March 28, 2015 www.alleganpublicschools.org
Allegan Public Schools - “Striving for Excellence”
Early College - Allegan County Students in Allegan County high schools who take advantage of the new Early College program can earn free college credits that lead to a two-year degree! A new partnership between AAESA and Lake Michigan College will provide an opportunity to earn an Associate’s Degree during the student’s last few years in high school. Students who are selected for this program will be required to commit to one extra year of high school. By the end of their 13th year, they will not only have earned their high school diploma, but also a 2-year college degree. Tuition is free for students in the Early College program. 10th graders interested in applying for this program should contact their high school counseling office prior to April 1, as a limited number of students will be selected from each school district.
Allegan County School Boards Association
“OUTSTANDING PEOPLE FOR EDUCATION” Award
Nominations due April 1
(See page 14 for nomination form or visit any Allegan County school website)
SPRING BREAK: APRIL 3-10
Kindergarten Round-Up Thursday, April 16 2 sessions: 12-1:30 pm & 5:30-7:00 pm
High School Conference Center Children who are 5 years old by September 1 should register! Contact any of our Elementary Schools to find out what to bring with you to registration.
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Bounce House Crafts Find out Info about your school Snacks Bus Ride Register for Kindergarten!!!!!
Dr. Wittkop Retires from Board of Education
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 Becky Corbett (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) Tasha Frigmanski (supervisor) Athletic Office................................................ 673-7002 Matthew Stofer (director) Pool/Aquatics................................................. 673-7002 Mark Mattox (ext. 5507) Maintenance Department............................... 673-2085 George Zeock (supervisor) Transportation Department........................... 673-2203 Darrell Stoughton (supervisor) Food Service ............................................... 673-7002 Barb Elenbaas (supervisor) ext. 5517 School Web page: www.alleganpublicschools.org
Dale Wittkop presided over his last school board meeting as president in December, retiring after serving eight years on the board of education. During his tenure, Dale served in the offices of president, vice president, and treasurer and also served on numerous board committees. He was an integral part of the Finance Committee during the most recent bond issue, and has been highly supportive of technology advancements in the district. Superintendent Harness presented Dr. Wittkop with a plaque for his service, as well as a lifetime pass for athletic events, and stated, “Dale’s greatest contribution has been his desire to always put kids first in all decision-making!”
Allegan Public Schools 2014-15 Board of Education Regular Meeting Schedule
April 13, 2015 (7:00 p.m.) May 11, 2015 (7:00 p.m.) June 22, 2015 (6:00 p.m.) July 13, 2015 (6:00 p.m.) Organizational Meeting - Most regular meetings scheduled for the 2nd Monday of each month, except for June 22, 2015 meeting, which is the 4th Monday. - 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 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.
Current Board of Education: Front Row: Mike Fairbanks (president), Vicki Knuckles (vice president), Jeff McLaughlin (secretary), Mary Kasprzyk (treasurer) Back Row: Troy Carns (trustee), Lane Sturman (trustee), Mark Davidhizar (trustee) 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
“Read to me . . .” These words are music to a parent’s ears... because parents and teachers know that a love of reading can open the door to a world of imagination and information for students of all ages! One of the main indicators of students’ success in school is their ability to read and understand what they have read. This is not new news. We have known for decades that a student’s reading abilities and reading comprehension skills provide nearly a direct correlation to a student’s success in the classroom. Given this, we are continuing to take steps across all grade levels at Allegan Public Schools to improve students’ literacy: •
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March is Reading Month - APS is providing numerous activities and opportunities for students to increase their reading abilities, as well as their enjoyment of reading. As is mentioned elsewhere in this edition of the Our Schools News, our spring play put on by the high school drama department is Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat. Activities leading up to the performance, as well as the performance itself, provide excellent opportunities for us to highlight the importance of reading. Imagination Library – Dolly Parton started this program that provides a new book every month for children ages 0 to 5 at no cost to the families. The books provided are high quality and age appropriate. If you are interested in signing up a young child for this program visit the website at https://imaginationlibrary.com. “Reading Now” Network – APS is part of this network formed by the MASA Region 3 Superintendents’ Association that covers a large area of west Michigan. The goal is to improve early reading proficiency through sharing ideas and effective practices across districts. Allegan Rotary Club Dictionary Project – For the past several years the Allegan Rotary Club has been providing a dictionary to all third graders in the Allegan Public Schools. The dictionaries provide an excellent resource for our students for many years. Library Summer Reading – The Allegan District Library promotes summer programs that include various hands-on weekly activities revolving around a theme for all ages. There is a competition between our four elementary schools to determine which building has the most students sign up for the program. Library staff visit every school in May to get students excited and involved. Book Fairs – This is an opportunity provided at several of our elementary schools for students to stock up on summer reading materials at discounted prices. Take/Trade/ Donate a Book – The goal is to get more books into students’ hands. This program often runs during Parent-Teacher conferences and has been a huge hit in the past. E-books and summer check out – Students at the high school level have access to e-books over the summer, or they can check out books from the library before the last day of school. Recommended reading lists are also provided.
