Muskegon Public Schools Newsletter • Vol. 37 • January 2016

Muskegon Public Schools Newsletter • Vol. 37 • January 2016
Superintendent’s Message.......2
District Calendar.......................3
Vounteer Services....................4
MCEC Updates..........................4
Special Education.....................5
Muskegon Arts..................... 6-7
Winter Sports Schedule............8
High School........................ 9-10
Middle School.........................11
Curriculum.............................12
Technology.............................12
Elementary Schools.......... 13-16
Superintendent Felske on Funding our Schools
Keeping our tradition alive of providing quality schools to ensure strong communities, we are asking for your help.
In recent years this community has seen and experienced many challenges due to decreased funding at the federal
and state level. We as a community have made several difficult choices in order to stay true to our vision of the best
for every child, every day. Last year we asked for your support in a sinking fund ballot initiative and the feedback
we received was that the community wanted to know more about how the district intended to spend the funding.
We have heard you. Over the next few months we will survey our teachers and staff and have multiple community
conversations to talk about our district’s needs and priorities. As we step up together to create the best for every
child, every day, every voice needs to be heard. The Strong Schools, Strong Community Sinking Fund Initiative will
be on the ballot on May 3, 2016.
Some frequently asked questions:
Jon A. Falske
Superintendent
Muskegon Public Schools
• What are the district’s priorities? Many of our buildings need new roofs and plaster work. We also need to repair parking lots.
We will survey our staff and families to allow for input.
• Why now? The county millage helped offset many of our security and technology costs, but our facilities have long gone
unattended because we have needed to put the funding into our classrooms. Our kids deserve better and this funding would
make it possible for us to do important repairs to our facilities.
• .How is the sinking fund different than a bond issue? The Sinking Fund is different than other bond issues because it is a “pay
as you go” initiative, meaning you pay the tax each year and we have access to it that same year.
• .What major issues will be addressed? The major issues addressed with the funding will include: parking lot repairs, plaster repairs,
flooring repairs, windows, and auditorium ceilings. Other priorities will be identified based on the input of our staff and families.
• Are there educational benefits? Our staff are among the hardest working in the county and our students overcome tremendous
adversity to meet the educational challenges put before them daily. Both the staff and the students deserve quality facilities
that are environmentally conducive to teaching and learning.
• How much will it cost me? The average homeowner will pay somewhere between $12 and $75 per year. See the table below
for specifics.
House Market Value
$150,000
$100,000
$75,000
$50,000
$25,000
House Taxable Value
$75,000
$50,000
$37,500
$25,000
$12,500
Yearly Tax-One Mill
$75
$50
$37.50
$25
$12.50
Muskegon Public Schools has a long history of supporting and providing quality educational opportunities to tens of thousands of
students in the heart of the city. To overcome the challenges we face, we are asking the families of our community to join us and learn
more about the Strong Schools, Strong Community Sinking Fund Ballot Initiative by attending one of our community conversations*,
visiting our website at muskegonpublicschools.org or calling me at 231-720-2001.
• Please join us at any of the Community Conversations on the following dates at 6:30pm:
.
February 23 at Muskegon High School, March 17 at Muskegon Middle School, April 26 at Lakeside Elementary
– Certified instructors
– FREE hands-on training
– FREE college credit
– Job placement assistance
High School Juniors & Seniors–
See your guidance counselor to enroll
Call 231.767.3600 or visit muskegoncareertech.com @muskegontech
Located at 200 Harvey Street on the corner of Harvey & Stebbins next to the wind turbine
2 • JANUARY 2016 • MUSKEGON MIRROR • www.muskegonpublicschools.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
What is the McKinney-Vento
Homeless Student Assistance Act???
District Calendar
January 25............................No School for MMS & MHS - Records Day
Homelessness is an issue that continues to impact our communities
in Muskegon County. Nationally, over 1.6 million children will
experience homelessness over the course of one year, 42% of
them being under the age of 16, and 47% of them being African
American. These numbers have been increasing exponentially
since 2008. There are many reasons why families might find
themselves in a homeless situation: lack of affordable housing,
poverty, lack of employment or underemployment, domestic
violence, or other reasons.
January 25................................ Half-Day for Elementary - Records Day
Children are considered homeless when they
lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime
residence. These situations include, but are
not limited to: sharing residence due to loss
of housing or economic hardship, living in
hotels/motels, living in homeless shelters,
and being unsheltered. Research shows that
homeless children are more likely to suffer from
health problems, emotional and mental health disorders, and
developmental problems. Additionally, there are many barriers
faced by homeless children including enrollment requirements,
lack of stability in school, lack of school supplies, and lack of
transportation.
March 29-30.... Parent-Teacher Conferences at All Elementary Schools
The main themes of the McKinney-Vento Act are: school stability,
school access, support for academic success, child-centered
focus, and decision making in the best interest of the child. Under
this act, school districts must designate one Homeless Liaison that
helps carry out the rights of their homeless students. The Liaison
can help with enrollment issues, keeping students in their schools
of origin, transportation issues, and other supports. The main
focus is to reduce these barriers, giving each student an equal
chance at success.
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness and
have children in school, please contact Muskegon Public School’s
District Liaison at 231-720-2545 for assistance.
Reference: National Center for Family Homelessness, 2009. Michigan Department of Education, 2015
The Muskegon Mirror is
published three times
per year by Muskegon
Public Schools, 349
W. Webster Avenue,
Muskegon, MI 49440. Muskegon Public Schools accepts advertising
to defray the cost of production and distribution and appreciates
the support of its advertisers. Muskegon Public Schools does not
specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services.
To advertise in The Muskegon Mirror, please contact
Mark Williamson at (231) 766-3038 or email:
mark@orshalrdproductions.com
January 26...............Half Day - Professional Development for Teachers
February 10............................................................................Count Day
February 12-15....................................... No School - Mid-Winter Break
March 16-17................................. Parent-Teacher Conferences at MHS
March 16.................Half Day - Professional Development for Teachers
March 23-24................................ Parent-Teacher Conferences at MMS
March 25............................................................ Half Day - Good Friday
April 1-8..........................................................No School - Spring Break
May 27................................................................Half Day - Hackley Day
May 30.......................................................... No School - Memorial Day
June 9-10.........................................Half Days - Exams at MMS & MHS
BIG RED
Education Fund
The Muskegon Public School’s Big Red Education Fund has proudly
been supporting the work of Muskegon teachers since 1991. For
the 2015-16 school year, the fund granted almost $23,000.00 in
projects for teachers in the district. See the list of grant winners
for 2015-16 and watch for the grant application for 2016-17 to be
posted in September of 2016 to find out how you can be awarded
funding next year. Check out our web page: bit.ly/MuskegonEdFund
Karli Baldus Purchase................................. 3 tripods for the Broadcasting Class
Kelley Brickley............................................... Purchase Classroom Library books
Debra Krispin..................................................... Purchase drums and handbells
Bryan Kamyszek............................................ Purchase Classroom Library books
Emily Hoffman-Sperry............................. Create a tile wall mural/purchase kiln
Emily Hoffman-Sperry.............. Fund 2015 Fall Journalism Conference @ MSU
Jessica Louzon....................... Fund Early Childhood Special Ed. Home Program
Donyetta Hall................................. Expand Math and Science in the classroom
Dee Lakos......................... Purchase “Wobble Chairs” (Fund 4 vs requested 20)
Jennifer Fisher............. Purchase wobble chairs, foot rollers, light shades, etc.
