File - Go Rocket City

Transcription

may2013
Volume 2012/13, Issue 3
The District Newsletter For Reeths-Puffer Schools
Rocket City, A Destination Worth Reaching!
A Message from the
Superintendent
You won’t find Rocket City on a map, but it does exist.
Your GPS won’t locate Rocket City either, but it’s
definitely a destination worth reaching.
That’s why here in Rocket City we develop and encourage extra-curricular and cocurricular activities that help our citizens succeed in the classroom, in college and in
life. Our faculty and parents are stepping up and leading an unprecedented number
of offerings to help all students engage and excel: and it’s working. The largest study
ever completed on the subject found that high school students who were involved in
one to three additional activities a year had an average GPA between 3.4 and 3.9;
students who weren’t engaged - a 1.9 GPA.
Rocket City is Reeths-Puffer Schools. Our border
stretches over five different townships, but our mission
focuses on only one goal: success.
If you want the extra advantage in life, you want more than the three R’s. You want
Rocket City.
• Success for our students in the classroom, in college and in life. • Success for our families who roll up their sleeves and care for a school system second to none.
• Success from an unrivaled faculty fueled by innovation and compassion, and educated by over 300 college degrees.
Here in Rocket City, music is a soundtrack to success. Here in Rocket City, music
and the arts matter. Reeths-Puffer is Rocket City, and here in Rocket City you’ll find
concert band, symphonic band, jazz band, guitar class, choir, wind ensemble, guard,
and more marching band state championships than any school, any size, anywhere
in the state. Rocket City is music to your ears. Rocket City is where champions are
born. Reeths-Puffer Schools is Rocket City. Be a part of something extraordinary.
Rocket City isn’t like any other city, because Reeths-Puffer isn’t like any other school.
You won’t find Rocket City on a map, and you won’t find a better or safer place to
learn, contribute and compete.
So…How many people are behind the successful launch of a Rocket? How much
focus and determination does it take to not only aim for the stars, but to reach them?
Here in Rocket City, we offer the only K-12 World Language program in the county.
Here in Rocket City, we offer 12 Advance Placement classes for college credit. We
offer more opportunities in the arts, more opportunities in athletics, more technology,
more expertise, and more of what you need. Reeths-Puffer is Rocket City, and there
is no better place to launch your academic career.
Steve Edwards, Superintendent of Schools
{ INSide }
2 Top Ten Graduates
13 Elementary News Continued
3-4 Curriculum Corner
14 RPI News
Reading, Writing, Arithmetic
and Rock-Climbing
5 Rocket City Supporters
15-16 Middle School News
6 Go Green - Recycle
17-18 High School News
7-10 Elementary News
19 Calendars
The world has changed since the three R’s once defined school. What a student
accomplishes outside of the classroom means more than ever.
11-12 Sports Schedules/Camps
20 Board of Education
Reeths-Puffer High School Class of 2013
Top Ten Graduates
Valedictorian of the Reeths-Puffer High School Class
of 2013 is Alyssa Jenkins. Alyssa is the daughter of
Jeffery and Monica Jenkins. She has a weighted
grade point average of 4.34. Alyssa is a member of
the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society,
and the Spanish Club. She is also in the Michigan
Math League and volunteers for the WINGS program.
Alyssa plans to study Biomedical Science or Zoology.
Salutatorian of the Reeths-Puffer High School Class
of 2013 is William Miller. He is the son of Bill and Deb
Miller. William has a weighted grade point average of
4.21. He has been very active in the Boy Scouts of
America, achieving Eagle Scout in 2010. He is a Den
Chief for a local Cub Scout pack and a Chapter Chief
for the Order of the Arrow. William is also a member
of the National Honor Society, concert band, was Vice
President of SADD, and is a soccer player. He plans to
attend either Michigan State University or Grand Valley
State University, where he is recipient of the Award for Excellence Scholarship.
William plans to pursue a career in Veterinarian Medicine.
Graduating number 3 in the Class of 2013 is Mason
Bennett. Mason is the son of Mia Dutton and David
Bennett. He has a weighted grade point average
of 4.19. Mason has been active in Reeths-Puffer’s
Choir and Theatre programs, and performed in this
year’s spring musical. He has also been involved in
the Michigan Math League and Ski Club. He plans
to attend either the University of Michigan or Western
Michigan University to study Biomedical Engineering.
Brett Boes is graduating number 4 in the Class of 2013.
He is the son of Mark and Marcia Boes He has a
weighted grade point average of 4.19. Brett has been
involved in the First Priority Club, and played varsity
baseball. He is also active in the youth group from his
church and is a camp counselor. Brett will be attending
Michigan Technological University this fall to major in
Wildlife Ecology and Management
Casey Trautner, son of Mark and Lori Trautner, is
graduating number 5 in the Class of 2013. He has
a weighted grade point average of 4.16. Casey is
president of the National Honor Society, a member of
the IMPACT Team, and Captain of the hockey team.
He also plays lacrosse and volunteers in community
projects. Casey plans to attend Muskegon Community
College for two years, then transfer to a university to
pursue a career in Engineering or Medicine.
2 n May 2013 n www.reeths-puffer.org n Your Reeths-Puffer Schools Newsletter
Jonathon Meier, son of Dave and Patti Meier, is
graduating number 6 in this year’s class with a weighted
grade point average of 4.12. Jonathon is a member of
the National Honor Society, has played football, soccer,
run track and cross-country. Jonathon will be attending
Grand Valley State University this fall to pursue a career
in Anesthesiology.
Graduating number 7 in the Class of 2013 is Courtney
Fox. Courtney is the daughter of Troy and Natalie
Fox. She has a weighted grade point average of 4.11.
Courtney has been involved in the National Honor
Society, Student Council, Spanish Club, Ski Club,
golf and the Close-Up program. She plans to attend
Michigan State University’s James Madison College to
pursue a career in Political Science.
Cameron Schott is graduating number 8 in this year’s
class. He is the son of Scott and Jacquelyn Schott.
Cameron has a weighted grade point average of 4.09.
He has participated in football, baseball, lacrosse and
is a member of the National Honor Society. Cameron
plans to attend Wayne State University Honors College,
where he has received the Gold Scholarship. He plans
to study Pre-Med.
Morgan Jones, daughter of Tim and Debbie Jones,
is number 9 in this year’s class. She has a weighted
grade point average of 4.01. Morgan has been active in
the National Honor Society, marching band, symphonic
band and Girl Scouts. She also volunteers in the
community and tutors other students. Morgan plans
to attend Ferris State University this fall, where she
is a recipient of the President’s Scholarship, to study
Biotechnology.
Jessica Dick is graduating 10th in the Class of 2013.
She is the daughter of Geoffrey Dick and Julie Powell.
Jessica has a weighted grade point average of 3.96.
She has trained in Classical Ballet for 12 years with
the Grand Rapids Ballet Company and Muskegon
Lakeshore Dance. She is a member of the MCC
Muskegon Dance Company, National Honor Society,
Children’s Theatre, plays tennis, and is President of the
Student Council. Jessica won 1st place in the 2013
Showcase for her contemporary ballet solo. She has
been awarded a scholarship to train this summer with the Pittsburgh Ballet Program.
She will then attend a four year college to major in Dance Performance.
Curriculum
Corner
Have You Heard the Buzz?
Have you heard the buzz about the changes taking
place in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math
classrooms across Reeths-Puffer? Are you hearing
comments like, “I love the new math” or “I need
more evidence” to support my writing topic? I hope
you are hearing and seeing the differences from
your child regarding the changes in ELA and Math
curriculum content.
Terri Portice
Director of Teaching
and Learning
In the December Rocket Review, I shared that ReethsPuffer, like other schools across Michigan and the
United States have begun the transition to the Common
Core State Standards (CCSS). These standards were
developed by state leaders with the goal of creating a
clear, focused and rigorous set of standards that will
prepare all students for college and careers.
