spring 2013 edition - Grand Rapids Public Schools

Transcription

GRPS New
Vision, New
Choices
Summer
Programs /
Awards
A1-9
A10-13
Athletics
A14-15
Summer
Tips
A16
Parks &
Rec Spring
Schedule
B4-11
SECTION 2 IS A SPECIAL
PAID ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO WEAREGR
May 2013
Vol. 12
Issue 4
Section 1
A joint publication of Grand Rapids Public Schools and the City of Grand Rapids.
Do You Know What School Your Child is
Attending Next Year?
By Teresa Weatherall Neal, M.Ed.
Superintendent of Schools
It’s back to school time! That’s
right. With the school year drawing
to a close in the coming weeks, it is
already time to start thinking about
back to school in the fall.
TERESA
WEATHERALL
NEAL, M.ED.
There are a lot of new and
exciting changes happening at
Grand Rapids Public Schools under
the new Transformation Plan,
and we want to make sure our
students, parents, and prospective parents know
about the changes.
If you are interested in a Theme School or
Center of Innovation school, it is not too late
to apply! Space is limited and an application is
required. Apply today at apply.grps.org.
Included in this edition of We Are GR is news
and information, including all the Transformation
Plan details and highlights of the new, improved
and expanded school choices. Check it out!
I also want to extend my thanks and appreciation to all our students, parents, staff members,
volunteers, community supporters, and the tax-
2013-2014
THEME SCHOOLS
& CENTERS OF INNOVATION
APPLY TODAY
apply.grps.org
Check out all the exciting changes and improvements happening with the GRPS Transformation
Plan. This plan was unanimously approved by the
Grand Rapids Board of Education and overwhelmingly supported by community leaders. All of the
changes listed on page 3 go into effect this fall for the
2013-2014 School Year, unless otherwise noted.
ECRWSS
Postal Customer
PAID
1331 Franklin S.E., PO Box 117
Grand Rapids, MI 49501-0117
payers of Grand Rapids for your support, patience,
and understanding as we transform GRPS. We
have momentum, we are making smart investments, we are already seeing the academic gains,
and our future looks bright.
What’s Happening with GRPS
Transformation?
GRAND RAPIDS, MI
PERMIT #319
NON-PROFIT ORG
ECRWSS
US POSTAGE
Do you know what school your child is
attending next year? Have you filled out the
enrollment forms and registered your child? If not,
please contact your child’s school or the Community & Student Affairs Department at 819-2150
today! You can also learn more about the enrollment process, requirements, and access on-line
enrollment forms at www.grps.org/enroll.
Learn more, check out new attendance area maps,
and review the Frequently Asked Questions at
www.grps.org/transformationplan.
❙❚■ see Transformation updates / A3
Follow us:
Stay informed – visit us online at www.WeAreGR.com | Sign up for e-news
Thanks to the generosity of our advertisers, this newsletter was funded using minimal taxpayer dollars.
2
GRPS news
May 2013
Two GRPS Students Receive the
Gates Millennium Scholarship
Worth up to $350,000 per student
This year, two students from GRPS
were selected for the Gates Millennium Scholarship. The Gates Millennium Program (GMS) selects 1,000
talented students each year to receive
a good-through-graduation scholarship to use at any college or university
of their choice. The goal of GMS is
to promote academic excellence and
to provide an opportunity for outstanding minority students in need of
financial assistance to help reach their
highest potential (www.gmsp.org).
Kaleab Mamo and Tonyea Brown
are both recipients of this scholarship,
which will provide funding for
their entire college career up to
$350,000 each.
to help women, which inspires him to
do the same. When he first received
the news that he was a finalist, he
was asked about this opportunity and
what it would mean to him if he won.
Kaleab answered, “I would like to help
people get cures and treatments necessary around the world in the future. If
I win the Gates scholarship, my college
career would be pleasant to the fullest
extent, and I would be able to focus
intensely on learning, rather than
stress on how I would end up paying
expenses for college.”
Tonyea is a senior at Ottawa Hills
High School, and she will attend
Michigan State University in the fall.
Tonyea plans to study accounting with
a long term goal of working as a CPA
and one day owning her own firm.
When receiving the news that she
was a finalist for this scholarship and
asked what it would mean to her if
she received this award, she said with
an enormous smile, “It would mean
the world to me and make my life so
much easier. It would motivate me
to pursue what I want to do in life. I
am passionate about my educational
goals and this would make all things
possible.”
“This amazing scholarship makes
it possible for both students to pursue
their dreams and embark on a new
journey without worrying about any
of their college expenses. We are
so proud of them,” said Superintendent Teresa Weatherall Neal.
Kaleab is a senior in the GRACEP
program at Creston High School. In
the fall, he will attend the University of Michigan to major
in Biochemistry. Kaleab has
been deeply influenced by
the works of Dr. Catherine
Hamlin, an 88-year-old
Australian gynecologist who
currently lives and works
in Ethiopia. When describing Dr. Hamlin he refers to
her immense generosity and
thoughtfulness and always wanting
Kaleab Mamo and
Tonyea Brown,
Gates Millennium
Scholarship recipients.
Academy for Design and Construction Named Winner of
Connecting with Community Awards
On Thursday, May 9, 2013, Grand
Rapids Public Schools Academy for
Design and Construction was honored as the winner of the WOOD-TV
Annual Connecting with Community
Awards.
The Academy for Design and Construction is a Center of Innovation for
9th-12th grade students. As freshman,
students are paired with an industry
mentor, who works with them until
graduation. This unique partnership
between the school and more than 50
local businesses offers students the opportunity to learn from experts in the
field. Students can choose from one
of two tracks, construction or design.
Students on the construction track
gain real experience building a home
through a partnership with Habitat for
Humanity. Local design firms provide
internships to students on the design
track. These partnerships impressed
the judges, who selected the Academy
for Design and Construction as the
winner out of eight finalists.
This fall, the Academy for Design
and Construction will be moving from
Union High School to Innovation
Central, where they will be joined by
three other Centers of Innovation in
the historic Central High building.
The Academy for Design and Construction, GRAPCEP/Engineering and
Biomedical School, the School of Business Leadership and Entrepreneurship,
and the School of Health Sciences will
pool their innovation, talent, partnerships, and resources for maximum
academic impact.
Centers of Innovation offer a
rigorous college-career prep curriculum with hands-on learning experiences that take students outside the
classroom and connect them with
leading professionals, job providers,
and high-paying, high-demand jobs
of the future.
Grand Rapids Public Schools
WEAREGR
May 2013
Grand Rapids
Board of Education
2012-2013
Wendy Falb, PhD, President
Maureen Quinn Slade, Vice President
Jon O’Connor, Treasurer
Raynard Ross, Secretary
Tony Baker, PhD
David LaGrand
Rev. Nathaniel Moody
Senita Lenear
Monica Randles, M.D.
Teresa Weatherall Neal, M.Ed
Superintendent of Schools
Equal Opportunity Institution: Grand Rapids Public
Schools, as an Equal Opportunity Institution, complies
with federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination
and harassment, including Title IV and Title VII (with
amendments) of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of
the Educational Amendment of 1972, Section 504 of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Veterans Readjustment
Act of 1974 as amended 38 USC 20-12 and the
Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990. It is the policy
of the school board that no person, on the basis of
race, sex, height, weight, color, religion, national origin
or ancestry, age, marital status, disability or veteran
status, shall be discriminated against in educational
programs and activities, employment and admission.
The District’s Civil Rights Compliance Officer is Larry
Johnson. Mr. Johnson may be contacted at 1331
Franklin S.E., P.O. 117, Grand Rapids, MI 49501-0117
or (616) 819-2035.
Title IX Annual Athletics Compliance Report: Grand
Rapids Public Schools is committed to securing
athletic equity and provides annual Title IX reporting to
the athletes and parents in an effort to bring increased
attention and resources towards ensuring that
gender equity as required by Title IX of the Education
Amendments for 1972. Grand Rapids Public Schools
annual report is available at www.grps.org.
To comply with the No Child Left Behind Act of
2001, Parents Right-To-Know, parents may request information regarding the professional qualifications of the
student’s classroom teachers.
Please contact Micky Savage, Director of Human Resources, in Human Resources via e-mail
[email protected] or at (616) 819-2028.
WEAREGR
May 2013
is published by
GRPS Communications Office
1331 Franklin St. SE, P.O. Box 117
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-0117
Phone: (616) 819-2149
Fax: (616) 819-3480
www.grps.org | www.WeAreGR.com
John Helmholdt, Director of Communications
& External Affairs
Kalli Zielbauer, Communications Technician
Design and publication support by:
CUSTOM PUBLISHING
www.flourishmarketingsolutions.com
GRPS news
May 2013
GRPS
SCHOOLS
A BRIGHTER
FUTURE
3
City High-Middle:
West Michigan’s Top Performing School
City High-Middle is the single top performing school in West Michigan and the second highest performing in the entire state based on MME/
ACT scores. It has also consistently been ranked among “America’s Top
Schools” by U.S. News and World Report. City is also the only school in
the region to offer the coveted International Baccalaureate Middle Years
and Diploma programs – THE international standard of excellence in K12
education.
In addition to the academic rigor and performance, City is known for
its active parent and volunteer community and highly qualified, dedicated
group of teachers and support staff. The focus of City is a humanities, science, and technology curriculum created under the auspice
of the Center for Economicology. This curriculum is integrated along with Honors, Advanced Placement, and Dual
Enrollment courses. Community service is also a requirement for all students.
Due to high demand and academic success, this fall
City High-Middle and the 6th Grade Center for Economicology (another school ranking in the top 5% in
the state for academic performance) are moving to the
former Creston High School facility located at 1720
Plainfield Ave. NE.
To learn more, arrange for a tour, meet with staff
and parents, or talk with the school principal, please
call 819-2380.
❙❚■ see brighter future / A4
Transformation
Continued from page 1
New, Improved, and Expanded
Theme Schools
– New Gerald R. Ford Academic Center
PK-8 college prep focused school with
a parent compact requirement, single
gender/co-ed classes, Spanish language requirement, strong character/
leadership expectations, KSSN, and
more.
– Relocating and expanding the region’s
top performing schools, City High
Middle and the 6th grade Center
for Economicology, at the Creston
campus.
– Reinvesting in C.A. Frost Environmental Science Academy, City HighMiddle, Coit Creative Arts Academy,
Grand Rapids Montessori, North
Park Montessori, Southwest Community Campus/dual immersion, Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy,
Blandford, Zoo, and the 6th Grade
Center for Economicology.
Strengthening our Centers of
Innovation schools
– New “Innovation Central High
School” with four Centers of Innovation schools relocating and pooling
the talent, innovation and resources
on one campus at the former Central
High building. Innovation Central
High School includes the Academy
for Design and Construction, School
of Health Sciences, School of Business Leadership & Entrepreneurship
and GRAPCEP/Engineering &
Biomedical School.
– Grand Rapids University Prep Academy is relocating to a new, state of the
art, high tech building located just
south of Wealthy on Division near
the new Downtown Market.
Expanding the Number of K-8 and
PreK-8 schools
– Aberdeen, Dickinson, Gerald R. Ford
Academic Center, North Park Mon-
tessori, Shawmut Hills, and KEC
Oakleigh are all expanding to either
K-8 or Pre-K 8 schools.
Reinvesting in Neighborhood
Schools
– Re-opening Stocking Elementary
– Congress Elementary and Mulick
Park Elementary partnerships with
neighborhood organizations
Requiring School Uniforms
– Elementary and K-8 in 2013-14
– Middle School in 2014-15
– High School in 2015-16
Eliminating Year Round Calendar
– Campus Elementary, Coit Creative
Arts Academy, Dickinson Elementary,
and Grand Rapids Montessori PreK-8
are all switching back to the traditional school calendar with a post-Labor
Day school start.
Strengthening and Expanding
Language Centers to Serve
English Language Learners
Closing Schools
– Campau Park Elementary, Covell
Elementary, Creston High School,
Hillcrest, KEC Mayfield, Ridgemoor,
Shawnee Park, Wellerwood, and West
Leonard.
Consolidating Varsity Athletics to
Two Teams
4
GRPS news
GRPS
SCHOOLS
A BRIGHTER
FUTURE
May 2013
Region’s Only
Tuition-Free, PK-12
Montessori
Grand Rapids is proud to offer
the region’s only tuition-free preschool through 12th grade Montessori program with three schools
on two campuses — North Park
Montessori (PK-8), Grand Rapids
Montessori (PK-8), and Grand Rapids Montessori High School (9-12).
Our Montessori schools
consistently demonstrate
strong academic performance, at times outperforming neighboring
school districts and charter
schools. In fact, a few
years ago, Grand Rapids
Montessori was named
among “America’s Top 300
Schools” by U.S. News and
World Report. Just this
year, Grand Rapids Montessori High School posted
the single largest increase in
graduation rates.
GR Montessori
We have a 40 year history
of tuition-free public education and the Grand Rapids
Montessori program is one of
the longest running programs
in the United States.
