School Matters Fall 2011

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP SEMIFINALIST • PAGE 4

D Y N A M I C P L A N N I N G U P D AT E • F O C U S G R O U P S • D E C . 8

School MattersFALL 2011

Backstage @ the Matt Giraud show!

MATT GIRAUD& the Sweet J Band the PPAC!rock

Dynamic Planning to guide Plainwell Community Schools into the next decade and beyond is underway by Plainwell staff and community members. Focus Groups will be held in order for staff, parents and the community to have an even larger impact on these sessions and to assist with achieving the final goals. All sessions will be held in the High School Media Center.

f o r o u rFuturePreparing

FutureForward

t o o u r1:00 - Parents & Community Members • 3:00 - PCS Staff Members4:15 - PCS Staff Members • 5:30 - Parents & Community MembersTHURSDAY, DECEMBER 8

Plainwell Community Schools Performing Arts Center was host to a special one-night only concert with Kalamazoo’s American Idol alum, Matt Giraud.

Matt performed an evening of celebration and song on Saturday, November 12 at 7:00 p.m. in observance of the Performing Arts Center’s one year anniversary. Matt’s band, the Sweet J Band, backed him and Plainwell High School’s Concert Choir joined them on stage for two special songs toward the end of the evening.

The concert was a benefit for Plainwell’s Performing Arts Program.

Kalamazoo’s Own American Idol, Matt Giraud!

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

S U P E R I N T E N D E N T ’ S V I E W P O I N T

by Susan Wakefield, Superintendent

We have been working on our Dynamic Planning process for the past several

months and it is now well underway. The purpose of this work is to provide the forum for community members and PCS staff to articulate our community’s educational goals for the next five years. The entire pro-cess has been organized by an impartial facilitator who will guide our com-munity through this im-portant work. There are several com-ponents to this work. Our facilitator, Kay Cornell, was hired by the Board of Education last spring to guide us through this pro-cess. Kay has since met with the Board of Educa-tion twice to discuss the process and most recent-ly, to listen to the Board members’ hopes and fears regarding this process and the possibilities that they believe Dynamic Planning holds. While the Board of Educa-tion plays an important role, Board mem-bers will not be attending the large group forum meetings. Their job will be to review and approve what comes forth from this work rather than do the actual work. A group of approximately 50 staff and community members have already had a couple of meetings. These folks filled out an application last month to be a part of this group. They have committed their time

and efforts for four days in November and I am grateful for their willingness to par-ticipate. For staff and community mem-bers who are not participating in the large group, there will be meetings for everyone who wants to be included in this process. Kay will be facilitating Focus Groups at our

high school library on De-cember 8. Specific times are listed in this newsletter and there is no need to register or RSVP. We’re just happy to have you join us. Dynamic Planning may seem to be a routine task to be done every few years; but that’s an over-simplified perspective given all the po-tential possibilities. There is a wide range of talents and needs among our students, a variety of priorities among constituents, and many de-mands being placed on pub-lic education. We will need

to be visionary in our discussions and make our best projections as to what our students will need for their futures and how we can best meet those needs. I can’t think of a better time to come to-gether as a community and to set our sights on becoming an extraordinary educational system - one which serves our students well and enriches all of our lives. n

For Our Future... CALENDARof EVENTS

December 2HALF DAY (K-12)

December 19-30HOLIDAY RECESS

January 2HOLIDAY RECESS

February 13HALF DAY (K-12)

February 20NO SCHOOL - Teacher

Professional Development

March 5NO SCHOOL -

MID-WINTER BREAK

March 6NO SCHOOL (K-10/12)

Grade 11 ACTK-12 Teacher Professional

Development

March 14HALF DAY (K-12)

End of 2nd Trimester

March 30NO SCHOOL

SPRING RECESS

“

“We will need to be visionary in our discussions and make our best projections as to what our students will need for their futures...

from Plainwell Community Schools

W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G 3

F O C U S O N C U R R I C U L U M

by Bob VanDis, Director of Curriculum

The recently graduated Class of 2011 was the first group of students in Michigan

to have to meet the rigorous Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) requirements for a high school diploma. Students are now required to earn 16 credits in the following subjects and courses to graduate from high school:

• 4 Credits of English• 4 Credits of Mathematics that must include Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2• 3 Credits of Social Studies that must include World History and Geography, United States History and Geography, Economics, and Government. Plainwell requires 3.5 credits since our US History and Ge-ography class is a three-trimester 1.5 credit course.• 3 Credits of Science that must in-clude Biology, Chemistry or Physics, and one additional course. Plainwell requires 3.5 credits since our stu-dents earn at least .5 credit of both Chemistry and Physics. We also re-quire Earth Science as the required additional course.• 1 Credit of Health and Physical Education• 1 Credit of Visual, Applied, and Performing Arts