We live in an ever-changing world. This means that educational systems across
the country, Reeths-Puffer included, need to make systems/curriculum changes
to ensure that all students are ready for the different demands expected from
colleges and the global work force.
The new standards provide a roadmap of what is expected of every student at
each grade level. These standards come with the developmental progressions
built in to them. This allows teachers to ensure content is taught consistently,
so students have the required skills to be successful in the deeper level learning
being expected of them. The standards require students to understand the “why”
and then demonstrate the “how” by applying the learning to real world situations.
Our world today requires problem solvers, communicators, and creative thinkers.
Reeths-Puffer Staff are dedicated to ensuring that students are prepared for the
learning expectations.
Every professional development day (teacher in-service day) this year has been
spent digging into the standards and outlining as teams what the standards
mean for teaching and learning. Staff has also reviewed documents and
released sample assessments that outline what students will be expected to
demonstrate to obtain proficiency with the new standards. After dissecting the
standards and assessment expectations, content area teams have used these
days to develop curriculum materials and units of instruction to utilize with
their students. Teachers are collaborating to ensure instruction is consistent
across the district and that we are building on the knowledge and skills students
have gained from previous instruction. This helps students gain a deeper
understanding of the new learning expectations and how to apply what is learned
in daily life.
Wondering What Changes are coming for Assessments with
the Adoption of Common Core?
This small informational piece is a sneak peak to a more detailed article that will be
shared in the next Rocket Review which will be released in August 2013.
The following are Released Samples from the Math MEAP (Current State Level
Assessment) and samples from the SMARTER Balanced Assessment Consortium
(New Assessment beginning in 2014-2015 school year).
Questions to Ponder:
•What do you notice about the new assessment items?
•How are the new assessments the same or different than the current MEAP Assessment?
•What skills will the students now need in order to solve the assessment tasks presented with the new assessments?
May 2013 n www.reeths-puffer.org n Your Reeths-Puffer Schools Newsletter n 3
What parents need to know
to help their child at home...
What are the changes in Language Arts?
What will students need to understand or demonstrate
in daily work and on upcoming assessments?
• Students will need to read a balanced amount of fiction and non-fiction text
• Students will need to read increasingly more difficult materials
• Students will collaboratively discuss and answer questions about what they are
reading using evidence to support a claim or position
• Students will need to write to inform or argue a point by using evidence from
multiple sources
• Students will research information from a variety of sources to enhance small and
large group discussions and research projects
• Students will communicate effectively through different methods (i.e., verbal
conversations, written communication, drawings, presentations, etc.)
• Students will increase their academic vocabulary
What Can You do to Help Your Child Increase
their Reading and Writing Skills?
• For elementary age children, read aloud daily with your child. Discuss the book
as you are reading together. Ask questions to check their understanding and to
connect the text to something in life. Have fun when reading and do things like
brainstorm different ways the story could end.
• Read often with your child and read a variety of text types (books, magazines,
directions, recipes, menus, camp brochures, informational travel books, how-to
books, etc.)
• For older children, share with them what you are reading (for work and enjoyment)
and highlight why reading is important in school and in the workforce. Develop
and share your passion of reading with your child.
• Ask your child to provide examples (evidence) to support their opinion
(arguments/judgments) about what they are reading, hearing or doing.
• Encourage your children to engage in writing as a natural part of the family routine
(write notes to one another, write thank you notes for gifts, add needed items to
the grocery list, document special events on the calendar, create a to do list, etc.).
• Allow children to select books based on his/her interests. Keep your child reading
throughout the entire summer months. Reading is fun, so make sure to take a
book with you to the beach or wherever you go.
help support ROCKET CITY USA
To become an advertising sponsor in future editions of the Rocket City USA, call
Mark Williamson at (231) 766-3038 or email [email protected].
Exciting Changes Coming to Math Course:
With the transition to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) all students will be
experiencing higher level math concepts and gaining deeper level skills in all math
courses. The common core has moved some concepts to different grade levels based
on research of the learning progressions and therefore will be changing the “what” and
“how” we teach K-12 math now and in the upcoming years.
Reeths-Puffer administrators and teachers are working together to realign our
curriculum and course offerings to ensure that all students are provided the necessary
mathematical content that is different and much more rigorous than our previous
state required content expectations. There is also more depth of content that must
be mastered at each grade level K-8 than ever before. We will be following the
recommendations of the CCSS to determine the course recommendations as well as
when and how to advance math students within our system. The intent is not to take
advanced courses away from students rather to make sure students have a deep and
solid mathematical understanding of the new standards (as determined by evidence)
before placing students in advanced math courses. We believe that with a strong
foundation in math K-8 there will be more opportunities for continued success in math
and advanced courses at the high school level and beyond.
Some of the highest priority content for college and career readiness comes from
grades 6-8. The content in these 6-8 math courses include the critical skills needed
in advanced math and for use in real life mathematical problems. Rather than
skipping grade level content, it is recommended by CCSS that students should have
appropriate progressions of foundational content to ensure the likelihood of success
in high school mathematics. With that being said, we also recognize that students
who are capable of moving more quickly through math deserve thoughtful attention,
both to ensure that they are challenged and that they are mastering the full range of
mathematical content and skills without omitting critical concepts and topics.
To ensure we are meeting the needs of our students we have revamped our advanced
math procedures to include more student evidence as the criteria for placement
in advanced math coursework. As in the past, students who are recommended
for advanced math go through an assessment process to determine if they have
the necessary foundational skills to take the advanced math during their middle
school years. This year another level of assessment was added and students who
were recommended also participated in taking the ACT Explore assessment. This
assessment will provide more national level comparison of our students to the skills
required for success in advanced math placement coursework.
Please note that what is not included in this graphic below is the placement of current
advanced math students at the middle school level. These decisions will be made
from assessment data and meetings between administrators, teachers and parents.
In transitioning to the new math standards K-12, we believe that the new standards
and curriculum materials will have a positive impact on the math experiences and
learning outcomes for all students.
The Meijer Trail
The Meijer Trail, a community
improvement project for the
Meijer property adjacent to
Reeths-Puffer Schools, has
started taking shape! Initiated
by R-P parent, Ron Peel, and
made possible by an agreement
between R-P Schools and the
generosity of Meijer, the trail
is a one mile loop open to the
community and school groups
for fitness activities including
running, biking, cross country
skiing, and walking. The trail
will become part of the school
cross-country course, and will be
used by other groups including
Endurance Adventure and Girls on the
Run. All fencing will remain in place
with new entrances added. Signs and
distance markers will be placed to mark
the trail which will also include fitness
activity stations. The forest trees are
being trimmed by hand to roughly 8 feet
for safety, and the trail will be routed
through natural clearings. It is hoped
that LED lighting can be added at a
later
date to extend the hours of use
Working hard trimming trees is Ron
in
the
winter months. The trail will be
Peel, Nick Kunnen, Kam Peel, and Bruce
maintained
by volunteer action groups.
Gaultney.
An Extreme Woods Makeover took place
on April 13th to clean and groom the area. Donations to help maintain the area are
welcome. If you’d like to make a donation, please contact [email protected] for
more information on how you can help.
Board of Education
Recognition
The Reeths-Puffer Board of Education is dedicated to the continued success of
Reeths-Puffer Schools. In February, members of the Board were honored for
the difficult job they do. In a climate of change and challenge, board members
develop policies and make tough decisions on complex educational and social
issues that affect the entire community and impact individual students. The
elected officials who sit on the Reeths-Puffer Board of Education are Kim
Kelly, President; Mike Weessies, Vice-President; Bob DeMuro, Secretary; Mary
Schaab, Treasurer; Doug Brown, Trustee; Kathy Zahl, Trustee; and Susan
Blackburn, Trustee.