These programs, as well as many others, have been initiated to not only encourage students to read, but also to provide every opportunity for them to do so. If you want to contribute to your child’s education, and ultimately impact the tools they possess to be successful in life, there is no simpler or more effective way than to read with your child. Better yet, have them read to you -- it’s not only educational, it’s fun!
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Hats Off to Literacy! MARCH READING MONTH ACTIVITIES were in full swing at all Allegan schools. From special assemblies, to guest readers and authors, to classroom activities that include D.E.A.R. time (Drop Everything And Read), students were immersed in the joy of reading! The month culminated with Allegan High School’s rendition of “The Cat in the Hat” in the Performing Arts Center on March 26-27-28.
“Reading is Magic”
This magical theme at Dawson Elementary included a magician named “Baffling Bill” who provided students with a special assembly to kick off Reading Month. In the photo, 3rd grader Nora Spreitzer (from Mr. Beauregard’s class) and kindergartner Dakota Williams (from Ms. Mead’s Y5’s class) assist magician “Baffling Bill” with his magic trick!
Brainstormers
Michigan Chillers Author
West Ward students in back row (left to right): Mark McCracken, Layla Webb, Elliott Pickin. Front row: DeShawnia May, Johnathan Rand, Chris Smith
March Reading Month began with a scare at West Ward Elementary, as students enjoyed a visit from Johnathan Rand, author of the book series: Michigan Chillers, American Chillers, Freddie Fernorter Fearless First Grader, and The Adventure Club. The students learned that reading is not something you do, it is a place you go. Mr. Rand also told them that to become a good author, you must rewrite a story several times. Both students and staff enjoyed thoroughly enjoyed his visit!
– Students love to write stories! And when the traveling group, the Brainstormers come to visit an elementary school, it is even more exciting because this troupe actually reads and acts out some of the stories that students have written, making them come to life! Pine Trails 3rd grader Kaydence Livingston was one of the students whose story was selected to be acted out by the Brainstormer actors!
Poets and Photographers
Students in Mr. Spicer’s 1st grade class at North Ward Elementary received a special treat for March Reading Month. They were visited by award winning author, Helen Frost and acclaimed photographer and illustrator Rick Lieder. These two collaborated on the books “Step Gently Out” and the newly released “Sweep Up the Sun”. In addition to poetry, Helen has taught writing at all levels and she even sat in on a poetry lesson in Mr. Spicer’s class and helped the students to write a group poem! Pictured with author Helen Frost are (clockwise, from front center): Mya Corbett, Matheson Vernia, Sullivan Garvin, and Kohen Gillies. Page 4
Kohen Gillies is getting an autograph from photographer, Rick Lieder.
High School cast members from “The Cat in the Hat” read to Dawson students during “Read-In” Day.
The “Cat in the Hat” comes to visit the Early Childhood (ECSE) classroom at Dawson Elementary. Students pictured are from Ms. Sternberg’s class (Clockwise from bottom left): Bella Mohrland, Collin Moyer, Brenton Daly, Sydney Allen, Isaiah Smith, Dalton Gibbs, Randy Leighton, Ayden Edwards, Alivia Bowerman.
What do YOU see? Middle Schools students tried out Rorschach Ink Blot tests to experience what the characters in the story Flowers for Algernon did. 8th grader Hailey Raymond from Ms. Hellman’s class explains what she sees in the abstract drawings.
