“Our Schools” News Family, Community, Excellence December 1, 2018 alleganps.org
Coach Rose Inducted into Wrestling Hall of Fame
Students Tour Perrigo
High School teacher and former wrestling coach, Murray Rose, was recently inducted in the Michigan Wrestling Association’s Hall of Fame. Coach Rose has served with distinction as our Allegan High School Wrestling coach from 1985 until 2016. During his tenure, Allegan Tigers wrestling teams won two state titles and developed 18 state champions. He was also recognized at State Coach of the Year (two times), Regional Coach of the Year (eleven times), and Wolverine Conference Coach of the Year (twelve times). In addition, Coach Rose continues to support wrestling by serving as an MHSAA Wrestling Official. Also on November 15, Coach received the Wolverine Conference Distinguished Service Award. Both are well-deserved honors. Congratulations, Coach! In This Issue: Contact Information Superintendent’s Message Staff News Doing Good Middle School High School Allegan Tiger Athletics Allegan Performing Arts Elementary Schools Allegan Alternative High Other News Fundraising Fun Allegan Aquatic Center
Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10-11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15
On Friday, October 26, Allegan High School and Perrigo Corporation made history. Perrigo Corporation, as part of Discovery Manufacturing Employer Tour, hosted Allegan High School’s AM and PM Tech Center students for a tour of one of the plants. Students witnessed first-hand manufacturing and the many career opportunities available. Perrigo had never hosted a tour with 60-70 people before making AHS the first to do so. Students also had the opportunity to meet with other area manufacturers and learn about other career opportunities available. Students were greeted by Perrigo executives and were then split into groups for their tour. Once at the plant, students were given lab clothing, gloves, and hairnets for the tour. Students were able to witness everything from the raw chemical shipment area to the holding tanks where chemicals are processed into medicine. After that, they were able to see the finished product packaged, labeled, inspected, and boxed for distribution. Special thanks to Steve Ramus, Perrigo Corporation, and Dawn Hoyer, AHS, for making this unique and historical opportunity available for our students. Pictured right: High School students touring Perrigo.
Apple Crunch!
October 23 was the 6th Annual Michigan’s Apple Crunch. More than 400,000 Michiganders, including all of our elementary students at Allegan Public Schools, “crunched” into a tasty Michigan apple. This event continues to grow every year and is even creeping into our neighboring states. Apples were purchased from local farmers for students to enjoy.
Pictured above: Mrs. Marlett’s kindergarteners at North Ward enjoying their apple.
Allegan Public Schools
Upcoming APS Dates:
Telephone Numbers
November 30 Two-Hour Early Release December 21 Two-Hour Early Release Dec 24-Jan 4 NO SCHOOL (Holiday Break) January 16 Two-Hour Early Release February 4-7 Parent-Teacher Conferences* February 8 Two-Hour Early Release February 20 Two-Hour Early Release February 22 NO SCHOOL (Mid-Winter Break) *Check your child’s building for dates and times.
Administration Office.................................... 673-5431 Kevin Harness (superintendent) James Antoine (director of instruction) Amy Christman (director of finance & operations) George Mohr (state and federal programs) Allegan High School ......................................673-7002 Jim Mallard (principal) Hillary Baker (assistant principal) L.E. White Middle School............................... 673-2241 Erin Hafer (principal) Chris Reeve (assistant principal) Dawson Elementary....................................... 673-6925 Rebecca Shuper (principal) North Ward Elementary................................. 673-6003 Becky Corbett (principal) Pine Trails Elementary................................... 673-5379 Kari Luckett (principal) West Ward Elementary.................................. 673-7000 Melanie Cassar (principal) Allegan Alternative High & Adult Ed.............. 673-5433 Laura Feffer (principal) Special Education........................................... 673-5431 Brady Chestnut (director) Athletic Office................................................ 673-7002 Ron Orr (director) Pool/Aquatics................................................. 673-7002 Chris Madill (ext. 5507) Maintenance Department..............................673-2085 George Zeock (supervisor) Transportation Department...........................673-2203 Brian Corbett (supervisor) Food Service .................................................673-7002 Barb Elenbaas (supervisor) ext. 5517 Allegan Online/Adult Ed ...............................673-5431 Brenda Nyhof (director) ext. 3022
ENTER THE APS WEBSITE PHOTO CONTEST Your photo could be on the home page of the APS website! Enter our monthly contest by visiting our website at alleganps.org to submit your entry. Winners will also receive an Allegan Public Schools sticker. Submit your photos by December 29.