Students honored board members by presenting them with their framed
art work. Student art work is displayed in the main hall at the Educational
Services Building. Students sharing their artwork include: Millie Curow, Central
Elementary; Faith Latsch, McMillan Elementary; Lemech Crosby, Reeths-Puffer
Elementary; Jenna Terpstra, Pennsylvania Elementary; Zachary Ostoin, RPI;
Jesse Moreria, Middle School; and Shelbi Somers, High School.
Collaborative Effort Connects Neighborhoods to Schools
Last summer, a beautiful new sidewalk was built behind Central Elementary and the Middle
School. Students and neighbors south and southeast of the school may now walk or bike on a
sidewalk all the way to the schools. This project was made possible through the collaborative
efforts of the Muskegon Northside Lions Club, the Reeths-Puffer Youth Soccer Club, Fenner
Glen Homeowners Association, and Reeths-Puffer Schools.
Pictured: Muskegon Northside Lions Club members, shown here, donated their time and
talents to this project.
_______________________________________
rocket city usa
Rocket City USA News is published three times per year by Reeths-Puffer Schools, 991 W.
Giles Road, Muskegon, MI 49445. Reeths-Puffer accepts advertising to defray the cost of
production and distribution and appreciates the support of its advertisers. Reeths-Puffer does
not specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services. Please contact Margie Bates
with inquiries at (231) 719-3104, or email at [email protected]. Visit our website at
www.reeths-puffer.org.
Notice of Rights and Privacy
Parents of Reeths-Puffer school children are hereby notified that the school often publishes for
public view the names and/or pictures of Reeths-Puffer students. The purpose varies and may
involve honor rolls, attendance lists, special awards, athletic rosters, etc. If, for any reason, you
do not wish your child’s name or picture to be published, please contact your school office
immediately. This notice is in compliance with the Rights and Privacy Act, P. L. 93.380.
Go Green!
Community Recycling Center
“Kids helping you to help the planet.”
Recycling is the process of making new products from used materials. This not only has
many benefits for the environment, but also for the future of the human race.
where:
2 Locations
R-P Pennsylvania Campus
2500 Pennsylvania Ave.
(231) 719-3159
what:
Buck Snort Plaza
1500 Whitehall Rd.
(231) 744-1028
Paper, Cardboard, Plastic #1-7, Metal (Place in Dumpster)
Ink, Cell Phones, Batteries,
Caps from Plastic Containers (Bring Inside)
For more information about this recycling program contact Jami at 719-3159
or Jodi at 744-1028
Central
Teachers
bring math
standards
alive!
Valuable learning occurs when students actively construct their own mathematical
understanding, which is often accomplished through the use and manipulation of various
objects to construct meaning. Teachers in all grade levels at Central and throughout the
district are providing daily experiences to help students develop and better understand
number sense.
Top: Candance DeAugustine
roll’s the dice working on
probability of different
arrangements.
Students are the Winners!
First grade students at Central Elementary got a wonderful surprise.
Their teacher, Mrs. Reynolds, was awarded a grand prize of 100 free
books from the Great AKJ Books Giveaway Contest. Her contest
entry showed the experiences of her students stemming from the book
Gotta Go! Gotta Go! by Sam Swope. The book is about a Monarch
caterpillar’s journey to Mexico.
The value of the books received was over $1,000. Half of books were
donated to the library at Central Elementary; the other half are a great
asset to her classroom library to be enjoyed by all her students.
Right: Students use
visual objects and write
out the information
to formulate it into an
equation.
Animal Adaptations Studied
Third graders at Central Elementary studied animal habitats. With help from
the Lakeshore
Big Lesson, Big Learning, Big Fun!
Fourth grade students from Mrs. Mack
and Mrs. Smith’s class experienced
a week of big learning during
Museum
Center,
Central’s
Library was
transformed
into the
Michigan
their Big Lesson at the Lakeshore
outdoors.
Museum Center. Students spent
Along with
the week learning about the rich
reading
history of Muskegon in relationship
and writing,
to immigration, lumbering past,
students were busy
lumbering present and philanthropy.
identifying various
Day one provided students with a
native animal pelts
simulation of what a prospective
and discovered
lumberjack immigrant went through at
how they help the
Ellis Island, as well as identifying artifacts of this time period, and visiting the archives.
animal adapt to their
The second and third day, students learned about lumbering past and present, respectively.
surroundings. It was
Students then compared the tools and jobs of lumberjacks today with those of yesteryear.
Lumberjack, Eddie Bauer (aka Mr. Lyons) paid the students a visit at the museum. He shared
a fun day of learning
at Central Elementary.
with students the trials and rewards of being a lumberjack back in the day.
On the fourth day, students learned the importance of philanthropy and discovered the many
gifts lumber baron Charles Hackley gave to Muskegon. The week concluded with a celebration
of learning, complete with student designed lumberjack games and breakfast. Student “jacks”
devoured flappers, sow belly, pratties, sinkers, door knobs and washed it all down with black lead.
fun was had by all!
Top: Ryan Byrnes, Tyler Tallefson, and Bre Holderman examine their
pelt’s texture and color scheme.
Center: Alexander McHaney, Trevor Vein and Kenzie Scott write down
their observations.
Season
of Giving
Students from Mrs. Goodman’s third grade class
met at a local charity over Christmas break to
help package food for the needy. Classroom
mother Stacey Brooks arranged for the students
to meet at Loaves and Fishes in downtown
Muskegon. While there, students packaged
up cheese, crackers, candy and other foods
for distribution to struggling families around
Non-Fiction
Reading Celebration
Mrs. Mason took her second grade class to the Muskegon
Lakeshore Museum for a Big Lesson week long study. Each
student studied an animal in its habitat by exploring the habitats
exhibits and engaging in hands-on experiences. Guest Speakers
from Hoffmaster State Park, Pet Smart, and Clarke Animal
Muskegon. When the work was done, students
toured the facility and saw how food and
nonperishable items were stored and distributed.
This was a great opportunity for Central students
to reach out and help others during the holidays.
Top: Mrs. Brooks and sons help out in the
kitchen.
Right: Jessica, Tiffany and McKensie package
food
Hospital worked with students to help them better understand
the animal they were studying. The session closed with students
Mighty McMillan
Math Makes
Many Mathletes
setting up their own mini museum and explaining to parents and
community members what they had learned during their week at
the Museum.
Our school community is changing the
way math is taught in response to the new
Common Core State Standards in math.
Here at McMillan, we’re making sure that
our students are experiencing math, not just
learning it. The common core has a set of mathematical practice standards that teachers consider
when designing lessons. The standards will help our students become more independent
learners. Staff is also using number sense routines to help develop a stronger foundation for
learning higher level math content. Our kiddos are rockin’ and our teachers are rollin’!
Read S’more Books
Central Elementary celebrated March is Reading Month in a fun
way. The theme for the month was CAMPING & FIRE SAFETY.
Students kicked off reading month with a library reading night
called CAMPOUT WITH A GOOD BOOK. Hot dogs, chips, and
s’mores were available for everyone that came to read. Ten new
books for the library and food for the evening were paid for in part
by a grant from the Community Foundation for Muskegon County
written by Miss Kim Reynolds, first grade teacher at Central
Elementary.
Cuddle Up with
a Book and a
Buddy
Cold dark nights don’t stop Mrs. Mikesell’s
students from staying warm. They are
cuddling up with a book and a buddy.
Each child took home a tape recorder,
headphones and a stuffed animal. They
Pictured: Jessica Howe, Tommy Sutton,
listen to a book on tape each night. The
Gerald Woodland, Allen Maxwell, and Willow
students exchange their books as often as
Massie
they like. What a great way to improve their
reading throughout the cold dark winter evenings.
