Accomplishments
MISSION: The purpose of the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation is to raise, steward and distribute resources to enrich the education of students in the St. Joseph Public Schools District. VISION: Increase opportunities for students in curricula, facilities and various learning options by securing resources from diverse sources of funding through broad community involvement.
In April 2013, the St. Joseph Public Schools will celebrated 175 years of educating children. That is quite an accomplishment! We are proud that the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation has been a vital part of this history. The Foundation had an exciting and productive year in 2012. Income from all sources exceeded $200,000. We are especially excited about our new category called the Superintendent’s Circle. 2013 has started off with great promise and we are looking forward to another great year, because of the wonderful dedication and passion of our Board, donors and the community.
Funding for public education has been tremendously unstable the last several years and has caused school districts all across the state to make reductions in programming, reductions in opportunities for students and delayed important curriculum purchases.
Ann Cardon, Superintendent
The Saint Joseph Public Schools Foundation – self-named – the academic booster club – is envied by other districts. Through the fundraising efforts by the Foundation, they have helped us keep our programming intact and allowed us to fund new initiatives that our general fund would not be able to support. Knowing that the Foundation is there to support us in these times of decreasing revenue and increasing expenditures is a comfort and is much appreciated by the Board of Education, administration, staff, students and parents. s2
The work of the Foundation is accomplished by 21 dedicated Board Members, as well as the Foundation Coordinator and by numerous committees including parents, students and volunteers.
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Welcome Superintendent Circle Members The Foundation is proud to announce the inaugural members of its newly formed Superintendent’s Circle. These donors have committed $1,000 or more annually to the Foundation. Mr. & Mrs. Sam Abdelnour
Insurance Management
Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Belski
Joan & Bob Judd
Dennis & Lynn Bowen
Lakeland Hospital
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Bowes
Philip & Becky Laney
Mr. & Mrs. Donald Boerma
Bill & Jane Marohn
Barry & Jody Conybeare
Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Peirce
Double Day Office Supplies
Professional Hearing Services
Edgewater Resources
Marcie Schalon
Mr. & Mrs. Ed Eisele
Susan K. Schalon
Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Fettig
United Federal Credit Union
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Fowler
Steve & Elizabeth Upton
Ed Todd & Debra Glover
Dr. Ray & Kathy Urrea
Bob & Anne Gottlieb
Whirlpool Corporation
Honor Credit Union
Mr. Tom Yeager
Dan & Lupe Hopp Members of this group are entitled to the following privileges: A Golden Pass which provides admission for two people to all school events including sports (playoff games not included) and concerts; recognition on our Foundation wall, website and newsletters; quarterly updates from the Superintendent; annual spring luncheon with the Superintendent; first to be involved in other special events.
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ST. JOSEPH PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION FUNDING PROCESS The SJPS Foundation is organized with three committees: • • •
- Ann Cardon, SJPS Superintendent
Projects Fund Development Public Relations
There are seven Foundation board members on each committee plus additional community members. The Project Committee works with the School Board, administrators, teachers, parents, students and community members to identify and prioritize projects needed by the district for the Foundation to fund. Once a project has been approved by the Foundation Board, it becomes the responsibility of the Fund Development Committee. The Foundation itself has three major fundraisers each year. The first occurs in May and is called the No Show Ball. Invitations are sent to prospective donors to attend the ball; however, it does not require actually attending. It is a request to just send a check to the Foundation. Each year we receive around $15,000 from this event. The second event the Foundation sponsors occurs in early November. It is an American Girl Fashion Show®. The Foundation pays $6,000 to American GirlTM to use the name. American Girl, in turn, provides the dolls and the clothing for the models to wear in the show. It costs the Foundation approximately $25,000 to produce the show. For each of the three years that the
No Show Ball Super Circle 7% Year End 15% Whirlpool
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“With State cutbacks the need for the Foundation is greater than ever.”
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$25,000
Other (Bricks) 15%
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show has been presented, between $25,000 to $30,000 has been raised. The last formal event sponsored by the Foundation is the Year-End Appeal. Approximately 4,000 letters are sent to prospective donors requesting a year-end donation to the Foundation. This event generates about $30,000. In addition to the above-mentioned events, there are several other sources of funding. The Whirlpool Logistics Golf Outing has provided approximately $50,000 to the Foundation each year for the past five years. This constitutes nearly 25% of total revenue to the Foundation. Another source of funding is grant requests to other Foundations for major projects. They have included the F.S. Upton Foundation, Fairmount Minerals Foundation, St. Joseph/Benton Harbor Rotary Foundation and the Schalon Foundation. The St. Joseph Improvement Association gave a small grant several years ago. The Paul and Rose Suchovsky Trust funds six $5,000 scholarships through the Foundation annually. Personal direct contact has been made to some donors on major projects. Administrators and teachers are given the opportunity to contribute to the Foundation through payroll deduction. A planned giving process has been established; however, at this time, no income has been received through this source. Annual income from all sources in the past several years approximates $200,000. With cutbacks in state funding of education, there are always more projects on the Foundation wish list than there are resources to fund. However, the resources the Foundation receives through its donors are making a difference for the St. Joseph Public Schools and are greatly appreciated.
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Paul W. & Rose Suchovsky Scholarship
Over $250,000 Have Funded Teacher Grants & Special Request Grants Since 2005 Since 2005, The St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation has been able to provide grants to teachers for activities and programs that are not funded by the general fund of the school district. These are specific grants for teachers to use in their classrooms. These are awarded once a year at the annual opening day breakfast. Approximately $25,000 in grants is awarded each year, affecting every student in the District. Over the past years grants have included:
Established in 2012 by son Mr. Edward Todd in his wishes to honor his mother and stepfather. This scholarship assists St. Joseph High School graduating seniors who wish to pursue a college degree in a business related field. Six scholarships in the amount of $5,000 each were awarded this first year. Every year thereafter, five awards will be made and a sixth will go to the prior year’s recipient who has the highest earned GPA in college.