Emily Groendyk and Angel Baux cozy in their pj’s.
PJ & Read Day - Students from Allegan Alternative High School dressed in pajamas for a special AllSchool Read Day, complete with milk and cookies!
SKYPE -
Students in Mrs. Sullivan’s 2nd grade class at West Ward Elementary skyped with author Bill Doyle, who wrote several book series and writes for magazines such as Sports Illustrated for Kids.
High School senior Skylar Sanders, accompanied by senior Alayna VanHorn, read to Harper LeClear and Ash Hardy.
Children’s Literature - Students from Ms. Conrad’s Children’s Literature Class visited Mrs. Nugent’s Y5’s class at Dawson Elementary to read picture books with them last fall and will be repeating this exercise this month. Page 5
Technology Corner:
MACUL Conference
Shopko Donation
Our local Shopko store generously donated $1,500 to Allegan Schools, through their “Give Back” campaign. Over the past holiday season, Shopko Hometown Allegan collected signatures from customers and donated $1 for each one! Shopko is headquartered in Green Bay, WI. Their Foundation supports community health and education programs . The $1,500 donation will be used to further enhance our technology programs at APS.
Twenty-two APS staff attended the MACUL technology conference in Detroit this month. The conference is the largest of it’s kind, hosting over 5000 participants around one topic: utilizing technology in the classroom to improve student achievement. The theme for this year was collaboration, which goes right along with our Professional Learning Communities. Staff learned not only how to collaborate better with each other using technology but also with students to staff and students to students.
Shopko Manager John Harmeyer presents check to Superintendent Kevin Harness.
Mother-Son Father-Daughter DANCES (sponsored by the Allegan Post Prom/Grad BashCommittee and the AHS Class Officers)
Mother/Son March 27 (7-9 pm)
#chataps
#chataps is a teacher led weekly public chat discussing hot education topics affecting students and K-12 staff. We value input from APS stakeholders; please join us on Monday nights at 8:30 p.m. by following #chataps.
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Father/Daughter March 28 ( 7-9 pm)
Refreshments, Music, Dancing • Open to all APS students • Cost is $5 per person • Photographer available
Mid-Year APS Retirees:
After serving 20 years as an Instructional Assistant with the district, Marsha Reich retired this winter. Josephine (Sue) Farrer retired, after serving 18 years at North Ward as an Instructional Assistant. Bert Brower, bus driver, retired in January after 15 years with APS.
Carol Houser retired after serving 27 years at APS as an Instructional Assistant and Kitchen Attendant.
We wish them all a very happy retirement! Page 6
Middle School Achievers
Several middle school students were recognized at a recent board meeting for their academic accomplishments!
8th grader Kody Harrington was the winner of the L.E.White Geography Bee. He will now take a qualifying exam to see if he makes the top 100 and a spot at the State Geography Bee in April.
8th grade winners of the “America & Me” essay contest, sponsored by State Farm Insurance, were: 1st place--Chloe Schans (pictured 2nd from left), 2nd place--Megan Collins (not pictured), and 3rd place--Annika Hansen (at left in photo). Teachers Darlene Corey, Ryan Sieg, and Catherine Hellman presented the award. The essays this year were all written about the theme, “My Personal Michigan Hero.” Chloe’s winning essay now advances to the statewide competition.
Fleece Hats
Students in Mrs. Dykstra’s 8th grade sewing class made fleece hats again this year and gave them to the Young 5’s students in Mrs. Mead’s and Mrs. Nugent’s classrooms. The students had fun learning a new skill and performing a community service project, but mostly they enjoyed the smiles on the kids’ faces as they met with them to read stories and deliver the hats! Page 7
Summer 2015
Laker Writing Camps These camps, sponsored by Grand Valley State University, are for students who are interested in learning to become better writers! The teachers will inspire creative thinking and writing as the young writers explore various writing styles and methods of selfexpression. Students will meet and write with new friends. The Allegan session (July 27-30) is being taught by our own Bethany Burnett (5th grade teacher at Dawson Elementary), and is for students who will be in grades 4-7 in the fall of 2015. Each session is $125 per child. Scholarships are available, so please ask! Check out the district webpage under Parent Links for the registration form.
