Schools, Education

11.18.19

The goats are following in the Rams' footsteps

First-year Baseline robotics team, GOATageddon, headed to state finals, while Team RAMageddon hopes for third bid

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

Baseline Middle School's rookie robotics team beat the odds at its first competition by qualifying for a state competition.

“We won the Inspire award,” explained robotics team mentor Jennifer Emenhiser. “The Inspire Award is an automatic ticket to the State Championship. The team members created an engineering notebook, presented it to the judges and had a 10-minute question-and-answer session with them following the presentation. The team was also evaluated on the playing field as well as in the pits where they answered different judges' questions.”

Comprised of 11 girls and 4 boys, team GOATageddon designed and built a 12x14-inch robot with help from mentors Megan Hodgman, Phil Keinrich, Nancy Nelson, Rocky Starland, Youth mentor Zack Emenhiser and Jennifer.

They attended their inaugural FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) competition Nov. 9 at Gull Lake High School in Richland.

“Since our FIRST high school robotics competition team is Ramageddon, one of our high school mentors thought GOATageddon would be funny,” Emenhiser said, regarding the rather unique name. “The team agreed. GOAT stands for Gracious Optimists Advancing with Teamwork.”

In Michigan, FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is the sole program for middle school students with teams comprised of middle school age students.

“Our team started in May of 2019 after Logan Haverly and myself saw the benefits of robotics at the high school level,” Emenhiser. said

Her son Zack has been on the high school team RAMageddon for three years. Knowing the advantages of her son being on a robotics team, Emenhiser and her partner Haverly decided to start one at Baseline where her daughter Olivia is a student.

FIRST in Michigan operates a progression of programs which differs from FIRST national. The state model enables students, starting at the elementary school level, to build upon the skills and experiences attained at one level then flow naturally to the next level without overlap.

GOATageddon’s next competition is Dec. 7 in Coloma and then the State Championship, Dec. 12-14  at the Kellogg Center in Battle Creek.

PHOTO: Baseline Middle School GOATageddon robotics team leader Logan Haverly inspects the team's robot to make sure it's ready for the district competition, Nov. 9, at Gull Lake High School, while team members look on. (Contributed photo)

3.18.19

South Haven History Club members qualify for Michigan History Day competition

By BECKY KARK
Editor and general manager

Whoever says kids don't like history hasn't met members of South Haven Public Schools History Club.
Students in grades 4 through 12 not only spend time after school researching their favorite topics they even come in on Sundays to do so. And their efforts paid off Saturday, March 9 when they traveled to Western Michigan University to compete in the regional History Day competition.
Of the 28 students who qualified for the regional contest, 12 will now be heading to the state competition, April 27 at Bay City High School, in Bay City.
To have such a good showing at regionals doesn't surprise History Club Advisor Julie Sheppard.
“We have a couple more that qualified than last year, but we have averaged between 35 to 50 percent each year,” she said.
The Michigan History Day competition is an educational program of the Historical Society of Michigan. Students who do well at the state level will advance to the national competition, which takes place in June in College Park, Md.
South Haven's History Club students from North Shore Elementary School, Baseline Middle School and South Haven High School geared up for the regional competition by preparing exhibits, documentaries and group performances that highlighted compelling historical figures and events in American history. This year's History Day theme is “From Triumph to Tragedy.”
For this year's competition students presented programs on such subjects as Singapore, Mich., a 19th century town at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River that has been buried under sand for more than 100 years; the role Sacajawea played in helping The Lewis and Clark Expedition reach America's Northwest during the early1800s; and the sinking of the Civil War-era ship, The Sultana – considered one of the worst maritime tragedies in U.S. history.
History Club students began researching and putting together their projects at the beginning of the school year, according to Sheppard, who is a teacher at North Shore Elementary School.
“We kicked off the last week of October and wrapped up our first set of competition pieces two weeks ago,” she said. “With snow days and computer glitches from weather issues, the students put in extra hours after school and also met on Sundays, starting in January, for 3 hours. The students that are getting ready for state-level competition have already started rewriting, re-recording and doing additional research to make improvements before the competition.”
Getting ready for competitions isn't the only thing the History Club members are doing this year.
This past Friday, Nic Sheppard and Myles Daugherty presented their group exhibit entry, "Triumph Lost in Flames: The Sultana Tragedy" to the Kalamazoo Civil War Round Table. Sheppard and Daugherty, who both are high school students, were asked to do so after earning the Round Table's Best Entry in Civil War History at the regional History Day competition.
Two other History Club members, Max Verseput and Isaac Chalupa of North Shore Elementary School, will also be making a presentation after earning the Best Use of Primary Sources Award and a $50 cash prize at the regional competition for their research on Singapore, Mich.
“Max and Isaac will be one of our featured presenters at the next South Haven school board meeting,” Sheppard said.
In May, all of the History Club members will be presenting their projects to the community during Night at the Museum, which will be hosted by the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum from 5-7 p.m., May 5.
“We hope the public will join us in speaking with and celebrating the members' hard work and dedication,” Sheppard said.
The club will also play a role in helping with South Haven's 150th anniversary celebration, Friday, May 10.
And if that's not enough to keep them busy, several members are helping Kalamazoo-based Paranormal Michigan club gather research for a book about unusual, explained phenomenon that occurs at locations throughout Southwest Michigan.
“We have four topics that will be sent to them,” Sheppard said.

Award-winning entries

The following History Club members either qualified for the Michigan History Day competition or earned awards at the regional level:

North Shore Elementary students
• August Zoet and Jacob Kaczmarek, youth documentary for “Failure to Launch: Apollo 1.”
• Kaitlin Moore, London Pirsein, Adelynn Beery and Ruby Peterson, youth group performance of “Sacajawea's Life of Triumph and Tragedy.”
• Max Verseput and Isaac Chalupa were awarded Best Use of Primary Sources award and a cash prize for their group performance entry, “Buried Beneath the Sand - The Forgotten Town of Singapore, Mich.”

Baseline Middle School students
• Tabitha Newberry, junior level individual documentary for “Angel of the Warsaw Ghetto.”

South Haven High School students
• Avery Daugherty, senior level individual performance for “Nellie Bly – Ahead of her Time, Forgotten in the Papers.”
• Maddox Uckele and Jessee Ford, senior group documentary for “Final Voyage: The U.S.S. Indianapolis
• Nic Sheppard and Myles Daugherty, senior group exhibit for “Triumph Lost in Flames: The Sultana Tragedy.”

PHOTO: History Club members from North Shore Elementary School take part in a youth group performance chronicling the life of Native American Sacajawea during the regional History Day competition. The group members are  Kaitlin Moore, London Pirsein, Adelynn Beery and Ruby Peterson. (Contributed photo)

11.5.18

Stand up, be proud

New program encourages South Haven students to 'ascend to new heights'

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

Nic Sheppard began his racing career when he was just 5 years old.

Since then, the 15-year-old South Haven High School freshman has logged thousands of miles behind the wheel driving everything from go-karts to a Formula F car on race tracks across the United States.

His achievements are the latest to be told in a video campaign by South Haven Public Schools called Ascending to New Heights. The program showcases the accomplishments of students and the community.

“We started the campaign at the beginning of 2018 and have done a variety of things with it since then,” explained Becca Teunissen, secretary for the superintendent of South Haven Public Schools. “We have encouraged students in all of our buildings and community members to either film themselves talking about a specific accomplishment or point of pride or to contact the communications department to set up an appointment for us to interview and record students. This year, Ascending to New Heights was discussed at our Welcome Back Staff Breakfast prior to the start of the school year and it was even selected as the homecoming theme.”

The campaign strives to keep students like Sheppard, and the South Haven community, goal-focused and aware of  how each individual contributes to the district’s success.

“At South Haven Public Schools, we are proud of our diversity and embrace the unique skills and talents each student, staff, and community member brings to the table,” said former Superintendent Robert Herrera, who introduced the program earlier this year before leaving to become CEO and Superintendent of Benton Harbor Public Schools. “With the current positive school atmosphere and momentum, I see the district only advancing in terms of educational innovation.”

