School Matters Winter 2012 by Plainwell Schools

School Matters WINTER 2012

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n Big Buddha My Hometow by Zhang Cao Boy, Age 7

Shaking Hands in Space by Zhang Cao Boy, Age 7

Hot Candied Hawthorn by Zhang Xiaoyu Boy, Age 6

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lainwell Elementary Art students will soon have the opportunity for their art to be shared with the People’s Republic of China. The Michigan 4-H China Art Exchange Project is a global education program that often uses the arts for both in-school and after-school learning experiences. More than 300,000 Michigan youth have participated in this project. Michigan K-to-6th-graders can learn of the many similarities between their lives and the lives of their counterparts halfway around the world, gain a sense of being part of one world, whether they live in Michigan or in Shandong Province of China all while having a significant learning experience that includes language, social studies and the arts. Plainwell elementary art students will create “visual letters” to children their own ages in China. Each school will be tackling a different angle of the shared theme of “A Letter from Home.” Gilkey Elementary’s theme is “I’d Like to Build the World a Home,” Cooper Elementary’s is “Pure Michigan,” and Starr Elementary’s is “Magical Michigan!” The students’ work will be submitted to the state of Michigan by art teachers, Maggie Flynn and Jackie VandeStreek. The State will select ten pieces of art to be sent to China as a gift to the children. n

D Y N A M I C P L A N N I N G U P D AT E Goals to guide Plainwell Community Schools into the next decade were created at a Dynamic Planning Education Summit held over four days in November with community and staff focus groups input in December. The four overarching goals that have been set are: Instructional Technology, Curriculum & Instruction, Quality Personnel, and Marketing & Communication. A meeting with facilitator Kay Cornell will be set in March to assist the Administrative Team and Board in moving forward with these goals.

2 NEW SHOWS ANNOUNCED! Theatreworks USA presents

Junie B. Jones

a musical based on the books by Barbara Park

SUNDAY, APRIL 29 2 p.m. & 4 p.m.

PLAINWELL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Watch our Website for Ticket Info!

BOB FARRIS: MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR • PG. 10

SUPERINTENDENT’S VIEWPOINT by Susan Wakefield, Superintendent

Five by Five S

pring is just around the corner and in a few weeks, on April 11, Plainwell Community Schools will be hosting our annual Kindergarten Round-Up. Many think that this is the starting point for a child’s education but in reality, that process begins much sooner. The pre-school years are a time of rapid brain development and learning for every child. It’s a time for children to acquire a rich vocabulary, expand their imaginations, and develop basic skills that will set a strong foundation for their public school years. Children enter kindergarten with a wide range of knowledge and experiences and generally speaking, the more the better. Parents are the first, and most important, teachers. By talking to and with your children at every opportunity, reading books, and singing songs, you are ensuring that your children will have the verbal skills they will need in kindergarten. And parents aren’t the only teachers; grandparents, aunts, uncles, day care providers, and neighbors all have the potential to positively and dramatically impact a child’s cognitive development. It truly does take a community of caregivers to educate a child. At Plainwell Schools, we will be doubling our efforts to educate our community about the “Five By Five” Program. “Five By Five” refers to the five skills we would like every child to have

mastered by age 5 and before he or she begins kindergarten. By helping a child learn these skills, you are setting the stage for future academic success. The five skills are: 1. Say the alphabet 2. Count objects to 10 3. Rhyme Words 4. Print his/her name 5. Say his/her first and last name, his/her parents first and last name, address and phone number As you look at this list, you may be thinking that it is too advanced for a 5 year old child; but most 5 year old children can learn most of the items through informal, short, daily conversations. We also know that children develop at different paces so there will be a wide range of mastery of these skills. For example, a child may not have the motor skill necessary to print his/her name but is able to recognize his/her name when someone else writes it; or he/she may only be able to print the first letter of his/her name. Any skill development is good. The more you engage your child in conversations regarding these five items, the more likely he/she will be able to remember them. Make it a fun time, be silly, and really enjoy watching your child grow. n

“Parents are the first, and most important, teachers.

“

CALENDAR of EVENTS February 20 NO SCHOOL Teacher Professional Development March 5 NO SCHOOL MID-WINTER BREAK March 6 NO SCHOOL (K-10/12) Grade 11 ACT March 14 HALF DAY (K-12) End of 2nd Trimester March 30 SPRING RECESS NO SCHOOL April 2-6 SPRING RECESS NO SCHOOL May 28 MEMORIAL DAY NO SCHOOL June 13 HALF DAY Last Day for Students* *If necessary, required make-up days due to school cancellations begin June 14.

