President - Northwest Community Schools

Transcription

President - Northwest Community Schools
A Publication Of Your
Northwest Community Schools
MOUNTIES
NEWSLETTER
WINTER2014
“It is our mission to provide a
positive culture that inspires
students to achieve greatness.”
NORTHWEST
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Be A Part Of
ECRWSS
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Northwest Community Schools
6900 Rives Junction Road
Jackson, MI 49201
www.nwschools.org
2014-15 Board of Education
Kevin Kingsley
President
Kimberly Jayne
Vice President
Shawn White
Secretary
Robert Sayles
Treasurer
William Balluff
Phillip LaMaire
Brad Wait
Trustees
Table of Contents
Northwest Board Member Retires���3
Balanced Calendar Discussion���������4
Connected Community Schools����10
Middle School Student of the Month�14
Smart Phone App��������������������������16
Amazing Race Classes��������������������16
Community Health Center�����������18
Food Service News������������������������22
Construction Updates�������������������23
Designed, Printed & Mailed by:
The Ray Group
(517) 787-4130
www.RayPrinting.com
Cover, Pages 12-13, and
Back Page Design by
Allie Lefere
This newsletter is a publication of Northwest Community
Schools. Please contact the administration offices if you would
like to receive the next issue.
2 | Winter 2014
Greetings Mountie Nation!
I hope you are enjoying the 2014-2015 school year! I would like to share a
few exciting updates about Northwest Community Schools and the Direction of
Greatness:
• Construction, Construction, Construction: In the pages to follow we have
given you some updates on our progress on our new elementary school and on
the high school additions. Drive by to check out the new developments. You
can also see the progress on Northwest Community Schools Facebook page or
our www.nwschools.org website.
• Standards Based Grading at the Elementary Schools: We have unified
our report cards K-5 and implemented a process where teachers will report to
parents their student’s accomplishments on individual learning standards. These report cards can be found
for each grade on the district website under the Curriculum tab in the Standards Based Grading folder.
• New Hires: Forty-one new educators have been hired in two years. We have been fortunate to hire
some amazing educators here at Northwest Community Schools. Our expectation to hire the best of
the best was met by all our leadership teams. These educators come to us, in many cases, with years of
experience to help us to continue to grow in the direction of greatness.
• Nurtured Heart Approach: We are training our new staff on our foundational philosophy of the core
belief of the Nurtured Hear Approach. We have clear cut rules, and clear cut consequences but emphasize
the positive in each and every situation. We work to de-energize the negative when at all possible.
• Teacher Evaluation Process: This is our second year implementing the Five Dimensions of Teaching
and Learning Teacher Evaluation process. The State of Michigan requires that we use one of four
researched based teacher evaluation tools. Our teachers and principals are working diligently to improve
their practice by utilizing this model.
• New Board Member for 2015: We would like to welcome a new board member, Craig Staudinger to
the Board of Education.
• High School College and Career Reading for Success Programs: Do you know about the programs
that Northwest offers to prepare students for post high school? Here are the highlights:
•
A College Fair – the largest in Jackson County
• Four different Career Fairs- each with a specific professional focus
•
College Tours- 10 different campuses toured
•
College Application Week
•
Externship Program - A student on-the-job training program
•
Job Shadowing
•
Senior Form - A resume building, portfolio creating, interview practice course
•
AmeriCorps- A partnership with Jackson College
•
Freshman Readiness - Career Exploration and Career Pathway development course
As you can see these are just some of the reasons why I am so excited to be leading our top-notch
educators at Northwest Schools who are working diligently to provide the best possible educational
opportunities for our children.
Thank you for all your support!
We are….Northwest!
Go MOUNTIES!
Superintendent
NW Gold Club
Anyone over 65 will get in FREE to NW Athletic events.
Anyone who had a Gold Club Card prior to 2012-2013 school
year is grandfathered in for the reduced admission.
We are making these changes to be consistent with league procedures and policies.
For more information, please contact Sabrina Jenkins at 817-4754.
GOLD
CLUB
Northwest Community Schools
Respected Northwest Board Member Retires
After 16 ½ years of Service
An Exit Interview with Kim Jayne
by Cari Bushinski
In January 2015, Northwest
Board of Education will say
goodbye to long time board
member, Mrs. Kim Jayne
as she chose not to run for
reelection this term. Kim
has served on the board
since 1998 in each of the
following capacities: Treasurer,
Secretary, Vice President and
President.
I had the privilege of sitting
down to interview Kim in my office at the old Flora
List Elementary, now called the Northwest Education
Center. It was a very fitting choice of venue since
Kim has gone through all the operational changes
over the years at Northwest that have included the
actual closing of Flora List and then the reverse
process of a complete renovation and reopening
of that building this past year. This process of
downscaling then again expanding and reemerging
is indicative of the actual history of Northwest
Community Schools as described by Kim during her
time on the board.
Kim graduated from Northwest in 1983. Kim’s
husband Greg is also a 1981 graduate of Northwest.
She has two daughters, Ashley Jayne 2012 NW
graduate, now attending MSU and Shelby Jayne
who will graduate from Northwest this year. Kim has
worked for 23 years as an Occupational Therapist for
the Jackson County Intermediate School District.
What are your highlights of serving as a board
member for the past 16 ½ years?
Working with the community, administration, staff
and Board passing the bond in 2013 has been a
huge highlight for me. After several failed attempts
it has been exciting to see the community support
our schools. Hiring Geoff (Bontrager) has also been
a highlight. He has created a positive culture and
has a personality that engages the community.
The board and staff responds well to Geoff and his
leadership style and when you have these two pieces
in place you can make a lot of positive changes in a
district.
What are some of the challenges you have faced
as a board member?
Going through the process of making cuts and laying
off teachers/staff was the hardest. Closing a building
and moving students made for a very hard time. It
is difficult as a board member and a community
member to have to make tough decisions for the
district but I think we tried to support our families
and staff as much as possible through the process.
We always ensured that learning was our number
one priority.
Why did you run for the NW Board of Education?
In the 80’s Northwest was considered the place to
be. We had the best educational programs and we
were the second largest district in Jackson County.
As time went on and the economy turned, our
buildings began to age and the community was
not supporting a millage to maintain the facilities.
I wanted to bring those days back and being a
board member was a way that I could try to make a
difference and bring about cohesiveness to support
this change.
When I started, Ashley was in preschool at Flora
List and Shelby was one year old. I wanted to be
involved in their education and support the schools.
What are some of the changes in dynamics that
you have seen in the Board and the district over
the years?
Several years ago most of the board members
had advanced degrees. Consumers Energy and
Foote Hospital encouraged their executives to be
on local boards. Today, people running for school
boards are more likely to have a vested interest
in their children’s education, and are not using
it as a stepping stone for their careers. This is a
paradigm shift and much more representative of
the community as a whole. Having said that, I have
been blessed to be part of a continuum of excellent,
dedicated hard working community members who
have made up the Northwest Board of Education.
Every board member I have served with over the
last 16 years has experienced the gut wrenching
decisions to layoff an employee, negotiate a
contract, cut a budget, and most difficult of all, expel
a child for dangerous behavior. To a person, they
have been caring, loving supportive individuals who
always put the needs and safety of our students first.
What are some of the accomplishments that you
are proud of as a board member?
• We hired five Superintendents since I have been
on the board. Each one brought about changes and
contributed something to the district that helped us
get to where we are today. Most recently, the hiring
of Geoff Bontrager was an excellent move for the
district. Geoff is task oriented, credible, believes in a
positive culture and has the strength to make tough
decisions. These are all excellent attributes of a
good leader.
• Years ago, we were the first district to adopt a
Crisis Intervention Plan in Jackson County after the
Columbine Shooting incident, making us a leader
in taking the first step in securing the safety of our
students.
• Maintaining a balanced budget in a very poor and
difficult economic climate. While many districts were
going under financially, we made many difficult, yet
prudent decisions to manage our budget putting
the integrity of our educational programs at the
forefront.
• The Opening of the Health Care Center at the
Middle School was a wonderful collaborative effort
with the Center for Family Health. This allows our
students and local families to access care they might
not otherwise receive.
What advice would you give to those considering
running for the BOE or a new board member?
It is important to be objective, to have integrity, to
be honest, transparent, involved in the community,
approachable and to be available. You can’t have a
single agenda, you have to be open to participate
and come to the meetings. You have to get
involved at every level and understand how a district
operates. Getting to know the staff and students
is important. The scope of the job is huge. It takes
about 3 years to fully understand this position.
The worst thing you can do as a board member is
micromanage. It is important to be a team player
and collaborate.
How do you feel about leaving the Northwest
Community School Board of Education?
It is bittersweet. It is a part of who you are- a part
of how people see you. I think we as a district are
at a good place now. People want to be involved
and work with Geoff. I will always be an advocate for
Northwest Community Schools and the community
as a whole. There comes a time when you know it
is time to move on. I think it is important for those
with students in the district that have a newly vested
interest, to take over. Your view is different when
you are raising a young family.
What will you do now in this stage of your life?
Next year we will have both of our girls in college.
Greg and I love to golf and travel. I would like to
get involved at the state level with MASB supporting
districts and school boards. This is something that I
may consider.
Northwest Community is so fortunate to have such
a dedicated, intelligent and caring individual support
their school. Thank you Kim! You will be missed!