On their videos, students have talked about a variety of topics like school musicals, robotics, Quiz Bowl and a student-led skit on bullying and suicide prevention.

“We encourage all of our students and community members to submit videos or create appointments with our Communications Department to record videos,” Teunissen said. “We also try to reach out to our coaches and advisers for suggestions on students to interview.”

The videos are then edited by a staff member and posted on the school’s Facebook page, website and YouTube channel. Videos are also shown at school board meetings. 

“I’m proud to be a racer,” Sheppard said. “It just doesn’t mean going around a track and beating someone. It’s achieving a goal. It’s the same thing here at South Haven Public Schools — you can achieve something.”

PHOTO: South Haven High School principal Jerry Sardina interviews freshman Nic Sheppard about his racing career for the Ascending to New Heights program, which showcases accomplishments of students and the community. (Photo by Kim Ingalls)

9.24.18

Light up the Night ignites school programs

Approximately 500 participants and 60 volunteers took part in the annual Light up the Night 5K fundraiser for South Haven Public Schools.

The race/walk took place Saturday, Sept. 15 at South Haven High School and included games and activities prior to the 5K and concluded with a dinner and music.

“We had another successful turnout,” said Maple Grove Elementary School teacher Heather Chalupa, one of the organizers of the race. “We had participants from South Haven and surrounding communities; even some from out-of-state. We had around 10 students along the course from the band and orchestra and the volleyball team helping with music and a water station.”

Light up the Night proceeds go toward school programs and activities not funded through the school district's budget, including field trips, new library books, improved access to technology and guest speakers.

“We haven't quite figured out the dollar amount (made from this year's 5K) but we believe it will be close to our $8,000-$10,000 amount,” Chalupa said. “We also measure the amount of success by seeing so many families coming together and building relationships with so many people in our community.”

Plans are underway for next year's Light up the Night 5K. People are invited to go the Light up the Night Facebook page to complete a survey which will help organizers plan for the 2019 event.

PHOTO: Youths and adults are shown beginning the Light up the Night 5K race/walk, Sept. 15, at South Haven High School. The event was a fundraiser to benefit programs and activities offered by South Haven Public Schools.

8.20.18

New school year begins Sept. 4 for area students

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

The backpacks are filled, the tennis shoes have been bought and the lazy days of summer are ending which can only mean one thing - it’s back to school time.

Bangor

Bangor Public Schools students will head back to the classroom for a full day on Tuesday, Sept. 4. Open houses are scheduled from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for all buildings on Wednesday, Aug. 29 where kids and families can meet teachers and tour the buildings.

Free breakfast and lunch will be provided to all students. High school students who are interesting in attempting to test out of a course, must make an appointment with the high school office the week of Aug. 27. In order to test out, students must pass the comprehensive exam with a minimum of 78 percent before starting the course.

For bus route information, call the transportation office at  269-427-6834. School of choice applications are available at all school building offices. Applications will be accepted until Sept. 7.

Bloomingdale

Bloomingdale Public Schools students will return to classes on Tuesday, Sept. 4 for a full day.  Open houses will be held Tuesday, Aug. 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Bloomingdale and Pullman elementary schools.

Free breakfast and lunch will be served to all students. Lunch menus will be posted online at the school website under the food service link. In order to obtain transportation on the first day of school, transportation request forms must be turned into the Transportation Office no later than Aug.  24. The request form is available on the school’s website.

Parents are asked to have students at bus stops 10 minutes before pick up times. Parents or guardians of students in second grade or below must be at the bus stop to pick up child. 

Covert

Covert Public School students will have a half day of school on Tuesday, Sept. 4. Classes will be dismissed at 12:15 p.m. A backpack giveaway and open house will be held the same day from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Classes will begin at 7:45 a.m. after breakfast is served. All students will receive free meals.

Building hours are Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. New students can pick up applications in the main office or by calling 269-764-3730 with any questions.

South Haven

South Haven Public Schools students will head back to class Tuesday, Sept. 4 for a full day. They and their parents will get a chance to walk through the schools ahead of time at school open houses, scheduled from 4:30-6 p.m. at the elementary, middle and high schools.

School start and dismissal times follow: South Haven High School, 7:30 a.m.-2:19 p.m.; South Haven Alliance Campus, 7:30 a.m.-2:19 p.m.; Baseline Middle School, 7:40 a.m.-2:38 p.m.; North Shore Elementary School: 8:34 a.m.-3:35 p.m.; Lincoln Elementary School, 8:50 a.m.-3:51 p.m.; and Maple Grove Elementary School, 8:50 a.m.-3:51 p.m.

Breakfast and lunch will be free to all elementary and middle school students. High School stuents will pay $1.25 for breakfast and $2.75 for lunch. Milk is 50 cents for all students.

Bus transportation will begin on Sept. 4. Students who registered to ride buses last year will automatically be registered to ride this year. Information about new bus stop times will be delivered to parents in late August. Those who have not received anything in the mail by Aug. 29 should call the transportation department at 637-0570.

6.25.18

Students' artistic flair recognized at Art Expo

More than a dozen students earned awards for their artwork in the recent South Haven High School Art Expo.

“The Art Expo was a great success,” said high school art teacher Lisa Rostar, who is retiring this month after 26 years of teaching in South Haven. “The students received many positive comments about the quality of their work.”

Ten pieces of art earned various awards at the show, while 10 were named honorable mention.

Erin Zoet, an art teacher and now owner of the Crescent Moon retail shop in downtown South Haven, judged the show this year. More than $600 in prize money was distributed to award winners chosen by the judge.

In addition to the judged awards, two pieces of art received Patron Awards from two individuals who are patrons for the school's art program. Steve Hinz, former South Haven Public Schools custodian and parent of former art student Austin Hinz, selected a winner, while Terri Wakild, a fifth-grade teacher at North Shore Elementary and parent of former student Bree Wakild, gave out the other award.

Award winners follow:

• Best of Show: Maya Ankenbruck for the metal sculpture, “Keeping a Leash on My Demons.”
• First Place: Stephanie Rosas for her graphite drawing, “The World Next Door.”
• Second Place: Paisley Sipes for her graphite drawing.
• Third Place: Julie Rosas for her watercolor, “Be Bold, Be Different.”
• Fourth Place: Paisley Sipes for her watercolor, “Honorary Cowgirl.”
• People's Choice Award: Garrett Carr for his graphite drawing.
• Steve Hinz Patron Award: Maya Ankenbruck for her charcoal drawing, “Trifecta.”
• Terri Wakild Patron Award: Liv Rickett for her acrylic painting.
• Superintendent's Award: Stephanie Rosas for her watercolor, “Celebracion de la Mujer.”
• Principal's Award: Haley Hutto for the pastel, “The Yellow House.”
• Honorable Mention awards: Patience Davis, graphite; Nadyra Wagoner, graphite; Maya Ankenbruck, Parker and Noah; Liv Rickett, watercolor; Jordan Harris, pastel named “Three Owls”; Liv Rickett, graphite; Francisco Arizaga Jimenez, watercolor; Kyra Harr, watercolor; Mallory Dorow, graphite; and Damien Ibarra, pastel.

PHOTO: Several of the South Haven High School Art Expo award winners are shown from left: Jordan Harris, Liv Rickett, Julie Rosas, Stephanie Rosas, Maya Ankenbruck, Paisley Sipes, Nadyra Wagoner, Francisco Arizaga Jimenez, Kyra Harr and Mallory Dorow.

Bangor seniors earn more than $100,000 in scholarships

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

BANGOR – Bangor High School recently honored its graduating seniors during the annual senior awards night.

Karyssa Gallegos-Cuevas earned the title of valedictorian. The daughter of Cecilia Cuevas and Estreverto Gallegos, she plans to attend Kalamazoo Valley Community College to become a dental hygienist while getting certified as pharmacy technician.

Salutatorian is Brittny Lyzenga, the daughter of Christina and Brett Lyzenga.  She plans to attend Kalamazoo Valley Community College for its illustration program and then enroll in art school to become a storyboard artist or animator.

The class of 2018 received over $100,000 worth of scholarships and completed 1,200 hours of community service.

