School Matters Back-to-School 2014

School Matters

BACK TO SCHO O L 2014

Photos/JeSmile Photography

CONGRATULATIONS, CLASS of 2014!

2014 FALL SPORTS PARENTS NIGHT Wednesday, August 20 • 6:00 p.m. | Plainwell Performing Arts Center

SUPERINTENDENT’S VIEWPOINT

by Susan Wakefield, Superintendent

New Year, New Opportunities

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t’s a new year and with a new year comes new staff, new programs, and new opportunities. This fall, we will have 14 new teachers, a new high school counselor, a new food service director, a new middle school secretary, a new pool director and many new students. We are happy to welcome them to PCS and excited to see what each of them will bring to our district.

On the technology front, we continue to move forward. We have a new Student Information System and Gradebook database called Infinite Campus. This new program will look different than the prior program but will still provide the same access to attendance and grades. An important note is that access to the attendance and gradebook portals will not be available to parents and students at the beginning of the year. We need to ensure the integrity of the programming before we open the portals publicly – meaning we need to ensure that the student information is aligned with the correct parental information. As soon as we

are confident that the data is accurate, we will open those portals. You can expect an announcement on our website when the gradebook and attendance sites are available for you to use.

Our 1-to-1 technology plan is also moving forward. We have added iPads to a third class at the high school so ¾ of our high school students now have their own iPad. At the middle school, we have added three classroom sets of Chromebooks and we are enhancing our technology curriculum across the district.

Finally, there are so many opportunities for students that there is always something new to try. Be daring kids and get involved in something whether it’s volunteer work, clubs, music, or athletics. Some very important lessons learned in school occur outside the traditional classroom - and you’ll have fun!

We are so looking forward to another fantastic year. See you soon! n

2014-15 CALENDAR September 2

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

October 23

1/2 Day - All Students

October 24 NO SCHOOL

November 21

1/2 Day - All Students End of 1st Trimester

November 26 NO SCHOOL

November 27-28

THANKSGIVING BREAK

December 22- January 2 HOLIDAY BREAK

February 19

1/2 Day - All Students

February 20 NO SCHOOL

March 6

1/2 Day - All Students End of 2nd Trimester

April 3

NO SCHOOL

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SPRING BREAK

May 25

NO SCHOOL

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April 6-10

June 5

1/2 Day - All Students LAST DAY OF SCHOOL End of 3rd Trimester

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*Required make-up days due to school cancellation begin on June 8.

FOCUS ON CURRICULUM

by Bob Van Dis, Director of Curriculum

Ars Longa, Vita Brevis

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ith that title you might think we’re planning to add Latin to our curriculum. But this article isn’t about curriculum; it’s about something far more important to our primary mission as a school – which is our commitment in Plainwell to excellent teaching.

That Latin phrase Ars Longa, Vita Brevis is the first phrase in a famous classical text by Hippocrates, considered the father of medicine.

Hippocrates and his school of physicians lived in ancient Greece and were the first group to treat healing and medicine in a scientific and systematic way basing their treatments on observations, years of study, reading notes and texts,

PICTURE DAY! Cooper Elementary WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Gilkey Elementary WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Starr Elementary TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Plainwell Middle School FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Wednesday, August 20 for 6th Gr. Academy/Meet in the Middle

Plainwell High School THURSDAY, AUGUST 21 FRIDAY, AUGUST 22 Class schedule pick up dayes, details on page 7

Renaissance High School FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10

and consulting others. A far cry from the then current view of healing as something magical and superstitious.

The phrase Ars Longa, Vita Brevis translates as this: Life is Short, Art is Long.

By saying life is short, art is long, Hippocrates meant that a physicians career is short (40 years perhaps) and it is impossible for a doctor to learn everything he needs to know about the art of medicine – the craft, the skill of medicine just from his own experience. In order to successfully treat patients, a doctor must have a great deal of learning from others through books and consultation not only before she begins her practice but throughout her entire career. Successful doctors aren’t done with learning from experts and texts when they finish medical school and begin their practice; they must study and learn throughout their entire careers.

As we wind up over fifteen days of teacher training that we did this August, I am reminded of that phrase. For teachers, like doctors, life is short and their art – the art and craft of teaching - is long.

A teaching career is short – maybe 30 to 40 years, but the art of teaching – the skill and craft and knowledge it takes to master it cannot be learned in a lifetime career. No more than a doctor can, successful teachers cannot walk out of college and teach the rest of their careers just on their own experience, just by “learning by doing.” It takes a lifetime of reading, consult-

ing peers, watching others, and learning from experts to even come close to mastering the art and craft of teaching. Like doctors, teachers always have more to learn based on new research and new observations of what is working.

I can personally attest to this. After 35 years, I continue to learn new, more effective ways to teach students every year through reading, attending presentations by experts and practitioners, and by watching accomplished Plainwell teachers. It is a privilege that part of my job here is to be able to share that knowledge with others through teacher coaching and setting up or supporting district workshops on proven techniques to improve teaching and learning – workshops such as Quantum Learning, Explicit Instruction, Effective Teaching, Capturing Kids’ Hearts, Response to Intervention, and Mindset.

I am proud of the exemplary professional learning and development that we provide teachers in this district to support them in continually refining and expanding their craft and skill. Like a doctor, a teacher is never done with learning new things to make them better at their profession. As Hippocrates said almost 2,400 years ago is true today: Life is Short, Art is Long. No matter how long you teach (or no matter how long you practice medicine) you will be learning your whole career. This community should be proud that Plainwell teachers work extremely hard to grow more skillful in serving our students every year of their career. n

– OPEN HOUSE INFO – Plainwell Community Schools traditionally holds open houses early in the school year to provide families with an opportunity to meet school staff members and familiarize themselves with the environment in which their students attend school. Please note that these events are planned to be “get acquainted” times and not parent/teacher conferences.