2012 Winners Amanda Nowak (University of Michigan)
Amy Erickson
(University of Michigan)
Kevin Wu (Stanford University)
Kevin Shellito
(University of Penn)
Nicholas Whise (Aquinas College)
Michael Huynh
(University of Michigan)
2012 Recipients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Amy Dirlam - Web 2.0 Tools/Subscription Barbara Clark - 3 iPads Colette Jasiak - Quiz Shows for Elementary Social Work Curriculum Gail Wadel - Formative Assessment Tools for Mathematics Jennifer Francis - BrainPOP subscription John Truesdell - Jeopardy Review Game Expansion Joshua Warsow - CO2 Race Track Judy Schnebly - Music Ace Maestro computer software Kathy Buursma - Project Based Learning through iEarn Kent Johnson - AVA and Online Learning Lab Improvements Lauri Berry - Molecular Gastronomy Leah Alsbro - MACUL-Gurus of Technology Matt Culver/Joe Fralick - A Student trip to Art Prize in Grand Rapids, MI Natalie Rank - School/Home Lending Library from Hatch Nita Nicholie - Polygraph for Forensic Science Ryan White - Tools for Student Engagement, Response and Input Sarah Moore - College Readiness/ ACT preparation Susan Hunnell - Nutrition Curriculum Updating and Enhancement
2011 Recipients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Betty Mundy - World Book Online Encyclopedia for K-12 Vivian Schillio - Articulation Materials for therapy and home use Colette Jasiak - Lesson Booster DVDs for Elem. Social Work curriculum Julie Sifrig - iPod Listening Stations Natalie Rank - Everyday Math for Pre-K Christine Borah - Classroom Dictionaries Tessa Sheldon - Speaking Franklin Spellers Lara Crawford - Michigan Studies Weekly Lisa Knuth - Michigan Studies Weekly Elizabeth Zelenock - Wireless Listening Centers for First Grade Karmen Brower - Advanced Scientific Calculators for 6th Grade Jackie Yearous - Sony DSC H50 Cameras for Yearbook Class Amy MacKellar - 24 Microscopes for 7th & 8th Grade Science Classes Joe Fralick - Art Slab Roller Pat Hoffman - AP Macroeconomics Test Bank Burke Lokey - Smart Music Software Pilot Program Nancy Fette - ProQuest eLibrary Database Renewal Alaina Brady - Classroom Graphing Calculators Gary Etter - Classroom Jeopardy 2011 Team Edition Rachel Cabanilla-Sinnett - Audio/Video Recording Device for K-12 Clemen Sheppard - Flip Cams for World Language Projects
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2010 Recipients: • • • • • • • • •
Vivian Schillio - No Glamour Series Betty Mundy - Online Databases for K-12 Marci Wiesemes - Math Extensions Kimberly Fellows - Young Fives Literacy/ Math Grant Request Amber Lange - Language Arts Materials for all Kindergarten Students Jane Klein - National Geographic Explorer Magazine Colette Jasiak - Character Education for 3rd-5th grade Julie Sifrig - National Geographic Leveled Readers Natalie Rank - iPod for the Early Childhood Classroom
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Darci Waite - Biography sets Barbara Durflinger - RTI Book Packs Linda McConville - Going Bloggie! Barbara Klein - Soar to Success Student Library Level 4 Carla Morrow - Request for FUN DECKS communication skill cards Karra Hafer - REWARDS- Multisyllabic Word Reading Strategies Cindy Richey - Tuesdays with Morrie Gary Etter - New York Times UPFRONT Magazine Matt Culver - Tabletop Display for Art Critique and Student Showcase Lauri Berry - Culinary Arts Class Lara Crawford - Leap Frog Tag Reading System and Books Heather Bartz - Literacy Centers Diane Herrman - RTI Differentiated Reading, 1-3 Informational Text Tracy Wagner - Operation: Breaking the Boy Code Beth Fairchild - Materials for skill-building groups Kathie Adams - Kitchen Lab Utensil Replacement Joe Fralick - H20-Oil Painting Project Jason Catania - Classroom Jeopardy Joan Vander Meulen - Heart Rate Monitors Kelly KIetzerow - 8th Grade Labs: Earthquake Proof Houses and Electromagnetic Fishing Poles Karmen Brower - 6th grade pilot program for Everyday Mathematics program Tracy Olson - Catch Up Math Summer Program
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2009 Recipients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Art room digital cameras Education City.com The iPod Learning Center Character Education for 1st grade Nano's for Kindergarten The Bear Necessities Connected Math Program 2 Battle of the Books Supplements Read Naturally iPod Learning Lab Underwater Robotics/Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) Camera for Visual Art Digital Portfolios Lincoln Center or National Symphony Orchestra Clinic Roman Legion XXIV Comes to SJHS Kindergarten Math Materials Eggspert turns lessons into "Egg-citing" Games Everyday Math Teacher Tools
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Teacher Grants Continued… 2008 Recipients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
“Fun Decks” Materials for the “Circle of Friends” program New cubbies/mailboxes for both Kindergarten and Young Fives classrooms Fiction and non-fiction trade books for grades one and two Social studies magnet boards for autistic students “Singapore Math” materials to help those students struggling in math 6+1 Traits of Writing and Writing Strategies That Work! Literature Circles/Guided Reading materials (fourth grade) Boardmaker Program A set of student dry-erase boards and markers for foundation level math Science class materials Writing Mentorship Program New life jackets for the 3rd grade swimming and water safety program Kindergarten literacy materials MEAP Jumpstart Test Prep materials for Math and Language Arts Sponsor an recognized author/illustrator to present at elementaries DVDs, World Music Resources and percussion instruments for orchestra Two digital cameras for classroom use and two video iPods Field trip for all fourth graders in the district to the Heritage Museum “Stress Out” kits for work with “at risk” students “Read Naturally” Masters Edition Fluency Program sequenced series Mat board cutter and mat board The purchase of 20 copies of “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens” Picture books to engage students
2007 Recipients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Brenda Searfoss - Subscription of "Time for Kids" for all the 4th & 5th grade Karmen Brower - Leveled Fiction/Non-Fiction Differentiated Reading books Linda McConville - Field Trip to Heritage Museum and Cultural Center to view "Preserve the Fruit Belt" exhibit Kindergarten Teachers - materials to enhance the rotating dramatic play Lara Crawford - Alphabet and activity carpet for Young 5's and Kindergarten Jenna McAllister - Reading material for Title 1 students Katie Mandarino - Developmentally appropriate reading material Marci Wiesemes - Material for Parent Math Nights Carla McPherson - books for 2nd graders Joan Wire - Binder Park Zoo assembly Laine Watts - Document Camera to feature students' writing Beth Schueneman - Junior Geographer Atlas Program Sue Betz - Motivation Enhancement CD for speech/language Natalie Rank - Storytelling kit for ECDD students Joe Rommel - Digital Voice Recorders for "student created" podcasts Dana Walsworth - Field Trip to Medieval Times for 7th grade Amy Dirlam - Assistance for Visiting Author Marilyn Doory - Subscription of "Time for Kids" for all 6th grade students Cindy Miller/Mark Matzke - Riparian Kit for 6th grade students Matt Culver - Track lighting in Art Classroom Gail Wadel - Graphing calculators for Algebra 2 students
