December 2025 Out of the Blue

Out of the Blue Tipton Community School Corporation Newsletter December 5, 2025   A Holiday Message from TCSC Superintendent Dr. Ryan Glaze As we enter this season of celebration and reflection, I want to extend my warmest wishes to each of you—our students, families, staff, and community partners. The holidays remind us of the importance of connection, gratitude, and hope, and I am deeply thankful for the spirit of unity that defines Tipton Community School Corporation. This semester has been filled with remarkable achievements, both in and out of the classroom. From academic growth to artistic performances, athletic accomplishments to acts of service, our students continue to inspire us with their creativity, resilience, and determination. Their success is made possible by the unwavering dedication of our teachers, staff, and families, who give their time, energy, and care to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive. I am also grateful for the generosity shown through our food, toy, and clothing drives and holiday volunteer activities by our students and staff. These acts of service brighten the season for many families in our Blue Devil community and set a powerful example for our students—that this time of year is just as much about giving as it is about receiving. The holiday season is also a time to pause and recharge. I encourage each of you to enjoy traditions, create new memories, and spend time with loved ones. May this season bring you joy, peace, and renewal as we prepare to welcome the new year together. On behalf of the Board of Education and our entire leadership team, thank you for your continued support. It is an honor to serve this community, and I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the new year ahead. Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a bright, hopeful New Year. #BlueFuture   TCSC Robotics Builds Skills, Friendships, and Futures   Robotics at Tipton Community School Corporation (TCSC) is sparking curiosity, teamwork, and innovation across all grade levels. From elementary students building their first robots to high schoolers engineering advanced machines, the program is preparing Blue Devils for future success in STEM fields. Robotics has grown from humble beginnings in technology education classes into a district-wide initiative supported by dedicated teachers, community partners, and local businesses. Today, the following educators serve as sponsors for the robotics program in their building: Mike Vittorio (THS), Glen Castor (TMS), and Nate Geiger (TES). The program first started in the middle school’s technology education classes; and progressed to competitions around the state thanks to strong community partnerships. TCSC, Stellantis, Tipton Ford, Encompass, IBEW873, Jim Dandy, and Dairy Queen have provided financial support, while the Tipton County Library introduced Ozobot projects to local schools. A joint venture with Tri-Central Schools and Stellantis created a Lego League team for 4th and 5th graders, giving younger students hands-on experience in robotics for two years which provided competitive challenges with other schools. At THS, robotics began as a classroom project and quickly expanded into a competition team. The first group—freshman girls practicing during advisory—entered a weekend competition, sparking a tradition that continues today. Currently, THS students in the Mechatronics take on roles as documenters, drivers, designers, builders, programmers, and strategists. They spend months preparing for competitions—fundraising, designing, building, testing, and programming their robots. At weekend events, they compete among teams from around the state, learning technical skills, teamwork, sportsmanship, and problem-solving. Elementary robotics was introduced just last year. “Dr. Glaze [TCSC Superintendent] approached me about coaching the program, knowing it might be something I’d enjoy and be passionate about,” said Nate Geiger, TES Robotics program sponsor. “He encouraged me to connect with Mr. Vittorio at the high school to learn what was needed to get things started. From there, Mr. Vittorio provided all the necessary materials and guidance—I just needed to find the students who were interested in joining.” At the elementary level, Geiger emphasizes that robotics is about more than coding and building. “The main goals of our Robotics Club are to inspire curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving in our students,” he said. “I want them to see that robotics is not just about building and coding—it’s about learning how to think critically, collaborate with others, and persevere through challenges.” Picture From elementary to high school, TCSC students are designing, coding, and competing through the district’s robotics program — a hands-on initiative supported by educators and community partners to prepare future innovators. The program has grown from humble beginnings in middle school technology education classes into a district-wide initiative. TMS Robotics Competition Team members (l-r): Wyatt Strickland, Noah McCartney, Reid Hughes, Piper Hughes, and Harper Hancock. Courtesy photo. Robotics Continued..... “Teaching