Preschoolers Learn Kindergarten Readiness Skills

reparing preschoolers for kindergarten is the focus of the Plainwell School Readiness Program (PSRP). Students attend four days a week either in the morning or the afternoon. A typical day includes time in small groups, whole groups, and in center-choice activities. Developing literacy skills is an important part of the program. The preschoolers are taught letter names and sounds while being made aware of the position that their mouth and tongue are in. This literacy foundation helps the preschoolers learn how to hear beginning sounds and make rhyming words. Building auditory skills to hear environmental sounds and letters in a sequence is another important skill that helps children learn how to read and write. Other areas such as math, science and music are also blended into the program each week. Developing social and emotional skills are as equally important as the academic skills. The children are given time each day to explore a variety of learning centers throughout the classroom. There are many opportunities to discover and enjoy hands on activities. This choice time encourages the preschoolers to learn how to problem-solve, share, and work together. Finally, some of the highlights of the week include the “specials” such as: art, gym class, outdoor recess, and library time. Teagen Wilson and Jake DeHaan are building a tower that is taller than they are and so proud of it!

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

FOCUS ON CURRICULUM by Bob VanDis, Director of Curriculum

1 to 1 Computing and the Interactive, Engaged Generation

ur adolescent students have grown up with technology as a major part of their lives. Everyday, they connect with their friends and family on Facebook, send scores of text messages, download music, browse the internet, and play interactive games. Maybe you’ve heard them called the digital generation. Recently, I have come to believe that today’s students would be better called the engaged generation or the interactive generation. Yes, they use digital devices everyday, but they use them to interact with others and to engage in things of interest to them. The challenge now for schools is this: how can we most effectively teach this engaged and interactive generation? Colleges have found the answer. Colleges harness the technology that students use everyday outside of class (and that many adults use everyday in their jobs) toward the mission of education. Consider that almost every student is required to have a laptop, netbook, tablet, or other mobile learning device. It’s where they take notes, interact with their teacher outside of class, do much of their research, create presentations and papers, and collaborate with other students on projects via Google Docs. My own three children have all attended 4 year colleges and not once in those collective 12 years have they ever physically handed in a paper. They’ve written many, but every one was submitted on-line and returned to them with comments the same way. The concept of every student having his or her own personal learning device (laptop, netbook, tablet, or smart phone linked to the school’s wireless internet) is called 1 to 1 Computing. This concept has been moving into K-12 schools over the past few years. A 2010 study by the National Association of School Boards found that 37% of school districts in the nation have launched some form of 1 to 1 Computing. There are three major goals for 1 to 1 Computing: • Improve Student Achievement – this is still too new for there to be many studies, but early studies show modest gains in writing and mathematics in 1 to 1 classrooms versus those without. One issue is that current standardized tests do not measure the 21st century skills that technology enhances. Skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, information literacy, communication skills, team work, and presentation skills. • Promote Digital Equity – giving every student a personal learning device creates equity, putting the students whose parents cannot afford a device for their students on par with those

whose parents do provide them with one (at least while at school). In fact, one way schools can stretch their dollars is to allow students to bring in their own devices, and the schools only provide devices for those students who do not have their own. • Enhance Teaching and Learning – when we teach with technology we get these already engaged and interactive students to engage and interact with what we are teaching. Lessons can be more rigorous and the instant access to information and communication with others afforded by the internet allows lessons to include inquiry, research, and collaboration. This aspect of 1 to 1 Computing links the way the interactive and engaged generation uses technology now to learn and communicate outside of school to the critical 21st century skills and important content we need those students to learn in school. This year, our district is piloting 1 to 1 Computing in our middle school science classes. Every classroom has 30 netbooks, able to access online content and resources through our wireless network. When it came time last spring to update our science textbooks, science chair Marty Green proposed that rather than use our budget to buy every student a costly textbook, we could instead purchase the on-line version of the book and class sets of netbooks. The on-line textbooks are more than just electronic books. They have many additional features for students such as tutorials, video clips, and links to other internet resources. Students can type answers to questions in their on-line workbooks or texts and e-mail them to their teacher. Students can take quizzes and tests on their netbooks and the teacher has instant access to the results in minutes. This pilot has involved a lot of training for teachers on how to teach most effectively with 1 to 1 Computing. Teachers need to learn about how on-line textbooks work, how to use Google Apps like g-mail and document sharing, and how to use other on-line resources and applications. And then, how do you most effectively teach this to your students? In this effort, we have had great help from Judy Hoebeke, a retired technology specialist and instructor from Caledonia who has had many years experience in how to teach in a 1 to 1 environment. This training and in-class coaching for teachers is absolutely critical for success with 1 to 1 Computing. Without training in how to teach with 1 to 1 Computing and especially how to manage a 1 to 1 classroom, you have simply dumped computers into kids’ hands and created a terrible distraction away from the teacher. W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G

