“Our Schools” News Family, Community, Excellence March 9, 2019 alleganps.org
Most Valuable Educators
The Educational Foundation of Allegan Public Schools hosted its fourth annual C.O.D.E. Orange/Most Valuable Educator game. The senior players on the girls’ and boys’ varsity basketball teams each selected the person that they consider the Most Valuable Educator (MVE) during their educational career. Each MVE was recognized on Friday, February 8 while being escorted on the court by the student who selected them. Each nominee received a Visa gift card donated by Allegan Credit Union. The Ed Foundation thanks Kris Lewis and the Allegan Credit Union for their generous and continued support of education in the Allegan community!
Pictured l to r: Lauren Fron, Craig Pennock, Dawn Hoyer, Sallie Bladen, Colin Weber, Alicia Ojeda-Greig, Margaret Brown, Jennifer Conrad, and Jennifer Fuller. Not pictured: Nancy Hascall and Jane Kiel
In This Issue: Contact Information Superintendent’s Message Staff News Community of Caring Middle School High School Allegan Tiger Athletics Allegan Performing Arts Elementary Schools Allegan Alternative High Upcoming Events Tiger Programs Allegan Aquatic Center
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Coach Ellis Retires After 45 Seasons
Coach Gary Ellis - known to most as simply “G” - is retiring after 45 seasons coaching the boys’ varsity tennis teams and thirteen seasons at the helm of the girls’ program as well. Gary was hired directly out of Western Michigan University in 1974. In addition to being hired as tennis coach, he was also hired as a math and history teacher at Allegan High School and later became the Athletic Director. During his coaching tenure from 1975 through 2018, Tiger Tennis has had 30 Wolverine Conference Titles with 8 Second Place Wolverine Conference Finishes, 12 Regional Titles with 15 Second Place Regional Finishes, and 32 State Final Appearances with 23 times finishing in the Top 10. In addition to numerous coaching recognitions such as Wolverine Conference Coach of the Year, Regional Coach of the Year, and Athletic Director of the Year, he was inducted into the Michigan High School Tennis Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2007. Not only did Gary provide countless hours of tennis lessons for the youth of Allegan, but he also provided numerous life lessons for his students and athletes. Allegan Public Schools is proud to have had Coach Ellis at the helm of the Allegan Tennis Program and even more proud of the lasting impact he has had on students, Allegan Tennis, and the Allegan community. (Pictured l to r: Seth Arthur, Gary Ellis, and Kevin Harness)
The Perrigo Co. Charitable Foundation recently donated $27,000 to Pine Trails Elementary to support their efforts to improve early literacy and student achievement. Perrigo’s donation will help the Pine Trails literacy goals by aiding in the purchase of grade-level appropriate reading materials, additional intervention materials, and supportive professional development for the Pine Trails Staff. We are extremely grateful for the continued support of Perrigo to our local schools. Thank you, Perrigo! (See additional article on page 11.) (Pictured l to r:
Perrigo Chief Information Officer Tom Farrington, APS Superintendent Harness, and Pine Trails Principal Kari Luckett)
Allegan Public Schools Telephone Numbers
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 School Web page: alleganps.org
Upcoming APS Dates:
March 20 Two-Hour Early Release Mar 29-Apr 5 Spring Break (NO SCHOOL) April 17 Two-Hour Early Release May 15 Parent-Teacher Conferences* May 15 Two-Hour Early Release May 24 Two-Hour Early Release May 27 NO SCHOOL (Memorial Day) May 30 AHS Graduation June Last Day - TBA *Check your child’s building for dates and times.
2018-19 Board Members:
Front l to r: Jennifer Nicholson, Nathon Kelley, Troy Carns, Lane Sturman Back l to r: Vicki Knuckles, Mary Kasprzyk, KD Lake
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 ►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.
We are now on Instagram. Check us out at @alleganps or use #alleganpspride.
Emergency Text Alerts: Have you signed up for “Remind” text alerts? Simply text “@alleganp” to phone number 81010 to receive REMIND alerts. Be among the first to know when there is a snow day or any other kind of district-wide alert or message.