Allegan Public Schools Board of Education 2018-19 Regular Meeting Schedule August 13, 2018 (6:00 p.m.) September 10, 2018 (7:00 p.m.) October 8, 2018 (7:00 p.m.) November 12, 2018 (7:00 p.m.) December 10, 2018 (7:00 p.m.) January 14, 2019 (7:00 p.m.) February 11, 2019 (7:00 p.m.) March 11, 2019 (7:00 p.m.) April 8, 2019 (7:00 p.m.) May 13, 2019 (7:00 p.m.) June 10, 2019 (6:00 p.m.) July 9, 2018 (6:00 p.m.) Organizational Meeting
School Web page: alleganps.org
2018-19 Board Members:
Front l to r: Jennifer Nicholson, Nathon Kelley, KD Lake Back l to r: Lane Sturman, Vicki Knuckles, Mary Kasprzyk, Troy Carns
►Most regular meetings scheduled for the 2nd Monday of each month. ►Regular meetings during the school year are scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. ►Regular meetings during the summer (June, July, August) begin at 6:00 p.m. ►Special meetings will be posted at the entrance and on the district website. ►All meetings to be held at the Allegan Public Schools’ Administration Building, 550 Fifth Street, Allegan MI 49010, unless otherwise posted. ►Official board minutes are stored at the Administration Building, 550 Fifth Street, Allegan, MI 49010 and are available for review at this address. ►Interested citizens are invited to attend meetings. There is an opportunity for public comments of a general nature at the beginning of every board meeting. Persons with disabilities who need special accommodations should contact the Superintendent at 673-5431, or at 550 Fifth Street, Allegan, MI 49010, ten days prior to the meeting.
The “Our Schools News” is a publication of Allegan Public Schools. It is published at least four times annually and mailed to all residents of the Allegan area. If you know of someone who is not receiving this publication that would benefit from receiving it, please contact Laura Sullivan, editor, at 673-5431 or email lsullivan@alleganps.org. Page 2
ss”
ne r a H
“
. . . the POWER of Education (A message from the superintendent of schools)
Superintendent Harness
Belated Thanksgiving Message
It’s difficult to believe that we have already completed one-third of the 2018-19 school year. The first trimester ends on November 30, and report cards will be coming home soon. Looking back at the school calendar for the last three months, it is apparent that much has already happened this year with fall sports and the marching band season wrapping up, the fall musical Tarzan completing a successful three-day run, and elementary principals spending the night on the roof of the school or getting dunked in a water tank countless times all for fun and in support our students. Many other notable events are displayed in the pages of this edition of the Our Schools News. I hope that your family had a great start to the school year! I would like to thank our families for the trust shown to us every day to take care of and educate their children. Their trust is not taken lightly. Our goal at Allegan Public Schools is to support our students in any way that we can, in order to provide an opportunity for their greatest success. It takes many individuals with a variety of skills and talents to support our students and our mission. The last time I checked, Allegan Public Schools was the third largest employer in town, after Perrigo and Allegan County. Including our teachers, administrators, secretaries, central office staff, instructional assistants, media/library coordinators, noon hour supervisors, food service staff, maintenance and custodial staff, transportation staff, coaches, and several other support staff, we have over 350 employees. So in addition to thanking all of our families for sharing their children with us, I also want to thank our entire staff for working diligently every day to help OUR kids succeed!
Snow Days
I am writing this on our first snow day of the year, one of the few occasions when superintendents are actually fairly popular individuals. I thought I would use this opportunity to shed some light on what determines whether or not there is a snow day. Obviously, student and staff safety is always the focus. If it is determined that it is unsafe to be traveling on the roads, we call a snow day. However, we live in West Michigan so traveling on snow-covered roads is a necessity. If we called a snow day every time there was snowfall, we would be transitioning to year-round school without intending to. Icy or extremely slippery roads, as well as drifting of snow, are determining factors. Visibility, as well as the forecast for additional snowfall, is also considered. We drive the roads, watch the forecast, and communicate with surrounding school districts, all in an attempt to make the right call. Our school district is 156 square miles. Often the amount of snowfall and, subsequently, the road conditions are quite different from one side of the district to the other. So don’t be too surprised if we have a snow day when there is only an inch or two of snow on your driveway. Only a few miles away there could be ten inches of snow with drifting of several feet. Parents: Please be aware that if you do not believe it is safe to be on the roads, you may keep your children home and the absence is excused. Simply contact your building office to let them know. I am frequently asked how many snow days are we allowed before we have to make up the days at the end of the year. The answer is six. The state allows up to six cancellation days for weather conditions, a broken boiler, or any other unforeseen event not controlled by the district. I know that many of us enjoy a snow day, but let’s hope that 2018-19 is not one of the years we are adding on school days in June. Happy Holidays and best wishes for a blessed New Year everyone! Go Tigers! Page 3
Welcome! New Faces to the Allegan Public Schools Family!