Cub Scout Celebration at Mighty McMillan
McMillan Cub Scout Troop 4042 celebrated
the Cub and Boy Scouts National Birthday in
February with a Blue and Gold Banquet held
on February 23. The evening began with a
flag presentation by a couple of Webelo (We’ll
Be Loyal) Scouts, the Scouts Promise and the
Pledge of Allegiance. All then enjoyed a pot-luck
Sports Teams:
Teaching
Fundamentals
and Life Skills
meal and dessert.
This banquet allowed grandparents, aunts, uncles
and extended family to see the accomplishments
and activities of the pack. All boys were given
the opportunity to display their work and accomplishments thus far. A video with pictures of activities and meetings
played while everyone enjoyed their meal. Throughout the evening, several games were played and all were able to
participate in a 50/50 raffle with proceeds going back to the pack. The evening ended with a silent auction, which
included product the Scouts had sold, as well as some home-made goodies! There was great support from loved
ones and the scouts all left with a goody bag.
McMillan’s Dancing Lunch Lady
Students at McMillan had a pleasant surprise when their lunch helper, Kim Haggard, brought her Cedar Creek Cloggers
in to perform. Miss Kim has been teaching clogging in the area for quite some time. The children knew they would get
to see a western dancing performance, but didn’t realize that the group is led by their favorite lunch lady. McMillan’s
Reading Month Theme was the Wild, Wild West and Miss Kim offered to bring her group to McMillan to show how folks
in the early days entertained themselves. The cloggers ranged in age from teen to more mature and they were fantastic!
Students really enjoyed the show and asked if she would dance in the kitchen sometime. McMillan staff was so inspired
they want to have Miss Kim teach a class this Spring… as long as she tones it down a bit. Thanks Miss Kim!
Thanks to parent volunteers, interested
students learned the fundamentals of
basketball, as well as some life lessons. The
teams practiced twice a week after school
and played games against other elementary
teams on Saturdays. Students learned
fundamentals such as how to dribble while
running, passing, guarding and shooting.
They also learned how to persevere and
not quit when things got a little rough. They
learned about hard work, and having faith
in your team mates. Comments from the
players include: “The point was to have fun
and be with my friends. I also got a lot of
exercise and was excited to play games in
front of a crowd.” “I was a little bummed that
we didn’t win more games, but it wasn’t the
end of the world.” Nope, it wasn’t… life lesson
learned.
RPEL is Going Green
to becoming a community leader in renewable
There is more than one way to “Go Green” at
were established to support student learning and
RPEL! In addition to showing your school pride
make connections to the school district’s Strategic
and wearing the traditional green and white
Plan. Along with the four BIG HAIRY AUDACIOUS
colors, you can “Go Green” by helping to protect
GOALS, RPEL launched its campaign last school
and care for the environment. The students,
year to reduce, reuse and recycle anything and
staff and families at RPEL have established four
everything – from batteries to juice pouches! Watch
BIG HAIRY AUDACIOUS GOALS: Wind Turbine,
for more exciting news from RPEL! Coming this
Community Garden, Roof Top Garden and a
spring… An Extreme Makeover, the building of a
Community Transfer Station. We are on our way
Community Garden.
resources and resource management. These goals
Students Learn the Big Lesson
Have you ever wondered what life was like for the Native
Americans or the Pioneers? How about life in the Early
1900’s? Students in Mrs. Carlson’s class were able to
experience life in the past when they participated in the Big
Lesson program entitled “How Times Change.” Students
used the Lakeshore Museum Center as their classroom for
a week. They also visited the Scolnik Depression House,
Hackley Fire Barn, Hackley School, The Heritage Museum,
and the Muskegon Archives. During the week, they explored
daily life, jobs, transportation, community services, and games
over time. From making clay pots and churning butter to
scraping animal fur and learning about types of transportation,
students realized that life today is still about obtaining food,
water, shelter, and clothing, but is done so much differently
than in the past. Each student created a final project and had
a celebration at the end of the week.
Growing Great Readers
Reeths-Puffer Elementary had a Reading Month theme
of “Growing Great Readers” which also helped support
the kick-off of their Community Garden. A Read-A-Thon
was sponsored to raise funds to support the Community
Garden. RPEL staff and students want to show their
LOVE for Muskegon by building and maintaining a
Community Garden on a large section of the playground.
Last year, the school was awarded Michigan Green
School, Evergreen Status. Students want to continue
their “GO GREEN” efforts.
One of the next steps is to implement, maintain and
share fresh produce from the Community Garden. This
garden will be built and maintained by the students, staff
and parents of Reeths-Puffer Elementary. They plan to
begin developing their garden this fall by mapping and
measuring out the site. Students will help create a “wish
list” of things to include in their garden.
RPEL staff and parents will assist students in building
the garden, putting up a fence, building a shed, installing
a roof top garden on the shed, developing a compost
area, preparing the soil, and finally starting the seeds and
planting the garden.
When the garden is growing and producing, students will
have a hand in harvesting and sharing the crop locally.
Students will examine the needs of the community
and determine how to “give back” to a local, non-profit
organization by donating the produce from the garden.
R-P 2013 varsity Sports Schedule
Cross Country – Boys Varsity
DateTime
PlaceOpponent
Wednesday, August 14
Thursday, August 29
Saturday, September 7
Wednesday, September 11
Wednesday, October 9
Saturday, October 12
TBA
6:45 p.m.
8:45 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
TBA
Home
Home
Away
Home
Away
Away
Home
Away
Friday, October 25
Regionals 10/25 or 10/26
1st Practice
Fruitport
Big Red Invitational
Tri-Meet-Zeeland East & Union
Mona Shores
Kenowa Hills
Muskegon
GMAA Meet
Cross Country – Girls Varsity
DateTime
PlaceOpponent
Thursday, August 29
Wednesday, October 9
TBA
6:45 p.m.
9:30 a.m.
4:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
TBA
Home
Home
Away
Home
Away
Away
Home
Home
Friday, October 25
Regionals 10/25 or 10/26
1st Practice
Fruitport
Big Red Invitational
Tri-Meet-Zeeland East & Union
Mona Shores
Kenowa Hills
Muskegon
GMAA Meet
Golf – Girls Varsity
DateTime
PlaceOpponent
Thursday, August 22
Tuesday, September 3
Thursday, September 19
9:00 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
9:00 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
Away
Away
Home
Away
Away
Pre-season Conf. Tournament
Jamboree @ Union
Jamboree
Greenville Invitational
Jamboree @ Mona Shores
9:00 a.m.
Away
Post-season Tournament
Football – Varsity
DateTime
PlaceOpponent
Thursday, August 29
7:00 p.m.
Home
Friday, September 6
7:00 p.m.
Away
Friday, September 13
7:00 p.m.
Away
7:00 p.m.
Home
7:00 p.m.
Home
Friday, October 4
7:00 p.m.
Away
Friday, October 11
7:00 p.m.
Home
Friday, October 18
7:00 p.m.
Away
Friday, October 25
7:00 p.m.
Away
Fruitport
Hudsonville
Jenison
East Kentwood
Kenowa Hills
Zeeland East
Grand Rapids Union (Homecoming)
Mona Shores
Muskegon
Soccer– Varsity
DateTime
PlaceOpponent
Saturday, August 24
9:00 a.m.
Away
Justin Bailey Memorial Shootout (Portage)
Tuesday, August 27
Thursday, August 29
Tuesday, October 1
Thursday, October 3
Friday, October 4
Tuesday, October 8
6:45 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
TBA
6:45 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
TBA
6:45 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
4:45 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
Away
Home
Away
Home
Away
Home
Away
Away
Home
Away
Away
Away
Home
Away
Home
Home
Spring Lake
West Ottawa
Holland
Grand Haven
Eaton Rapids/Mason Tournament
Kenowa Hills
Zeeland East
Western MI Christian
Grand Rapids Union
Mona Shores
Muskegon
Kenowa Hills
Zeeland East
Grand Rapids Union
Fruitport
Mona Shores
Thursday, October 10
6:45 p.m.