Honorees and scholarship winners follow:

• Top Ten academic students: Madison Kueny, Alexzander Ealy, Madison McGuire, Samantha Zordan, Brett Robertson, Gerardo Villanueva, Christina VanNuys and Estefania Alcaraz-Flores.
• Four-year honor students: Estefania Alcaraz-Flores, Jamie Allen, Alexzander Ealy, Karyssa Gallegos-Cuevas, Madison Kueny, Brittny Lyzenga, Madison McGuire, Jacqueline Perry,  Brett Robertson, Regan Slone, Christine VanNuy, Gerardo Villanueva, Quentin Walantyn, Samantha Zordan.

Scholarships

• Ross E. Normington Scholarship — Ben Greiner
• Kay Myrkle Scholarship - Emily Roe
• Patrick O. Watkins Scholarship - Madison McGuire
• Teri Lynn Wilson Scholarship - Breanna McNett
• Francis E. Martin Scholarship - Brett Robertson
• Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees Scholarship - Jacqueline Perry
• Allegan General Hospital Scholarship - Madison Kueny
• American Red Cross Scholarships - Estonia Alcaraz, Brittny Lyzenga, Bebe Villanueva, Madison Kueny
• Bangor Lions Club Scholarship - Emily Roe, Brett Robertson
• Maude and Avison Gano Scholarship - Brett Robertson, Madison Kueny
• Bangor Middle School Staff Scholarship - Angelia Ross
• Bronson South Haven Auxiliary Scholarship - Madison Kueny
• Bangor Arts Council Scholarship - Brittny Lyzenga
• Deborah Weber Memorial Scholarship - Kayrssa Gallegos-Cuevas
• Ferris State University Scholarship - Brett Robertson
• Warren and Helen Freestone (Overton) Scholarship - Jamie Allen
• Bill Mayhak Scholarship - Brett Robertson
• Viking Club Scholarship - Brett Robertson, Skylar Baldwin, Ben Greiner
• Male Athlete of the Year Scholarship - Brett Robertson
• Female Athlete of the Year Scholarship - Madison McGuire
• Students receiving diplomas: Estefania Alcaraz-Flores, Jamie Allen, Javier Alvarado, Skyler Baldwin, Dyrone Booker, Jacob Brink, Gavin Buckelew, Karah Bulley, Corbin Carr, Faviola Diaz, Romeo Diaz Deleon, Ahsan Dolly, Alexzander Ealy, Caleb Erb, Karyssa Gallegos-Cuevas, Mario Garcia, Miguel Gonzalez, Benjamin Greiner, Angelo Griffioen, Marcus Hicks, Erica Hooper, John Hooper Jr., Nickolis Hoots, Elisabeth Jackson, Anissa Keh, Madison Kueny, Brittny Lyzenga, Richard Mahlum, Madison McGuire, Zachary McKinney, Breanna McNett, Harley Miller, Deja Murk, Ernesto Nieva, Epiphany Parker, Jacqueline Perry, Lupita Pineda, Michael Pobuda, Tyler Post, Phillip Ridenour, Otis Riggins, Brett Robertson, Alma Rodriguez, Emily Roe, Angelia Ross, Katlyn Sanchez, Ricardo Saucedo, Ernesto Saucedo Jr., Oralia Segura, Evan Siler, Regan Slone, Christopher Steward, Jonathan Strampel, Cesar Tinoco, Christine VanNuys, Daniel Villalobos, Diana Villalobos, Gerardo Villanueva, Alexandra Vorva, Quentin Walantyn, Conner Walters-McDaniel, Holly Watkins, Madisun Woger, Samantha Zordan.

5.28.18

Bloomingdale graduating seniors earn honors and scholarships

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

BLOOMINGDALE — Bloomingdale High School’s Class of 2018 will receive their hard-earned diplomas Friday, June 1 at 7 p.m. in the high school gymnasium.

Earning the Valedictorian title is Leah Reilly, daughter of William and Michelle Reilly. After graduation, Leah plans to attend the University of Michigan to study astronomy.

Valerie Hanley was named salutatorian. She is the daughter of Jeff and Joelle Hanley and plans to attend Southwestern Michigan College to earn an associate’s degree in science.

The following students are graduating with honor awards:

Highest Honors — Rachel Douglas, Hannah Felty, Jason Herrera, Nolan Kohlhoff‬ and ‪Leah Reilly‬

‪High Honors — Yaraici Morales Avila and Albert Rawson

Honors — ‬ ‪James Aaron‬, ‪Lindsay Becker‬, ‪Jackson Braunz, Alexis Cripps‬, ‪Cynthia Dorado‬, ‪Taylor Finch‬, ‪Maria Gallegos Lopez‬, ‪Quinn Garman‬, ‪Adolfo Gonzalez, Jr.‬, ‪James Grenlin‬, ‪Briseida Marquez‬, ‪Esmeralda Nesta‬, ‪Ashley Page‬, ‪Giselly Silva‬, ‪Koren Stehouwer‬, ‪Cierra Stone‬, ‪Thaddeus Vernon‬, ‪Timothy Warden‬ a‪nd Kaitlyn Watson.‬

The following students are receiving scholarships:

‪• James Aaron — William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship, $3,000;

• Cynthia Dorado — Raven Morrison scholarship, $500;

• Giselly Silva — Pullman Pride scholarship, $1,000; Raven Morrison scholarship, $500; Bloomingdale Education Scholarship, $500; Terry Laraway Scholarship, $1,000; and the William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship - $3,000‬

• Hannah Felty — AC Laws Trust Gift, $1,000‬

• Taylor Finch — Berlamont Community Church scholarship, $5,000‬

• Valerie Hanley — William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship, $3,000;‪

• Maria Gallegos Lopez — William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship, $3,000‬;

• Esmeralda Nesta — Terry Laraway scholarship, $1,000; Pullman Pride scholarship, $1,000‬; and‪ William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship, $6,000 renewable‬ each year;

• Brian Paquette — Cardinal Youth Sports scholarship, $500;

• Cierra Stone — Cardinal Youth Sports scholarship, $500‬, ‪BASF scholarship, $1,000; ‪and William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship, $3,000;‬

• Albert Rawson — William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship, $3,000‬

• Leah Reilly — Kevin Kluskowski Memorial scholarship, $500; ‪William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship, $4,000

• Timothy Warden — William "Bill" Lake Memorial scholarship, $3,000. ‬

Graduating seniors: James Aaron, Lindsay Becker, Joseph Black, Alina Bostan, Jennifer Boyer, Jackson Braunz, Allison Cain,Thomas Campbell, Tyler Campbell, Alexis Cripps, Austin Cripps, Cynthia Dorado, Rachel Douglas,  Hannah Felty, Taylor Finch, Bradley Fitzhugh, Maria Gallegos Lopez, Quinn Garman, Adolfo Gonzalez, Jr., James Grenlin, Valerie Hanley, Destiney Hensley, Jason Herrera, Josue Huipe Hernandez, Nolan Kohlhoff, Briseida Marquez, Yaraici Morales, Angel Morales Salinas, Esmeralda Nesta, Daniel Newburry, Ashley Page, Claudia Paglia, Brian Paquette, Giulia Piasentin, Albert Rawson, Leah Reilly, Eduardo Sedano, Jenna Shingledecker, Giselly Silva, Brandon Smith, Jessica Smith, Britney Snyder, Corey Stanbro, Koren Stehouwer, Cierra Stone, Thaddeus Vernon, Zane Walantyn, Tim Warden, Kaitlyn Watson and Brody Whitecotton.   

5.21.18

Covert High School announces its honor grads

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

COVERT — Covert High School’s Class of 2018 will walk across the gymnasium for the last time during commencement exercises on Sunday, June 3 at 4 p.m.

Valdermero Ruiz has been chosen as class valedictorian. He is 18 and the son of Otillo Ruiz and Elvira Cardozo. With a grade point average (GPA) of 3.6, Ruiz is class vice-president, a National Technical Honor Society member and has played soccer for the last three years. He received the Martin LutherKing Gold award, All Academic Scholar award and the Comcast, Cesar Chavez and Swing-Lo scholarships.