When this law was first passed in the

spring of 2006, many people feared that the Class of 2011, who would be entering 8th grade that coming fall, would not be able to meet these rigorous requirements and that large numbers of students would drop out of high school. But those people were wrong. We did not see a dramatic increase in drop outs between the Class of 2010 (the last year with low graduation requirements) and

the Class of 2011 (the first year of the new MMC requirements). Of the few students who did not graduate on time, at least half of them are still in school as 5th year seniors completing their graduation requirements. Also, many people back in 2006, did not believe that almost all students could pass such elite courses as Biology, Algebra 2, Economics, or World History. Again, those people were wrong. This law, which so many people first thought of as unfair, actually was based on a foundation of fairness and equal-ity for all. The rigorous curriculum that we previously provided for only our most able, college bound students should now be pro-vided to everyone. A rigorous high school curriculum prepares students for many col-lege and career opportunities, and those op-

portunities should be open to everyone. There are three groups of heroes in this story of increased rigor and achievement. First, the students who rose to the chal-lenge of working harder and passing these rigorous classes. Second, the parents who supported their students. Third, the teach-ers who rose to the multiple challenges of redesigning their courses to meet the new requirements, adopting new techniques to teach difficult subjects to all students, and devoting extra time to giving students mul-tiple opportunities to relearn material and to repeat failed courses – thus getting them back on track to graduate. In addition to these MMC requirements, students currently in 8th grade, the Class of 2016, must earn 2 credits of a world lan-guage to graduate. We have been building up our middle school language program for the past several years so that students can earn 1 credit of a language in 8th grade, which allows them to get an early start on this additional requirement. Currently, we have 178 students or 79% of our 8th grade class taking Spanish 1 or French 1. Plain-well students will be able to meet this new requirement the same way they met the original MMC requirements: through their own perseverance and hard work; the sup-port of their parents; and the guidance, commitment, and quality instruction of their teachers. n

State Raises Bar for Students to Pass the MEAP

In an effort to fight “test score inflation,” the Michigan Department of Education has recalibrated the MEAP cut scores. The term “cut score” refers to the percent of questions a student needs to get right in order to pass the test. The previous passing score for

MEAP tests were set at a very basic level – sufficient for a basic trade in our old manufacturing economy. For example, last year, a 3rd grade student could pass the MEAP Math Test if he got 34% of the questions correct. The result of that was that 95% of Michigan 3rd graders passed the MEAP Math test. The new cut scores are set at a more advanced level to reflect the higher levels of academic proficiency needed for students to thrive in the advanced manufacturing and information economy of today. For example, if the new cut scores were applied to last year’s MEAP Math Test referenced above, a student would need to get 72% of the questions correct to pass. With the new, higher standard applied, only 35% of last year’s 3rd graders in the state would have passed. Before MEAP results are sent home this winter, the district will be sending a letter to parents that will explain the cut score change. This letter will also alert them to the fact that some students who passed MEAP last year may not pass this year due to the new, high-er cut scores being applied. More information on this topic may be found in the “What’s New” section at www.michigan.gov/meap

Class of 2011 First to Meet Rigorous Michigan Merit Curriculum Graduation Requirements

““The rigorous curriculum

should now be provided to everyone...


H I G H S C H O O L N E W S

Three Lady Trojans to Play Division One Sports

Plainwell Community Schools is proud to announce that three Lady Trojans have committed to play Division 1 sports. Alyssa

Davis, daughter of Carolann and Paul Davis, will be playing volley-ball at Eastern Michigan University. Lauren Saar, daughter of Rene and Brad Saar, has committed to play volleyball at Georgetown University. Hannah Lewis, daughter of Trish and Bart Lewis, will be golfing and attending Bowling Green State University. These three Lady Trojans are powerful students as well. Each holds a GPA over 4.0 and have scored 30 on the ACT. They are an impressive trio.

Plainwell High School Student Named National Merit

Scholarship Semifinalist

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) has an-

nounced the names of approxi-mately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 57th annual National Merit Schol-arship Program. Plainwell High School’s Ashley Correa is among those selected to compete for some 8,300 scholarships worth more than $34 million that will be offered next spring. The nationwide pool of Semifinal-ists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. From these 16,000 Semifinalists, ap-proximately 15,000 are expected to advance to the Finalist level in February and more than half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship. Finalists will be an-nounced in the spring of 2012.

FYI: Plainwell High School Medical Emergency Team

Pictured are, Top row (L to R): Suzanne Tyria, Andrew Hansen, Jeremy Wright, Rich Luczak, Christopher Taylor, Melanie Carpenter. Bottom row (L to R): Samantha Newell, Sarah Boven, Deb Burley, Marilyn Hess and Doug White. Not pictured: Larry Ash and Craig Archer.

The Plainwell High School Medical Emergency Team is on its 3rd year as a group of in-dividuals who assist in any type of medical or safety issue at the high school. The group

was developed out of need for helping students who are hurt. “The Medical Emergency team is a very trained, organized and responsive team,” Deb Burley, team member, said of the 12-person team that represents all employee groups at the high school in various physi-cal locations around the school. The group also conducts “lessons learned” meetings after an incident to further hone their skills. n

Plainwell

Christmas Project

December 16 & 17“A Holiday Tradition”


Gary J. Barton Named Interim Plainwell

Middle School Principal

M I D D L E S C H O O L N E W S

Plainwell Middle School Science Students Receive Netbooks

Plainwell Middle School students were thrilled last week to receive netbooks for use in science class -

and teachers are excited to have a new way to deliver the science curriculum. Using today’s technology, the netbooks are interactive tools which enable the stu-dents to take notes, highlight text, perform online ex-periments and save their files. Teachers can forward assignments and tasks directly to the students, which they complete and return for credit, without using any paper. Another plus of the netbooks is universal access. The online textbook can read aloud to spe-cial needs students while allowing gifted students ad-vancement as they are capable. Utilizing a new wire-

less network to integrate all the netbooks, students have the freedom to move around the classroom and remain connected. Plainwell Middle School science teacher Marty Green says, “We are up in front of our community with this technology. It keeps the classroom connected to the real world and challenges the students to learn more about earth science and the weather as it happens. We have kids come in saying, ‘Did you hear about the earthquake?’ and I can direct them to open their netbook and go right to the N.O.A.A. (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) or U.S.G.S. (United States Geological Survey) website to find out more information.”