The Montessori method focuses
on experiential learning and allows
students to choose meaningful
activities under the guidance of a
specially-trained teacher who gives
the students the opportunity to develop independence, concentration,
motivation, persistence, and self
discipline. In Montessori, a child
develops as a whole person in a safe,
collaborative, and challenging environment while learning language
arts, mathematics, sensorial studies,
cultural studies, and practical
life skills.
Montessori students learn in
cohorts of three age levels. Typically,
students will have the same teacher
for three years. The multi-age classroom allows the student to become
part of a learning community that
fosters respect, understanding, and
tolerance.
To learn more please call North
Park Montessori at 819-2848 or
Grand Rapids Montessori at 8192922.
Innovation Central:
Combining
Strengths, Talent,
and Innovation on
One Campus
Coming this fall, four “Centers
of Innovation” schools will be merging together, all on one campus in
the historic Central High building,
and pooling their innovation, talent, partnerships, and resources for
maximum academic impact. The
four schools at Innovation Central
will be: Academy for Design and
Construction; GRAPCEP/Engineering and Biomedical School; School
of Business, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship; and School of Health
Sciences.
These schools offer a rigorous
college-career prep curriculum with
hands-on learning experiences that
take students outside the classroom
and connect them with leading professionals, job providers, and highpaying, high-demand jobs of the
future. Partners include, but are not
limited to: Spectrum Health, Amway,
Steelcase, Rockford Construction,
Triangle Associates, Progressive AE,
Van Andel Institute, MSU Medical School, Davenport University,
Academy for Design
and Contruction
GVSU, GRCC, FSU, Michigan
Tech, GE Aviation, Life EMS, and
many more.
Here are highlights of each individual Center of Innovation:
Academy for Design
and Construction
– Focus on architecture, engineering,
design, and construction through
real world experiences
– Active involvement of industry
professionals in student learning’
– Partnerships with businesses,
colleges, and universities
GRAPCEP/Engineering
and Biomedical School
– 99% graduation rate
– 90% college enrollment rate
– Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) focus and
partnerships with seven leading
universities, Van Andel Institute,
GE Aviation, and more
School of Business, Leadership,
& Entrepreneurship
– Courses in business technology,
marketing, management,
multi-media, accounting, and
business law
– Partnerships with leading job providers and universities including
Amway, Steelcase, and others
School of Health Sciences
– Customized college-career courses
in fastest growing, high-paying
health care industry
– The region’s only high school
located near the “Medical Mile”
and partnered with leading health
industry providers including
Spectrum Health, Life EMS, Van
Andel Institute, MSU Medical
School of Health
Sciences
GRPS news
May 2013
University Prep
Academy: New
Building, Small
Class Sizes,
Rigorous College
Prep
School, GVSU Health Sciences,
and more
– Opportunities for job shadowing
and internships with leading health
care providers
To contact us to schedule a tour,
meet with staff and parents, or talk
with the principals, please call 8192149.
Single Gender
Classes, ParentSchool Contract,
Spanish Requirement:
The New Gerald
R. Ford Academic
Center
Coming fall 2013! Gerald R. Ford
Academic Center is a new district-wide
preschool-8th grade theme school offering single gender and co-ed classes,
a parent-teacher compact with high
expectations for involvement, a Spanish
or Chinese class requirement, and more.
Based on the successful Southeast
Academic Center model, the new Ford
Academic Center will be headed by Jerry
McComb, the current principal of Coit
Creative Arts Academy (one of the top
5% performing schools in Michigan)
and a former teacher at Southeast Academic Center. Former principals Ruth
Jones and Edna States-Webley have also
agreed to assist with the development of
the new school.
Coit Creative Arts Academy
Coit Creative Arts
Academy: A Top
Performing School
Coit Creative Arts Academy was
recently ranked among the top 5%
performing schools in the entire State
of Michigan. It is a district-wide theme
school located in the historic Belknap
Lookout neighborhood offering an
arts-based curriculum for students
and families seeking learning experiences that integrate creative expression,
movement, and music. Students learn
through visual arts, music, dance, and
performance. Coit is also a designated
“community school” with Kent School
Services Network services including student and family support services, health
and dental services, and more.
Call 819-2390 to schedule a tour,
meet with staff and parents, or talk with
the principal.
Grand Rapids University Prep
Academy (Uprep) is known for
its “firsts.” It was the first “Center
of Innovation” school developed
through public-private partnerships and
modeled after a very successful charter
school in Michigan with a 90%+ graduation rate and 90%+ post-secondary
enrollment rate. It is the first and only
school in the region that requires “small
class sizes” with 18:1 ratio. Now, UPrep
is set to become the first public school
to be located in a new, state of the art
facility built “tax free” thanks to the
generosity of community donors.
5
parental and teacher guidance. UPrep
has a rigorous college prep curriculum
that is project-based and passion driven.
There are intentional career exploration
opportunities through job shadowing
and professional internships.
To learn more, schedule a tour, meet
with staff and parents, or talk with the
principal, please call 819-1010.
UPrep Building Completed
This fall, UPrep will be relocating
to their new state-of-the-art building
located on 512 S. Division, near Cathedral Square and the new Downtown
Market. This $9.2 million dollar project
has been privately funded by generous donors, which is “tax free” to the
tax payers of the city of Grand Rapids.
This new building is 53,260 square feet
including three floors. The entire building has flexible workspaces for students,
natural light, and will meet Energy Star
building standards, which will help save
on energy costs.
The success of the University Prep
Academy model is its commitment to
educating “one child at a time” featuring
a high tech/high touch
focus and creating a
culture and environment
of inclusiveness, innovation, and diversity.
Small class sizes are
only one part of the
model. Students develop
individualized “Learning
Plans” that they create with
rep
University P
To learn more, please call 819-2149.
University Prep
ic Center
rd Academ
Gerald R. Fo
GRAPCEP
NEW VISION. NEW CHOICES .
WE ARE
THE NEW GRPS .
6
GRPS news
May 2013
Stocking Elementary Re-Opening – ENROLL TODAY!
As part of the GRPS Transformation
Plan, Stocking Elementary is re-opening
this fall for the 2013-2014 school year.
Stocking will serve students in
preschool through 5th grade. Ms. JoAnn
Riemersma, a top-notch school leader,
has been named principal.
Stocking Highlights Include:
“Challenge Scholars” feeder school /
free college scholarship: Stocking feeds
into Westwood Middle and Union High
School making the students eligible for
the Challenge Scholars initiative that
includes college scholarships or vocational training.
KSSN Community School Site:
Stocking is a designated Kent School
Services Network site complete with
wrap-around services for students and
family (DHS, Network 180, Cherry St.
Health Services, and more).
ELL/ESL Service Center: Stocking is a designated “Cultural Center”
providing enhanced services for English
Language Learners.
Strong Parent and Community
Partnerships: Stocking will have a
strong partnership with Steepletown
Ministries, West Grand Neighborhood
Organization, and area businesses and
churches.
Elementary Athletics / After School
Program: Stocking will have elementary
athletics (soccer, cross country, basketball, and track) and is targeted for the
LOOP after school program based on
funding.
Positive Behavior Intervention
and Support (PBIS): Stocking will be
implementing PBIS to
support student behavior,
leadership, attendance,
and academics.
Updated Facility:
Our crews are busy getting the school ready.
Here is some of what is
being done this spring:
–D
emolition work
taking place
–E
levator shaft
foundation ready
to be completed
–P
lumbing & electrical rough-ins
are in progress
The attendance area boundary map
may be found at www.grps.org/
transformationplan.
If you are interested in enrolling
your child at Stocking, visit
apply.grps.org or call Student Services
at 819-2150.
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GRPS news
May 2013
Enrolling Your Child in Preschool:
Introducing the Preschool Hotline: 616.447.2409
You can see your young child learning and discovering new things every
day. Did you know children learn more
from birth to five years than at any
other point in their lives? This is the
ideal time for a variety of educational
experiences and activities for your child.
A great way to help them grow and give
them these experiences is to enroll them
in preschool.
Children in preschool develop the
basic skills they need to be successful in
school and life. Preschool programs help
your child explore the world around
them and build skills. These skills
include language and reading, developing confidence and forming healthy
relationships with others.
Activities might include:
Pretend play
Painting & drawing
Stories & songs
Running, jumping & climbing
Playing games with others
Numbers, letters & shapes
Your Preschool Options
Most families enroll their child in
preschool at age 3 or 4. Experts say that
while multiple years of pre-school are
helpful, the most critical time for a child
to attend is the year before they begin
kindergarten. Children who attend
preschool develop the basic skills they
need to be successful in school.
There are three types of preschools
for children in Kent County:
Head Start
This is a free, federally-funded
program for 3 and 4 year olds and their
families who meet income eligibility
requirements. Head Start’s services focus
on education, nutrition, medical/ dental
care and social services.
Great Start Readiness
Program (GSRP)
GSRP is a free program made possible by state funding. It is available to
four-year old children who meet certain
financial and/or other eligibility criteria.
Tuition Based Programs
A variety of programs are available
through your local school district, area
churches, private companies and more.
These programs charge a tuition fee to
participate.
Find the Right Program
for Your Child
Early childhood educators in Kent
County have joined together to help
you decide where and when to enroll
your child in preschool. We’ve created
the Preschool Hotline to answer your
pre-school questions and connect you
with the program that’s right for your
child.
Now, there’s just one number
to call! 616.447.2409
Ask us your questions and tell us
about your goals for your child. We’ll
use that information, plus your address
and income (which remain completely
confidential) to let you know which
programs your child is eligible for. If
you like, we can even directly connect
you to one that meets your needs.
What Does This Mean
for GRPS Parents?
Beginning this year, all Grand
Rapids Public Schools parents wishing
to enroll their child in preschool will be
using the new Preschool Hotline. You
can call the hotline at 616-447-2409 or
complete the process online at http://
preschool.kentisd.org. If you have any
questions, you can contact the GRPS
Early Childhood Office at 819-2111.
The first round application deadline for
preschool is June 15, 2013.
Reprinted with permission from the
Kent ISD.
Is Your Child
Old Enough for
Kindergarten?
Recent legislation has
changed the kindergarten entry
age. The entry age will be gradually changed to require children
to be 5 years old by September
1 rather than the current cutoff
date of December 1.
2013-14 School Year
A child who resides in a
public school district or public school academy providing
kindergarten may enroll if the
child is at least 5 years of age on
November 1, 2013.
2014-15 School Year
October 1, 2014.
2015-16 School Year
September 1, 2015.
State of Michigan: Act. No.
198. Effective 6/26/12
During the transition, if your
child doesn’t meet the new cutoff
date, but you feel they are ready
for kindergarten, you can request
a waiver. Waivers are due June
1st. Please contact the GRPS
Early Childhood Office at 8192111 for more information and
to request a waiver form.
7
grps news
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GRPS is fortunate to have literally
thousands of volunteers, partners,
friends and supporters who give
their time, talent and treasure to
support our students, parents, staff,
and schools. Words do not begin to
express the thanks and appreciation
we have for the individuals, organizations, institutions, and foundations
for their generous support. On behalf
of Superintendent Teresa Weatherall
Neal, the Grand Rapids Board of
Education, the 3,000+ employees,
and 17,000+ students, we want to say
THANK YOU!
Offering degrees in more than 60 majors, including
SPECIAL THANKS TO…
Environmental Science
Fish Health
Fire Science
Homeland Security
Nursing
Pre-Med, Pre-Law
Grand Rapids Student Advancement Foundation, Doug and Maria
DeVos Foundation, Grand Rapids
Community Foundation, Kellogg
Foundation, Steelcase Foundation,
Wege Foundation, Keller Foundation,
Sebastian Foundation, Frey Foundation, Peter F. Secchia Family Foundation, and many more.
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
www.lssu.edu • 888-800-LSSU
TM
Have a question or concern about the
Grand Rapids Public Schools?
Call the GRPS Action Line
at 616.819.2500
Action Line is a 24-hour answering service
designed to handle calls that come in around the clock.
gracias
GRPS Partners, Volunteers, Friends and Supporters
Redefining the Classroom
Applied Geographic
Information Science
Business Administration
Conservation Leadership
Education
Engineering
grazzi
kiitos
spasibo
tanan
THANK YOU
koszi
Merci
havala
paldies
obrigado
May 2013
dzieki
8
Amway, Spectrum Health, Steelcase, Meijer, Christman Co., Triangle
Associates, Rockford Construction,
Cascade Engineering, Life EMS Ambulance, Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille,
GE Aviation, Van Andel Institute,
and countless other businesses and
organizations.
Heart of West Michigan United
Way, Hispanic Center of WMI,
Hispanic Chamber, Black Chamber,
Grand Rapids Chamber, Grand Rapids Urban League, NAACP, ACLU,
LINC Community Revlitalization,
Literacy Center of WMI, WMI
Asian American Association, ELO
Network, Seeds of Promise, East Hills
Council of Neighbors, Creston Neighborhood Association, Talent 2025,
faith-based and community partners,
and many more.