Debbie Martin.......................Student visit to Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
Sarah Holliday............................................... Purchase Classroom Library books
Nancy Hammond........................................................Purchase Guitar Ukuleles
Michelle Emmorey............Promote Integrating movement - support materials
Nicole Robb.................................................. Purchase Classroom Library books
Elizabeth Knoll................. Music students work in sectionals - guest conductor
Teresa Huston...............................................................Purchase award ribbons
Chauncy Williams.......................Continue Young Men & Women of Excellence
Christine Martin...................Purchase Classroom Library books (10 classrooms)
Bill Goericke.....................Implement new course offering - Computer Science
Jessica Bailey...................5-day Mich. Mid. School Leadership Initiative Training
Kara Unger................... Learn leisure time skills (crafts, hobbies, building, etc).
Stephany Yack-Saavedra............................... Purchase Classroom Library books
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.muskegonpublicschools.org• MUSKEGON MIRROR• JANUARY 2016 • 3
From the Desk of Muskegon Public Schools Office of Volunteer Services
Role-models, helpers, problem-solvers… Heroes.
Parents, alums, retirees, local foundations and organizations.
Community leaders…Concerned community members.
These are words that identify and describe
Muskegon Public Schools (MPS) “Muskegon
Volunteer Partners” (MVP), people who
donate their time as volunteers to the
students and staff of MPS. During the
2014-15 academic year the MVP Program
participants provided more than 19,000
hours of service to the MPS Community.
Volunteerism is vital to the growth and
Kay Pittman
success of the educational process of
District Volunteer any school community, and it is certainly
important to us here at Muskegon Public
Coordinator
Schools. The MVP Program is the best way
to engage in volunteerism with MPS and to show that you care and
are committed to the enhancement of future generations of Big
Reds.
How do we show that we care about the future?
• We listen to a child read
.• We assist on the playground or in the lunchroom
• We tutor a child
• We mentor a child
.• We chaperone a class field trip or outing
These are a few small examples of the ways you can impact the
life of young Big Reds who are on their way to big, bright futures.
Perhaps you have a particular passion or skill that can open the
world of possibilities for our students.
You can use it to:
. Support Theater/Performing Arts events
•
• Support Big Red Athletics
• Support the JROTC Program
.• Support the Orchestra and/or Big Red Marching Band
One of the most valuable aspects of the MVP Program is the
interaction that occurs between students, staff and the community.
The MPS learning environment allows not only for the teaching and
learning of academic information, but also for the development
of social skills. What better lesson is learned than the lesson of
giving yourself in an effort to improve the quality of life for those
who share your neighborhoods and schools. MVPs help make that
happen.
The staff and administration of MPS receive the benefit of knowing
that they are both supported and appreciated by the time and
talents offered to them by our MVPs. We need your gift of support
to our building Principals and their staff members. MVPs help give
life to MPS’ mission statement “The best for every child, every day.”
We celebrate each and every MVP for taking time out of his or her
busy schedule to engage with and serve our students and staff. In
the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “…everyone can be great
because everyone can serve.”
Muskegon Public Schools MVPs are GREAT!! You too can be a
champion for our students by becoming an MVP. Say yes, and follow
these 3 simple steps:
• Complete a background check
• Complete an MVP Application
.• Once approved, attend the mandatory MVP Orientation Session
Together let’s:
• Build better school environments
.• Interact positively and effectively with MPS students
.• Grow in confidence of and concern for our school community
.• Recognize and support all of our MPS students and staff
.• Engage with stakeholders and friends of MPS
.• Dedicate our time and talents to our children
• Serve…and be great!
For further information regarding the MVP Program, please contact
Kay Pittman, Coordinator of Volunteer Services, at 231-720-2039
or by email at: tpittman@mpsk12.net
“They don’t care how much you know…until they know how
much you care!”
GO BIG REDS!
MCEC Update from the beginning of the 2015-2016 School Year:
The year started off great as we welcomed the addition of many new students! Our team of teachers
have appointed themselves to be more involved with their students compared to previous years -Check out everything they are doing!
•Mr. Davis has started a Computer Club after school on Mondays and Thursdays from 3:20 to 4:30pm.
This allows students to complete Achieve 3000 and online classroom work.
•Mrs. Bonnet has arranged to have free Zumba Classes, which are held on Thursdays from 3:30 to
4:15pm in the Gym.
•Mrs. Jackson and Ms. San Clemente have taken charge of our Student Council. The group of
students have arranged some activities that have been very successful. So far, they have organized
MCEC’s first Toys for Tots Drive and canned food drive, and planned a Staff and Families
Thanksgiving Dinner that was held on November 24 at 6pm. Over 70 guests were present for
food and fun. Many thanks to those who contributed to make the dinner a success!
4 • JANUARY 2016 • MUSKEGON MIRROR • www.muskegonpublicschools.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Special Education Retirees Spotlight
Carole Vennema began working with
Muskegon Public Schools through a grant
from Early On Childhood in November
1988. This was the beginning of the
collaboration with our regional neonatal
intensive care unit and the Muskegon
County Intermediate School District
that provided service for students with
deficits at an early age, as well as followup services for infants returning to our
Carole Vennema county. MPS and the MAISD were the
Special Education
original partners for the county program.
Retiree
After the grants ended, Carole was hired
by MPS to work with Early On, the Early
Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program and continue
building the collaboration between MPS and DeVos Children’s
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. She has been a dedicated
employee for almost 20 years.
Carole is not only a Muskegon native but also a proud graduate
of Muskegon Public Schools. In her retirement, she plans to
spend more time with her family (especially her grandchildren!)
who all live in Muskegon, finish the countless projects she
has started but has yet to find time to finish, and do some
extensive traveling. She will be truly missed by her MPS family
and the ECSE community.