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
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. . . the POWER of Education (A message from the superintendent of schools)
Bigs in Business
Kevin Harness Superintendent
During the 2016-17 school year, Allegan community leaders and Allegan Public Schools administrators identified the need to improve communication and support for students as they complete their K-12 education and move forward with their career plans. In response to the identification of the growing need for information and support for students, the “Allegan Advantage” team was established to create a partnership between our schools and our local businesses. The idea, in addition to creating community partnerships, was to increase student engagement in the learning process and provide a clear path to a wide variety of post-secondary options for students. Two of the founding members of the Allegan Advantage team include City Police Chief Rick Hoyer and Head of Corporate and Social Responsibility for Perrigo Steve Ramus. Representatives for Ropes Course Inc., Community Action of Allegan, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Earley Construction have also joined the group. A complete list of the team members is listed on page 4. Several exciting and productive programs have been developed over the past two years. A partnership with Junior Achievement allowed the Pictured above: “Big” Steve Ramus with his Alternative High School to pilot a class with volunteers from Perrigo and “Little” Tyler Davis Allegan Credit Union. Allegan Advantage is also encouraging participation in “Integrated Education Training (IET) Programs.” This program allows for adults and students in alternative programs to receive training in Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) courses, construction courses, and Certified Production Technician (CPT) courses. Students who complete the programs receive national certifications and job opportunities. Another opportunity for our students is the “Going Pro Pre-Apprenticeship Grant.” This grant allows students in Allegan County to receive paid job training for manufacturing and machining positions. The Allegan County Area Technical and Education Center is taking the lead to match students with employers. The Allegan Advantage Team has also partnered with Big Brothers and Big Sisters to introduce a “Bigs in Business Mentorship Program.” Bigs in Business has paired Allegan High School and Allegan Alternative High School students with mentors from the Perrigo Company. The “Bigs” and “Littles” meet two times per month for an hour. During these sessions, the Bigs and Littles discuss everything from the students’ present classes, sports, future plans, and simply life in general. Students learn about Perrigo and potential employment opportunities within the company. Students are exposed to the skills required to be successful in the workplace, and they also have a caring adult regularly checking in with them, who is available for guidance and support. The pilot program of Bigs in Business recently celebrated their first graduate of the program. Recent Allegan Alternative High School graduate, Tyler Davis, was paired with Steve Ramus from Perrigo. Tyler and Steve had an instant connection. Steve, who was a “Little” himself as a child, was thoroughly impressed with Tyler’s attitude, his willingness to learn, and his strong work ethic. Both Steve and Tyler looked forward to their meetings and they were both challenged to think differently. Steve began to view Perrigo through Tyler’s eyes and see things differently. Tyler was challenged to make a life plan, which ultimately resulted in Tyler being hired by Perrigo, where he is presently working full time. (Continued on Page 4) Page 3
Welcome! New Faces to the Allegan Public Schools Family!
Amanda Beaudoin Instructional Assistant
Jamie Collier
Maintenance/ Custodial Supervisor
APS
Pine Trails
Penny Evans Custodian
High School
Jessica GlessnerLonsway Music/Art Teacher
Pine Trails/ West Ward
Ken Greer
Head Custodian
High School
Ashley McAlpine
Kaytlynn Nichols
Ashley Sinkler
Tom Sousley
North Ward
Pine Trails
Pine Trails
Dawson
Noon Hour Supervisor
Instructional Assistant
Noon Hour Supervisor
“Harness” the Power of Education (Continued from Page 3) Steve explained, “I got a lot more out of this mentorship than I was expecting. The benefits for both the professionals and students involved are surprising. I was thoroughly impressed with Tyler. He is a great role model for his peers. I encourage his peers to befriend him and follow his example. I will stay part of Tyler’s life long after this mentorship has ended.”