Kent ISD, Kent County School
Superintendents, Grand Rapids Christian Schools, Grand Rapids Catholic
Schools, East Grand Rapids Public
Schools, Potter’s House, Grand Rapids
Child Discovery Center, and more.
Kent School Services Network,
Network 180, Kent County Department of Human Services, Kent
County Health Department, Arbor
Circle, Campfire USA, YMCA, DA
Blodgett Services, and all family and
child support agency providers.
GRCC, GVSU, MSU, FSU,
UofM, Davenport University, Michigan Tech University, and all our higher
education partners.
City of Grand Rapids, Mayor
George Heartwell, Grand Rapids City
Commissioners, City Manager Greg
Sundstrom, and the City of Grand
Rapids staff.
Kent County, Kent County Commissioner Chairman Dan Koorndyk,
Kent County Commissioners, Kent
County Administrator Daryl Dellabio,
and Kent County staff.
Governor Rick Snyder and WMI
Senators and Representatives, particularly Senators David Hildenbrand
and Tonya Schuitmaker and Reps.
Brandon Dillon, Winnie Brinks, and
Lisa Lyons.
President Barack Obama, U.S.
Senators Carl Levin and Debbie
Stabenow, and Congressmen Justin
Amash and Bill Huizenga.
And many, many more.
THANK YOU!
grps news
May 2013
City High Students Visit Costa Rica
The 3rd annual City High-Costa Rica
trip took place in April. The group of 9
students and 2 staff experienced a 10 day
trip throughout the bio-diverse and peaceloving nation.
The journey was focused on Sustainability,
Spanish Language, and Costa Rican Culture. Plans were ambitious and ranged
from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean with rain forest, cloud forest, dry
tropical forest and sweltering tropics in
between. One 3-day stop included partnering up with an IB, K-12 school (La
Paz Community School) for student
shadowing, meals shared, community
service projects…cultural interchange!
They did other meaningful service work at another very small
rural community school in a remote village in the cloud forest.
A capstone experience included staying at EARTH Univ. for a couple of days
of sustainability workshops, organic farm and homestead tours, micro-economy/
cooperatives demonstrations and renewable energy workshops. Check out the blog
from the trip: http://cityhighincostarica2013.blogspot.com/
Principal Goes
to the Moon
Shawmut Hills students read 238,900
minutes during March is Reading Month. That’s the number
of miles it takes to
send someone to the
moon. To celebrate,
Principal Sara Melton
blasted off for “the
moon” during a short
assembly and spent the
rest of the afternoon on
the roof in a “space ship”
(canopy tent). Getting them there safely
Dean Transportation is proud to serve the students of the
Grand Rapids Public Schools and to be a partner with the
Grand Rapids community.
Olympic Gymnast Jordyn
Wieber Visited Union
to Speak to Female Athletes
ds Press.
Grand Rapi
ve and The
ission of
© 2012 MLi rved. Used with perm
se
ess.
Pr
ds
pi
All rights re
Ra
The Grand
MLive and
Olympic Gymnast Jordyn Wieber visited
Union High School in April to speak to
female student athletes from Westwood
Middle School and Union High School.
Students had an opportunity to hear from
Jordyn about the importance of setting
goals, working hard, and staying in school.
Each athlete in attendance also received
an autographed picture.
deanschoolbus.com
|
deantrailways.com
9
10
summer programs
May 2013
School Based
Health Centers
We are open all summer
for the health care needs of
our students!*
Creston High School
Ottawa Hills High School
Union High School
776-5120
776-5110
791-6593
Please call to schedule appointments for physicals
or immunization updates. Mental health services will
also be available.
Same day appointments for illness, injuries, or other health concerns are available.
All insurances will be billed if applicable; if no insurance, visit is paid for by MDCH
grant. Parent must be present if consent is not on file.
*between the ages of 10 – 21 years old; call for younger children appointment availability
Grand Rapids Joins Growing List of
Cities Participating in National Ride
for Reading Week
Thanks to the Grand Rapids
Bicycle Company and their partnership with Campus Elementary, Grand
Rapids joined a list of 19 other cities
participating in the 2nd Annual National Ride for Reading week May
5-11, 2013.
The National Ride For Reading’s
mission is to promote literacy and
healthy living through the distribution of books via bicycle to children
from low-income neighborhoods.
The inaugural Ride for Reading week
last year had 11 cities signed up.
“We saw what they were doing
across the country and wanted to
make sure Grand Rapids is part of
this movement,” said Thomas Fish,
store manager at Grand Rapids Bicycle Company. “Campus Elementary is just a few blocks and a nice
bike ride away from our shop so it
was a natural connection. We hope
to do even more next year.”
Better World Books and others
donated over 1,000 books for the
students of Campus Elementary.
Each student in the school got to
pick 3-4 books to take home.
Calling all BEEPS, their families,
friends and supporters:
Early Bird Registration is open!
BEEP
Reunion
Celebrating
40 years
Aug. 9-10, 2013
Go to blandfordbeeps.org for more info & register before
June 30 to save 25% off your ticket price. Full price of $20
per day starts July 1. Activities include:
• Horseshoes
• Archery
• Felting Bee
• Nordhouse Dunes Backpacking
• Pleine Air Painting
• Blacksmithing
• Walk/Talk w/Mary Jane Dockeray
• Lake Michigan outings on
GVSU research boats
• International Potluck Dinner
• Blandford Farmer Larry Fegel
• James Ashley, BEEP ’74-’75,
current Mars Rover project
collaborator.
Friends & family welcome! Find us on Facebook and help
spread the word: facebook.com/blandfordbeeps
2013 Youth Farm Team (YFT)
Jr. YFT June 12-July 12 for ages 7-10. Wed. & Thur. 1pm to 3pm.
Take your love of food, animals, and the farm through a season of growing. Agriculture leads the way as nature reveals itself through garden
experiments, compost feud, chicken and goat chores, and so much more!
$160 Member/$200 Non-member. Limited scholarships available.
YFT June 12-July 12 for ages 11-15. Wed. - Fri. 9am to 12pm.
Participants will discern the ins-and-outs of sustainable agriculture and
discover a lot about the world we live in through germinating seeds,
sustainable pest management, chicken and goat chores, backyard beekeeping, and so much more! Participants will share their new knowledge
of sustainable food at the Fulton Street Farmers Market on Fridays.
$250 Member/ $300 Non-Member. Limited scholarships available.
Does your child love to spend
time outdoors? Would you like
your child to learn about
sustainable food systems while
developing valuable job and
leadership skills?
For more information, please visit:
www.blandfordnaturecenter.org
or call
Jesica Lamden 616.735.6240 x14
summer programs
May 2013
11
Hunger Doesn’t Take a Summer Vacation
Children 18 years of age or younger may participate
at no charge! A nutritious lunch is available at the
following locations. Please check with the specific
site for snack and breakfast availability. Many of
these sites also have exciting summer activities
scheduled for your child as well!
Summer Sites:
The Grand Rapids Public Schools Nutrition Services
Department will be sponsoring the USDA funded Summer
Meals programs this summer in locations throughout the
city. Everyone wins with the Summer Meal program!
Meals are available beginning June 17th. See below for
specific start times. This is a great opportunity for families
to stretch their food dollars during the summer months.
Hope
6/17-8-15M-F 12-12:30
Kent Hills
6/17-7/25
MLK
6/17-7/25M-Th11:30-12:30
Mulick
6/17-7/25M-Th12-12:30
New Faith Temple
6/17-8/9
M-F
12-12:30
M-Th
12-12:30
Aberdeen
6/17-7-25M-Th12-12:30
North Point
Christian
6/17-8/9
M-F
12-12:30
Alger
6/17-7/25M-Th11:30-12:30
Paul I Phillips
6/17-8/9
M-F
12-12:30
Brookside
6/17-7/25M-Th12-12:30
Riverside Middle
6/17-7/25
M-Th
12-12:30
Buchanan
6/17-7/25M-Th12-12:30
Seidman Center
6/17-8/9
M-F
12-12:30
CA Frost
6/17-7/25
Sibley
6/17-7/25M-Th12-12:30
Campus
6/24-7/25M-Th12-12:30
Steil Center
6/17-8/9
Chavez
6/17-7/25M-Th12-12:30
SWCC
6/17-7/25M-Th11:30-12:00
City View
Baptist Church
UMCH
6/10-8/16M-F 11:30-12:30
6/17-8/8
Westwood
6/17-7/25M-Th11:30-12:30
Covell
6/17-7/25M-Th12-12:30
Dickinson
6/17-7/25M-Th12-12:30
GR Ford
6/17-7/25
Harrison
6/17-7/25M-Th11:30-12:30
M-Th
M-F
M-Th
12-12:30
12-12:30
12-12:30
M-F
12-12:30
With so many locations to choose from, make
the summer meal program part of your child’s
summer fun!
12
summer programs
May 2013
2
9-1
GR
AD
1-8 ES
FT
LOOP/LO am 2013
gr
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P
r
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m
Sum nday-Thursday
ES
AD
GR
Mo
5 p.m.
11 a.m. - 17th to July 25
une
25
alendar J
c
r
la
24 to July
u
e
g
n
e
u
R
J
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e calend
Alternativ
LOOP/LOFT SITES
S
SUMMER LOCATION
LOOP/LOFT School Year Site
Aberdeen Elementary
Alger Middle
Brookside Elementary
Buchanan Elementary
Burton Elementary
Burton Middle
CA Frost Elementary
Campau Park *
Campus Elementary *
Central HS
Cesar Chavez Elementary
Coit Elementary *
Covell Elementary
Creston HS
Dickinson Elementary *
E. Leonard Elementary
GR Ford Middle
GR Montessori *
Harrison Park
Ken-O-Sha Elementary
The LOOP/LOFT Summer Program provides a safe,
supervised and structured enrichment program for Grand
Rapids Public Schools students in grades K-12.
Academic enrichment,
recreational, cultural, and
social activities are all part
of this fun summer program!
Lunch & snacks provided!
LOOP/LOFT Summer Site
Aberdeen Elementary
Alger Middle
Buchanan Elementary
Burton Elementary
Burton Middle
CA Frost Elementary
GR Ford Middle
Campus Elementary
Creston HS
Covell Elementary
Covell Elementary
Creston HS
Dickinson Elementary
Aberdeen Elementary
GR Ford Middle
Campus Elementary
Harrison Park
LOOP/LOFT School Year Site
Kent Hills Elementary
Mulick Elementary
North Park
Ottawa Hills HS
Riverside Middle
Shawmut Hills Elementary
Sibley Elementary
SWCC
Union HS
UPREP
Westwood Middle
ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
Service learning, life skills, field
trips, arts, sports, health &
fitness, cooking, music, sewing,
swimming, and much more!
LOOP/LOFT Summer Site
Kent Hills Elementary
Mulick Elementary
CA Frost
Ottawa Hills HS
Riverside Middle
CA Frost Elementary
Sibley Elementary
Union HS
Riverside Middle
Riverside Middle
For more inform
ation on the
LOOP/LOFT pro
gram at your
child’s school,
please call
616-819-2165
.
www.grps.org
ALL LOOP/LOFT SITES WILL BE
CLOSED JULY 4-5, 2013.
awards
May 2013
13
Collaborative Youth Fair Showcases
Student Work in After School Programs
Grand Rapids Public Schools hosted
the annual Collaborative Youth Fair
on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at Creston
High School. All GRPS schools with
a LOOP after school program had a
display table to showcase work, projects,
and activities from the program. The
student’s work was judged and awards
were given. The following students
received awards for their performances:
1st Place – The Campau Barbies,
Campau Park Elementary (repeat winners)
2nd Place – Ishmael Farfan, The
Human Instrument, Mulick Park
Elementary
3rd Place – Medina Averill and
Fatuma Abdi, singing “This Girl is on
Fire,” Campau Park Elementary
Booth award winners included:
Secondary – Union High School,
Austin Suttner and Chris Sanborn
Elementary – Tie between Campus
Elementary School, Cheryl Brewster
and Aberdeen, Kim Vandenberg
Overall Winner – Covell
Elementary, Deatra Spearman (repeat
winner)
Riverside Middle School, Westwood
Middle School, Harrison Park School,
Buchanan Elementary School, Burton
Elementary School, Southwest Community Campus, and Shawmut Hills
Elementary School were named as
honorable mentions.
Other highlights of the event included free lunch, entertainment, games
and activities, prizes, and group and
individual performances, such as singing
and dance.
LOOP is a free after school program
that offers academic support. The program also has an array of youth enrichment activities including recreation, arts
and cultural activities, field trips, and
more.
Camp Fire USA,
City of Grand Rapids Recreation Reaps Rewards (RRR),
and the YMCA of Greater
Grand Rapids manage the
after school sites in collaboration with GRPS. These providers have
expertise in youth development and
coordinate with many other community
partners to provide a variety of youth
enrichment activities.
For more information on the LOOP program, please visit
www.grps.org/loop.
Joint GRPS/Forest Hills/Coopersville Academic
Games Teams Win National Titles
GRPS’ City High-Middle School,
Forest Hills Northern, and Coopersville
High School students joined forces as
one team that competed in the National
Academic Games Tournament in Charlotte, North Carolina April 26-29, 2013.