robotics is incredibly rewarding,” noted Glen Castor, TMS Robotics program sponsor. “Middle school students rise to challenge after challenge as they learn to program, design, assemble, and drive their VEX robots. What I enjoy most is giving kids the freedom to create—encouraging them not to follow rigid plans, but to build from imagination, explore ideas, and solve problems with designs that matter to them.” While Tipton teams continue to hone their knowledge and skills to advance to the state competition, they have earned recognition along the way. THS received the Energy Award, and TMS earned the Sportsmanship Award. One unforgettable moment came when the TMS team nearly qualified for state—only to lose power in their controller during the final event while holding second place! For Geiger, the most memorable moment was watching his elementary students transform during their first competition. “They went from feeling nervous at the start to not wanting it to end,” he recalled. “Seeing them grow in confidence, support one another, and truly come together as a team was incredible.” Beyond awards, robotics builds friendships, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose. Students consistently say they enjoy the experience and value working alongside friends.” For advisors like Vittorio, Castor, and Geiger, that growth and joy are the ultimate reward. “Robotics connects directly to classroom learning in STEM and computer science, while also preparing students for Industry 4.0 careers,” added Vittorio. “It’s inspiring to see them grow, enjoy, and learn through robotics, knowing those problem-solving skills will serve them well into adulthood.”    TCSC Spirit Wear (Click Here)   IMPORTANT DATES December 8 TMS/THS Choir Christmas Concert 7PM December 9 Monthly Board of Trustees Meeting 6:30PM December 10 TMS/THS Band Christmas Concert 7PM December 16 YO Family Night Concert 7PM December 19 Last Day of 2nd Grading Period/Semester 1 December 20-January 5- Winter Break TCSC 2025-2026 Calendar Access All TCSC Calendars at: https://www.tcsc.k12.in.us/calendar     Contact information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: 765-675-2147 askthesuperintendent@tcsc.k12.in.us www.tcsc.k12.in.us https://www.facebook.com/tiptonschools https://x.com/@tiptonschools

Friday, Dec 05 2025

November 2025 Out of the Blue

Out of the Blue Tipton Community School Corporation Newsletter November 7, 2025   A Veterans Day Tribute from Dr. Ryan Glaze, Superintendent of Tipton Community School Corporation It is with immense pride and deep gratitude that I extend warm wishes to all as we approach Veterans Day—a day of profound significance in our nation’s history and in our hearts. On this day, we come together as a community to honor and express our sincere appreciation to the brave men and women who have selflessly served in the armed forces. Veterans Day holds special meaning here in Tipton, where many of our families—past and present—have strong military ties. Their contributions and sacrifices are immeasurable, and it is essential that we pause to commemorate their courage and dedication. This day resonates not only on a national level but also within our own district. Many of our employees are veterans who served with valor and distinction. Others are married to veterans, and they understand firsthand the sacrifices made not only by those in uniform but also by the families who supported them through their service. Veterans exemplify the belief that service is woven into the fabric of our community and our country. Let us continue to teach our students about the realities of military service—how veterans answered the call of duty, disrupted their lives, left behind loved ones, endured physical and emotional wounds, witnessed the unimaginable, and, in some cases, made the ultimate sacrifice. Gratitude must be more than words. True gratitude is active, ongoing, and lived out every day—not just once a year. May this Veterans Day be a moment of reflection, unity, and enduring appreciation. Thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice. We are forever in your debt.   Meet Colin Quin Tipton High School’s New Athletic Director When Colin Quin was hired as the new Athletic Director at Tipton Community School Corporation, he brought more than a résumé—he brought a story. A story shaped by small-town grit, a competitive spirit honed in childhood, and a deep belief in the transformative power of high school athletics. Quin, who played football, soccer, baseball, and wrestled in high school, also served as an intern with the Athletic Director. While he enjoyed the experience, he wasn’t sold at first so he interned again his senior year and that’s when Quin, who earned a scholarship to play soccer out of state, had his ‘ah ha’ moment. That early spark ultimately brought Quin full circle back to Indiana where he attended Purdue University to finish his degree. From there he went straight into the world of high school athletics. He began his career as an Assistant Athletic Director at Lafayette Central Catholic, returned to Peru to teach P.E. and Health, earned his master’s from Ball State, and served as Athletic Director at Peru