Noon Hour Supervisor
Allegan Advantage Steering Committee James Antoine, APS Director of Instruction Linda Blankenship, Principal ACATEC Troy Carns, APS Board Member Amy Christman, APS Director of Finance & Operations Tracy Clawson, APS Central Office Support/ Pupil Accounting Tyler supports Steve’s comments. “I connected instantly with Steve,” Tyler Laura Feffer, APS Principal Allegan Alternasaid. “We are opposites but we just clicked from the very beginning. It was tive High School Kevin Harness, APS Superintendent nice to have another positive male role model who was like a father. You can never have enough help and support in life. We formed a friendship that Dawn Hoyer, APS Teacher/Work Based will last forever. I learned how to plan for the future, how to make smarter Learning at Allegan High School Rick Hoyer, Chief of Police choices, and how to network. I’m glad I was paired up with such a great Mary Kasprzyk, APS Board Member mentor.” Molly Kinnison, Human Resources Generalist of Ropes Courses As the Bigs in Business mentorship program evolved into its second year, Michelle Krcatovich, West Michigan Works members of the Allegan Advantage Team and students are reflected on Jim Mallard, APS Principal Allegan High the program. Alternative High School Principal Laura Feffer stated, “This School Erin Markel, Human Resources Generalist of Mentorship Program is an example of what can happen when people are willing to dream big and view the youth of the community as its top priority. Sky Trail Brenda Molendyk, CFO/COO of Allegan Co. If the adage is correct that it takes a village to raise a child, then there is no village you’d rather be a part of than Allegan.” Tyler also encourages the Community Action Network Brenda Nyhof, APS Director of Allegan continuation of this program, “Allegan Public Schools needs to continue this Online/Adult Ed program,” he said. “It takes kids that deserve a shot, pairs them up with Steve Ramus, Perrigo Head of Corporate someone who can make a difference, and beautiful things happen.” Social Responsibility
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Community of Caring
Love Your Hometown!
The Allegan County Community Foundation kicked off its “Love Your Hometown” grant project contest, and Allegan Public Schools have several projects in the running to win! The winner will be awarded $1,000 to complete his or her project idea. More information regarding each project can be found on the Allegan County Community Foundation webpage under the “Allegan Area” menu at: http://polls.alleganfoundation.org/ •
Allegan Alternative High School: Community Garden #HANDSINTHEGARDEN • Allegan Alternative High School: Kalamazoo River Sign #KALAMAZOORIVERSIGN • Allegan Public Schools: Tiger Pride Banners #TIGERPRIDEBANNERS • Dawson Elementary: Little Free Libraries (5) #LITTLEFREELIBRARIES • North Ward Elementary: Garden Transformation #NORTHWARDGARDENTRANSFORMATION
“Bigs” get a Big Boost
A big thank you to the Perrigo Co. Charitable Foundation for donating $25,000 to “Big Brothers Big Sisters” in support of Allegan Public Schools’ Bigs in Business Mentorship Program (see more about this great program in “Harness the Power of Education” on page 3). Pictured: Amy Kuchta (Big Brothers/Big Sisters), Tom Farrington (Perrigo), Steve Ramus (Perrigo) and Laura Feffer (Alternative High School).
You may vote once a day from now until March 31st. Support our communities and our schools – take the time to vote!
Giving Back
Many schools across the district organized a school-wide food drive for Allegan community families. A HUGE thank you goes out to all of our students and families that brought in bags and boxes of food to share with our neighbors.
GLEE Choir Community Performance
The Allegan High School Glee Choir (pictured below) performed a concert for Briarwood Assisted Living residents. The audience was delighted to hear selections from "The Sound of Music."
In addition to a food drive, Pine Trails students also organized a sock and underwear drive for Sylvia’s Place. Pictured: Bottom right: Dawson Student Council members with their donations. Top right: Pine Trails Student Council members and their sock collection. Page 5
Middle School Matters Moments Matter
It’s no surprise that the middle school years can be incredibly challenging. In an effort to help students navigate through these sometimes rough and murky waters, L.E. White Middle School welcomed Chase Mielke, a motivational speaker, on Monday, February 18. He inspired our students and staff to consider making “moments matter.” He challenged students to focus on a positive mindset, one of gratefulness. He also emphasized how difficult moments strengthen us if we chose the path of resilience. Chase’s positive impact has already been evident throughout the halls of L.E. White!
3D Cell Models
Mrs. Aldrich and Mrs. Jalbert's 6th grade science classes spent the months of December and January studying plant and animal cells. The students had a ton of fun with their 3D cell projects. Their creativity was off the charts. Students made their 3D cells out of cakes, styrofoam balls, fish bowls, legos, clay, and all sorts of other things. Parents and guardians were excited to see the projects on display during conferences.