The team of five guys (L to R in Picture) Dan Scherphorn (City High), Jack
Culp (City High), Ian Wesolowski (City
High), Jacob BronkemBekker (Coopersville), and Trey Moore (FHN) won the
national titles of 2nd in Linguishtik &
3rd in both Equations and Onsets.
Dan Scherphorn and Jack Culp each
had perfect scores in Linguishtik. Jack
Culp and Jacob BronkemBekker each
had perfect scores in Equations.
“Greater Grand Rapids was well
represented by this team of students
from three separate school districts
working together to win national titles,”
said Teresa Weatherall Neal, Superintendent of Schools. “Congratulations to
the students, their parents, and coaches
Deb Sherphorn and Amy Bronkema for
another outstanding year of Academic
Games competition.”
Academic Games
Leagues of America
(AGLOA) is a non-profit
organization dedicated
to developing “Thinking
Kids” of character, excellence, and integrity. AGLOA
provides a series of Academic Games
competitions throughout the nation
resulting in a national championship
tournament in late April each year.
Students who excel academically have a
chance to compete and be rewarded for
their accomplishments. Academic
Games tournaments challenge students to use higher
order thinking skills in the subjects of
Language Arts, English, History and
Mathematics. Players receive recognition and awards in the same way that
sports champions are honored.
14
athletics
May 2013
GRPS Athletics
We are looking forward to moving into a new era of Athletics
for 2013-14. We will be launching our new consolidated athletic
programs at Ottawa Hills High School and Union High School.
We are expecting athletics to be bigger and better than ever!
Open Gyms/Summer Wor
kouts
Ottawa Hills
Boys Basketball: June 10
- August 1, 3-6 p.m., Ot
tawa
Hills main gym
Calling all Volunteers
Any parents, family, or community members interested in volunteering your time
to support student athletes of GRPS, please contact the volunteer office at 819-2150.
This spring we will gladly use assistance with elementary track and mileage club.
There are many more volunteer opportunities in athletics for 2013-14, including
coaches and event assistance in all elementary sports along with the annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot.
Please be aware you will need to fill out our volunteer application and receive an
approved volunteer badge before assisting with any programs.
Special Events:
Elementary Track
Group 1 - May 22, May 28, June 4
Group 2 - May 23, May 30, June 5
Start: 5:00 p.m. Location: Houseman Field
Events: Standing Long Jump (grades 2-5), Shot Put (grades 4-5), Softball Throw
(grades 2-3), 100m (grades 2-5), 800m (grades 2-5), 4 x 100m relay (grades 2-5
coed), 200m (grades 2-5)
Girls Basketball: Tuesdays
, Wednesdays, and Thurs
days
from June 18 - August 1,
3-5 p.m., grades 6 – 12
Volleyball: June 10 - Au
gust 1, 6-8 p.m., Ottawa
Hills main gym
Wrestling: Thursdays fro
m July 11 - August 1, 4
- 5 p.m.,
Ottawa Hills wrestling roo
m
AAU summer track and
field:
M
ay 6 - August 3, cost var
ies (contact Coach Tony
Shellman at 517-414-62
28)
May 6 - May 31, grades
1-6 attend practice Mond
ay,
Wednesday, and Friday
from 6:30-8:00 p.m.;
June 3 - July 26, attend
practice Monday-Friday
from
6:30-8:00 p.m.
M
ay 20 - May 31, grades
7 and 8 attend practice
Monday, Wednesday, an
d Friday from 6:30-8:00
p.m.;
June 3 - July 26 attend pra
ctice Monday-Friday fro
m
6:30-8:00 p.m.
June 3 - July 26, grades
9-12 (ages 15-18) attend
practice Monday-Friday from
6:30-8:00 p.m.
For questions concernin
g summer workouts con
tact the
Ottawa Hills Athletics Of
fice at 819-2879.
Elementary sports
Elementary programs added an additional fall sport, soccer, in the 2012-13 school
year and is looking to increase the participation even more in the coming 2013-14
school year. Additionally, elementary cross-country saw an incredible increase in
participation to over 600 student athletes. The elementary program now offers four
sports: Cross Country, Soccer, Basketball, and Track.
For schedules, highlights, and parent resources check out our website at
www.grps.org/athletics
Summer Camps
Soccer – July 17-20 – Ottawa Hills Soccer Camp
for grades 7 – 12 at Ottawa Hills Soccer Field – Camp
is free for all OHHS and family of school students.
Volleyball – July 22-24 – Volleyball
Summer Camp for grades 3 – 12 at Union
High - Register now and save the date!
Sportsmanship Corner
As a spectator of interscholastic athletics, please consider the time and effort that
each of these young participants have put forth to represent his/her school. The purpose of all athletic activities is to provide positive learning experiences and opportunities for personal growth for the participants, coaches, officials, and spectators. Everyone who attends can – and is expected to – assist in the promotion and achievement
of good sportsmanship ideals by taking personal responsibility for keeping this contest
at a high level of fair, clean, and wholesome competition. Remember….
sportsmanship counts!
Grand Rapids Public Schools 20th Annual Thanksgiving Day
Contact your athletic office for more
information.
had more than 2,000 runners for the 2012 5K run/walk. Mark your calendar and join us on
Thanksgiving Day 2013 and help us reach our goal of over 3,000 participants.
athletics
May 2013
Athletics 2012/13 School Year Highlights
High Schools
• Ottawa Hills Boys’ Swim score points
at the Division 3 State Meet
• Ottawa Hills Bowlers qualify for state
meet
• Union Bowlers qualify for state meet
• Union Varsity Volleyball team receive
2012 Academic All Team award from
the Michigan Interscholastic Volleyball Coaches Association (MIVCA)
• GRPS Hockey Coach Brian Bellgraph
recognized by MiHockey as one of the
50 most influential people in Michigan hockey
• Ottawa Hills Girls’ Basketball Coach
Shatoya Likely inducted into the
St. Louis University’s Billiken Sports
Hall of Fame
• Student athlete Quinton Pulley signs
to play football with Northwood
University
• Student athlete Sharnell James named
Burger King Athlete of the Week for
track
All State Honorable Mention
Rashaud Orange – Creston Basketball
All Conference
Amilcar Santizo – Union Soccer
Andrew Lowe – Ottawa Hills Swim
Andreya Allen – Union Competitive
Cheer
Aron Stewart – Ottawa Hills Basketball
Cortez Sims – Creston Cross Country
Darrick Wilson – Union Basketball
Eddie Garcia – Creston Soccer
Emily Grochowalski – Union Bowling
Gerrit Beltman – Ottawa Hills Swim
Isaac LaGrand – Ottawa Hills Swim
Jalen Vasser – Union Football
Joel King – Union Bowling
JoVone Coheen-Reed – Creston
Football
Lorenzo Wesche – Union Swimming
LZ Granderson – Creston Cross
Country
Mack Smith Jr. – Ottawa Hills Bowling
Manuel Gorh – Union Soccer
Mark Santoyo – Ottawa Hills Soccer
Michael Pall – Ottawa Hills Swim
Morgan Hitchings – Union Swimming
Nick Maternwoski – Creston Tennis
Paul Brown – Union Football
Quinten Lawton – Ottawa Hills Tennis
Quinton Pulley – Ottawa Hills Football
Rashaud Orange – Creston Basketball
Reid Hansen – Union Tennis
Robert Pall – Ottawa Hills Swim
Rowan Corcoran – Creston Tennis
Sam Beal – Ottawa Hills Football
Sam Freeman – Creston Soccer
Samantha Jo Lesatz – Union Swimming
Tyler Partenon – Union Swimming
Tyra Williams – Creston Basketball
Get your Sports Physical for
the 2013-14 School Year
All middle school and high
school students must have
a current sports physical to
participate in athletics. Your
physical must be taken and
dated after April, 15th 2013
for the 2013-14 school
year. Please turn completed
physicals in to your school’s
athletic office.
All Conference Honorable Mention
Andreya Allen – Union Volleyball
Boris Vail – Creston Soccer
Chris Santana – Union Soccer
Curtis Davison – Creston Basketball
Deon Patin – Creston Cross Country
Devon Baker – Union Football
Dewayne Gordon – Ottawa Hills
Basketball
Jeremiah Dubbink – GRPS Hockey
Mallory Robinson – Creston Volleyball
Maxwell Bultman – GRPS Hockey
Rose Popma – Union Golf
Shawnae Joseph – Ottawa Hills
Basketball
Taylor Okke – Union Competitive
Cheer
Trey Murphy – Creston Soccer
Academic All State
Maxwell Bultman – GRPS Hockey
Thomas John DeBoer, III – GRPS
Hockey
Middle School Winners
Volleyball Tournament – Westwood
Boys Soccer – Harrison Park
Boys Basketball Theme – UPrep/
Montessori
Boys Basketball Base – Gerald R. Ford
Boys Basketball Conference – Gerald
R. Ford
Swimming – Team North (City &
Riverside)
Competitive Cheere – City
Bowling – City
Girls Basketball Theme – C.A. Frost
Girls Basketball Basee – Gerald R. Ford
Girls Basketball Conference –
C.A. Frost
Wrestling – Alger/Gerald R. Ford
15
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16
summer tips
May 2013
Preventing Summer Learning Loss
As the school year draws to a close, it is
important to understand and prevent “Summer
Learning Loss”. Summer Learning Loss means
that students lose a significant amount of the
skills and knowledge they gained during the
school year. Recent studies show that about 2
months worth of math and reading skills are
lost over the summer. Research also shows that
teachers will spend about 4-6 weeks re-teaching
material that a student should already know.
Here are some tips to prevent
Summer Learning Loss:
Encourage reading. Read with your child
and encourage them to read independently. Take
them to the library, and allow them to pick out
books that they are interested in and join a summer reading program. Ask them questions about
what they are reading to sharpen their critical
thinking skills.
Get outdoors. Limit the amount of time
spent on television, computer, and video games.
Encourage physical/outdoor activity and imaginative play.
Summer Programs. Sign them up for
a summer program. GRPS has free summer school programs for students of all ages.
Programs are available for both students who
need extra help in core subjects and students
who want to have fun and learn new things
while they are out of school. Ask your student’s
teacher or counselor for more information.
Journaling. Have your child keep a daily
journal or write stories about their summer to
keep their writing skills sharp.
Use math. Identify ways to use everyday
math skills with your student. Examples include:
estimating costs, using fractions and measurements while cooking, or adding up prices at the
grocery store.
Be creative. Ask your child to draw, paint,
color, or do other types of artwork to boost
creative thinking skills.
For more tips or information, contact your
child’s school counselor.
Creating greater value for:
Community Benefit
Community Engagement
Education
Employee Engagement
Healthier Communities
Innovation
Regional Relationships
Research
Sustainability
300+
At Spectrum Health, we know the value
of building strong minds. It’s the reason
we devote significant resources to local
Area students enrolled in the
School of Health Sciences
More educational opportunities.
More dreams coming true.
education. An example is our partnership
with Grand Rapids Public Schools to develop
the School of Health Sciences. This program
has resulted in more than 300 students
getting on the path to a career in health
care. And their future has never been
brighter. To see the full value of a health
system creating greater possibilities,
visit spectrumhealth.org/csr.
Transforming City
Government B1
May 2013
Section 2
News Briefs
Picnic Shelter Reservations
The City of Grand Rapids has
both outdoor picnic shelters and
indoor pavilions/facilities available for
rent. These facilities are great for large
family events. Please call 456-3232,
option 4 for additional information
and reservations.
Youth T-ball/Coach Pitch
The summer youth t-ball/coach
pitch program will begin the week of
June 24 (weather permitting). Even
though the registration deadline has
passed, openings in some age groups
may still exist. T-ball age groups
are: ages 4 to young 5 and ages 5 to
6. Coach pitch age group is: 7 to 9.
All teams are coed. For registration
information call 456-3232 option 4.
Youth Fall Soccer
(Ages 4-16)
The fall youth soccer program
will begin the week of September
2 (weather permitting). Early bird
registration deadline is June 28. For
registration information call 4563232 option 4.
Fall Edition of WeAreGR
The fall edition of WeAreGR will
be coming out in July. Look for information about youth programs!
Memorial Day Reminder
Refuse, recycle, and yard waste
pick up will be delayed one day following Memorial Day (May 27).
Independence Day Reminder
Refuse, recycle, and yard waste
pick up will be delayed one day following Independence Day (July 4).
Follow us:
Parks & Recreation
Spring Schedule
B4-11
GR Public
Library Classes
B12-15
Stay informed – visit us online at www.WeAreGR.com |
Section 2 is a Special paid advertising
supplement to We Are GR
Sustainable Asset Management:
An Integral Part of the City’s Transformation
by Gregory A. Sundstrom
City Manager, City of Grand Rapids
customer self-service portal to access
City Hall 24-hours a day, seven days a
week.