“I have been fortunate to work with exceptional coworkers
in programs that provide needed services to our youngest
students and future students” - Carole Vennema
TL Lowe began his career with Muskegon
Public Schools in 1971 as an elementary
teacher at Angell School. During his
long tenure, he worked in the following
positions: Elementary Teacher, Resource
Room Teacher at the Elementary and
High School levels, Teacher Consultant,
Supervisor of Special Education, Director
of the Alternative High School, Director
of Summer School at the secondary level,
TL Lowe
Varsity Girls Basketball Coach, Assistant
Special Education
Varsity Boys Basketball Coach, Assistant
Retiree
Athletic Director, and finally Director of
Special Education. These various roles
allowed him to work in every building in the district.
TL left the district in July 2006 to become the Director of Special
Education with Coopersville Area Public Schools, where he
worked for over eight years before returning to MPS last year.
He returned to become the Director of Special Education, which
was a long time goal of his.
TL is a strong student advocate who has always found creative
ways to provide programs, services, and interventions to help
students build positive self-esteem and achieve their goals. He
felt blessed with the many opportunities he encountered during
his 44 + years in public education. TL dedicated his entire career
to the improvement of educational practices for all students.
Fellow staff were asked to describe him in one word and here
are a few of the most frequent responses: Supportive, Funny,
Encouraging, Student-focused, Calm, Reliable, Knowledgeable,
and Positive.
Mr. Lowe is retiring but not leaving the district. He can be found
helping out at the special education office, as well as working
with our girls and boys basketball teams.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.muskegonpublicschools.org• MUSKEGON MIRROR• JANUARY 2016 • 5
T
he arts are alive and well in Muskegon! Muskegon Public Schools has a proud tradition of arts education, providing classes in Visual,
Performing and Communication Arts. Each issue of the mirror will feature a different arts department within the system. This issue
will showcase the visual arts program. As students progress from elementary through high school, they are exposed to more and
more complex techniques within the framework of the district art curriculum.
High School Art
Four High School AP Art students recently took part in a local
competition at Reeths Puffer High School called Art in the Moment
Challenge. Competing against six other area high schools, the
students had five hours to complete a finished work of art. The
requirements were to incorporate the theme of “Out of Place”,
use two mystery objects provided by the hosts, use a piece of
wood as the base, and use five other objects that were chosen at
random. This year, Muskegon’s team took first place! The judge,
from the Muskegon Museum of Art, commented on the bravery
of the students for choosing the challenging and contemporary
issue of “Being Transgender” as their topic. The AP Art program will
proudly display the 1st place trophy for one year, until next year’s
students go back to compete as reigning champions.
Students pictured with winning piece:
Marria Davis (senior), Canya Herron (senior),
Jose Martinez (sophomore), Alee Clark- Langston (junior)
Middle School Art
In the Middle School Art classroom, students are experiencing
the Elements of Art through the exploration of different
mediums such as clay, oil pastels, printmaking with linocuts,
tempera paints, and watercolor paints. The most anticipated
project is always the tie dye t-shirt project, which will take place
in January. This project serves as an assessment for our study of
color theory, as well as being a fun and stylish way for students
to express their artistic abilities! If you are interested in buying a
shirt, e-mail ehoffman@mpsk12.net.
Elementary Art
In the Elementary Art classrooms, students start their exploration of art through the Elements of
Art: line, shape, color, value, texture, space, and form. These are the basic tools that artists use to
view, discuss and create art. Most currently, the students are learning about the color wheel and
how to use it to mix colors. They are also learning about the various color schemes that artist often
use. Groupings such as primary, secondary, tertiary, monochromatic, warm, cool, and analogous
colors. This study in color theory expands their knowledge of how they can use color in their own
works of art.
6 • JANUARY 2016 • MUSKEGON MIRROR • www.muskegonpublicschools.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Nancy K. Poppen
Program
Toward the end of the 2014-2015 school year, the Nancy K. Poppen Administrator,
Judy Johnson, walked through the hallway in the band room at the Middle School.
The thought crossed her mind, “Why would anyone want to come to these practice
rooms to practice?” because the rooms were quite colorless. Mrs. Johnson thought
about three outstanding Poppen students, who were very talented and always eager
to learn something new. She approached visual art instructor Hallie LeBlanc to ask if
she would be interested in teaching a summer workshop in painting murals. Hallie
was very excited about the possibility, as she has painted murals in schools as far
away as Ohio. They then asked the young men if they would like to attend a mural
workshop in July, and the rest is history.
Room #4 Designed and Painted by NKP Instructor The Nancy K. Poppen visual art students Jose Martinez, Bryan Mendoza and Cruz
Hallie LeBlanc and NKP Administrator,
Pena’ were told to approach the murals as if they had been hired as professional
Judy Johnson
designers for the project. Each student was to submit a music themed design for
approval. After the designs were reviewed the students then applied the suggested
changes and added detail to their designs for final approval. In addition, each student
was to choose a quote from a composer, musician or performer, to be framed and
hung in the student’s completed practice room. Painting began at the start of the
second week in July and was finished by the close of the week. They were hot, they
were sweaty, they were tired, and most of all, they were proud. And their instructor
was proud too.
On August 18th each of the young men presented their mural to the Muskegon
Middle School Principal, Paul Kurdziel, as their gift to the school.
Room #4 Designed and painted by NKP
instructor Hallie LeBlanc and NKP Administrator,
Judy Johnson.
Room #1 Designed and painted by
Bryan Mendoza, Sophomore.
Congratulations, Cruz, Bryan and Jose! You have given not only a lasting gift to
your school; you have set an example of what an enormous positive effect can be
achieved through the arts! Thank you Nancy K. Poppen for your ongoing gift to our
Muskegon Public School students.
Room #2 Designed and painted by
Cruz Pena’, Freshman.