Allegan Students Participate in the Lakeshore NEA Big Read
Students in Mrs. Calvert’s Advanced 7th Grade English Language Arts participated in the Lakeshore’s NEA Big Read Program through Hope College. In collaboration with several other school districts, in multiple counties, students read the novel The Giver. As part of the program, students worked closely with artist Mitch Conrad on creating a visual theme to the novel. Students captured pictures that demonstrated beauty in the fullest as well as the absence of beauty. In addition, students recognized the strength of community; wherein, students created 3D replicas and brochures for organizations in Allegan that offer community members support and resources. The Allegan sign showcased pictures of people and places in our beautiful small town. Their artwork was on display at The Student Exhibition of Learning at the Holland Armory. Celebrating the finished project, students attended a field trip to the Saugatuck Center for Arts to tour a professional exhibit and participate in a hands-on workshop, heard a lecture from Hope College Professor Christiana Salah, and proudly visited their work on display in the exhibit. Page 6
Pictured l to r: Zayne Allen, Mackenzie Rogers and Kayla Wesseling
L.E. LINKS
L.E. LINKS is a wonderful group of students who are committed to making the middle school a friendly and inclusive place for everyone. We have 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade groups that meet with their staff leader during TIGERS or lunch to catch up, play games, etc. We also have classroom LINKS that are paired up one-on-one to help students during class. They encourage the student they are paired with, role model appropriate social skills, and help them with work they may be struggling with.
High School Highlights
Muscular Dystrophy Donations
The student leaders class put together a coin drive in honor of Drew VerHoeven, an Allegan High School senior who passed away in December. The money raised is being donated to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in Drew’s name. The high school student body and staff along with the middle school student body and staff collected over $670 in memory of Drew. There was also a collection taken up at the high school’s Snowcoming game on January 18. Students and staff painted “Pride Rock” blue in honor of Drew’s favorite color. The Iron Bridge was also blue in honor of Drew. Drew (pictured right) touched many lives during his life and will be missed greatly.
Reality Fair
Allegan High School will be hosting a Reality Fair for students. A Reality Fair is an interactive financial literacy tool for high school students sponsored by Allegan Credit Union and volunteers from several other Credit Unions. The Reality Fair concept is a unique opportunity for students to experience some of the financial challenges they will face when they start life on their own. It’s a hands-on experience in which students identify their career choice and starting salaries and then complete a budget sheet requiring them to live within their monthly salary while paying for basics such as housing, utilities, transportation, clothing, food, and additional expenditures such as entertainment and travel. Throughout the fair, there are many temptations for additional spending. Students must learn to balance their wants and needs to live on their own. After the students have visited the various booths covering components of independent living, students balance their budget and then sit down with a financial counselor for review. This will be the third Reality Fair that Allegan Credit Union has sponsored for our students.
Senior Pictures
Photographers Jodi Byers and Meg Day offered free senior portraits for seniors. They offered students the opportunity to take indoor or outdoor photos and provided a digital file for participating students. This was a wonderful opportunity for some of our Allegan High School seniors. Thank you, Jodi and Meg!
Tiger Tails Seek Donations
Allegan High School has been running an annual literary contest for 20 years. They are seeking funds to help pay for prizes, cover the cost of printing of the anthology of winning pieces, and help fund the spring contest reception which is attended by the hundreds of students who have entered a piece of writing, whether they are finalists or not!
This, for many of the students, is their only opportunity to see their writing published. Quite a few of the past winners have gone on to win a number of other writing prizes, including college scholarship essay contests. The English Department would love to continue this competition, but it is impossible to fund on their own. The teachers believe it is a vital motivational tool to keep our students writing. They will be “famous!” This means so much to the students of Allegan High School and hundreds of student writers will be thankful. Go Tigers!!! Visit the Go Fund Me campaign at: https://www.gofundme.com/tiger-tales-literary-magazine-2019 Page 7
Allegan Tiger Athletics
By: Ron Orr, Athletic Director alleganps.org/athletics Tiger Athletics had an exciting winter season. Many teams performed well and continued to improve throughout the season. The high school provided students with many opportunities to be involved including basketball, bowling, competitive cheer, swim, and wrestling. Our student-athletes competed well and made Allegan proud with their effort and determination. Thank you to all of the coaches who put time into working with our students and for working with our youth through community programs to teach students the sports they play. As winter sports wrap up, we are starting to prepare ourselves for springs sports, which officially begin on March 11. Go Tigers!