The City is taking aggressive steps
to address its structural deficit. We
are driven to lower costs, improve our
customer service, and improve the
quality of life in our city. Following the
2010 voter approved temporary fiveyear income tax increase, the City has
lowered employee total compensation
by over 12% largely through retirement
and health care benefit reductions. The
City has lowered the cost for providing
services by using technology and
developing new service models. The
City is transforming our operations
to increase efficiency using employee
teams and Lean principles. The City
is focused on customer service. We
are preparing to launch a significant
and important customer service and
efficiency improvement. We are on
target to offer 3-1-1, a telephone service
with highly trained customer service
representatives equipped with stateof-the-art technology and an online
The City of Grand Rapids is on
track to transform core City operations
by June 30, 2015, the date when the
temporary income tax increase will
expire. On this date we confidently
anticipate a financially sustainable City
operation, which means that revenues
will exceed expenses. The City has
worked steadily on the 76 value streams
in the plan and
has made strong
progress. In 2010,
the City faced a $33
million operating
deficit, but in 2014,
four years into our
five-year plan, the
City is projecting
that revenues will
exceed expenses.
We are meeting
our financial goals.
We are transforming how we deliver
services. We are improving customer
service. Although we are on schedule
and we need to maintain our focus as
there is much work remaining, it is time
to look ahead.
During the City Commission’s
Budget Retreat in February, staff
provided an update of the work
currently underway to implement the
five-year Transformation Investment
Plan. This chart was shared with
Commissioners and reflects the
intensity of the work within the
❙❚■ SUSTAINABLE ASSET B3
Sustainable Streets Taskforce:
A Community Approach to Fixing Our Streets
by eric delong
Deputy City Manager
The continued deterioration of
Grand Rapids’ street infrastructure is a
serious issue for residents, businesses,
emergency services and visitors. Streets
are one of the City’s most valuable assets. The City Commission formed the
Sustainable Streets Task Force early last
year to examine street conditions and
develop a comprehensive street con-
struction and asset management recommendation. This all-volunteer, unpaid,
citizen Task Force is made up of a diverse group of representatives from business; neighborhoods; engineers; County
and State government; and advocates for
such things as transit, bicycles, persons
with disabilities and more.
The Task Force reviewed the work
of a previous infrastructure task force;
over ten years ago citizens provided
recommendations to the City Com-
mission on street investment. Those
recommendations were predicated on
the State or others taking certain actions
before additional local solutions were
initiated. Those actions never took place
and we are living with the results today.
The Sustainable Streets Task Force
determined they did not want to repeat
the mistakes of the past by waiting for
someone else to come to our rescue.
They determined early on that local action will be needed.
❙❚■ SUSTAINABLE STREETS B2
Special paid advertising supplement to WeAreGR
2
city news
May 2013
Sustainable Streets
The City has achieved, and continues to achieve, operational efficiencies to meet outcomes. The City has
reduced total compensation for City
staff by 12.5% (both wages and benefits); reduced streets staffing by 10%;
reduced the truck fleet by 10%; adjusted
methods for such things as salt spreading, guard rail replacement and surface
treatments; and continues to leverage as
much street work as possible through
water and sewer projects, but this will
decrease as the Combined Sewer Overflow work concludes. The Task Force
found that the City has done a good
job of reducing costs and increasing
efficiencies, but can’t provide a robust
enough street program through efficiencies alone.
As they did their research, the Task
Force learned that, of a total 588 miles
of streets, an alarming 371 miles (or
63%) of our street system are in poor
condition. Only 50 miles are considered
to be in Good condition and only 167
miles in Fair condition.
The Task Force wanted to take a very
holistic view of the street system focused
on people, accessibility, balanced modes
of transportation, neighborhoods, business districts, and asset management.
They concluded that sidewalks provided
an opportunity to enhance mobility
and accessibility along with streets; and
if there is a way to include sidewalks,
they want to do it. Including sidewalks
in the plan would eliminate the City’s
Point of Sale (POS) Sidewalk Program,
and the City Charter requirement that
makes property owners responsible
for sidewalk repairs and replacement.
Property owners would still be required
to keep their sidewalks clear of snow
and debris; but in a comprehensive
asset management program, the cost of
capital replacement would be paid for by
the City, and there would be additional
opportunity to leverage grant funds and
complete the sidewalk network and connections.
The Task Force encourages investment now versus later. The question is,
how best to meet the necessary level of
investment. The benefits of investment
include—jobs in the private sector; reduced auto repair costs; increased safety;
an accessible sidewalk system with no
repair/replacement responsibility for
property owners; and vital neighborhoods and business districts.
The Task Force has learned that time
really does equal money. The longer we
wait, the worse street conditions become
and the more costly each repair. $1
spent now could save as much as $58
later depending on the rate of deterioration.
The Sustainable Streets Task Force
is focused on trying to find the best
value - achieving good outcomes at a
price that is still affordable. They feel
that bringing our streets back to where
70% are considered either in Good or
Fair condition—or in a “state of good
repair”- meets that outcome, particularly if the work and investment were
spread over a number of years to make
it more affordable. It was determined
that a total investment of approximately
$22 million per year for 15 years would
bring our streets and sidewalks back to
an acceptable level.
residents. An added bonus to Income
Tax is timing and maintenance of effort.
The City is making significant progress
in its transformation and is expected to
achieve a point where ongoing revenues
equal ongoing expenditures on schedule by June 30, 2015 when the current
5-year temporary income tax ends.
Voters could determine to maintain the
income tax rate at its current level and
vote to dedicate this portion to Vital
Streets at no increased cost to current
deductions. It is estimated this would
provide at least $9 million per year
for Vital Streets. By maintaining our
income tax rate we can maintain our
Vital Streets.
Future alternatives will also being pursued as technology and public
acceptance makes them more feasible.
For now, the Task Force found that the
income tax may be the best option in
order for Grand Rapids to maintain the
type of infrastructure needed to repair
our streets and remain a vibrant city.
The Task Force is asking for your
help. They will be out talking to various
groups and organizations throughout
the community this spring looking for
your feedback. Your thoughts and ideas
will be welcomed. Please visit the City’s
Engineering Department’s Website to
learn more about the work of the Task
Force. We also encourage you to like us
on Facebook to stay connected.
Grand Rapids
CITY LEADERS
Mayor
George K. Heartwell
First Ward Commissioners
Dave Shaffer
Walt Gutowski
Second Ward Commissioners
Rosalynn Bliss
Ruth E. Kelly
Third Ward Commissioners
James B. White, Sr.
Elias Lumpkins, Jr.
Sara VanderWerff, Comptroller
Gregory A. Sundstrom,
City Manager
Catherine Mish, City Attorney
Lauri S. Parks, City Clerk
Al Mooney, City Treasurer
That’s still a lot of money. The City
currently can only invest about $3.4
million per year for this purpose, plus
another $3 million in annual matching
grants. It is clear that new sources of investment are needed. An additional $6
million per year could come to Grand
Rapids if the State of Michigan acts to
invest $1.2 billion statewide as proposed
by Governor Snyder. This would help
to fill the gap and bring us to about $12
million annually. That leaves a gap of
between $9 and $10 million that would
need to be filled with local investment.
The Task Force has identified
Income Tax or Property Tax as potential near-term sources of funding. The
Sustainable Streets Task Force prefers
Income Tax over the Property Tax
because it is seen as more of a user fee
that is paid by both residents and nonSpecial paid advertising supplement to WeAreGR
city news
May 2013
3
Sustainable Asset
organization. Staff reported
that we anticipate fulfilling the
City’s commitment to voters and
completing the transformation of the
City’s core services by June 30th. Staff
also engaged the Commission in a
conversation about sustainable asset
management.
While feeling confident about
transforming core City operations, it
remains clear to all that the City has
much work to properly manage the
public assets such as City streets, street
lighting, sidewalks, stormwater, parks,
pools, trees, and municipal buildings.
These public assets were not addressed
in the City’s five-year Transformation
Investment Plan. During the last
City Commission retreat, the City
Commission discussed the need
to develop a plan to sustainably
manage the City’s public assets.
The conversation shed light on the
fact that the quality of life of our
community is closely connected to the
sustainability of these assets.
Building on the City’s success of
developing our five-year turnaround
plan, the City Commission directed
staff to develop a second phase of our
Transformation Investment Plan to
address sustainable asset management
no later than December, 31, 2013.
Developing a plan will provide the
community, City Commission, and
staff the opportunity to engage in
meaningful conversations of how best
to address these assets.
This is an exciting and challenging
time for our organization as we
continue to successfully implement
Phase I of the Transformation
Investment Plan and engage in the
development and implementation
of a Phase II to address our failing
assets. Thank you for tracking with
us and for your commitment and
dedication to our community. I am
confident that as we all work together
we will transform our city and ensure
a better community for generations
to come.
Many improvements have been made to the course that will make golfing
a very enjoyable experience for players of all levels. Please give us a try!
WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING AMENITIES:
• 18-holes on 93 gentle, rolling acres • chipping and putting area • affordable rates • carts • memberships • pro-shop •
concessions including beer, wine, and a vareity of food items • large deck overlooking the course • a fun & casual atmosphere
2776 Kalamazoo Ave SE (corner of 28th & Kalamazoo)
Ph: 245-2021
www.indiantrailsgc.com
4
adult fitness
May 2013
Adult Fitness General Information
Adult fitness classes are scheduled to begin the week of June 16, 2013 and run for ten weeks. Most classes are
45 or 55 minutes in length unless otherwise noted. Most equipment is provided. We recommend that you bring
a floor mat and water bottle to each class. Due to weather and/or school programs, classes may be cancelled. All
cancellations will be announced on the recreation program update/cancellation line at 616-456-3699 by 4:30pm.
Participants are not permitted to bring children or anyone else not registered to the class. All participants are
encouraged to consult with their physician prior to beginning an exercise program.
ADULT FITNESS FEES
TWO WAYS TO SAVE!
Register for multiple classes and receive a
reduced rate! Participants who register between
May 20-June 7 get an early bird discount!
Discounted rate applies to classes on page 4 and
the first two columns of page 5.
*Register between May 20-June 7, 2013
1 class per week
2 classes per week
3 classes per week
4 classes per week
ResidentNonresident
$40
$50
$60
$70
$80
$90
$100
$110
Register on June 8, 2013 or after
1 class per week
2 classes per week
3 classes per week
4 classes per week
ResidentNonresident
$50
$60
$80
$90
$110
$120
$140
$150
HOW TO REGISTER
ONLINE, PHONE, IN PERSON, OR FAX!
Register online at www.recreationgr.us
Register by calling 456-3232 and press
option 4 to reach the recreation staff. Please
have class information and credit/debit card
information ready when you call.
Register in person at 201 Market Ave SW.
Register by faxing the form from page 11 to
456-4561.
PILATES & YOGA CLASSES
YOGA
Increase flexibility, improve muscle tone and overall
strength. Yoga helps participants to relax and to work at
their own capabilities. Floor mat required.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
230003ATu 5:30-6:25 p.m.N. Park PresbyterianTerri R.
230003BTh 6:00-6:55 p.m. 201 Market Ave SW Jean H.
230003C Sa 8:00-8:55 a.m. Garfield Park Gym Kim
OUTDOOR YOGA
Increase flexibility, improve muscle tone and overall
strength. Yoga helps participants to relax and to work at
their own capabilities. Floor mat required.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
231001AM
5:30-6:25 p.m.Riverside Park
Kim
CARDIO CLASSES
CARDIO KICKBOXING
Mix up your routine with balance, coordination and
strength building moves. You will strengthen your legs,
upper body and abs burning mega calories. This class is
a great full-body workout. Floor mat required.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
231002AM
5:15-6:00 p.m. Garfield Park Gym Sadie R. KICK & TONE
This exciting class combines a cardio workout with a
toning workout. The toning will sculpt those muscles
using hand-held weights, exercise bands, and exertubes.
A workout for the entire body in one class. Floor mat
and 3-5lb hand weights required.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
231003ATh 5:30-6:25 p.m. Garfield Park Gym Ziyah D.
PILATES
Pilates tones muscles, improves posture, increases
flexibility and balance, unites body and mind, and
creates a streamlined shape. Focus on moving as an
integrated unit with control, grace, and fluidity. Pilates
improves circulation, reduces stress, and improves
endurance. Floor mat required.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
230004ATu 6:30-7:25 p.m.N. Park PresbyterianTerri R.
OUTDOOR TAI CHI
This class is an introduction to the Yang style of the
centuries-old Chinese exercise that originated as a
martial art and is now practiced worldwide by millions
for its many health benefits. Clinical studies have
shown that it lowers blood pressure, improves balance,
respiration, and circulation, as well as reducing stress.
Loose, comfortable clothing, especially shoes, are all
that is required.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
230001ATu 7:00-7:55 p.m.Mulick Park
Sorin C.
30/20/10
You will work every muscle group in the body with
three different workouts. The first 30 minutes will burn
mega calories with cardio movement, 20 minutes of
toning will sculpt those muscles (to burn more calories)
using hand-held weights, exercise bands and exertubes,
ending the class with 10 minutes of Yoga to strengthen,
stretch and relax your body. All skill levels welcome.