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2006 Recipients: • • • • • • • • • • •
Sue Betz - BIGmack Communicators to help at-risk pre-schooler Vivian Schillio - Boardmaker used by Autistic Spectrum Disorder students Jenna McAllister - Summer Reading Camp program for all 2nd grade students in Title I Darci Waite - Readers for Writers program Linda McConville - Preserve the Fruit Belt to benefit all 4th grade students Amber Lange/Nicole Havenaar - Big Books Literary Centers program for Kindergarteners Joan Wire - Classy Animals outreach program from Binder Park Zoo for 1st Graders Joan Vandermeulen - Pedometers to be used by students at Upton MS Chad Mandarino - Distance Learning program featuring diversity, citizenship, respect, and a chance to speak with a Holocaust survivor Penelope Campbell - Publication classes to 8th graders Meredith Dodson - Resources to help the AP English students including the book “How to Read Literature Like a Professor.”
2005 Recipients: • •
• • •
Nancy Fette, - field trip to the Andrews University Research Library. Michelle Vukorpa - grant for her Pink Purse program developed to address the issues young women and men encounter during puberty. The goal is to improve self-esteem and confidence. Jenna McAllister - Windows on Literacy information reading program. Joe Rommel - 5th grade students to Sarett Nature Center and Grand Mere State Park for river ecology and dunes preservation lessons. The Art and Social Studies Departments at the High School - LCD projector to allow for more precise and clearer visual presentations of works being studied.
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Special Request Grants Special Funding requests are grants for those group leaders (non-teachers) and school projects that typically don’t happen in the classroom under the direction of one teacher. They may be for after school groups, special interest projects or district wide initiatives. 2012 •
Accelerated opportunities ($10,000), an investment in the future of accelerated courses at St. Joseph High School. These courses will allow St. Joseph Public Schools to offer students on-line courses in a variety of subjects, which will increase their opportunity to take other classes including participating in band and our nationally-ranked orchestra program. Students from other districts could also participate for up to half of their regular school day.
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Fine Arts and World Language Technology exploration ($1,000) will provide the resources for teachers to visit other programs that integrate technology and new teaching techniques into their classes.
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SJHS First Robotics Team ($3,000) competition fees and support materials. (Also received $3,000 in 2011 and in 2010)
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Homeless Help ($2,000) to have money available for students who might need school supplies, clothing or help with transportation to and from school when a regular school route is not available.
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Video Production “Hardware Kit” ($1,100) for consequences of bullying. The St. Joseph Public Schools District takes bullying very seriously and is developing a program to help students develop a sensitivity and knowledge on the subject.
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8 grade Industrial and Applied Technology ($5,500). This grant will allow for the development of two new classes to be offered at Upton Middle School starting next fall. Industrial Design and Manufacturing, and Applied Technology and Engineering will allow students to explore engineering and robotics principles as well as put them to the test.
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International Society of Technology in Education Conference ($6,000). The District will be sending three representatives to this conference this summer in an effort to examine best practices in the area of technology and one-to-one computing.
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MHSAA Broadcasting Program ($3,400), which has the potential to broadcast athletic events, graduation, concerts etc on cable giving the community access to view all the great events in which students participate. Students thinking of a career in broadcasting will learn valuable knowledge through this new and exciting club.
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High School Science Olympiad Building Events ($300) for materials needed for the high school Science Olympiad team.
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How Grants Are Given The SJPS Foundation awards grants to increase opportunities for students in curricula, facilities and various learning options by securing resources from diverse sources of funding through broad community involvement. To achieve these goals, we take varied approaches to our work by supporting classrooms directly through our annual teacher grants; working with school administration to determine the needs of the District and with those in the community working with our schools; sponsoring student groups; creating new opportunities; and supporting innovations that improve the lives of children in the St. Joseph Public Schools. These methods of problemsolving reflect our values and the diverse ways in which we support grantees. Our mission is broad, and we carefully target how our grants can be used most effectively. Our Grant-Awarding Process The Foundation is always looking for new projects and encourages parents, students and other groups to submit their ideas. The Project Committee reviews all submissions. Please keep in mind that our funds are limited in relation to the large number of worthwhile inquiries we receive. Projects that are more likely to affect a larger number of students in the areas of education, technology or the arts are more likely to match the Foundation’s goals. Available Grants Teacher Grants Grant forms are available on-line beginning March 15th. DEADLINE APRIL 30th. Since 2005, The St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation has been able to provide grants to teachers for activities and programs that are not funded by the general fund of the school district. These are grants specific for teachers to use in their classrooms. These are only awarded once a year at the annual opening day breakfast. Approximately $25,000 in grants is awarded each year. Special Funding Requests Grant deadlines are October 1st and February 1st. Special Funding requests are grants for those group leaders (non-teachers) and school projects that typically don’t happen in the classroom under the direction of one teacher. These may be for after school groups, special interest projects or district wide initiatives. Examples of grants given under this category are the Upton Career Day, Science Olympiad funds, District-wide license for media viewing, etc. The focus must be on academics within the District. 4th R Grant Grant forms are available year round. This special grant is specifically for students in the St. Joseph School District and funds must be used for the 4th R – Remembering. Approx. $8,000 is available annually.