With the knowledge we are gaining from this pilot, we have plans to expand 1 to 1 Computing next year. We hope to provide netbooks to all high school freshmen next year that will be loaned to the students to take home – just like a textbook. This will allow the use of the netbooks at home for homework, collaboration, and communication – making it very similar to the college environment. One concept many high school 1 to 1 teachers have used is called “flip the classroom”. Here’s what it is: Think of a traditional math classroom where the teacher presents a lesson on a concept, demonstrating how to solve the problems, and then assigns the students to do the solving of the problems at home – where in many cases, if they forget how to solve the problems they can’t get much help. In a “flipped” classroom, the teacher records her lecture and demonstration and puts it on-line. The students’ homework assignment is to watch the lecture (as many times as they need to), take notes, and e-mail the notes to the teacher. The next day in class, the students work on solving the problems, only now they can get the help and guidance of the teacher and collaborate with each other solving complex, real world problems. This concept uses technology to place the most rigorous part of the work – solving the problems and collaboration – in the classroom where the teacher can guide their work. What is our long range plan? If the budget permits and if it’s approved by the Board, we’ll go 1 to 1 with another middle school department and the freshmen next fall. Then we’ll add additional departments and classes until we have full 1 to 1 Computing for all secondary students by 2015. This gradual pace will spread the cost of full 1 to 1 implementation over several years, put us in good stead for a manageable refresh cycle, and let us concentrate on a smaller group of teachers for the critical training and coaching needed to most effectively use this technology. It will be hard work and cost money at a time when money is scarce, but we need to embrace the 21st century and teach our students here in school in the same engaged and interactive way that they are accustomed to learning outside of school. It’s how they’ll be taught in college. But when implemented properly, 1 to 1 Computing can enhance students’ learning of important content and give them the 21st century skills they will need to compete in the new global, information economy. n

HIGH SCHOOL NEWS Eight PHS Students Named to State Honors Choir

art SurPrize Macayla Wright, Watercolor

ight Plainwell High School Concert Choir students have been selected for the Michigan School Vocal Music Association’s State Honors Choir. The students that have been named are (L to R): Riley Anson, Ian Schwallier, Mitch Monroe, Kyle Veldt, Blair Kelly, Alex Dunham, Greyson Steele and Sean Griffin. This is the fourth time Senior Blair Kelly has been selected to participate. PHS Choir Director, Keith Cahoon, states that normally two or three students are chosen for State but to have eight students selected is truly an honor! The students put in long hours in preparation for the audition which was held at Western Michigan University. The State Honors Choir performed at Grand Rapids’ DeVos Hall in late January. Amazingly enough, five of these students have gone on as members of the prestigious All State Honors Choir. Blair Kelly, Riley Anson, Kyle Veldt, Ian Schwallier and Alex Dunham will perform at the Michigan Youth Arts Festival at Miller Auditorium in May. This is the highest possible level to achieve individually as a member of a choir in the state. Congratulations to each of you - thanks for making the Plainwell community proud! n

PCS igh School Plainwell H

HONORS

Diploma

PHS to Offer Honors Diploma beginning in 2012-13

HS has announced that beginning next school year receiving an Honors Diploma will be an option for graduates. The purpose of the Honors Diploma is to encourage and reward students who pursue a rigorous, advanced course of study during the high school years. It is established as a part of PCS’ plan for academic excellence and is available to all students who wish to pursue the challenge of the Honors Diploma. Earning this diploma requires a student to complete: • a minimum of five (5) AP courses • at least one AP course in each core subject: English, Math, Science and Social Studies • maintain at least a 3.0 gpa on all core courses • meet all other Michigan Merit Curriculum requirements • any other Plainwell High School graduation requirement

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For additional information, please contact the PHS Guidance Office at 685-9554. W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G

PHS held an Art SurPrize at the end of January. Thirteen participants entered works of art for the first Art SurPrize competition and works were displayed in various locations around the school. The Trojan Torch printed a map showing each piece’s location, artist’s name and a voting ballot for students to vote on their favorites. Art SurPrize winners were: Tiffany Wilde-Grile and Ellie Bingham tied for 3rd place and each won a prom ticket. Carissa Owen took 2nd place and won a yearbook. 1st place went to the team of Adam Licavoli, Nick Fisher and Tyler White. They split a $50 Meijer gift card.

Plainwell High School Presents “Annie Get Your Gun” March 23 • 24 • 25 “Annie Get Your Gun” the musical comedy about Buffalo Bill and his traveling Wild West Show will be presented in Plainwell High School’s Performing Arts Center on March 23, 24, and 25. The cast of 62 students were selected for the show along with 12 band members for the pit band. Cast in leading roles are: Lindsay Wiederhold (Annie Oakley) and Alex Dunham (Frank Butler). Secondary lead roles will be played by Sean Griffin, Chelsea Chamberlain, Blair Kelly, Riley Anson, Kyle Veldt, and Alex Corbin. Ticket information can be found on the Plainwell Community School’s Choir website in the near future.

MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS PMS National Geography Bee Winners

lainwell Middle School announces it schoolwide National Geography Bee champion and finalists. From left to right, they are: Alan Shultz, 8th grade (3rd place finalist), Hunter Donovan, 8th grade (schoolwide champion) and Meredith Snyder, 7th grade (2nd place finalist). The preliminary competition was held in each of the social studies classrooms. Each class winner participated in a final competition, with Hunter and Meredith participating in the championship.

Congratulations to our Champion and finalists!

Glitter, Glamour, Curls & Dapper Dads FAT H E R - D A U G H T E R VA L E N T I N E ’ S D A N C E

all! was had by e im t t a e r g A

he 30th Annual Father/Daughter dance was a HUGE success this year! It was one of the biggest turn-outs ever, with just over 450 girls participating with their dads or male chaperons. The music was hopping and the photographers were snapping all night. As the pairs and groups piled out at the end of the night, there were a lot of positive compliments, thanks, and smiles. The Plainwell High School Girl’s Soccer team even held a fundraiser of their own this year to “glam up” girls before the dance. If you were unable to attend this year, we missed you and hope you can make it next year!

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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Starr Elementary Announces Science Fair Top Scorers

tarr Elementary has announced the Top Scorers of this year’s Science Fair. These students were invited to the February 6 Board of Education meeting to share their projects.

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Pictured are (in no particular order): 1 • Naomi Delaet’s “Detergent vs. Pizza Sauce” 2 • Avery Peters’ “The Frequent Crystal Radio Frequencies” 3 • Nick Jackson’s “Rays to Watts” 4 • Valory McClintock’s “Rubber Bands for Energy” 5 • Nicole McClure’s “Artificial vs. Natural Light” 6 • Andrew Carper’s “Making Plastic” 7 • Emma Cushman’s “How Dense Is It?” Teacher Cynthia Kelly stated that “the kids worked independently at home, while we worked on the Scientific Method in class. A lot of the ideas that they have - they’ve come up with on their own.” These projects will also be on view at Science Night at the Middle School which will be held April 18. n

Science Night

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April 18 5-7pm

Little Kids Can Do BIG Things!

atalie Knight’s first grade class at Starr Elementary wrote letters to Santa back in December and Miss Knight took them all the way to Macy’s department store in Chicago. Macy’s donates $1 for every letter (up to $1,000,000) a child writes to Santa as part of their “Believe” campaign which benefits the Make-A-Wish foundation. Macy’s then delivers the letters to the post office for delivery to the North Pole. Miss Knight said, “The children were very excited to write the letters and know they were helping people less forunate. I’ve tried to instill in my students that little kids can do big things!”

Miss Knight makes sure the classes’ letters all make it safely into the Santa Mailbox at Macy’s in Chicago. Macy’s received 1,463,819 letters this past holiday season.

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

E L E M E N TA RY S C H O O L N E W S

Gilkey Elementary Takes Part in 2012 Block Kids Building Program

G I L K E Y • C O O P E R • S TA R R

{ Pictured are the 201 2 Block Kids Building Program winners (from L to R): 4th Gra de, Travis Barrett; 1st Grade, Gabriel Schoonhoyen; 2nd Gra de, Sam Rewa; 3rd Grade, Darragh Hills; 6th Grade, Mikah Havenaar; 5th Grade, Naomi Lutz; 5th Grade/3rd Place Overa ll, Ian Granzow; 4th Grade/2nd Place Overall, Megan Wrigh t; 5th Grade/1st Place Overall, Nathan Rachel

his year Gilkey Elementary took part in the National Association of Women in Construction’s (NAWIC) 2012 Block Kids Building Program. The NAWIC Education Foundation K-12 programs are designed to make students aware of rewarding career opportunities available to them in the construction industry. Construction is the largest industry in the world employing more people in the United States than any other industry. The Block Kids Program was created in 1990 to introduce 1st through 6th graders to the construction industry. Since launching the program more than 300,000 children have participated in the United States. 68 Gilkey students participated in the program while 32 community members volunteered as judges and helpers. Thanks to all who helped make this day special for our students! n 1st Place Overall Winner, Nathan Rachel’s construction. Nathan built a crane with wrecking ball demolishing a building while a bulldozer moves the building pieces out of the way.

Gilkey Elementary Teams up to Fight Heart Disease!

hile the students at Gilkey Elementary were warming up for their Jump Rope and Hoops for Heart events, the staff ordered shirts as part of the American Heart Association (AHA) fundraiser and wore them as part of their “Red Friday.” The shirts state that, “Saving a Life is a Real Sport.” Students and staff know that by giving to the AHA, they can help others fight against heart disease while learning about their own health. Research shows that 80% of all heart attacks are preventable and these activities spark conversation about being more heart healthy!