Greetings Plainwell Families, I am honored to serve the students, staff and parents of Plainwell Community Schools as Interim Middle School Principal. My background is in corporate management and educational ad-ministration. I started my career in education as a high school and middle school history teacher. I have been the principal of several middle schools and have taught graduate students at the university level. I have a sincere passion for life-long learning and staying current on the latest research and best practices in education, staff development and leadership. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Michigan University. My Master of Arts degree and Specialist in Education degree are from Western Michigan University. I am certified in Michigan as a K-12 principal and central office administrator. My commitment has always been to work enthusiastically to provide a caring, creative and positive learning environment for students and staff. I have an open door policy and look forward to meeting students, staff and parents as soon as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. I look forward to a great school year at Plainwell Middle School.

Sincerely,Gary BartonInterim PrincipalPlainwell Middle School

Plainwell Middle School’s Student Council participated in a new community service project this year, Rake-n-Run. Over twenty Student Council members volunteered

their time to give back to the community on Wednesday by raking yards in our commu-nity. Eighth grade Student Council member, Elizabeth Miller said, “I felt really good about doing Rake-n-Run because I served my community, even though it was really cold.” A special thanks to all of the students, teachers, and parents that helped make Rake-n-Run a success. n

Student Council

shows that giving back is fun!


E L E M E N TA R Y S C H O O L N E W S G I L K E Y • C O O P E R • S T A R R

RENAISSANCE HIGH SCHOOLTammy Glupker - all school field trip to Shedd Aquarium

HIGH SCHOOLDarlene Kohn – math graphic calculatorsJason Grubaugh, Steven Cramer – tennis equipmentMarilyn Hess – MIPA summer camp at MSURick Norey – build a robot advanced design proj-ect

MIDDLE SCHOOLAnastasia Harnden – world language/ voice CD playerCathy Maurer, Jackie Warners – brown bag book clubMaggie McGregor – greenhouse flowerbedsMelissa Garrett – iPad 2 special education independenceNancy Heath – iPad 2 special education independenceTerri Norey – Four Bs model flag

COOPER ELEMENTARYDeb Phaneuf – listening centerLaura Adams – exercise ball chairsKelly Thompke, Shelly Widman, Deb Phaneuf – Handwriting without Tears

GILKEY ELEMENTARYDeb Agne – Imagine It! Storytime CollectionKatie Johnson – listening centerChris Stevens – individual student white boardsTammie Vick – Music Theory Made FunJane Schroder, Geri Macklin – bin of booksTanya Miller, Jennifer Stell, Aaron Maybee – Time for KidsTanya Miller, Jane Schroder, Chris Stevens, Anne Hartman – CD Players for Reading In-tervention

STARR ELEMENTARYKristen Fillar – learning blocks rugPat Guldenzoph – Music Theory Made FunNatalie Knight – exercise ball chairsJohn Pettit – mileage clubRene Perrin – drum pads, sticks & standsJackie VandeStreek – traveling art exhibit

Plainwell Education FoundationDistributes Mini-Grants

The Plainwell Education Foundation has awarded their yearly mini-grants to 32 Plainwell educators who will use the funds to enhance their students’ classroom learn-

ing, extracurricular activities and field trips. Awarding mini-grants is an annual project for the local foundation which is celebrating its 12th year.

Front Row (L to R): Pat Guldenzoph, Darlene Kohn, Tammy Glupker, Kristen Fillar, Kelly Thompke, Jackie Warners, Marilyn Hess, AnnaLee VanAtter (Plainwell Education Foundation)Back Row (L to R): Karen Gustafson (Plainwell Education Foundation), John Pettit, Deb Phaneuf, Deb Scooneas, Bill Stouffer, Jackie Vandestreek, Rene Perrin, Melissa Garrett, Steve Cramer

At the start of the school year

Honeywell had made some

changes that allowed all of the

phone numbers used to be pulled

from our student information sys-

tem. The change was made so that

parents only had to report a change

of phone number to school office

personnel and the change would

then automatically be made in

Honeywell. With that change came

some unforeseen issues that made

it difficult for many families to mod-

ify phone numbers and the times

the phone calls were received. We

have been discussing these issues

with Honeywell and have decided

that it worked better for the major-

ity of our families to change back

and have the parents register their

Honeywell accounts and add their

own information. To find directions

on how to make those changes, vis-

it our website at plainwellschools.

org and click on the Honeywell Info

Sheet under “Changes in Honey-

well.” This will allow you to go in

and register and customize your in-

formation to fit your needs. We are

sorry for the inconvenience, but we

are confident that this change will

be a positive change in our commu-

nication between school and home.

NOTICE:HONEYWELLCHANGES


E L E M E N TA R Y S C H O O L N E W S G I L K E Y • C O O P E R • S T A R R

MARIE LARSONMy name is Marie Larson and I am heading up the Kinder-garten Readiness program at Starr Elementary. I am origi-nally from Richland, Michi-gan and a recent graduate

of Western Michigan University. I have had a great first year teaching at Plainwell! I am thankful for a supportive staff and group of in-telligent and eager learners!

KRISTENPENNINGTONMy name is Kristen Pen-nington and I am loving my experience here in Plainwell! This is my 5th year teaching, but my first time teaching 4th

grade. It is so much fun! I have taught for three years near Grand Rapids, and also for one year in Gobles, Michigan. I graduated from Western Michigan University and am currently working on my Masters at Cornerstone University. I am so thankful to be working with such positive, collaborative and kid-loving people at Starr Elementary!