8th grader Lily Ehn was recognized as the winner of the middle school Spelling Bee and also took 2nd place at the Allegan County Spelling Bee in Wayland.
Summer Buddies Summer Buddies is a day-camp experience for elementary students. It is an 8-week program that meets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8 am til noon. Summer Buddies was designed to provide children with academic enrichment activities throughout the summer. Using fun “themes” the students may not even notice that they are actually practicing phonics, spelling, math, and fine motor skills! The cost is $40 per week, plus a $20 registration fee. Discounts apply for multiple children from the same family and scholarships are available! To apply, check out the APS website under Parent Links for the Summer Buddies registration form. For questions, contact: Susan Busfield (269) 673-8406 or Sara Phillips (269) 522-6621
Art exhibits such as these masks, created by Dawson 5th grade students in Mrs. Hilsbos’ class will be on display.
Allegan Tiger Athletics By: Matt Stofer, Athletic Director Tigers Winter Sports News, Spring On Deck --Congratulations to Coach Rose and the Wrestling program on another trip to the Division III State Finals after winning Conference & Regional titles. Seven wrestlers qualified for the Individual State Finals led by Chase Beard who reached the Division III State Finals at 189 and finished runner-up. Joining Beard at the finals were: Davynn Schneider, Richard Jefferson, Justin Wiseman, Joey Orr, Levi Sabin and Austin Farrell. Both Sabin (7th) & Farrell (8th) joined Beard as All-State Wrestlers. Coach Rose was also named Wolverine Conference Coach-of-the-Year. --Coach Mattox and the Boys Swimming & Diving team had six swimmers qualify for the Division III State Finals: Brody Carns, Sy Ter Avest, Charlie Riess, Lucas Bunn, Joel Raymond and Michael Curtis. Two school records were set this season: Lucas Bunn in the 50 Freestyle and Sy Ter Avest in the 100 Breaststroke.
APS Spring Art Show and HS Talent Show Tuesday, May 19
(5:30-6:30 pm visual arts & 7:00 talent show) Enjoy an evening of CREATIVE ARTS as local K-12 artists and talented students entertain you! Visual Arts Open House will be held in the lobby of the AHS Performing Arts Center from 5:30-6:30 p.m. featuirng creations from elementary, middle and high school students. Followed by high school talent show beginning at 7 p.m.
--Congratulations to Varsity Boys Bowling Coach Don Lamb on being named Wolverine Conference Coach-ofthe-Year. --Congratulations to the Varsity Girls Tennis coaching staff and student-athletes on another great "Rally for the Cure" event held with Comstock Park HS held on March 20. They raised over $5,500 for the American Cancer Society! --Reminder with scheduling changes and spring weather, the best place for updated Spring Sports Schedules is at www.alleganathletics.com where schedules are updated under the schedules link at "daily schedules." --Help support Allegan Athletics as the All-Sports Booster Club is proud to present TRI Allegan 2015! The fourth annual sprint triathlon will be held on Tuesday, July 21st at 5:45 pm at Littlejohn Park. For more information on this event, please visit the TRI Allegan web site at www.triallegan.com
This group of Irish dancers from the Ardan Academy in Grand Rapids took 2nd place at the “G.R. Has Talent” contest, and were selected to audition in Chicago for “America’s Got Talent” television show! Allegan’s own Sabrina Mills (4th from left) and Sasha Mills (4th from right) are members of this talented group!
2015 Snowcoming Royalty
Tennis Recruit AHS senior and #1 Singles tennis player Livia Christman recently signed a letter of intent to attend G.V.S.U. Liv, who is a 3-year All-State player, will play tennis and plans to study business and accounting.