Hillary Baker
Assistant Principal
Dawn Brower
High School
Library Coordinator
Susan Knobloch
Micah Kool
High School
Allegan Online/ Adult Ed
Kitchen Attendant
Megan Martin
Teacher - 1/2 Split
Dawson
Jackie Rewa
Academic Coach
High School
West Ward
Teacher
Kelly Dewey
Becca Gaiser
Katie Harris
Karen Hotchkiss
Dawson
Dawson
Instructional Assistant
Academic Coach
High School
Instructional Assistant
Mindy Laarman
Kori Livingston
Kari Luckett
Steve Maichelle
High School
Pine Trails
Allegan Online/ Adult Ed
Pine Trails
Instructional Assistant
North Ward
Amy Miling
Custodian
Kaytlynn Nichols
Principal
Jordyn Osburn
Instructional Assistant
Noon Hour Supervisor
Instructional Assistant
Janet Roark
Stephanie Ryan
Melissa Trebing
West Ward
Middle School
Dawson
West Ward
Noon Hour Supervisor
Dawson
Teacher - ESL
Page 4
Dawson
Teacher - 3rd
Noon Hour Supervisor
Teacher
Christine Pardee
Instructional Assistant
Pine Trails
Abigail Waynick
Teacher-Social Studies
High School
Doing Good in the Community A Special Letter against Bullying
In the Spring of 2017-18, all Allegan Public Schools 7th-grade English Language Arts students identified a real-world problem, came up with a solution, and sought the help of somebody to implement their solution. Many students received letters back from prominent figures in society. Letters came in from all over the world and from all different government agencies. Pictured left is current 8th-grader, Lucas Cogar, who sought the help of the White House to help end bullying across the nation. First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump, responded and reminded us to “always remember that you can make a difference in our society.”
Living Drug-Free
While attending a Pow Wow this summer, L.E. White 8th-grader Chris Shawa was asked to participate in the Michigan Health and Human Services’ drug-free advertising campaign. Chris gladly accepted and is the face of living drugfree.
Local Business Woman Gives Back to Allegan Alternative High School
There is so much kindness in the world. A local business-woman has decided to take every one of the Allegan Alternative High School students on a trip to Barnes & Noble to pick out a book of their choice. After choosing a book, they are then treated to lunch together at Applebee’s. This will be continued throughout the school year until all AAHS students have experienced the same opportunity. There were so many smiles, hugs, and even tears of joy. Gratitude was everywhere! We love it when community members want to get to know our incredible young people.
Pictured right: Kass McElwee is all smiles after getting her books.
Page 5
Middle School Matters
Keeping Students Warm One Head at a Time
As part of their “Keeping Our Students Warm One Head at a Time” charity project, the 7th and 8thgrade sewing classes recently “sewed” up their fleece hat project. Students stitched and delivered the hats to kindergarten and first-graders. On Friday, November 2, the 7th and 8th-graders visited West Ward Elementary where kindergarten students heard stories and tried on their new hats. This project was completed just in time for the cold weather. If you have any fleece you would like to donate to this project, please drop it off at the middle school or contact Susan Schalk at 269.673.2241.
Tigers Unite!
Over 80 students at L.E. White Middle School signed up to participate in the student-driven positive impact club Tigers Unite. Already this year, the team has contributed to more than a dozen projects promoting kindness. From creating inspirational videos to walking with elementary students; Tigers Unite members are working hard to make a positive difference at APS and the community of Allegan. Be on the lookout for more awesome projects from the TU team! If you want to help the team achieve their projects, Tigers Unite would like your Village Market Receipts, please feel free to drop them off at the middle school office. Pictured: Tiger’s Unite member, Destiny Hudson, talks to a Dawson Elementary student about making positive choices and spreading kindness.
Día de los Muertos
Middle School Spanish students have had a busy fall. Students in 7th and 8th-grade ended their food unit by making some of the foods that they learned about from Mexico and Spain. Sixth-grade students learned about Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and had a laughing skeleton contest that represented life after death. Spanish Club members spent time after school learning about and decorating sugar skulls from Mexico as part of their understanding of Día de los Muertos. (Pictured: Alyson Tripp shows off her skeleton.)
Tigers Closet Offers Items for Student
The L.E. White staff has designed a project dedicated to the well-being of their students. They recently organized “TIGERS Closet” for students in need. They have many items available including winter coats, various clothing items, school supplies, and personal products. If you or someone you know is in need of any items, please see the L.E. White Middle School website for the Closet form at the bottom of the webpage (see below). In order to keep this project going, community support is needed in the form of donations. Winter coats of all sizes, especially men’s and women’s, hats and gloves, and winter boots could help provide warmth for those without on long snowy walks to and from school. Apart from the wintery items, school supplies and hygiene products are always needed. Thank you in advance for donating to our students here in Allegan!