Home
Muskegon
Tennis – Varsity
DateTime
PlaceOpponent
Monday, September 23
Saturday, October 5
TBA
4:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
TBA
TBA
Home
Away
Home
Home
Away
Away
Away
1st Practice
Mona Shores
Kenowa Hills
Zeeland East
Grand Rapids Union
Kenowa Hills (Conf. Tournament)
Regionals
Friday, October 18
TBA
Away
State Finals
Volleyball – Varsity
DateTime
PlaceOpponent
Saturday, August 24
Thursday, October 3
Saturday, October 5
Tuesday, October 8
Tuesday, October 22
Tuesday, October 29
Monday, November 4
Home
Home
Away
Away
Away
Away
Home
Away
Away
Away
Home
Away
Away
Away
Away
Home
Home
Away
Home
Away
TBA
9:00 a.m.
TBA
TBA
5:00 p.m.
8:30 a.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
TBA
6:30 p.m.
TBA
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
TBA
First Practice
Rocket Invitational
Quad @ Fremont
Whitehall Invitational
Grand Haven Quad
Grandville Invitational
Kenowa Hills
Zeeland East
Mona Shores
Spring Lake Invitational
Muskegon
Grand Rapids Union
Sparta
Kenowa Hills
GMAA Tourney @t Mona Shores
Zeeland East
Mona Shores
Muskegon
Grand Rapids Union
Districts
R-P Athletic Summer Camp Opportunities
*Summer Youth Football Camp (July 17 & 18)
*Summer Tennis Lessons
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The R-P Youth Football Camp will actually be two camps going on at once. Grades
2-4 will be running a camp independent from grades 5-7. As such, specific teaching to
appropriate grade level can be used. Camp includes introduction to R-P Varsity Football
Staff, football basics, specified instruction per position for both offense and defense and
fun!!!
Taught by Coach Craig Gurr - Open to any R-P student entering 6th grade or higher.
Monday through Friday - 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Program will include drills, conditioning,
and fundamentals needed to be a successful tennis player. It is also a perfect place to
instill both the mental and physical aspects of our R-P Tennis Program. We at ReethsPuffer have a specific way we want to play and this summer program will enforce that.
Middle School Cross Country Summer Conditioning
The purpose of the summer camps is to teach the basic fundamentals and prepare
players for high school soccer. This camp is for any student entering 3rd through 12th
grade.
Middle School students interested in running cross country are welcome to join the Snug
Harbor Running Club. The club of runners meets every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday
at 6:00 p.m. at the Snug Harbor parking lot (by the pavilion) beginning June 23. Come
ready to run and explore the trails. Call Coach Richardson at 744-0781 for more details.
Hockey Camps
Lift-Off Hockey Youth Camp
Ages 4 through 12, July 15 – 18, 2013
Lakeshore Sports Centre
Registration is available at www.liftoffhockey.com or by calling (231) 730-0989
Lift-Off Hockey Development Camp
For students entering grades 5-8 and 9-12
June 10 – July 11 (Monday and Thursday)
Lakeshore Sports Centre
Registration is available at www.liftoffhockey.com or by calling (231) 730-0989
*Volleyball Camp (July 29, 30 and 31)
Girls in 5th & 6th grade – 10:00 a.m. to noon
Girls in 7th & 8th grade – noon to 2:00 p.m.
Coaches and current Reeths-Puffer High School Players will share their knowledge and
enthusiasm for this fast-paced sport. Girls should bring athletic shoes and clothes for
physical exercise. Registration to secure your shirt must be received by May 17th, 2013.
Registration received after May 17th will be accepted, but no t-shirt will be provided. No
Refunds!
*Soccer Camps (July 8 – 11, 2013)
Players in Grades 3rd – 5th attend 9:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Players in Grades 6th – 8th attend 3:00 to 5:30 p.m.
Pre-Team Camp: Players in Grades 9th – 12th attend 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
All sessions take place at the Reeths-Puffer High School soccer fields.
High School Cross Country Camp (August 4, 5, 6 and 7)
Anyone interested should visit Coach Richardson’s blog at http://blogs.reeths-puffer.org/
richardd/ and check out the “Cross Country” page.
*Speed & Sport Skill Development (June 10-August 2)
Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. or
Tuesdays & Fridays, 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. RPHS Gym
Free Heart Screening - Attention all high school students!
Mercy Health
Partners is offering free heart screening to ALL high school students. You can register and
obtain more information on this health initiative at http://athletehearts.eventbrite.com/.
* Pricing and registration forms can be found on line at http://www.reethspuffer.org/High_School/Athletics/youthcamps/
Girls Get Your Golf Going…
Anyone entering the 7th grade or above is welcome to golf outings on Thursday
mornings starting June 13 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Lincoln Golf Club. If you want more
information about R-P Ladies Golf, meet Coach Carter at Lincoln at 9:00 a.m., Thursday,
June 13.
Boys Basketball
Basketball Camp tentatively scheduled for June 10-13 (pending gym repair schedule).
Contact Coach Ingles at [email protected] for complete information.
2012-2013 All-Conference
Recipients (Winter)
Congratulations to the following student-athletes who earned All-Conference
honors this winter:
Wrestling- Andrew Emmons, Jon Woodring, JJ Covington,
Tyler Stenberg, Sean McWilliams, Julian Munday, Buck Tottingham,
and Stephen Hanson
Girls Basketball- Camaryia Williams and Kalisa Williams
Ice Hockey- Brenden Alderink, Aaron Andrews, Jeremy Joyce,
Josh Smith, Brandon Young, and Kyle Kendra
Competitive Cheer- Abrielle Lamphere, Isabelle Langlois, and
Courtney McGarey
Family Reading Night
Reeths-Puffer
Elementary knows
that partnering
with parents is key
to growing strong
readers. On March
5, RPEL held, “Family
Reading Night.” After
a pizza dinner, staff
spent the evening
working with families,
sharing tools and
skills to help develop
great readers at
home. Parents left with helpful songs, flashcards, websites, and books. This important
night was supported by Federal Title One funding. Thanks to all who participated and
helped to make this workshop a success.
Masterful Mathematicians
At Twin Lake
Elementary, being
a Rocket means
being a masterful
mathematician. Staff
is excited to move
into the new Common
Core State Standards
for Math. This new
curriculum engages
children in experiences
to gain deeper understanding of math. Problem solving and exploration have
replaced rote skill practice.
First graders are becoming masterful mathematicians by improving their
mathematical fluency. On the 100th day of school, students played the game “Clear
the Board” to practice addition skills and improve their fluency.
Activities with pattern blocks help children gain a deeper sense of shapes and
their characteristics. This “shape sense” becomes an important foundation for later
learning.
At Twin Lake Elementary, students
will tell you learning is fun…
Second grade students love to be Rockets when they learn in fun ways
with their friends. Students are using a strategy called “No Peeking” to
practice vocabulary
terms.
Love Bug hats
and headbands
were a fun part
of Valentine’s
Day. Kindergarten
children practiced
counting, matching
and shape attributes
with their Love Bugs.
Thank You Volunteers
School and classroom
volunteers make valuable
contributions to Twin Lake
Elementary every day! Pictured
is a volunteer working with a
student who is using Base-10
Blocks. School volunteers love
to be Rockets because they get
to work with great kids at Twin
Lake Elementary.
Fossil Detectives
Imagine an ant as large as a
poodle. Centipedes so large you
could ride them. Millions of years
ago, insects were much bigger
than they are today because there
was more oxygen which allowed
them to grow quite large. This
is one of the many things fourth
grade students at Twin Lake
Elementary learned while visiting
the Muskegon Lakeshore Museum.