Allegan AllSports Boosters now has new Allegan nonsports specific apparel for sale. They have everything from joggers to track jackets and crewneck sweatshirts. Contact Mindi Smith at 616-836-7737, Athletic Director Ron Orr at 269-6737002 or see them at one of their pop up tables at larger athletic events. Join them for their meetings the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Tiger Den in the High School Gym. Page 8
Allegan Performing Arts “Notes” TrebleMakers Sing National Anthem The TrebleMakers Youth Choir performed the National Anthem at the MVE basketball game in February. TrebleMakers are comprised of 4th and 5th-grade students that meet once a week at their perspective schools to rehearse. They will be joining the middle school and high school choirs on May 16 for their Spring Concert, which you won’t want to miss. Band Notes
The MSBOA District 10 High School Solo and Ensemble Festival was on February 9 at Zeeland East High School. The following students earned a Division II rating: Brian Andrews, Stephen Pierce, and Lillian Voetberg. The students who earned a Division I rating, which then qualifies them for the MSBOA State Solo and Ensemble Festival, are Noah Festerling, Brody Keeley, Cameron Pierce, Jacob Pierce, Andrew Teachout, Kohl Tourangeau, Maddy Waite, Kavan Withrow, and Skylar Zuverink. Congratulations!
Due to the snow days, the Pre-Festival Concert that was scheduled for 2/12/19 was canceled. This performance will not be rescheduled. Please come to our upcoming performances: Thursday, 2/28/19 High School Symphonic Band performance Grandville High School 4 p.m. Friday, 3/1/19 Middle School Symphonic Band performance Hastings High School 8:50 a.m. Tuesday, 5/21/19 - Middle School Bands Spring Concert @ AHS PAC 7 p.m. Thursday, 5/23/19 - High School Symphonic Band Spring Concert @ AHS PAC 7 p.m.
Mark your Calendars
May 16 for the Allegan Choirs Spring Concert at the Performing Arts Center featuring TrebleMakers and Middle School Choirs at 6 p.m. and the Glee Choir, Chamber Choir, and Treble Choirs at 7:30 p.m. Don’t miss it!
MSVMA CHORAL FESTIVAL
Elementary Spring Music Programs at Allegan’s Performing Arts Center Tuesday, March 12: Dawson Elementary (K-5), 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 14: North Ward Elementary (K-5), 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 30: West Ward Elementary 6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Kindergarten & 1st Grade 6:45 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. - 2nd & 3rd Grade 7:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - 4th & 5th Grade Thursday, May 2: Pine Trails Elementary 6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Kindergarten & 1st Grade 6:45 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. - 2nd & 3rd Grade 7:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - 4th & 5th Grade Page 9
Congrats to Allegan Treble and Chamber Choirs on their performances at the MSVMA Choral Festival. Both the Combined Women and Chamber Choir received the highest rating of a “1” in both performance and sight reading, qualifying them for MSVMA State Choral Festival in May.
News from Dawson, North Ward... 100th Day Fun!
Students across the district celebrated the 100th Day of School. Mrs. Baker’s first-graders at Pine Trails Elementary created a 100th day crown, drew pictures of what they would look like at 100, licked Tootsie Roll Pops to see if they could get to the center in 100 licks (they didn’t), and made Fruit Loop necklaces with 100 Fruit Loops! The day helped students realize what the number 100 actually meant; they decided that they COULD have 100 books but probably COULD NOT have 100 dogs. Students had a great time with all of the 100th day activities!
Above: Pine Trails first-grader Elliana Dickerson makes a necklace with 100 Fruit Loops. Left: West Ward kindergartener Ava Kievit takes her turn in the aging booth.
Got Eggs?
Elementary students were “egg-cited” to help the Food Pantry. The food pantry consistently gives to the students at Allegan Public Schools. This month, the elementary schools chose to be a part of giving back. The food pantry was in dire need of empty egg cartons so that they could deliver fresh eggs to local families in need. As a matter of fact, the food pantry had completely run out of egg cartons earlier in the year. Dawson Elementary started out the collection; and following that, a food pantry representative challenged West Ward, Pine Trails, and North Ward Elementary Schools to raise the most egg cartons to beat Dawson’s number. The chance for competition in the name of an amazing cause was snatched up immediately. As if helping others wasn’t enough, the school who collects the most egg cartons will win bragging rights and 100 pounds of gummy bears to share among students. Our community has banded together once again to support one another! (Pictured l to r: Sydney Cooley, Kassidy Van Wy, Kara Wooster, and Maia Perez from West Ward show off their collection of egg cartons.
Model Readers Students at Pine Trails Elementary in Mrs. Baker’s first-grade and Ms. Wildeboer’s third and fourth get together once a month to read to each other. The first graders practice reading books with the older kids helping and then the big kids read to the younger ones modeling fluency and expression. (Pictured left: Alexis Hoyt and Mallory Honeycutt enjoy “Fly Guy.” Pictured right: Arleigh Dangremond and Haley Melon enjoying a book together.