Get Heart Smart, visit www.Heart.org for more information 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 A NOTE FROM THE RECREATION DIRECTOR:

Get Out and Start Moving!

ebruary...the time of year few people look forward to. Our “resolutions” are a distant memory, and clothes just don’t fit like they once did. Humans must be wired to hibernate because it’s really hard to get out and exercise right now. If this situation describes how you feel, you’re not alone. We’ll never be able to change Michigan’s winters, however we can get out and start moving. Walking, biking, and running opportunities are everywhere on our roads, sidewalks and trails. Be sure to wear bright, reflective clothing when venturing out. Tell someone where you are going, and bring a cell phone or friend for good measure. If you can’t find a partner to tag along, look up the Kalamazoo Area Runners, Run With Endurance, or Epic Crew on Facebook. They are all local groups who often run together. Borgess Run Camp is another great way to start running. There’s also local cycling clubs such as The Kalamazoo Bicycle Club. We are fortunate to have another resource here in Plainwell, the pool. Located in the Middle School, the pool is a busy place. Always supervised by a certified lifeguard, the pool has scheduled times for adult lap swim and family open swim. Check out the pool’s page on our website for the schedule. I have been impressed while out and about to see so many people being active this winter. If you’re not one of them, it’s never too late to start! If motivation is an issue, sign up for a race or an event. Many people depend on races and events to keep them on track. Have fun, be safe, and I hope to see you out exercising! n – Jason Herbert

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Plainwell Community Education & Recreation

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Providing a safe, fun event for the seniors following 31 graduation, Plainwell’s 2012 Grad Bash will continue to have “Dine to Donate” nights, the first Monday of the month through May at Applebee’s (except 4/2/12). In addition to the fundraising that has taken place and will take place, seniors that still owe the $100 fee can submit it to 2012 Grad Bash, P.O. Box 64, Plainwell, MI 49080 or placed in the “Grad Bash” box on the counter in the High School office. Please note that no student will be denied admittance to Grad Bash due to the inability to pay. Please contact Edie Nieboer at (269) 501-0555 or speak to a counselor in the guidance office.

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

Sponsored by Plainwell Community Schools and Gun Plain Township

YOUTH recreation

BASKETBALL SKILLS CAMP K - 6th Grade

This program is open to students K-6th grade. Each Saturday, the same pool of players will be divided up differently. Phone call reminders will not be made. Please attend the practice on March 5th at the assigned time for your grade level. March 3 - April 21, 2012 • Saturdays (No camp on March 31 & April 7 due to Spring Break) K, 1st, 2nd & 3rd Grade • 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. 4th, 5th & 6th Grade • 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Location: Plainwell High School Cost: $55.00 $40.00 Gun Plain Township residents ONLY Instructors: Coach Klein & Coach Rieman and staff You must preregister, NO sign-ups at Camp. Registration Deadline is Monday, February 20, 2012. $15 late fee will be added to any late registrations. Late registrations will not be accepted after February 27, 2012

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ALL AGES HUNTER SAFETY COURSE

This class is for all ages; boys, girls and adults are eligible to take this course. Hunter education in Michigan teaches safe hunting techniques, firearm handling and hunting ethics. The materials are provided for a maximum of 60 participants. Registration: Thursday, March 8, 4:30 to 5:00 p.m. DO NOT BE LATE! Dates: Thursday, March 8, 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Saturday, March 10, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.* *Bring a sack lunch and drink. Participants must attend both sessions to earn a certificate Location: Plainwell Middle School Cafeteria Cost: FREE Instructor: Organized by Bob Farris Questions? call 685-5813 ext.1416

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 HOOP FITNESS/DANCE CLASS

Welcome to Silver Hoop Groove Fitness/Dance — the hottest new fitness trend — incorporating FUN, technique, and weight-loss. Hooping is a fat-burning workout that incredibly strengthens your core, and calms your mind. Hooping is a no impact exercise using a larger custom made hoop that weighs about 1 ½ lbs. You can burn between 300 to 600 calories an hour. It has fantastic emotional and physical benefits. It is a total body workout. It reshapes your entire body. You cannot be in a hoop without feeling good and smiling. Each move you learn, builds a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Level One and Level Two are being offered together (Level Two is incorporating upper body). Please feel free to read Lisa’s blog at silverhulahoopdance.wordpress.com or Facebook page at Silver Hoop Groove. Time: 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Cost: $45 (hoops available to use at no charge) Hoops available to purchase for $20 at class. Date: Feb. 20 – Mar. 26 - Mondays (not meeting on Mar. 5th) Location: Starr Elementary Gym Instructor: Lisa Silver, Certified Hoopnotica Instructor Registration Deadline is February 15, 2012.