King: Alex Wittkop Queen: McKennah Heckman
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Allegan Band “Notes”
Upcoming Events:
MSBOA Band and Orchestra Festival: Allegan High School Sym-
phonic Band earned straight 1’s at this year’s festival at West Ottawa. The 7th and 8th grade bands each earned Division II ratings. District Solo & Ensemble Performers: Congratulations to the following Allegan band members who performed at MSBOA District Solo & Ensemble in January. Earning Superior (I) ratings were: Rayanne Williams-Snare Drum Solo, Olivia Duron and Rayanne Williams-Percussion Duet, Maya Geiselhart-Piano Solo, Colton Fairbanks-Snare Drum Solo, Christian MacCartnyHorn Solo, Ethan Hill-Alto Saxophone Solo, Abby Knuckles-Flute Solo, Wren Ashley-Flute Solo, Wren Ashley & Abby Knuckles-Flute Duet, Madeline Miller, Alicia Olmstead, and Maya Geiselhart-Clarinet Trio, Alex Looman and Joseph LaJoice-Clarinet Duet. Earning Excellent (II) ratings were: Emerald Dewey - Piano Solo, Megan VerHoeven - Flute Solo, Christian MacCartny - Piano Solo, Cameron Zeter - Baritone Solo, Jasille Rivas & Lydia Huff - Clarinet Duet, Cameron Zeter & Dylan Johnson - Baritone/Tuba Duet, Olivia Duron-Marimba Solo, Christian MacCartny & Benjamin AndrewsHorn Duet, Jared Krug, Cameron Zeter, and Dylan Johnson-Brass Trio.
Mar 28 - Mattress Sale Apr. 18 - MS Solo & Ensemble Apr. 21 - 5th grade rental night Apr 27 - Band Boosters Meeting (7 p.m.) May 4 - Allegan Honor Band May 5 - 6th & 7th grade concert May 20 - Spring concert (HS & 8th grade bands) May 25 - Memorial Day Parade May 28 - Graduation (HS band) July 20-31 - Band Camp
Pizza Hut Fundraiser: April 15 (5-8 p.m.)
State Solo & Ensemble:
Composer MacCartny
AHS band student Christian MacCartny (center of photo) was selected to perform his original composition at the Honor’s Composition Concert in January at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. He chose the above ensemble of musicians to perform the piece, which was entitled Grass and Goodwinds.
Colton Fairbanks (Proficiency III-Snare Solo-Division I), Christian MacCartny (Proficiency II-Horn Solo-Division I), Rayanne Williams (Proficiency II - Snare Drum Solo - Division II), Abby Knuckles (Proficiency I - Flute Solo - Division I), Maya Geiselhart (Proficiency I - Piano Solo-Division I), Wren Ashley (Proficiency I- Flute Solo-Division II), Joseph LaJoice & Alex Looman (Clarinet Duet-Division II), Madeline Miller, Alicia Olmstead & Maya Geiselhart (Clarinet trio-Division I), Rayanne Williams & Olivia Duron (Percussion Duet - Division I), Wren Ashley and Abby Knuckles (Flute Duet - Division I)
District Solo & Ensemble
Congratulations to the following choir students for their participation in solo & ensemble at GVSU. “Good” ratings were awarded to Zeke Butcher & McKennah Heckman. “Excellent” ratings were awarded to the McKennah Heckman & Brianna Price duet, and to soloists Bailey Weaver, Dontae Havinga-Hamilton, Emma Kasprzyk, Brianna Price, Brittany Groenwald & Sadie Clark. Special congrats to McKennah, Brianna, Bailey, Dontae, Sadie, Brittany, and Emma for qualifying for State!! Great job all!
Honors Choir
Congrats to McKennah Heckman, Brianna Price and Jessica Willey who participated in State Honors Choir in January in conjunction with the Michigan Music Conference. Special accolades go out to Brianna Price on being selected to participate in Michigan Youth Arts Festival’s (MYAF) All-State Honors Choir, quite a prestigious honor! Page 9
Singing Telegrams
Love filled the air this Valentine’s Day as members of the 8th grade choir & high school choirs delivered over 100 singing telegrams to fellow students! High School serenade team included (left to right): Tyler Wykuis, Charlie Ferraro, Nate Wallace, Alex Wittkop, Aiden Knoll.
Learning Center - Helping Students Succeed!