Room #3 Designed and painted by
Jose Martinez, Sophomore.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.muskegonpublicschools.org• MUSKEGON MIRROR• JANUARY 2016 • 7
Boys Varsity Basketball
Friday.............01/22/16.......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Home ...7:30 PM
Tuesday .........01/26/16 ......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Home....7:00 PM
Friday.............01/29/16.......... Zeeland East H.S...................Away ....7:30 PM
Saturday.........01/30/16.......... Lansing Sexton H.S...............Home....6:00 PM
Friday.............02/05/16.......... Mona Shores H.S..................Away ....7:30 PM
Friday.............02/12/16.......... Reeths-Puffer H.S..................Away.....7:30 PM
Friday.............02/19/16.......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Away ....7:30 PM
Tuesday .........02/23/16.......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Away ....7:00 PM
Friday.............02/26/16.......... Zeeland East H.S...................Home....7:30 PM
Thursday........03/03/16.......... Loy Norrix HS........................Home....7:00 PM
Girls Varsity Basketball
Friday ............01/22/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Home ...6:00 PM
Tuesday .........01/26/16 ......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Away ....7:00 PM
Friday.............01/29/16.......... Zeeland East H.S...................Away ....6:00 PM
Tuesday .........02/02/16 ......... Benton Harbor H.S................Home ...7:00 PM
Friday.............02/05/16 ......... Mona Shores H.S..................Away ....6:00 PM
Tuesday .........02/09/16 ......... Godwin Heights HS/MS.........Home ...7:00 PM
Friday.............02/12/16 ......... Reeths-Puffer H.S..................Away ....6:00 PM
Tuesday .........02/16/16 ......... Waverly High School.............Away ....7:00 PM
Friday.............02/19/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S. ......Away ....6:00 PM
Tuesday .........02/23/16 ......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Home ...7:00 PM
Friday ............02/26/16.......... Zeeland East H.S...................Home ...6:00 PM
Varsity Wrestling
Saturday ........01/23/16 ......... GMAA Invite @ Ravenna........Away ... 9:00 AM
Wednesday ...01/27/16 ......... Quad @ Union.......................Away ... 5:00 PM
Saturday ........01/30/16 ......... Montague H.S. (Montague Invite) .Away ... 9:00 AM
Wednesday ...02/03/16 ......... Quad @ Kenowa Hills............Away ... 5:00 PM
Saturday ........02/06/16 ......... OK Black Tournament............Home... 9:00 AM
Varsity Bowling
Thursday .......01/21/16 ......... Mona Shores H.S..................Away ... 3:30 PM
Monday .........01/25/16 ......... Reeths-Puffer H.S. ................Home .. 3:30 PM
Wednesday ...01/27/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Away ... 3:30 PM
Saturday ........01/30/16 ......... Zeeland East Invitational........Away ... 8:30 AM
Monday .........02/01/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Home .. 3:30 PM
Wednesday ...02/03/16 ......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Away ... 3:30 PM
Saturday ........02/06/16 ......... Rocket Invite@ Reeths Puffer H.S..Away .12:00 PM
Monday .........02/08/16 ......... Mona Shores H.S..................Home .. 3:30 PM
Wednesday ...02/10/16 ......... Reeths-Puffer H.S..................Away ... 3:30 PM
Monday .........02/15/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Home .. 3:30 PM
Wednesday ...02/17/16 ......... GMAA Tourn@ Sherman Lanes ....Away.... 3:30 PM
Thursday .......02/18/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Home .. 3:30 PM
Saturday ........02/20/16 ......... Post-Conf Tourn@ Zeeland East ..Away ... 9:00 AM
Varsity Competitive Cheer
Saturday ........01/23/16 ......... Sparta Invite..........................Away.. 11:00 AM
Wednesday ...01/27/16 ......... Jamboree @ Reeths Puffer...........Away.... 6:30 PM
Wednesday ...02/03/16 ......... Conf Finals @ Mona Shores.........Away.... 6:30 PM
Saturday ........02/06/16 ......... Fruitport Invite.......................Away.... 6:00 PM
Wednesday ...02/24/16 ......... GMAA Invite..........................Home... 6:00 PM
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Boys Junior Varsity Basketball
Thursday........01/21/16.......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Home....7:00 PM
Tuesday..........01/26/16.......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Home ...5:30 PM
Thursday .......01/28/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Away ....7:00 PM
Saturday ........01/30/16 ......... Lansing Sexton H.S...............Home ...4:00 PM
Thursday .......02/04/16 ......... Mona Shores H.S..................Away.....7:00 PM
Thursday .......02/11/16 ......... Reeths-Puffer H.S..................Away ....7:00 PM
Thursday........02/18/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Away ....7:00 PM
Tuesday..........02/23/16.......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Away ....5:30 PM
Thursday .......02/25/16.......... Zeeland East H.S...................Home ...7:00 PM
Thursday........03/03/16.......... Loy Norrix HS........................Home ...5:30 PM
Girls Junior Varsity Basketball
Thursday .......01/21/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Away ... 7:00 PM
Tuesday .........01/26/16 ......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Away ... 5:30 PM
Thursday .......01/28/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Home .. 7:00 PM
Tuesday .........02/02/16 ......... Benton Harbor H.S. ..............Home .. 5:30 PM
Thursday .......02/04/16 ......... Mona Shores H.S..................Home .. 7:00 PM
Tuesday .........02/09/16 ......... Godwin Heights HS/MS.........Home .. 5:30 PM
Thursday .......02/11/16 ......... Reeths-Puffer H.S..................Home... 7:00 PM
Tuesday .........02/16/16 ......... Waverly High School.............Away ... 5:30 PM
Thursday .......02/18/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S. ......Home .. 7:00 PM
Tuesday .........02/23/16 ......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Home .. 5:30 PM
Thursday .......02/25/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Away ... 7:00 PM
Junior Varsity Wrestling
Saturday ........01/30/16 ......... Grand Haven JV Invite...........Away.... 9:30 AM
Friday.............02/05/16 ......... OK Black/Green JV Tourn@ Reeths-Puffer..Away.... 4:30 PM
Junior Varsity Competitive Cheer
Saturday ........01/23/16 ......... Sparta Invite..........................Away.. 11:00 AM
Wednesday ...01/27/16 ......... Jamboree @ Kenowa Hills.....Away.... 6:30 PM
Saturday ........02/06/16 ......... Fruitport Invite.......................Away.... 6:00 PM
Boys 9th Grade Basketball
Thursday........01/21/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Home ...5:30 PM
Tuesday .........01/26/16 ......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Home ...4:00 PM
Thursday .......01/28/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Away ....5:30 PM
Saturday ........01/30/16 ......... Lansing Sexton H.S...............Home ...2:00 PM
Thursday .......02/04/16 ......... Mona Shores H.S..................Away ....5:30 PM
Thursday .......02/11/16 ......... Reeths-Puffer H.S..................Away ....5:30 PM
Thursday .......02/18/16 ......... Grand Rapids Union H.S........Away ....5:30 PM
Tuesday .........02/23/16 ......... Kenowa Hills H.S...................Away ....4:00 PM
Thursday .......02/25/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Home ...5:30 PM
Girls 9th Grade Basketball
Thursday .......01/28/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Home .. 5:30 PM
Tuesday .........02/02/16 ......... Benton Harbor H.S................Home .. 4:00 PM
Thursday .......02/04/16 ......... Mona Shores H.S. ................Home .. 5:30 PM
Thursday .......02/11/16 ......... Reeths-Puffer H.S..................Home .. 5:30 PM
Tuesday .........02/16/16 ......... Waverly High School.............Away.... 4:00 PM
Thursday .......02/25/16 ......... Zeeland East H.S...................Away ... 5:30 PM
8 • JANUARY 2016 • MUSKEGON MIRROR • www.muskegonpublicschools.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
MHS Principal,
Arthur Garner
Athletic Director
Keith Guy
Research shows that students from low-income families are
less likely than their peers to graduate from high school.