Cooper Elementary Tuesday, August 26 6-7:30 p.m.

Starr Elementary Tuesday, September 9 6-7:30 p.m.

Gilkey Elementary Wednesday, September 10 6-7:30 p.m.

Plainwell Middle School 6th Gr. Meet in the Middle Wednesday, August 20 3 - 7:00 p.m.

Kindergarten Tailgate Wednesday, August 27 6-7:30 p.m.

Full School Open House Tuesday, September 16 6-7:30 p.m.

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Plainwell High School Wednesday, September 10 6-7:30 p.m.

Parents should gather in the Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m.

Renaissance High School Wednesday, September 10 5-6:00 p.m.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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Congratula tions RHS Class of 2o14!

lainwell’s Renaissance High School’s Commencement Ceremony was held on May 30, 2014. Superintendent Wakefield and members of the Board of Education presented diplomas to 40 graduates. Ransom District Library Youth Librarian and RHS Writer-Mentor, Joe Gross delivered an impassioned and emotional message of hope, inspiration and determination for this year’s graduates. As usual, pride in the form of smiles, tears and cheers filled the auditorium that night. Congratulations to Lauree Adams, Dylan Black, Lisa Blasdell, Anthony Bowman, Rita Boylan, Damien Bowser, Cynthia Brown, Alyssa Coombs, Tyler Cummins, Laura Currie, Lauren DeHaan, Colin Fillmore, Riley Fillmore, Brandon Graff, Selenice Guyton, Lindsey Hackenberg, Kirklin Hamlin, Donovan Hammock, Adam Herring, Ashley Hopkins, Brianna Johnson, Jorden King, Devin Lee, Allison Lindeman, Dustin Lint, Layne Locker, Austin McKee, Paige Mulder, Nicholas Myers, Austin Pinks, Shane Rice, Aaron Ringo, Jamie Rutherford, Justin Turner, Timothy Veysey, Rachel Webster, Trinidy Williams, Samantha Wolf, Audra Wolthuis, Morgan Woods.

2014 Plainwell Outstanding People for Education

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hree Plainwell Community Schools teachers have been honored by the Allegan County School Boards Association as Outstanding People for Education. They are (L to R) Plainwell High School English/Positive Psychology Teacher, Chase Mielke; Plainwell Middle School Math Teacher, Erin Bolda; and Gilkey Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher, Lisa Collier. Plainwell’s “Outstanding People” were presented with their awards at the ACSBA’s annual dinner held Wednesday, June 11, at Hillside Learning and Behavior Center in Allegan.

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FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION…

by Jeff McNutt, Director of Technology

Attention Parents!

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his fall we will be rolling out a new student information system called Infinite Campus. We are excited about improving the technology that houses all student household demographic information as well as schedules, grades and transcripts.

Due to the complexity of the data transfer and necessity of ensuring the integrity of the data, the parent/student portal that allows you to view gradebooks and attendance records will not be available to you at the beginning of the school year.

We need to test the data to confirm that student information is linked correctly. We anticipate that this work will take several weeks to complete after the start of the school year. When the portal becomes available, we will post a notice on the website. During that time, we encourage you to email your child’s teacher with any questions you may have regarding school work and attendance. It is important for us to protect your privacy and give you accurate information. Therefore, we appreciate your patience during this transition. n

COOPER ELEMENTARY.......349-2674 Jeff McNutt, Principal GILKEY ELEMENTARY.........685-2424 Martha Hymer, Principal STARR ELEMENTARY..........685-5835 Laurie Lanphear, Principal COMMUNITY EDUCATION & RENAISSANCE HIGH...........685-1573 Tammy Glupker, Director SAFE CHILD CARE..............685-3103 Jane Perry, Coordinator FOOD SERVICE...................685-2097 TRANSPORTATION..............685-8080 Greg Smith, Director

The PHS Athletic Department and Plainwell Boosters will be hosting the annual

NEW LUNCH PRICES for 2014-15

Milk

MIDDLE SCHOOL................685-5813 Gary Barton, Principal Tasia Stamos, Assistant Principal

ATHLETICS.........................685-2096 Dave Price, Director

FOOD SERVICE NEWS

Breakfast $1.40 Lunch Elementary $2.25 asic Lunch Secondary B $2.45 r 2 Lunch ie T y r a d n o c Se $2.80 ier 3 Lunch T y r a d n o c e S $3.00

HIGH SCHOOL....................685-9554 Jeremy Wright, Principal Debra Burley, Assistant Principal

FALL SPORTS PARENTS NIGHT

Applications for Free and Reduced Priced Lunches can be found by visiting our website: www.plainwellschools.org > Departments > Food Service > Free & Reduced Meal Information

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20 @ 6 p.m. in the

Performing Arts Center Booster apparel and PHS All Sport passes will be available beginning at 5:30 p.m.

General meeting at 6:00 p.m.

Individual sports meetings will follow.

Football • Volleyball • Girls Swim & Dive Boys Tennis • Cheerleading • Girls Golf Cross Country • Boys Soccer

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B A C K-T O - S C H O O L N E W S

First Day of School is... t

The first day of school is a FULL DAY for all students.

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Tuesday, September 2 All schools will be open for information beginning Monday, August 11.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

MIDDLE SCHOOL

KINDERGARTEN Plainwell kindergarten students will attend school according to schedules mailed home to parents by building principals. Parents who have not been notified by mail of their student’s kindergarten schedule should call their elementary school beginning Monday, August 25.