SUSTAINABLE SELF-SUFFICIENCE DISCUSSION GROUP

GO GREEN! Attendees will exchange ideas for lowimpact, “off the grid” living. Topics will include low cost, novel techniques for: • 12 month organic farming • Solar Heated Dwellings • Water Procurement • Green Living • and Related Issues Time: 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $45.00 Date: March 8th – March 29th (Thursdays) Location: 422 Acorn St (in the Industrial Park) Instructor: Stephen Sisson Registration Deadline is February 29, 2012

ADULTrecreation CROSS/FIT TRAINING (Round 2)

Newcomers WELCOME! It’s a new year and it’s time to get in the best shape of your life. Whether you are looking to tone up, bulk up, beast up or just push yourself physically, CrossFit is the program for you. CrossFit provides a challenging, high-intensity, high-energy workout that uses functional, wholebody movement to give you the best workout you’ve ever had. No matter what your current shape is, every workout is modifiable and scaled so everyone is challenged safely. Our community of fitness will help motivate and congratulate your success. So, come guarantee yourself of that New Year’s resolution and join a truly unique fitness program. Date: Feb. 20 – Mar. 29 (Tues. & Thurs.) 6 weeks Time: 6:00 to 7:00p.m. Location: Plainwell High School Weight Room (Park in the back of PHS) Cost: $ 35.00 Instructor: Chase Mielke Registration Deadline is February 15 , 2012.

HOW TO USE PREZI (the presentation of today)

Are you tired of lifeless, monotonous Powerpoint slide shows? Do you want to learn an exciting, dynamic, online program that can really put some zing in your presentations? Come take our Prezi class and “Wow!” your friends, neighbors, family members, co-workers, and potential clients with your amazing presentation skills. Sign up today for our convenient one session class! Time: 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Cost: $15.00 Date: March 1st (Thursday) Location: 422 Acorn St (in the Industrial Park) Instructor: Stephen Sisson Registration Deadline is February 22, 2012

Sponsored by Plainwell Community Schools and Gun Plain Township

WRITERS WORKSHOP

This class is continuing and invites NEW participants! If you have an interesting story bouncing around your cranium just dying to get out, maybe you just need a creative outlet. Come join the Tuesday night Plainwell Community Writers Group. We would love to have you join. Date: Feb. 21 - March 13 (Tuesdays) 4 weeks Time: 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Location: 422 Acorn St (in the Industrial Park) Cost: $30.00 Instructor: Stephen Sission Registration Deadline is February 15, 2012.

PILATES CLASS

JOIN THE FUN! The goal of this class is to guide you into achieving not only a more balanced and higher level of physical condition, but to be empowered and at peace in your own body. This Pilates class is being offered by an instructor with over 20 years experience and has been educating clients and teachers-in training in the Kalamazoo area. In 2006 she opened Counterpoint Pilates Studio in the Rose Street Market building as a fully certified Stott Pilates Studio based on anatomical knowledge to improve stability, strength, and mobility through Pilates. Prior to the founding of Counterpoint Elizabeth designed health and life performance programs for working professionals, people rehabilitating from injuries, and athletes. Time: 7:00 to 8:00 pm Cost: $120 = $10.00 per session or you can pay $15 dollars per class(bring your own mat or mats will be available to purchase the night of class for $23) Date: Feb. 20 – Mar. 29 - Mondays & Thursdays (6 weeks) Location: 422 Acorn St (in the Industrial Park) Instructor: Elizabeth Schmidt, Master Trainer for Stott Pilates Registration Deadline is February 15, 2012.

CONTACTS:

Registration can be made by phone, using your Master Card or Visa, in person at the Community Education Office or by mailing the registration form below to Plainwell Community Education. One registration per person.

Community Ed. & Recreation 685-9531

Name ________________________________________________________ Township __________________________________

Tammy Glupker, Director 685-1573

Child’s Age ________________________

Pool Information 685-2425

Email ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Jason Herbert, Recreation 685-9531

Activity _________________________________________________ Session # ________________________ Time _________

Renaissance High School 685-1573

Address __________________________________________________ City ______________________ Zip _________________ Grade student will be going into_______________________________

Parents Name __________________________________________________ Phone __________________________________

Activity _________________________________________________ Session # ________________________ Time _________

Activity _________________________________________________ Session # ________________________ Time _________ Master Card/Visa # _________________________________________________ Exp. ________/ ________/________ Please make checks payable to Plainwell Community Education. Mail registration form or stop by: Plainwell Community Education, 422 Acorn Street Plainwell, MI 49080. Office Hours are: Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Closed on Friday.

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AT H L E T I C D E PA R T M E N T

Plainwell Trojans Celebrate Middle School Athletic Director of the Year:

BOB FARRIS B

ob Farris has been named Michigan’s Middle School Athletic Director of the Year by the MIAAA (Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Administration Association). Mr. Farris will be recognized at the yearly MIAAA conference in Traverse City on March 19. He states: “I have been involved in athletics in one way or another in each of my 25 years of teaching. The past 20 years I have directed our athletic programs at the middle school. While growing up in Plainwell, athletics played a vital role in my all-around education and I appreciate the coaches and individuals who made those experiences possible. It is important to me to be sure those experiences are available for our students today. I would like to thank the many wonderful coaches and individuals who have been involved in our middle school athletic programs over the years. This award is a reflection of their time and dedication to the students at Plainwell Middle School.” PHS Athletic Director Dave Price adds, “I can truthfully say that Bob is at the top of the list. He not only runs the middle school program on a daily basis but he is also available to assist over here with our high school sports. His standards are high and he expects our younger athletes to realize that school sports participation is a privilege.” Congratulations, Bob!