He plans to attend Western Michigan University to study Criminal Justice.

Juan Talavera, 18, earned the title of salutatorian. The son of Jorge and Gloria Talavera, he has been a member of the soccer team for three years, the track team for two years and a member of the National Technical Honor Society.

Talavera had a GPA of 3.20. After graduation, he plans to attend college to possibly study medicine.

He was awarded the Martin Luther King Gold award, Swing -Lo scholarship and All-Academic Scholar award.

Other honor graduates are Ivan Chagolla, Jennifer Fabian and Kenneth Jeffries, who have obtained 3.0 GPAs.

PHOTOS: Valdermero Ruiz (top), Juan Talavera (right)



3.12.18

Students to perform 'Once Upon a Mattress'

South Haven High School's theater program plans to present the comedy musical, “Once Upon a Mattress,” this weekend in Listiak Auditorium, 600 Elkenburg St. “Once Upon a Mattress” is loosely based on the Hans Christian Andersen folk tale, “The Princess and The Pea,” which tells the story of a prince's search for just the right bride and the rather odd method his mother comes up with to help him do so. In 1959, “Once Upon a Mattress” opened on Broadway, starring Carol Burnett. starred in the musical stage production of Once Upon a Mattress. More than 50 students are taking part in the South Haven show, which will be performed at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, March 16-17 and 2 p.m., Sunday, March 18. Tickets are $5 for students and senior citizens and $8 for general admission, and will be available at the door. 

3.5.18

St. Paul students donate food for backpack program

Students who attend a private school in South Haven recently reached out to help local public elementary school students.

Students at St. Paul Lutheran School donated more than 600 food items for the Blessings in a Backpack program at South Haven Public Schools.

St. Paul students did so as part of the 100th Day of School celebration in which each class was challenged to bring in 100 food items or more for the Blessings in the Backpack program.

St. Paul students managed to collect more than 600 foot items, including fruit snacks, granola bars and oatmeal packets.

“Those are all items purchased every week for the Backpack program,” said St. Paul parent and food drive co-organizer Cami Filbrandt-Copi.

The food will be used to give out to students at Lincoln, Maple Grove and North Shore elementary schools.

Each Friday, Blessings in the Backpack volunteers pack take-home bags of nutritious snack items for students and their families to eat during the weekend.

St. Paul students were rewarded for their efforts. Maria's restaurant, Taco Bell, Wendy's and The Living Room donated pizzas and other food for the students to enjoy.





2.19.18

The Bloomingdale High School's robotics team is shown. Front row from left: Terrin Nuismer, Jennifer Martinez, Leah Reilly, Anakin Hanley and James Aaron. Back row from left: Michael Ellard, Lilly Livsey, Joseph Reilly, Joe Finch, Jarrod Holton, and team advisor Brian Baker.

Bloomingdale hopes to expand robotics program

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

BLOOMINGDALE- — The high school’s FIRST robotics team is off to a good start this year after receiving a state grant.

Bloomingdale High School’s Cardinal.EXE Team 6589, along with South Haven High School and Van Buren Technology Center, were among several schools that received the state gift. Bloomingdale received $6,500 which will help with competition costs. 

“The team was really excited (about the grant.)” said Brian Baker, Bloomingdale High School science teacher and team advisor. “Even though we are working on partnering with businesses, we were needing the grants to help pay for this season. Without the grants, we would not have been able to pay and compete this season.  We are thankful for the State of Michigan for offering these grants to schools.”

Since 2014, Michigan has invested $12 million into local FIRST teams. The world championships, planned for April 25-28, are expected to include nearly 60,000 students and 700 teams at Ford Field and Cobo Center in Detroit. 

Formed last year, Cardinal.EXE  is entering its second competitive season. Comprised of high schoolers, interest in the team has blossomed since its formation - a trend that school officials hope will continue.

“Last year we had 10 students and six of those were seniors,” Baker said. “This year we have 15 students with only four of those being seniors, so between our first year and this year,  the team has grown. We hope to continue to add new students.”  

Last year, students spent six weeks building a robot they took to two competitions. At the Battle Creek Lakeview District event, Cardinal. EXE finished 14 out of 40 teams and took home  the Highest Rookie Seed Award (the highest placing rookie team at the competition) and the Rookie All Star Award (the best rookie team at the competition). 

Their second competition turned out a little bit different.

“The Gull Lake District Event did not go as well,” Baker recalled. “We finished 39 out of 40 teams but the kids did not give up and fought through the whole competition. We were awarded the Rookie Inspiration Award at this event.”

Even with the slow start, the team finished the season ranking 224 out of 456 teams statewide. 

“By winning the Rookie All Star Award at the Lakeview event we were able to go to the State competition to interview for the top rookie team in the state that year along with 20 other rookie teams,“ said Baker.  “Another school was awarded that award, but regardless, we were able to accomplish a lot during the season.”

Interest in starting a school team began last year after some students worked with Van Buren Technology Center’s Team 1254 Tech Force. With guidance from Bloomingdale High School principal Rick Reo, Cardinal.EXE was born. 

Baker says Bloomingdale Schools hopes to create more robotics teams as student interest grows.

“Starting in the fall of 2018 we will have a middle school team here that will allow middle school students to compete against other middle schools, “ he said. ”In the fall of 2019 we hope to have teams started in both Bloomingdale and Pullman elementary schools.”



1.29.18

South Haven High School's robotics team, Team Ramageddon is shown with their new cart, created at Spencer Manufacturing, which then donated it to the team. Standing from left are  Alex Overholser (Team Ramageddon 4855 alumni), Ryan Peterson, Trevor Vincent, Maddy Wise, Brenan Diekema, Taylor Vincent, Alex Marovec, Alex Rummel, Allison Uckele, Parker Jensen, Joel Rummel, Hunter DeVries, Zach Emenhiser and Grant Spencer of Spencer Manufacturing, Inc.  Kneeling  from left are Daisy Solis, Jackie Solis, Sophie Goodnough, Alexis Skuca, Elise Postma and Will Hasted.

South Haven robotics team revs up for competition

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Armed with a new storage cart, a $2,500 state grant, equipment and the brain power needed to build a robot, the South Haven High School robotics team is ready to enter its sixth season of competition.

A storage cart for Team Ramageddon may pale in comparison to the efforts the team puts into building a robot that can successfully perform tasks in competitions.

But the new cart South Hvaen's team has is no ordinary one. It was custom designed, built and donated by Spencer Manufacturing of South Haven.

“Between labor hours and materials, the value of the cart is in excess of $2,500,” said Kim Wise, co-advisor for South Haven's robotics team.

The new cart features diamond-plating, a storage drawer, and a flip-up table for the team's laptop and controls. It even sports South Haven's school colors of purple and gold.

It will replace the team's old, wooden cart.

“Following our final competition last year, our old wooden cart we used to transport our robot started to fall apart,” Wise said. “The wheel came off and part of the wooden base split. We mentioned this to Grant Spencer and he graciously offered to build us a new and improved cart.”

The cart became customized for the team's use partly due to a worker who had experience with Team Ramageddon.

“One of our former team members, Alex Overholser, was working as an intern at Spencer's this past summer and actually built the cart,” Wise said. “Thanks to his past experience with the team, he had the knowledge of what was needed of the cart. We are looking forward to debuting the cart at our competitions this year.”

The FIRST (For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology) robotics season in Southwest Michigan kicked off earlier this month at Lake Michigan College where teams learned what this year's game will be and rules they will need to follow to build their robots.

FIRST is an international educational organization that creates programs to encourage students to pursue their interst in math, science, technology and engineering. FIRST's robotics competition is labeled as a “varsity sport for the mind” where students work alongside engineers, technologists and other business professionals to fundraise, market and build robots for use in competitions. Through their participation students can qualify for more $30 million in college scholarships.

Teams have six weeks to design and build their robots. South Haven's robot will be unveiled during an open house scheduled for 6 p.m., Thursday, March 1 at the high school, 600 Elkenburg St.

Team Ramageddon will then travel to Gull Lake High School, March 16-17 for their first competition. The second one will occur March 30-31 at East Kentwood High School. Teams that do well at the district level will advance to the regional and state level.