Kindergarten students who have not already registered should do so beginning August 11 at any Plainwell elementary school.

To enter kindergarten, a student must be five years old on or before October 1, 2014 and should have a legal birth certificate, completed immunization form, proof of residency and vision test at the time of registration. Parents will be notified by the schools of their child’s kindergarten assignment.

6th GRADE ACADEMY/ORIENTATION/MEET IN THE MIDDLE Meet in the Middle will be held Wednesday, August 20 from 3 to 7:00 p.m. Incoming 6th graders will have the opportunity to get their schedules, locker assignments, take school pictures, fill out important forms, and meet with representatives from food service and transportation.

They will also be able to sample and purchase Goodie Factory popcorn, which will be our October fundraiser. See you there!

Cooper • Gilkey • Starr

Grades 6, 7 & 8

GRADES 1-5 Tuesday, September 2 will be a full day of school for grades 1-5.

Elementary starting and dismissal times are: First Bell

Dismissal

1/2 Day

Cooper

8:20 a.m.

3:25 p.m.

11:40 a.m.

Gilkey

8:20 a.m.

3:25 p.m.

11:40 a.m.

Starr

8:30 a.m.

3:35 p.m.

11:50 a.m.

Due to adult supervision schedules, elementary parents are cautioned that students at Gilkey and Cooper should not arrive at school more than five minutes before the first bell, and Starr students no more than 15 minutes before the first bell (except that students who receive breakfast at school should arrive 20 minutes before the bell). Students previously enrolled need not contact their schools before opening day.

PARENT GROUP MEETINGS Cooper Elementary 3rd Thursday Gilkey Elementary 2nd Thursday Starr Elementary 3rd Tuesday 6

Your attendance is welcome!

6:30 p.m. Cooper Library 6:30 p.m. Gilkey Library 6:30 p.m. Starr Media Center

WELCOME NEW STAFF MEMBERS Plainwell Middle School is excited to welcome our new staff members!

Heather Damick is joining our science team and will be teaching 7th & 8th grade science and STEM this year. Mrs. Damick has curriculum development experience and has created biotechnology curriculum with an emphasis on laboratory experiences and hands-on learning.

Bob Klocke joins us as our Computer Technology/Robotics teacher. Mr. Klocke has a Master of Arts in Educational Technology and has served on the St. Joseph County ISD Instructional Technology Vision Committee. Erin Gilbert will be our new Choir teacher. Ms. Gilbert joins our staff with a background in vocal music and English with an emphasis in creative writing.

MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS Our STEM Academy will officially debut this school year. The STEM Academy is designed to provide students opportunities to research, problem solve, design, innovate and create in a collaborative learning environment integrated with technology. In addition to our new STEM courses, we will also be introducing our Michigan Exploration class.

This class will be available to 8th graders to explore Michigan’s history, geography, geology and legends through a project-based learning environment. We are continuing the implementation of our 6th Grade Academy, Teen Leadership, Capturing Kids’ Hearts, and Quantum Learning.

Once again, our Exploration and Support Center (ESC) will be open to students before school and during student lunch hours.

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL Tuesday, September 2 will be a full day of school. The regular school day is from 7:45 a.m. to 2:25 p.m. Middle School students in attendance at Plainwell Schools last year do not need to register early. Homeroom assignments will be posted at the front entrance of the school at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, August 25. Students will report to Homeroom at 7:45 a.m. on the first day of school to receive their class schedules.

Students new to the district in grades 6, 7 or 8, should report to the Middle School for registration beginning Monday, August 11.

MIDDLE SCHOOL PARENT GROUP MEETING

Your attendance is welcome!

Plainwell Middle School ESC (old library) 2nd Tuesday 6:30 p.m.

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B A C K-T O - S C H O O L N E W S

Bus Schedule Available... t

Monday, August 18 Due to some adjustments in pick up and drop off times, Plainwell’s school bus schedule will be available beginning August 18 at www.plainwellschools.org.

It will also be available at the Administration Office. After August 18, questions should be directed to the Bus Garage office at 685-8080.

PLAINWELL HIGH SCHOOL Grades 9-12

PARENT iPAD INFORMATION MEETING Tuesday, August 19 from 6-7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center.

FRESHMEN ORIENTATION & iPAD ROLLOUT Students report Thursday, August 21. All freshmen need to report to the Performing Arts Center at 9 a.m. for a “Trojan Pride” Orientation lasting until 1 p.m. Included will be schedule pickup, lunch, extra curricular activity information and grade expectations. Student photos will also be taken. Students should bring their completed picture packs with the necessary payment. An iPad information packet was sent home to parents regarding the distribution of iPads and the necessary paperwork. Each student will be expected to pay a deposit upon initial distribution of the iPads or provide proof of insurance per the guidelines provided in the letter sent home. The deposit is refundable upon return, either by graduating or by leaving the district. The deposit is $50 ($35/reduced lunch recipient, $20/free lunch recipient). This orientation is a student activity and parents do not need to attend.

SOPHOMORE SCHEDULE/iPAD PICKUP & PHOTOS Students report Thursday, August 21 between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m.

JUNIOR SCHEDULE/iPAD PICKUP & PHOTOS Students report Friday, August 22 between 9:00 and 11:00 a.m.

SENIOR SCHEDULE PICKUP & PHOTOS Seniors: Friday, August 22 between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m.

SCHEDULE CHANGES Drop & Add Dates: August 20-22. Schedule changes will not be permitted after August 27, unless a graduation requirement needs to be fulfilled.

RENAISSANCE HIGH SCHOOL 422 N. Acorn Street 685-9531 ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION Classes begin Tuesday, September 2.