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETINGS
2014-2015
August 11
September 8
October 13
November 10
December 8
January 12
February 9
March 9
April 13
May 11
June 8
Meetings take place at NEC – Admin. Office Board Room
All meetings are scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. unless otherwise posted. Minutes of all regular and special
meetings are kept on file at the administration office located at 6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, Michigan.
Winter 2014 | 3
www.nwschools.org
Balanced Calendar Discussion in Jackson County
The Jackson County’s Connected Community Schools (led by
the Jackson County Superintendent’s Association) is entering a
countywide discussion around a new school-year schedule, also
known as a “balanced calendar.” No position has been taken, but
in the coming months, we look forward to working with parents,
teachers, students, and community members to further explore
this alternative school-year concept. Below are answers to several
common questions you may have, and we encourage you to visit
jcisd.org/Page/2208 for updated information throughout this
process.
“Has A Decision Been Made?”
Absolutely NOT. We are exploring this idea through community
conversations alongside a full investigation around the
possibility. The task before us is to investigate the full impact, with
input of our community, to ensure that any future decision is well
informed. “What is a ‘Balanced Calendar’ in Jackson County?”
A balanced calendar can take many forms, but generally, it is
one that more evenly distributes the days students are currently
attending school (approximately 180) across the 12 months of the
year. (It is NOT “year-round school,” which implies more school days
added to the calendar.) “Why Explore a Balanced Calendar?”
School districts in Jackson County are fully committed to providing
the greatest opportunity for the success of all students. The
primary rationale behind this exploration and discussion is to better
understand the opportunities for higher student achievement. Other
possible benefits include the elimination of “summer slide”
(content knowledge and skills lost over the long summer break),
an increase in operational efficiency, reduction in stress and
burnout, and greater remedial and enrichment support. The
county’s superintendents would not begin this investigation without
the belief that the potential benefits had the ability to outweigh
the challenges. However, we look forward to conducting thorough
research on district case studies and available data on the impact
this model may have on education and student achievement.
“What Will the Investigation Look Like?”
Jackson’s Connected Community Schools will spend several months
examining the effects and possible effects of this calendar model;
and will explore the impact on the entire educational system,
including: athletics and club events/seasons, childcare needs and
constraints, summer jobs and the impact on local businesses,
infrastructure/utility costs, human resource and staffing, potential
challenges to transfer (out-county) students, and more.
“Who Will be Involved in These Discussions?”
During this process, the input of all stakeholders will be heard
and understood. Surveys, meetings, and public discussions will
all be held during this time to ensure all voices are heard and that
perspectives are shared.
4 | Winter 2014
“What are the Next Steps in this Conversation?”
Looking ahead, each district will be working together and seeking
community input in a variety of ways:
• Panel Discussions will be held in each local district in February
2015 (the specific date will be shared on the district website by
January 2015), providing a chance for the general public to discuss
and share their thoughts.
• A formal phone survey will be conducted during March 2015,
while an open survey will be available mid-winter 2015 (with a link
posted to our district website). We encourage all parents, staff, and
community members to complete this survey.
• In the spring of 2015, all information gathered will be analyzed.
At that point, feedback could generate new conversations, or the
data could bring light to the fact that now may not be the best time
to make this change.
Ultimately, the JCSA looks forward to working together as a county,
sharing and understanding the many considerations and perceptions
that can affect a decision of this magnitude – leading to an
informed, well-researched decision on next steps.
We hope that you will participate and engage in the possibilities
around this exciting process. Please check our Northwest homepage
for panel discussion scheduling and links to the latest information.
Jackson County and Northwest Community Schools
Home of Your Connected Community Schools!
What is a “Connected Community School”?
A “Connected Community School” is any one of Jackson’s 13 public districts,
working together to connect its students to advanced learning, careers,
college prep, and success! Our districts partner together with community
organizations, business organizations, and local learning services to create
and connect students to the opportunities that are most important to its
community. Connected Community Schools each work with organizations and
networks such as Cradle 2 Career, the College and Career Access Center,
the Career Center, and Energizing Ed as well as with each other, to provide
shared academic opportunities and student support.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Northwest Community Schools, along with Jackson County’s 13 public
districts, are proud to be your Connected Community Schools! What does
this mean for Northwest students? Increased services, cutting-edge, career
and technical education, college credits, career certifications, and expanded
learning options! As a Connected Community School, we recognize that we must evolve in
order to prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow, which is why we work
together, as well as with community and business organizations, to create
and connect students to the opportunities that are important to the future and
success of the entire county. We believe that working together is the only
effective way of shaping our collective resources—while building stronger
community relationships—with the goal in mind to connect our students to their
next big steps beyond the classroom.
It is because of these partnerships and the commitment of all Connected
Community Schools that we’re able to join in the work of the Cradle 2 Career
Network, and offer the services of the College and Career Access Center,
the NEW JAC3 Early Middle College, the Career Center, “unbundled”
programming and dual-enrollment, and more! Looking ahead, we’ll all be
working together to lead the discussion around the ideas and possibilities
within a balanced calendar system.
Our Connected Community Schools will continue to work together,
strengthening and supporting the work of our students and their families. Keep
an eye out for future updates and work of this exciting, collaborative, and
countywide effort!
Northwest Community Schools
Northwest Child Care News
IMPORTANT
DATES
at Northwest Preschool
and Childcare Center
Greetings Mountie Nation,
Our Little Mounties have been busy this fall making
December 22 January 2
NO SCHOOL
CHRISTMAS BREAK
January 5th/6th
1st day of school in 2015!!
January 19th
NO SCHOOL
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
February 5th
friends, learning the classroom rules and routines and
working hard on kindergarten readiness skills. The preschoolers had fun visiting with the Blackman Public Safety
as the Big Red Fire truck was brought to our center
for the preschoolers to explore. A big thank you to Blackman
Public Safety Officer Ganzel for taking the time to talk to the
preschoolers about fire safety. All of the kids had a great
time!
Our Northwest Preschool families worked hard this past
fall selling Little Caesars Pizza Kits. Thanks to all their hard
work, Northwest Preschool sold 350 pizza kits for a profit of $1750.00!!! All of the money raised from the pizza
kit fundraiser is going towards educational materials for all of
Preschool Family Night (tentative)
the Little Mounties to enjoy! As fall comes to an end, we look
February 11th/12th
We are Northwest... Go Mounties!
Classroom Valentine Celebrations
(see classroom newsletters)
February 16th
NO SCHOOL - President’s Day
March 27th-April 3
forward to a busy and exciting winter season!
Amy Marrison
Director of Northwest Preschool and Childcare Center
517-817-4746
[email protected]
NO SCHOOL - Spring Break
Winter 2014 | 5
www.nwschools.org
Northwest Elementary News
Dear NWEL Family,
Thank you so much for all of your help
and support! We are so fortunate to
have families and a community that are
intently interested in the success of our
staff and students. The fall is here and
we have plenty of things to celebrate.
The construction across the parking lot is
coming along beautifully. Parking and parent pick-up is a
challenge but everyone is doing a fabulous job exercising
patience and caution when picking up students.
We just finished with Halloween celebrations and
everyone had a wonderful time. There were lots of
friendly faces and plenty of smiles as we enjoyed dressing
up and eating snacks, and enjoying the afternoon.
Students are working incredibly hard in their studies as
we maintain our focus on academic excellence. Teachers
are creating continuous opportunities for students to
grow. We have whole class and intervention times for
every grade level in the areas of English Language Arts
and Math. Students are responding to instruction and all
students are making gains toward their academic goals.
The PTO is working diligently to raise funds for our new
playground equipment. The total cost of purchasing and
installing the new equipment is $38k dollars.
We look forward to student conferences coming in just a
few weeks. We were happy to meet with parents who were
interested in learning more about the new Standards Based
Grading, adopted at NWEL. We had a great turn out and felt
a sense of community and connectedness with parents as we
provided more clarity on Standards Based Grading.
The holidays are quickly approaching and we are excited
with all of the fabulous programs we offer here at NWEL.
Please stop in and visit us to see first-hand how we love
students, support one another, teach cohesively, and invite the
community to partner with us to achieve greatness!
Go Mounties!
Eric G. Kelly, Ed.S.
Principal, Northwest Elementary School
District wide volunteer day was a tremendous success and
incredibly gratifying for both students and staff.
StartWithInvesting(in)NorthwestGoalS
Northwest Elementary is partnering with the Parent Teacher
Organization this coming year to accomplish the goal of
providing more playground equipment for our students.
The PTO has done one fundraiser already this year and
plan to create more opportunities to raise money for this
ambitious project. The PTO also plans to canvas local
businesses in Jackson to partner with us to purchase new
playground equipment. We hope to involve the whole
community in building our “community.” Crossroads Gas
Station and Convenient Store, is planning to help our cause
with donations in the month of January. Each time you fill
up at Crossroads a penny per gallon will be given to NWEL
toward our Playground fund.
lonely, rather than acting out negatively on the playground,
they can sit at one of the benches. That signals a peer
that has been trained to ask a series of helpful questions
to de-escalate any situation that could result in negative
behaviors. Students will now have the chance to work on
friendships, athletics, and other skills at recess with the
new equipment we hope to purchase. Our goal is to raise
$39,000.00 to purchase the new playground equipment.