Gearing up for the FIRST competitions and building a robot isn't easy nor is it cheap.The team receives a state grant each year, however, the grant is only a small amount of the funds the teams need.

“The total cost to buy parts, tools, hardware, promotional materials, and to attend the competitions runs at a minimum of $12,000 to $15,000 per year,” Wise said. “As our team grows and as our technical abilities increase, so does the cost for more advanced parts and equipment, and that is where our generous sponsors come to our aid. For example, thanks to a donation from Albemarle, we were able to purchase a new swerve drive for the robot. The swerve drive will allow our robot to be nimble and to move more quickly on the field, which should improve the performance of our robot this season.”

Approximately 20 sponsors either donate money or their expertise to the team each year.

“Monetary donations from local businesses have ranged anywhere from $50 up to $4,000,” Wise said.

A bit plus for the team this year, is the creation of the new FAB Lab at the high school. The lab, which focuses on courses and programs that help students utilize science, technology, electronics and mathematics skills, was built as part of the high school's $27 million renovation project.

“Last year our team built our robot in a small room meant to be a storage closet,” Wise said. “We could barely fit seven kid sin there at one time. This year our build team has its own robotics room, which allows us space to store all of our equipment and tools, and room for the build team to spread out. On any given day, we can have 15 students and mentors in the room and we could probably fit up to 20 in the room.”

11.7.17

SH students present fall play

South Haven High School theater students take a break from rehearsing "Who's Dying to be a Millionaire?" The madcap mystery that lampoons TV game shows and basic human nature will be performed at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, Nov.10-11 in Listiak Auditorium. General admission tickets are $7 and $5 for students and senior citizens. Tickets will be available starting Monday in the high school office as well as at the door prior to each performance. “Who's Dying to be a Millionaire” by Pat Cook, follows the misadventures that occur at a popular game show of the same name where contestants fall down dead after correctly answering questions. As the police chief tries to shut the show down, game show officials and staff scurry to figure out who's trying to kill the show and its contestants. More than 40 South Haven students are involved as cast and crew members in the upcoming production.

9.25.17

SH teachers, students settle into new quarters

Ceremony planned to thank community for $27 million upgrade of South Haven High School

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

The new gym echoes with the sounds of cheering fans; chemistry students practice experiments under the safety of a new ventilation hood; Fab Lab classes design and create projects using state-of-the-art CNC routers, laser cutters and laser printers, and those two huge mountains of dirt outside the school grounds are finally gone.

After nearly two years of construction, South Haven High School now looks like a modern school building with technology equipment geared toward 21^st century curriculum.

Now that the $27 million renovation project is nearly complete, school officials want to celebrate by hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house, Saturday, Sept. 30, to thank the community for passing a bond issue in 2014 to make the improvements possible. The ribbon-cutting begins at 5 p.m. Afterwards, people can take guided or self-guided tours of the building and enjoy refreshments until 7 p.m. when the 4^th annual Light up the Night 5K run/walk fundraiser begins.

“We want to thank the community for their generosity,” said District Superintendent Bob Herrera. But there's another purpose for the celebration. Herrera hopes the public will be able to not only see the brick and mortar improvements but the technology that has been implemented to meet the needs of today's curriculum standards.

“If we can get people in, they'll get the idea of how the new space integrates with the technology that students use today to learn,” Herrera said. “They (the community) will get the idea of the educational value of these improvements. They'll understand we couldn't do those upgrades in an old building.”

Students and staff are impressed with their new surroundings and improvements.

“It's pretty cool,” said 11th-grader Reagan McFadden, who was studying in the school's new learning center – a large sprawling area with comfortable chairs and tables where students can study individually or in small classroom groups. The learning center also houses the school's library, which was formerly located in a confined space. “I didn't even know we had a library before,” McFadden said.

Other students were also impressed with the learning center.

“I love this room the most,” said Heidi deBest, who was sitting at a table with three other classmates, working on a project.

Anna Bocock said she was impressed with the new science classrooms and labs, which are twice the size of the old ones and stocked with up-to-date equipment and supplies.

“A lot of things were broken,” she said. “Now it's really safe. There's also a new science class this year – organic chemistry.”

Organic chemistry is one of 11 new courses being offered at the high school this year. Another one is “Design and Create,” where students can design and create their own wood, plastic or metal objects.

made of wood, plastic or metal in the school's new Fab Labs.

“The labs are cool,” said Sam Dubuisson. “Before you could design something in one class but you couldn't create it.”

Classmate Hayley Kreiger agreed. “Before, everything was separate.” Kreiger, who plays on the varsity volleyball team, was also impressed with the renovated gym.”Playing the first match in the gym was exciting. There was all new equipment.”

Teachers and staff also like their new digs.

“It's awesome,” said cafeteria manager and head cook Michele Leadingham, regarding the new, expansive cafeteria and kitchen. “Anything you could think to ask for they've done. We can make our own homemade pizzas, pasta and sauces. With three cashiers we can get kids in and out of here a lot faster.”

Dale Beeney, who's in charge of the Fab Labs, said the technology and equipment that have been purchased to prepare students for high-skill trades is top-notch.

“We have just as much if not better than what Lake Michigan College has,” he said.

Steve Stap, a veteran science teacher, said he appreciates his new chemistry classroom.

“It's much larger. You can split the class by having one half studying and the other using the lab.”

Stap said he also was impressed with the new exhaust fan, ventilation hood and additional storage areas for chemicals and supplies.

Down the hall, English teacher Erin O'Neil said the new flat screen monitors on the walls of her room are making it easier for her to provide instruction to her students.

“I can have instructions on one screen and examples on another,” she said.

PHOTO: Students are shown in the new cafeteria at South Haven High School. (Photo by Becky Kark)

9.18.17

Light up the Night raises funds for SH Schools

South Haven area residents will be rocking and glowing for a good cause during the Light up the Night 5K walk/run.

Now in its fourth year, the event raises more than $10,000 annually for South Haven Public Schools.

This year's 5K glow walk/run begins at 7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 30 at South Haven High School and will be preceded by fun, family-oriented activities at 5:30 p.m. After the race, participants can enjoy a dinner and music by a DJ.

Over the years, Light up the Night has become a popular fundraiser, according to Maple Grove Elementary School teacher Heather Chalupa, one of the organizers of the event.

“This event has been extremely successful and with the help of generous area businesses and individuals, we have been  able to raise close to $35,000 for the children of our community,” she said. “This money has been distributed directly to each of our five buildings.”

Funds are used to pay for programs and activities such as field trips, new library books, improved access to technology and guest speakers.

People can run, jog or walk along the course that starts at the high school, winds around to the lakeshore and continues back through town to the high school.

Runners won't have to worry about listening to music from their earphones. Race organizers plan to offer music along the course.

The registration fee to participate is $25 per person and $50 for families. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The fee includes the activities, food, entertainment and T-shirt. To receive a free T-shirt, participants have to sign up by Sept. 23.

Registration forms are available at any South Haven Public School district office and online at signmeup.com

To volunteer for the event, email jpuvogel@shps.org

8.28.17

An early season start

School doesn't begin until Sept. 5, but athletes and marching band members throughout Southwest Michigan took part in games this past week. In the photo above, members of South Haven's Purple Pride Marching Band perform during halftime at Thursday's varsity football game at Ratcliffe Field. (Photo by Tom Renner)

South Haven High School offers 11 new courses

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

When South Haven High School students return to school in September they will have more courses to choose from, including Robotics Engineering, Script Writing for TV, Honors Physics and Honors U.S. History.

Board of Education members recently approved 11 new courses for students.

A number of the new courses are geared toward the rising demand for advanced learning and career-ready courses, according to Danielle Hendry, South Haven Public Schools curriculum director.

Hendry, along with High School Principal Jerry Sardina and Assistant Principal Scott Jackson worked for the past year to expand the choice of academic courses.

“Some students are passionate about traditional academic classes and want to push themselves to college readiness,” Hendry said. “Other students are passionate about skilled trades and want to push themselves toward career readiness. We look at student interests, goals and gifts so we can provide opportunities for all students to align their academic experience with their dreams for the future.”