JENNIFER FAZIOHello, my name is Jennifer Fazio. I have lived in the Coo-per/Plainwell area for more than ten years and am a par-ent of high school and middle school students. I graduated

from Hope College. After teaching at a local preschool for almost 10 years, I was thrilled to accept the challenge of teaching reading at a first grade level. I am enjoying every moment!

NOEL MUSELINHi, my name is Noel Muse-lin. This is my 5th year teach-ing. I previously taught 3rd, 4th and 5th grades at Gales-burg-Augusta Community Schools. I am thrilled to be

teaching at Gilkey Elementary this year and look forward to having fun and exciting learn-ing opportunities with my 4th grade class!

PETE CAMPBELLMy name is Pete Campbell and I am off to a fantastic start in my first year teaching at Starr Elementary. I recent-ly graduated from Western Michigan University’s Special

Education program in April 2011. Teaching 4th grade at Starr Elementary has been amaz-ing! It has wonderful students, staff and admin-istrators that have made my first year teaching both memorable and effective!

CRAIG ARCHERMy name is Craig Archer and I come to Plainwell Commu-nity Schools after graduating from Concordia University as an Academic All-Ameri-can basketball player. I teach

Social Studies at the High School. I am im-mensely loving my time at Plainwell and find the staff, students and community to be won-derful. I was just married on August 5th of this year and I and my wife, Kelly, expect to be very involved within the school and community.

MARIE TEITGENI am Marie Teitgen. I am a graduate of Plainwell Commu-nity Schools. I came up through Starr Elementary and graduated in 1995. I am teaching in one of the same middle school class-

rooms where I was a student. I am teaching 8th grade Spanish and English, as well as 7th grade Zon/Chinese. I have been enjoying the students immensely and am looking forward to a great year!

KATIE JOHNSONMy name is Katie Johnson and I taught previously for 11 years at Brandon Elementary in Martin. I left Martin as a first grade teacher and joined the Plainwell staff teaching

first grade at Gilkey Elementary. I am settling in nicely with my new “family” here in Plain-well. The staff, students and parents have made the transition an easy one. I look forward to a great future here in Plainwell!

CHRISTOPHER STEVENSHello, my name is Christo-pher Stevens and this is my 5th year teaching and my first year teaching 5th grade at Gilkey Elementary. I went to

Grand Valley and I come from the east side of the state. My wife and I have been married for 4 years and we have 1 daughter. I previously taught 4th grade at Steeby Elementary in Way-land. I love teaching here and the start of my first year is going great.

ANNA HOZAKMy name is Anna Hozak and I am from Battle Creek, Michigan. I went to Michi-gan State...GO GREEN! I taught in Battle Creek Public for 15 years...5 years at 3rd

grade, 5 years at 6th grade and the last 5 years 5th and 6th. I had my only child at 40 and stopped teaching to stay at home with him. He is in 9th grade at Plainwell and I am teaching 2nd grade in the same classroom my son was in when he was in the 2nd grade.

MARCELLE MARCELLETTIHello! My name is Marcelle Marcelletti and I like to play board games with my hus-band and friends in Holland. I play string bass in the Hol-land Symphony Orchestra

and sing in my church choir. I graduated with a B.S. in Physics from DePaul University and have an M.Ed from GVSU. I am teaching Physics and Math in the High School. Before coming to Plainwell, I taught in Grand Rapids Public Schools for five years. Before teaching, I was a quality engineer in the plastics industry.

Meet the New Teachers of Plainwell Community Schools

We’d also like to welcome Anna Kruizenga, Michael Woodward and Bill Stouffer to Plainwell Community Schools!


C O M M U N I T Y E D U C AT I O N & R E C R E A T I O N

A NOTE FROM THE RECREATION DIRECTOR:

The 2011 Plainwell Triathlon

The 2011 Plainwell Triathlon was a sprint level triathlon. Racers swam 500 yards, biked 11 miles and ran a 5k. There were 26 participants, most as individuals, and a few relay

teams. Some were triathlon veterans, and others were first-timers. Funds raised will go to-ward equipment and scholarships for Community Recreation. Many people hear that I like to do triathlons and tell me “I’d like to do that some day.” One of my goals as Community Recreation Director is to get adults in the community, not just kids, up and moving! I thought by hosting a small, informal triathlon here we could introduce people to multi-sort racing and raise some money for a great cause at the same time. One woman who had some health issues felt that she’d never be able to do something this physically demanding, but she signed up anyway. Through the course of her training, she lost over 40 pounds and completed the triathlon with a huge smile on her face! An-other gentleman lost over 30 pounds during training. Tyler White, a very successful varsity athlete here in Plainwell told me, “I really feel like I accomplished something today.” Scott Evans, a High School teacher and Track/Cross Country coach won the entire event. Next year, Tristan Comerford, another successful varsity athlete promises to not get lost and win! All in all it was a great success!

– Jason Herbert

A Gift for

Program

From

Date

Plainwell Community Education & Recreation

4 2 2 A C O R N S T R E E T • P L A I N W E L L , M I C H I G A N • 6 8 5 - 9 5 3 1

A Gift for

Program

From

Date



A Gift for

Program

From

Date




Gift Certificates

Pho

tos/B

ecky Ho

wrig

on

Perfect for Everyone on your Holiday List!

Contact the Community Education Officetoday at 685-9531.

Plainwell’s First Triathlon was a huge success!

