"Our Schools News" - June 2014 issue

June 28, 2014 Allegan Public Schools - “Striving for Excellence”

www.alleganpublicschools.org

“Outstanding People For Education” Awards

Devyn Morris, Christina Madison, Buzzy Young

Inside this issue:

This year’s recipients of the Allegan County School Boards’ Association “Outstanding People for Education” award from Allegan Public Schools were: Devyn Morris (performing arts manager, and assistant director and costume designer for AHS plays and musicals), Christina Madison (parent volunteer from L.E.White Middle School), and Howard “Buzzy” Young (mail courier and maintenance man for the district). These three were recognized by the APS staff at the end-of-year breakfast on June 11, and they received their awards at a banquet later that evening!

- School Bell Award (Page 3) - Athletic Information (Page 10) - Registering your Kindergartner (Page 16)

- Technology Update (Page 4) - Band and Choir News (Page 9) - Message from the Superintendent (Page 3)

Top Ten

Allegan High School named its top ten academic students at graduation commencement ceremonies held May 29, 2014.

In addition to the “top ten” students pictured, two additional students (Travis Hunziker and Abigail Dekkinga) graduated with high honors (over 4.0 gpa) and 31 students graduated with honors (3.5 or above). Congrats to the Class of 2014!

Graduating with High Honors, the Top Ten (left to right, front row): Jacob Clark, Kylie DeKryger, Serena Luke, Brad Gillette, Sam Armintrout. Back row: Hunter Richards, Allie Richlich-Resendiz, Hailee Madalinski, Siera Ruffer, Marisa Henrickson.

IMPORTANT – KEEP NEAR YOUR PHONE

Allegan Public Schools Telephone Numbers

Administration Office.................................... 673-5431 Kevin Harness (superintendent) Bill Hammer (director of operations) Cheryl-Marie Manson (director of instruction) George Mohr (state and federal programs) Allegan High School .................................... 673-7002 Jim Mallard, Ron Orr (principals) L.E. White Middle School............................. 673-2241 James Antoine, Jaym Abraham (principals) Dawson Elementary....................................... 673-6925 Joe James (principal) North Ward Elementary................................. 673-6003 Bill Hammer (principal) Pine Trails Elementary................................... 673-5379 Dave Kanine (principal) West Ward Elementary................................... 673-7000 Harry Dalm (principal) Allegan Alternative High & Adult Ed............ 673-5433 Laura Feffer (principal) Special Education........................................... 673-5431 Cheryl-Marie Manson (director) Dann Perono (assistant) Athletic Office................................................ 673-7002 Matthew Stofer (director) Recreation Department.................................. 673-7002 Trevor Horwath (rec.), Andrea Murphy (pool) Maintenance Department............................... 673-2085 George Zeock (supervisors) Transportation Department........................... 673-2203 Darrell Stoughton (supervisor) Food Service ............................................... 673-7002 Barb Elenbaas (supervisor) ext. 5517

Ballot Proposal -Operating Millage Renewal Allegan Public Schools will be asking voters for a renewal of the authorized millage rate of 18 mills on all non-homestead property in the district. This is a renewal, not a millage increase, and it will NOT affect property taxes on voters’ principal residences. But it will continue to generate over $3 million for the district, if approved.

The election takes place along with the Primary Election on Tuesday, August 5, 2014. Voting takes place at your City or Township Hall and polls are open from 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. If you have any questions about this millage renewal ballot issue, please contact Superintendent Kevin Harness at (269) 673-5431.

5K run and 1-Mile Kids’ Fun Run Saturday, August 16, 2014 at 555 Linn Street, Allegan

Sponsored by:

Allegan General Hospital Foundation

Allegan Public Schools and

Allegan Tigershark Aquatic Club For information, visit stridesforhealth.com or contact Bill Hammer at (269) 673-5431, ext. 3003

School Web page: www.alleganpublicschools.org

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETINGS:

“Tuesday’s Night Out”

July 14, 2014 (6:00 p.m.) Organizational Meeting

Friday, July 18, 2014 6 pm at the Lynx Golf Course (900 Lincoln Road, Otsego)

Cocktail Reception, Dinner, keynote with Capt.

Montalvan and “Tuesday” (Proceeds benefit Forever Curious Children’s Museum)

THE BOARD MEETING SCHEDULE FOR 2014-15 WILL BE DETERMINED AT THIS ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING. -- All regular meetings scheduled for the 2nd Monday of each month.

-- Regular meetings during school year are scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m.