At the museum, students used
what they learned in Science and put those skills to work in a hands-on setting;
becoming fossil detectives. Students were shown many interesting fossils and
were told what to look for when examining them. Some of the fossils were over
300 million years old. Each group of students had their own fossil to examine and
had to figure out if it was plant or animal, how old it was, where it lived and if it was
native to Michigan. Students learned much about the entire fossil collection after
their hands-on exploration and each group shared with the class what they learned
from their fossil.
While at the museum, students also learned that glaciers in Michigan destroyed
all of the dinosaur fossils and that Petoskey stones are easy to find in Michigan
because glaciers moved so much dirt. That may be why the Petoskey stone is the
Michigan State Stone. Students enjoyed their day of learning at the Muskegon
Lakeshore Museum.
100th Day
Kindergarten students took
an in-school “field trip” for the
100th day of school. Each
student walked 100 steps, and
noticed not everyone stopped
in the same spot. They used
mathematical reasoning to
figure out why everyone ended
up in a different place.
10 Fruit Loops, 10 spaces, 10 colors, 10 fingers, 10 friends… and 10 tens to make
100! Twin Lake students love to be Rockets because Rockets know many great
ways to use the number 10! Kindergarten and second grade students work and
learn together. Another great reason to be a Rocket!
R-P Intermediate Choirs Host
Elementary Choir Festival
The 5th and 6th grade choirs
hosted the first ever Michigan
Music Educators Association
Elementary Choral Festival held
at Reeths-Puffer High School
in February. Mrs. Deidra Ross,
R-P Intermediate Choir Teacher,
organized the event for West
Michigan area school districts.
Choir students prepared three
selections with their own school
choir directors then attended a
workshop with clinician Catherine
RPI in Harmony
If you wander the hallways at RPI around 1:00
Brodie, from Monroe, Michigan. Ms. Brodie was elected Teacher of the Year for her work in elementary music
p.m., you may find them a bit noisier than usual; not
education by the Michigan Music Teachers Association and by the Michigan School Vocal Music Association.
the usual hallway noise you’d expect from several
She currently directs the Monroe County Community College Agora Chorale. At the conclusion of the
hundred 5th and 6th graders, but singing, clapping,
workshop, the 4th, 5th, and 6th grade choir students performed their mini concert in the high school auditorium.
chanting, dancing and more. With over 200 students
Featured guests at the MMEA Elementary Festival were the R-PHS Madrigals directed by Regina Schlaff.
participating in choir this year, it’s hard to miss the
harmonious sounds echoing around the school.
Read, Read, Read
Choir is open to all students interested in singing
and performing. The year began with a skating party
to help build community and have some fun. Later,
Fifth grade students at R-P Intermediate use a
curriculum called Reading Workshop. This curriculum
includes lessons on how to teach students to pick
“just right books” using their Lexile scores and a
five finger quick reading test. Students learn how
to preview books and decide if it is a book they are
interested in reading. Once they have chosen their
book, students then read, read, read.
Students have a variety of tasks to complete as
they read a book such as making connections to
something in the story, sharing what they are reading
with other students, drawing pictures showing what
they are visualizing while they read, and writing a
book report once they have completed reading the
book. Students also meet individually with their
teachers to discuss books they have read, and
strategies they use when they read.
When students read books at their level they read
more books and more pages. When kids read more
there was a full house at the RPI Christmas Concert,
“Christmas Time is Here,” featuring the music of
Vince Guaraldi of Charlie Brown fame. The audience
enjoyed over 12 Christmas songs as well as acting,
dancing and a special performance of John Rutter’s
“Candlelight Carol” with the R-PHS Madrigals.
As the school year comes to an end, the RPI Choir
will finish on a high note with the annual RPI Spring
Musical, “Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr.” Saturday
morning cartoons plus Reading, Writing and
Arithmetic make for a winning combo. On April 12,
books they become better readers. At the end of
the first semester, kids on the Shark team read over
63,586 pages as a team. Each reading teacher
treated their classes to a party for their reading
accomplishments. Pictured is Miss Carter serving
brownies and toppings to the Shark Team.
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s-Puffer Sc
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RPI singers brought their audience back to the 70’s in
this smash musical stage show that featured singing,
acting, dancing and many other surprises!
It’s been a great year to be a Rocket at RPI.
Middle School Band Performs
on National Stage
Think of a national stage and nothing is
more fitting than a performance in our
Nation’s Capitol, Washington D.C. This
past March, the R-P Middle School Band,
under the direction of Mr. Rich Erne,
stepped it up a notch to represent ReethsPuffer and pay tribute to the spirit of our
founding fathers with performances at the
Veteran’s Retirement Home, a music clinic
with accomplished clinician Tiffany Hitz,
and visits to such venues as the Vietnam
Veteran’s Memorial, Capitol Building and
the White House. To top-off these experiences, the Band was afforded the great honor of laying a
wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider in Arlington National Cemetery.
The visit to Washington D.C caped performances at District Festival this past February where both
Concert and Symphonic Bands earned 1’s (the highest possible rating) across the board. The R-P
band program prepares students to perform at the highest levels and teaches them the value of being
a part of something greater than the sum of its parts. When asked what band has taught her, Christy
McFall talked about the lessons of teamwork and doing your personal best to support the team.
Brayshaoun Sain said that band gives students the opportunity to become talented at something
that’s fun.
With accomplishments such as these, you may wonder what’s next. Are they going to Disney? The
answer would be Yes! The next big adventure scheduled for the Middle School Band will be a trip to
Orlando to perform in front of visitors and guests at the Magic Kingdom in 2015. With the standard
for excellence set by Walt Disney, it seems fitting that Mr. Erne and the Middle School Band represent
Rocket City USA at this incredible venue.
Destination Imagination
How many uses can you think of for a paper clip? The creative students
at R-P Middle School who take part in Destination Imagination may come
up with more than your average adult! Destination Imagination focuses
on teaching
students
the creative
process
moving from
imagination to
innovation.
Two teams
from R-P
Middle
School recently took part in a local Real-i-tee (Improv) and Twist-o-Rama
(structural) competition and placed 1st and 5th, respectively.
Lauren Beebe, Corinn Dykes, Barbara Foltnewicz, Emily Little, Mickayla
Munroe, Tea’ Schlager, and Alexis Visser represented R-P Middle School in
the Structural Challenge and were coached by Tom Little and Ken Beebe.
Taking Part in the Improv Challenge, Kayla Cross, Abi Kaulis, Brian Krause,
Kayleigh McCrary, Sara Karafa, Zach Zelsdorf, and Brendan Schuppe
bested the competition from North Muskegon, Mona Shores, Ravenna,
Saugatuck and Walden Green in both the performance and instant
challenge portions of the competition by relying on teamwork and creativity.
These students went on to compete at the State Competition on April 19th
with their sights set on Globals, which take place in Atlanta at the end of
May.
CAREER TRAINING. MONEY FOR COLLEGE.
AND AN ENTIRE TEAM
TO HELP YOU
SUCCEED.
Serving part-time in the Air Guard, you’ll have an entire team of
like-minded individuals who want to help you get ahead. You can
choose from nearly 200 career specialties, and develop the hightech skills you need to compete in today’s world. You also train close
to home, all while receiving a steady paycheck, benefits and tuition
assistance. Talk to a recruiter today, and see how the Air Guard can
help you succeed.
GoANG.com/MI
1-800-TO-GO-ANG
MIAAA Honors R-P Middle
School Athletic Director
The Michigan Interscholastic Athletic
Administrators Association recently named
their Regional Athletic Directors of the Year.
This award is based on peer nominations and
represents the outstanding service provided to
students through support of athletic programs
and opportunities for our student athletes.