YOUTHrecreation

BASKETBALL SKILLS CAMPK - 6th Grade This program is open to students K-6th grade. Each Saturday, the same pool of players will be di-vided up differently. Phone call reminders will not be made. Please attend the practice on March 5th at the assigned time for your grade level.March 3 - April 21, 2012 • Saturdays(No camp on April 2 and April 9, due to Spring Break)K, 1st & 2nd Grade • 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. 3rd & 4th Grade • 10:30 a.m. to Noon5th & 6th Grade • 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.Location: Plainwell High SchoolCost: $55.00 $40.00 Gun Plain Township residents ONLYInstructors: Larry Ash / John PettitYou must preregister, NO sign-ups at Camp. Registration Deadline is Monday, February 20, 2012. $15 late fee will be added to any late registrations. Late registrations will not be accepted after February 27, 2012

TOYS, BUGS, MAGIC…OH MY!This fun filled, hands-on Mad Science after

school program is sure to amaze all! Chil-dren aren’t the only ones with the energy to play, their toys are packed with it, too! Chil-dren will discover the science behind some

of their favorite toys in this fun-packed program! Oh and did we mention Magic? They’ll learn the secrets behind famous magic that they can recreate for them-selves! Mother Nature has some tricks of her own, and we’d like to show them what’s up her sleeve!Grades: K - 5Cooper: Feb. 3 – Mar. 17, 2012 (Thurs.) *no class Mar. 3 Time: 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Location: Room #A130 (Science Room)

Gilkey: Feb. 2 – Mar. 16, 2012 (Wed.) *no class Mar. 2 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Location: Room #100 (Science Room)

Starr: Feb. 1 - Mar. 15, 2012 (Tues.) *no class Mar. 1 3:40 p.m. to 4:40 p.m. Location: Room #111 (Science Room)Cost: $75.00 Registration can be done on-line at www.madscience.org/kalamazoo or call (269) 978-8543 or mail registra-tion form to Mad Science, P.O. Box 331, Oshtemo, MI 49077. Registration Deadline is Monday, January 30, 2012

FATHER/DAUGHTERVALENTINE DANCEThe date is Saturday, Feb. 4th from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Plainwell Middle School. Watch for fliers coming home in January; or in-formation on the website www.plainwellschools.org or feel free to call us at (269) 685-9531.

Sponsored by Plainwell Community Schools and Gun Plain Township


C O M M U N I T Y E D U C AT I O N & R E C R E A T I O N

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY& IMAGE EDITING This program is for the beginner to intermediate photogra-phers. Topics will include the following; (Beginners) camera functions, terminology, and composition. (Intermediate) work flow, image editing, lighting, and discussions for all on what is the right equipment for you. We will talk about how to utilize social networking sites, online print labs, and proper storage of your files, including how to keep them safe. In this digital age, it is easy to get left behind! We will get you up to speed. Please bring your gear, your camera manual (if you have them) and an open mind. This course will be taught by Sean Newton. Sean works as a freelance photographer who specializes in action sports, nature, and photo manipulation. www.seannewton-photography.com If you are looking to get more out of your photos and you want to find the best ways of sharing them with your family, friends and the world, this is the class for you. Date: January 30 – February 8, 2012 (Mon. & Wed.)Time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Location: Plainwell High SchoolCost: $55.00 Instructor: Sean NewtonRegistration deadline is Monday, January 23, 2012.

CPR / FIRST AID CPR / First Aid Certification offered with an American Heart Association certified instructor. Participants will work on adult, child, and infant mannequins to meet the MIOSHA regulations. We can only take 10 participants so sign up early.Date: January 14 & 21, 2012 (Saturdays) 2 weeksTime: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.Location: Plainwell Community Education, 422 Acorn St. in the Industrial ParkCost: $20.00 Renewing License, $30.00 First TimeInstructor: Dave KuitertRegistration Deadline is January 6, 2012.

CAREER FITNESSA different type of well being! Participants will be able to use the information presented to discern their best career fit in this ever-changing time of career decisions and options. You will learn to explore your individual interests, values, traits and abilities and provide tools to determine your career pathway. For this student/parent workshop; the fees include both partici-pants as the resources will be used by the student and shared with the parent.Date: Jan. 16 – Jan. 23, 2012 (Mondays) 2 WeeksTime: 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.Location: Plainwell Community Education, 422 Acorn St. in the Industrial ParkCost: $50 per participant CHECKS MUST BE MADE OUT TO: RIVERWOODS CONSULTING (this includes student & parent as one participant. Also includes one Career Pointer Book, addi-tional books will be available for $10.00)Instructor: Liz JonesRegistration Deadline is January 9, 2012.

WRITERS WORKSHOP Do you ever feel that you have an interesting story bouncing around your cranium just dying to get out? Maybe you just need a creative outlet at the end of a long work day? Whatever your reason(s), come join the Tuesday night Plainwell Commu-nity Writers Group. We would love to have you. Using “Open Office Software” you will learn computer basics,word process-ing, power-point, formatting, importing clip art and other tricks of the trade: all levels of experience accepted, beginners en-couraged.Date: Jan. 10 – Jan. 31, 2012 (Tuesdays) 4 WeeksTime: 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.Location: Plainwell Community Education, 422 Acorn St. in the Industrial ParkCost: $ 30.00Instructor: Stephen SissionRegistration Deadline is January 5, 2012.