Bring a floor mat and 3-5 lb. hand weights.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
230005AM
6:15-7:15 p.m. Garfield Park Gym Jean H.
ADULT ACTIVITY LOCATIONS
201 Market Ave SW
Garfield Park Gym, 2111 Madison Ave SE
GRCC Ford Pool, 143 Bostwick Ave NE
North Park Presbyterian Church, 500 North
Park St NE
adult fitness
May 2013
DANCE WORKOUT CLASSES
ZUMBA
WERQ
WERQ is the fiercely fun new dance fitness workout based
on current billboard, pop, rock, and hip-hop songs and
easy, high-energy dance routines. You do not have to be
a dancer to participate, but you might feel like one while
you are blasting away calories. Are you ready to WERQ?
A fusion of Latin and International music. This class
combines high-energy and motivating music with
unique moves and combinations. Great for all skill levels.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
230007A W
5:30-6:25 p.m. Garfield Park Gym Kate R.
230007B Sa 9:00-9:55 a.m. Garfield Park GymTaylor L.
OUTDOOR ZUMBA*
July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 9 & 16
DayTime
Location Instructor
F
5:30-6:15 p.m.Rosa Parks Circle Kate R.
*WERQ is free and no registration required!
A fusion of Latin and International music. This class
combines high-energy and motivating music with
unique moves and combinations. Great for all skill levels.
June 10, 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5 & 12
OUTDOOR BALLROOM DANCING
DayTime
Location Instructor
M
5:30-6:25 p.m.Rosa Parks Circle Kate R.
Join the growing West Michigan ballroom dance
community. Learn the most popular dances including
Salsa, Waltz, Foxtrot, East Coast Swing, Cha Cha,
Rumba, Tango, and West Coast Swing.
*Outdoor Zumba is free and no registration required!
July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 9 & 16
TONING CLASSES
DayTime
Location Instructor
F
8:30-10:00 p.m.Rosa Parks Circle John & Sally
*Ballroom Dancing is free and no registration required!
LINE DANCING
Come out for some exercise and fun while learning line
dance steps set to motivating country music. This lowmoderate impact class provides a good workout for all
ages. No partner required.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
230012AM
7:15-8:10 p.m. Garfield Park Gym Kim
PILATES & TONING
Tone muscle groups in the body by using handheld weights, exercise bands and exertubes for great
definition. Then, stretch and strengthen the body by
focusing on controlled movement for the abdominal
and back section. Floor mat and 3-5lb hand weights are
required.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
231004ATu 5:15-6:10 p.m. 201 Market Ave SWTBD
HOW TO REGISTER
OUTDOOR BELLY DANCING
A fun and gentle introduction to Middle Eastern dance
teaches basic bellydance steps and short combinations.
Improve fitness and flexibility while learning exotic
moves.
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
230008AM
6:00-6:55 p.m.Riverside Park
Christine M.
Register by calling 456-3232 and press
option 4 to reach the recreation staff. Please
have class information and credit/debit card
information ready when you call.
Register by faxing the form from page 11 to
456-4561.
5
WATER EXERCISE CLASSES
DEEP WATER AEROBICS
The deep water aerobics program is a cardiovascular
and fitness conditioning class developed through deepwater exercises. The class helps participants achieve core
strength and conditioning, cardiovascular endurance,
and all-over toning. Deep water aerobics gives you the
benefits of weights, aerobics, and stretching in a nonimpact workout that focuses on calorie burning and
improving all aspects of physical fitness. Float belts are
available for participant use.
May 28-July 2
Reg.#DayTime
200003ATu
7:00-7:55 p.m.
Location Instructor
GRCC Ford Pool
Kathleen H.
July 1-August 10
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
200003BM
5:30-6:25 p.m.Richmond PoolTBD
200003C Sa 10:15-11:10 a.m.Richmond PoolTBD
Fee:$25 Resident; $35 Nonresident
SHALLOW WATER EXERCISE
This class is a cardiovascular and fitness conditioning
class held in shallow water.
July 3-August 7
Reg.#DayTime
200003D W
6:30-7:25 p.m.
Location Instructor
Briggs PoolTBD
AQUA ZUMBA
A safe, challenging, water-based workout that uses
cardiovascular endurance and toning to create an
exhilarating exercise class held in the water. This class
combines the Zumba formula and philosophy with
conventional water exercise.
July 11-August 15
Reg.#DayTime
Location Instructor
200003ETh 5:30-6:25 p.m.ML King PoolTBD
PAY AS YOU THROW
is our new refuse system for all residents.
Pay only when you bring your cart to the curb!
SIGN UP NOW!
GO ONLINE OR CALL:
WWW.REFUSE.GRCITY.US
616-456-3232
(press option 1 to manage your account!)
REFUSE COLLECTION FEES:
32 gallon cart - $2 per tip
Carts are delivered to your residence
approximately 3 weeks after registration.
swim lessons
6
May 2013
Swim Lessons
Register between May 20-June 14, 2013 for Sessions I, II, III, IV, VII & VIII
Register between May 20-July 5, 2013 for Sessions V, VI, IX, X & XI
ResidentNonresident
$40$50
Parent – Child
Participant MUST be 6 months to 3 years old. Parent
MUST be in the water with the child. The purpose is
to familiarize young children to the water and prepare
them to learn to swim in the Preschool Courses. Not
designed to teach children to become good swimmers
or to survive in the water on their own.
Preschool 1 & 2
Participant MUST be 3 years old to 5 years old. Parent
does not participate with child. The purpose is to familiarize young children to the water and prepare them to
learn to swim in Youth Swim Courses. Not designed to
teach children to become good swimmers or to survive
in the water on their own. Orients children to the
aquatic environment and helps them gain basic aquatic
skills. Preschool 2 is designed for students that have
become comfortable in the water and are able to swim
with a floatation device with out assistance.
Register on June 15, 2013 or after for Sessions I, II, III, IV, VII & VIII
Register on July 6, 2013 or after for Sessions V, VI, IX, X & XI
ResidentNonresident
$50$60
Level 1
Participant MUST be 6 years and older. The purpose is
to begin developing positive attitudes, good swimming
habits, and safe practices in and around the water.
Level 2
Participant MUST be 6 years and older. Participant
must have passed level 1 or can demonstrate the skills
required for level 1. The purpose is to give participants
success with fundamental skills, including learning how
to float without support and to recover to a vertical
position.
Level 6
required for level 5. The purpose is to refine strokes
so participants swim them with more ease, efficiency,
power, and smoothness, and over greater distances.
11:15-12:00pmML King
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 2
11:15 -12:00pmRichmond, ML King
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 3
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 4
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 5
11:15 -12:00pmRichmond
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 6
11:15 -12:00pmRichmond
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
SESSION I: MONDAYS
SESSION IV: MONDAY through WEDNESDAY
July 8-July 17
ClassTime
Location
Parent/Child5:30-6:00pmRichmond
Preschool 1
5:30-6:00pmRichmond
Preschool 2
5:30-6:00pmRichmond
Level 1
5:30-6:15pmRichmond
Level 2
5:30-6:15pmRichmond
Level 3
5:30-6:15pmRichmond
Level 4
5:30-6:15pmRichmond
ClassTime
Location
Parent/Child10:25-10:55amRichmond
11:15-11:45amML King
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Preschool 1
10:25-10:55amRichmond
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Preschool 2
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Level 1
11:15am-12:00pmML King
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 2
11:15am-12:00pmRichmond, ML King
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 3
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 4
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 5
11:15am-12:00pmRichmond
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 6
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
SESSION II: TUESDAYS
ClassTime
Location
Parent/Child
5:30-6:00pmML King
Preschool 5:30-6:00pmML King
Level 1
5:30-6:15pmML King
Level 2
5:30-6:15pmML King
Level 3
5:30-6:15pmML King
Level 4
5:30-6:15pmML King
SESSION III: SATURDAYS
July 6-August 10
ClassTime
Location
Parent/Child 10:25-10:55amRichmond
11:15-11:45amML King, Briggs
Preschool 1
Preschool 2
Level 1
10:25–11:10amRichmond
11:15-12:00pmML King, Briggs
Level 2
11:15-12:00pmRichmond, ML King, Briggs
Level 3
Level 4
Level 5
11:15-12:00pmRichmond, Briggs
Level 6
11:15-12:00pmRichmond, Briggs
Level 5
required for level 4. The purpose is to further learn
how to coordinate and refine strokes.
Level 3
required for level 2. The purpose is to build on the
skills in Level 2 by providing additional guided practice
in deeper water.
July 1-August 5
July 2-August 6
Level 4
required for level 3. The purpose is to develop participants’ confidence in the strokes learned in Level 3 and
to improve other aquatic skills.
SESSION V: MONDAY through WEDNESDAY
July 22-July 31
ClassTime
Location
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Preschool 1
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Preschool 2
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Level 1
SESSION VI: MONDAY through WEDNESDAY
August 5-August 14
ClassTime
Location
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Preschool 1
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Preschool 2
5:30-6:00pm
Briggs
Level 1
11:15am-12:00pmML King
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 2
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 3
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 4
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 5
11:15am -12:00pmRichmond
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
Level 6
5:30-6:15pm
Briggs
swim lessons/instruction
May 2013
ADULT/TEEN SWIM LESSONS
Class is tailored to the needs of the participants. Skills
can range from getting comfortable in the water to
learning to refine strokes.
Session I: July 8-July 17
Reg.#DayTime
Location
200005A M-W 10:25-11:10amRichmond
SESSION VII: MONDAY through FRIDAY
July 8-July 12
ClassTime
Parent/Child11:00-11:45am
Preschool 11:00-11:45am
Level 1
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 2
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 3
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 4
11:00am-12:00pm
Location
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Session II: July 22-July 31
Reg.#DayTime
200005BM-W 5:30-6:15pm
Location
Briggs
Session III: August 5-August 14
Reg.#DayTime
Location
200005CM-W 10:25-11:10amRichmond
July 15-July 19
ClassTime
Level 1
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 2
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 3
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 4
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 5
11:00am-12:00pm
Location
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
SESSION IX: MONDAY through FRIDAY
July 22-July 26
ClassTime
Level 1
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 2
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 3
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 4
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 5
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 6
11:00am-12:00pm
Location
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
SESSION X: MONDAY through FRIDAY
July 29-August 2
ClassTime
Level 1
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 2
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 3
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 4
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 5
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 6
11:00am-12:00pm
Location
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
SESSION XI: MONDAY through FRIDAY
August 5-August 9
ClassTime
Level 1
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 2
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 3
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 4
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 5
11:00am-12:00pm
Level 6
11:00am-12:00pm
Location
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
Briggs
JR. LIFEGUARD
This class will teach participants: the skills needed for
entry to the American Red Cross Lifeguarding class;
communication and decision-making skills; and the
basic responsibilities, knowledge, and skills of a lifeguard.
Participants must be between 11-14 years of age, or if not
yet age 11 have completed the 5th grade. Participants must
be able to: swim the front crawl for 25 yards continuously
whle breathing to the front or side; swim the breastroke
for 25 yards using a pull, breathe, kick and glide sequence,
tread water for one minute using arms and legs, show a
level of comfort on the back by floating on back for 30
seconds or swimming on back for 25 yards using the
backstroke or back crawl, submerge and swim a distance of
10 feet underwater.
July 6-August 10
Reg.#DayTime
Location
200001AM-F 11:00am–12:00pm Briggs
SESSION VIII: MONDAY through FRIDAY
7
TERRIFIED OF WATER
This program is geared towards teens and adults that
are afraid of the water and aims towards getting them
comfortable enough with the water to be able to
participate in normal teen and adult swim lessons. Works
at participant’s pace and at their own ability level.
INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED DIVING
Reg.#DayTime
Location
200002ASa 10:25–11:10amRichmond
Builds upon skills from beginner diving class and works
towards being able to perform the required dives for
High School competitive diving. Students that have
passed the intermediate level will build upon the basic
required high school dives. Participants must be able
to complete the skills covered in the beginner diving
lessons.
Session I: July 15-July 19
BEGINNER DIVING
Reg.#DayTime
200007AM-F 9:55–10:55am
Session I: July 6-August 10
Students learn the basics of diving. Must be able to
swim for 25 yards continuously, tread water for one
minute, submerge and swim 10 feet underwater.
Session I: July 6-August 10
Reg.#DayTime
Location
200006ASa 10:25–11:10amRichmond
Location
Briggs
Session II: July 6-August 10
Reg.#DayTime
Location
200007BSa 11:15am–12:00pmRichmond
Session II: July 8-12
Reg.#DayTime
Location
200006BM-F 11:00am–12:00pm Briggs
STROKE CLINIC
For the swimmer that is either competing or looking
to improve their strokes for lap swim/competition.
Equipment will be available for use. Participants must
be able to continuously swim for over 200 yards to be
able to participate.
Session I: August 5-14
Reg.#DayTime
200009AM-W 5:30-6:30pm
Location
Briggs
PRIVATE/SEMI-PRIVATE LESSONS
Participants can work on their own individual goals
either one-on-one or with another swimmer and one
instructor. Lessons are one-half hour.