The Learning Center is the place where Adult Education and Allegan Online students meet. It is located in the lower level of the Administration Building. Currently there are over 60 Adult Ed. students and over 30 Online students enrolled. This year 15 students have earned their GED Certificates and 77 Official GED tests have been passed. Two students have earned their High School Diploma. Many more students are expected to complete their High School education by the end of the school year. We also have students from Allegan and Hopkins who are behind in credits working in our center on credit recovery. This includes seniors who are hoping to graduate this year. It is a great place for students who need to complete their high school diploma after their class has graduated or who are not successful in the traditional school setting. If you know someone that needs to complete their education, call for more information. Allegan Adult Education - Age 17 through Adult for High School Diploma or GED Allegan Online – 6th through 12th grades, Virtual Online School Contact us at 269-673-5431, ext. 3054 or schappell@alleganps.org
Tech Awards
AAHS senior Max Sobeck won two medals at the Business & Technology Challenge, hosted by Baker College on December 16. He is one of several Tech Center students who dominated the competition and brought home the overall win for the Allegan Tech Center (ACATEC). Max tied for 2nd in Internet Search and his team placed 3rd in PC Troubleshooting .
FFA Award
Alternative High School student Alyssa Hicks attended the 87th Michigan Future Farmers of America (FFA) convention at MSU March 11-13. Alyssa will be receiving an Academic Excellence Award for having a cumulative GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Other AAHS NEWS: Holiday Dinner - Thank you to Immanuel Lutheran Church who graciously hosted our school again this year for a holiday feast before Winter Break. This annual event is the perfect reminder that there are many organizations and community members that care deeply for our students. Social Media - Are we FACEBOOK friends? If you are looking for more ways to connect with our school, “like” our Facebook page (search for AAHS Eagles) and follow us on Twitter #aahseagles and #AAHSexplore for updates, announcements, and celebrations of all the positive things happening in our building!
Allegan High School - 212 °
Students from Allegan High School who were recognized by their teachers for going “above and beyond” displaying good citizenship are pictured above. (Front row left to right): William Hedges, Weston Rife, Thomas Loftus, Christi Carlson, Anna Southwick, Lydia Huff;
(Middle row): Alexandria Archer, Miryssa Hill, Madison Poston, Rayanne WIlliams, Colton Fairbanks, Christian MacCartny, Joe Lajoice, Alex Looman; (Back row): Jennifer Wheeler, Trinity DeRidder, Brittany Croyle, Kierra McBride, Chase Borgeson, James Munger, Rielly Meade, Connor Mendell.
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AHS Writers Excel! Mackenzie Sturman (personal narrative) and Rose Artman (poetry) were Silver Key winners in this year’s highly prestigious Scholastic Art & Writing Awards competition. Their work was selected out of 1840 submissions.
These authors were among the 1,000 finalists in the Michigan Youth Arts Festival Writing Competition. Over 250,000 students across Michigan participated in this competition which included music, dance, theatre, creative writing, visual art and media arts. (Left to right): Rose Artman, Alexandria Archer, and Madeline Miller.
Congratulations to playwright Alex Wittkop! His clever one-act play, “W.H.O.’s Taking Care of Ebola,” will be performed by the Allegan Community Players on May 15 and 16 at the Griswold!!
Congrats to AP Lit students (left to right): Madeline Miller, Nate Wallace, Jacob Hansen, Connor Mendell, Mackenzie Sturman, and their English teacher, Nancy Hascall! Their poems placed in Kalamazoo Valley Museum’s Artifactory Poetry Contest, and were read at a special event held in February at the museum.
Mardi Gras Masks
The AHS French Club made masks as a fun Mardi Gras activity. Bailey Weaver shows off her creation!
Tiger Cart Cafe
Dawson Outstanding Students
5th graders Harleigh Wesche and Jason Schierbeek were chosen as this year’s Outstanding Students of the Year at Dawson. Their teachers Mrs. Burnett and Mr. Ouelette presented the award at the February board meeting. Page 11
Two days a week, the students in Mrs. Lugten’s life Skills Class sell coffee, tea, and homemade goodies to staff. Students work on employability skills, money handling, and communication skills.
In the Swim
While the February snow was falling outside, Allegan students were practicing their swimming techniques during 3rd grade swim lessons at the Aquatic Center. Pictured are North Ward students: Brycen Heckman, Peyton Keilman, and Riley Brown.
Quiz Bowl!
The Allegan High School Quiz bowl team of Connor Mendell, Matt Harris, Joe McClelland, and Max Clark tied for first place in the League and qualified for the State competition in Lansing in April! They won two round-table tournaments of more than 34 teams from 8 schools! Wish them luck at MSU as they test their knowledge of a variety of subjects against students from around the state!