How to access the Student Closet Request Form
• Visit the L.E. White MIddle School home page at: alleganps.org/ms • Click on “Student Closet Request” form under “Student Services”
Page 6
High School Highlights Student Leaders Help a Family in Need
The Allegan High School Student Leaders organized a coin drive for a local family after they suffered a house fire. The coin drive raised $600 in donations. The funds were used to purchase items of the family’s choice. The 1st place class was Mrs. Cooper’s 4th hour with a total of $89.70. They received a pizza party for their collections. The 2nd place class was Mr. Legge’s 4th hour with a total of $75.75, and they received a donut party. Thank you to the students of Allegan High School for your generosity.
Salsa Taste Testing
On the 10th of October, the Spanish Club had its annual Salsa Competition to see who could make the most original, spiciest, or tastiest salsa. Students enjoyed making, tasting, and voting on the salsa. Twelve different salsas were sampled and the winners were: Tastiest salsa: Antonia Britton Spiciest salsa: Elaina Vazquez Most original salsa: Hannah Helmboldt
Reality fair
On November 13, Mrs. Hoyer’s Accounting and Business Applications students attended the 2nd Annual Reality Fair sponsored by Allegan Credit Union. During this Fair, the students were given a career choice, gross annual salary, and monthly net take-home pay. The students then visited each booth which represented real scenarios. They had to decide on their housing, transportation, leisure, etc., and figure out their budget. The goal was to be able to pay all their bills and increase their total money saved. Kris Lewis and Erin Kazminske from Allegan Credit Union, along with Honor, Arbor, Advia, 1st United, and Greater Niles helped to sponsor this event for AHS.
Pictured l to r: Sarah Hicks, Stephanie Hicks, and Antonia Britton enjoy tasting and voting on the salsa.
Page 7
Allegan Tiger Athletics
M.V.E. Game Save the Date!
The “Most Valuable Educator” basketball game, sponsored by the Educational Foundation of Allegan Public Schools, will be on Friday, January 18. Wear your 2018-19 C.O.D.E. Orange shirt to get in free to this event. Shirts are By: Ron Orr, Athletic Director available at Allegan True Value and the APS Adminalleganps.org/athletics istration Building. This is a great night where senior athletes on the boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball This fall has been another exciting season for the teams will honor their “Most Valuable Educator.” Allegan Tigers. Many teams and athletes had For more information, check out the Ed Foundation successful performances and seasons, while other website by visiting alleganps.org and clicking on programs continued to show progress toward “District > Educational building championship teams. Tiger Tennis had another championship season led by Coach Ellis win- Foundation.” All ning the Wolverine Conference, Regionals, and plac- proceeds from this fundraiser go toward ing third in the MHSAA Tennis State Championship. providing teacher miniMany players played their way to the state finals grants and scholarships (Zac Sisson, Zach Lang #1 Doubles, Owen Clearwafor Allegan teachers ter, Walker Michaels #3 Doubles, and Ben Groth, Vance Muenzer #4 Doubles) and represented Allegan and students. Tennis in an excellent manner. Girls Golf also had a photo credit: Kim Sparks first this year qualifying the first ever golfer for the MHSAA State Tournament. Morgan Sturman represented Allegan Golf at the tournament and had a solid performance. Several swimmers qualified for the State Meet by posting times that made the cut. Swimmers Hailey Staffen, Alexandria Brown, Brooke Houser, Ashlynn Clement, and McKenna Baker posted qualifying times. Connor Harlan led the Tigers on the cross country course this season qualifying for the MHSAA State Meet. Connor had a strong season and his hard work paid off with his times. Athletics has shifted to winter sports now and student-athletes are busy preparing and competing in a number of sports - Basketball, Bowling, Competitive Cheer, Swim, and Wrestling. Check in at the athletic department for all the latest updates and schedules for winter sports. Get involved and be part of Allegan Athletics. Go Tigers!
Page 8
The Allegan All Sports Boosters is starting a new program this year to promote volunteerism in youth. They are looking for 2-3 students in each grade 9-12 who are interested in being volunteer ambassadors. Their jobs would be volunteering and promoting volunteering in our community. Whether it be for the Boosters or another organization needing assistance, and to promote “More Than 20,” (students are required to do 20 hours of volunteering in order to graduate), volunteering as a youth is a great way to give back to your community. Students interested in getting into one of the spots this year can email a letter of interest to our Boosters president Mindi Smith at minime3674@ gmail.com. You do not need to be an athlete. Any student may apply. Student Ambassadors will receive a t-shirt to wear to represent themselves while volunteering.