-- Regular meetings during the summer (June, July, Aug.) begin at 6:00 p.m.

-- All meetings to be held at the Allegan Public Schools’ Administration Building, 550 Fifth Street, Allegan MI 49010.

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 Joni VanNieuwenhuyzen, editor, at 673-5431 or email: jonivan@alleganps.org Page 2

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. . . the POWER of Education (A message from the superintendent of schools)

Kevin Harness Superintendent

End of another School Year – Or is it?

Once again we have wrapped up another school year with a flurry of activities and accolades. I would like to add my congratulations to all of the graduates of the class of 2014, to our retirees, and to all of the award winners that were announced at the end of the year.

Although there is a collective sigh of relief from staff, students, and parents at the end of each school year, you might be surprised at how short-lived that “summer vacation” really is!

Already, there are signs of activity throughout our district that might go unnoticed to the untrained eye (or ear)…. But a closer look will reveal sights and sounds that give away the fact that Allegan Public Schools is still abuzz with activity!

Next year’s sports teams are already working out, conditioning, and attending various camps to hone their skills. Our marching band is already practicing music and footwork for their upcoming fall marching band show. Our drama department is already hard at work rehearsing for the upcoming musical performance of Shrek in the fall. Many of our younger students are participating in activities sponsored by our Recreation Department -- learning swim strokes in our pool or learning about teamwork by playing t-ball. Nearly 30 youngsters are participating in “Summer Buddies” enrichment program. Our maintenance and custodial staff are just beginning their summer clean-up process which literally takes all summer to prepare the classrooms, hallways, and gymnasiums for September. Bus mechanics are working on keeping those big, yellow machines in top repair. Administrators are busy with scheduling, ordering, and planning for next year’s students, and many of our principals and teachers are attending the “Midwest Brain and Learning Institute” in Holland this week to keep up to date with latest research. In some buildings, summer school and online classes are taking place to help students “catch up” on lost credits. And by far our busiest group this summer is our teachers! As you might have heard, APS teachers at all levels will be implementing new curricula and teaching strategies to utilize the computing devices that all students will have access to in the fall! This is a very exciting time for our teachers and students. With various levels of technology skill and knowledge, our staff is eager to learn new ways to engage students by taking advantage of the technology tools made possible with the recent bond issue. Over 50 teachers attended Tech Camp the day after school was out, and many more sessions are being offered throughout the summer.

As you can see, summer vacation is not a time for ALL to rest . . .but I hope you are enjoying at least some lazy, hazy, (if not crazy) days of summer!

See page 4 for more information about the plan for “Unleashing” the power of technology at Allegan Schools!

School Bell Award 2014

Art Osman

Allegan Public School’s annual SCHOOL BELL AWARD is a prestigious award that goes to a person or group that goes “above and beyond” in service to our district! This year, two awards were given -- one to Art Osman, who volunteers at Pine Trails Elementary on a daily basis (in the kindergarten room and as a math tutor) and has made several cash donations; and one to the Congregational Church Weekend Food Pack Ministry, who delivered over 250 food packs (9,070 total) to needy students every Friday!

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Volunteers from the Weekend Food Pack Ministry (left to right) Shirley Ross, Joan Simmons, Lydia Walsh (coordinator), Jan Lovejoy, Sue Lucas

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Salmon Study The Ecology class at Allegan High School experienced a bittersweet “release” of the salmon they have been watching develop since November when their eggs hatched in their classroom. Science teacher, Mrs. Eichbauer took a course at the Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery in Mattawan, where she learned about the salmon raising project. The Chinook Salmon “smolt” were released near the Allegan Dam, an approved DNR release site, and they will likely swim all the way to Lake Michigan. However, they will return to this area to spawn! The Ecology class at AHS participates in lots of hands-on experiments and outdoor real-life excursions, After making sure the water temperature in the including several field trips to study river fish buckets is nearly the same as in the river, stu- and lake ecosystems. dents carefully release the smolt into the water.

Jake Montoy and Kelly Haughn were two students who spent lots of extra time on this project (coming in after school and on weekends to clean the fish tank, etc.)

Coming to our own Allegan Performing Arts Center November 13-15 SAVE THE DATE! SAVE THE DATE! SAVE THE DATE!

Students who completed cooking class (back row): Kennedy DeBree, Raegin Cherry, Luke Kennedy, Enzo Giovannucci, Kayla Cabrera, and (front row) Lydia Lucas, Hannah Corbett, and Alexis Oberthaler.

What’s Cookin’?