LEVEL 1 HOOP FITNESS/DANCEWelcome to Silver Hoop Groove Fitness/Dance – the hottest new fitness trend – incorporating FUN, technique, and weight-loss. Hooping is a fat-burning workout that incredibly strength-ens your core, and calms your mind. Hooping is a no impact exercise using a larger custom made hoop that weighs about 1½ lbs. You can burn between 300 to 600 calories an hour. It has fantastic emotional and physical benefits. It is a total body workout. It reshapes your entire body. You cannot be in a hoop without feeling good and smiling. Each move you learn, builds a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Level One and Level Two is being offered together (Level Two is incorporating upper body). Please feel free to read Lisa’s blog at silverhulahoop-dance.wordpress.com or Facebook page at Silver Hoop Groove.Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.Cost: $45 per Session (hoops available to use at no charge) Hoops available to purchase for $20 at class1st Session Jan. 9 – Feb. 6 - Mondays 2nd Session Feb. 20 – Mar. 26 - Mondays (not meeting on Mar. 5th)Instructor: Lisa Silver, Certified Hoopnotica InstructorRegistration Deadline is January 5, 2012.

LOVE & LOGIC (Parenting Classes)Love and Logic is a philosophy founded by Jim Fay and Foster W. Cline, M.D., and based on the experience of a combined total of over 75 years working with and raising kids. Many parents want their kids to be well prepared for life, and they know this means kids will make mistakes and must be held accountable for those mistakes. Love and Logic provides simple and easy to use techniques to help parents have more fun and less stress while raising responsible kids of all ages. Date: Jan. 19 – Mar. 1, 2012 (Thursdays) 6 weeksThere will not be any classes the week of Feb. 9thTime: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.Location: Plainwell Community Education, 422 Acorn St. in the Industrial ParkCost: $ 45.00 (this will include the workbook)Instructor: Martha HymerRegistration Deadline is January 10, 2012.

CROSS/FIT TRAINING It’s a new year and it’s time to get in the best shape of your life. Whether you are looking to tone up, bulk up, beast up or just push yourself physically, CrossFit is the program for you.

CrossFit provides a challenging, high-intensity, high-energy workout that uses functional, whole-body movement to give you the best workout you’ve ever had. No matter what your current shape is, every workout is modifiable and scaled so ev-eryone is challenged safely. Our community of fitness will help motivate and congratulate your success. So, come guarantee yourself of that New Year’s resolution and join a truly unique fitness program. Date: Jan. 3 – Feb. 9, 2012 (Tues. & Thurs.) 6 weeksTime: 6:00p.m. - 7:00p.m.Location: Plainwell High School Weight Room (park in the back of PHS)Cost: $ 35.00Instructor: Chase MielkeRegistration Deadline is December 12 , 2011.

TECHNOLOGY S.O.S Do you sometimes feel like all the technological devices, pro-grams, and toys have left you in the last century?!? In this workshop, you can learn how to: text, Facebook, use MP3 play-ers and digital music, e-mail (with attachments and pictures!) and use various computer software programs. The class can be designed around you...the participants! Date: Jan. 30 – Feb. 8, 2012 (Mon. & Wed.) 2 weeksTime: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.Location: Starr Elementary – Computer LabCost: $ 30.00Instructor: Meggin VerduzcoRegistration Deadline is January 23, 2012.

INDOOR WALKINGIf Plainwell Community Schools are closed for any reason this program will be canceled that day. (Class will be running on time if the school system has a fog delay) Indoor walking will go through May 23, 2012. Location: Hicks Street GymCost: FREEAdults Only – Monday, Wednesday & Friday Time: 10:00 to 10:45 a.m.Family – Tuesday & ThursdayTime: 9:00 to 10:00 a.m.

SENIOR CITIZENSEnhanced Fitness Class: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday, 9:00 - 9:45 a.m. at Hicks Gym, located at 311 Hicks St. Call Kathy Russell at 685-0700.

Euchre, Singles or Doubles: Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m., Plainwell Community Center, 798 Bridge St. Donations appreciated.

Sponsored by Plainwell Community Schools and Gun Plain Township

ADULTrecreation

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

Name ___________________________________________________ Township ____________________

Address _______________________________________ City ______________________ Zip __________

Child’s Age _________________ Grade student will be going into _____________________

Parents Name ________________________________________ Phone ____________________________

Email ________________________________________________________________________________

Activity _______________________________________ Session # __________________ Time ________



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

CONTACTS:Community Ed. & Recreation 685-9531 Tammy Glupker, Director 685-1573Pool Information 685-2425 Jason Herbert, Recreation 685-9531Renaissance High School 685-1573


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

Plainwell High School Taking Nominations

for 2012 AthleticHall of Fame

Nominations are now being ac-cepted from staff, alumni, fans

and community members for selec-tion and induction into the Plain-well High School Athletic Hall of Fame, Class of 2012. Criteria and categories for nomi-nees are: Plainwell High School Stu-dent Athlete, Plainwell High School Coach, and Plainwell High School Community Member. Please mail nominations and sup-porting materials by Friday, March 16, 2012 to: Dave Price, Director of Athletics, Plainwell High School, 684 Starr Road, Plainwell, Michi-gan, 49080.

Plainwell Celebrates2011 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees

2011-12 Wolverine All-Conference and Fall Sports Team HonorsPLAINWELL TROJANS

On Wednesday, October 12th, the 2011 Hall of Fame induction banquet was held at Lake Doster Country Club. This year’s inductees include four former athletes,

one Trojan teacher/staffer and a former Trojan teacher/coach. The inductees were also introduced at the October 14th football game during the pre-game ceremonies. The 2011 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees are (from L): athlete Edwin “Bill” Carpenter, teacher/staffer Darlene (Shivley) Kohn, athlete Kristie (Tien) Manning, teacher/coach Irv Figel, athlete John “Jock” Streidl and athlete Bill Astle.