Please call 456-3662 to schedule.
Fee for private lesson: $25 Resident; $35 Nonresident
Fee for semi-private lesson: $30 Resident; $40 Nonresident (price includes two (2) participants)
8
youth activites
May 2013
How to Register for Youth Activities
Youth ACTIVITY LOCATIONS
Register by calling 456-3232 and press option 4 to reach the recreation staff. Please have class information and
credit/debit card information ready when you call.
Register by faxing the form from page 11 to 456-4561.
Garfield Park Gym, 2111 Madison Ave SE
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
11 Sheldon Ave NE
Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation Office,
201 Market Ave SW
Youth Activities FEES (unless otherwise noted)
West Michigan Fencing Academy,
Save if you register by June 7, 2013
ResidentNonresident
Register by June 7, 2013
$39
$49
Register on or after June 8, 2013
$49
$59
MUSICAL MUNCHKINS (Ages 2-5)
Discover the fun of music through marching, skipping,
galloping, and dancing to children’s songs. Children
learn songs, develop coordination, and use rhythm
instruments. Children should wear comfortable
clothing that they can move around freely in. Parent/
Guardian participation mandatory.
June 17, 21, July 1, 8, 15
Reg.#DayTime
211108AM 9:30-10:00 a.m.
Location
201 Market Ave SW
PRINCESS BALLET (Ages 3-6)
Come stretch your imagination, as well as your toes, in the
storybook dance class based on dances from your favorite
fairy tales and ballet stories. This five-week session features
stories that will teach your child how to “tell a story with
their body.” Each session will focus on fairy tales that
have been turned into a ballet, as well as some that are
just children’s classics. Your child will explore elements of
creative movement, ballet and jazz in this delightful trip to
an enchanted kingdom. Crowns and wands included for
take home. Jazz or ballet shoes required.
June 21, 28, July 12, 18 and 26
Reg.#DayTime
200211A F
9:30-10:10 a.m.
Location
201 Market Ave SW
TOTS IN TUTUS (Ages 2-4)
Parks and Recreation continues our partnership with
the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum to offer this
class! Assist your tiny dancer in their first introduction
to ballet. Your child will begin to learn terminology
and basic dance movements. Children should wear
ballet shoes and comfortable clothes. Parent/Guardian
participation is mandatory.
HIP HOP DANCE WORKSHOP (Ages 12-16)
A high-energy class that uses the latest sounds in rap,
R&B, and pop together with movements influenced
by current video choreographers. Students will gain
an understanding/appreciation of the improvisational
nature of this dance form while learning basic
movements and terminology. Steps & techniques will
be broken down, emphasizing that style and personality
be brought to the movement. No previous dance
experience is necessary.
June 22
Reg.#DayTime
Location
228102A Sa 10:15 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Garfield Park Gym
Fee: $15 Resident; $25 Nonresident
BALLET WORKSHOP (Ages 8-12)
In this class, children will learn the foundation of all
dance forms including body placement, flexibility,
balance, alignment, strength, and technique. These
skills are achieved through barre and center floor
work. The class focuses on general body awareness and
control, techniques, combinations, and choreography,
as well as basic dance terminology. No experience
required. Ballet shoes required.
June 29
Reg.#DayTime
Location
211106A Sa 10:15 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Garfield Park Gym
1111 Godfrey SW
SOCCER CAMP (Ages 5-14)
Participants will learn ball work, dribbling, shooting,
passing and control. Skills will be taught using drills,
games, and competitions. Teamwork, sportsmanship
and safety will be emphasized.
June 24-27
Reg.#DayTime
Location
211111AM-Th 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.MacKay/Jaycee Park
SUMMER FENCING CAMPS (Ages 7-17)
These camps are designed for individuals with little
or no fencing experience. By participating in various
games, campers will not only have fun but will become
acquainted with fencing stance, movement, strategies
and rules. Come and learn this exciting Olympic sport!
All equipment is provided.
June 17-20
Reg.#DayTime
Location
211113AM-Th 1:00-2:30 p.m. West MI Fencing Academy
August 19-22
Reg.#DayTime
Location
211113BM-Th 10:00-11:30 a.m.West MI Fencing Academy
(Grades 1-6 only)
211113CM-Th 1:00-2:30 p.m. West MI Fencing Academy
(Grades 7-12 only)
June 18, 25, July 9, 16, and 23
Reg.#DayTime
228100ATu 9:30-10:00 a.m.
Location
*Children’s Museum
*Only children registered for this class may attend. If you need
to bring siblings or other children with you, there is a $3.00 per
person fee and you MUST be with your children at all times.
youth activities
May 2013
9
TENNIS IN THE PARKS
Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation is pleased to partner with the Michigan Athletic Club (MAC) to provide a unique format for
summer tennis lessons. Using the USTA’s new Quickstart format for players ages 4-12, this exciting program will allow children to
succeed quickly and have a lot of fun learning the lifetime sport of tennis. The USTA recently introduced the Quickstart tennis across
the country. Tennis had now modified its court sizes, balls, racquets and scoring to better fit the needs of young children.
How to register for Tennis In The Parks:
1. Select the Session (I, II, III, IV, V, VI, or VII)
2. Select the Park (Aberdeen, MacKay/Jaycee, Mulick or Wilcox)
3. Select the appropriate time based on your child’s age
Fee Per Session: $15 Resident; $25 Nonresident
PARK LOCATIONS & TIMES:
SESSIONS:
Session I: June 17-21
Aberdeen Park
Mulick Park
Session II: June 24-28
9:00 am - Ages 5-8
9:00 am - Ages 5-8
Session III: July 8-12
10:00 am - Ages 8-10
10:00 am - Ages 8-10
Session IV: July 15-19
11:00 am - Ages 10-12
11:00 am - Ages 10-12
Session VI: July 28-August 1
MacKay/Jaycee Park
Wilcox Park
Session VII: August 4-8
9:00 am - Ages 5-8
9:00 am - Ages 5-8
10:00 am - Ages 8-10
10:00 am - Ages 8-10
11:00 am - Ages 10-12
11:00 am - Ages 10-12
Session V: July 22-26
12:00 pm - Ages 13-17
The 7th annual David Harris All-Pro Football Camp will be held on Saturday, July 20.
IS
DAVID HARR
ALL-PRO
MP
A
C
L
L
A
B
T
O
FO
The camp will provide participants with an opportunity to get coaching from David Harris and area coaches.
Registration deadline is July 1.
July 20
Reg.# Day Time Location
211112A Sa 9:00am-1:00pm
Houseman Field
Fee: $Free/Resident, but pre-registration is required.
$10/Nonresident, pre-registration is required.
Grand Rapids Family Credit Union
NEW Youth Saving Program!
Smart Money Habits Start Early
Visit us online @
www.grfamilycu.org or
call us at (616)456-8848
Superstar Savers receive the following at account opening: Superstar Savers Account; Superstar
Savers Punch Card; Piggy Bank to jump start your savings; Fun prizes for each level of saving!
Teach your kids the value of saving! Opening an account is easy & rewarding…
10
youth & adult activities
May 2013
HAPPY
BIRTHDAY!
If you are looking to have a party during open swim hours at Richmond, Martin Luther King, Jr. or Briggs pools,
then this is for you! For $75.00 you get:
- t wo reserved tables in the pool pavilion for t wo hours
- admission for up to 12 guests (any age)
- plates, cups, napkins, forks and table coverings
- a birthday banner
- a small gift for the special birthday boy or girl
If you will have more than 12 guests, each additional person will be charged $1.00. Please call 456-3662 for
availability and more information.
Grand Rapids City
CEMETERIES
Pre-planning allows your wishes to be known, thus eliminating an incredible burden on your
loved ones during the stressful and painful time after your death We have quality grounds,
maintenance, and there is a wide selection of lots and burial options available in a variety of
price ranges. We serve all faiths.
Please contact us by phone or e-mail to set
up an appointment for assistance with lot
selection and pre-planning needs.
Let us be your provider of choice for
burial services!
Cemeteries are located at:
Fulton Street (801 E. Fulton NE)
Fairplains (2056 Diamond NE)
Oakgrove (1401 28th St SE)
Oakhill (647 Hall St SE)
Greenwood (1401 Leonard NW)
Woodlawn (2530 Kalamazoo SE)
Ph: 616-456-3232 e-mail: [email protected]
registration form
May 2013
201 Market Avenue SW, Grand
Rapids, MI 49503
Office Hours:
Monday–Friday
7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
45
16phone 6
4
6-3232 option
fax:
616-456-4561
e-mail:
REGISTER ONLINE at www.recreationgr.us
BEGINNING MAY 20 at 7:30 a.m.!
Registration is on a first–come, first–served basis and will be processed beginning
Monday, May 20, 2013. Some adult fitness classes and youth activities have an early-bird registration deadline
of Friday, June 7, 2013, after which an additional $10 is charged per class. All participants must follow City
and Parks and Recreation policies which can be found at the Parks and Recreation Department or online at
www.grcity.us
■ M
AIL or FAX - Print all information on the below registration form. Mail registration form with check, money order or credit card
information to Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation, 201 Market Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Fax registration form with credit card
information to (616) 456-4561.
■ P
HONE - Phone-in registrations are accepted Monday through Friday between 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. using MasterCard, VISA, or Discover
(please have your card ready when you call 456-3232 option 4).
■ I N PERSON - Our office is open 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday for registrations. Beginning May 20, 2013, bring the
registration form and check, cash, money order or credit card to our office (after registration hours, place in the drop box located by the
north door). Early bird registration deadline is June 7, 2013.
Registration
Info
First Name: Address: City/Zip: Day Phone: E-mail Address: (We use your email address to send your receipt and any other important information about the class or program you registered for. We do not share
e-mail addresses with outside agencies.)
Program Info
Participants Name
M/F
Birthdate
Program Name/Location
Registration #
RESIDENT AND
NON-RESIDENT FEES:
You are a resident if you reside within
the City of Grand Rapids’ boundaries.
Nonresidents are welcome to participate,
but are charged a slightly higher
registration fee.
REFUND POLICY:
A full refund is granted until the Early
Bird Registration Deadline listed
on the registration form. A $5.00
cancellation fee will be charged if the
refund is requested after the early-bird
registration deadline, but prior to the
first session of a class. If a refund is
granted to a participant who registered
online, the convenience fee will not be
refunded.
A pro-rated refund will be granted
when a program participant is unable to
complete a program due to illness, injury,
or relocation.
CANCELLATIONS:
(Please use full street name. If only PO Box or RR# is used, registration will be processed as a nonresident.)
Home Phone: [email protected]
A full refund is granted when Parks
and Recreation cancels a class due to
low enrollment (however, the online
convenience fee is non-refundable).
Household/Primary Adult Contact Name: Participant’s Last Name: 11
Day
Time
Fee
If a class or program is cancelled due to
weather conditions or other unforeseen
circumstances, an announcement will
be made on the Recreation Program
Update/Cancellation Line at (616) 4563699. Please call the (616) 456-3699
phone number if you have any question
as to whether classes will be held. This
hotline is updated on a regular basis so
feel free to call before you head out to
any class or program!
Scholarships Available:
TOTAL:
Reduced fees are available for those
who qualify. Applications may be
obtained by visiting our Web site at
www.grcity.us/parksandrec or by calling
(616) 456-3232, option 4. Scholarship
applications must be submitted
two weeks prior to the deadline for
processing.
Payment Info
Method of Payment:
Card Number: Signature:
❒ Cash ❒
Check
❒
MasterCard/VISA/Discover
Expiration Date:
*SIGN UP EARLY EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION
DEADLINE IS JUNE 7, 2013.
library classes
12
BOARD OF LIBRARY
COMMISSIONERS
James Botts
President
M. Jade VanderVelde
Vice President/Secretary
Anne Armstrong Cusack
William Baldridge
Ruth Lumpkins
Roger McClary
M. Jade VanderVelde
Caralee Witteveen-Lane
LIBRARY LEADERS
Marcia A. Warner
Director
Marla Ehlers
Assistant Director
May 2013
Getting Ready for Retirement?
Learn More at the Library!
The Grand Rapids Public Library is offering a series of classes and workshops to help you prepare
for retirement. Get your questions answered! All events are free and open to the public.
Medicare 101
Tuesday, May 7 at 6:30 pm | Main Library | 111 Library Street NE
A, B, C, D. What are all those parts? What is the right Medicare coverage for you? Working through the Medicare maze often
seems complicated. What do you get with each of the Medicare parts and how do you choose? Join Karen Rozelle, the Michigan
Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) Regional Coordinator, for a Medicare overview that addresses these topics. Come
and learn about the various assistance programs and how to fight against Medicare fraud. Register at www.grpl.org/register.
Ask-the-Lawyer: Social Security Disability
Tuesday, May 14 at 6:00 pm | Main Library | 111 Library Street NE
Do you have a legal question? Are you interested in finding out how the courts handle a particular topic? Here’s an opportunity to
connect with a legal expert for free. Each Ask-the-Lawyer session at the Grand Rapids Public Library will feature a member of the
Grand Rapids Bar Association along with an expert attorney in the featured topic. A 10-minute summary will be followed by
a 45-minute question and answer period. May’s topic: Social Security Disability. Refreshments served.