14 students from North Ward Elementary participated in a cooking class where they learned basic cooking skills. Chef Stephanie Hughes from Kalamazoo volunteered her time teaching two-hour sessions for eight weeks at the L.E.White Middle School in the home-ec classroom. The students learned how to use a knife properly, other basic tools of the kitchen, how to choose healthy foods from all food groups, along with creating delicious meals and snacks from simple recipes. Students made lasagna, pizza, smoothies, parfaits, and other favorites. Cooking class was definitely a hit! And efforts are being made to expand the amount of cooking classes offered and invite all the elementary schools in Allegan for the 2014-15 school year.

Watch for more information about this to come in the fall.

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Allegan High School Writing Awards Under the tutelage of English teacher Nancy Hascall, many AHS students have entered writing contests, been published, and won awards for their creative works. This page contains a few of those award winners!

Playwrights Siera Ruffer and Troy Clawson were selected to have their one-act plays performed on stage by the Allegan Community Players!

Brittany Haluch, Adam Miller, Dana Shek, Troy Clawson, and Marisa Henrickson were WINNERS in the Kalamazoo “Poems That Ate Our Ears” contest!

Kathryn Stanloski, Jonah Pfau, Troy Clawson, and Sawyer Johnson were invited to attend a creative writing workshop at WMU as winners of the Michigan Youth Arts Festival awards.

Ireland Armintrout, Alana Kugelard, and Emma Resendiz were three of the semifinalists from AHS in the “Letters About Literature” contest. Marisa Henrickson, Hunter Richards, and Rachael Vogelwede were also semi-finalists. And Kate Stanloski was a FINALIST!

Other Awards: Bree Katje was a finalist in the Gerald R. Ford Essay Challenge. Middle School student Sarah Lane, pictured with her teacher Ms. Hellman, was a semifinalist in that same contest.

Tiger Tales Victors, 2014

Cover 1st: Carlie VanKlompenberg 2nd: Miryssa Hill 3rd: Taylor Orr Poetry 1st: Marisa Henrickson, Vacancies, Adieu, Mediocrity, The Black Cat, Eve 2nd: Dana Shek, Dysfunctional 3rd: Hunter Richards, Past Pastures, No Longer Constricted Essay 1st: Kylie DeKryger (2 pieces), Supergrandma; Literary Lessons 2nd: Marisa Henrickson, Courage 3rd: Abigail Welsh, Declawing: An Unnecessary Evil Personal Narrative 1st: Kate Stanloski, A Foothold in Divine Terrain 2nd: Sadie Clark, Tangled 3rd: Karissa Barnes, Unexpected Short Story 1st: Karissa Barnes, Delicious Francine 2nd: Michaela Burton, Perfection 3rd: Troy Clawson, Dreams of a Guillotine

Marisa Henrickson - won the American Chemical Society’s Illustrated Poem Contest with a poem created in honor of Earth Day. She also took 3rd place in the FRA Essay Contest with the essay “The Bill of Rights and Me” Alexandria Archer - was a top-ten finalist in the Meijer “Great Choices” PSA contest. Her public service announcement was about water conservation. Sawyer Johnson - was selected to work on an Earth Day video project at Perrigo Corp. and his poem “Small Town, BIG Impact,” was used in their promotion.

“Cub Tales”

The Middle School version of Tiger Tales included many quality writing pieces. Judged by high school students, the first place winners are listed below in each category: Personal Narrative - Jade Knarian (untitled) Poetry - Miller Johnson (Heroes, The Great Game) Short Story - Josie Sherwood (Caged) See the APS Facebook Page for more winners!

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Marisa Henrickson, Kate Stanloski, and Troy Clawson were finalists in the Albion College Charles Crupi Poetry Contest. Kate took 3rd place and earned $100!

Brittany Haluch’s personal narrative, “A FlashThrough Time,” earned top ten honors in Creative Communication’s international writing competition.

Teachers Donate over $9000 in Scholarships

The Allegan Education Association Scholarship Foundation this year awarded (6) $1,000 college scholarships to seniors Travis Hunziker, Siera Ruffer, Hunter Richards, Kylie DeKryger, Becky Fletcher, and Ben Hillard. They also donated $3,000 to help another 50 students in grades K-8 attend summer camps and enrichment programs. Through payroll deduction, APS staff contributes over $7,000 per year, for a total of $165,000 in educational scholarships in the past 17 years!

Eleanor Nielsen 1935-2014

Mock Tragedy

Allegan High School students witnessed a mock accident scenario that helped remind them about the seriousness of drinking and driving. A big THANKYOU to local Police and Fire Departments, and other community members and staff who helped get this important message out to students.