Photo/Walt Kaechele

FALL TEAM HONORS

Volleyball Conference ChampionsMHSAA Class B District ChampionsMHSAA Class B Regional Champions

Girls Golf Conference ChampionsMHSAA Division 3 Regional ChampionsMHSAA State Qualifiers (finished 9th at state)MIGCA Academic All-State Team (GPA 3.77)

Boys Soccer MHSAA District Champions

Girls Swimming Conference ChampionsMHSAA Division III - 3rd Place

Girls Cross Country Conference ChampionsMHSAA State Finals – Team Qualifier

Football MHSAA Division 4 Playoff QualifierMHSAA Division 4 District Finalist

WOLVERINE ALL-CONFERENCE • 2011-2012

SPORT 1st Team 2nd Team Honorable Mention

Boys Soccer Zach RushElliot Loftus

Brandon KikRyan PellNick Jones

JD Nord

Volleyball Lauren SaarAlyssa DavisKerry SwainCarly NieboerMegan Schneider

Melanie HyamesHannah Varley

Coach of the Year: Carolann Davis

Girls Swimming Lindsay WiederholdMallory ComerfordKim JonesBlair CornellAudrey VanderboonTeresa ThielAaryn Jewell

Football Jack ConklinCJ Hillstead

Jason McCauslinPete Gonzalez

Chance TerryJoey VandenBergRiley HortonCaleb VanGoeyeTrever Predum

Girls Cross Country

Makenzie EversChloe ThielHaley BettsOriana BenincasaCara Minto

Coach of the Year: Glenn Beier

Girls Golf Hannah LewisErika HavenaarDarby Wagner

Hadley Harrison

Coach of the Year: Bart Lewis


C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

SAFE and Plainwell Corners PreschoolWe are off to a great start! Are you trying to decide how to balance an awesome preschool experience for your child at a terrific daycare while you work? Are you a parent needing just a few hours a week? Plainwell Corners has the answer for you. Whether you want to enroll your child for the school calendar year or for the whole year we can meet your needs. Check us out!

Plainwell Corners Preschool & Daycare: Prepares your child for success! A preschool offering a developmentally appropriate and fun cur-riculum (which includes Handwriting Without Tears) designed for toliet-trained children who are 3 or four years old. Open Monday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Early Childhood Education Center at 307 E. Plainwell Street (next to Hicks Gym) for a $135 weekly rate or $37

daily rate. Now offering a half day (9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.) rate. Half day sessions for 3-year-olds are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays for $125/monthly. Half day sessions for 4-year-olds are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays for $180/monthly. Licensed under Hicks SAFE.

SAFE: A before and after school program providing a place to make friends and enjoy recreational activities, available for children from all 3 Plainwell Elementary schools. Open weekdays from 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Cooper SAFE will be held at Cooper. Gilkey and Starr SAFE meet at their own schools in the morning and are combined at Starr in the afternoon. Rates are posted online.

2011 Trojan Homecoming King & Queen

The Plainwell student body selected Jack Conklin, the son of Darren Conklin and Jennifer Conklin and Megan Zimont, the daughter of Ben and Kathy Zimont, to rule over the 2011 Homecoming festivities on Friday, October 7th.

Pho

to/B

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wrig

on

Congratulations to our Trojan Marching Band on a Great Season!

Otsego Band Invitational: 1st Place and Best MusicCedar Springs Band Invitational: 4th Place Tie and Best Color Guard

MSBOA District XI Band Festival: Division I (Superior) RatingGrandville Band Invitational: 2nd Place and Best Color Guard

Jenison Band Invitational: 1st Place and Best Marching, Best ColorGuard, Best Percussion

Check us out on the Plainwell Schools website and click the Parents section. www.plainwellschools.org or call 269.685.3103 for more information.

We accept DHS payments and are approved for Flex reimbursement.

PLAINWELL HIGH SCHOOL 2011-2012 WINTER SPORTS SCHEDULE

THE PLAINWELL COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICTIS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

** ECRWSS **Postal Customer

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

Published by the Plainwell Board of Education, Plainwell, Michigan 49080

www.plainwellschools.org

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION OFFICES • 685-5823Susan Wakefield .....................................................SuperintendentBob Van Dis ............................Director of Curriculum & InstructionPatricia Carr ......................................................Director of Finance Jeff McNutt ................................................. Director of Technology Greg Smith ...................... Director of Operations & Transportation

Board of EducationAmy Blades ......................................................................... PresidentJennifer Loftus ............................................................. Vice PresidentKevin Blue ........................................................................... Treasurer John Nyberg ........................................................................SecretaryAl Moeller .................................................................................TrusteeKim Shafer ...............................................................................TrusteeChristine VanDenBerg .............................................................Trustee

Non-Profit Org.US Postage

PAIDPlainwell, Michigan

Permit No. 37Plainwell Community Schools600 School DrivePlainwell, MI 49080-1595

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

WRESTLINGDEC. 7 Hopkins Quad A 10 Sturgis Invite A 10 Coloma Invite (JV) A 14 Plainwell Quad. H 17 Travis Pickett Memorial Tournament H 29 Comstock Tourn. AJAN. 4 Allegan Quad. A 7 Comstock Tourn. (JV) A 11 Otsego Dual A 14 Bangor Invite (V) A 14 Three Rivers (JV) A 18 Comstock Quad. A 21 Caledonia Invite A 25 Otsego Quad. A 28 Jenison Tournament AFEB. 4 Wolverine Conference @ Paw Paw A 8 Team Districts H 11 Individual Districts @ Hamilton A