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SJPS Foundation Success - Robotics Club Effect on Students
Teachers & Students Involved
Students are working side by side with volunteer engineers, programmers, and marketing professionals who last year alone gave over 1,800 hours of their time to mentor the students and help them achieve a love for science, technology, math, marketing and business. Over 16 community mentors have been actively involved over the last three years (from Whirlpool, Bosch and Liberty Steel).
2011 -Vic Vroegop & Jim Berry (25 students) 2011/2012 - Vic Vroegop & Craig Jeffers (32 students) 2012/2013 - Vic Vroegop (45 students)
Through FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics, students learn what it is like to be given a challenging problem and then to work through it. Students are able to gain so much more through this real life problem solving experience than they could in the classroom alone.
$4,000
$1,000
2010/11 District Champs Finished 63rd in State 2011/12 Finished 37th in State 2012/13 To be determined.
Student Success Five of the students on last year's team earned summer internships at Whirlpool and two students earned $20,000 scholarships to the University of Michigan, through FIRST.
2011 2012 2013
$3,000 $2,000
Team Results
2011 2010
$0 High School
Upton MS
The Future Parents are now starting a Middle School club. We have high hopes for that program. There is also a High School robotics and programing class called Mechatronics that was added to the curriculum this year.
SJPS Foundation’s Support This program could not exist without funding from the Foundation. The yearly budget is $30,000 and includes $5,000 just for the entry fees. The students also work hard to earn money through fundraisers and building relationships with area companies for additional sponsorships.
“The hardest fun you’ll ever have.”
- SJHS Student s12
SJPS Foundation Success – Ren Baldwin Technology Festival Effect on Students The 2012 grant from the Foundation for the Ren Baldwin Technology Festival impacted over 700 students in grades K-12. It also brought our community together to showcase the technology that the bond issue provided for the students and teachers of SJPS. This grant provided a direction for technology integration in our district and gave students and teachers an opportunity to highlight how technology is used to enhance the curriculum. Another grant from the Foundation is providing students and teachers with opportunities to access Web 2.0 tools and global collaboration projects. Through two grants received this year, teachers have had access to subscription web tools that allow safe and secure access to online digital resources. This includes the global community called iEarn where students can participate in collaborative projects with other students from around the world.
SJPS Foundation’s Support Without the support of the SJPS Foundation, technology in SJPS would be far behind other districts in the state. This support has provided the district with an opportunity to become a leading edge school district.
Teachers & Students Involved Over 700 students submitted projects for the first Fair in the Spring of 2012.
Prizes & Results Eight categories at four age levels for a total of 32 first place winners were presented. Each received $25 from the Foundation. There were four grand prizewinners (one per level) who received $250. The sponsoring teacher for each grand prizewinner also received the $250.
The Future This program was such a huge success that it will be an annual event. “The Ren Baldwin Student Technology Festival was an overwhelming success! We never anticipated the number of student projects that would be submitted and were thrilled with the quality and creativity the students and teachers put into their submissions. With the support of the Foundation, we were able to reward students and teachers for all of their hard work, as well as show the community how technology is being used to enhance learning in our school system.” Amy Dirlam Technology Integration Specialist
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SJPS Foundation Success – Math Curriculum Upgrade Effect on Students
Teachers & Students Involved
Due to State cuts, the District has been unable to upgrade the Math Curriculum since 2000. While math principles have not changed dramatically since that time, the technology in the classroom and the curriculum standards have.
This upgrade will affect every student in the district at all grade levels.
Schools are faced with Michigan's adoption of the new Common Core Curriculum in Math and Reading. What sets these new standards apart is a focus on not only the "what" (such as traditional standards); but also the "how". The “How” is called the math practice standards. The way we teach math is changing.
SJPS Foundation’s Support The Foundation has committed $150,000 over the next two years toward the purchase of the new math curriculum and materials for the District. “We feel that this is an important mission for the Foundation. With the cutbacks from the State it would be nearly impossible to upgrade the Math Curriculum at all levels with the necessary materials. We are grateful that we have such a dedicated Foundation to help with these shortfalls.” Ann Cardon SJPS Superintendent
Why the Need? Math performance is not currently at levels SJPS likes to see. The curriculum review process is much more than a purchase of materials. Our students’ success is due to materials that support the creation of units of instruction aligned to the common core, the professional learning of our teachers, enhanced instructional and content strategies, and use of proven strategies in the classroom.
Student Success The student growth will be measured with common assessments and standardized test results.
Implementation The curriculum study and purchase of materials are expected to be complete by the Spring of 2014.
“We are excited about exploring a new math curriculum and integrating that into the new technology that is now available to teachers and students.” Kelly Gaideski Curriculum Director s14
SJPS Foundation Success – One to One Computing Initiative SJPS Foundation’s Support In May 2010, the St. Joseph community approved a $38 million bond issue to bring the St. Joseph Public School District up to the 21st century standards in safety, energy efficiency, and technology. The work of remodeling the classrooms and providing technology is completed at the lower levels and will be completed at the high school within 2013. While each “Classroom of Today” now has the equipment necessary to deliver instruction using the latest technologies, the next step is to provide one computer for each student grades 6-12. This is a bold and costly plan. So, the Foundation has committed over $200,000 over three years to help the district accomplish this goal. We are now in year two of providing those funds.
Implementation Sixth grade teachers began training for this program in the fall of 2012. New technology also brings new opportunities and new challenges and teachers needed time and training to prepare. January of 2013, all 6th grade students received their own 13” Mac Book Air. They have used them for classroom work as well as at home for projects and homework. The change in classroom enthusiasm and collaboration has been enormous. As we continue to roll out this program we are excited about the possibilities and increased learning.