Jr./Sr. High School for four years. Now, he’s entering his ninth year in education and his first at Tipton. So why Tipton? “I’d heard great things from Coach Andy Hobbs, a mentor and former graduate,” recalled Colin Quin, before applying for the job. “Tipton’s a small town, and that’s my forte. I feel at home here.” Quin’s vision for Tipton athletics is clear and ambitious: build competitive programs across all sports, grow student participation, and create unforgettable experiences for athletes. “I want kids to look back and say, ‘That was the best time of my life,’” he said. “High school athletics meant so much to me—I want to give that back.” His definition of success? Improvement. “In the words of David Goggins, ‘You’re either getting better or you’re getting worse,” he explained. “There is no staying the same. I want us to keep improving until we’re hosting a state championship trophy.” Already, Quin has launched a Student Athletic Advisory Committee to elevate student voices. But he’s not rushing change. “I’m observing first—seeing how things are done, what’s working, and where we can grow and improve.” Quin’s leadership style is collaborative. He believes in empowering coaches, supporting athletes, and maintaining open lines of communication with families and engaging community. “I don’t have a perfect answer for what guides me,” he admits. “But I do have a strong moral compass. I want to do right by everyone—coaches, athletes, families.” Quin leads by example, showing up, being present, and doing the right thing. And he sees athletics as a cornerstone of community life. “In small towns, athletics are a big deal. When the community comes into the school, it’s usually for a game. And when teams make deep runs in the tournament, the town shows up.” Continued on the back page   Tipton High School Esports Program: Building Confidence, Connection, and Competitive Spirit In 2017, Tipton High School took a bold step into the future of student engagement. Recognizing the rise of competitive gaming and its growing presence in college programs, teacher John Robertson envisioned a space where students could connect, compete, and thrive—especially those who hadn’t found their place in traditional athletics. With support from the Tipton County Foundation, that vision became reality. A grant helped launch a dual-purpose lab outfitted with cutting-edge VR equipment for educational use and high-performance computers for esports competition. Today, that lab is home to Tipton’s after-school esports program, where students compete in Rocket League each fall and Super Smash Brothers each spring. A potential addition of Street Fighter is on the horizon. But the program is about more than games. Students also develop fast-paced communication skills and leadership experience. Seniors Ace Carpenter and Caiden McNew serve as team coordinators and player-coaches, helping peers plan, strategize, and grow in confidence. This is senior Caiden McNew’s second year participating in the esports program and the second year that Tipton High School has held competitive Rocket League matches. “THS has been practicing esports for a number of years but until the last two years had primarily focused on [Super] Smash Brothers competitions in the spring.” “Mr. Robertson expressed interest in wanting to also hold Rocket League competitions,” recalled McNew. “I was drawn immediately because I had been interested in the game for quite some time. I have family members that play, and It is an extremely interesting and competitive game!” “I was also drawn to the idea of holding team captain positions with Ace someone I've been friends with since middle school,” McNew continued. “I know that Ace was extremely excited for esports to come back, he is extremely competitive and is amazing at leading everyone during matches… almost acting like a conductor to a symphony.” McNew said this program can be extremely beneficial for many different reasons. “I’ve learned communication skills via communication with my teammates during gameplay,” he added.  “Acting as a manager to a team, even if it be a virtual soccer team, gave me the opportunity to learn valuable skills necessary to quality leadership.” “I had actually never played rocket league before when I was initially offered this opportunity,” said Ace Carpenter a senior who has also participated in the program for two seasons over the past two years. “But the day I got the offer I went home and downloaded the game. I then started watching strategy videos, learning about positions, and play styles. I initially accepted because it was the chance to join a social group, step out of my comfort zone, and show leadership skills.” Continued on back page Photo caption(s): Esports education at Tipton High School is a transformative tool that connects students to learning, community, and future careers. Whether they’re competing, coding, or commentating, students in the esports program are building skills that matter. Courtesy photo(s).   