Students will enroll in one of the following shifts, Monday through Friday. #1: 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (required for students under 16) #2: 1-6 p.m. All students will need a birth certificate, transcripts and complete immunization records to enroll.

ADULT EDUCATION & GED PREPARATION Classes begin Tuesday, September 2.

Classes will be held from 2:30-8 p.m. on Mondays and 2:30-6 p.m.

Tuesday through Thursday.

RENAISSANCE OPEN HOUSE

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL Students report to the gymnasium at 7:45 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2 for an assembly.

Students will then attend a full day of school with classes concluding at 2:25 p.m.

RHS will hold an Open House on Wednesday, September 10 from 5-6 p.m. Please join us!

NEW HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS The guidance office will be open beginning Monday, August 18 from 9:00 a.m. to noon and from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. for enrollment of new students. New students and their parents should study the course description booklet, and then fill out the enrollment and class selection form. These materials, along with last year’s report cards or grade transcript, birth certificate and immunization verification, should be brought to the enrollment appointment.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

HIGH SCHOOL PARENT GROUP MEETING 1st Wednesday (except June, April & September)

Your attendance is welcome!

7:45 a.m.

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Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held Thursday, October 23 from 4-8 p.m.

For enrollment information on any of these programs, contact the Community Education office at (269) 685-9531 or stop by the school office beginning August 18.

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SAFE & PLAINWELL CORNERS PRESCHOOL

Welcome to a new school year!

SAFE & Plainwell Corners would like to welcome new coordinator, Jane Perry! Jane has been with the program for years and is excited to be following in Nancy Gregory’s footsteps after her retirement. If you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact Jane at 685-3103 or jperry@plainwellschools.org.

Plainwell Corners Preschool & Daycare: Prepares your child for success!

A preschool offering a developmentally appropriate and fun curriculum (including Handwriting Without Tears) designed for toilet-trained children who are 3 or 4-years old.

Open Monday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Early Childhood Education Center, 307 E. Plainwell Street (next to Hicks Gym) for a $135 weekly rate or $37 daily rate.

Now offering a half-day (8:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.) rate. Half-day sessions for 3-year-olds are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays for $125/monthly. Half-day sessions for 4-year-olds are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays for $180/monthly.

SAFE: Before & after school care for your child!

A before and after school program providing a place to make friends and enjoy recreational activities, available for children from all three Plainwell Elementary schools.

Open weekdays from 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Gilkey and Starr SAFE meet at their own schools in the morning and are combined at Starr in the afternoon. Cooper SAFE will be held at Cooper. Rates are posted online.

Check us out on the Plainwell Schools Website > Services > Preschool & Daycare www.plainwellschools.org or call 269.685.3103 for more information.

We qualify for childcare tax credits, accept DHS payments and we are approved for Flex reimbursement.

Free Preschool 2014-2015 Head Start

Welcome New Board Members!

Welcome Julli Bennett and Shannon Zabaldo to the Plainwell Community School Board of Education! Both Julli and Shannon were appointed in late June, to fill two open seats which were vacated by Kevin Blue and Scott Corbin earlier in the month.

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Enrolling for Fall 2014!

Please call 269.673.2161 for a placement form or www.alleganaesa.org/earlyed

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REGISTER TODAY! 3 & 4 year olds

By October 1, 2014 Locations in Allegan, Fennville, Hopkins, Martin, Otsego, Plainwell & Wayland school districts.

LEGAL NOTICES for Plainwell Community Schools ASBESTOS HAZARD EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACT This notice is to inform the public about Plainwell Community School’s Asbestos Management Plan.

1. The Asbestos Management Plan contains information regarding the locations of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in all school buildings, the condition of the ACM and a plan for dealing with the ACM. This plan is on file at the Administration Office and in all the school buildings.

2. Reinspection: A reinspection of all district buildings is required by law every three years after implementation of the Management Plan.

3. Periodic Surveillance: Once every six months, ACM must be visually inspected for changes in condition. This inspection is performed by trained and certified school personnel.

ACM will be repaired if damaged and maintained by the District’s Operation and Maintenance Program (OEM). Those with further questions of concerns may contact the District’s designated AHERA person, Greg Smith, Director of Operations and Facilities at 269-685-6338.

STUDENTS, PARENTS REMINDED OF WEAPONS EXPULSION POLICY The Board of Education will not tolerate the possession of weapons by anyone while on school property or at a District-related event. In implementing this policy, Plainwell Community Schools will comply with Public Act 211 which prohibits students from possessing a firearm, dagger, dirk, stiletto, knife, mechanical device, iron bar, brass knuckles or other devices designed to inflict bodily harm while in attendance at school or a school activity or en route to or from school on a school bus.

This policy shall also encompass look-alike items, false fire alarms, bomb threats, and intentional calls to falsely report a dangerous condition.

The Superintendent shall prepare procedures to ensure immediate reporting to the parent and the local law enforcement agency after discovery of the weapon or the false report; and take proper disciplinary action with the student as provided in the Code of Conduct and AG5610.

The Gun Expulsion Law, Senate Bill number 966, calls for permanent expulsion of students who are caught with a weapon of any type on school property. Expelled students are able to petition to return to school. Fifth graders and younger may be reinstated in 90 days, students in sixth grade and above have to wait 180 days before being reinstated.

Local procedures shall also include immediate reporting to the appropriate law enforcement agency if a dangerous weapon is found or is suspected to be in the possession of a District employee or visitor.