Funding Resources This ambitious project was funded from the Foundation’s general fund as well as from a grant from Fairmount Minerals for $70,000 and a three year matching grant from the F.S. Upton Foundation in a total amount of $75,000.
Student Success It will take time to truly measure the success of this program. Test results and semester grades will be monitored for the next several years to determine where changes, if any, should be made.
The Future The next step in this plan includes new computers for next year’s 6th graders and for the students the year after that. When the first group completes 8th grade they will have the option to buy their computers at a reduced rate (approx. $400). As these students move to the High School, the construction there will be complete and the infrastructure and teaching staff will be ready for one-to-one computing. A lease or borrowing program will be set up for those students who cannot bring their own computer. “Collaboration between students has become more active, and their engagement has increased dramatically now that they can work in school and across the Internet at home.” Joe Rommel 6th Grade Teacher
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Other projects funded by the SJPS Foundation Upton Planetarium (2010) - After almost 40 years of sharing the wonders of the universe with the community, the Upton Middle School Planetarium has rocketed into a new educational era. Thanks to the generosity of the Frederick S. Upton Foundation and Steve and Elizabeth Upton, the planetarium now features the latest digital technology, eight full-dome shows for prekindergarten to adult audiences, a refurbished star machine, freshly painted dome, 55 new seats, lights and sound equipment. Hundreds of people from the community came out for the Grand Re-Opening showings on Jan. 30 and Feb. 6, 2011. Since then, with funding from the Whirlpool Logistics Group and a grant from the Rotary Club, the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation has been able to provide a full range of shows for all students K-12.
St. Joseph Students Remember (2009) - To commemorate this important date in our recent history, Middle School and High School students heard from Jim LaPenna, a First Responder to the 9/11 attacks. Jim and his son spoke about their experiences during and after the Towers were hit, and accepted questions from the students. Jim and his son also joined students and community emergency personnel at the football game that evening. The Foundation was instrumental in providing the funding to support this fantastic event. It was great to see the students, community and staff, come together to honor those who continue to work toward keeping us all safe.
Culinary Arts – The SJPS Foundation provided a grant in 2009 to the Foods & Nutrition Department to provide portable cooktops and chef apparel for the students to compete in cook-offs and perform demonstrations. This has been a fun and valuable experience for the students. Another grant in 2011, provided new equipment and technology for the culinary classroom, including scales to help in determining the nutritional value of ingredients. This has been very eye-opening for the students. In 2013 the program received a grant to purchase molecular gastronomy kits. One hundred forty-plus students use these on an annual basis. This contemporary technique gives real world experience to students interested in pursuing a career in the field of Food and Nutrition.
Community Sign (2009)– The Foundation coordinated with the City of St. Joseph and the School Board to create this community sign. Special thanks go to the City of St. Joseph, St. Joseph Improvement Association, Schalon Foundation, Frederick S. Upton Foundation, Erik and Irene Fiskars and numerous other donors. One anonymous donor gave money for landscaping that was designed by Lori Nye-Bolt, a former SJPS student, who created the maize and blue floral theme.
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Other projects funded by the SJPS Foundation Third in the Nation! – In the Spring of 2012, St. Joseph Chamber Orchestra students traveled to Atlanta, Georgia, per a special invitation to compete in the National Orchestra Festival. This is the first time that St. Joseph was ever presented with such an invitation. With support from friends, family, staff and the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation, the students not only brought home third place overall, but also had the opportunity to participate in several workshops. St. Joseph has always had the reputation of a stellar orchestra program, but this was an amazing accomplishment for all those involved. Additionally the SJPS Foundation has now taken on the task of funding new school instruments for both the band and orchestra. Many of these instruments are over 40 years old and are no longer able to be repaired. We are hopeful that within the next 1-2 years funding will be available to replace these instruments and help our students and teachers continue with this strong tradition of excellence.
Classrooms of Today (2009) - Walk into Room 250 at St. Joseph High School and you’ll see instantly that this isn’t the classroom you grew up in. It looks like a high-tech meeting room at any area corporation. We call this the Classroom of Today. All the audio/visual systems a teacher needs are in this classroom. A wireless remote lets students and teachers move seamlessly from information on a computer to DVD to VCR to TV to external digital devices. That means if a student brings in a podcast or PowerPoint® presentation downloaded on his/her MP3 player or phone, he/she can share it with the entire class with a click of the remote. The Classroom of Today also has a 3-D object projector that lets a teacher project items on the screen for an eyes-on learning experience. An interactive white board lets students and teachers project their computer screen. The board also saves notes written on it, prints or e-mails them to everyone in the class and to students who are home sick. A digital response system lets students take quizzes electronically so teachers know instantly the class’ mastery of the lesson. The room also features tables with chairs on casters so teachers can quickly reset the room for individual or group learning. Non-reflective lighting improves the learning environment, also. A total of five pilot classrooms were installed throughout the District, solely funded by the SJPS Foundation, including donations from the Tom & Marie Yeager Family Foundation, Whirlpool Supply Chain, Dr. Gyl Kasewurm, Bill and Jane Marohn, Allegretti Architects, Prism Science & Technology, LLC, Insurance Management, Marzke Realty, Smith/Dahmer Associates and Vail Rubber Works. The success of these rooms led in part to the passage of a $38 million bond issue to improve all classrooms in the district as well as other improvements in safety and security and energy efficiency in the Spring of 2011.
Civic Lessons – Learning about government and citizen’s rights starts at a young age for students in St. Joseph. In October of 2011, the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation, with funding from Steve and Elizabeth Upton, brought the National Constitution Center from Philadelphia, PA to present workshops, presentations and assemblies to students at all grade levels. Topics included the Emancipation Proclamation, Being an Active Citizen, Growing Up American Style, and the Citizenship Show.
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SJPS Foundation Members Responsibilities & Privileges
Volunteer Opportunities
Members are the lifeblood of the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation. As such they:
Without our volunteers many of the accomplishments of the Foundation would not be possible. We are grateful for all of the work that our members do throughout the year.
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Serve as Ambassadors for the Foundation, promoting awareness and understanding.
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Occasionally volunteer time on special committees, and provide feedback to the Foundation.