R-P Middle School is ‘Reaching Higher’ to
provide first class opportunities to our students
and is proud to celebrate with Mr. Farmer, the
MIAAA Region 14 Athletic Director of the Year!
Congratulations to Mr. Farmer!
Run-Walk Club
Getting students involved in after school activities is one of the most influential
ways to impact performance in the classroom. Beyond the classroom impact,
promoting healthy life style choices pays dividends for the long term well-being
of our students. The Run-Walk Club at R-P Middle School gives students
an opportunity to do both. Sponsored by Mrs. Niklasch, this program gets
students up and moving and helps prepare them to take part in the Seaway
Run, which takes place in June. Taking part in the program is free, and plans
are in place to expand to a 100-Mile Club in the Fall. Another great “extra”
(curricular) that students can take part in at R-P Middle School.
Pride Night
Take one part leadership training – add two parts staff support – add nine
talented and passionate student leaders, mix with a snow day and what do you
get? Pride Night 2013!
This past Fall, R-P Middle School students joined with middle school leaders
from across West Michigan at camp Miniwanca for the Michigan Middle Level
Leadership Institute. These students wanted an opportunity for R-P Middle
School students to come together to express the Pride and Spirit they have in
their school, and came up with the idea of hosting a Pride Night for all middle
school students.
Under the leadership of teacher, Student Council Co-Sponsor and head Varsity
Softball Coach Trista Stingle, these students surveyed the entire student body,
recruited community support, staff volunteers, and planned the first ever Pride
Night – which was a Huge Success! This night brought together students,
teachers, administration, community members and parents to celebrate what it
means to be a Reeths-Puffer Rocket.
Nearly canceled by one of our numerous “snow days,” the students took
advantage of the school Facebook page and urged administration to move
forward with the event. As luck would have it, Mother Nature cooperated. Nearly
half the student body showed and took part in volleyball, basketball, school
dance, musical improv, beanbag-toss competition, a photo booth and the crowdfavorite: saltine cracker eating contest.
Reaching Higher in Rocket City USA is about pride in academics and attitude.
Pride Night embodies the lessons in Citizenship students learn at R-P Middle
School. Lessons to prepare them for life in high school and beyond!
Intervention Room has Positive Liftoff!
Reeths-Puffer High School has instituted a new way of
providing support for special education students through
the Intervention Room. This innovative program provides
direct and targeted intervention strategies to leverage
student success in their six course schedule.
Sometimes the best testimonies come from students.
The following quotes come from students that have been
involved in the Intervention Room:
“I like the Intervention Room because it helps me be
more organized and it’s a quiet place to take my test and
study. It’s where I come to make up work on my lunch
hour. Mr. Gearhart and Mrs. Johnson are wonderful and
understanding teachers. The Intervention Room is a
great way to help students with organization and help us
become better students.” - Alicia Shank, sophomore.
“I like Intervention because it is peaceful and it’s a quiet
place to take tests without interruptions. I can have
a test read to me and ask questions on what I don’t
understand. The Intervention Room is a friendly place to
get help. The teachers are always there for the students.”
– Macie Weihl, sophomore.
have a positive response to the assistance they’re
receiving from the Intervention Room. The staff and
students involved in this new program are excited about
what’s in place and look forward to building on the
current successes to make it better next year.
“I like the Intervention Room because it’s fun and I like
talking about new school strategies that can help with
homework which I can put to use myself.” – Zachary
Russell, freshman.
The data is encouraging. Students are demonstrating
enhanced skills and achievement in their courses and
Football
Players
Share
Their
Time
During March
Reading Month,
Varsity and JV
football players from
Reeths-Puffer High School visited McMillan Elementary and Twin Lake
Madrigals demonstrate how they select soloists on
Elementary to read to students. The elementary students thought it was
stage at the A cappella Show.
cool having the football players in their classroom, but the real surprise was
how much the football players enjoyed the experience. It was a great day for
everyone with a lot of fun reading.
Football Team Adopts Family
The R-P football
team adopted a
family in need for
the holidays. Team
members raised
money, purchased
and wrapped gifts,
and hand delivered
Christmas presents
for the entire family.
Mom and her four children appreciated all the team did for them during
the holiday season. What could have been a sad time for her children,
turned out to be a wonderful surprise gaining friendships and sharing of the
Christmas spirit.
Madrigals Featured Guests at
Collegiate A cappella Show
The Reeths-Puffer High School Madrigals were the honored guests at the Allendale
Collegiate ACAPPEL-OFF on January 12. Madrigals opened the college A capella
competition with “Rhythm of Love” featuring soloist Sam Anderson, “Emerald
Stream”, “Shambala”, and the ladies of Madrigals were featured on “Penny Lane.” It
was an exceptional evening as RPHS singers sang alongside the highly entertaining
college A cappella groups from Kalamazoo College, Western Michigan University,
Grand Valley State University, Michigan State University, Valparaiso University,
Albion College, and Central Michigan University. Before the show started, MSU’s
group, Capitol Green, befriended RPHS Madrigals by playing group games together.
After the Madrigals performed, Capitol Green formed a high five tunnel for ReethsPuffer congratulating them on a great performance. Director Mrs. Schlaff said, “It
was such an honor to have the Madrigals invited as the guest artists for this college
event, but the highlight of the event for us was forming a bond with the talented
and friendly group from MSU, Captiol Green. They are so talented, they won the
competition, and are such a good example for our singers!”
Careers Shared at R-PHS Forum
RPHS is a bustling place with a lot of positive energy from both students and staff on
a normal day. On March 5th, RPHS welcomed over 90 professionals from the greater
Muskegon area to speak to students about opportunities beyond the halls of our high
school.
Using Michigan’s Six Career
Pathways as a footprint for
identifying careers in professional
and technical areas, students
attended small group sessions
with professionals from careers
that connected with their IDP
(Individual Development Plan).
Ms. Roxanne Deibel, Coordinator
of the Career Forum, worked
tirelessly to prepare a diverse and
Rachel McEnhill, Assistant Prosecuting
Attorney for Muskegon County speaks to
students about law.
expansive list of speakers for students. With her leadership, the event was well organized
and ran smoothly as students moved from one small group to another. Students were
able to listen in on four different speaker panels and ask questions about the careers
being presented. Some of the information presented included level of pay, level of degree
needed, work week and benefits of the job. Students heard firsthand the need to have
additional education beyond high school and a strong work ethic to move a company
forward as well as to influence their own upward mobility within an organization.
RPHS Choirs Present Pops
Concert, Disney Too!
Rocket Grad Wins
First Race as a Pro
Kyle Johnson (Class of 2012) made his
professional debut in dream-like fashion
by winning the American Motorcycle
Association Flat Track Championship on
March 14th in Daytona, Florida. For the
record, Kyle turned pro earlier this year
becoming Reeths-Puffer’s first professional
motorcycle athlete.
Kyle is a home-grown Rocket. His parents,
Stan and Lisa are Rocket Alumni as well
and his top supporters. They have been instrumental in helping Kyle realize
a dream of becoming a professional in the sport of motorcycle racing.
Reeths-Puffer High School Choirs present
Winning on the national stage was realized during his junior year in high
their annual pops concert…Disney Too!
school when he won a national championship on ice tracks.
on Thursday and Friday, May 16 and 17 at
7:00 p.m. Disney favorites will abound in
this sequel theme show in which the high
school choirs will sing and dance their
hearts out to favorites like: The Lion King,
Aladdin, Enchanted, High School Musical,
Little Mermaid, Tarzan, Mulan, and much
R-PHS Choirs from last year’s “All
more! This is sure to be a family favorite.
That Jazz” pops concert!
Tickets are $5 at the door.