Eleanor Nielsen passed away June 18, 2014. She was a retiree of Allegan Public Schools after 35 years of service as an Instructional Assistant, mostly in the Young 5’s. Her husband, Al, was our head bus mechanic for many years before his retirement. Eleanor served as our school district’s Elections Chairperson for decades and most recently she was the coordinator for the Lifelong Learners senior citizen group. She was a Township official, a County Commissioner, served on the Board of Directors for ACRDC and was a member of the United Methodist Church in Allegan. She was also a 4-H leader and served on the board at Camp Kidwell. Our community has lost a true servant, and our district has lost an angel...

Services will be held July 12 at 10 a.m. at the United Methodist Church. Visitation is July 11 from 6-8 p.m. at Gorden Funeral Residence.

WHAT STUCK WITH ME?

“Techno” Scavenger Hunt

3rd grade students at Pine Trails Elementary heard a presentation from “Project LEAN”.

Ms. Sturman, a Nutrution Educator, taught West Ward students a lesson about grapes and raisins, then in Mrs. Sullivan’s asked the students to write down the ideas 2nd grade used that “stuck with them”and allowed them to iPads to conduct stick the post-it notes all over their teachers, a “Technology Mrs. Wildeboer and Mrs. Penny. Here are Scavenger Hunt” just a few of the concepts that “stuck” with throughout the the students: building. The iPads 1) Most of the raisins sold in the U.S. are were obtained by grown in California. donations from Kaitlyn Szczepanski, Blaine Mrs. Wildeboer is “stuck” with notes! 2) Raisins “bake” in the sun for about 2-3 family and friends weeks.

Hunter, and Kenna Johnson get through the Donors’ 3) It takes about 4.5 pounds of fresh grapes to make one pound of raisins. ready to scan some QR codes with their iPad! Choose website.

4) Raisins are rich in iron, calcium, and fiber!

212 Degrees:

March HS Students of the Month

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Front row: Jacob Sturman, Devon Frazee, Madelynn Spreitzer, Skylar Sanders, Livia Christman, Cortnie Cook, Bryce Eigsti, Chelsey Haas, Adam Miller, Shubham Singh.

Back Row: Derek Storey, Jonah Pfau, Tyler Miles, Davynn Schneider, Sawyer Johnson, Austin Grochowalski, Troy Clawson, Sam Veining, Brandon Boysen, Devon Willis, Devon Moss.

Science Olympiad

Middle School Team

Both the High School and Middle School Science Olympiad Teams placed 5th at the Regional Competiton at WMU in March. On the HS team, which competed against 12 teams total, EVERY team member earned at least one medal or ribbon! Highlights of the Middle School event included Olivia Duron and Angelica Zoch (1st place in Sounds of Music), Bryan Andrews and Drew VerHoeven (2nd place in Robocross), and 3rd place awards to: Megan Collins and Lily Ehn (Anatomy), Morgan Sturman and Lily Ehn (Write It-Do It), Noah Festerling and Andrew Langschied (Entomoloogy), Morgan Sturman and Emma Ruga (Rocks and Minerals).

High School Team

Top placings from the high school team included: John Barber and Connor Mendell (2nd place in Compound Machines), Sam Croteau and Ben Andrews (2nd place in the Bungee Drop), and Hunter Richards and Marisa Henrickson (3rd place in both Technical Problem Solving and WriteIt/Do It) and John Barber and Julie Isola (3rd place in the Scrambler Vehicle).

Way to go, Tiger Science!!!!!!!!

Pine Trails 3rd graders traveled to the Grand Rapids Public Museum where they learned about Michigan history, played with the Lego exhibit, and saw animatronic dinosaurs.

Field Trips

Educational AND Fun!

The Alternative High School’s first ever Spanish class visited the Cancun Mexican Restaurant in Paw Paw, as well as the El Supermercado authentic market in Hartford.

The High School French Club traveled to Chicago in April to enjoy a French meal, the Chicago Institute of Arts, and a walk through Millennium Park.

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Allegan Band “Notes”

State Festival: Congrats to the high school symphonic band for earning all 1’s at the MSBOA State Band Festival at Otsego High School on April 24!

Band Camp - The weeks of July 21 and July 28!

State Solo & Ensemble Results 2014 (High School Band) Receiving I’s (Superior Ratings): Derek Storey (alto sax solo, proficiency 3) Tyler Miles (trumpet solo, proficiency 1) Abby Knuckles (flute solo) Tyla Swinehart/Wren Ashley (flute duet)

Derek Storey performs saxophone solo at recent board meeting where the band was recognized for their outstanding season.