STUDENT MEDICATION AUTHORIZATION POLICY Plainwell Community Schools shall not be responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of student illness. The administration of prescribed medication to a student during school hours will be permitted only when failure to take such medication would jeopardize the health of the student or the student would not be able to attend school if the medicine were not made available during school hours. Medication should be administered in the home, if at all possible.

For the purpose of this policy, “medication” shall include all medicine prescribed by a physician and/or any patented drug.

The total responsibility of dispensing or administering any non-prescribed (over-the-counter) drugs, preparations and/or remedies shall rest solely with the parent or legal guardian and that student. Before any medication may be administered to any student during school hours, the Board shall require the written request of the parent/guardian or the completion of a medical release for high school. This documentation shall include: written orders from a physician detailing the name of the drug, dosage, and time interval the medication is to be taken along with written permission from the parent/guardian of the pupil requesting that the school district comply with the physician’s order.

Only medication in its original prescription bottle, labeled with the date of the prescription, student’s name and exact dosage will be administered.

Asthmatic students may possess and use a metered-dose inhaler or other inhaler provided the student has written approval from the parent or legal guardian and health care provider and that written approval is provided to the principal or superintendent.

If you have further questions, please contact your school’s main office (or the high school athletic office).

TITLE 1 PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW In accordance with the requirements of the federal Title 1 law, parents of students in any school receiving Title 1 funds may request, and the District will provide, the following information regarding their child’s teacher: A) state qualifications, certification, and licensing criteria; B) whether the teacher is teaching under any emergency or provisional status; C) the undergraduate major of the teacher and the area of study and any certifi-

cates for any graduate degrees earned. In addition, parents may request the qualifications of any paraprofessional providing services to their child.

Starr Elementary is the only district school receiving Title 1 funds. Request for teacher or paraprofessional qualifications should be made in writing to the Starr Elementary principal. In addition, parents shall be notified of the level of achievement of their child on required state academic assessments and be given timely notice if their child is assigned to a teacher who has not achieved NCLB highly qualified status or if the child is taught for more than four weeks by a teacher who has not achieved highly qualified status.

ADVISORY TO ALL PARENTS Plainwell Community Schools has adopted an Integrated Pest Management program. Inherent with this are the District’s efforts to reduce pesticide use as much as possible. While it may occasionally be necessary to apply a pesticide, these will only be used as a last resort. This program does not rely on routine pesticide applications to resolve problems. We use various techniques such as habitat alteration, sanitation, mechanical means, exclusion, etc. to prevent pests from becoming a problem.

You will receive advanced notice of the application of a pesticide, other than bait or gel formulations at your child’s school. This advance notice of the application will be given 48 hours before the application. The law requires us to do this notification by using two methods. The first method required by law is the posting at the primary entrances to your child’s school. The entrances that will be posted are those entrances that have a sidewalk that leads directly to a parking lot. The second method we are going to use is the posting in a common area located by the main office of the school. Parents are also entitled to receive this notice by first-class United States mail postmarked at least 3 days before the application. If you would like to be notified by mail please contact the Operations Department at 269-685-6338. Please give the Operations secretary your name, mailing address and what school your child attends.

In an emergency (for example, bees nest), pesticides may be applied without prior notice, but you will be provided notice following any such application.

You may review our IPM program or pesticide application records for your child’s school by calling 269-685-6338 or emailing Greg Smith, at gsmith@plainwellschools.org. This number or email may also be used when school is not in regular session.

SAFE & DRUG FREE SCHOOLS & COMMUNITIES Plainwell Community Schools recognizes and abides by the standards of the Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Act and the Drug Free Workplace Act. These standards prohibit the unlawful manufacture, possession, use, sale, distribution, or concealment of illegal drugs and alcohol in school programs, school vehicles, school premises, and at school sponsored activities on and off school property. Drugs include all controlled substances as defined by law, as well as “look-alike” drugs, steroids, and alcohol.

These standards apply to all Plainwell Community Schools’ students and staff.

The use/abuse of drugs and alcohol poses serious health and safety risks to Plainwell Community Schools’ students. We urge students, parents, guardians, and care providers to work hand-in-hand with our district to ensure that these important standards are upheld.

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL LAW The Plainwell Community School district complies with applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It is the policy of the school district that no person on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, genetic information & testing, Family & Medical Leave, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, or veteran status shall be discriminated against in employment or educational programs and activities. In order to coordinate compliance activities and investigate complaints charging discrimination, the school district has appointed Superintendent Susan Wakefield as Civil Rights Coordinator.

Inquiries, complaints, or grievances should be addressed to the Civil Rights Coordinator, 600 School Drive, Plainwell, Michigan, 49080-1595, phone (269) 685-5823.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT Each year the Plainwell Community Schools is required to notify parents or students of rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). FERPA affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education

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records. These rights are: Right to Inspect: The right to inspect and review substantially all of the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. This right extends to parents under 18 years of age and to any dependent student age 18 or older.

Right to Request Amendment: The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading.

They should write the school principal (or appropriate official), clearly identifying the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

Right to Prevent Disclosures: The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the school has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); to a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility.

[NOTE: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent of eligible student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.]

Right to Complain: The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington DC 20202-4605.

Right to Obtain Policy: Parents have the right to obtain a copy of the policy adopted by the Board of Education in compliance with FERPA. A copy may be obtained in person or by mail from: Susan Wakefield, Superintendent, Plainwell Community Schools.

Right to Object to Release of Directory Information: Generally, school officials must have written permission from the parent of a student or an eligible student before releasing any information from a student’s record.

However, FERPA allows school districts to disclose, without consent, “directory” type information. The Board of Education of the Plainwell Community Schools has designated the following personally identifiable information contained in a student’s education record as “directory information;” student’s name, participation in officially recognized activities and sports; height and weight if a member of an athletic team; dates of attendance; awards received; honor rolls and scholarships.