Kyle was not considered a threat to break into the top ten finishers as a
first-time pro racer. It didn’t take long for Kyle to impress the spectators in
winning the Flat Track Championship in Daytona. Mr. Beckeman, high school
principal, was honored to receive an autographed photo of Kyle’s first pro
championship finish! Kyle will travel to California to compete in his next pro
race in May. You can follow Kyle’s next race by accessing the AMA Pro Flat
Track website.
Welcome Class of 2017
9th grade orientation, held in mid-March, brought nearly 500 students and their parents to the Rocket Centre to hear and see what lies
ahead for the class of 2017. The evening began with a presentation from the counseling staff on the scheduling process for next year.
The high school curriculum guide is an interactive tool to help students and their parents gain perspective on the numerous curricular
options available to Rocket students. The guide uses Michigan’s Six Career Pathways to shape decision-making for students as they
consider their future aspirations.
Students were presented with a variety of clubs, sports and other organization opportunities for their consideration when they arrive on
campus in the fall. There’s significant data that indicates the more a student is involved with their school outside of their six classes,
the better they perform academically. A goal at the high school is to have every student involved in at least one co-curricular or extracurricular activity during each year of their four-year high school career.
Staff is excited to get to know the Class of 2017 and looks forward to helping them reach their professional dreams.
Rocket Enterprise
Supports Student Body
REETHS-PUFFER SCHOOLS
End of Year Calendar
The students that sustain Rocket
Enterprise are truly special students!
They work tirelessly on skills that not
only connect with their core learning
objectives, but also with the soft skills
of personal interaction.
Rocket Enterprise is well known for
their popcorn business. They have
purchased their own popcorn machine
and sell the best tasting popcorn to
Left to right: Mrs. Alfredson, Alexis Mosher,
students and staff three days a week.
David Tice, Katelyn Carlson, Mr. Beckeman,
With their earnings, Rocket Enterprise
Katie Wessels, Catherine Bromley, Ms. Gardner students have given back to the
student body in the form of covering
the cost of the High School’s Movie License. This $500.00 license allows the high school to
play many copyright protected movies from most major motion picture companies.
May 24
K-12 AM Only
May 27
K-12 No School – Memorial Day
June 2
Baccalaureate, 2:30 p.m. Rocket Centre
June 3
Senior Awards, 7:00 p.m., Rocket Centre
June 4
Graduation, 7:00 p.m., L. C. Walker Arena
June 6
K-12 AM Only – Last Day for High
School Students
June 7
K-8 AM Only – Last Day of School
2013-2014 School Calendar
September 3
First Day of School (full day)
October 1
K-12 No School – Staff In-Service
November 1
K-12 AM Only – Records Day PM
November 4
9-12 Conferences, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
(School is in Session)
November 6
K-8 Conferences (School is in Session)
K-6 - 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
7-8 - 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
November 7
K-8 AM Only
K-12 Conferences
K-4 - 12:45 to 3:45 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
High School Choirs and Soloists
Qualify for State
5-6 - 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
7-8 - 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
9-12 - 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. (School is in Session 9-12)
November 27
K-12 No School
The Reeths-Puffer High School
November 28 & 29 K-12 No School – Thanksgiving Holiday
Choirs, R-P Madrigals and Vocal
December 23
K-12 No School – Christmas Recess Begins
Fusion, did a terrific job hosting area
January 6
School Resumes
schools from Muskegon and other
January 17
counties on February 9. The ladies
January 20
K-12 No School – Martin Luther King Jr. Day
of Vocal Fusion scored an Excellent
February 14 & 17
K-12 No School – Mid-Winter Break
in Performance with their Japanese
March 12
K-12 No School – Staff In-Service
firefly song, “Hotaru Koi.” The
March 21
Madrigal Men scored a near perfect
March 26
K-12 Conferences (School is in Session)
score with a Superb in Performance
K-6 - 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
with “Poor Wayfaring Stranger”
7-8 - 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
featuring soloist Travis Baisch. The
9-12 - 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
ladies of Madrigals also scored a
March 27
K-8 AM Only
near perfect score with a Superb in
K-8 Conferences
Performance with “Tango to Evora”
K-4 - 12:45 to 3:45 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
5-6 - 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
7-8 - 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
April 4
K-12 No School
April 7-11
K-12 No School – Spring Break
April 18
K-12 AM Only – Good Friday
April 30
K-12 AM Only – Staff In-Service PM
May 26
K-12 No School – Memorial Day
June 5
K-12 AM Only – Last Day for High
School Students
June 6
K-12 AM Only – Last Day of School
Rocket Enterprise also specializes in button-making and bracelets that can be purchased
on popcorn sale days. Our Rocket Enterprise students are hard-working and respectful
young adults who really do a nice job serving others through their business.
We are also thankful for the leadership and support our students receive from Mrs.
Alfredson and Ms. Gardner. They provide the oversight and support for this program and
the students really enjoy working with them. Thanks Mrs. Alfredson and Ms. Gardner!
featuring soloist Anna Beebe. All
three RPHS choirs qualified for
State, April 12 in Big Rapids. The
following soloists qualified for
State with Excellent scores in
Performance: Erin Boersema, Courtney Boersema, D’Marco Hughes, Kaitlyn Reed,
and our foreign exchange student from Vietnam: Kerry Le. Anna Beebe qualified for
State with a Perfect score in Performance.
Congratulations to all of our Rocket Singers and good luck at State!
non-profit org.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
muskegon, MI
PERMIT NO. 669
Reeths-Puffer Schools
991 West Giles Road
Muskegon, MI 49445
leadership team
Steve Edwards
Superintendent
[email protected]
719-3101
***ECRWSS***
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Terri Portice
Director of Teaching and Learning
[email protected]
719-3120
Nadine Harris
Special Education Director
[email protected]
719-3143
Rob Renes
Director of Administrative Services
[email protected]
719-3108
Connie Falbe
Food Service Director
[email protected]
744-1647 x3715
Michael Sluis
Transportation/Maintenance Director
[email protected]
719-0110
Dan Beckeman
High School Principal
[email protected]
744-1647 x3700
Simeon Frang
Middle School Principal
[email protected]
744-4721 x4005
Jim Perreault
Intermediate School Interim Principal
[email protected]
744-9280 x2155
Mike Lyons
Central Elementary Principal
[email protected]
744-1693 x2535
Dawn Schmitt
McMillan Elementary Principal
[email protected]
766-3443 x2605
Paul Klimsza
Reeths-Puffer Elementary Principal
[email protected]
744-4777 x2030
Pam Turner
Twin Lake Elementary Principal
[email protected]
719-3190
Jami Young
Pennsylvania Elementary Site Director
719-3159
2013 ROCKET CUP
2013 Rocket Cup Golf Outing to support
Rocket Football and Hockey is scheduled
for Friday, June 14 at Lincoln Golf Club.
Check-in is at noon with a shotgun start
at 1:00 p.m. For more information or to
register your team call (231) 719-1247.
Board of
Education
Kim Kelly, President
[email protected]
Mike Weessies,
Vice-President
[email protected]
Bob DeMuro, Secretary
[email protected]
HOOPS FOR
HEART
Mary Schaab, Treasurer
[email protected]
They jumped! They shot!
They scored! Students at RPI
joined in the March Madness
fun by raising money for the
American Heart Association through
participation in the Hoops for Heart program. The American Heart
Association teaches children and adults how to take care of their hearts.
They also fund research to find what causes heart disease and stroke and
what we can do to prevent it. Sierra Jinkerson was the top donator; with
RPI raising over $600.00.
Doug Brown, Trustee
[email protected]
help support ROCKET CITY USA
May 20, 2013
June 10, 2013
To become an advertising sponsor in future editions of the Rocket City USA,
call Mark Williamson at (231) 766-3038 or email [email protected].
Kathy Zahl, Trustee
[email protected]
Susan Blackburn, Trustee
[email protected]
_____________________
regular board
meetings:

File - Go Rocket City

Transcription

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