Allegan Performing Arts “Notes” Encouraging the Love of the Performing Arts
Band Takes 9th Place in MCBA Competition
Thanks to a grant from the Educational Foundation of Allegan Public Schools, the The Allegan Tiger Marching Band finished their competition season on Saturday, 11/3, at Ford Field, scoring an 84.475 and AHS drama department was able to offer earning 9th place in Flight IV MCBA Championship Competition. a contest for a behind-the-scenes look at The final performance was superb. Congratulations on another Tarzan the Musical. Forty students from the elementary buildings won the chance fantastic season, Tiger Marching Band! to be part of the first-ever backstage experience for the production. Students were invited to come backstage prior to the last performance where they had a special choreography session, learned part of one of the songs, explored how to “fly,” applied makeup, and checked out the costumes. After their backstage exPictured above: Allegan Tiger March Band competing at the MCBA perience, the students enjoyed watching Championship at Ford Field. the amazing cast and crew perform. UPCOMING PERFORMANCES 12/13 @ 7 pm - Middle School Bands Holiday Concert 12/20 @ 7 pm - High School Music Department Holiday Concert* 2/2 - Solo and Ensemble Choir Festival at GVSU 2/11-15 - District Choral Festival *This concert will feature all High School Choirs and Band in a night of festive holiday cheer that you won’t want to miss!
Band Boosters The Allegan Band Boosters are a very active group. Come join the fun. Whether your band student is in 5thgrade or high school, we invite you to join the Band Boosters. There are many ways to be involved. Meetings are the third Monday of each month in the High School band room at 7 pm.
Pictured above: Winners of the backstage experience learning some dance moves with members of Tarzan.
Learning to Mime
1964 Allegan High School graduate Thomas Pierce and his son, Aaron, taught a mime workshop to students in Mrs. Sparks’ Introduction to Drama class. Tom is a professional mime and clown in the Atlanta, Georgia area and volunteered his time to teach the pantomime skills. Students had a great time learning to mime, juggle, and spin plates. Left: Tom teaching Lily Clark how to spin plates. Below left to right: Kassidy Bright, Chloe Schans, Thomas Pierce, Aaron Pierce, Angelica Zoch, and Lily Clark show off their skills.
Page 9
News from Dawson, North Ward... Getting Books in the Hands of Readers
These kindergarten students in Mrs. Rogers’s class at West Ward Elementary are all smiles for new books! In a recent Facebook campaign, many teachers across the district gained sponsors to purchase a new $1 book each month for every student in their classrooms. Pictured right are students in Mrs. Rogers’s classroom on the day they received their first book. There was an “enthusiastic buzz” in the room when the box was opened. The teachers and students across the district are extremely grateful to everyone who sponsored a student.
Third Graders Know What Side Their Bread is Buttered
Every Thursday is “Third Grade Bread Baking Day” at North Ward Elementary. Two bakers in Mrs. Winderbank-Lucas’s class follow the recipe to make bread in a bread machine. If they are successful, the whole class enjoys a slice of wonderful warm bread and butter. Learning never tasted so good!
Fifth Grade Camp
Allegan Fifth Graders escaped to the great outdoors during October for their annual trip to Fifth Grade Camp. Students from Dawson, North Ward, Pine Trails, and West Ward built shelters, learned about predator/prey relationships, dipped candles, canoed, danced, and shot arrows. It was a great time for team building, learning, and fun (and tired teachers)! The fifth-grade teachers would like to thank the PTOs from each of our elementary schools and the Education Foundation of APS for working so hard to provide much of the cost of this trip. It is really a lifelong memory for our students. THANK YOU! Pictured above: Pine Trails students “digging” into learning.
Learning About Weathering and Erosion
Third and fourth-graders in Ms. Wildeboer’s class at Pine Trails Elementary are studying erosion in science. Students dropped vinegar on limestone and observed the bubbles as an example of chemical erosion. Then they used a sandy ice cube as a glacier and observed the grooves left in clay as it scraped across the clay’s surface. Pictured right: Pine Trails students exploring weathering and erosion.
Page 10
Pine Trails and West Ward Elementaries Learning Across the Curriculum
Kindergarteners in Mrs. Norland’s class at Dawson recently frosted and decorated cookies as part of their letter “Ii” activities. During math, they assembled the cookies into an inchworm. Staff and students had fun checking to see if they were longer or shorter than the inchworm. All the students were shorter and all the staff members were longer. It made for a delicious treat! Pictured: Mrs. Shuper being measured.