Feast for a King!
The Dawson Special Education team put together a feast fit for kings and queens! Some of our Dawson students and Allegan staff were invited to this Thanksgiving dinner the Tuesday before the official holiday. Mrs. Seiber and Mrs. Carroll worked diligently, preparing various traditional foods with the help of their students, for the better part of November. A wonderful time of friendship and food made this event quite festive, with Mrs. Sternberg’s ECSE classroom creating table decorations to top off the event. Cooking and baking are weekly occurrences in Mrs. Seiber’s classroom, teaching her students necessary and useful life skills within a fun and enjoyable environment. Page 10
Pictured l to r: Josh Bononia, Abel Courtney, and Michael Butt sharing fellowship and food.
Pine Trails and West Ward Elementaries Global Play Day
North Ward participated in Global Play Day on February 6. It is a day designated to play for students around the world. North Ward students enjoyed playing board games, card games, and doing physical activities such as playing on the playground, having game choices during Physical Education. Play is an important part of child development. Children learn how to problem solve, how to take turns, and how to socialize appropriately through play.
Books Galore!
What better time to get new books than Reading Month? Thanks to a generous donation from the Perrigo Co. Charitable Foundation (see page 1), students at Pine Trails Elementary are enjoying an influx of new books. Leveled readers of non-fiction, fiction, graphic novels, and more hit the shelves of the classrooms this month. Students were thrilled with the new additions to their classroom libraries. “Perrigo recognizes literacy as the foundation for academic success and success beyond school,” said Tom Farrington, executive vice president and chief information officer for Perrigo and president of the Perrigo Co. Charitable Foundation. “We are pleased to support this program dedicated to providing the necessary resources to help young readers in Allegan County reach their full potential.” Thank you, Perrigo!
Above: Pine Trails fifth-graders Emma Scheffler, Riley Williams, Abby King, and TJ Jameson checking out the new books. Right: Pine Trails Principal Kari Lukett delivering new books to the fifth-graders.
Hitting the Slopes!
Students at Pine Trails were entertained by a Percussion Duo from the Kalamazoo Symphony.
This winter, fifth-graders across the district enjoyed a day of skiing at Timber Ridge Ski Resort. As part of the physical education curriculum, the students spent the morning learning valuable skills to help them stay on their skis and how to come to a stop. The students loved spending the rest of the day zooming down the hills! Page 11
Pictured above: Dawson fifthgrader Gerardo Llanas Tello learning how to stop. Pictured left: West Ward fifthgrader Hanna Kievit getting ready to hit the slopes.
Allegan Alternative High School Peer-to-Peer Mentoring
Allegan Alternative’s newest partnership is with Hillside Learning and Behavior Center in a Peer-toPeer Program. The purpose of the program is to have peers helping students with learning differences gain skills in socialization, independence, and motivation in order to be successful. Research has shown that peer modeling is very powerful in the academic, social, and communication growth of students with disabilities. It is an evidence-based practice that has been found to have a great impact on outcomes for students with disabilities and students without. Students participating in the program: Gara Stacey, Darell Williams, Jessica Diaz, Xavier Lopez, and Josh Ugianskis. Pictured right: Gara Stacey and her peer from Hillside.
Calm Down Jars
It’s important to know when to pause and take a breath, especially if someone begins to escalate. Sometimes a tool can help do that. Thank you to Jennifer Turner Hamman, Restorative Justice Facilitator, for her “Make a Calm Down Jar” workshop. They are awesome for kids and adults alike!
Working Out
The Plate Boys are bringing their enthusiasm for weight lifting, nutrition, and life itself to the students of Allegan Alternative High School. Students have the opportunity to work with them and reach personal fitness goals on Fridays.
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Upcoming Events Outstanding People For Education
The nomination form for the 2019 Outstanding People for Education Award is now available on our homepage at alleganps.org. Please consider nominating someone who has made a difference to a student at Allegan Public Schools. Nominations are due to Laura Sullivan at 550 Fifth St., Allegan, MI 49010 or lsullivan@alleganps.org by April 1.