Several of the courses are geared for students who want to take advanced placement tests to receive college credit.

In the past, South Haven had an agreement with Lake Michigan College to offer dual-enrollment courses where students could take a high school course, such as physics, and earn credit toward their high school diploma as well as an associate's degree from LMC.

However, that agreement has ended, according to Superintendent Bob Herrera.

“We were teaching the courses with our own staff,” Herrera said. “Now certification for higher education (instruction) has gotten more rigorous and some of our teachers don't meet those qualifications.” LMC also was reluctant to put their staff members solely at South Haven High School to teach courses, according to Herrera.

As a result, the high school is stepping up its efforts to offer more honors courses and advanced placement courses to gear students for earning college credit if they decide to take the advanced placement tests.

A list of the new courses follows:

• • Honors U.S. History – a year-long course for freshmen. To have an interest in history as well as a desire to take the advanced placement version of the course as upperclassmen.
• • Honors physics – A year-long course for juniors and seniors.
• • Honors geometry – A year-long course for freshmen, sophomores and juniors. The course is intended to prepare students for honors algebra II and advanced placement calculus.
• • Advanced placement Spanish – a year-long course for students who have completed Spanish 1, 2, and 3.
• • Advanced placement chemistry – A year-long course for juniors and seniors who have taken biology and honors chemistry.
• • Fundamentals of organic chemistry – a year-long course for juniors and seniors who have completed biology, chemistry or honors chemistry.
• • Writing center – this semester class is for sophomores, juniors and seniors who are interested in developing their communication skills and helping other students develop writing skills.
• • Game design and coding – This semester-long class is for all students interested in learning coding and programming while incorporating graphics editing in designing video games.
• • Design and create – This semester-long class is for all students. Students will use laser engravers, CNC routers, vinyl cutters, lathes and other machine and hand tools to work with metal, plastic and woods.
• • Script writing – RAM TV – This year-long class is for all students. It will focus on the application of script and screenwriting skills. Students will produce a weekly show called Inside Ram Sports and cover live events, as well as human-interest stories.
• • Robotics engineering – This semester-long course is open to all students who want to explore robotics.

Parenting Expo planned in September in South Haven

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Raising children often creates emotional and financial stress for parents, but a local service club hopes to ease the strain parents feel by hosting a series of workshops and events designed to build positive relationships between youngsters and adults.

The Parenting Expo, sponsored and organized by the South Haven Kiwanis Club, will take place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 23 at Lake Michigan College's South Haven campus, 125 Veterans Blvd.

A committee of Kiwanis Club members and representatives of other local organizations and volunteers have spent the past six months lining up speakers and family-oriented activities for participants to take part in. Best of all, all of the events are being offered free of charge, including child care for a limited number of children up to age 11. There will also be door prizes and a free lunch for participants.

Mary Blashill, a member of the South Haven Kiwanis Club and chair of the Parenting Expo committee, came up with the idea of the expo last year.

“I was active in the annual parenting fair held in Sturgis,” she said. “The event, sponsored by the Sturgis Kiwanis Club, was well attended and gave the community an opportunity to explore and learn more about parenting.  I felt South Haven might also benefit from a similar event.”

The expo will begin with a speech by keynote speaker Dr. James Henry, founder and director of the Children's Trauma Assessment Center in Kalamazoo and a professor at Western Michigan University.

Over the years, Henry has published more than 20 articles in professional journals and makes presentations at national and international conferences on the traumatic impact of child maltreatment.

“I was privileged to work for him as a school interventionist for four years,” Blashill said. “He has extensive experience in the children's services area and teaches at WMU in the Social Work department as well as training children's services workers, mental health workers, foster parents, and others about the effects of trauma. He has been a keynote speaker for many conferences, is fascinating to listen to, and has a tremendous command of the physical and psychological development of children.”

After Henry's speech, expo participants will be able to choose from 16 workshops featuring such topics as bullying prevention, social media and internet safety, getting children to try new foods, talking to children about sex, money management, suicide prevention, and the importance of play in learning.

“Sherry Bennett of the Van Buren Intermediate School District along with the Expo Steering Committee decided on the workshops,” Blashill said.  “Each person on the steering committee is involved with families and children in some way and has contributed their knowledge and expertise to the selection process.  We also asked for parental input during the open houses at the South Haven schools in 2016 and incorporated these suggestions into the list of workshops.”

The workshops will be led by speakers with professional experience in each of the topics that they will be speaking about. The Social Media/Internet Safety workshop, for instance, will be led by Det. Gerald Yott of the Michigan State Police Computer Crimes Unit, while Kelly Ellis of Water's Edge Counseling Services, will lead the workshop titled, “ADHD- How you Can Help.”

In addition to providing the keynote speech, Henry will also lead two workshops titled, “Compassion Fatique: How to Keep Yourself Healthy” and “Childhood Anxiety.”

Parents interested in taking part in the expo, can register online at .www.freshtix.com/events/kiwanis-parenting-expo

Kiwanis Parenting Expo workshops

• Suicide Prevention: Tracy Fay of Van Buren Community Mental Health Authority will provide practical ways to identify someone who may have suicide behavior, how to see the warning signs and get help for someone in crisis.

• Importance of Play in Learning: Liz Albertson, author of “C'mon Everybody, Let's Play,” will share the importance of play in learning for all children. Ideas and activities will be shared that allow family to discover fun and time for family bonding.

• Money Management: Maria Zavala-Paredes, a certified housing counselor for Telamon Corp., will give tips on how people can achieve their financial goals and alleviate financial problems.

• Getting Children to Try New Foods: Wendy Syswerda of the Van Buren Intermediate School Districts Project LEAN Nutrition program, will discuss how parents can stay on a budget while getting their children to try new foods.

• Conscious Discipline: Amanda Vankosky of Tri-County Head Start will introduce participants to the concepts of Conscious Discipline, which is designed to help parents respond to daily conflicts in a positive way, while teaching life skills to children.

• Social Media/Internet Safety: Det. Gerald Yott from the Michigan State Police Computer Crimes Unit, will help families know how to reduce online safety risks to children.

• Childhood Trauma: Dr. Jim Henry, founder and director of the Children's Trauma Assessment Center in Kalamazoo, will discuss the difference between childhood trauma and childhood anxiety

• Make it Take it: Activities for Parents and Children: A family educator from the Fmily Links Home Visiting Program, will show participants how families can use everyday objects to create fun and educational opportunities for children.

• ADHD - How You Can Help: Kelly Ellis of Water's Edge Counseling Services, will show parents how they can use patience, compassion, and support to help their children reduce the symptoms of ADD or ADHD.

• Bullying Prevention: Amy Foster of the Van Buren Domestic Violence Coalition will show how parents can play a key role in preventing and responding to instances of bullying in their child's school and community.

• Compassion Fatigue: Dr. Jim Henry will talk with parents and caregivers about how they can deal with burnout that comes from caring for children, especially children with special needs.

• The Importance of Reading to Children: This session will show how reading with children is important from infancy through high school.

• Credit Repair: Maria Zavala-Paredes will give practical steps on how people can identify and repair their credit.

• Talking to Children About Sex: Sandy VanderRoest of South Haven Public Schools will teach parents how they can answer their child's questions in an honest, age-appropriate way.

• Families and Nature: Teresa Klan of the Family Links Home Visiting Program will show how families can connect with each other by enjoying the outdoors, whether it's in a backyard, park, or other natural areas.

• Strength-Based Parenting: Dawn M. Conroy will discuss how parents can help their children discover their natural talents.





7.17.17

The greenhouse effect

South Haven Schools lands federal grant to convert two old buses into innovative greenhouses and to expand its Farm to School program

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

Two out-of-service yellow buses that traveled many miles taking children to school, now have another purpose - providing fresh produce to students. 

The USDA recently announced that South Haven Public Schools has been selected to receive a Farm to School grant designed to increase the amount of local foods served in schools. Sixty-five projects were chosen nationwide.