Last year, 67 of our graduating class members were studentathletes. That means that 38% of the graduating class in 2015
participated in interscholastic athletics. Of that 38%, 100%
walked across the stage at the L. C. Walker Arena on May
27th and received their diploma. 100%! When I look at those
numbers, I can’t help but know that our program fosters
success. Our student-athletes are graduating, and by doing
so, they are positioning themselves for success after high
school and beyond. Whether they decide to attend college
or join the workforce, our student-athletes have developed
life skills, through athletics, that are needed as they progress
throughout life after high school.
Earlier I mentioned scholarships as being icing on the cake
in terms of those moving from high school athletics and on
to college. Of those 67 Senior student-athletes last year, 23
of them earned a scholarship to play the sport they love and
to get some (or all!) of their education paid for. That means
34% of our student-athletes earned some type of scholarship
to pay for their college while participating in basketball,
football, track, bowling, cross country, or soccer. In total,
we estimated that our senior student-athletes earned well
over $350,000 in scholarship money. With the rising costs
of college, that money helps get them closer to their
Bachelor’s degree and their dream of being a professional in
their chosen field of work.
As you can see, there are numerous ways to answer what
makes a high school’s athletic program successful. At
Muskegon High School, our formula for success is hard work,
dedication and commitment. We believe that if our studentathletes strive to be the best they can be, in and out of
the classroom, they will find greatness beyond the walls and
halls of MHS!
Dear Parent or Guardian:
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
I am often asked as the Athletic Director
at Muskegon High School, “what makes
an overall successful athletic program?”
Is it wins and losses? Yes. The number
of teams in the program? Sure. The
number of kids participating on a team?
Keith Guy
Absolutely. The number of all-state
Athletic Director
candidates? Always nice. The number
of scholarships our student-athletes
receive? Icing on the cake. A lot of questions, with each
small answer playing a role in the bigger picture. However,
the number one factor has yet to be mentioned. We base
our success at MHS on the number of student-athletes that
graduate and successfully move on to the next phase of
their lives.
It is with great pride and excitement that
I write this letter of introduction to you as
the newly appointed Principal of Muskegon
High School for the 2015-2016 school year.
I possess over twelve years educational
experience spanning grades 6-12 with a
Arthur Garner
strong focus in restoring priority school
status and reform. My most recent
Muskegon High
administrative experience has been shaped
School Principal
by five years of successful leadership as
Westwood Middle Principal (grades 6-8) in Grand Rapids Public
Schools and six years as high school Assistant Principal at Central
High School in Grand Rapids. I am excited to bring my skills as an
educational leader to your school and to work with you as a partner
in education to ensure your child’s success.
Muskegon High School is successful when our children grow
academically, socially, and emotionally. It is our desire is to create
a positive atmosphere for learning. Our goal is to fully implement
PBIS throughout the school. Our plan is based on PBIS—Positive
Behavior Interventions and Supports. Our staff kicked off this
program in November this year and our district for the past several
years. I have included the PBIS expectation matrix for support at
home.
I believe we will have a successful year as the administrative team
and staff. We embrace the challenges of the future while we
continue to cherish and celebrate the traditions of the past. During
the course of the year, it is my hope that we will work together to
provide the students the best and the high quality education they
deserve. As Principal, my door is always open and I welcome your
input concerns, and/or suggestions.
Go Big Reds! ~ Dr. Arthur Garner
Muskegon High School Special Events Calendar
January 28
Festival of the Arts, 7 p.m., Auditorium
February 17
Band Concert, 7 p.m., Auditorium
February 22
NHS Induction Ceremony, 7 p.m., Auditorium
March 21
Winter Sports Banquet, 6 p.m., Cafeteria
March 29
NHS Blood Drive, all day,
Redmond Potter Multipurpose Room - Public welcome!
May 18
Senior Honors Program, 7 p.m., Redmond Potter Gym
May 25
Senior Commencement, 7 p.m., Walker Arena
On the fourth Thursday each month, we will hold parent
meetings. Please check our website for details.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.muskegonpublicschools.org• MUSKEGON MIRROR• JANUARY 2016 • 9
MHS Counselors’ Highlights
STUDENT SCHEDULING FOR 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR
Counselors held class assemblies in December to review the online scheduling process with students. They will begin meeting with
students right after the holiday break. Students will be given a copy of their transcripts to review and help guide them in course selection
for next year. Parents can assist their sons and daughters by reviewing their choices, signing their course request sheets, and reminding
students to return them to the Guidance Office.
During the scheduling times, students will meet individually with their counselor. Counselors will be visiting Muskegon Middle School in
early February 2016.
COLLEGE CORNER
College Application Week was October 26-30. Seniors were able to complete applications and receive assistance from staff. 102 seniors
participated and over 300 applications were submitted!
FAFSA
Parents and students attended the Financial Aid Workshop on December 1. Nick Bromley from Grand Valley State University provided
pertinent infromation on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and different ways to pay for college.
Students and parents can begin to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as of January 1, 2016. This is an online
process. Paper applications may be downloaded at FAFSA.ed.gov or by calling 1-800-4-fedaid. Both the student and parent must apply
for a FAFSA ID number which will serve as their electronic signature. This replaces the PIN that was formerly used.
College Goal Events will be on Sunday, February 14, from 2:00-4:00p.m. at GVSU and on Wednesday, February 24, from 4:30-6:30p.m.
at Muskegon Community college. Please bring completed 2015 taxes or W2’S, Driver’s license and social security cards. There will be
raffles for scholarships and other great prizes.
SAT
The state of Michigan will pay for all juniors to take the SAT in April 2016. This will be the first phase of the Michigan Merit Exam. Juniors
will be able to send their scores to four colleges that they are considering.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Students should visit their Guidance Counselor and College Advisor to research available scholarships. They should also check the
scholarship showcase located in the Southern Street hallway. Scholarships will also be broadcasted on daily announcements. Here are a
few:
• COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP offers numerous scholarships for students. There is one application for multiple chances
for scholarships. Students may apply at www.cffmc.org.
• GERBER FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP will award at least one $2,000 scholarship to a Muskegon High School student. There is a
maximum GPA requirement of 3.7 to target average to above average students. Students can apply at www.gerberfoundation.org
• MICHIGAN COMPETITVE SCOLARSHIP is available for any student who attained a 23 composite score on the ACT. Students must
attend a Michigan public college and show financial need.
Other tidbits:
• Students in need of tutoring can get assistance every
Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday in the Media Center from
3:00 to 5:00 PM. In addition, they can schedule before and
after school tutoring time with their teachers.