North Ward Family Groups
What are STAR Leadership Family Groups? Well, North Ward decided to get all hands on deck for this one. All the students in the building have been divided into small multi-age groups. Every teacher, IA, ancillary staff, and the principal have a group they meet with on a monthly basis. The groups focus on building relationships within their family group, the 7 Habits of Happy Kids, and problem-solving issues that occur throughout the building, class, or playground. In November, they discussed friendships and had a slice of pie in their groups. The reaction of the students has been amazingly positive. They are enjoying being leaders, learners, and building relationships with students at every grade level.
Thanks, Vets!
Students around the district showed their appreciation for our Veterans. Our elementary buildings celebrated Veterans Day in a variety of ways. 4th and 5th-Graders at North Ward and West Ward attended a Flag History Presentation. Mrs. Null and Mr. Nash’s 2nd and 3rd-graders at West Ward wrote thank you letters to Veterans. The letters were then delivered to the VFW Post in Kalamazoo for their Spaghetti Dinner. Mrs. Hammon, Mr. Nash, and Mrs. Null’s classes learned about Veterans in our Neighborhoods (individuals we see every day who were in the Armed Services) by Mrs. Null, a 21-year-Veteran of the Navy who now teaches 2nd and 3rd Grade at West Ward. In addition to an assembly, third-graders at North Ward Elementary School were given limited supplies and asked to create a flag that could be raised and lowered. Kindergarteners at North Ward also discussed Veterans Day, watched videos about Vets, and made thank you cards. Kindergarteners and first-graders listened to Mr. Steward present information about his time in the Marines. Veteran and APS employee Brian Corbett discussed his time in the Navy with 5th-graders. 5th-graders also interviewed veterans and displayed what they learned on the bulletin board at North Ward. Dawson Elementary celebrated Veterans Day by honoring local veterans connected to the Dawson family. After welcoming them with coffee and donuts, Mrs. Shuper shared the importance of Veterans Day, as well as the esteemed value each United States veteran provides our country. Dawson students created symbols to show our gratitude for this fine group of individuals, along with a short video expressing why we hold them in such honor. Thank you to ALL of our veterans, both near and far! Page 11
Pictured above: North Ward students Hudson Vanderkooi and Rudi Ziemelis worked on their flag project together. Pictured below: West Ward teacher Mrs. Null shows students mementos from her time in the Navy.
Allegan Alternative High School AAHS Receives Community Support
Art Prize
Allegan Alternative High School students spent a day exploring the art and culture of downtown Grand Rapids at this year’s ArtPrize event. It is one of their favorite traditions!
KD Lake presented Alternative High School Principal Laura Feffer with a $2,500 check from Modern Woodman. Mrs. Feffer said, “Not only will these funds have an immediate impact on the opportunities we can provide our students, but also sends them a message that their community believes in them and supports their endeavors.” Thank you, KD Lake and Modern Woodman!
Students Receive Soft Skills Training
Local employers have told school personnel how valuable “soft skills” are for successful, long-term employment and beyond. Soft skills include items such as interacting with the public, how to talk to your boss and coworkers, collaboration, and much more. As such, students at Allegan Alternative engage in soft skills curriculum on a weekly basis including lesson plans on Accountability, Communication, Collaboration, and Citizenship. While learning about Communication, students learned how to write a professional email and practiced by corresponding with a community member. Women Who Care member Dee Dee Hanson came to meet the students who wrote to her. They have agreed to continue to communicate through- Left to right: Noah Riddell, Dee Dee Hanson, out the year. Darell Williams, Kass McElwee Page 12
Middle School Robotics Team Competes
Allegan Public Schools 2018-19 Play-n-Learn Groups (for children age 0-5 and their parents) Tuesday, September 18 – West Ward (6-7 pm) Tuesday, October 16 – North Ward (6-7 pm) Wednesday, November 7 – West Ward (6-7 pm) Tuesday, December 18 - Dawson (6-7 pm) Tuesday, January 15 – West Ward (6-7 pm) Tuesday, February 19 – North Ward (6-7 pm) Tuesday, March 5 – West Ward (6-7 pm) Tuesday, March 19 – Dawson (6-7 pm) Tuesday, April 16 – Pine Trails (6-7 pm) Tuesday, May 7 - West Ward (6-7 pm) Tuesday, May 21 – West Ward (6-7 pm) Tuesday, June 4 - West Ward (6-7 pm) *Classroom to be announced For more info, contact the APS/Great Start Family Coach:
Amy Rogers (269) 720-9225 arogers@alleganps.org
Partially funded by the Michigan Department of Education.