The cost includes installation, a base and a border.
In addition to purchasing new equipment, we will also have
two benches installed to help with our Peer to Peer Program
we are starting this year. When students feel sad, mad or
Please support us in our efforts to build a better playground
for all!
6 | Winter 2014
We are a rapidly growing district and we are so excited to
add to the Mountie nation a place where students, teachers
and community can play and exercise.
Northwest Community Schools
Northwest Elementary News
5th Graders Visit Greenfield Village
The 5th grade class took their annual
trip to Greenfield Village in October. It was an amazing day of learning
as the students went through many
homes, shops, and businesses throughout
the village. They were able to listen,
ask questions, and also see various
demonstrations throughout the day. They came back to the classroom with
lots of history to share. We would like
to thank our parents who were able to
attend and share this day with us!
District Community Service Day
On Tuesday, October 21, Northwest Elementary joined the entire district in participating in our PROJECT Y.E.S.
community service day. Students at Northwest Elementary paired up with students at Parnall to decorate Christmas
bags for WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE AGENCY. These bags will then be filled with toiletry items that we collected
for those people shopping at the Priceless Toy Store. We are certainly proud of our students for showing their eagerness
to care about others.
Students at Northwest Elementary also voted on their first recipient for the pop cans that we collect for PROJECT
Y.E.S. The winner was the ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Foundation. 45% of our students (266 out of 585 voted for this). We will
be sending a check to them soon.
Winter 2014 | 7
www.nwschools.org
Northwest Elementary News
Serving Seniors
The students in Mrs. Kennedy’s and Mr. Bartlett’s classrooms went to the Jackson Friendly Home and the
John George Home on Friday, September 19. The students helped make bird feeders and bird houses with the residents
and visited with them. Students also worked on projects around the non-profits, such as painting and gardening.
Parnall Elementary News
The holidays always bring excitement for our
elementary students. Our students are always
actively involved in a variety of community
service activities. Our students participate in the
“Priceless Toy Store” by bringing in their gently
used toys for other children. We have an Angel
Tree that helps our local families with donated
items of food and clothing. During this season,
our Title I program sponsors “Happy Holiday
Reading” with families enjoying free books, visits
with Santa, and other activities. Our PTO does
a marvelous job of organizing “Secret Santa’s
Workshop” for our young students to purchase family presents for
Christmas.
Nathan Latoszewski, Gracyn Marken
and Madison Soule pause for a smile.
Kyle Richardson and Aiden Baker
pause for a smile.
Regan Knight and Maria Perez enjoyed
decorating!
Mrs. Keathley assists Tyler Derby.
During this busy time, please remember to take time to
snuggle in with your children and share a good book. Some of my
personal favorites are The Polar Express, The Elf on the Shelf, Who
Will Guide My Sleigh Tonight, and Snowmen at Night. This is also
a great time to play games and put together puzzles. There is just
something special about Christmas for our little ones.
What I truly enjoy about this time of year is just how giving our
little ones are to others in need. This is a great time to teach our
children about giving. I am so proud of our students with all of the
work that they do to make sure that others have a great Christmas
holiday. I wish you and your family a wonderful break and holiday
season!
Lorri McAlpine
Principal
Parnall Elementary School
8 | Winter 2014
Students in Mrs. Keathley’s 2nd grade class partnered with
American 1 Credit Union and Make it Yours Pottery to paint the
soup bowls for this year’s Soup Wars. This event is taking place
in January (TBD) and it raises money for the Jackson Interfaith
Shelter. The first 50 people in the door will receive a soup bowl
painted by a student in Jackson county! Some of those bowls were
painted by our very own Mounties! Prior to this event you can see
some of our student’s creativity on display inside of local and area
American 1 Credit Union buildings.
Northwest Community Schools
Parnall Elementary News
Energizing Education at Parnall Elementary
is going strong. We have close to 30 mentors
that come in twice weekly to meet with our
Kindergarten, First and Second graders. Our
lounge is bustling and busy with reading. Besides
reading with and to our students, our mentors are
forming relationships that go beyond academics. Thank you to all of our
dedicated mentors that take time each week to make a difference.
Besides our mentoring program, Energizing Education sponsors Family
Fun Nights each month for the entire Parnall building. In September
our theme was “Hit the Ground Reading” and we had well over 200
attending. In October our theme was “Get a Clue” and again well over
200 attended. Energizing Education provides dinner, a book for each
student, and activities for everyone. Each family is put in a drawing for
a gift card just for attending. Without Energizing Education partnering
with Parnall, none of this would be possible.
This school year our own Northwest High School Yearbook Staff is
partnering with Blackman Township and offering FREE fingerprinting,
photos and ID kits at Energizing Education Family Nights. We are so
very fortunate to have the ability to offer this to our school families. Hope
you can join us for a future Energizing Education Family Night!
Winter 2014 | 9
www.nwschools.org
Middle School News
Note from the Principal:
We have had a terrific start to our school year.
Our students and staff have been working
together to make sure that we have a successful
year. We have been focusing on our greatness
and celebrating the outstanding things that
our students are doing each day. We have
pictures and awards displayed throughout our
building recognizing our student’s
accomplishments. We are very
proud of how hard the kids are
working to help our school and
each other.
Daniel Brooks
Principal
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Teachers and staff see greatness in their students every day. This
bulletin board allows them to give recognition to students who go
above and beyond when it comes to being kind, helpful, or making a
good choice. Staff can write the student’s name and what they did on
a die-cut light bulb. The student is then recognized during the morning
announcements and the light bulb is put up on our “Let Your Greatness
Shine” bulletin board. It’s awesome to watch the board fill up as the
year progresses. Students have been recognized for helping students
who drop their stuff in the middle of the hall, turning money they found
on the ground in to the office, opening doors for staff members who
have their hands full, making a new student feel welcome at KMS, and
many other kind deeds.
Student of the
Month
Each month, staff has the opportunity to nominate students for Student of the Month. All nominees have a star placed on their locker with their name
and the teacher who nominated them. The winners – two per grade level – have their picture taken and posted in one of the showcases in the front hall.
Students are nominated for many reasons: improved/good grades, great attitude/behavior, helpful, being a leader, etc.
The nominees for September were:
6th grade - Mallory Anspaugh, Quintien Dragan, Kaleb Gattshall, Noah Miller, and Donavon Tenney
7th grade - Chloe Blue, Jeremiah Bromley, Tim Brock, Justin Jarosz, Deacon McDonald, Zachary McLaren, Olivia Olmsted, Damian Rogers, and
Alyssa Tucker
8th grade - Gabe Anderson, Jarod Armbruster, Krystal Gilbert, Madelyn Huff, Brett Krul, Sharon Kurts, Wayne Maynard, Elijah Pierce, Kylie
Rydjord, Allie Swartz, Clayton Waterbury, and Skylynn-Rose Wyer
The winners were Mallory Anspaugh and Kaleb Gattshall for 6th grade, Tim Brock and Olivia Olmsted for 7th grade, and Clayton Waterbury and
Skylynn-Rose Wyer for 8th grade.
Congratulations to all of the students who were nominated.
6th grade
10 | Winter 2014
7th grade
8th grade
Northwest Community Schools
Middle School News
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK... We have started a new tradition here at Kidder Middle School. We have been honoring our Athletes with an Athlete of the Week
Award. The criteria for being nominated by a coach is; to be a terrific player and teammate during practices, have a successful week
on the court or field and to maintain excellent grades. Each coach nominates one player for his or her respected team each week. Each week we have been reading the nominees and calling everyone down to receive their nomination certificate. We also have been
honoring the Athletes of the Week with a special Athlete of the Week T-Shirt. GREAT JOB to our FALL ATHLETES!!!
Athletes of the Week – FALL 2014
Macy Jacobs
Anthony Cole
Bryce Alfred
Lucas Arbrouet
Bailey Cooper
ou
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2014 Northwest Middle Cross Country
The 2014 Northwest Middle School cross country team finished
their 10 - meet season with a tremendous improvement from the
lead runners to end runners, some of these runners improved
by 5 minutes in their 1600 meter time. Leading the way most of
the season was the veteran middle school runner Bryce Alfred.
Bryce started in 6th grade with the team and has had constant
improvement. He is looking forward to running with the Varsity
Cross Country team next fall. Lucus Arbrouet, a 6th grader this
year, shows tremendous talent for next fall and pushed Bryce most
of the season. Luke Hedrich, another 8th grader, running his first
season improved tremendously and with continued running he
will be in contention for a Varsity spot next year. Cameron Senft
rounded out the 8th grade boys and had some very good races.
The only 7th grade boy was Kode Whitworth. Kode got better
and better all season. Jacob Lindsay was the other 6th grade boy
that ran. Jacob, Kode, and Lucus will need some help from their
classmates by running cross country in the fall.
The girl’s team was lead by Aria Ward and Lydia Anuszkiewicz all
season long. This girl’s team finished most of the races in the top
third with a tight pack of girl’s. Brianna Dodge, Meghan Camburn,
Kelsey Murton, Casey Kennedy, and Lilly Rockwell were within
1 minute of each other in every race. The girl’s were 4th in the
competitive I-8 League. All the girl’s improved on their times,
but Meg Daly jumped by leaps and bounds. The 7th graders of
Aria and Brianna hope to get some help for next year and the 8th
graders are looking at running at the next level. The 6th grade
girls took most of the season to get into competitive shape, but
found out that they can control their speed with mental toughness.
