The Panther Post

Winter has arrived-making an early entrance with that November snowfall! Even with the challenging weather, our schools are buzzing with energy, creativity and growth as we celebrate a strong first semester. From vibrant art displays and engaging projects to outstanding music performances and special events, this season truly showcases the innovative spirit and talents of our students. We take great pride in each of them, and these moments reflect our ongoing commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience at MT.

As we look ahead to the new year, we are sincerely grateful for the strength, support, and unity of Panther Nation. Your partnership plays a vital role in our successes and we are excited for the opportunities that await in 2026.

To provide a quality education, with opportunities and relationships, that cultivates success.

We would like to extend our gratitude to departing board members Mr. Dave Miller and Mr. Rob Dawson. Together, they have a combined 35 years of service to MT.

They have achieved numerous successes through their service as community leaders and have witnessed the district grow and evolve into a top-notch central campus from every perspective. We wish them well in their future endeavors.

Beginning January 1, 2026, we welcome new board members Mr. Steve Armstrong and Mr. Shawn Grooms. These community members are joining present board members (Mrs. Jacklyn Farrens, Mr. Bryan McCoy and Mrs. Lindsey Worley) to continue advancing the vision and mission of Miami Trace Local Schools.

Quality Assurance NCO / 1SG | Ohio Army National Guard

I am retiring and in a transition phase for my next career. My role at the end of my military career is to evaluate and ensure quality assurance over the OH Regional Training Institute. This accredited educational organization delivers leadership training for new Sergeants and Officers in the Army National Guard, along with specialty skill training for truck operators and combat engineers.

The world is an amazing place; there is more good than bad. I enjoyed the opportunity to serve in many places and learn about different cultures. My life experiences were great, and I am proud to have shared some of those experiences with my family.

My family is always my proudest achievement. In addition to them, I am proud to have continued my journey learning new things and receiving higher education. I believe education to be a root of my successes.

There are many great things I can remember, such as not making honor roll or being the best-behaved student. However, I remember enjoying time with my friends, attending school events, and meeting my wife — and we’ve been together ever since.

Take on a new challenge! Get outside your comfort zones and experience something new. Failures are a good foundation to learning. If you succeed at a new challenge the first time, great, and if you fail, even better. Learn from that and do it again.

Ensuring the safety of our schools is a collaborative effort that involves the entire community. The established protocols play a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being and security of students, teachers, and staff. As we embark on a new semester, we wish to review some of the safety measures that are currently in place across the district.

School Safety Guide

We invite you to review the School Safety Guide found on our website. This informational guide outlines some of the various proactive steps implemented by the district to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment for all. Additionally, it provides brief but important insight regarding the district's Emergency Response practices and guidance on how families can respond during school emergencies.

Reporting Suspicious Activity, Bullying, or Unsafe Behaviors

Miami Trace utilizes the Safer Ohio School Tip Line (Speak Up), an anonymous reporting system that allows students and adults to anonymously share information with school officials and law enforcement about threats to student safety.

Tips can be submitted via call, text, web form, and mobile app 24 hours a day.

Call or Text:

• 844-SaferOH (844-723-3764)

Internet Browser:

• Webform

Mobile App:

• Google Play
• App Store

Brought to you by Fayette County Public Health

❄️ Tips for Winter Wellness ❄️

• Get extra sleep. Shorter, cooler days mean our bodies need more rest. Try going to bed 30 minutes earlier—lack of sleep makes you more susceptible to illness.
• Get outside and exercise. Bundle up for at least a 15-minute walk. Regular movement boosts energy and supports a healthy mood.
• Stay connected. Plan time with friends or family at least once a week, as winter can increase feelings of isolation.
• Eat protein at each meal. Protein helps keep blood sugar stable. Winter cravings for carbs and sugar can rise, which may weaken the immune system.

🦠 A Common Virus 🦠

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a common childhood virus that causes mouth sores and a rash on the hands and feet. It spreads easily through person-to-person contact, especially in schools.

Symptoms appear 3–6 days after exposure and include fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, and blister-like sores in the mouth with a hand and foot rash.

There is no specific treatment. The illness is most contagious during the first week—often before the rash appears—and the virus can remain in the body for weeks after recovery. Children should stay home if they have a fever, draining blisters, or are too sick to participate.

Prevention includes frequent handwashing and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces.

If you have any health-related questions or concerns, contact your school clinic to speak with any of our nurses.

The winter season is upon us! Be prepared by reviewing our Delay, Closure, and Dismissal Information Sheet. Follow the link to find details regarding our methods of communication, decision-making, building schedules, and more.

https://www.miamitrace.k12.oh.us/

3818 State Route 41 NW

Washington Court House, OH
740-335-3010

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