ATTENTION: TROJANS! PLAN NOW FOR NEXT YEAR’S

ATHLETIC PHYSICALS SATURDAY June 9, 2012 9:00 a.m. to Noon • Boys Noon to 2:00 p.m. • Girls Cost: $10 Thanks to: Dr. Lewis & his staff

PHS LOCKER ROOMS Athletes: Please bring your physical card that has personal info filled out and signed by your parents to the June 9th physicals. Dr. Lewis and his staff will fill in the physical information area.

Celebrating Girls and Women in Sports! Plainwell High School Taking Nominations for 2012 Athletic Hall of Fame

n the morning of February 2, Plainwell High School celebrated National Girls & Women in Sports Day! Area Women in Sports Leaders participated in a panel discussion exclusively for female Plainwell High students who play and/or have ever played sports. Special panel guests were: Madeline McHugh (not shown), PHS Athletic Trainer; Kaycee Acree, WMU Volleyball Player; Carrie Brankiewicz, Owner, The Fitness Spot; Kristen Smith, Director of Athletics, Kalamazoo College; Colleen Munsen, Head VB Coach, WMU; and Carolann Davis, PHS Volleyball Coach. Also pictured is Deb Burley, PHS Assistant Principal. Thanks so much, ladies, for a powerful and inspiring morning! n

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ominations are now being accepted from staff, alumni, fans and community members for selection and induction into the Plainwell High School Athletic Hall of Fame, Class of 2012. Criteria and categories for nominees are: Plainwell High School Student Athlete, Plainwell High School Coach, and Plainwell High School Community Member. Please mail nominations and supporting materials by Friday, March 16, 2012 to: Dave Price, Director of Athletics, Plainwell High School, 684 Starr Road, Plainwell, Michigan, 49080.

COMMUNITY NEWS

SAFE and Plainwell Corners Preschool

t may be chilly but it is time to dream about summer fun! The Plainwell Community School’s Plainwell Corners and the school age SAFE programs are currently registering children for the following self funded programs: Plainwell Corners Summer Camp: Designed for children between 3 years old and completing Kindergarten. Located at the Early Childhood Education Center. Special guests, games, crafts and other fun activities. Plainwell SAFE Summer Fun Camp: Designed for children who are completing 1st grade through 5th grade in 2011-2012. Field trips, swimming, games, crafts and loads of other fun activities! Plainwell Corners Preschool & Daycare: Prepares your child for success! A Preschool offering a developmentally appropriate and fun curriculum designed for toilet-trained children who are three or four years old. Plainwell Corners is now a licensed year around program open Mondays - Fridays from 6:30 am until 6 pm at the Early Childhood Education Center at 307 E. Plainwell Street (next to Hicks Gym) for a $135 weekly rate or $37 daily rate. Now offering a half day rate. Half-day sessions for 3-year olds are offered on M & W for $125/monthly. Half-day sessions for 4-year olds are offered on T, Th & F for $180/monthly. SAFE: A licensed 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 am until 6 pm. Cooper SAFE will be held at Cooper. Gilkey and Starr SAFE will be at their own school sites in the morning and are combined at Starr in the afternoon. Rates are posted online.

Check us out on the Plainwell Schools website and click the Parents section. 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.

Kindergarten ROUNDUP! for Plainwell Community Schools

April 11, 2012 • 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. Gilkey Elementary School 707 S. Woodhams Street Open House • Drop-in Anytime Please call any of these schools for more information Brad Wyant, Principal • Cooper Elementary • (269) 349-2674 Martha Hymer, Principal • Gilkey Elementary • (269) 685-2424 Laurie Lanphear, Principal • Starr Elementary • (269) 685-5835

Packets may be picked up at any school prior to April 11th. W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G

Don’t Detour, Retour! Starting April 2012, MDOT will reconstruct and improve a two-mile stretch of M-89 from 12th Street to Florence St. through the City of Plainwell. The project will include removing cement base and replacing with asphalt, replacing the bridge over the Mill Race, eliminating the merging lane on eastbound M-89 near Harding’s, removing the concrete barrier separating traffic lanes on the bridge over US-131, the addition of sidewalks on US-131 and ending West Bridge St. where it intersects M-89 and Main St. The City of Plainwell will replace old water and sewer lines that run under the road and replace streetscape features in the downtown area. For more information about this $11 million federally-funded project visit:

www.plainwell.org/projects 11

Board of Education

Amy Blades.......................................................................... President Jennifer Loftus.............................................................. Vice President Kevin Blue............................................................................ Treasurer John Nyberg......................................................................... Secretary Al Moeller..................................................................................Trustee Kim Shafer................................................................................Trustee Christine VanDenBerg..............................................................Trustee

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

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION OFFICES â&#x20AC;˘ 685-5823

Susan Wakefield......................................................Superintendent Bob Van Dis.............................Director of Curriculum & Instruction Patricia Carr.......................................................Director of Finance Jeff McNutt.................................................. Director of Technology Greg Smith....................... Director of Operations & Transportation

** ECRWSS **

Postal Customer

The public is invited to attend all Board of Education meetings. Business meetings are held the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Administration Building and workshop meetings are held on the first Monday, beginning 6:30 p.m. at various locations. The times and places of workshops and special meetings are posted at the entrances of the Administration Building which is located off Gladys St. between Starr Elementary and Plainwell Middle School. Published by the Plainwell Board of Education, Plainwell, Michigan 49080

www.plainwellschools.org

PLAINWELL HIGH SCHOOL 2011-2012 SPRING SPORTS SCHEDULE VARSITY BASEBALL MAR. 28 29 APR. 13 20 24 27 MAY 4 8 11 15 16 18 19 21 24

Gobles Single Wayland Byron Center DH Paw Paw DH South Haven DH Three Rivers DH Vicksburg DH Allegan DH Dowagiac DH Comstock DH Galesburg-Augusta DH Middleville Single GK Tournament Otsego DH Gull Lake DH

JV BASEBALL MAR. 28 29 APR. 13 20 24 27 MAY 4 8 11 15 16 18 21 23 24

Gobles Single Wayland DH Byron Center DH Paw Paw DH South Haven DH Three Rivers DH Vicksburg DH Allegan DH Dowagiac DH Comstock DH Galesburg Single Middleville DH Otsego DH Delton DH Gull Lake DH

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

BOYS GOLF APR. 12 14 16 17 19 20 23 25 27 27 30 MAY 3 4 5 7 11 24

Paw Paw Jamboree Kalamazoo Christian Invite Otsego Jamboree Vicksburg Jamboree Greater Kalamazoo Invite @ Vicksburg Comstock JV Invite Dowagiac Jamboree Plainwell Jamboree Middleville ThornappleKellogg Invite (9am) Comstock Jamboree (4pm) Allegan Jamboree Gull Lake Invite South Haven Jamboree Gull Lake JV Invite Hackett Invite Three Rivers Jamboree Wolverine Conference @ Vicksburg

GIRLS SOCCER

MAR. 17 Olivet Scrimmages 21 Marshall Scrimmage 24 Plainwell Invite Portage Northern Hudsonville Unity Ann Arbor Skyline 28 Caledonia APR. 11 Portage Central 16 Gull Lake 18 Paw Paw 20 Battle Creek Lakeview 23 West Ottawa 25 South Haven 28 Williamston Tournament 30 Three Rivers MAY 2 Vicksburg 4 Mattawan 7 Allegan

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

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

9 Dowagiac 11 Portage Northern 14 Comstock 21 Otsego 23 Hackett

A A H A A

GIRLS TENNIS

MAR. 29 Wayland H APR. 10 Paw Paw A 12 South Haven H 13 Middleville H 16 Three Rivers A 18 Vicksburg H 21 GK Tournament A 23 Allegan A 25 Dowagiac H 30 Comstock A MAY 2 Gull Lake A 7 Otsego H 12 Conference Finals @ Three Rivers A Most varsity events start at 4:00 JV conference match sites depend on team size and court availability

TRACK

MAR. 27 Allegan APR. 10 Dowagiac 14 Hastings Relays 17 Comstock 20 Otsego Relays 24 Vicksburg 27 Edwardsburg Relays MAY 1 Otsego 8 Plainwell Jamboree 18-19 Regionals 22 Wolverine Conference @ Comstock 30 Allegan County JUNE 2 MHSAA Finals

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

VARSITY SOFTBALL MAR. 28 29 APR. 18 20 24 27 28 MAY 4 5 8 11 15 16 18 19 21 24

Gobles Single Wayland Hastings DH Paw Paw DH South Haven DH Three Rivers DH Gull Lake Tournament Vicksburg DH Otsego Tournament Allegan DH Dowagiac DH Comstock DH Galesburg-Augusta DH Middleville DH GK Tournament Otsego DH Gull Lake DH

JV SOFTBALL MAR. 28 29 APR. 18 20 24 27 MAY 4 8 11 15 16 18 21 23 24

Gobles Single Wayland DH Hastings DH Paw Paw DH South Haven DH Three Rivers DH Vicksburg DH Allegan DH Dowagiac DH Comstock DH Galesburg-Augusta Single Middleville DH Otsego DH Delton DH Gull Lake DH

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

*These schedules are subject to change!

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