Receiving II’s (Excellent Ratings): Derek Storey, Kylie DeKryger, Dylan Hendrickson, Quinten Bader (sax quartet) Maya Geiselhart (piano solo) Nicole Kling (piano solo, proficiency 1) Interested in joining band? - Its NOT too late to join!!! Contact Andrea Mack at (616) 309-8888 or amack@alleganps.org

State Choral Festival

Congrats to both treble and chamber choirs on their outstanding performances at State Choral Festival. Both groups received “excellent” ratings at State!

Drum Majors for the 2014 marching season: Tyler Miles, Madeline Miller, Karlie Wells, and Cortnie Cook.

Middle School State Solo & Ensemble Results: Division I - Superior ratings: Flute Solo- Emerald Dewey Flute Duet- Emerald Dewey, Hannah Meiser Flute Duet - Alesandra Garcia, Maddy Waite Flute Duet- Eliza Spritzer, Emali Steward Trumpet Solo - Jacob Pierce Snare Solo - CJ Chenard Snare Solo - Ezra Butcher Snare Solo - Garrett Fairbanks Division II - Excellent ratings: Woodwind Quartet - Eliza Spritzer, Emali Steward, Taisjia Edwards, Kelsey Clark Flute Solo - Kavan Withrow Brass Trio- Jacob Pierce, Andrew Teachout, Bryan Andrews Woodwind Duet - Bethann Prolo, Michael Otto Flute Solo- Emali Steward Flute Solo - Alesandra Garcia Trumpet Duet - Sophie Johnson and Skylar Zuverink Clarinet Solo- Kelsey Clark

The Women of Chamber Choir received “excellent” ratings at State Festival.

State Solo & Ensemble

The following students received ‘excellent” ratings at State S&E this year: Soloists included McKennah Heckman, Bri Price, Kate Stanloski, Zeke Butcher and the duet of Emma Kasprzyk & Kate Stanloski; and the Women of Chamber members including Aly Bazan, Sadie Clark, Adarae Davihizar, Abbey Dekkinga, McKennah Heckman, Emma Kasprzyk, Jordan Norman, Brianna Price, Madelyn Smith, Madelynn Spreitzer, Kate Stanloski, Mackenzie Sturman, & Caroline Wolfe.

Middle School Honors Choir

Congrats to the MS Honors Choir for receiving the highest rating possible a “Superior” at the MSVMA Solo & Ensemble........

AMAZING!!!!!!! Honors Choir members included Bryanna Belden, Ezra Butcher, Ashlyn Clement, Josh Curtis, Ella Gillies, MacKenzie Grandmason, Dontae Havinga-Hamilton, Delaney Heckman, Logan Huggins, Eli Leece, Gabby Mckee, Erin Milbocker, Michaela Nichols, Karmind Nordblom, Kasie Poelman, Brooklyn Reed, Bailey Weaver, Alexis Wells, Sophia Whitlock, & Angelica Zoch.

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Allegan Tiger Athletics By: Matt Stofer, Athletic Director

TIGERS ATHLETICS: TWO ANNOUNCEMENTS HIGHLIGHT THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR The Athletic Department is excited to provide updates on two announcements that will start with the 2014-15 school year -- $1.00 Student pre-sale tickets, and the return of busing for away events.

Meet the Coach

Allegan High School has a new head football coach. Malachi Mishler (known as “Mac”) will take on coaching duties this summer and will be teaching social studies at Allegan High School in the fall. Coming from Wisconsin Dells High School, with a Bachelor’s Degree from Ferris State University, he was also the defensive coordinator for the semi-pro team, the Madison Mustangs. APS welcomes Coach Mac!

Malachi Mishler

$1.00 STUDENT TICKETS: Starting Monday, August 18th and throughout the school year, students will be able to purchase tickets for any home High School or Middle School athletic event for $1.00 when purchased in advance at any elementary, middle or high school office during the school day. Please note student tickets will be $5.00 when purchased at the game. Each school will be setting pre-sale ticket times during the day for students to take advantage of these great savings. $1.00 student tickets will be a different ticket than the $5.00 tickets sold at the game.

BUSING FOR AWAY EVENTS: Starting this fall, team busing will be provided for all middle school athletic events and selected high school athletic events. Coaches will provide information at parent meetings before the seasons start as some trips (ex: Plainwell & Otsego) will provide transportation one-way, to the game only, and extended trips (ex: Sturgis & Three Rivers) will provide two-way transportation.