A Thanksgiving Message from Dr. Ryan Glaze, TCSC Superintendent As we enter the month of November and approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to take a moment to reflect on the many reasons we have to be grateful as a school community. Our students continue to thrive not only in the classroom, but across the wide range of opportunities our schools provide. From a successful fall athletics season to the launch of winter sports and extra-curricular programs to community involvement and the joyful preparations for our winter concerts, there is so much to celebrate. These achievements are a direct reflection of the time, talent, and heart that each of you contributes every day. Your dedication to our students and your commitment to making Tipton Community School Corporation a place of excellence and belonging inspire me daily. I am deeply thankful that you have chosen to be part of our school family. Thanksgiving invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect—with ourselves, with loved ones, and with the values that ground us. Amid the fast pace of the academic year, this season offers a welcome opportunity to rest, recharge, and create meaningful memories with those who matter most. Whatever your traditions or plans may be, I hope you find time to relax, reflect, and appreciate the many blessings in your life. Wishing you and your loved ones a warm, peaceful, and joyful Thanksgiving.   Colin Quin Continued To build those connections, Quin is introducing himself around town and dreaming of alumni reunions at football and basketball games. “I think I’ve got a few more months before people really know who I am,” he chuckled. “But once that bridge is crossed, I’d love to see class reunions show up and cheer.” If you ask Quin about traditions, he’s still learning—but eager to honor what’s in place and start new ones. “I’ll lean on my coaches and students for that. I’m here to listen, contribute, and build.” His journey hasn’t followed a straight line. In fact, one of the most surprising chapters? Thirteen years in the circus! “It always gets people talking,” he says with a grin. His competitive edge? Instilled early by his father. “From a very early age my dad instilled that competitive nature in all of us [my siblings and I] and that really drove me to be the athlete I was,” Quin recalls. “My dad was tough on us—even in board games. He taught us to compete, and that shaped who I became.” When asked about his proudest achievement, Quin doesn’t point to a trophy or title. “It’s still five years away,” he says. “If you’re satisfied, you stop growing. I want to keep chasing excellence.” He currently lives in Peru, Indiana, and jokes that if anyone has the perfect home for sale in Tipton, he’s interested. He’s single, close to his siblings and nephews, and loves traveling to see extended family. If he had to describe Tipton athletics in one word? “Family,” he says. “I’m not even through my first season, and I’ve already felt so welcomed. The support has been amazing.” With heart, hustle, and a vision rooted in community, Quin is quickly proving he has what it takes to lead Tipton athletics into its next chapter. He is forging a path that uplifts and challenges student athletes and building a legacy of growth, unity and success.   Esports Continued Carpenter said he learned a lot about communication and collaboration including how to help people with different play styles work together. “I had to figure out how to communicate with multiple players and create schedules centered around feedback,” Carpenter pointed out. “And I learned that leadership comes with a lot of frustration, but also a lot of reward.” Tipton was a founding member of Indiana’s statewide esports league, with Robertson serving as its original commissioner. Today, the program competes in a regional league with schools like Kokomo and Marion, allowing for stronger relationships and in-person events. In addition to league play, Tipton hosts “in-house” competitions open to all students, fostering inclusivity and fun. “The future of esports here will likely depend on the future of academic esports as a whole,” explained John Robertson, who is credited with bringing the program to life and keeping it relevant and competitive for close to a decade. When Robertson was interviewed by a local news outlet and was asked about the future of esports in 2020, he said that esports could go one of two directions: extremely popular, or super small niche activity, and it will depend on the leadership of some of the bigger organizations involved. “I think it's headed in a direction similar to academic robotics competitions, where there is definite value and our kids gain from it, but it won't ever get as big as traditional sports,” he pointed out. The high school also offers a Video Game Literature elective which is a semester-long course that Robertson has taught in the past. The course explores game design, storytelling, strategy, and digital literacy through hands-on play and creation. “I would absolutely recommend this program to others,” Carpenter said. “It's fun, social, and can help participants learn teamwork and sportsmanship. It can also help foster friendships and help people break out of their shell.” McNew agreed. “Many people believe that only a certain type of people can play video games or participate in esports,” he added, “but there are many different personalities and characteristics among the people that practice!” “I had a blast coaching/managing this year's and last year's rocket league team,” added Carpenter. “But the seasons are short, and I wish we had more practice time. There was so much more I wanted to work on with the players. And I am sad it is over. But I am hopeful that I might be able to continue having a position like this in college. My sights are currently set on IUK, but I am open to any opportunities.” Tipton’s esports program is more than a game. It’s a launchpad for leadership, learning, and rooted in student growth.   