tinkering with machines. At age 12 he worked at Dan Rodenbacher’s farm where he learned how to fix tractors. When he was 14, he followed in his dad’s footsteps (Mark Hamilton is Randolph’s Fire Chief) and became a cadet firefighter. He currently is a probationary firefighter and will be taking his fire skill training this winter at Stark State and his EMT training at University Hospital. Up until tenth grade he was planning on becoming a fulltime firefighter. However, one summer while helping his dad check the electric poles at the Fairground he decided to attend Maplewood Career Center. When he first entered the electric lab at Maplewood it sparked his interest to become an electrician. His teacher, Joe Svonavec treated him as a son which made learning fun.
This is not the first time that a Maplewood student has received national recognition. Two prior Maplewood students, Ethan Thompson and Isaac Russell also placed first in the nation in the Industrial Motor Control competition. Nolan attributes his strong work ethic and vocational skills to those who have mentored him, Dan Rodenbucher, his dad Mark Hamilton, Maplewood Teacher Joe Svonavec, his boss Isaac Russell and his co-workers at Scotchman Electric.
Nolan recently graduated from Maplewood Career Center and works at Scotchman Electric in Garrettsville.
“Congratulations in advance for the life you are about to lead— a life so rewarding that only God’s imagination can provide the blueprint.” —Andy Andrews
And remember: “If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then you are an excellent leader.” —Dolly Parton
For news, events and stories you would like to share please contact Sandy Engle at 330 569 4801 or sandyengle83@gmail.com.