All middle school teams will have at least transportation TO games with two-way transportation provided for extended trips while high school teams will have selected trips with transportation provided.

SPORTS PHYSICALS: Remember--all student-athletes (high school and middle school) must have a sports physical (done after April 15, 2014) turned into the hgh school office before starting a sport in August. We’ll have more information on the student tickets and athletic busing as August approaches at www.alleganathletics.com where you can also sign up for Twitter and Facebook alerts.

Go Tigers!

Front row (left to right): Carlie VanKlompenberg, Taylor Orr, Emmarie Gorby, Alyssa Hopkins, Tarah Brennan, Blake Day, Abbey Dekkinga. Back row: Coach Aldrich, Adrian Rizquallah, Katelyn Clark, Coach Gilligan, Reannon Rizquallah, Livia Christman, Carly Wells, Coach Conrad.

Tennis Tradition Continues

The 2014 women’s tennis team continued their winning ways, taking championship honors in the Wolverine Conference, the MHSAA District and Regional Tournaments, and placing 4th in Division III at the State Tournament! Coached

by Jen Aldrich and Jen Conrad, the team also had the distinction of being named a Division III All-Academic Tennis Team for 2014. In addition, 6 team members were voted All-State (First Team): Livia Christman, Abbey Dekkinga, Emmarie Gorby, Blake Day, Taylor Orr, and Carlie VanKlompenberg.

C.O.D.E. Orange Returns!

Purchase your t-shirt at ACE Hardware, “Tri’d n True” Village Market, or Allegan Triathlon Springrove Variety for only $10 and be part July 22 of the COMMUNITY at Littlejohn Park ON DECK for EDUCATION. The game www.triallegan.com is October 10.

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8th Grade Presidential Award To achieve this award, students must maintain a career middle school grade point average of 3.8 or higher and have scored in the 85th percentile or better on the “Explore” test.

“Presidential Award” winners (alphabetically): Matilda Allen, Jacob Anoskey, Gabriel Francisco, BrookAnn Hitchcock, Logan Huggins, Miller Johnson, Danny Looman, Jordyn Maka, Megan Mallory, Delanie Nahikian, Karmind Nordblom, John Simmons, Matthew Spreitzer, Caley TerAvest, (Trevor Jaster and James Kingsley earned outstanding achievement honors)

8th Grade Principal’s Award These students exhibited excellent classroom conduct and good citznship for all three years of their middle school career!

Principal’s Award Winners (alphabetically): Austin Adams, Matilda Allen, Jacob Anoskey, Alex Babbitt, Mollie Babbitt, Kierstin Baes, Bryanna Belden,, Brooke Boodt, Corbin Brann, Ryan Bush, Kaitlyn Busler, Jacob Byron, Zachary Chrispell, Marshell Cizauskas, Matthew Cogar, Gage Commissaris, Alli Dangremond, Arianna Davis, Brandon Day, Emerald Dewey, Derek Dickinson, Kaitlyn Doolittle, Olivia Duron, Travis Farmer, Lauren Ferris, Persefanie Finch, Gabriel Francisco, Mackenzie Frye, Makenzie Green, Jacqueline Hall, Ashley Haluch, Kali Hardy, Mary Hartman, Dontae Havinga Hamilton, Anna Hestera, Jacelyn Hinesley, BrookAnn Hitchcock, Christopher Hitchcock, Leia Holubar, Kylee Hough, Miller Johnson, Jade Knarian, Joseph LaJoice, Peyton Lake, Shayne Lockwood, Thomas Loftus, Danny Looman, Jessica Lumbard, Jordyn Maka, Megan Mallory, Abigail Mansfield, Brittney McCash, Makayla McKinley, Hannah Meiser, Landon Mielke, Erin Milbocker, Alexis Miller, Sidney Modad, Jeremy Montoy, Delanie Nahikian, Ashley Nichols, MacKenzie Nichols, Michael Otto, Weston Rife, Samuel Rocha, Nicholas Sagodic, Bethany Schafer, John Simmons, Amanda Snyder, Caley TerAvest, Kaylana Terpstra, Caitlynn Thomson, Bailey Weaver, Damyon Wedge, Kaitlyn Whaley, Joshua White, Garret Zeran.

A spicy hot chocolate toast!

6th grade students in Ms. Hellmann’s Social Studies class tried Mayan hot chocolate flavored with spices, such as pepper and cinnamon, after reading about how the Latin Americans flavored their cacao. The hot chocolate came from Mugshots in downtown Allegan!