“We were awarded $98,264 total, and I believe this is the largest nutrition grant ever awarded to the district,” said Food Services Director Amy Nichols who wrote the grant with help from Chris Flood, a nutritionist at Bronson South Haven.

The “Farming with Kids Matters” project is a collaborative effort between the school and the hospital. The money will be used to convert the buses into mobile greenhouses, improve nutritional education and increase the amount of locally grown food offered in school meals.

The greenhouses, when completed, will be stationed in the Rambling Roots garden at Baseline Middle School and will help extend the growing season as well as increase crop yields. 

Part of the money will also be used for Agri-tourism field trips for elementary school students.

“Farming with Kids ” really does matter and we are thankful to the USDA for the opportunity to bring this creative learning approach to our district,” said district Superintendent Dr. Robert Herrera.

According to the 2015 USDA Farm-to-School census, schools with strong farm-to-school programs report higher school meal participation, reduced food waste, and increased willingness of the students to try new foods, such as fruits and vegetables.

In the 2013-2014 school year alone, school districts, nationwide, purchased more than $789 million in local food from farmers, ranchers, fishermen, food processors and manufacturers. Nearly half of those districts plan to purchase even more local foods in future school years.

“Increasing the amount of local foods in America’s schools is a win-win for everyone,” said Cindy Long, Deputy Administrator for Child Nutrition Programs at USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, which administers the Department’s school meals programs. “Farm-to-school projects foster healthy eating habits among America’s school-age children, and local economies are nourished, as well, when schools buy the food they provide from local producers.”

School maintenance workers will dismantle the insides of the buses this summer. Skylights will be installed in the ceilings and raised beds will be added on the inside. Bus heaters will be used to lengthen the growing season. The grant also covers the cost of transporting students to the garden for planting and harvesting, hiring a nutrition educator and farm-to-school specialist. Bronson South Haven will help create a Farming Matters to Kids curriculum and implement it.

“We are proud to be able to build upon our reputation as a champion of farm to school, nutrition, and wellness,” said Nichols. “This grant will bring our entire district together around farming and farm to school. With the addition of the rolling greenhouses, we will be able to increase the production and consumption of locally grown foods for years to come.”

PHOTO: South Haven Public Schools was selected recently to receive a USDA Farm-to-School grant that will convert two unused school buses into greenhouses, improve nutritional education and increase the amount of locally grown food offered in school meals. The “Farming with Kids Matters” project, which was submitted by Food Service Director Amy Nichols, was one of 65 nationwide that the USDA chose to fund this year. Superintendent Dr. Robert Herrera, left, and Amy Nichols stand in front of one of the buses that will be converted. 

6.26.17

Bangor Schools lands $124,000 grant to buy Chromebooks

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

BANGOR — Currently, Bangor Public School district students who live in rural areas can't do online assignments at home because they lack access to high-speed internet. But that could soon change.

T-Mobile, a provider of wireless voice, messaging, and data services throughout the United States, has given Bangor Public Schools a $124,000 Technology Mobile Empowerment Grant to purchase up to 500 Chromebook computers which will be equipped to give students access to high-speed internet when they're away from school.

“We want to give our students greater opportunities to expand their use of educational technology and to incorporate 21st Century learning skills,” said Dennis Paquette, chief operating officer for the school district.

School officials became aware of T-Mobile's technology grant program when Community Education Director Lynn Johnson was talking with T-Mobile staff about a different project for several of his online education programs.

Johnson then told the district's Technology Director Dawn Everett, and the two along with Paquette began the process of applying for the funding.

“We have been working diligently on this grant for about a month and a half,” Paquette said.

Originally, school district officials had asked funding for 225 mobile devices. So they were pleasantly surprised when T-Mobile stretched the grant to include up to 500 Chromebooks. The company also will provide up to 500 devices that will provide a high-speed internet connection for the computers. The company will charge a $10 monthly fee for the wifi connection for the computers with 20 percent of the total internet connections provided at no cost.

Paquette said it will still need to be determined if the students would pay for the monthly fee or the school district, and district officials still need to figure out which grade levels will receive the new Chromebooks to enhance their classroom curriculum.

Mobile computer devices have become more and more common in schools over the past five years as America transitions to digital-based curriculum versus the use of textbooks.

Ideally, school districts would like to have a computer device for each students, but that's difficult for some school districts that don't have the extra monetary resources to do that. But Paquette said the $124,000 grant from T-Mobile will go a long way toward helping the school district.

“This (grant) will put us at about two devices per three kids,” he said. “This is going to impact our students and our district in a positive way.”

6.12. 17

South Haven graduating seniors receive awards, scholarships

South Haven High School's class of 2017 took part in graduation ceremonies, June 4.

 The following seniors were honored with awards and scholarships:

• Top Honor graduates (Cumulative GPA 3.750 or above. *Denotes 4.000 or above): Desiree Brown*, Danielle Giles, Jonbrielle Gill *, Katherine Hasted *, Chyanne Himel, Taylor Huggins *, Samantha Joines, Samantha Martin, Yadira Meneses *, Noah Moriarty *, Jesse Morrison, Allie Remick* Hayden Sardina *, Tresa Sell *, Joe Wilkins *, Anthony Wise *
• Purple & Gold Honor Cord recipients (Cumulative GPA 3.00 or above): Carsen Boyd, Skyler Brady, Desiree Brown*, Keonna Bryant, Jessica Byers, Jessica Calderon, Veronica Corona, Edward DeLong, Jordan Denbow, Jonathan Deschaine, Emily Essmyer, John Filbrandt, Josue Garcia, Bryce Gargus, Juliet Gibson, Danielle Giles, Jonbrielle Gill*, Dylan Goff, Carlos Guzman, Katherine Hasted*, Chyanne Himel, Taylor Huggins*, Samantha Joines, Mariah Jones, David Kluskowski, Corey Lawson, Jordan Lucas, Samantha Martin, Jared McCloughan, Kadeisha McIntosh, Yadira Meneses*, Noah Moriarty*, Jesse Morrison, Nicole Munjoy, Brynn Murdock, Nicholas Postema, Ashley Price, Allie Remick*, Alondra Ruiz, Hayden Sardina*, Tresa Sell*, Seth Smith, Benjamin Venner, Cameron Watkins, Joe Wilkins*, Anthony Wise*
• YES Program White Service cords (For completing 20 hours or more of Community Service): Edward DeLong, John Filbrandt, Josue Garcia, Katherine Hasted, Taylor Huggins, Kadeisha McIntosh, Brynn Murdock, Ashley Price, Hayden Sardina
• Donor For Life awards: Edward DeLong, Dylan Goff, Yadira Meneses, Benjamin Venner
• Board of Education Awards: Gold Bar (Senior year GPA 3.5 or higher through 1st semester): Carsen Boyd, Desiree Brown, Jessica Byers, Jessica Calderon, Cameron Clemons, Kendall Cunningham, Jordan Denbow, Jonathan Deschaine, Tuwana Dirden, Emily Essmyer, John Filbrandt, Josue Garcia, Juliet Gibson, Danielle Giles, Jonbrielle Gill, Katherine Hasted, Chyanne Himel, Taylor Huggins, Quinn Johnson, Samantha Joines, Jordan Lucas, Samantha Martin, Jared McCloughan, Kadeisha McIntosh, Yadira Meneses, Noah Moriarty, Jesse Morrison, Nicole Munjoy, Brynn Murdock, Nicholas Postema, Kiandra Raday, Allie Remick, Alondra Ruiz, Hayden Sardina, Tresa Sell, Seth Smith, Joe Wilkins, Anthony Wise. Silver Bar (Senior year GPA 3.2-3.499 through 1st semester): Isabella Alleman, Shylanta Beck, Jonathon Byers, Veronica Corona, Edward DeLong, Bryce Gargus, Luz Gonzalez, Mariah Jones, Cory Lawson, Olivia McSpadden, Caitlynn Morgan, Zachary Rouse, Rachel Soderquist, Jacie Stigler
•  