• Angelo Hernandez-Sias is a National Young Arts Merit Winner
for Writing!
Accepting patients through
age 21 for medical, dental, or
behavioral health care.
Medicaid: Private Insurance, and
Sliding Fee Scale Accepted for
Appointments
Call 231-733-6680
TEEN HEALTH CENTER
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 7:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
(Closed 12:30 - 1:00 p.m. for lunch)
Wednesday 11:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Located in Muskegon High School J Building, Room E113
80 W. Southern Avenue
Offering Sports Physicals for ALL Athletic Sports
10 • JANUARY 2016 • MUSKEGON MIRROR • www.muskegonpublicschools.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Muskegon Middle School Principal, Paul Kurdziel
If you have had the opportunity to ride in a new car lately, you have probably seen some things that are very
different from cars upon which we grew up: keyless start, a touch screen for information, and keyless entry. Cars
have changed a lot! Education has, too!
It was not so long ago that a student’s education could be measured by the number of “papers” he or she had to
complete. Remember those days when you were sick and had to stay home, and your mom or dad would stop by
the school or a friend would bring you a stack of worksheets to complete? Those days are fast disappearing—not
unlike the old cars we remember!
Paul Kurdziel
Muskegon Middle
School Principal
Students in middle school are expected to do much more than ever before! In ELA (English Language Arts),
students use an online program called TeenBiz (Achieve 2000) to improve their ability to read informational text,
are expected to read novels on their own from classroom libraries and take (and pass) Accelerated Reader tests,
and write essays -- just to name a few things. In math, students work on grade-level mathematics as well as using
an online mathematics program called ALEKS (accessible at home) to practice what they need to know. These are
only a couple of ways things have changed from “back in the day.”
At Muskegon Middle School, the staff has worked together to focus District as well as State and Federal resources on improving student
academic performance. Any parent or guardian, for example, can use the login information given to students the second week of school
and again distributed at conferences to view student grades, assignments, and daily attendance. In addition, all students are tested three
times a year with the NWEA assessment, and the results are explained and distributed to students for goal setting and given to parents at
conferences. All these new tools will support student learning; however, the most important components are our students, their families,
and the MMS staff. Come in and see us, so you can see how much has changed!
The Michigan Middle School Leadership Initiative
The Michigan Middle School Leadership Initiative (MMLI) is a 5-day, overnight training
retreat for middle school-aged youth throughout Michigan. Muskegon Middle School
students have had the opportunity to participate in the program for the past 5 years.
Each year, 10 students are selected through a nomination and interview process, which
is determined based on their willingness to lead, potential leadership qualities that are
not already being exercised at school, and an interest in making a positive impact within
their school and/or community.
Throughout the training, the students are given concrete leadership tools that are to be
utilized in developing a Community Action Project at their school. The only parameter
they are given is that the plan must affect positive change in their school, and the rest is
up to the students to figure out once they are given the necessary tools to be successful.
Some examples of these “tools” include: consensus building, brainstorming, creating
SMART goals, and team building.
This year, the MMLI team has decided to create a more inclusive school environment
by making their daily announcements more enjoyable for the student body, and by
organizing pep assemblies that can be enjoyed by everyone. Their hope is to have input
from students as they plan these projects so everyone’s voice is heard. These students
are doing amazing work!
Pictured: Top row, from left:
Valentino Ledesma, Miguel Herrera, Becka Berson Tice,
Joey Dawkins, LaDaysia Hodges-Burks
Bottom row, from left:
Aaron Wright (MMLI Team Leader), Chase Williams, Sunshine Norris,
Tionne German, Cayla Hinkle, Jessica Bailey (School Advisor)
Muskegon Middle School • Special Events Calendar
Every Monday
Young Ladies of Excellence
3:00-4:00 p.m., Room 117
Every Thursday
Men of Honor, 3:15-4:00, Room 117
Michigan Middle School Leadership (MMLI) Meetings
3:00-4:00 p.m., Room 207
Every Monday, Tuesday & Thursday • After school academic support available,
3:00-4:00 p.m., Rooms 110, 112, 204, 224
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.muskegonpublicschools.org• MUSKEGON MIRROR• JANUARY 2016 • 11
What Community Members Need to Know
“Michigan replaced the 44-year-old MEAP test with the new
Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP). M-STEP
requires students to move beyond bubble sheets and multiple
choice questions to show their work. Students now have the
opportunity to demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, and
deeper knowledge through written responses. While these changes
will help ensure well-prepared students down the road, we know
the early years of implementation will be challenging as students,
schools, and districts rise to meet these higher expectations. History
has shown as standards are strengthened and the challenge level
of assessments improve, student achievement increases beyond
former expectations and scores.” ~Brian Whiston, Michigan State
Superintendent
After nearly 45 years of bubble-sheet testing, our state
is moving into the 21st Century with assessments that use
higher standards.
Last year, the state MEAP test, in place for generations, faded into
history. It was replaced by a new assessment called the Michigan
Student Test of Educational Progress, or M-STEP.
The M-STEP reflects new, higher standards for all Michigan
students in English language arts and mathematics. This is an
important change. Michigan students deserve robust, state-ofthe-art learning tools so they can be strong competitors in today’s
global, knowledge-based economy. The new standards are on par
with other states -- making sure that Michigan students graduate
career- and college-ready.
One of the most important changes with M-STEP is in how students
are demonstrating their knowledge. We’ve moved beyond bubble
sheets and multiple choice tests, expecting students to demonstrate
critical thinking and problem solving skills, showing their work in an
age-appropriate way. This helps ensure that students have a deep
understanding of the subjects -- not just memorized facts.
Test Results May Dip
This year, and the next few years, will be a period of transition and
progress for students, families and educators.
Our students are adjusting to a new form of tests. Our expectations
are higher, tests are more challenging and even the way that tests
are taken -- online -- is new to some students.
This year’s M-STEP results may be lower than students, families and
educators have become accustomed to. If scores are lower, we
simply ask families to understand that the scores reflect a period
of transition to new standards that are higher than ever before. We
are setting a new baseline this year for measuring student progress
and using a challenging test.
We believe it is appropriate to raise standards to the level of other
states and nations, if Michigan and our students are to remain
globally competitive in today’s knowledge economy. And we know
every parent wants his/her child to be as successful as possible,
just as we do.
The MI School Data website provides detailed information for our
district and schools. https://goo.gl/4niWeP
Cheri Millisor, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
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M-STEP
Technology
Department
On February 25, 2014, voters in Muskegon County passed a
millage to improve and enhance technology and security with
our schools. There has been a direct and positive impact at
every level for the students at Muskegon Public Schools because
of the millage. Schools in Muskegon County have been working
together to develop long term plans and implement technology
projects. Listed below is a summary of Muskegon Public Schools
completed projects as well as future projected plans.