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Allegan Students Perform Community Service

Planting Pumpkins

Helping Mrs. Giovannucci in the North Ward garden are 2nd graders Joe Wallington, Carson Borst, Conner Plumley, and Carson Wagner.

St. Jude Mathathon

Students at West Ward Elementary raised $1,540 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by participating in a Math-a-Thon this spring. Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Rogers, who has been coordinating this fundraiser for 14 years, said that over the past 23 years, West Ward students have raised $56,084 for this cause!

North Ward Elementary now has a community garden, and students got to help plant pumpkin seeds on the last day of school. Pictured is parent helper Tina Giovannucci, who along with parent Mindy Laarman, facilitated the planting. It will be exciting for students to come back to school in the fall to see pumpkins growing in their patch! The staff and parents also held a work day on June 28, where they built and planted raised beds and planted perennials around the school. A big thank you to Jeff Brown for trenching an irrigation line out to the garden, to Jamie Beaudoin for roto-tilling and getting the garden area ready for planting, and to Dave Kok for his assistance and advice and for donating the poly-line!

Pictured are this year’s top fundraisers, (back row): Sarah Burns, Cameron Swinehart (who participated all 6 years at WW), Mrs. Rogers; and (front row): Brooklyn Councell, Ava Earl, and Jayden Snyder.

Visits to Briarwood . . .

Students in Life Skills classes at the Alternative High School planted flowers in pots and delivered them to residents at Briarwood Assisted Living. A special thank-you to these members of the community who welcomed our students with opened arms!

Student Taylor Bluhn shares a flower and a smile with a friendly Briarwood resident.

Imagination Library

Dawson Elementary students collected $383.27 by bringing in their loose change in March. Pictured is Dawson Principal Joe James presenting the check to Denise Hartsough, Allegan County United Way president, to benefit the Imagination Library Project.

“Peer to Peer” ... is a newly-formed group at Allegan High School which matches up student volunteers known as “Tiger Links” with students with special needs, for day-to-day interactions. Staff noted a remarkable improvement in student achievement and attendance since the implementation of this program and hope to continue and expand it next year!

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Pine Trails Outstanding Citizens Shown with 5th grade teachers Mrs. Guy and Mrs. Herlein and Principal Mr. Kanine, are Pine Trails Outstanding Citizens Blane Johnson and Haylee Thompson.

Dictionaries Donated

For the 7th consecutive year, the Allegan Rotary Club purchased dictionaries for all 3rd grade students in the district.

The Dictionary Project takes place during March Reading Month to encourage students to read for pleasure and information! Rotarians Kevin Harness (APS Superintendent), Brent Larson (AGH Executive Director and current Rotary Club President), Dr. David Ohmart, and Dawson Principal Joe James are shown with Dawson 3rd graders from Mr. Beauregard’s class, Parker Schuyler, Thomas Pyle, Savannah Beilfuss, and Eli Festerling, exploring their new dictionaries!

West Ward Outstanding Students Shown with Principal Mr. Dalm, are West Ward Outstanding Students, 5th graders Zak Foster and Olivia Williams.

Mrs. Shelley Baker was chosen as FOX17 “Teacher of the Week” and she was recognized as such on March 28 on the television news program. She was nominated by her student, Eric Prymula!

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Cub Scouts Elijah Festerling and Connor Riess, along with their leaders Karen Allen, Dennis Festerling and Cynthia Riess, presented a certificate of appreciation to Principal Kanine and Superintendent Harness for the 20 years of continuous support of Boy Scouting in Allegan.

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Allegan Alternative High School and Adult Education (269) 673-5433

Laura Feffer (principal), Brenda Nyhof (Adult Education and “Allegan Online” Coordinator), Sue Chappell (GED Coordinator and Adult Education)

International Day

Allegan Alternative High hosted a group of WMU foreign exchange students who opened our students’ eyes to what life is like around the world! Students had the opportunity to try on authentic clothes, learn a few words in other languages, and ask lots of questions of students from Laos, Kurdistan, Brazil, Congo, China, Saudi Arabia, and Japan.

Thirteen students graduated on May 27 from Allegan Alternative High School and Adult Education. Highlights of the ceremony included speaker Ed Spicer and student speakers Becky Fletcher and Kora Wilholt. Becky Fletcher received a scholarship from the Allegan District Library as well as an Allegan Education Association Scholarship that will be put towards her studies at KVCC where she plans to study Secondary Education with a focus on Language Arts. Ben Hillard also received a scholarship from the AEA that will be used toward his pursuit of higher education at Lake Michigan College where he will study Information Technology. Congratulations to all of our Eagles!