The district will make such “directory” type information available upon a legitimate request, unless a parent, guardian, or adult student notifies the district in writing within 10 days of receipt of this notice. The written objection should list all types of information about the student to be excluded from directory information. The same notification requirement applies to high school students who do not want directory information released to military recruiters.

Upon such written objection, this information will not be released without the prior consent of the parent or eligible student. If no objection to disclosure is made, student names, photographs and directory information may also be posted on the school district’s website.

Your objections should be addressed to: Susan Wakefield, Superintendent of Schools Plainwell Community Schools 600 School Drive Plainwell, Michigan 49080

9

C O M M U N I T Y E D U C AT I O N & R E C R E AT I O N A Note from the New Plainwell Pool Director:

A Note from the Recreation Director

W

ow! Hard to believe another summer of our Plainwell Community Recreation Programs has come and gone.

I would again like to thank our many volunteers and the following sponsors: • Meert Farms • TMD Machining • ADD Vantage Self Storage • Steve Henderson & Son Construction • House Calls Repair & Remodeling • Plainwell Ice Cream • Hart’s Jewelry • Meert - Gauthier Concrete • Dadefon Properties • Reardon Automotive YOU ARE APPRECIATED! Be sure and monitor our website for our upcoming programs. n – Bob Farris

ANDREA MURPHY

H

ello! My name is Andrea Murphy and I am excited to be the new Pool Director for Plainwell Schools! I graduated from Plainwell High School in 2001.

I was a swimmer in the Plainwell Trojan Aquatic Club from my elementary years all the way through high school. I also swam for the PHS swim team all four year and I would help coach the Trojan Aquatic Club during high school and summers when I was home from college. I went on to swim at Albion College all four years and studied Physical Education with a minor in Geology. After college, I coached Hackett Catholic Central Women’s Swim Team. I was the Aquatic Director at Allegan High School for four years, head coach of the men’s and women’s swim team for six years, and head coach of their club team for three years. I have a six-year old daughter who attends and loves Gilkey Elementary. My family and I have been part of the swim community for years! My mother, Sue, has been the Pool Aide for 15 years. I am thrilled to be back working in the community where I started my career in swim and coaching. n

PCS FALL POOL SCHEDULE ‘14 Youth Swim Lessons

Noon Lap

There will be two sessions.

Each session will be four 30-min lessons. $50 per session.

Monday-Friday 12 -1:00 p.m. $3 per person or pass

Session I Monday & Wednesday Evenings Sept. 22, 24, 29 & Oct. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15 Times: 5:30-6:00 & 6:05-6:40 p.m.

Evening Lap

Session II Saturdays Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22 & Dec. 6, 13 Time: 10:00 a.m.

Swim Passes

Open Swim Open swim is for all ages.

Friday and Saturday Nights 7-8:30 p.m. $3 per person, $5 per family

Morning Lap Lap swim is for high school and adults only.

munity

Plainwell Com

reation Education & Rec

Monday, Wednesday, Friday 6-7:00 a.m. • $3 per person or pass

Monday & Wednesday 6-7:00 p.m. $3 per person or pass Use for Lap Swim and Open Swim only.

40 Visit Pass - $60 20 Visit Pass - $32 10 Visit Pass - $18

Pool Rental For any group or organization

$40 per hour • 1-30 people $50 per hour • 31-50 people $25 per hour for the lobby (Includes tables and chairs) Call 685-2425 for reservations or email amurphy@plainwellschools.org

A Gift for Program From Date E • PLAINW N STREET 422 ACOR

IGA LL, MICH

531 N • 685-9

ion & Recreation

munity Educat

Plainwell Com

Plainwell Community Education & Recreation A Gift for Program From

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE NOW! Date

E • PLAINW N STREET 422 ACOR

IGA LL, MICH

531 N • 685-9

ion & Recreation

munity Educat

Plainwell Com

REGISTER ONLINE @PLAINWELLSCHOOLS.ORG Visit www.plainwellschools.org. Scroll to the bottom of the Home Page and click on the blue & green RevTrak box. Click on the Community Ed & Recreation box. Click on desired activity. If you are unable to register online, call (269) 685-9531 or stop by our office at 422 Acorn Street (in the Industrial Park) for assistance. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Call the Community Ed. Office at 685-9531 A Gift for Program From

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Date E • PLAINW N STREET 422 ACOR

IGA LL, MICH

531 N • 685-9

W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G

C O M M U N I T Y E D U C AT I O N & R E C R E AT I O N

fall youth recreation INDOOR SOCCER K-5th Grade

This program is open to students (K-5th grade).

Players will be placed in a group based on grade (for example 1st & 2nd graders).

Each Saturday, the same pool of players will be divided up differently each week. Phone call reminders will not be made.

Please attend the practice on October 25 at the assigned time for your grade level.

Date: Saturdays • October 25-December 13 Time: 9:00 Kindergarten 10:00 1st Grade 11:00 2nd Grade 12:00 3rd Grade 1:00 4th & 5th Grade The following schedule is only for Saturday, October 25. Depending on the number of players that register, regular schedule will range from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: Hicks Street Gym Cost: $57 Instructors: Doug Beauregard & Brett Paige Deadline to register is Monday, October 13.

JR. HOOPSTERS BASKETBALL 3rd-6th Grade

Basketball for girls and boys.

Date: December 8* - March 7 Practices during the week, games on Saturdays

Cost: $57 Deadline to register is Monday, November 10.

We will NOT be accepting any late registrations, so please register early. *Tentative start date.