TCSC Spirit Wear (Click Here)   IMPORTANT DATES November 11 Veteran's Day November 26-28 Thanksgiving Break December 8 TMS/THS Choir Christmas Concert 7PM December 9 Monthly Board of Trustees Meeting 6:30PM December 10 TMS/THS Band Christmas Concert 7PM December 16 YO Family Night Concert 7PM December 19 Last Day of 2nd Grading Period/Semester 1 December 20-January 4- Winter Break TCSC 2025-2026 Calendar Access All TCSC Calendars at: https://www.tcsc.k12.in.us/calendar     Contact information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: 765-675-2147 askthesuperintendent@tcsc.k12.in.us www.tcsc.k12.in.us https://www.facebook.com/tiptonschools https://x.com/@tiptonschools

Friday, Nov 07 2025

October 2025 Out of the Blue

Out of the Blue Tipton Community School Corporation Newsletter October 3, 2025 TCSC Fall Community Survey Coming Soon Tipton Community School Corporation is continuing our Community Survey this fall to ensure every voice is heard. Families, staff, and students in grades 4–12 will be asked to share their feedback between October 10–26, 2025. Your input helps us celebrate what’s working and identify where we can grow, guiding decisions that shape the future of our schools. Participation is anonymous and optional, but every response makes a difference. If you would prefer that your student not participate, please complete the opt-out form by Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 8:00 AM (click the button below). Look for more information coming soon! Student Survey Opt-Out Form   Celebrating World Teachers’ Day – October 5 This Sunday, we join communities around the world in celebrating World Teachers’ Day. It’s a time to take a moment to honor the educators who shape lives, ignite curiosity, and guide students along their educational journey. At Tipton Community School Corporation, we are fortunate to have teachers who bring passion, purpose, and heart to their work every single day. Their commitment to building supportive, engaging, and student-centered classrooms is the foundation of our success.   To all our educators: thank you for your tireless efforts, your belief in every learner, and the countless ways you make a difference. You are the reason our schools feel like home. Please take a moment to thank a teacher who’s made an impact whether through a kind word, a note of appreciation, or a simple gesture of gratitude. It matters more than you know.   Leadership in Action: Thank You, TCSC Principals! October marks a special time to celebrate a remarkable group of leaders—our principals and assistant principals. These individuals play a pivotal role in shaping the culture of our schools, guiding student success, and supporting staff with vision and heart at Tipton Community School Corporation. We are proud to recognize the leadership of Brian Johnson and Sara Wiggington (TES), John Ayars and Dr. Clifton Hackman (TMS), and Craig Leach and Tom Lyday (THS). These individuals are more than administrators - they are culture-builders, advocates, and daily champions for students and staff. Across all buildings, these leaders share a deep belief in the power of connection, community, and student-centered work. They are present. They are passionate. And they are proud to serve in a district where values align and relationships matter. We are grateful for the steady leadership and quiet strength of our principals. Thank you for making Tipton a place where students and staff thrive. This month, we invite our families and staff to join us in celebrating these exceptional leaders. A note of thanks, a kind word, or a moment of recognition goes a long way in honoring the people who make our schools strong. TES Administration At Tipton Elementary, Principal Brian Johnson leads with presence and purpose, believing that being fully engaged with students, staff, and families is the most powerful way to serve. Assistant Principal Sara Wiggington brings compassion and insight into behavior support, recognizing that every action is a form of communication and every child deserves to be understood. TMS Admin At Tipton Middle School, Principal John Ayars focuses on empowering teachers to provide the best for students. Assistant Principal Dr. Clifton Hackman fosters collaboration and inclusion, creating a school climate where relationships and shared purpose drive success. THS Administration At Tipton High School, Principal Craig Leach continues to guide the building with a steady hand and a commitment to excellence. Assistant Principal Tom Lyday leads with visibility and heart, showing up in hallways, classrooms, and events as a trusted advocate for students and staff.    