Adult Education Classes & GED Testing Watch for Information on Adult Education classes in the August “Our School” issue. Enrollment will begin in September.

Students can earn a High School Diploma or GED Certificate through the Adult Ed. program. GED and Diploma Classes are FREE. Enroll before October 1, 2014 to be eligible to earn free GED Testing. Paid GED testing will also be available to those who do not want to take classes. Questions?

Contact Sue Chappell (schappell@alleganps.org or 269-673-5431 ext. 3054)

Summer GED Testing Allegan Public Schools is an official Pearson-Vue GED Testing Center. We will be offering paid GED Testing in July and August. Go to the ged.com website for information on GED Testing and to sign up to test. Our center will offer testing on Wednesdays from 10:00am – 5:00pm. You must sign up and pay at least 24 hours in advance on the ged.com website. The cost is $37.50 per test, there are four tests, making a total of $150.00. If you have questions email or call Sue Chappell and leave a message. (schappell@alleganps.org or 269-673-5431 ext. 3054)

*Any Time *Any Place *Any Pace

Allegan Online provides a Free, high quality, flexible education option for students who are not attending a traditional school. This is a local school program staffed with a certified teacher to assist students as needed.

Students in grades 6 – 12 may enroll for the 2014-15 school year.

Allegan Online offers: • An individual graduation plan designed for each student • Curriculum that meets MI Standards produced by Highly Qualified teachers • A computer and connectivity for each student • Certified Michigan teachers available for help and encouragement • A computer lab open 4 days a week for test taking and academic help Allegan Online is ideal for students who: • Have a medical condition that makes attending every day difficult • Would be a 5th year Senior • Have a child or are pregnant • Are homeless or lack a stable environment • Are behind in credits and/or experienced extended absences from traditional schools • Were not successful in traditional school For information or to sign up email or call Brenda Nyhof and leave a message: bnyhof@alleganps.org * 269-673-5431 ext. 3022 Page 14

Allegan Recreation & Aquatic Center 2014 Summer Programs

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Trevor Horwath- Rec. Director (ext 5506) Andrea Murphy - Aquatic Director (ext 5507) Pool Information: 673-7002 ext. 5541 email: ard@alleganps.org

Come join our “School of Fish”

Swim lessons for all ages (check out the summer schedule below) • pool parties, fitness classes, and competitive swimming • Fun for the whole family!

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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

The Allegan Public School District complies with all federal laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, marital status, political belief, or physical or mental handicap or disability--in all of its programs and in employment. Inquiries or complaints should be directed to the Superintendent of Schools, 550 Fifth Street, Allegan, MI (phone 269-673-5431).

Smiling Retirees!

Alva Morgan (instructional assistant) and Sandy Savage (middle school teacher) are officially retiring from Allegan Public Schools at the close of this school year! With a combined total of over 50 years of service, they have been a mainstay at L.E.White Middle School and will be sorely missed.

Alva will continue to help with the tennis program and Sandy, who has been an avid Sports Booster for years, will continue to be a solid supporter of our district!

Thanks, ladies, for all your contributions to our school...

The Tiger’s Den

Daycare and Preschool • 3 and 4 year old programs • OPEN on Snow Days • Preschool is FREE with enrollment in Daycare!

• Before and after school care also available!

Addison Laarman

Visit the APS website under Parent Links for brochure and registration forms.

A Tiger’s Den “graduate” shows off her certificate at the 3-year-old Preschool Celebration! It will be only a short time before Addy returns to the Tiger’s Den 4-year-old class for more fun and learning!

Parent/Child Playgroups

Infant son Bennett enjoys some “tummy time” while interacting with his Mom, Danielle Saltzman Lilge, at the May Playgroup sponsored by Great Parents/ Great Start. For more information about this program, contact Allison Bush, family coach for Allegan Public Schools, at (269) 673-7002, ext. 3012 or abush1@alleganps.org.

SUMMER FUN in ALLEGAN Community Helpers & Heroes (Family Event - All Ages) Thursday, July 17 (6-8 pm) Allegan County Fairgrounds

“Books, Bubbles, and Balls”

(0-5 Playgroup for July) Tuesday, July 22 (10:30-11:30) Jaycee Park in Allegan

Kindergarten Registration

If you know a youngster who is eligible for Kindergarten in the fall (5 years old by October 1, 2014), please direct them to their local elementary school to register. Elementary buildings will re-open August 4.