5th grade camp Cooking Class
Students in 3rd-5th grade from all four elementaries have been learning how to cook with Chef Stephanie. In this after-school program, they are learning the basics of kitchen skills, such as chopping food, kitchen safety, and healthy ingredients. And their favorite part is tasting the yummy snacks they have created!
Students from the four elementary schools get to experience an outdoor camping experience at the Battle Creek Outdoor Education Center. Canoeing, campfires, and outdoor science games were all part of the fun! A big THANK YOU to the Educational Foundation of Allegan Public Schools for helping to fund this annual event for our students.
Ecology & Technology
Ms. Eichbauer’s Ecology Class is getting “techy”! Students used their netbooks to research and plan a Great Lakes Fishing Trip for a family of four. They had to include all the costs and develop a presentation on their findings. Students learned that our economy is just another reason to protect our wonderful environment! COLLECTING PLASTIC: Ecology students at the high school are also collecting plastic bottles, jugs, and containers to create an Earth Day sculpture! Page 12
Earth Day April 22
K.I.A. Art Experience 4th grader Alexander Ruis shows his painting.
Chinese New Year Students at North Ward Elementary enjoyed a visit from four Chinese students currently attending WMU. They gave the students insights into the traditions of Chinese culture by writing and speaking Chinese and helping students to make traditional decorations.
North Ward Elementary 4th grade classes were invited to the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts to participate in “Picturing America” where they had an opportunity to explore America’s past through works of art. They even got to create their own clipper ship piece based on their observations. The tour guides commented on the Ms. Licavoli’s student’s attentiveness and good manners! A big thank you to Pfizer, Santreece Foundation and Zoetis for sponsoring this event!
Primary Colors
North Ward 3rd graders making paper lanterns: Kya Holdeman, Samantha Mills, and Amara Peters.
Students in Ms. Sternberg’s Early Childhood class at Dawson Elementary mixed primary colors to make more colors!
Project L.E.A.N.
(Linking Education, Activity and Nutrition)
Pine Trails 3rd grader Jakob Whaley enjoying a “spa moment” before eating the cucumbers with cream cheese on a whole wheat bagel!
Mindy Sturman, Project LEAN educator from the VanBuren ISD, is on a mission to “bring healthy back”!!! She has been visiting various classrooms throughout the district to help students learn about healthy food choices and and staying active!
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Students from Amy Rogers’ kindergarten class at West Ward are: (clockwise, starting at “Grains” at 3:00, in pink) Jessica Babcock, Linkoln Dillon, Ellise Wedge, David Reyes, Sawyer Wedge, Gracey Wilkes, Patrick Ramaker, Leah Howey, Landen Geddes, Jayden Reed, and Oliver Burnett.
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2015 Spring Programs
Mark Mattox - Aquatic Director (ext 5507) Cathy Morgan, Rec. Offi ce Asst. (ext 5504) Pool Information: 673-7002 (ext. 5541) email: ard@alleganps.org
Open Swim: Everyone is welcome! Both pools are open, and swimmers may use the slide, lazy river, basketball hoop, and diving boards. Bring the whole family! Open Swim is offered on Friday night (7:00-8:30 pm) and Saturday afternoon (12:00-2:00 pm). Cost: $1 pre-K and younger / $2 K-12 and Senior Citizen / $3 Adults / $10 Whole Family. Lap Swim: Lap swim is available in the main competition pool at 3 different times: Morning (6:30 to 7:30 am, M-Th); Noon (12:00-1:00 pm, M-F); and Evening (7:30-8:30 pm, M-Th). Lap swimmers are welcome to borrow fins, kickboards or pull buoys. Cost: $2; punch cards for 10, 20 and 30 visits are available. Aqua Fitness: This class is for those interested in a low-impact, highintensity and total-body workout. Our expert instructor provides clear instructions for specific movements that target all your major muscle groups. M, W and Th: 4:00-5:00 pm; S: 10:30-11:00 am. Cost: $4; $35 for a 10 visit punch card; $215 for 6 month pass; and $380 for a full year. Family Fun: Come and enjoy our leisure pool area. Family Fun participants can use the slide, lazy river and any of the other amenities in our leisure pool area. T, W: 10:00-11:00 a.m. Cost: $1 per person Aqua Zumba: This class is for those interested in a high-intensity,
fun workout that incorporates dance-style movements. Our expert instructor will guide participants through a series of movements done to the beat of good music. M, W: 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. Cost: $7 or $50 for a 10 visit punch card
Senior Swim: This program makes our leisure pool area available to those 60 and over. Participants can walk with and against the lazy river current or use our warm water lessons pool. T: 3:00-4:00 pm; F: 10:0011:00 am. Cost: FREE
Swimming Lessons: Did you know that chil-
dren who learn to swim are more likely to succeed in school? Give your child the gift of water safety and a step up educationally. We offer regular swimming lessons as well as Parent-Child classes for children up to 18 months. Cost: $30 for 9 lessons, $55 for 18 lessons.