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Provide financial support to the Foundation according to their personal comfort levels.
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Are invited to attend the annual membership reception in the fall.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation, please contact SJPS Foundation Coordinator, Christine Waterhouse at cwaterhouse@sjschools.org
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Serve o o o o o
on a Committee Funding Project Teacher Grants Public Relations Alumni Relations
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Annual American Girl Fashion Show o Volunteer Coordinator o Backstage Help o Out front day of show o Promotional events o Other
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Annual Mailings o Year End Appeal o No Show Ball
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Special Projects
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SJPS Foundation Members Mr. & Mrs. James Algyre Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Averill Mr. & Mrs. Renard Baldwin Mr. & Mrs. Cliff Barlow Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Beck Mr. & Mrs. Richard Bell Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Belski Mr. & Mrs. Donald Bleich Ms. Amy Bleich-Heugel Mr. & Mrs. Donald Boerma Mr. & Mrs. Blaine Buckingham Mr. & Mrs. Steve Burdick Mr. Dan Butzbaugh Mrs. Priscilla Byrns Dr. & Mrs. John H. Carter Mr. & Mrs. Bill Chickering Dr. & Mrs. Todd Christy Mrs. Nicole Coar Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Cook Mr. & Mrs. Michael Dirlam Mr. & Mrs. Michael Dumke Mr. & Mrs. Sean Ebbert Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Edwards Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ehrenberg Mr. & Mrs. Edward Eisele Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Fettig Mr. & Mrs. Tom Fowler Mr. & Mrs. Michael Garey Mr. & Mrs. Peit Geldof Mr. & Mrs. Jack Gibson Mr. & Mrs. Richard Gorbett Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gottlieb Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hahn Mrs. Carol Hake Dr. & Mrs. David Halstead Mr. & Mrs. James Harmon Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Hopp Dr. & Dr. Erik Hudak Mr. & Mrs. Robert Johanski Mr. & Mrs. William Johnson Dr. & Mr. Gyl Kasewurm Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Klemm Mr. & Mrs. Gary Koch Mr. & Mrs. James Kodis
Dr. & Mrs. George Kolettis Dr. & Mrs. Ted Kuball Mr. Warren Lopata Mr. & Mrs. Joseph LoPresti Mr. & Mrs. David Mack Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd MacTavish Mr. & Mrs. Phil Maki Mr. & Mrs. James Marohn Mr. & Mrs. Cary Marsh Ms. Linda McConville Mr. Alan McKee, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Michael Peirce Mr. & Mrs. Robert Peirce Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Perrin Mr. & Mrs. David Peterson II Dr. John L. Porritt Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Reimann Mr. & Mrs. James Riemland Ms. Mary Beth Rohaly Mr. & Mrs. John Ruddell Mr. & Mrs. Richard Russell Ms. Suz Schalon Mrs. Marcie Schalon Mr. & Mrs. David Shellito Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Sinn Mr. & Mrs. Allen Skibbe Mrs. Louise Skibbe Dr. & Mrs. Daniel Sohn Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas State Mrs. Carol Stockman Mr. & Mrs. Fred Upton Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Upton Mrs. Linda Upton Dr. & Mrs. Ramon Urrea Mr. & Mrs. George VonBehren Mr. & Mrs. Michael Wagner Mr. & Mrs. Frank Walsh Mr. & Mrs. Carl Warren Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Wasserman Mr. & Mrs. David Whitwam Ms. Carol Wick Mr. & Mrs. Chris Yeager Mr. Tom Yeager
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Other Foundation Initiatives GOLDEN BEARS The Golden Bears is a group of retirees from the St. Joseph school system. Throughout the year different events and social gatherings are planned. Some examples of past events include attending the annual orchestra and choir concert at the Mendel Center, summer picnic reunions, tailgating at the first St. Joseph football game of the season, regular social gatherings throughout the year at the library and other local restaurants. There is also a quarterly newsletter sent to those near and far. The Golden Bears also provides many volunteers for the schools and SJPS Foundation in the form of tutoring, preparing mailings, etc. This group has grown dramatically over the last couple of years and is now self-sustaining, although still under the umbrella of the Foundation.
THANK A TEACHER/STAFF MEMBER For several years now the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation has accepted donations in honor or memory of past and present staff at St. Joseph Schools. It’s a wonderful way for the community, current parents and students as well as alums to show how much these people meant to their lives. A certificate is sent to the staff member or family notifying them of the contribution. The dono also receives a receipt to use for your tax deduction. It’s a win for everyone!
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ALUMNI RELATIONS A major effort has been put into reconnecting with alumni over the last several years. While the is much yet to accomplish, much has already been done. •
Alumni Database – Before the Foundation started collecting names no alumni database existed. We now have over 9,000 names and hope to continue to grow and maintain this list. The goal is not only to collect addresses but also emails. This will help in distributing information about District and Foundation events as well as help those planning reunions.
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Distinguished Alumni Award- The St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation annually honors alumni who have excelled in their professions and/or made significant contributions to their community. The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes exemplary St. Joseph High School graduates. No one actively employed by the school system or currently serving on the School Board or Foundation Board are considered. Distinguished Alumni achievements, strength of character and citizenship serve as a valuable model to inspire and challenge current students. Past winners and more information can be found on the Foundation web site.
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ENCORE Reunion Variety Show – Scheduled for the summer of 2014. We are very excited about this new endeavor. Watch for more!
PLANNED GIVING
"I wish I could do more." That's the comment we often hear from friends of St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation when they make gifts to our programs. To answer that question and assist with making that decision, the SJPS Foundation has set up a section of their web site dedicated to that exact topic. Strange as it may sound, a gift of "startling significance" often can be made at very low cost. It's just a matter of planning WHAT to give, HOW to give and WHEN to give. More information on how to do this is available on the Foundation web site.