Key Successful Projects (2014-current):
• Classroom and Learning Space Technology
• Increased classroom learning devices and chromebook carts
• Support and maintenance of classroom technology equipment (projector bulbs, replacements as needed, etc)
• Improved A/V capabilities in Nelson Library to support district wide Professional Development
• Infrastructure & Support
• Data infrastructure upgrade project - upgraded all district building network switches to support additional demand and growth
• Relocated the data center to the High School and added fiber connections to all buildings
• Technology support services improved
• Safety & Security
• Video and key card entrance systems installed in all buildings
• Video security cameras installed in all buildings
• Reconfigured building entrances to better route traffic into the office area
• Curriculum Content/Systems
• GoGuardian - Chromebook Management and filtering
• LANSchool - Windows Lab Management software
• Airwatch - Mobile device Management for iPads
• Professional Development
• Teacher training and conference registrations completed
• Pilot technology/blended learning program at Moon School in progress
Future Plans and focus areas over the next few years
include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Enhance safety and security systems
• Provide instructional delivery tools
• Increase access to technology for all students
• Annual costs of technology support including software subscriptions, projector bulbs, etc.
• Life cycle replacement for classroom A/V needs (projectors, sound, etc)
• Life cycle replacement for teacher, administrator and student devices
• Update phone system; safety and E911 compliant
• Provide ongoing and enhanced professional development opportunities for staff
• Additional technology and security initiatives to align with District and school improvement plans
12 • JANUARY 2016 • MUSKEGON MIRROR • www.muskegonpublicschools.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Lakeside Elementary Reads:
Be Awesome! Be A Book Nut! Dr. Seuss.
Lakeside Elementary took Dr. Seuss’ advice to heart during their buy one get one free book
fair which ran from November 30th - December 4th. Lakeside Elementary kept the UPS® driver
busy delivering books to restock the shelves because sales rocked!
The Book Fair featured many favorite titles like The Magic Treehouse, Captain Underpants,
Monster High, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. The team at Lakeside understands the importance of
variety to entice students to read and had a selection that appealed to students of all ages.
The book fair also
featured a wide
selection of books
in Spanish.
To encourage family reading, the book fair was open after school so parents could
come in and shop with their students.
The book fair wasn’t limited to just
student and parents - the staff enjoyed
picking out favorites, as well.
Lakeside
Elementary
will be
hosting
another
book fair in
the Spring.
Hope to
see you
then!
Lakeside principal, Mrs. Halverson, picking out
some favorites with a student.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.muskegonpublicschools.org• MUSKEGON MIRROR• JANUARY 2016 • 13
Oakview Elementary! All Shopped Out? . . . Nelson Elementary
Congratulations Oakview Parents! We appreciate your support
and committment to the success of our students. 88% of
our parents attended Fall Parent Teacher Conferences in
November. Parent Teacher Conferences are an opportunity
for parents to come in and find out how their children are
progressing and to learn about their strengths and weaknesses
in the classroom. Please save the date for Spring Parent Teacher
Conferences, March 30 and 31st, 2016.
Session 1 of Oakview’s Title I Extended Day Program has just
concluded. This afterschool program provides additional support
for our students in the areas of Reading and Mathematics based
on their performance on the NWEA Assessment. Students have
the benefit of working with a teacher in a small group setting
to improve their skills. Oakview’s Title I Extended Day Program
is held two days a week after school and is coordinated by our
very own Title I Intervention Coach, Mrs. Lauren Johnson.
Several of our students have become published authors this
fall. That’s right, our fifth and sixth grade students entered the
“Write For Fright” scary story contest sponsored by the Hackley
Public Library. Every year the staff at Hackley Library select the
scariest stories written by students throughout the county.
Those stories are printed in a Write for Fright! Booklet which
are distributed to area schools, and are available at the Hackley
Library. Our fifth and sixth grade students
who were recognized at the Author’s Night
Award Program on November 17 were
Kamiyah Ivy, Dashaya McBride, Tiondra
McDaniel, Krystal McGruther, Davion Sprivy,
and Tione Sullivan.
Our Young Ladies of Excellence and Young Men of Destiny
Empowerment Groups are off to a running start. The purpose
of the male and female empowerment group is to develop
both young men and women in the areas of educational
enhancement, character improvement, and community
involvement. This group provides insight regarding the
importance of self-respect and respecting others, the need and
purpose of higher education, and creating cycles that produce
productive citizens throughout the community. Students are
exposed to institutions of higher learning (trade schools,
community colleges and universities) and careers throughout
the year. Partnerships are formed within the community to
ensure our students are career ready. Team building activities
are facilitated to enhance problem-solving skills, fostering
positive peer relationships. Community leaders and guest
speakers are invited to share their knowledge and expertise
monthly. Students are expected to dress in business attire
every Wednesday. This group meets weekly on Wednesdays
from 3:45 - 4:40 p.m. For more information, please contact
our advisors: Ms. Tracey Knight, Dean of Students; Ms. Sherry
Chapman, 5th grade teacher; Mrs. Kim Simmons, 6th grade
teacher; and Mr. Chauncy Williams, 6th grade teacher at
(231) 720-2450.
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Great Things Are Happening at
The deals are still happening
at Nelson Elementary School!
The holiday
shopping
season
may have
ended, but
the deals
are still
happening
at Nelson
Elementary
School!
Last year,
the 6th grade students opened their very own school store.
The concept for a school store was brainstormed by the PTO
and brought to life under the direction of Mr. Curt Mencer, a
dedicated volunteer.
The store sells school supplies, small toys, games, jewelry, and
healthy snacks. The inventory is based on a survey that students
in all grades completed. The store currently has about 50 different
items in its inventory. This year, some Big Red themed items were
added to create a Big Red Corner. None of the items in the store
costs more than $3.00, with most selling for $1.00 or less.
In addition to the profits going toward the school field trip fund,
the students are trained and responsible for cashiering, inventory,
and marketing efforts. The store is open in the cafeteria every
Wednesday from 10:30-12:30.
The 6th graders are not the only students using numbers in unique
ways. This year, Nelson has introduced Math Recovery lessons to the
1st graders. Math recovery is an awesome program that focuses
on teaching students number sense. This program gives students
strategies to use to solve problems instead of just memorizing
facts.
During a typical lesson, students can be found working in small
groups. One group may be sharpening their counting skills with a
dice game while another is filling in missing numbers, and another
is looking at the relationships between numbers and symbols.
Ms. Katie Baglien, one of the two Math Recovery trained teachers,
stated, “My students are able to explain their thinking. For example
a student can tell me 8+2=10, because if I start with 10 and I take
8 away I have 2 left. This is not something that I have explicitly
taught, but they have learned through manipulatives and games.”