Specific dates and times will be determined and passed on to you by your child’s coach.

fall adult & family recreation

TAE KWON DO - Ages 7 to 107 for Beginners & Advanced Students

Tae Kwon Do is a 200 year old martial art and it is the national sport of Korea. It is a dynamic form of self-defense and an excellent means of physical fitness for men, women and children of all ages. This form of martial art includes physical techniques, mental discipline and a deep philosophy. Improve coordination, gain strength, and increase your flexibility while learning self-defense techniques from an ancient Korean martial art form. Tae Kwon Do is appropriate for kids and adults of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels.

Come by yourself, with a friend, or bring the whole family for fun and fitness. Class is open to all - age 7 and older.

Dates: Mondays • October 6 - December 1 Location: Plainwell Middle School Cafeteria Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Instructors: Huong Tran Cost: $42 individual, $67 family Registration deadline is Monday, September 22. NO signups at the gym.

ZUMBA® - Ladies Only Amy Baker is authorized to teach all of the following Zumba courses: Basic Zumba, Zumba Toning, Zumbatomic for Kids, Zumba Gold and Aqua Zumba. She has an amazing personal testimony of weight loss and life change. Now she makes it her mission to help others get in shape and lose weight. This is a year round class with no registration required and walk-ins are welcome. Zumba fitness classes are for ages 13 and older. Amy would like to remind participants that your hour of Zumba is an hour for you. No childcare is provided, therefore young children should not attend.

For more information, email acc4love@aol.com, visit facebook.com/zumbawithamybaker or www.amybakerszucrew, or call (269) 271-5045. No prior registration required.

ZUMBA CORE & GLUTES Dates: Mondays • Starting September 8 Time: 7:45 to 8:45 p.m.

Location: Hicks Gym, 311 E. Plainwell St. Cost: $5 walk-ins, 10 classes for $50, Any 20 classes for $80

INDOOR WALKING If the Plainwell Community Schools are closed for any reason, this program will be cancelled that day. Class will be running on time if the school system has a fog delay. Starting Monday, October 6, 2014 and running through Friday, May 29, 2015. Location: Hicks Gym, 311 E. Plainwell St. Cost: FREE ADULTS ONLY Dates: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays Time: 10 to 10:45 a.m.

FAMILY TIME Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays Time: 10 to 10:45 a.m.

fall seniors in action

JR. SPIKERS VOLLEYBALL 3rd-6th Grade

GOLDEN AGE PASSES

If you are 62 years of age or older, you are eligible for a Golden Age Pass. This pass entitles you to FREE admission to any home Wolverine Conference athletic event or lap swimming at the PCS pool, located at the middle school. To obtain your card, please stop by the Community Ed office at 422 Acorn St. between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday or the Athletic Office in the high school. Take advantage of this opportunity and support our athletes!

CONTACTS:

Jr. Spikers is a volleyball program for girls, grade 3-6. The goal of Spikers is to experience the sport, understand the rules and have fun!

We end the season with a Saturday tournament with Otsego.

Date: Oct. 13 - Dec. 6 • Mon. & Wed. Time: 3rd & 4th Grade Practice, 7-8 p.m.

5th & 6th Grade Practice, 8-9 p.m.

Location: Plainwell Middle School Gym Cost: $57 Deadline to register is Monday, September 29.

ZUMBA Dates: Sundays • Starting September 7 Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

THANKSGIVING DINNER

Join the students at Renaissance High School for a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner! Bring a dish to pass. Turkey, potatoes, gravy, table service will be provided.

Call 685-9531 to register.

Date & Time: Tuesday, November 25 at 11:00 a.m.

Location: Renaissance High School, 422 Acorn St.

CHRISTMAS BRUNCH

This FREE event is one you won’t want to miss with a delicious breakfast provided by Plainwell Community Schools. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Plainwell Volunteer Christmas Project. Register by Nov. 24 to attend, 685-9531.

Date & Time: Thursday, December 4 from 8:15 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Location: Plainwell Performing Arts Center, 684 Starr Rd.

Diane Slater, Community Ed & Rec., Seniors in Action Coordinator...................... 685-9531 Bob Farris, Recreation Director........................................................................... 685-9531 Andrea Murphy, Pool Director.............................................................................. 685-2425 Tammy Glupker, Director..................................................................................... 685-1573

W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G

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Board of Education

Amy Blades.......................................................................... President Kim Shafer.................................................................... Vice President Christine VanDenBerg.......................................................... Treasurer John Artz.............................................................................. Secretary Jennifer Loftus..........................................................................Trustee Julli Bennett..............................................................................Trustee Shannon Zabaldo.....................................................................Trustee The public is invited to attend all Board of Education meetings. Business meetings are held the third Monday of each month and workshop meetings are held on the first Monday, both beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Administration Building, which is located off Gladys St. between Starr Elementary and Plainwell Middle School.

THE PLAINWELL COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Non-Profit Org. US Postage

PAID

Plainwell, Michigan Permit No. 37

Plainwell Community Schools 600 School Drive Plainwell, MI 49080-1595

Published by the Plainwell Board of Education, Plainwell, Michigan 49080

** ECRWSS **

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION OFFICES • 685-5823

Postal Customer

Susan Wakefield......................................................Superintendent Bob Van Dis.............................Director of Curriculum & Instruction Melissa Gelbaugh............Director of Finance & Human Resources Jeff McNutt.................................................. Director of Technology Greg Smith....................... Director of Operations & Transportation Dave Price........................................................Director of Athletics

PLAINWELL HIGH SCHOOL 2014-15 FALL SPORTS SCHEDULE VARSITY FOOTBALL

AUG. 21 Scrimmages 6 P.M. 27 Dowagiac SEPT. 5 South Haven 12 Coloma 19 Edwardsburg 26 Vicksburg OCT. 3 Allegan Homecoming 10 Three Rivers 17 Otsego 24 Sturgis Varsity games start at 7 p.m.