TCSC School Board President Honored with ISBA Gold Seal Leadership Certification Robert Cochrane II, president of the Tipton Community School Corporation Board of Trustees, has been recognized by the Indiana School Boards Association (ISBA) as one of just 25 school board presidents statewide to earn the 2025 Board Presidents’ Gold Seal Leadership Certification—ISBA’s highest leadership credential. This prestigious certification reflects a deep commitment to excellence in governance, student-focused leadership, and continuous professional growth. The Gold Seal program is designed to strengthen the leadership skills of board presidents through a rigorous series of development experiences focused on: Effective Board Meetings: Facilitating meetings that are efficient, transparent, and inclusive of public and community voices Strategic Planning: Crafting long-term plans that drive student achievement and align with district priorities Superintendent Evaluation: Leading fair, growth-oriented evaluations that promote accountability and continuous improvement Roles and Relationships: Fostering strong, collaborative partnerships to ensure district success To earn the Gold Seal, participants completed multiple high-impact learning experiences over the past nine months, including: ISBA Board Presidents’ Leadership Seminar Regional Board Presidents’ Roundtable Forums Professional Development Conferences and Seminars Presidents’ Breakfast at the Annual Fall Conference “When I first joined the school board, I’ll admit I knew very little about how schools truly operated,” recalled Robert Cochrane, II. “I came in thinking it would be similar to running a business—but boy, was I wrong. Education and municipal financing are far more complex and unique than anything in my business background. The ISBA programs have been invaluable in helping me quickly gain the knowledge and perspective needed to serve effectively. They’ve equipped me to be the best board member I can be for Tipton Community Schools.” “I commend this impressive group of presidents for their perseverance and commitment to professional growth and effective governance,” said ISBA Executive Director Terry Spradlin. “Gold Seal Certification equips them to lead with greater impact and elevate student achievement across their districts.” “Mr. Cochrane’s recognition by ISBA is a reflection of his steady leadership and deep commitment to our students, staff, and community,” said TCSC Superintendent, Dr. Ryan Glaze. “His pursuit of the Gold Seal Certification demonstrates the kind of forward-thinking governance that strengthens our district and ensures Tipton continues to grow with purpose and integrity.” These certified board presidents now join a statewide network of visionary leaders dedicated to driving positive change in their communities. “I applaud the board members who embraced the challenge of the Gold Seal program,” added ISBA Director of Board Services Steve Horton. “Their completion of this certification demonstrates dedicated leadership to schools."   October Is National Bullying Prevention Month Each October, schools across the country observe National Bullying Prevention Month. It is a time to raise awareness, promote kindness, and reinforce the importance of safe, inclusive environments for all. The campaign highlights the impact of bullying whether physical, verbal, social, or online and encourages individuals and communities to take a stand against it. At Tipton Community School Corporation, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and support. Our staff models this commitment daily, creating welcoming spaces where students feel safe, valued, and empowered to learn. As parents and guardians, your partnership in this effort makes our school community truly special. This month is an ideal time to ensure students have the tools they need if they encounter bullying. Since the start of the school year, all buildings have been reviewing school-wide expectations. By now, students should understand what it means to be respectful—what it looks like, how it feels, and how to recognize when behavior crosses the line. According to the Center on Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, students should be able to identify disrespectful or inappropriate behavior and know how to seek help. We continue to reinforce these steps in our schools, and we encourage families to do the same at home. If you have concerns or questions about how to support your child in a bullying situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s building administrator or counselor. We’re here to help and together we can ensure every student feels safe, seen, and supported.   TCSC Spirit Wear (Click Here)   IMPORTANT DATES 10/8/25-Parent/Teacher Conferences 10/14/25-Monthly Board Meeting 10/20/25-10/24/25 Fall Break-No School 11/11/25-Monthly Board Meeting TCSC 2025-2026 Calendar Access All TCSC Calendars at: https://www.tcsc.k12.in.us/calendar     Contact information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: 765-675-2147 askthesuperintendent@tcsc.k12.in.us www.tcsc.k12.in.us https://www.facebook.com/tiptonschools https://x.com/@tiptonschools

Friday, Oct 03 2025