Allegan Tigershark Aquatic Club is getting ready for Spring and Summer sessions of competitive swimming. Groups now forming for ages 6 and above. See the APS website under Recreation/ Aquatics for details and registration form.
Other Recreation Programs: Youth Baseball
T-ball, Rookie, Minor, Major, and Pony Leagues now forming! Contact Matt Wendt (269) 686-6015 for information.
Girls Softball
For girls in 3rd-8th grade Contact Coach Lang (269) 673-5257
Summer Tennis
Lessons begin June 15. Tiny Tykes, Elementary ages, Middle & High School groups Also Mixed Doubles League (Monday evenings) Contact Coach Aldrich at ext. 4809 or jaldrich@alleganps.org
Rocket Football
Early Sign-ups: April 14-22 visit: www.alleganrocketfootball.com for information
Pool Rentals: Contact the pool office for more information regarding rates and availability.
Tri-Allegan Adult Swimming Group:
This adult swimming class will cover freestyle technique and training with an emphasis on preparation for open water, triathlon swimming. For adults of any ability level. May 11-July 15 (Mondays and Wednesday) Cost: $50 or $4 dropin fee. Page 15
Community Walk/Run on Track:
6:00 - 8:30 AM and 6:30 - 8:30 PM (FREE and open to the public - Court time may also be available for APS students only, during walk/run times) •Basketball and Tennis Court Rental ($15 per hour) •Contact Athletic Office at 673-7002 (ext. 5519 or 5520) or email mstofer@alleganps.org for questions or to make a reservation.
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).
Tiger‛s Den Preschool and Daycare
Allegan Public Schools offers a quality preschool experience for 3 and 4 year olds. This tuition program includes half day sessions on M-W-F for 4 year olds and T-Th for 3 year olds. Preschool is now enrolling for next year! Contact teacher Judi McCall about Tiger’s Den Preschool (6737002, ext. 3148 or email jmccall@alleganps.org). Our Tiger’s Den Daycare program offers a licensed daycare for preschool students in the Tiger’s Den half-day programs, or for all elementary students before and after school. Contact Sara Phillips (673-7002, ext. 3138) for information about daycare.
Current preschoolers Ainsley, Myles and Addison show off the animal headbands they made while learning about the rainforest!
Kids Hope USA
FREE PRESCHOOL in Allegan County Head Start & Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) Allegan County offers Head Start and GSRP preschool for income eligible families with children turning 3 or 4 years of age by September 1, 2015. Children of all abilities are encouraged to apply. Transportation may be available. Enrollment begins March 2015. For more information, call: 888.824.0032 or visit www.alleganaesa. org/earlyed.
AAESA Board Election
The Allegan Area Educational Service Area (formerly known as the Allegan County ISD) will have two open seats on its board of education to be filled at an election on June 1, 2015 (local school boards in Allegan County will each cast a vote). Interested candidates must file by May 4. Contact AAESA at (269) 673-2161 for filing information.
20 year celebration with North Ward Elementary at United Methodist Church Sunday, April 19, 2015 (9:30 a.m.) Guest Speaker: Virgil Gulker, Founder of Kids Hope USA An all-church potluck will follow the service Questions: contact Karen Rambadt, Kids Hope USA Director at UMC (269) 673-4236