With the help of the community and others who donated to DonorsChoose.org or made other donations, the middle school was able to field two teams for the competitions this year. They were able to purchase a playing field through DonorsChoose. The players and coaches would like to thank everyone for the help funding this program. Without community support, these experiences would not be possible. The students worked hard. They recently participated in a competition in Kentwood. During the competition, the team members displayed critical thinking, gracious professionalism, problem-solving, and teamwork. Pictured right: Members of the Robotics Team with Coach Davis.
TrebleMakers Youth Choir is off to a great start. Pictured are the 4th and 5th-grade TrebleMakers at North Ward Elementary rehearsing. Stay tuned for exciting updates and National Anthem performance of this over 100 combined member chorus!
Learn More, Earn More!
To All Adults Who Have Not Completed Their High School Education Come back now to complete your GED or High School diploma . . . AND start your new career! Allegan Online / Adult Education is enrolling now and offering: ● FREE GED Classes ● FREE GED Testing - Saving $174 ● FREE Diploma Classes ● FREE Career Readiness Program Enroll in our GED or High School Diploma classes and at the same time take welding, CNA, machine shop with blueprint reading, or construction classes. You can graduate with a GED or Diploma and a Certificate in one of these areas. Employers are looking for workers in these high demand jobs. We can help you prepare and get that higher paying job! We offer individualized instruction, and flexible hours to meet your needs. Enroll today! Enrollment Hours: Mon. & Wed. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. / Tue. & Thurs. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. / Fri. 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Location: Allegan Public Schools Administration Building Lower Level, 550 Fifth Street, Allegan, MI 49010 Contact: 269-673-5431 Sue Chappell x3054 schappell@alleganps.org Page 13
Putting the “fun” in Fundraising West Ward Parent-Teacher Organization’s second annual Walk-a-thon was October 19. Students collected donations to earn prizes including a West Ward bundle ($25), T-shirt ($50), pool party ($100), movie with principal Mrs. Cassar at the Performing Arts Center ($150), and a chance to dunk Mrs. Cassar in a dunk tank ($200). A total of $6,916.47 in pledges was collected by 70 students. Twelve of those students earned the dunk tank prize. Top fundraisers in the school were Credence Miling with $354, Patrick Ramaker with $280, and Tyeson Massey-El with $265. A number of community businesses also sponsored the event which included laps around the school grounds, music, and snacks in addition to the dunk tank ceremony. Proceeds will fund family events, school assemblies, field trips, teacher stipends, and more.
Pictured left: Addy Fales, Ava Earl, and Hanna Kievit showing their Tiger spirit during West Ward’s Walk-athon.
Dawson Elementary hosted their Walk-a-thon on October 11. Many community members also walked with the students. Law enforcement officers, firefighters, high school athletes, the Middle School Tigers Unite Club, APS employees including Superintendent Harness, and military service members all joined in walking or running around the building. Students, along with community donations, raised over $6,000 for the PTO. As a reward, Mrs. Shuper spent the night on the roof on October 16. While on the roof, she had dinner delivered via a bucket and read a bedtime story to Facebook viewers. The community support for both events was amazing.
Pictured top right: Mrs. Shuper reading a bedtime story on the roof of Dawson. Right: Local law enforcement officers “walking a beat.” Pictured above: Patrick Ramaker walks away happy after dunking Mrs. Cassar.
L.E. White Middle School Student Council sends out a big THANK YOU to all students, parents, and community members who participated in this year’s fundraiser. Every single classroom had students contribute. Congratulations to Ms. Storbeck’s class who averaged $99 per student and won the doughnut party 1st hour. The middle school also had 5 other classrooms that really excelled by averaging above $45 per student (Ms. Andrysiak, Ms. Fletcher, Ms. Schalk, Mr. Weber, and Mr. Zimmer) and student council rewarded them for their hard work. They met their school-wide goal and as a result, L.E. White students will be rewarded with a Black Light Party. Finally, the best news is, because of the success of the fundraiser, student work area furniture will be added throughout the hallways! Pictured above: Members of the L.E. White Once again – a big thank you for helping make our school a better Student Council place for students! Page 14
Allegan Aquatic Center
Memberships, Registration and Information at WWW.ALLEGANAQUATICS.COM New Program!!!!
Warm Water Fitness
Includes resistance walking and abbreviated lap swim Mon-Thu 7-8:30pm
ALLEGAN SWIM SCHOOL
Lifeguard Certification
Proud Provider of SwimAmerica Swimming Lessons
Dec 26-28, Apr 19-21
WE ARE HIRING: We help build comfort and compeAdult Supervisors and School-Age tency in and around the water. Lifeguards. Free training for adults! Contact cmadill@alleganps.org
POOL RENTAL & PARTIES
Spots are filling fast!