COMPETITIVE CHEERDEC. 3 Plainwell Cheer Fest H 10 CCCAM Invitational A 14 Vicksburg Jamboree AJAN. 7 Grandville A 11 Plainwell Jamboree H 12 Think Pink at Northview HS A 18 Otsego Jamboree (JV) A 21 Lakewood Invitational A 25 Allegan Jamboree A 28 Lake Orion Invite AFEB. 4 Greater Kalamazoo A 8 Wolverine Conference A 11 Delta Plex Invite A 17 Districts A 25 Regionals AMar. 3 MHSAA State Finals A

BOYS SWIM AND DIVEDEC. 8 East Grand Rapids and GR Catholic Central A/6:00 13 Harper Creek H/6:00 15 Mattawan A/6:00JAN. 7 South Haven Invite A/12:00 10 Portage Northern H/6:00 17 Sturgis H/6:00 19 Albion A/6:00 24 Battle Creek Lakeview H/6:00 28 Tri @ Allegan w/Alma A/12:00 31 South Haven H/6:00FEB. 7 Otsego A/6:00 14 Allegan A/6:00 24 Conf. Finals @ Allegan A/6:00 25 Conf. Finals @ Allegan A/3:00MAR. 6 Diving Reg. @ East GR A/5:00 9 State Finals A/12:00 10 State Finals A/12:00

VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL** DEC. 6 Coloma H/7:15 9 South Haven H/7:15 13 Dowagiac H/7:15 16 Allegan A/7:15 20 Wayland A/7:15 22 Middleville Thornapple-Kellogg H/2:00 JAN. 3 Gull Lake A/7:15 6 Comstock H/7:15 10 Vicksburg A/7:15 17 Three Rivers H/7:15 20 Otsego H/7:15 24 Paw Paw H/7:15 27 South Haven A/7:15 FEB. 3 Allegan H/7:15 7 Dowagiac A/7:15 10 Comstock A/7:15 14 Vicksburg H/7:15 21 Three Rivers A/7:15 24 Otsego A/7:15 MAR. 1 Paw Paw A/7:15 Districts: March 5th, 7th, and 9th

FRESHMAN & JV BOYS BASKETBALLDEC. 6 Coloma H/4:15 8 South Haven A/5:00 13 Dowagiac H/4:15 15 Allegan H/5:00 20 Wayland A/4:30 22 Middleville Thornapple-Kellogg H/11:00JAN. 3 Gull Lake A/4:15 5 Comstock A/5:00 10 Vicksburg A/4:15 17 Three Rivers H/4:15 19 Otsego A/5:00 24 Paw Paw H/4:15 26 South Haven H/5:00FEB. 2 Allegan A/5:00 7 Dowagiac A/4:15 9 Comstock H/5:00 14 Vicksburg H/4:15 21 Three Rivers A/4:15 23 Otsego H/5:00MAR. 1 Paw Paw A/4:30

BOYS AND GIRLS BOWLINGDEC. 3 Eastland Bowl A/12:00 10 Continental Lanes A/12:00 17 Rainbow Lanes A/3:00JAN. 7 Plainwell Lanes H/12:00 14 Continental Lanes A/12:00 21 Plainwell Lanes H/12:00 28 Eastland Bowl A/12:00FEB. 4 Airway Lanes A/12:00 11 Holiday Lanes A/12:00 18 Snow Date/Baker Tour. A/TBA VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALLNOV. 29 Galesburg-Augusta A/7:15 DEC. 2 Paw Paw H/7:15 9 South Haven H/6:00 13 Dowagiac A/7:15 16 Allegan A/6:00 22 Middleville A/2:00JAN. 3 Gull Lake H/7:15

6 Comstock H/6:00 10 Vicksburg H/7:15 17 Three Rivers A/7:15 20 Otsego H/6:00 24 Paw Paw A/7:15 27 South Haven A/6:00 31 Edwardsburg H/7:15FEB. 3 Allegan H/6:00 7 Dowagiac H/7:15 10 Comstock A/6:00 14 Vicksburg A/7:15 21 Three Rivers H/7:15 24 Otsego A/6:00 Districts: Feb. 27th, 29th, and March 2nd

FRESHMAN & JV GIRLS BASKETBALLNOV. 29 Galesburg-Augusta (JV only) A/5:30DEC. 2 Paw Paw H/4:15 8 South Haven (JV) H/5:00 13 Dowagiac (JV) A/5:45 15 Allegan A/5:00 22 Middleville A/11:00JAN. 3 Gull Lake H/4:15 5 Comstock (9 only) H/5:00 10 Vicksburg H/4:15 17 Three Rivers A/4:15 19 Otsego H/5:00 23 Hopkins (9 only) A/4:15 24 Paw Paw A/4:15 27 South Haven A/4:15 31 Hackett (9 only) A/4:30 31 Edwardsburg (JV) H/5:30FEB. 2 Allegan H/5:00 7 Hackett (9) H/4:15 7 Dowagiac (JV) H/5:30 9 Comstock A/5:00 14 Vicksburg A/4:15 21 Three Rivers H/4:15 23 Otsego A/5:00

**The Varsity Basketball schedules are different from the Freshman and JV schedules.

Documents

School Matters Fall 2011