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2012 Donors Visionary ($10,000+)* Ed Todd & Debra Glover Fairmount Minerals Foundation Professional Hearing Services Bill & Jane Marohn St. Joseph Improvement Association Schalon Foundation F.S. Upton Foundation Steve & Elizabeth Upton Dr. Ray & Kathy Urrea Whirlpool Logistics Tom & Marie Yeager Foundation Ambassador ($1,000-$2,499) Mr. & Mrs. Sam Abdelnour Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Belski Dennis & Lynn Bowen Mr. & Mrs. Robert Bowes Barry & Jody Conybeare Mr. & Mrs. Edward Eisele Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Fettig Mr. & Mrs. Tom Fowler Bob & Anne Gottlieb Dan & Lupe Hopp Joan and Bob Judd Gyl & David Kasewurm Philip & Becky Laney Philip & Loni Maki Jim & Amy Marohn Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Peirce Marcie Schalon Susan K. Schalon Fellow ($500-$999) Rich & Jan Brandt The Bells Mark & Michele Booth Christy Family Wayne & Michele Demchinski Mrs. Warren Gast Carol Hake Dr. & Mrs. John M. Kim Norman Marschke Chris & Lisa Neuser Dr. & Mrs. Edmund Paloyan Amy Porritt-Peirce & Michael Peirce & Family Dr. John L. Porritt Randy & Monika Reimers Allen & Betsy Skibbe Corine Tichenor Mark Wielinga Patron ($250-$499) Tom & Kathryn Altholz Ginny Antonson Danny & Heather Bartz Andrew & Kim Batson Steve & Kathy Burdick Mrs. Priscilla Byrns Dr & Mrs. John H. Carter Chris & Katie Cook
Cindy & Bob Ehrenberg Mr. & Mrs. Rocque Emlong Tereck & Emily Halsey Bill & Kathy Hanley Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Holubar Greg Guernsey Ted & Lalee Kuball Dale & Connie Kubicki Larry & Marcia Lindemann Jim & Beth Mandarino Ed & Susie Meny Mr. & Mrs. Pat Moody Lacinda Neilson Ms. Norma Nesbit Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Patrick Mr. Andrew Radenbaugh Jan & Jerry Reimann Jim & Sue Riemland Marilyn Robbins Mr. Mike Ryan Jeff & Nancy Saylor Nancy Schroeder Tom & Helen Sinn Jan Skaggs Dr. & Mrs. Daniel Sohn Teresa Terry Tim Walls Christine Waterhouse David & Barbara Whitwam Mr. & Mrs. Mark Zielke Associate ($100-$249) Kathie Adams Jim & Liz Algyre John Allen Meriellen Allen Michelle Allen Ms. Tracy Althouse Lisa Altman Mr. Elmo Amaya William Astras Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Averill Ren & Phyllis Baldwin Jeff & Barb Balinski Perry & Annette Ballard Amy Barfuss Mr. & Mrs. Cliff Barlow Beth & Gregg Beaudette Jeff & Julie Beck Mr. & Mrs. Jim Bernard Lauri Berry Mr. & Mrs. William Berry, Jr. Angela Blomgren Donald & Georgia Boerma June Bowman Todd Boyd Steven & Jamie Brooks Karmen Brower Mrs. Annette Brown Scott Brown Gloria Brushwyler Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Burch
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2012 Donors Kathy Buursma John Callender Renee Catania Maggie Chaddock Mr. & Mrs. Bill Chickering Sherry Conybeare Amanda Craig Jamie Culver Karen Delgado Donna DeMay Barbara DeVries Michael Damschroder Mr. & Mrs. Michael Dirlam Tom & Chris Dixon Ann Donahue Janene Donarski Pam Dorgelo David Driscoll Mr. & Mrs. Richard Dudding David Dumke Mike & Donna Dumke Timothy Dunaj Richard & Pamela Dyer Robert Dyer Kris & Sean Ebbert Cindy Ehrich Kenneth Elie Vicki Elsner Kreis Enderle Ann Essig Gary Etter Carol Fasbender Barry & Diane Favorite Erik & Irene Fiskars Alice Fitzgerald Karen Fitzstephens Sheelah Fraser Mary Frey Liz & Mike Garey Brad German Scott Getz Jack & Kara Gibson Ms. Patricia Gibson Peit & Sally Geldof Carl & Mary Goff Jennifer Golba Carmen Grandy Dick Grau Elmer R. Greening Cathy Gressley Ron & Mary Griffen Mr. & Mrs. David Grumbine Tracy Guekes Mr. & Mrs. John Guldan Connie Haase Patricia Hageman James & Gayle Hagenbarth Robert & Janet Hahn Rick & Lisa Halliday David & Dina Halstead Ronald Hamilton Jim & Peg Harmon
Kam Heathcote Rick & Kitty Heckathorn Debra Hirn Craig Hubble Dr. Erik Hudak Jeff Hudson Amy Hume Joyce Hunter Mr. & Mrs. George L. Jaeger Mr. Roger Jensen Robert & Martha Johanski Amy & Harvey Johnson Bill & Patt Johnson Don & Diana Kamp Min Ke Lori Khan Mary Killian Marcie Kelly Randy & Kim Keppeler Jordan Kirshenbaum Cathy Klaer Ryan Klaer Kim Klinke Lisa Knuth Gary & Allison Koch Karen Koch Jim & Nancy Kodis George & Julie Kolettis Mr. & Mrs. Greg Koroch Kroonblawd Family Mark Kreter Marilyn Kubath Ray & Lynanne Kunkel John Kurtz Karen & Steve Lage Sandra Landis Brenda Lange Dave Lawrence Beth & Craig Lehner Chris & Patricia Linn Amanda Lirones Don & Linda Litke Midge Lockwitz Dale & Marilyn Lucy Anne MacDonald Karin Magalhaes Chad & Kristy Mandarino Richard Mashke Dr. & Dr. James Mazzulla Linda McConville Alan H. McKee, Jr. Tara McKibben Steve & Flori Mejeur Cynthia Miller Kirby Milton Mary Ann Milletics Dick & Shirley Moeckel Jim & Margie Morphey Roger Morrissett Larry & Carla Morrow Carl & Beth Mosher Nick & Jan Nealer