Post Prom/Grad Bash 2019
2019 Post Prom will be held at the Regent Theatre this year immediately following Prom on Saturday, April 27. (NOTE: There is no bus this year. Students/ parents will need to plan their own transportation to Prom and to Post Prom and home.) They will see a free movie, the committee will buy popcorn and pop, and will supply something sweet for them to give them that boost of energy before they drive home. Upon arrival to the Regent, the students are “locked in” until the event ends around 3 a.m. Prizes will be awarded at the end of the movie. 2019 Grad Bash will be immediately following graduation, on Thursday, May 30. The students need to be to the busses in the front of the high school no later than 9 p.m. They will be bussed to the “mystery” location where entertainment and food will be provided. There students hang out together, as a class, for a final secure celebration. Students cannot drive to the facility and only 2019 AHS graduates are allowed to participate. Prizes will be awarded at Grad Bash also. If you would like to serve on the committee, simply come to any of the remaining meetings for the year: Monday, March 18, April 15, and/or May 20 at 7 p.m. in the high school staff lounge. If you are interested in helping chaperone one of the events or make a donation, contact Audra Lang at alang@alleganps.org.
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Tiger Programs
ECSE Students Get a Special Gift
The Allegan Fire Department and Allegan Life EMS visited the ECSE classroom at Dawson Elementary. They generously gave each student in the morning and afternoon classes a Christmas present. The students were excited to spend time with the first responders and receive a Christmas gift.
Tigers Den
The Tigers Den Preschool three- year-old class enjoyed making a lotsof noise on letter “Nn” day with their “noisy” musical instruments!
Allegan Play-n-Learn Groups
The Tigers Den Preschool and Tigers Den Day Care are now taking applications for the 2019-2020 school year which you can find on our website at alleganps.org/ tigers-den. You can also contact Judi McCall at 269.673.5379.
February had a huge turnout for the Play-n-Learn Group. These monthly groups meet in a different Kindergarten classroom in the district so future students and families become familiar with all of the Kindergarten classrooms. There is a Play-n-Learn Group on the third Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. throughout the school year. Mrs. Rogers is even adding a BONUS night on the first Tuesday of some months. The next Play-n-Learn Group will be at Dawson on Tuesday, March 19 at 6 p.m. Contact Amy Rogers at arogers@alleganps.org for more information.
Allegan Adult Education Learn More, Earn More
Enrolling Now!
Earning a High School Diploma or GED changes a person’s life and positively impacts families and communities. We offer GED, Diploma, Career Readiness and access to classes in: Welding, Machining, CNA and Construction. If you know anyone who needs to complete their High School education, please send them our way today! Open Hours: Monday & Wednesday 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Tuesday & Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm We also offer GED classes in Pullman at the Linking Center. Tuesday & Thursday from 12 pm - 3 pm Allegan Adult Education Lower Level APS Admin Building 550 Fifth Street, Allegan, MI 49010 269-673-5431 Brenda Nyhof, Director x3022 bnyhof@alleganps.org Sue Chappell x3054 schappell@alleganps.org Page 14
Allegan Aquatic Center
Memberships, Registration and Information at WWW.ALLEGANAQUATICS.COM New Program!!!! Swim for fitness on the weekend SAT & SUN 8:30-9:30am
ALLEGAN SWIM SCHOOL
Lifeguard Certification
Proud Provider of SwimAmerica Swimming Lessons
Apr 19-21, May 17-19
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
Re-cert Class: 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): March - May 2019 5:45-6:15 pm or 6:30-7:00 pm Monday and Thursday Parent/ Child Lessons (up to age 3) March 2019-May 2019
5pm-5:30pm
Register Online
Click the “Allegan Swim School” tab Spring lessons:
COMPETITIVE SWIM– Spring season
Feb 18– Mar 20
ATAC is competitive swimming & diving for those ages 6-17. Lessons level 6 through advanced are welcome. Swim faster with friends! New groups based on ability level. Junior Tigershark Rising Tigershark Intermediate Tigershark Advanced Tigershark Senior Tigershark No Practice or Competition requirements! Registration online under Tigershark Aquatics tab.
Interested? Contact cmadill@alleganps.org
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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 M-W: 4-5 pm; Th– 12:151:15 pm; Sat 10:3011:30 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).
Swimming Fun!
All third and fourth-graders across the district participate in swim lessons as part of their physical education curriculum. Check out page 15 for more information on our Allegan Aquatic Center.
Snowball Fight! When itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too cold to go outside, what do you do? Why have an indoor snowball fight, of course! As part of their good behavior reward, students a Pine Trails Elementary recently had an indoor snowball fight using socks. Not only did they have a blast, they stayed nice and warm as well.