College scholarship winners

• Albion College: Taylor Huggins -Trustee $108,000 & Alumni Connection $4,000; Jacie Stigler -Kresge $68,000, Institutional Commitment $92,000 & Alumni Connection $4,000.
• Baker College: Nicole Munjoy - Tuition ~ $40,000, Career $6,400 & Housing $4,000.
• Central Michigan University: Keyonna Bryant - Freshman Grant $6,280 .
• Eastern Michigan University: Edward DeLong - Education First Full Tuition; Kadisha McIntosh - Emerald $16,000; Olivia McSpadden -Achievement $20,000; Ashley Price -Education First Full Tuition.
• Grand Valley State University: Seth Smith -Freshman Grant $4,400.
• Indiana Wesleyan University: Hayden Sardina - Academic $48,000, Football $40,000.
• Lake Michigan College: Jolie Brower -Red Hawk $500; Jessica Calderon - Board of Trustees $2,000 and Red Hawk $250.
• Lourdes University: Bryce Gargus -Presidential, Community, Wolf Grant, Honors/Scholars Housing & Men’s Baseball $25,000.
• Michigan Competitive Scholarship (Achieved an SAT score of 1,200 or higher): Desiree’ Brown, Samuel Farrell, Jonbrielle Gill, Katherine Hasted, Taylor Huggins, Jonathon Marcoux, Noah Moriarty, Hayden Sardina, Benjamin Venner, Anthony Wise
• Michigan State University: Anthony Wise -Spartan Achievement $16,000.
• Michigan Technological University: Katherine Hasted -Presidential Excellence $18,000, Student Award $40,000 & Supplemental University Student Award $4,000; Anthony Wise- Presidential Excellence $18,000.
• Northern Michigan University: Desiree Brown -Achievement Level 3 $12,000; Samantha Joines -Achievement Level 2 $8,000.
• Oakland University: John Filbrandt - Geographic Region Award $6,000.
• Taylor University: Hayden Sardina -Academic $48,000.
• University of Michigan: Katherine Hasted -LSA $40,000 & Noyes La Verne SDN $16,000.
• University of Toledo: Nicholas Postema -$60,000.
• Valparaiso University: Noah Moriarty -Presidential $88,000.
• Wayne State University: Jonathon Deschaine -Green Scholarship $10,000.

Other scholarship awards

• AAUW Memorial Scholarshi: Keoanna Bryant, Alondra Ruiz and Jacie Stigler
• Albemarle Scholrship: Jessica Byers, Jonathon Byers, Katherine Hasted, Haryden Sardina, Joe Wilkins and Anthony Wise
• Bronson South Haven Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship: Katherine Hasted, Hayden Sardina and Tresa Sell
• Brook Krogel Memorial Scholarship: Samantha Joines and Keonna Bryant
• Burger King Scholarship: Hayden Sardina
• Consumers Credit Union Scholarship: Taylor Huggins and Allie Remick
• Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarship: Taylor Huggins
• Devon Leave A Legacy Scholarship: Jesse Morrison, Jessica Price and Joe Wilkins
• Elks Scholarship: Taylor Huggins
• Filbrandt Family Funeral Home Scholarship: Jonathan Deschaine, David Kluskowski and Yadira Meneses
• Grace J. Calvin Scholarship: Edward DeLong, Jonbrielle Gill, Samantha Joines, Samantha Martin, Allie Remick, Tresa Sell, Anthony Wise
• History Club/Equestrian Scholarship: Anthony Wise
• Johnson Controls Inc Scholarship: Anthony Wise
• South Haven Kiwanis Club scholarship: Allie Remick and Katherine Hasted
• Lake Michigan College Scholarships: Jolie Brower and Jessica Calderon
• Maner-Costerisan Scholarship: Taylor Huggins
• Mason Scholarship: Samantha Martin
• Michiana 2 Cylindar Club Scholarship: Samantha Joines
• Miss and Mr. South Haven Scholarships: Carsen Boyd and Josue Garcia
• National Blueberry Festival Scholarship: Samantha Joines
• Peace Lutheran Church Mission Endowment Scholarship: Jessica Price
• Phi Delta Kappa-Michigan Chapter Scholarship: Taylor Huggins
• South Haven Athletic Ram Boosters: Brynn Murdock
• South Haven Community Memorial Scholarship: Carsen Boyd, Keonna Bryant, Jonbrielle Gill, Samantha Joines, Anthony WiseConsumersSouth Haven Family Dentistry Science Award: Joe Wilkins
• Van Buren County Association of School Boards: Allie Remick
• Vibracoustic Scholarship: Jesse Morrison

Other Awards

• Senior athlete awards: Carsen Boyd, Jolie Brower, Jonathon Byers, Kendall Cunningham, Edward DeLong, Jordan Denbow, Jonathan Deschaine, Tuwana Dirden, Emily Essmyer, John Filbrandt, Deyonna Gaines, Bryce Gargus, Dylan Goff, Katherine Hasted, Chyanne Himel, Taylor Huggins, Bryston Jerch, Quinn Johnson, David Kluskowski, Jordan Lucas, Jonathon Marcoux, Samantha Martin, Jesse Morrison, Nicole Munjoy, Brynn Murdock, Nicholas Postema, Ashley Price, Kiandra Raday, Alondra Ruiz, Hayden Sardina, Tresa Sell, Nele Ullmann, Cameron Watkins, Joe Wilkins
• Art awards: Jessica Byers, Samantha Joines, Mariah Jones, Samantha Martin, Yadira Meneses, DaMari Palmer
• Band awards: Josue Garcia, Juliet Gibson, Dylan Goff, Katherine Hasted, Chyanne Himel, Allie Remick, Olanikee Taylor, Anthony Wise
• Orchestra awards: Kadeisha McIntosh, Oliva McSpadden, Jesse Morrison, Seth Smith
• Choir Awards: Zachary Alm, Veronica Corona, Jonathan Deschaine, John Filbrandt, David Kluskowski, Yadira Meneses, Zachary Rouse, Cain Severens
• Chorale Awards: Veronica Corona, John Filbrandt, Yadira Meneses, Zachary Rouse
• Women's Chorus Awards: Tuwana Dirden, Deyonna Gaines, Jasmine Howell
• Drama Student Awards: Zachary Alm, Erica Bidol, Keonna Bryant, Jessica Byers, Veronica Corona, Edward DeLong, Jordan Denbow,J onathan Deschaine, John Filbrandt, Deyonna Gaines, Jonbrielle Gill, Dylan Goff, Maya Hammond, Taylor Huggins, Samantha Martin, Olivia McSpadden, Yadira Meneses, Jesse Morrison, Allie Remick, Hayden Sardina
• Outstanding Drama Student Award: John Filbrandt
• Student Government awards: Edward DeLong – President, Jonbrielle Gill - Vice President, Ashley Price – Treasurer, Carsen Boyd – Secretary. Representatives: Jordan Denbow, Taylor Huggins, Hayden Sardina, Benjamin Venner, Anthony Wise
• National Honor Society awards: Carsen Boyd, Keyonna Bryant, Jordan Denbow, John Filbrandt, Jonbrielle Gill, Dylan Goff, Katherine Hasted, Taylor Huggins, Mariah Jones, David Kluskowski, Jordan Lucas, Samantha Martin, Kadeisha McInosh, Noah Moriarty, Jesse Morrison, Brynn Murdock, Nicholas Postema, Ashley Price, Allie Remick, Hayden Sardina, Tresa Sell, Joe Wilkins, Anthony Wise
• Newspaper Awards: Jonathan Deschaine, John Filbrandt, David Kluskowski, Yadira Meneses
• Yearbook Awards: Edward DeLong, Josue Garcia, Caitlynn Morgan, Rachel Soderquist
• History Club award: Anthony Wise
• Key Club award: Katherine Hasted, Allie Remick
• Quiz Bowl awards: Katherine Hasted, Antony Wise
• Jan Holmes Sportsmanship Award:  Taylor Huggins
• Dale Patterson Sportsmanship Award: Jesse Morrison
• Most Outstanding Male Athlete: Kendall Cunningham
• Most Outstanding Female Athlete:  Brynn Murdock
• Wolverine Conference Scholar-Athlete Award: Hayden Sardina and Katherine Hasted
• Critic Cup Award: Taylor Huggins
• Principal's Award: Olanikee Taylor.

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