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2012 Donors Harry & Delores Nicholie Patricia Nordberg Norland Family Diane Nye Dennis & Liz Okon Barb Oros Bryan Parsons Gustavo Parsons Judith Paruch Kenley Penner Dennis & Karla Percy Mary Peterson Pfahler Family Arden Pridgeon Michelle Priefer Jeanne Query Jerome Radenbaugh Matthew Reck Jim & Denise Reeves Sally Rendell Sarah Ringer Misty Roberts Jennifer Rose David & Candace Roter Jean Ryan John & Jenna Ruddell Danny Drotos & Therese Saggau Judy Sarvela David & Cathy Schaffer David Scheffler Bethany Schiff Scott Schonschack Mr. & Mrs. Carlton Schooley Ronald T. Schramm Elaine Schueneman Elizabeth Schueneman Roger Schulke Tom & Tracy Schwyn Amy Scrima Brenda Searfoss Christine Sharon Margaret Silverthorn Gary & May Sission Ronald Sisson Louise Skibbe Mr. Ronald Schults Ed & Gloria Smith Kathy R. Steinke Catherine Stants Todd Stebbins Keith Stevens Warwick & Jennifer Stirling Mr. & Mrs. James Straub Deb Stouffer Darcy Stuck Dennis & Christy Taylor Paul & Jackie Taglia Dorothy Ticknor Jeffery Tichenor Ed Trainor Janet Trumbley Victoria Trupiano
Catherine Tuthill Charley Upton Linda Upton Katherine Vande Brake Jan Versaw George & Lainie VonBehren Mike & Joanne Voth Michelle Vukorpa Susan Wade Gail Wadel Mike & Tracy Wagner Liam Walls Frank & Shar Walsh Dana Walsworth Thomas Weber Char Wenham Catherine Werdann Kenneth Whise Carol Wick Mike Whittaker Louise Whitteley-Ernst James Wicks Ron Willging Patricia Winger Teresa Winters John Wismer Maribeth Wonson Rodney Ziemer Milton Zoschke Friend ($1-$99) Joanne Averill Mr. & Mrs. Chad Balon Ms. Lynnora Beaubien Jeff & Diane Binder Mr. & Mrs. Taurino Callejas Randy & Laura Coard Richard Cole Glenna Collines Ms. Mary Jo Davis Mr. & Mrs. Michael Demasi Mr. & Mrs. Donald Dryden Ms. Thelma Gehres Mr. & Mrs. William Gillespie Rich & Danea Gorbett Mr. Josh Green Mr. & Mrs. Ray Haack Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Hanlon Christen Hopkins G.M. Holmes Chris & Julie Ives Ms. Elizabeth James Nancy R. Johnson William Keigley Mr. & Mrs. Keller Mr. & Mrs. Donald Kempf Mr. & Mrs. Ivan Kiessel Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Lancelot Jay & Joy Lennartz Ms. Merrily Mahon Michael Ortwine Eva Mateo-Paul Ernest & Debora Matlock
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2012 Donors Mark & Sally Matzke Mr. & Mrs. Jeff McClelland Mr. & Mrs. Tom Miller Mr. & Mrs. David Nauman Dave & Amy Peterson Bob & Linda Roberts Susan Russell Ms. Gladys Sandera Mr. Steven Schadler Ms. Jennifer Schmidt Gordon & Nikki Schreiber Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas State Mrs. William Steinke Carol Stockman Mr. Joseph Strickler Ms. Diane Swain Mr. & Mrs. Rolando Tagudar Michael & Lori Tierney Joseph & Donna Wasserman Corporate/Business Aay’s Rental Abonmarche Ace Hardware The Admirals All American Doll Store Alley Cuts APB Enterprises Art and Interiors Design Group Auto Owners Insurance Beijo Berrien Hills Golf Club The Bistro at the Boulevard Bloomies Flower Studio Brown’s Locksmith Brown School Elementary PTO BTS Telecom The Buck Caffe Tosi Chemical Bank Chivo’s Pizza The Christmas Tree City of St. Joseph Concord Ridge Equestrian Center Connie Cassidy School of Dance Cravings Dairy Queen, St. Joseph Dance Arts Dee-Blast Doubleday Office Products Edgewater Bank Edgewater Resources Eslo Studio E. P. Clarke Elementary PTO Eve’s Boutique Fifth Third Bank First Source Bank Forever Books Functional Homes Gallery on the Alley Harding’s Friendly Market Honor Credit Union
Horizon Bank Insurance Management Service Joe’s Cafe Kalin Construction Keller & Keller Kelley’s Bowl Kilwin’s Chocolates Krasl Art Center Lakeland HealthCare La Pita Lambrecht’s Liquor Store Landis Clothing Company Lincoln School Elementary PTO Mark III Martin’s Supermarket Mary Kay by Andrea Wilson McDonalds, St. Joseph Mimi’s Cupcakes Modern Printing Moxie’s Boutique Nature’s Way Landscaping Nutrition Now O.K. Distributors Oscar’s Printing Pater’s True Value Perry Ballard, Inc. The Phoenix Power In Motion Roger’s Foodland Rooster’s Party Store Roy H. Liskey, Inc. St. Joseph Anytime Fitness St. Joseph Today Salon Salon Sandford & Lieschen Pastroff Schaffer & Layher Schu’s Bar and Grille Secant Technologies Senior PGA Championship Shelton Construction Silver Beach Carousel Society Silver Beach Pizza South Bend Chocolate Factory Southshore Companies Southshore Health & Racquet Club Southwest Michigan Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine SW Michigan Symphony Orchestra Tara Florist/Twelve Oaks Taylor Rental Tidy Car The Toy Company Tosi’s Restaurant TPC Technologies Twin City Beauty College United Federal Credit Union University Park Mall Upton Middle School PTO Vail Rubber Waterfront Framing & Fine Art Whirlpool Corporation
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MISSION: The purpose of the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation is to raise, steward and distribute resources to enrich the education of students in the St. Joseph Public Schools District.
St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation 3275 Lincoln Avenue, St. Joseph, MI 49085 T: 269.926.3252 F: 269.926.3203 www.stjosephpublicschoolsfoundation.org