During open swim: Your group enter for free. Full use of the Party Room. <15 swimmers 16-30 swimmers
$45 $60
For Private Pool Rentals: Both pools + Party Room Rent the AquaGlide Course for an additional $50!
<10 swimmers $50/ hour 11-30 swimmers $75/ hour More information? Look under the programs tab on our website or Call: 269-673-7002 x5504 Email: skeen@alleganps.org
COACHED ADULT SWIMMING (MASTERS) Triathlete? Swimmer? Not a swimmer, but want to learn? Tue and Thur Morning 5:30 - 6:30 am Interested? Contact cmadill@alleganps.org
Re-cert Class: Dec 16, Mar 3, Apr 14 Contact: cmadill@alleganps.org
OPEN SWIM
One-day Family Pass $10.00 AquaGlide Wristband $1.00
AQUAGLIDE Inflatable Obstacle Course
Run the Course @ Open Swim or Rent It for your Private Party
Next Classes–
Group Lessons (ages 4 and up): Jan 2019-May 2019 5:45-6:15 pm or 6:30-7:00 pm Monday and Thursday Parent/ Child Lessons (up to age 3) January 2019-May 2019
5pm-5:30pm
Register Online
Click the “Allegan Swim School” tab Winter lessons:
COMPETITIVE SWIM– Winter season
Dec 3-Feb 16
ATAC is competitive swimming & diving for those ages 6-17. Lessons level 6 through advanced are welcome. Swim faster with friends! Orange (novice competitor)- For ag-
Saturday Sunday
12:00-2:00 pm 1:00-3:00 pm
LAP SWIM Morning: M-F Noon: M-F
6:30 –7:30 am 12-1 pm
FAMILY FUN TIME AT THE POOL Tue., Wed., Thur.: 11 am - 12 pm *Great for families with young children
SENIOR CITIZEN SWIM FREE
Enjoy using our warm water Leisure Pool, walk in entry. Mon. & Fri: 11 am-12 pm Tue.: 3:00-4:00 pm
AQUA FITNESS
es 6-11, beginning level swimmers who are M-W: 4-5 pm; Th– 12:15working on basic swimming skills 1:15 pm; Sat 10:30-
Black (intermediate)- For ages 8-13,
swimmers with competitive experience who are looking to improve their skills.
Gold (advanced)- For ages 10U who are looking to develop to their full potential. No Practice or Competition requirements! Registration online under Tigershark Aquatics tab.
Page 15
11:30 am *Our most popular class!
Program Pricing Same for All Programs (not Zumba) Adults (+1 free pre-K child): $3 School Age / Senior: $2 Pre-K Child (additional): $1 Monthly Pass (any program): $30
FROM: Allegan Public Schools 550 Fifth Street Allegan, MI 49010
ECRWS TO: Current Resident Allegan, MI 49010
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID PERMIT #192
No person shall, on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, political belief, disability, handicap, or any other legally protected characteristic be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any education program or activity, or in employment, through Allegan Public Schools. Inquiries or complaints should be directed to the Superintendent of Schools, 550 Fifth Street, Allegan, MI 49010 (phone 269-673-5431).
Follow Allegan Public Schools on
SOCIAL MEDIA!
Allegan Public Schools App – Use the link to download the app: https://goo.gl/L1N4yp *One location for everything APS - calendars, lunch menus, flyers, and more!
Text @alleganp to 81010
*notices about snow days, cancellations, and other important information
facebook.com/alleganps
@alleganps @alleganps
Jazz it up!
Dawson and North Ward are looking for snare drums and high hat cymbals for their Music rooms. These instruments would really enhance their sound when playing jazz and rock n’ roll. Contact Kim Licavoli at klicavoli@alleganps.org or 673-6925 ext. 3384 if you can help.
Tigers Den Daycare & Preschool
Tigers Den is an Allegan Public School-sponsored preschool and daycare program. Preschool programs for 3-and 4-year-olds; Daycare runs during the day for 3-4-year-olds and before and after school for all schoolaged children. Call for more information: Preschool: Judi McCall (269) 673-7002, ext. 3148 jmccall@alleganps.org
Follow along to get updates from Allegan Public Schools! #alleganpspride
Can You Help?
Allegan Alternative High School has several families who we are hoping can be “adopted” for the holiday season. AAHS is seeking community partners who might be willing to sponsor a family and provide gift cards or other holiday needs. Thank you for opening your heart! Please reach out to Principal Laura Feffer at 269-673-5433 or lfeffer@alleganps.org.
Daycare: Sara Phillips (269) 673-5379, ext. 3135 sphillips@alleganps.org