H H A H A A H H A A

FRESHMEN/JV FOOTBALL AUG. 21

27 SEPT. 4 4 11 11 18 25 OCT. 2 9 16 23

9th Gr Scrimmage 2PM H JV Scrimmages 4PM H Dowagiac A Holland Christian 9 H South Haven JV H Schoolcraft 9 A Coloma JV A Edwardsburg H Vicksburg H Allegan A Three Rivers A Otsego

H Sturgis

H

Freshmen games start at 4:30 p.m.

JV games start at 6:15 p.m.

GIRLS GOLF AUG. 20

21 25

25

27

SEPT. 4

8

10

16

19

Gull Lake Invite @ Stonehedge GK @ Stonehedge Allegan Jamboree @ Cheshire Hills Otsego Jamboree @ Prairiewood Dowagiac Jamboree @ Indian Lake Hills Plainwell Tri @ Lake Doster South Haven Jamboree @ Hawkshead Sturgis Jamboree @ Island Hills A Three Rivers Jamboree @ Sauganash Middleville Inv @ Yankee Springs

A A A A A H A

A A

GIRLS GOLF

continued Plainwell Jamboree

@ Lake Doster H 25 Vicksburg Jamboree

@ Angel’s Crossing A 29 Comstock Jamboree

@ Eastern Hills A OCT. 2 Wolv. Conference Finals @ Island Hills A 6 M-89 Challenge @ The Lynx A 8 MHSAA Regionals @ Hamilton A Most varsity events start at 4:00 JV conference match sites depend on team size and availability. JV non-conference matches will be opposite sites.

24

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL AUG. 23 23 23 28 28 28 SEPT. 4 6 6 9 9 11 13 13 18 20 22 22 25 27 OCT. 2 4 9 11 11 11

13 16 18 20 20 20

Port. Central Trn V Port. Central Trn 9 Middleville Invite JV East Kentwood Inv V Gull Lake Mini Trn JV Schoolcraft Mini Trn 9 Hopkins Quad V Port. Northern Invite JV Port. Northern Invite 9 Gull Lake Mini Trn 9 Portage Cent Quad V Coloma BC Lakeview V Harper Creek Inv. JV Edwardsburg Portage Central Trn V Mattawan Quad JV BC Lakeview Quad 9 Vicksburg Gull Lake Invite 9 Allegan Kelloggsville Invite 9 Three Rivers H E. Kentwood Trn V JV Conf. @ Vicksburg 9th Gr. Conf. @ Paw Paw Plainwell Quad 9 Otsego Inv. Wayland Inv. V Parchment Quad V Plainwell Quad JV Gull Lake Quad 9

A A A A A A A A A A A H A A A A A A A A H A A A A H A A A H A

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

continued 23 Sturgis A 27 Gull Lake Quad JV A 29 Hamilton Quad V A NOV. 1 Conference @ Otsego A 3-8 Districts @ Allegan A 9th Gr. & JV games start at 5 p.m.

Varsity games start at 6 p.m.

BOYS SOCCER

AUG. 23 Portage Nrthrn Inv 9AM 25 Dowagiac 27 Kalamazoo Central SEPT. 2 Hopkins V, 4:30PM 4 Vicksburg 6 Eaton Rapids Trn 8 Harper Creek 10 Allegan 17 Three Rivers H 18 Portage Central 20 Hackett 10/11:45AM 22 Otsego 24 Sturgis 27 Mattawan 9/10:45AM 29 BC Lakeview A OCT. 1 Wolv. Conf. Trny.

TBD 6 Wolv. Conf. Trny.

TBD 8 Wolv. Conf. Trny.

TBD 14-19 Districts TBD JV games start at 5 p.m.

Varsity games start at 6:45 p.m.

CROSS COUNTRY AUG. 22 SEPT. 6 9 12 16 20 23 27 30 OCT. 4 7 14

17

Portage Central Invite Muskegon Invite Paw Paw Tri MSU Invite Sturgis Tri Bangor Invite Plainwell Tri Otsego Invite Plainwell Tri Allegan Invite Dowagiac Tri Wolverine Conf Meet @ Coloma Allegan Co Meet @ US-131 Raceway

A H H A A A H H A A A A H

A A A A A A H A H A A A

GIRLS SWIMMING AUG. 28 SEPT. 4 6 11 16 20 23 27 OCT. 4 7 9 14 16 21 28 NOV. 7,8 18 21-22

BC Harper Creek Inv Kalamazoo Central South Haven Invite Mattawan & Wayland Harper Creek DeWitt Inv. Sturgis Holland Christian Inv. Allegan Inv Marshall BC Lakeview A Allegan St. Joseph South Haven Otsego Conf. @ Allegan Diving Rgnls @ EGR MHSAA State Fnls

BOYS TENNIS

AUG. 27 Dowagiac SEPT. 3 Middleville 8 Vicksburg 10 Allegan 15 Three Rivers H 17 Otsego 20 GK @ Port North 22 GK Finals 23 Sturgis 24 Galesburg 29 Cross Over OCT. 3/4 Wolv Conf @ Paw Paw 9-11 Regionals

Mark Your Calendars!

A A A H H A A A A H A H H A A A A H A A H A A A A H H A A

HOMECOMING October 3 • 7 p.m. vs. Allegan Tigers

A

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT THE ATHLETIC OFFICE AT 269.685.2096