Community Resource & Senior Volunteer Fair
Friday, May 17 at 10:00 am | Main Library | 111 Library Street NE
Spring into volunteering! Are you interested in becoming an active volunteer? This open house will bring together 25 different
community organizations featuring information on available community resources and meaningful volunteer opportunities.
Registration is encouraged through GRCC Workforce Training at 616-234-3400 or at www.grcclearn.com.
Savvy Social Security Planning
Thursday, May 30 at 6:30 pm | Main Library | 111 Library Street NE
Deciding when to claim social security requires research and careful consideration. Each
situation is different, with many factors affecting the decision of when and how to begin collecting social security retirement
benefits. Are you single, married, divorced, remarried, or widowed? At what age should you start collecting your benefit? Does
it make sense to delay benefits? Join Patrick Newcombe as he provides valuable information on the complexities of making social
security retirement decisions. Register at www.grpl.org/register.
616.988.5400 WWW.GRPL.ORG
Memorial Day Closings
Closed on Summer Sundays
Closings on Saturday, May 25, 2013:
The Main Library is closed on Sundays in the summer beginning
on Sunday, May 26 (Memorial Day weekend).
• Madison Square Branch
• Ottawa Hills Branch
• Van Belkum Branch
• West Side Branch
Sunday hours at the Main Library (1:00 – 5:00 pm) will resume
on Sunday, September 8, 2013.
Closings on Sunday, May 26, 2013:
All library locations will be closed.
Closings on Monday, May 27, 2013:
All library locations will be closed.
library classes
May 2013
13
GR Reads: Summer Reading All Grown Up
June 1 – August 31, 2013 at All Library Locations
10 Books
Summer is here and it is time to take another journey down the road of great books. Our smart librarians have picked ten books
that will take you to unexpected places and have planned unique events that will have you exploring our exceptional community.
So pack your library bag full of books and grab a friend, we are setting off down the road together and getting there is half the fun.
The Grand Rapids Public Library has once again partnered with area organizations to present the fourth annual GR Reads,
a summer reading program designed for adults. Come discover the ten interesting books that our smart staff have selected, or join
your neighbors for fun, informative programs that are inspired by the books. For a complete list of books and events, visit
www.grpl.org/grreads or stop by any GRPL library.
Detroit City Is the
Place to Be
by Mark Binelli
The Dirty Life
by Kristin Kimball
High Fidelity
by Nick Hornby
Packing for Mars
by Mary Roach
The Rook
by Daniel O’Malley
Sutton
by J.R. Moehringer
Swimming to Antarctica
by Lynne Cox
Travels with Charley
by John Steinbeck
Where’d You Go, Bernadette
by Maria Semple
A Woman Like Me
by Bettye LaVette
Discover the History of Your House
Have you every wondered
about the past residents of
your house? Or who built it?
Or when a renovation took
place?
The Grand Rapids History and
Special Collections Department at the
Grand Rapids Public Library will be
teaching the class House History 101:
Learn how to research your house’s
past on Saturday, May 18 at 9:30 am.
Library staff will provide a tour of the
department emphasizing materials and
guides useful for researching Grand
Rapids buildings. After the tour, staff
will give brief presentations showcasing
a residential and a commercial building,
using materials from the collection.
Participants can then spend the rest of
the day conducting research on their
home with individual assistance from
library staff.
The library has over 350 archival
collections that document the people
and organizations of the Greater Grand
Rapids area using still photos and moving
images, oral histories, sound recordings,
and sheet music; manuscripts, postcards,
scrapbooks, and ephemera. One of the
most popular holdings is the real estate
listing cards which contain images and
listing information on many properties
in Grand Rapids from 1955 to 1995.
All the material in the Grand Rapids
History and Special Collections
Department is available to the public
for research purposes. Learn more at
www.grpl.org/localhistory.
To register for the House History
101 class, visit www.grpl.org/register.
The class is free and open to the
public.
14
library classes
LOCATIONS & HOURS
Main Library
111 Library Street NE 49503
616.988.5400
M-Th 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
F-Sat 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sun 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
(Sunday hours Labor Day
to Memorial Day)
May 2013
2013 Summer Reading Challenge
May 28 – August 31, 2013 at all library locations
Are you up to the challenge this summer? Are you ready to dig into some good books? Will you discover what lies beneath the
surface of that book cover? The Grand Rapids Public Library challenges all kids in the city under the age of 18
to read. The more levels you complete, the more prizes you win. Victory is yours for the taking. Will you rise to the challenge?
Competitors can register at www.grpl.org/summerreading starting May 15.
Kid’s Challenge Events
Teen Challenge Events
1201 Madison SE 49507
616.988.5411
Construction Truck Petting Zoo
Animals Under the Surface
T-W 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Th 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
F-Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Bugs, Beetles, & Bookworms
Madison Square Branch
Ottawa Hills Branch
1150 Giddings SE 49506
616.988.5412
T 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
W 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Th-Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Seymour Branch
2350 Eastern SE 49507
616.988.5413
M-T 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
W-Th 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Van Belkum Branch
1563 Plainfield NE 49505
616.988.5410
T 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
W 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Th-Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
West Leonard Branch
1017 Leonard NW 49504
616.988.5416
M-T 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
W-Th 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
West Side Branch
713 Bridge NW 49504
616.988.5414
T-W 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Th 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
F-Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Yankee Clipper Branch
2025 Leonard NE 49505
616.988.5415
M-T 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
W-Th 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, June 1 at 10:00 am
Sheldon and Library Streets
Tuesday, June 18 at 10:30 amMain Library
Tuesday, June 18 at 2:00 pm
West Leonard Branch
Wednesday, June 19 at 10:30 am
Seymour Branch
Wednesday, June 19 at 3:00 pmYankee Clipper Branch
Wednesday, June 19 at 6:30 pmMain Library
Dinosaur Encounters
Wednesday, June 26 at 10:30 am
West Side Branch
Wednesday, June 26 at 2:00 pmOttawa Hills Branch
Wednesday, June 26 at 6:30 pmMain Library
Thursday, June 27 at 10:30 am
Van Belkum Branch
Thursday, June 27 at 2:00 pmMadison Square Branch
RockGarden Party
Tuesday, July 9 at 10:30 amMain Library
Tuesday, July 9 at 2:00 pm
West Leonard Branch
Wednesday, July 10 at 10:30 am
Seymour Branch
Wednesday, July 10 at 3:00 pmYankee Clipper Branch
Wednesday, July 10 at 6:30 pmMain Library
Dr. Dirt: The Art of the Soil
West Side Branch
Wednesday, July 17 at 2:00 pm Ottawa Hills Branch
Wednesday, July 17 at 6:30 pm Main Library
Thursday, July 18 at 10:30 am Van Belkum Branch
Thursday, July 18 at 2:00 pm Madison Square Branch
Kevin Kammeraad: A Hole in the Ground
and Other Puppet Vignettes
Tuesday, July 23 at 10:30 amMain Library
Tuesday, July 23 at 2:00 pm
West Leonard Branch
Seymour Branch
Wednesday, July 24 at 3:00 pm Yankee Clipper Branch
Wednesday, July 24 at 6:30 pm Main Library
Pippin Puppets Present Journey to the
Center of the Earth
West Side Branch
Wednesday, July 31 at 2:00 pmOttawa Hills Branch
Wednesday, July 31 at 6:30 pmMain Library
Thursday, Aug 1 at 10:30 am
Van Belkum Branch
Thursday, Aug 1st at 2:00 pmMadison Square Branch
Tuesday, June 18 at 2:00 pm
West Side Branch
Saturday, June 22 at 3:00 pm Madison Square Branch
Tuesday, June 25 at 2:00 pm West Leonard Branch
Thursday, July 11 at 2:00 pm Van Belkum Branch
Thursday, July 11 at 4:00 pm Ottawa Hills Branch
Thursday, July 18 at 10:30 am Main Library
Tuesday, July 23 at 2:00 pm Seymour Branch
Saturday, July 27 at 2:00 pm Yankee Clipper Branch
Ocean Underworld
Monday, June 24 at 4:30 pmMain Library
Henna Runes
Saturday July 13 at 2:00 pmYankee Clipper Branch
Thursday, July 25 at 6:00 pmMadison Square Branch
Monday, July 29 at 3:00 pmMain Library
Steampunk Mousetrap Message Clips
Wednesday, July 24 at 2:00 pmOttawa Hills Branch
Monda,y July 29 at 4:00 pm
Seymour Branch
Thursday, July 11 at 4:00 pm
West Side Branch
Wednesday, July 31 at 2:00 pm
Van Belkum Branch
Thursday, July 18 at 4:00 pm
West Leonard Branch
Flash Mob Dance Party!
Flash Mob Dance Party rehearsals on the following dates:
Mondays: May 6, 13, 20 & June 3
5:30 – 6:15 pm Yankee Clipper Branch
Wednesdays: May 8, 15, 22, 29 & June 5
5:30 – 6:15 pm Main Library
Flash Mob Dance Party live event
Saturday, June 8, Location TBD
Teen Cemetery Tour
Wednesday, August 7 at 2:00 pmMeet at the Main Library
GRPL’s Got Talent
Thursday, August 15 at 6:00 pmMain Library
For kids and teens:
Finisher Party at the Zoo
Saturday, September 14, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
John Ball Zoo – 1300 W. Fulton St.
616.988.5400 WWW.GRPL.ORG
library classes
May 2013
15
ONLINE
ONLINE REGISTRATION
REGISTRATION STARTS
STARTS TUESDAY,
TUESDAY, MAY
MAY 28!
28!
CONSTRUCTION
CONSTRUCTION TRUCK
TRUCK
PETTING ZOO
ZOO
PETTING
Saturday, June 1 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Saturday, June 1 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Is your child in awe of construction trucks? Would he or she like to
Is your child in awe of construction trucks? Would he or she like to
see them up close and in-person? Come explore our petting zoo of
see them up close and in-person? Come explore our petting zoo of
real construction trucks on display in the streets in front of the Main
real construction trucks on display in the streets in front of the Main
Library and the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. A variety of trucks
Library and the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. A variety of trucks
will be on display from the Kent County Road Commission and the
will be on display from the Kent County Road Commission and the
cities of Grand Rapids, Walker, Kentwood, Wyoming, Grandville and
cities of Grand Rapids, Walker, Kentwood, Wyoming, Grandville and
East Grand Rapids! Come, explore and learn. Hands on activities for
East Grand Rapids! Come, explore and learn. Hands on activities for
the whole family! Free parking in the Main Library’s parking lot.
the whole family! Free parking in the Main Library’s parking lot.
THANK
THANK YOU
YOU TO
TO OUR
OUR SPONSORS:
SPONSORS:
FRIENDS
FRIENDS OF
OF THE
THE
LIBRARY
LIBRARY
WWW.GRPL.ORG/SUMMERREADING
WWW.GRPL.ORG/SUMMERREADING 616.988.5400
616.988.5400
16
pools
May 2013
POOLS OPEN JULY 1
Open & Lap Swim Fees
Youth (under 1)
Youth (ages 1-17)
Adult (ages 18 & up)
Free
$1.00/Resident; $4.00/Nonresident
$2.00/Resident; $4.00/Nonresident
Open & Lap Swim Punchcard Fees*
5 punches
10 punches
15 punches
20 punches
25 punches
30 punches
$4.00/Resident;
$8.00/Resident;
$12.00/Resident;
$16.00/Resident;
$20.00/Resident;
$24.00/Resident;
$16.00/Nonresident
$32.00/Nonresident
$48.00/Nonresident
$64.00/Nonresident
$80.00/Nonresident
$94.00/Nonresident
*One punch per visit for youth (ages 1-17) and two punches per
visit for adults (ages 18 & up).
Family Pool Pass
The family pool pass is $80.00 per Grand Rapids Resident household and allows members of the household to swim during open
swim hours as often as they wish throughout the 2013 swim season. A household is defined as people living at the same address.
Open Swim Hours at Richmond
Monday
Tuesday through Saturday
12:30-5:00 p.m.
12:30-7:00 p.m.
Open Swim Hours at Briggs
Monday through Wednesday
Thursday through Saturday
12:30-5:00 p.m.
12:30-7:00 p.m.
Open Swim Hours at Martin Luther King, Jr.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday Tuesday & Thursday
.
of July
h
t
4
e
th
.
ed for
s
o
l
c
e
gust 17
b
u
l
l
i
A
w
n
s
o
l
on
All poo
he seas
t
r
o
f
lose
Pools c
12:30-7:00 p.m.
12:30-5:00 p.m.
Lap S
wim H
ours
B
r
iggs P
Wedn
ool
esday
s fro
m 6:3
0-7:25
p.m.
Mart
in Lu
t
her K
Thur
ing, J
sdays
r. Po
from
ol
5:30-6
:25 p.
m.
See page 6 for
swim leson
information!

spring 2013 edition - Grand Rapids Public Schools

Transcription

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