The 6th grade girls were lead by Shayla Adler, Jaslynn Kennedy,
Hannah Stokely, and Arianna Koker. They were followed by Erin
Camburn, Marrissa Ralph, Jensen Mortimer, and Maggie Collier.
Winter 2014 | 11
www.nwschools.org
12 | Winter 2014
Northwest Community Schools
Winter 2014 | 13
www.nwschools.org
Middle School News
L.O.L.
(
Leading Out Loud)
Wow! October has been a busy month. L.O.L. organized dress up days for Homecoming including neon day, comfy/cozy day, sports team
day, twin day and of course red and black Mountie Friday. L.O.L. had a very successful Little Caesars Pizza sale. Several students stayed
after school to sort and organize orders. We would like to thank Wendy Dreyer for helping us on conference night. The money earned goes
right back into the school for our fabulous students. We also have a supply store open before school on Wednesdays for those last minute
needs including pencils, lead, erasers and folders. Friday, October 24th we had our first dance of the year. It was fantastic! Friends, food
and fun! What could be better? How about collecting hygiene supplies for families in need? Thank you to all of the parents and teachers
that joined us. We couldn’t have these dances without YOU. The next dance is December 12th and the last one will be February 13th.
Chaperones are always needed and welcome. If you would like to join us please contact Mrs. Balluff at (517)817-4760 or
[email protected].
News from Your School Counselors
“Hey, Mr. Parrott guess what….. tomorrow is advisory class,” students
said excitedly at a 7th/8th grade volleyball game. “I wish we had
advisory class every day.” The students at Kidder Middle are thrilled to
attend advisory class every Wednesday morning before first hour. It is
during these 25 minutes they connect with a familiar teacher and build
relations through interactive lessons and activities. Emphasis on positive
school culture and anti-bullying are important components of advisory
class. Students look forward to a new message each week from their
peers, teachers, counselors, or principals through creative presentations.
They anticipate videos demonstrating positive behaviors and ways to
live up to the expectations of Mountie Nation. Currently, students have
been introduced to a character by the name of Dr. Zando who has found
his way to Mountie Nation seeking greatness. Although a mystery for
a period of time students will soon discover Dr. Zando’s purpose of
celebrating kind behavior and good decision making. The idea behind
this character is to get kids excited about doing the right thing. One of
the main focuses of advisory class is to put a stop to mean behavior and
bullying. We have clearly defined, compared, and contrasted bullying
and mean behavior and have had powerful discussions about being
friends or classmates rather than enemies.
Bystander training camp is another intervention the counselors are
14 | Winter 2014
putting middle school students through to help put a stop to mean
behavior and bullying. An essential resource has been “Aggression
Prevention in the Schools (Part Two: The Next Steps)” developed by
Marcia McEvoy, a licensed psychologist. It is through this training that
students will learn how to be a good bystander by role playing various
scenarios and utilizing skills taught by Mr. Blume and Mrs. Holbrook.
During this training students will decipher between ratting and reporting
and learn why and how to effectively take control and start reporting
aggressive behavior.
In November the counselors, Mr. Blume and Mrs. Holbrook, will start
a grief group to support students who have experienced a recent death/
loss in their life. The group will run for 8 to 10 weeks and provide a
safe, non-judgmental environment where students can share their stories
and meet others who have experienced similar loss. Students will have
the opportunity to develop coping skills to help them through the most
difficult days of their grief journey. It will also be an opportunity to
discover new traditions and ideas to keep loved ones present in their
hearts and memories. Groups will meet during school hours. Please
contact Mrs. Jessica Holbrook at [email protected] or
517-817-4945 if you would like your student to participate.
Northwest Community Schools
Middle School News
7th Grade Science
Students at Kidder Middle School have been learning about cells and the cell
theory. To help them connect the idea that cells are the foundation for entire
organisms, students used Legos. Each student started with a single “cell.” Then
each student found someone with a matching cell to build tissues, organs, organ
systems, and finally an organism. The students have also enjoyed learning
about how cells use nutrients to provide energy. Students will be creating their
very own 3-D Cell to showcase what they have learned.
8th Grade Science
The 8th grade Science students at KMS were given an assignment to create
a solar oven. The purpose was to see how much of the sun’s energy could
be collected. This experiment teaches students about heat transfer through
conduction. They also discussed the Laws of Thermodynamics.
Students created the ovens using various items they found at home. At the
beginning of the school day, students placed their ovens outside to record the
first temperature. Then after each hour, they would check the temperature, and
record it on a data table. Even though the weather didn’t quite cooperate, most
of the students found that their ovens worked as planned.
High School News
Northwest High School is having an exciting year!! We are
watching our building grow on a daily basis and look forward to
utilizing our new space in the fall of 2015. This opportunity to have
new spaces will benefit our students, staff and community.
Parents, do you want to keep up on High School
Events? Sign up for a quick way to receive Mr. Buchler’s
current events via text or email with “Remind 101”.
We also have great things going on in the classrooms. Our students
and staff have made a commitment to improve our students’ interest
in reading which should help our students perform better in the
classroom. Every Wednesday morning, for 25 minutes, our staff and
students commit to reading and reflecting. We have seen some
renewed interest by many of our students for the joy of reading.
There is an increase in students checking out books from our media center and we have
students talking about reading.
Northwest High School has had many students involved with service learning projects.
Several students have done work and gained support for local agencies such as Big
Brothers/Big Sisters, AWARE Shelter, Jackson Humane Society, Special Olympics and
others. We have seen more collaboration with our schools and community. This makes
learning more meaningful.
Each and every day we have great things going on at NWHS. If you are interested in
getting information from the high school in a quick text or email, sign up for Mr. Buchler’s
remind messages (see box to right).
Thank you all for your continued support. If you know someone that is interested in
becoming a part of our great Mountie Nation have them call our office at (517)817-4701.
Scott Buchler,
Principal
Northwest High School
Winter 2014 | 15
www.nwschools.org
High School News
Amazing Kids are Helped By Amazing Classes
Seniors Sydney Vernier, Taylor Owen,
and Kaela Scott present Josh McCarthy
with check for $500.
Students of the Amazing Race classes competed against one another for votes
to raise money to help support two Northwest families. The high school teens
planned, directed, filmed, and marketed their lip dubs, (lip sync videos) for
one week to earn ‘likes’ on YouTube. Each student was responsible for getting
sponsors and donations for the likes their class received. The students were
able to raise $1,000 split equally between Ewan McMichael 3rd grader at
Northwest Elementary and Josh McCarthy 2nd grader at Parnall to cover
medical expenses as they bravely fight cancer. The teens were able to bring
peers, staff, other buildings, and community members into the mix. Check
out the collection of three videos by visiting https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=zM_Zpe0vc9U or the QR scanner attached.
A special thank you goes to the Introduction to Broadcasting and Marnie Hade
for the aide and leadership in filming and editing the productions. Also thank
you to the Mountie Nation and all who voted and donated on the kids behalf.
NWHS Sculpture students raise money for hunger in our community
After studying global, national and local hunger statistics and presenting
the data to each other; sculpture students decided to participate in the
national Empty Bowls movement. They
made ceramic bowls and sold them to
raise money for hunger. Adopting the
name, “Bowls for Souls,” a suggestion
made by Ms. Hade, students sold
some of the bowls last December
at the Northwest vs. Lumen Christi
basketball game and sold the rest of
the bowls at the First Church of the
Nazarene this October. The students chose to sponsor the First Church
of the Nazarene’s food pantry as it would help local people in our own
community. Students raised $392.00 for people with food insecurity. Way
to go Mounties! Your efforts to help others really made a difference.
Art `a Loan
Ella Sharp Museum and Jackson Civic Art Association are teaming up
again this year for the eighth annual Art a Loan, a program designed
to encourage young artists to develop and share their talents with
the Jackson community. This year, teachers from public and private
schools in Jackson County submitted nearly 400 pieces of artwork
from students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. Out of these
400 submissions, 57 were chosen as finalists. Two finalists were from
Northwest Community Schools!
Senior Rey McClurg gives check to
Ewan McMichael and family.
Jackson County Fair Entries
These two Mounties had entries in the Jackson County Fair.
Sean Palmer, Class of 2011, had a 3’ X
4’ pastel of a dragon and took 3rd place.
Well done Rebecca and Sean.
Rebecca Markiewicz, Class of 2013, had a 5’ X 5’
mural of a truck that was beautifully done. She is
currently a sophomore at Western Michigan University.
District Launches
our new SMART
Phone App!
Download our new smart phone App
Northwest Community Schools
*available on iTunes and GooglePlay
Aaliyah Maxson, 9th Grade, “Girl Power”
16 | Winter 2014
Katie Lasky, 12th Grade, “Doors”
This app will give you direct
access to Powerschool, district
announcements, district newsletter,
the athletic page and more.
Northwest Community Schools
Due to an editorial error, the 2014 High School Honor Roll was listed in the Fall 2014 Newsletter as incomplete. Therefore, we are reprinting the 20132014 High School Honor Roll in its entirety below. Please accept our apologies for any inconveniences this may have caused. Congratulations Students!
HONOR ROLL
ons!
ti
Congratula
2013-2014
TRIMESTER 3
ALL “A” HONOR
ROLL 10 Agnihotri, Aradhya
11 Argo, Zachary
9 Arthur, Gabriel
9 Baker, Hailey
9 Barner, Genna
11 Barnes, Taylor
12 Bearinger, Emma
9 Becraft, Abbegale
12 Bergeron, Nicole
10 Berry, Nathaniel
11 Beveridge, Paige
12 Bliss, Jesse
12 Brafford, Morgann
12 Bremiller, Bryan
9 Brown, Madeleine
12 Bunker, Ashley
9 Callebs, Phoebe
11 Cantlin, Emalee
12 Carroll, Tyler
12 Casebeer, Sarah
10 Collins, Samantha
11 Corser, Autumn
12 Coulombe, Mackenzie
9 DeGarmo, Danielle
10 DeMott, Heather
9 Dodge, Tyler
9 Dodge, Austin
12 Dodge, John
10 Ekins, Bethany
10 Ellsworth, Jessica
9 Epstein, Sophia
12 Fink, Kristen
9 Fisher, Adrienne
9Fleming,Brittney
9 Fogarty, Riann
9 Frewen, Logan
9 Friend, Hannah
12 Galloway, Andrew
11 Gannon, Summer
9 Gier, Bailey
11 Gough, Kylie
10 Grindall, Nicholas
9 Hall, Devin
11 Hendershot, Holly
9 Hoaglin, Zachary
11 Howe, Madison
9 Huber, Caitlin
9 Huff, Mallory
10 Huff, Lindsey
12 Hunt, Heather
10 Hunter, Helen
12 Iott, Kory
12 Jehnzen, Carly
9 Jennett, Brianna
9 KaiserRachael
11 Kalis, Hannah
9 Kampf, Robert
12 Kampf, Jacob
11 Kelly, Emily
12 Kelly, Timothy
10 Kelly-Hadley, Zenda
9 Klee, Cecelia
12 Klingaman, Jacob
11 Kops, Mitchell
10 Kurtz, Joseph
10 Laird, Zachary
9 Langford, Summer
10 Lasky, Rachel
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Layher, Michael
Layher, Lucas
Lewis, Brian
Ljaljic, Amela
Locke, Thomas
Lockwood, Sarah
Maxson, Aaliyah
McCartney, John
McIntyre, Brandon
McKee, Daniel
Mitchell, Jessica
Niciporek, Paige
O’Connor, Cameron
Parsons, Taylor
Perrin, Madison
Perrin, Hunter
Phelan, Jacob
Piepkow, Connor
Stanley, Kymber
Potosky, Ashley
Roberts, Taylor
Ryan, Blake
Sanchez, Daniella
Sanford, Benjamin
Saylor, Elizabeth
Saylor, Grant
Shields, Jacob
Simons, Trevor
Sinderman, Madison
Smith, Rebecca
Smith, Tiffany
Sorenson, Jaynie
Spry, Jeremiah
Stephens, Kendall
Stull, Alyssa
Sundermeyer, Ashley
Taylor, Michaela
Vicary, Hannah
Vogt, Taira
Wahl, Dale
Ward, Allegra
Warfield, Kyley
Warfield, Kaley
Watts , Dori
West, Mallory
White, Alaina
White, Olivia
Wilcox, Samantha
Wilcox, Austin
Wilcox, Kortani
Woodruff, Benjamin
Wright, Ryleigh
Zonts, Malorie
2013-2014
TRIMESTER 3
3.00 HONOR ROLL
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Abbey, Cody
Adams, Tyler
Adler, Jaden
Aiello, Alexandra
Allen, Ciara
Anastasiadis, Andrea
Anderson, Alex
Arnold, Collin
Arntz, Katherine
Balfour, Kevyn
Balluff, Jaison
Bartels, Chase
Bartolovich, Nicole
Belding, Lee
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Berry, Morgan
Birchfield, Devin
Birchfield, Tyler
Blair, Katie
Blankenship, Nathaniel
Bliss, Hannah
Blumhardt, Lindzee
Blumhardt, Myranda
Bostedor, Emily
Bostedor, Tyler
Boulter, Faith
Brausch, Mollie
Bremiller, Stephanie
Brenner, Taylor
Brockie, Brittany
Brooks, Chelsea
Brown, Lauren
Brownmiller, Justin
Bruhn, Maxwell
Bubp, Zachary
Buchler, Hadleigh
Bunker, Ashley
Burgess, Mercedes
Burman, Makenna
Cahill, Katlin
Calkins, Toby
Callendar, Michael
Case, Darius
Coleman , Ciara
Collard, Madison
Collier, Richard
Collier, Katelynn
Collins-Blankenship, Tyler
Conroy, Christian
Cook, Amanda
Cooley, Tylar
Corden, Jeneva
Corravo, Sara
Craig, Shayla
Crow, Paula
Curtis, James
Cushard, Heather
Dangler-Hawkins, Emily
Daniels, Chelsea
Daniels, Corey
Danilowsky, Hailee
Darrow, Bryce
Davis, Cory
DeDoes, Cade
Degregorio, Alyssa
DeLattre, Dominick
Dillay, Shawnacee
Dillay, Myranda
Divish, Sierra
Donnelly, Kevin
Dragan, Savannah
Drake, Lyndi
Drake, Elliott
DuBois, Amanda
Duchaine, Jonathan
Dula, Ryan
Dullock, Destiny
Duncan, Breanna
Eff-Jones, Sydney
Elkins, Tristen
Ellsworth, Crystal
Ellsworth, Michelle
Estepp, William
Everett, Logan
Ferguson, Abbey
Fisher, Austin
Flores, Cassandra
Flores, Alejandra
Fodor, Alexandria
9 Fonseca, Enrique
11 Fonseca, Antonio
9 Frederickson, Gregory
10 Gajewski, Jasmine
9 Galloway, Riley
9 Garner, Devyn
10 Gauthier, Tessa
9 Geiger, Kaitlyn
9 Glover, Alexia
10 Golightly, Kayla
10 Gomolka, Hunter
10 Grace, Kolton
11 Graham, Briana
9 Gray, Mason
10 Griswold, John
12 Guild, Patricia
10 Gwinn, Sarah
11 Haas, Margaret
12 Hahn, Kaitlin
12 Hale, Trevor
9 Hall, Trey
12 Hall, Tyler
12 Hamel, Anthony
12 Harbaugh, Cole
12 Harmon, Mackenzie
9 Harwood, Nikolas
9 Hatt, Laya
10 Helton, Chase
9 Henderson, Stephanie
12 Hendges, Mallory
12 Hibbs, Kaitlyn
10 Hicok, Andria
11 Hill, Emily
11 Hitt, Logan
11 Hoage, William
9 Hogan, Kelsey
12 Holleque, Timothy
12 Hooker, Kristin
12 Hoop, Robert
12 Horrighs, Dayton
11 Horsch, Riley
9 Howe, Lauren
9 Hubbell, Matthew
10 Huff, Jordan
11 Inosencio, Miranda
10 Iott, Konnor
12 James, Conner
11 Jayne, Shelby
12 Jenkins, Savannah
11 Jennett, Brooke
10 Johnson, Taylor
11 Johnson, David
12 Johnson, Lewis
11 Johnston, Christy
12 Jones, Amber
11 Jung, Stefan
10 Kampf, James
12 Kampf, Juliana
12 Keeder, Kyle
9Kerns,Bridget
10 Khon, Alexandria
12 Kingsbury, Amanda
9 Klahn, Tristan
12 Klingaman, Zachary
11 Koszegi, Risten
12 Kowalski, Amanda
9 Kurts, William
11 Kusch, Sean
9 Lally, Morgan
9 Lally, Mason
11 LaMaire, Kendra
12 Larson, Brent
9 Lavery, Joseph
12 Lawrie, Emily
10 Ledford, Grant
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Leightner, Cinnamon
Leonard, Christina
LePeak, Taylen
Lewis, Nathaniel
LillieWeems, Alan
Linsday, Jessica
LockeHannah
Lorencen, Ann-Marie
Lorencen, Savannah
Lykins, Domanic
Madery, Kaelyn
Marr, Kayci
Martinez Somolinos, Paula
Martino, Samantha
Marvin, Stephanie
Mason, Diana
Maynard, Lindsay
McClurg, Pavel
McEldowney, Clair
McEwen, Morgan
McEwen, Thor
McGuire, Jorden
McKee, Patrick
Mees, Tj
Miller, Trenton
Miller, Henry
Miller, Mackenzie
Miller, Marisa
Miller, Tessa
Milliman, Madysson
Minix, Rachael
Minshall, Jacob
Moffitt, Jesse
Moody, Shianne
Moore, Jordan
Morales, Hailey
Morris, Amber
Murton, Kyle
Newhouse, Zachary
Nichols, Hayley
Nicka, Sierra
Norris, Kylee
Nugent, Haley
O’Brien, Kaitlyn
O’Hara, Brenden
Olmsted, Leah
Olmsted, Noah
Onda, Tyler
Orban, Tilar
Owens, Taylor
Owens, Daniel
Pahl, Mackenzie
Parrett, Jerod
Patrice, Alex
Payne, Brittany
Petersen, Coby
Peterson, Andrew
Phelan, Austin
Pieh, Noah
Pieh, Holden
Pier, Nicole
Piotrowski, Gabrielle
Pizano, Ben
Pond, Tiffany
Pryor, Tyriah
Radziewicz, Nicholas
Rayas, Luisa
Raymond, Jacob
Reams, James
Rhines, Sydney
Richmond, Austin
Richmond, Alec
Rilett, Kabrina
Rodriguez, Helena
!
Well Done
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Rose, Megan
Roth, Alexander
Rushlow, Alexis
Ryan, Kelsey
Salvadori, Karl
Samons, Peyton
Sanford, Kyle
Savicke, Jeremy
Schuler, Hanna
Schultz, Ciara
Schurle, Heather
Schutte, Taylor
Scott, Kaela
Seamans, Tyler
Shaughnessy, Hannah
Shell, Caitlyn
Shook, Savannah
Shutt, David
Simons, Michael
Singh, Gurjinder
Smith, Caroline
Smith, Rachel
Snyder, Jayden
Sorenson, Jenna
Southworth, Elizabeth
Sparks, Emily
Staelens, Racquel
Stevens, Kara
Stewart, Caleb
Stiltner, Raquel
Streeter, Gabrielle
Strickling, Donald
Swope, Madison
Thiel, Meghan
Thomas, Olivia
Thrush, Makayla
Titus, Benjamin
Toland, Mary
Tompkins, Nicholas
Tyslenko, Sydney
Ulch, Hannah
VanAken, Kala
Vancalbergh, Michael
VanHouten, Cassandra
Vernier, Sydney
Vogt, Michael
Wadke, Rachel
Wadke, Hannah
Wait, Kennedy
Walker, Scott
Warren, Carissa
Watson, Zachariah
Watson, Samantha
Weisbrod, Kelyn
Weller, Nicolas
Wertzbar, Karley
White, Aimee
Whitney, Breanna
Whitney, Noah
Wilkinson, Bailey
Willson, Victoria
Wilson, Lauren
Wohlart, Zackary
Wozniak, Karolina
Wright, Taylor
Wurmlinger, Brendan
Yearling, Sabrina
Zehner, Matthew
Zielinski, Kevin
Ziglerm, Cloe
Zimmerman, Kaley
Zonker, Gregory
Winter 2014 | 17
www.nwschools.org
NORTHWEST
COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER
Cutting For a Cause
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday - Friday
Northwest students are looking for community
members and other Mounties to help with reaching
the 300 inch goal. Last year Northwest High School
staff and students donated 176 inches of hair to
be made into wigs for kids and adults suffering
from hair loss. This year the first cut took place at
the Homecoming Assembly games where three
students (Courtney Morales, Paige Beveridge and
Macy Johnson) along with Spanish teacher Sierra
Kane chopped off more than 38 inches of hair.
Those interested in donating, the next cut will be at
the Snowfest Games Assembly February 12th. Hair
must be a minimum of 8 inches (when straightened),
cleaned, tied back and can be chemically treated.
If you are interested in donating contact Elizabeth.
[email protected]
The Northwest Community Health Center operated by the
Center for Family Health opened at Kidder Middle School on
September 16, 2013. Since that time 366 kids have received
services. The health center is open to all kids and adolescents
who are 21 years old or younger. The health center operates like
a doctor’s office providing the following services:
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Physicals/Well Checks
Immunizations
Sick Visits
Counseling
Medicaid Enrollment
The health center is convenient for parents. Students who attend KMS, Northwest
High, or Northwest Alternative may use the health center without an adult present if
their parent or guardian has given permission. It is open all year round.
Please contact the health center for more information by calling (517) 569-3200
Homeless Act
Provides for
Students in Need
In these tough economic times, the
needs of our school community are
greater than ever. The passage of the
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
allows us to provide assistance to families
and students dealing with homelessness.
This assistance could be in the form of
transportation to and from school, free
meals, academic help, field trip and other
school fees paid, and so on.
A student is considered homeless if
one of the following categories is met:
• Living on the street or in a car or abandoned building, etc.
• Living in a shelter such as Inter-Faith or AWARE.
• Children placed in foster care are considered homeless for the first 6
months they are in the system.
• Doubling up -- Children and immediate family who have moved in with
another family or relative.
• Hotel, Motel -- people who live in welfare sponsored rooms or rooms in
hotels/motels.
18 | Winter 2014
If you know of a family that might qualify according to these guidelines,
please contact your school counselor or Paul Scholz, District Homeless
Liaison Coordinator at 817-4702.
Families and students in need should be aware of governmental
support for the advancement of a student’s education through an
initiative referred to as the McKinney-Vento Act. Any student who
has had their living situation disrupted or strained might find financial
assistance through this governmental program developed for assisting
students in completing school. Students qualify if they and their family
live with another family; or if they themselves live with another family;
or if they are living with an extended family member due to financial
considerations. Basic needs for assisting students in the task of attending
school are areas where assistance might be granted: Summer school;
additional course requirements; field trip costs; and even food and gas
(as appropriate) are areas where suport may be provided.
Contacts for this resource are set up in each school building and are
coordinated through the office of Alternative Education, 517-817-4702.
Northwest’s McKinney-Vento Liaison is Paul Scholz 517-817-4757;
Principal Northwest Alternative High School since 1998. Mr. Scholz also
served as a family and group therapist, counselor, and court liaison for
Starr Commonwealth Schools from 1976-1998 and was a Certified Social
Worker for the State of Michigan from 1981-2010.
Northwest Community Schools
High School News
Summer Hosting Families Needed
Spanish Club News
In October after a “Club de español” meeting, a group of
NWHS and KMS students and their Spanish teachers (Señora Kane,
Señora Klobuchar, and Señora Moulton) went to Plaza Cinema, a
movie theater in Jackson, to see the newly released animated comedy
movie, “The Book of Life.” The movie features the voices of Channing
Tatum, Zoe Saldana, Diego Luna, and Christina Applegate. The story in
the film is partially based on Mexican folklore. The Spanish Club was
able to pay for half of the matinée ticket for each attendee. Everyone
enjoyed the movie’s storyline, animation and adventure. A total of
20 people including students, a parent, teachers, and the “nietas”
(granddaughters) of Señora Klobuchar attended the movie event.
The students from “El club de español” sponsored a trunk at
the Trunk ‘n Treat event held at NWHS in October. Club members,
a staff member, and Señora Moulton donated candy to hand out
during the festivities. Before the event started, students decorated
Señora Moulton’s car with colorful “papel picado” banners, signs, and
encircled it with Dora the Explorer banners. The Dora images are always
popular with the young children. Many young “trick or treaters” took
the opportunity to show off some of their recently acquired Spanish
knowledge by counting in Spanish or responding to the high school
students’ greetings. The “papel picado” banners are the traditional
Mexican folk art used for decoration at parties and special events. This
was the fourth year the group has sponsored a trunk at the annual
event. A big NW “gracias” goes to the club members and parents for
their support.
If students are interested in learning more about joining the
Club, please see Señora Moulton or Señora Kane at NWHS, or Señora
Klobuchar at KMS. The meetings are held after school in room 208, in
Señora Moulton’s room. All students who have an interest in the Spanish
language and culture are welcome to join. The group usually meets
at least once a month during the school year. Parents and community
members who have a connection with the Spanish language via
heritage, a career, or travel, and would like to share your experience
with NW students, please contact Señora Moulton at Rebecca.Moulton@
nwschools.org. We welcome you into our classrooms. ¡Gracias!
Are you interested in opening your home and heart to a teenager from Spain this coming
summer? The Summer Hosting Program is offered through Intercultural Student
Experiences (ISE). ISE is a nonprofit educational organization that offers international
student travel experiences focusing on cultural immersion, cultural learning, and using
languages to bridge across cultures. http://www.isemn.org/family-stay/family-stay-inus.html This 5-week summer hosting program (end of June to end of July) gives our
students the opportunity to learn first-hand about the Spanish culture and to share their
own culture with their new friends.
Señora Moulton, NWHS Spanish Teacher, and Señora Klobuchar, KMS Spanish Teacher,
are the local coordinators of the hosting program. This is the seventh year that the
program has been offered to NWHS Spanish students. Students from KMS Spanish 1
(HS level) classes are also eligible to host. Students from Spain come with their own
spending money and do carry insurance. The students are interested in improving their
English skills and most have had at least two years of English. If you have questions
or would like to speak with former host families to hear more about their experience,
please let us know. Contact Sra. Moulton or Sra. Klobuchar at KMS for an application
form or for more information. Sra. Moulton’s email is [email protected]
and her school phone is (517) 817-4849. Sra. Klobuchar’s email is Angela.Klobuchar@
nwschools.org and her school phone is (517) 817-4998.
Student from Spain (Lucia
Gómez), Jaden Adler and her
mother.
The Arthur family and
student (Adrian Rodrigo)
from Spain.
Mrs. Ward, daughter, and student
(Celia Ferrer) from Spain.
Northwest High School Building An International Connection
Photo courtesy of Nicole
Bartolovich
The Northwest Travel Club is a great opportunity for Northwest High School students to explore
the world at large! We will be providing chances for local travel and exploration as well as
opportunities abroad (Costa Rica 2015!!). At our meetings we learn about other cultures, foods,
dances, and lifestyles! So far we have learned about Greek and German cultures, and have
sampled foods from each location. Future meetings will focus on Ireland, Spain, France, Brazil,
and Australia. We will also be working towards selecting our next major international travel
destination for 2017.
All Northwest High School students interested in travel, culture, and adventure are encouraged to
join us! We are asking the great Mountie Community that if you have been to places around the
world and are willing to share your experiences with the club, please contact Tracy Dryer at tracy.
[email protected].
At a recent Club de
español meeting, students
played a variety of
games including Spanish
Pictionary.
Student Government Update
Snowfest 2015
NWHS Student Government will be sponsoring Snowfest activities the
week of February 9-14, 2015. The Snowfest game will take place on Friday,
February 13 with the court presentation during halftime of the boys varsity
basketball game against Coldwater. The semi-formal Snowfest Dance will
take place on Saturday, February 14 from 9-11:30 pm in the high school
cafeteria. See Mrs. Tanner or Mrs. Crockett for more details!
Photos courtesy of Señora
Moulton
One of the favorite costumes
for the students from Spanish
Club was a young girl dressed
as “La Catrina” an iconic
figure of the Mexican Día de
Muertos, or “Day of the Dead.”
Winter Blood Drive
Do you want to save a life? Your blood donation can help save up to 3!
The next blood drive is Thursday, January 22 from 9 am – 3 pm in the
high school Media Center. Students over the age of 16 who meet weight
and health requirements are eligible to donate. You can sign up at www.
redcross.org or see Mrs. Tanner in room 515 to donate or volunteer.
Winter 2014 | 19
www.nwschools.org
High School News
The Mounties Girls’ Golf Team finished another successful season
with their 6th straight appearance at the Division 3 State Finals.
Congratulations to the Girls’ Golf Team who finished their season competing in the D-3 State
Finals at MSU where they placed 10th in the State! The team was led in scoring by Kylie
Gough with 174 and Allie Lefere with 176 to place 18th and 25th respectively out of the top
90 golfers from more than 250 golfers in Division 3. Emily Hill posted a 198 and Megan
Rose 212 at the State Finals to round out the scoring. Our 6 senior golfers include Kylie
Gough, Allie Lefere, Emily Hill, Megan Rose, Sara Corravo and Emalee Cantlin. Together they
are one of the winningest teams in school history with a total of 56 wins and only 3 losses
during their 4 years. In addition, they have won 12 tournament championships, 3 Conference
Championships, 1 Regional Championship and have placed in the top 10 at the State Finals
in each the last 4 seasons. The Lady Mountie Golfers are also one of the smartest teams in the
State and have earned Team Academic All-State Honors this year with a combined 3.65 GPA to
continue a 6 year streak. They have represented the Mountie Nation well with their honesty,
integrity and sportsmanship in every competition. It has been a great ride with these senior
girls who will be missed by their teammates and coaches.
Although Sophomore Leah Olmsted will be our only returning golfer with more than one
year of experience, we have a great group of girls that each made tremendous improvements
in their games this season while gaining some valuable tournament experience. Junior
Kara Stevens joined the team this year and will be our lone Senior next year. She has great
potential to fill a varsity role as does Freshman Anya Frever who ended the season with a
personal best 46. We will also look for Freshmen Madelyn Miller, Megan Brooks and Camryn
Pahl to continue to improve and contribute next year as well. The hard work of these girls in
the off season along with the addition of some experienced incoming Freshmen will be key
to our success. We look forward to continuing the winning tradition of The Northwest Girls’
Golf Program!
E-mail Communication
In order to increase and improve our communication
with parents concerning discipline issues in the high
school, we are asking for parents’ current email addresses.
We would like to update or add current email addresses
to Power School so that we will be able to instantly
communicate with parents any concerns dealing with
their child. We are asking parents to please email their current addresses
to Kim Britton ([email protected]) or call 517-817-4820.
NW Athletic Boosters presents
THE NW SPIRIT STORE
(now online)
featuring our own “Mountie” models.
Please visit us at
http://www.nwathleticboosters.com/spirit-store
and get your “Mountie Fan” Gear on.
A portion of the proceeds benefit the
NW Athletic Boosters.
Thank you for shopping The NW
Spirit Store.
Mountie
Nation
Station
NW Broadcasting
Past Yearbooks for Sale
2014 – 2 books
2013 – 7 books
2012 – 2 books
2011 – 8 books
2010 – 4 books
2008 – 7 books
2007 – 1 books
2006 – 6 books
2005 – 2 books
2004 – 2 books
2003 – 5 books
2002 – 2 books
2001 – 2 books
2000 – 1 book
1997 – 6 books
1996 – 1 books
1995 – 1 book
1994 – 3 books
1993 – 3 books
1992 – 2 books
1991 – 2 books
1989 – 3 books
1988 – 1 book
1986 – 1 book
1984 – 2 books
1978 – 1 book
1971 – 1 book
1969 – 1 book
1967 – 1 book
1966 – 1 book
1964 – 1 book
1963 – 1 book
1962 – 1 book
1961 – 1 book
Contact Adviser Miss Hade in room 106, [email protected] ,
or (517) 817-4833 for information and prices. Updated as of 11-19-14
20 | Winter 2014
Northwest High School’s
NEW Television Station!!
Check out our website by
scanning this QR reader or
going to http://www.useducationtv.com/default.
aspx?sid=69958
Follow us on
Instagram at
NWMountieNationStation
NW Broadcasting
Jackson, Michigan
Northwest Community Schools
Alternative High School News
e
n
i
h
S
CAREER CENTER RELATIONSHIP
ALTERNATIVE STUDENTS
Taylor Vowels-Gauthier came to our school last year
and has earned every credit attempted thus far. Taylor
expressed an interest in working with younger children
and has been given an opportunity by Northwest’s Day
Care program to further explore this interest. Taylor has
been assisting the day care school during her first hour
class and is bringing in great reviews. Ms. Marrison,
the director of the day care program, says Taylor is very
Taylor Vowels-Gauthier caring and is not hesitant to roll up her sleeves and get
down on the floor to play with the kids. She has been dependable and
follows directions well. The smaller children run to her care and concern,
readily showing excitement for her being a part of their learning experience.
And here at the Alternative High School, it is no surprise Taylor’s grades are
coming in the honor roll range for the first marking period of this school
year.
Luke Anderson has been working at the high school
this year with Ms. Osterberg for his fifth class of the
day when he walks up to the high school from the
Alternative school. So far Luke has been receiving
compliments from the staff. They say the students look
forward to seeing him each day. Ms. Osterberg says, “I
am so pleased with his approach with the kids....he is
building relationships and doing so appropriately. He is
helpful and jumps right in during lessons.” Luke sees
Luke Anderson
this work as a future for himself so he recently attended
a workshop out at the Jackson Intermediate School District complex. The
instructor was so impressed with Luke’s involvement in the process that the
good word got back to the Alternative High School office before the next day.
Alternative
Equestrian
Katie Moss had a
busy summer. A
member of 4H
and Northwest’s
Equestrian team,
Katie spent a lot of productive
time with her horse Kruzer this
summer. Marsh Fires Dream Kruze
is the official name. Kruzer and
the Northwest Equestrian team and
the 4H organization have captured
Katie’s heart and are even laying the
ground work for her future.
Katie has been involved in these
organizations for the past four years
and this summer she brought home
significant hardware reflecting her
hard work and dedication in the
area of working with horses. Katie
brought home numerous awards
recently, but the Grand Champion
Hippology (study of horses) trophy is
her favorite and is displayed in the
school’s trophy case. Please share
our enthusiasm as we congratulate
Katie Moss…………Alternative
Equestrian.
Northwest Alternative students have always
been able to attend the Jackson Area Career
Center, but this year the experiences seem
to be extra exciting. NWAE students are
involved in Welding, Visual Communications,
Firefighting and Junior ROTC.
JROTC has three students involved and
they meet at the Ackerson Lake Alternative
Building out on M-50. We are especially
supportive of the Ackerson Lake program
because their principal used to be Northwest’s own Mr. Chris Adams
who taught Science at our Alternative school. Danyelle Jordan
is new to this program this year and is reaping the benefits of this
involvement. There was a recent competition between Jackson’s
JROTC and a similar program from Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills
area. Competitive events included: shot put, the mile run, gun
shooting, tire flipping, plywood carry, obstacle course and the
stretcher run. The stretcher run involved partners carrying a
stretcher with a 200 pound weight on their stretcher. Although
the competition was narrow with only two schools, Jackson was
victorious and carried home a three foot (this may be a Danyelle
Jordan exaggeration) trophy of which she is quite proud. Nice job
JROTC and good job Danyelle.
PAUL’S CORNER
Northwest Alternative students have been building a new identity
since moving into their own space at the Northwest Education
Center. They have their own building, classrooms, staff and of
course, opportunities.
Paul Scholz, Principal
The teaching staff has patience and hearts of gold and Ms. Jenkins keeps focusing on
the good will. Our students are so blessed with the support from others in the building
too. Sue Neitzke and Susan Wills are Northwest Food Service Employees who serve breakfast and lunch to
the kids every day and enjoy being part of the positive impact. As you can imagine meal times are important
times in the student’s days. And both ladies seem to be naturals for working
with the Alternative population having raised children of their own. Ms. Wills
has three children, two boys and a girl and Ms. Neitzke has four boys. All seven
children are Northwest graduates Danyelle Jordon says, “…….. (they) have
good hearts and are sweet and outgoing.” Junior Hunter Lentz says about
Ms. Neitzke, “she always has something nice to say about us.” And Senior
Dustin Maxon says about them, “…….are always polite and are a perfect fit for
the building.” Thanks to Ms. Patti Russell for finding the perfect fit for the
Alternative building and thanks to the two ladies who make our student’s lives
more enriched.
Mr. Cleve Heyd, has been a welcomed addition to the Northwest Alternative Team
this fall. Mr. Heyd has worked with the school for the past fifteen years as a substitute
teacher and has been working in a more committed capacity for the school this year.
He knows the students well and brings his knowledge of life to the setting. He is
dependable and reliable and works well with our students. Our appreciation goes out
to him and to the Northwest Community as a whole for supporting this addition to the
program.
Winter 2014 | 21
www.nwschools.org
Food Service News
What an exciting beginning of the year we have had in Food Service! The new USDA regulations for Smart Snacks have been implemented
at all our buildings and we continue to serve healthy fun meals.
In October, we had our 4th annual Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Day
where we served all of our foods at the HS PINK! This was a challenge and
Leanne Smith from the Citizen Patriot came and highlighted our events
on MLive! This year, Food Services help spearhead a successful Trunk and
Treat at the Lansing Ave Elementary complex. Our department along with
the Maintenance department used the game Candyland as our theme for
3 trunks. We had lollipop lane and lots of fun decorations! In October, Chef
Brian, Patti and Liz made a authentic Vietnamese Meal with fresh chicken
breast meatballs, whole grain lo mein and amazing pickled vegetables!
Since 2010, the USDA that mandates the reimbursable school meals, has done a major overhaul of the National School Meals Program. Here are a few questions
and answers regarding the regulations:
1. What are some of the many changes to the school lunches that most students may be unaware of?
These include calorie limits, whole grain requirement, mandatory fruit and vegetables, color subgroups (dark green, orange/red, starchy, other) of fruits
and vegetables, milk requirements, sodium reductions and now this year, ala carte.
2. What are some of the positive aspects of the new lunch changes?
They are healthier for students, more fresh items are being highlighted on the menus, manufacturers are required to change product makeup to meet
these requirements. Because of this years ala carte changes, we are offering our “On display” specials as a regular lunch which is less expensive for the
students and also offers these specials at no additional cost for students that participate in the free and reduced meal program.
3.What are the negative aspects?
Some of the regulations are restrictive of our menu offering choices. We are a competitive market and our customers are not a captive audience.
Sometimes it is difficult to compete with other menus that are not overseen by the USDA. For example, grocery stores, convenience stores, restaurants,
etc. Nothing prevents students from bringing a can of Mountain Dew and a bag of chips from home.
3. How has the student body and staff members reacted to the new changes?
From what we have seen and looking at lunch numbers, we are up in lunch sales and down in ala carte sales, which is
exactly what we had anticipated.
4. Why are these changes being made?
Because of the Healthy Hunger Free Kid Act (HHFKA) of 2010
5. Who is initiating these changes?
USDA and MDE (Michigan Department of Education)
6. How long have these changes been going on?
Over the past 10-15 years, we have worked on creating healthy fun choices for the students in our lunch program. We
believe that our customers, staff and students alike have a very educated palate and the days of unhealthy boring foods
are gone. We want our foods to look good and taste good too while creating a warm and inviting dining experience. Presentation is very important as
people eat with their eyes! Again, our customers are not captive, so we need to be progressive and innovative with our foods. We want our lunches to
be remembered as a great part of the day. We work on being progressive and offering students and staff many choices.
7. Do you think a lot of food gets throw away because they are required to get certain foods?
I think in the beginning of the mandatory fruit and vegetable mandate, there was more waste, but we try to always offer items that the kids like. Fresh
fruits are always a success and we also introduce new items for the students to try and over time they have come to like, accept, and eat!
We hope this answers some of the questions you might have. Feel free to stop in and visit our program. We have lots of new and healthy choices for the students
and staff. Please call my office if you have any questions.
My phone number is 517-817-4690.
Patti Russell F.S.D.
22 | Winter 2014
Northwest Community Schools
Northwest Community Schools Placed on the College Board’s 5th Annual
AP® District Honor Roll for Significant Gains in Student Access and Success
A Record 547 School Districts Across the Nation Are Honored
Northwest Community Schools is one of 547 school districts
in the U.S. and Canada being honored by the College Board
with placement on the 5th Annual AP® District Honor Roll for
increasing access to AP course work while simultaneously
maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning
scores of 3 or higher on AP Exams. 2014 is a milestone
year for the AP District Honor Roll, and more districts are
achieving this objective than ever before. Reaching these
goals indicates that the district is successfully identifying
motivated, academically prepared students who are ready
for the opportunity of AP. Since 2012, Northwest Community
Schools has increased the number of students participating
in AP while improving the number of students earning AP
Exam scores of 3 or higher
“Northwest High School is offering an undeniable opportunity
for students. Students responded with hard work and
dedication to this rigor, which in turn will open the doors to
their future. Teachers are devoted to teaching these courses
at a depth of knowledge that has allowed students to perform
well on the AP tests. We have been experimenting with
many initiatives and strategies to expand access to improve
student performance in all areas. We are very proud of this
accomplishment.” said Geoff Bontrager, Superintendent.
Data from 2014 shows that among African American,
Hispanic, and Native American students with a high
degree of readiness for AP, only about half of students are
participating. The first step to delivering the opportunity
of AP to students is providing access by ensuring courses
are available, that gatekeeping stops, and that the doors
are equitably opened so these students can participate.
Northwest Community Schools is committed to expanding
the availability of AP courses among prepared and motivated
students of all backgrounds.
“The devoted teachers and administrators in this district
are delivering an undeniable benefit to their students:
opportunity. When coupled with a student’s hard work, such
opportunities can have myriad outcomes, whether building
confidence, learning to craft effective arguments, earning
credit for college, or persisting to graduate from college on
time.” said Trevor Packer, the College Board’s senior vice
president of AP and Instruction. “We applaud your conviction
that a more diverse population of students is ready for the
sort of rigor that will prepare them for success in college.”
Helping more students learn at a higher level and earn
higher AP scores is an objective of all members of the
AP community, from AP teachers to district and school
administrators to college professors. Many districts are
experimenting with a variety of initiatives and strategies to
determine how to simultaneously expand access and improve
student performance.
In 2014, more than 3,800 colleges and universities around
the world received AP scores for college credit, advanced
placement, and/or consideration in the admission process,
with many colleges and universities in the United States
offering credit in one or more subjects for qualifying AP scores.
Inclusion on the 5th Annual AP District Honor Roll is based on
the examination of three years of AP data, from 2012 to 2014,
looking across 34 AP Exams, including world language and
culture. The following criteria were used.
Districts must:
• Increase participation/access to AP by at least 4
percent in large districts, at least 6 percent in medium districts,
and at least 11 percent in small districts;
• Increase or maintain the percentage of exams taken
by African American, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian/
Alaska Native students; and
• Improve performance levels when comparing the
percentage of students in 2014 scoring a 3 or higher to those
in 2012, unless the district has already attained a performance
level at which more than 70 percent of its AP students are
scoring a 3 or higher.
When these outcomes have been achieved among an
AP student population in which 30 percent or more are
underrepresented minority students (Black/African American,
Hispanic/Latino, American Indian/Alaska Native) and/or 30
percent or more are low-income students (students who
qualify for free or reduced-price lunch), a symbol has been
affixed to the district name to highlight this work.
The complete 5th Annual AP District Honor Roll can be
found here.
Winter 2014 | 23
www.nwschools.org
Mountie Nation Construction
NEW Northwest Early Elementary Construction Updates
- Substantially complete with the site work adjacent to the New Elementary.
- Complete with concrete placement with the exception of pouring the Gymnasium, Cafeteria, and Food
Service areas.
- Working on overhead electrical conduit chases in all units.
- Working on rough-in’s for bathrooms.
- Complete with the rough-in ductwork in many of the classrooms.
- 85% complete with brick installation, 80% complete with burnished block installation, and 15% complete
with the interior block walls.
- Set the steel on the gymnasium roof as well as most of the administrative wing. 95% complete with laying
roof decking on the classroom pods.
- Installing blocking for window installation
approximately 80% complete.
- Installed exterior insulation and taking the
preliminary steps to start installation of the
metal wall panels and window mullions.
- Starting to frame around the exterior windows
and doors.
- Every aspect of this project is on target for
completion by Fall of 2015.
Northwest High School Additions
Construction Updates
- Bleacher installation is 100% complete.
- Subgrade placement in the current gymnasium is complete.
- Cafetorium is rough graded and will stay this way to allow for overhead work.
- Storm/sanitary installation has been started.
- 90% complete with digging footings and backfilling foundation.
- 90% complete with footings and foundations.
- Currently they are working on the bearing walls at the mezzanine to allow for pre-cast concrete
plank placement.
All bond construction progress can be found on www.nwschools.org
and Northwest Community Schools Facebook Page.
Mountie Nation School Calendar
24 | Winter 2014