Mrs. Christina Martin, the other trained teacher, stated, “I see a huge
difference in students being able to explain their mathematical
reasoning when answering or solving a problem. They aren’t just
spitting out a fact. They are explaining the actual strategy they are
using.”
Administrators throughout Muskegon County have been visiting
Nelson Elementary School to observe Math Recovery in action.
Nelson is proud to be leading the way. Without a doubt, the 1st
graders will be ready to take the school store to new heights when
they become 6th graders!
14 • JANUARY 2016 • MUSKEGON MIRROR • www.muskegonpublicschools.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Moon Elementary
Glenside Elementary
Moon Elementary School began a pilot project with an
organization known as Communications By Design (CBD) in
the spring of 2015. The project, which was funded by the
recent technology millage and supported by grant funds,
is all about transformational instruction and integrating
technology into the classroom as it relates to student
learning. In August, Moon’s principal, Okeelah McBride
accompanied all of Moon’s teachers to a two day training
in Ada, Michigan about transforming classroom instruction.
Many aspects of student learning were explored including
classroom roles and setting, motivation to learn, purposeful
teaching, collaboration, delivery of instruction, and assessing
student learning.
Head Start is a free preschool program for children aged
3-4 years old for families that qualify. The families of our
students are provided support and assistance to help their
child have a successful school experience and prepare them
for kindergarten. Glenside Elementary School has twenty
Head Start Preschool classrooms.
The teachers worked with two of CBD’s professional learning
coaches during the training who led the teachers through a
discovery process that included learning about instructional
“tech tools” in a hands-on format. The idea wasn’t that they
would walk away from a two day training as an expert -those first two days were just the building blocks for teacher
learning. Since the training, teachers have continued to meet
with CBD’s learning coach, who visits the school on a regular
basis to provide ongoing training and support for teachers. He
coaches teachers during grade level professional development
time as well as doing some “shoulder to shoulder” coaching,
which is a one-on-one strategy where the learning coach joins
the teacher in a classroom environment, offering suggestions
or helping to guide instructional practice.
A recent communication from CBD highlighted 2nd
grade teacher at Moon, Christina Marvin in the “Teacher
Spotlight” section where she was asked about the changes
in instructional practice and communication this year. She
emphasized how the newfound tools have led to students
becoming more independent and how it has helped increase
parent communication. Furthermore, she stressed how using
technology to assess student learning has saved time by
grading tests instantly, which makes instructional decisions
for each student more efficient.
Christina is one of many teachers that are going through
instructional changes as they consider how to better meet
the learning needs of students. Some teachers were a little
hesitant with the process at first, but as time moves on,
Moon Elementary teachers and leadership will be shining
in their newfound skills, thinking, and practices as it relates
to classroom instruction. They have already transformed
many strategies used when working with students. Not even
halfway through the project, and great things are already
happening at Moon thanks to the hard work of teachers and
administration!
Submitted by: Jerry Johnson, Data and Technology Coach
for Muskegon Public Schools
This year, Head Start decided to try something different by
conducting group conferences to replace traditional parentteacher conferences, which ended up being a great success
thanks to parent participation! Parents were able to learn
about the curriculum and assessments used in their child’s
classroom by seeing how their children are being assessed,
and viewing a slide show on Creative Curriculum, and
Teaching Strategies GOLD, Developmental Assessment. This
allowed parents to compare information on their children to
real classroom data, and set school readiness goals with the
best interest of their children in mind.
Goal setting, child development, and parenting topics were
discussed in an open, community-building atmosphere,
which gave the parents an opportunity to network with each
other. Information on social and emotional development,
literacy development, and mathematics development was
also shared, along with a mathematics activity demonstration,
given by the teachers. This activity was focused on how
parents can help their children build mathematics skills at
home. The parents were
given all the needed
supplies for the activity,
so they can practice
with their children. Both
parents and teachers
found
the
group
conference experience
beneficial in creating
positive
connections
between home and
school learning.
The Head Start children and
families at Glenside were
very fortunate to receive an
amazing amount of warm
winter
clothing.
Thank
you so much to Wendy’s
restaurant for this much
needed donation of winter
coats, hats, and mittens!
The coats were collected
from Wendy’s annual “Give a Coat, Get a Combo” program.
The amazing generosity of our community has given the
children and families in our program the needed winter gear
to keep them warm this winter. Thank you Wendy’s!
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.muskegonpublicschools.org• MUSKEGON MIRROR• JANUARY 2016 • 15
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349 W. Webster Avenue, Muskegon, MI 49440
231.720.2000 phone • 231.720.2050 fax
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Jon Felske, Superintendent
Muskegon Board of Education
*** ECRWSS***
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Cindy Larson • Vice President
G. Lynnette Marks • Secretary
Billie J. Bruce • Treasurer
Earl W. O’Brien • Trustee
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Zachary Allen Anderson • Trustee
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Muskegon’s Two-Way Immersion Program
the opportunity to begin learning a second language in
kindergarten, and because they are doing so beside native
Spanish speakers, they are able to develop an accent and
conversational fluency that students who learn Spanish
in a traditional foreign language class may never attain.
Other benefits of TWI include an awareness of culture and
social equality, more access to literature, and higher brain
development related to language, memory, and attention.
Students, who complete the entire TWI program, leave sixth
grade with fairly equal social and academic skills in both
languages. Students who struggle in particular areas receive
the same intervention opportunities as their non-TWI peers.
The Two-Way Immersion (TWI) program is a free, public
education choice for students
attending Muskegon Public
Schools that provides general
education delivered in both
Spanish and English. It began
with a kindergarten and a
first grade class in 2008. Each
year, a grade was added until
TWI covered kindergarten
- 6th grade. The program
currently has 246 students that may elect to continue studying Research shows that students coming out of dual language
programs - compared to those from monolingual programs
Spanish in middle and high school at advanced levels.
- have a lower dropout rate, and have greater potential for
There are many benefits to participating in TWI. All subjects complete bilingualism at the same academic level in both
are taught in two languages. In kindergarten and first grade, languages. There is also research to show that native English
students are immersed in Spanish with the exception of speakers, including minorities, in TWI programs score higher
their “specials”. By second grade, instruction is in alternating on state assessments than do their peers.
languages for different content areas. This is advantageous to
native Spanish speakers because it builds a bridge to transfer
skills to English. By the end of second grade, English Learners
(ELs) in TWI perform similarly to ELs in English-only classrooms
on the mandated language proficiency assessment. It is
advantageous to native English speakers because they have
Hablas
nol?
Espa~
GO MUSKEGON
BIG REDS!
16 • JANUARY 2016 • MUSKEGON MIRROR • www.muskegonpublicschools.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •