school matters fall 2012

School MattersLATE FALL 2012

Wow!

BOARD OF EDUCATION ELECTION WINNERS: JENNIFER LOFTUS, JOHN ARTZ & SCOTT CORBIN

2012 Lady Trojan Swim

& Dive 10th Consecutive

Conference Champions2012 Lady Trojan Volleyball District Champions

2012 Varsity Football MHSAA Playoff Qualifier

2012 Varsity Soccer Conference

Champs

2012 Lady Trojan Cross Country Conference Co-Champs

2012 Lady Trojan Golf Conference Champs

2 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

Leadership in a school district covers a broad spectrum of responsibilities and financial stewardship is one of the most

important. Part of this responsibility in-volves bonds and the fiduciary duty of the Board of Education to reduce debt at ev-ery opportunity. The District has refunded bonds many times to reduce the interest rate on the funds we borrow, thereby reduc-ing, the tax burden to our citizens. Recently, the Board of Education was presented with a legal issue related to refunding bonds for our District. With interest rates at a historic low, the Board of Education passed resolutions in May and September to refund $9,660,000 in bonds to the State. The conservative projected savings to taxpayers is $650,000 and it could be as much as $1,500,000. Plainwell Community Schools participates in the State of Michigan School Bond Loan Fund (SBLF) and we asked the SBLF to al-low us to refinance our debt at a lower inter-est rate. Because of our participation in the SBLF, the State of Michigan Department of Treasury qualities (authorizes) the refund-ing of the bonds. The Treasury Department denied our most recent request. The Board of Education then passed a revised resolu-tion which authorized our financial advisers to refinance our bonds with a private inves-tor and we were offered a good interest rate. The Treasury Department still would not qualify the refunding, as presented by our financial advisers. Apparently, at issue for the Treasury De-partment is a concept called “mandatory loan repayment date.” Due to the decrease in property values, over which we have no control, the amount of money raised by our millage is less than in previous years. How-ever, a lower interest rate would get us clos-er to the repayment date than our current rate and it would save our taxpayers money. Refunding the bonds would also allow us to reduce our debt to the State of Michigan. The Treasury, however, will only approve the refunding if the District agrees to raise

the millage rate from the current 7 mills to 8.31 mills. lt should be noted that, prior to our District applying to refund our bonds, the Department of Treasury approved the refunding of bonds for two other Michigan school districts this summer although nei-ther would meet their mandatory repay-ment date. The Board of Education believes that the only requirement that is necessary by stat-ue to refund bonds is that the District be able to prove present value savings to the taxpayers. Such a savings is indisputable in our situation. The Board believes that the Treasury Department’s position violates the State Constitution and other school finance statutes which give us the right to borrow, reduce our debt to the State, and reduce the burden to our taxpayers. On September 24, 2012, the Board of Ed-ucation unanimously passed a motion to re-tain a legal firm to pursue any necessary liti-gation with the State of Michigan related to the refinancing of our bonds. A complaint was filed on October 25 in Circuit Court in Ingham County. A hearing is scheduled for November 8, at which the Court will be re-quested by our Board to allow our proposed refinancing. At the time of this writing, I do not know the outcome of these proceedings. I do know that the Board of Education has taken a strong stand on behalf of all the taxpayers in our District. We believe there is a clear right and wrong in this situation and the Board of Education is acting as good finan-cial stewards on behalf of all of us. When this matter is settled, I will be communicat-ing the decision to everyone via the web-site. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to Plainwell Community Schools. n

Good Financial Stewards

–

Susan Wakefield, SuperintendentPlainwell Community Schools

CALENDARof EVENTS

November 21-23THANKSGIVING RECESS

November 28All Students 1/2 Day

End of 1st Trimester

November 30Christmas Tree Lighting

with music at 6:30 p.m.

December 1Christmas Parade

1:00 p.m.

December 24- January 4HOLIDAY RECESS

January 17HS P/T Conferences • 4-8 pm

February 21All Students 1/2 Day

February 22NO SCHOOL

March 5Grade 11 Students Only

No K-10, 12

March 13All Students 1/2 Day

End of 2nd Trimester

March 29NO SCHOOL

April 1-5SPRING BREAK

April 18HS P/T Conferences • 4-8 pm

May 27NO SCHOOL

June 7Last Day of School 1/2 Day

End of 3rd Trimester

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

T here’s a new feeling at Plainwell Middle School this year. As you walk down the hall between class-

es, you’ll see teachers and students smiling and greeting each other. Teachers stand at their doorways and shake hands with each student as they enter, welcoming them to class. Amid the rush to class, one student shoves past an-other to get to his locker and a third student gives him a hand sign that means check your behavior, you’re not acting ac-cording to our social contract which is to treat each other re-spectfully. What’s going on here? Smil-ing and happy teenagers? Teenagers reminding other teenagers to behave properly in school? Well...what’s hap-pening is a new program at our middle school called Capturing Kids’ Hearts. Through a three day training in August, this program provided our teachers and administrators with the experience and tools to build positive, productive, and trusting relationships with each other and students. With students feeling val-ued and respected by their teachers and by each other, they are then more mo-tivated to learn and excel. Independent studies found that schools implement-

ing Capturing Kids’ Hearts experienced a 22% decrease in office referrals and an 11% decrease in failing grades (Sher-wood 2003 and Danaher 2006). In a sum-mary of these studies, the Flippen Group writes: Pro-social skills and competencies (respect, caring concern for others, com-

municative competences, citizenship, and problem solving) increased significantly in the intervention schools compared with the outcomes in control schools. One of the best parts of my job is vis-iting and coaching teachers in their first 5 years, so I have had the opportunity this fall to spend an hour in several class-rooms with teachers who are using the techniques from Capturing Kids’ Hearts. I can personally attest to the positive feel-ing tone, excellent student behavior, and

engaging lessons that result from skilled teachers using and adopting these tech-niques. Another program from the same group that developed Capturing Kids’ Hearts is called Teen Leadership. Teen Leadership is an elective course that teaches students

to take responsibility, trust them-selves, and handle problems and decisions when they arise. Stu-dents also learn public speaking and communication skills, how to make principled decisions, rec-ognize and resist peer pressure, and understand the need for personal and professional goal setting. Two excellent teachers, Bob Farris and Jason Herbert, took a workshop and became certified this sum-mer to teach this program; and we are now running Teen Leadership

classes as an elective for 7th and 8th grade students. Students in these classes are ex-cited and motivated and learning some wonderful skills that will serve them well all of their lives. Through these two programs, Plainwell Middle School is making a strong com-mitment to be the best school we can be for our young people; and it’s exciting to see how these new programs are already showing positive results. n

Plainwell Middle School is CapturingKids’ Hearts and Building Teen Leaders

If you would like to advertise in Plainwell Community Schools’ School Matters, please contact Bonnie Pfingst at 685-5823 or [email protected] for more information.

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

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

Several students from Renaissance High School took time out of their busy school day to share stories with students from Starr Elementary and

Gilkey Elementary in October. These photos show (L): Jamie Rutherford and (R) Jasmine McNees reading to student groups from Mrs. Reed’s class.

Local Induction Ceremony for PHS Band Director

Accepted into American School Band Directors Association (ASBDA)

This spring, Paul Mundo, Plainwell High School Band Director received his let-

ter of acceptance into the American School Band Directors Association (ASBDA). At this year’s Winter Band Concert it will be made official. Jim Hewitt (former director of bands at Otsego, director of the River Cities Concert Band, and longtime director of the Plainwell Music Society) will be on hand Wednesday, December 12 at 7:00 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center to present Mr. Mundo with the honor. ASBDA draws together the finest minds and best teachers nationally for the purpose of helping influence the direction and further-ing the cause of good music in the nation’s schools. n

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2012 Trojan HomecomingKing & Queen

The Plainwell student body selected Max Tustin, the son of Katie Tustin and Aubrey Tran, the daughter of Jan Whyte-Tran and Ron Tran, to rule over the 2012 Homecoming festivities on Friday, September 28th.

Congratulations to our Trojan Marching Band on a Great 2012 Season!

Otsego Band Invitational: 3rd PlaceMSBOA District XI Band Festival: Division I (Superior) RatingLakeshore Band Invitational: 2nd Place and Best Color Guard,

Awards of Excellence in Music, Percussion & Color GuardJenison Band Invitational: 3rd Place

Walt Disney World Electric Parade 2013 Spring Break: By audition, highly-competitive

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

7th grader, Ali, greets her fellow class-mates as they enter the room. This is a

day like any other in Mr. Farris’ 2nd hour Teen Leadership class, with one differ-ence, today there is a special guest. The screen at the front of the room reads, “Welcome Mayor Brooks,” with an inspirational Lil Wayne quote at the bot-tom: “I don’t need it to be easy, I just need it to be worth it.” Plainwell Middle School has undergone many changes in the past year. One of these has been the adoption of the na-tional program “Capturing Kids’ Hearts” – thanks to middle school Principal Gary Barton, Superintendent Sue Wakefield and Curriculum Director Bob VanDis. Becoming a leader, even as a teenager, and developing Social Contracts, are part of “Capturing Kids’ Hearts.” Bob Farris and Jason Herbert are both teaching Teen Leadership this year and so far the class has been a welcome addition to the middle school cur-

riculum. Each class has their own Social Contract. Part of creating the contract is realizing that not everyone may share your views and opinions but in order for things to run smoothly and move forward you need to agree on some basic rules. The class is empowered to govern itself and keep each other in check by using hand signals. Every period opens with 2 or 3 students sharing a positive experi-ence with the rest of the class. Each posi-tive fact is followed up by the entire class clapping twice. Elyse stated that her vol-leyball team had won their game against Allegan last night. Mayor Brooks replied, “It’s always good to beat Allegan.” Clap. Clap. Paige said she was excited to be in a parade this coming weekend. “I love a parade,” answered the Mayor. Clap. Clap. Mayor Brooks shared the road he had taken to become mayor. He joined City Council in the 90s and was elected mayor

in 2000. Weeks later, the paper mill closed. Bringing the city back to where it should be has been a struggle but Mayor Brooks is finally beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel with the road construction and building growth at the mill, which is now owned by the city. He added, “Literally, on this day, we are opening a new Public Safety building at

the west end of the mill.” A typical week for the mayor isn’t at all typical. It’s different each day, every week. City Manager, Erik Wilson, keeps him posted on everything he needs to know and Mayor Brooks adds that Mr. Wilson is one of the smartest people he knows and “one of the greatest city managers we’ve ever had.” The mayor doesn’t keep an of-fice to speak of, but spends 3 or 4 days a week at City Hall. “One or two times a week I attend board meetings, some in the mornings, some in the evenings. I have a wedding to officiate on Saturday. Next Wednesday, I meet with Hands 2 Hands.” Mr. Farris chimes in throughout the discussion, around what Mayor Brooks is saying and doing. He points out traits of a true leader: sitting on various boards and councils, wearing many hats, greeting people with a handshake, and volunteer-ing time. Mayor Brooks adds, “I guarantee that five or six of you will be on a board at some point in your life, and you should. You need a diverse group of people to form a great council.” In closing, the mayor tells the class they should remember to volunteer their time and adds, “I don’t know if you know, but you live in the best community in south-west Michigan.” We know it, Mayor Brooks - thanks to you! n

The list of vIsitors to the Teen Leaderships classes continues to grow. Dr. Wright, Principal of Plainwell High School, Mrs. Wakefield, Superintendent and community member, Liz Jones, have all shared life & career experiences as well as training students to identify character strengths/weaknesses and tips on working well with others. ! {

Focus On: TEEN LEADERSHIP{ }


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

There’s soon to be something new at Starr Elementary!

Starr will have a “Kids’ Cabinet!” This cabinet will stock underwear,

socks, hair brushes and combs, tooth brushes, tooth paste and

other personal care products kids may need but parents find dif-

ficult to purchase. Starr was able to create this cabinet thanks to a very generous donation. Teachers will have access to this cabinet for their students and a parent may

also request items but must come to the school to pick them up. The staff at Starr is grateful to have the

opportunity to help our families in a new way. The cabinet will be

ready by mid-November.

Kids’CabinetSTARR

Mrs. Battilana’s 5th graders and Mrs. Fillar’s Kindergarteners are collecting cans and bottles to raise money for children

in Bosnia. Mrs. Fillar’s daughter will be traveling to Bosnia in June and will be using the money to purchase medical supplies from Perrigo, arts and craft supplies, vitamins, and socks for Bosnian children. The collection dates will be November 5 - November 16. For more information please visit www.jerichofoundation.org

Cooper Elementary’s Koala Fun Run was held on the most beau-tiful day of the fall, Thursday, October 4. The top earners from

each grade level had the opportunity to throw a pie in Mr. Pet-tit’s face! Pie throwers were: Annesa Jaeger, Beau Carr, Ryan Reid, Loghan Schoenrock, Maureen Belcher and Chris Sellers. The stu-dents had a great time at the event and looked wonderful in their snazzy Koala Fun Run tshirts. Thanks to the Cooper Parents Club and all of our supportive families!

Gilkey Elementary Fall Cleanup

Many hands make light work. Gilkey Elementary would like to thank all of the helpers who turned out for their Annual Fall Cleanup. Teachers, students, parents and community members all pitched

in to make the playgrounds, flower beds, gardens and nature lab ready for winter. Thanks again to all who lended a hand and donated their time!

Ben and Sophia Cox (and their dad) give Mrs. Pendola an extra hand with cleaning out the flower beds


AT H L E T I C N E W S

CROSS COUNTRYHaley BettsLuke BoulterRachel BuckMakenzie EversCara Minto

SWIM & DIVEMolly BoylanMallory ComerfordBlair CornellAbby ErnstKelsey ErnstKarlee GauthierAaryn JewellKim JonesVeronica KleinJessica NybergKaitlin OakesNastia RigginAlly Seiler

Emma SeilerTeresa ThielEvelyn UsmanovaAudrey VanderBoonMegan VanderBoonKaralyn VanSlamBrouck

FOOTBALLRyan BrittonAlex CorbinAnthony DavisCJ EnglandGraham HubbellZach LaPointeJason McCauslinGrant PellChance TerryTyler White

VOLLEYBALLMelanie HyamesKerry Swain

SOCCERNick JonesDavis KarklinsElliot LoftusJD NordAlex PylatZac RushDerek SnyderJeremy Young

TENNISJan Krakora

GOLFAbbie LosiewskiKatlin O’ConnellDarby Wagner

REMINDER:The PHS Athletic Department

would like to remind every-

one that if Plainwell hosts or is

chosen to host any Wolverine

Conference or MHSAA play-

off event, Plainwell All-Sport

Passes, Plainwell Community

School Employee ID Passes,

Wolverine Conference Passes

and Senior Citizen Passes

should be aware that those

passes are NOT valid for entry

into conference or MHSAA

events. Those passes are only

valid for Plainwell Community

School sponsored events.

WOLVERINE ALL-CONFERENCE• 2012-13 •


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

Plainwell Community Education & Recreation

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE NOW!Contact the Community Ed. Office today at 685-9531

winter youth recreation

BASKETBALL SKILLS CAMPGrades K - 6Each Saturday, the same pool of players will be divided up differently. Phone call reminders will not be made. Please attend the practice on March 5th at the assigned time for your grade level. (No Camp March 30 & April 6 due to Spring Break).Date: Saturdays • March 2-April 20, 2013Time: 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. - K, 1st, 2nd, & 3rd 11:00 to 1:00 p.m. - 4th, 5th & 6thLocation: Plainwell Middle SchoolCost: $52.00 $37.00 for Gun Plain Twp. ResidentsInstructors: Coaches Klein, Rieman & staffAll registrations are done online or you can stop by your school or community ed office. No sign ups at camp. Registration deadline is Wednesday, February 20th.

FATHER/DAUGHTER VALENTINE DANCEInformation will be re-leased in January via fliers and our website www.plainwellschools.org. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us at (269) 685-9531.Date: Saturday, February 9Time: 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Location: PMS Gym

TAE KWON DO Ages 7 to 107Tae Kwon Do is a 200 year old martial art and it is the national sport of Korea. It is a dynamic form of self-defense and

an excellent means of physical fitness for men, women and children of all ages. This form of martial art includes physical techniques, mental discipline and a deep philosophy. Improve coordination, gain strength, and increase your flexibility while learning self-defense techniques from an ancient Korean martial art form. Tae Kwon Do is appropriate for kids and adults of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels. Come by yourself, with a friend, or bring the whole family for fun and fitness. Class is open to all - age 7 and older.Date: Mondays • January 7 - March 25, 2013Time: 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.Location: Hicks Gym, 311 Hicks StreetCost: $42.00 individual $67.00 familyInstructors: Huong TranAll registrations are done online or you can stop by your school or community ed office. Registration deadline is December 20, 2012

Sponsored by Plainwell Community Schools and Gun Plain Township

A Gift for

Program

From

Date


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



REGISTER ONLINEVisit www.plainwellschools.org. Click on the Our District tab and choose Commu-nity Education. You can then click on the link to register and pay online using your Master Card or Visa, or in person at the Community Education office. A dropbox is

available or mail your registration form to Plainwell Community Education.

One registration form per participant, please.

Name __________________________________________________________ Township _____________

Address _________________________________________CIty____________________ Zip __________

Child’s Age___________________________ Grade Entering___________________________________

Parents Name__________________________________________Phone__________________________

Email _________________________________________________________________________________

Activity_________________________________________Session #______________Time___________



Master Card/Visa _______________________________________________ Exp. Date ___/___/___Please make checks payable to Plainwell Community Education. Mail registration form or stop by: Plainwell Community Education, 422 Acorn St., Plainwell, MI 49080 (269) 685-9531 Fax registration to (269) 685-1564.Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Closed Friday.

A NOTE FROM THE RECREATION DIRECTOR:

Bidding Farewell

I n the last School Matters, I tried to thank the countless people who have helped our recreation programs. I need to add one more to the list.

Jeff Opel, one of our friends and coaches, diligently worked with his employer, Con-sumer’s Energy to get us a $500 grant for the purchase of recreation equipment. Jeff and I talked and we decided to buy reversible jerseys to keep in our gyms during basketball season. The jerseys will be worn by one team in the event that both teams are same color. Between Plainwell, Otsego, and Martin, we often end up with similar colors playing each other. This generous donation will help keep teams (and the coaches!) separated. Thanks Consumers and Jeff! Sadly, this is my last letter as the Recreation Director. I have recently announced my res-ignation and will be handing off the torch on January 1, 2013. Being Plainwell Community School’s Recreation Director has been a wonderful experience for me and I’m really proud of how the program has grown over the four and a half years I’ve been leading it. For that reason, I’m happy that the program is being left in good hands! Bob Farris, Plainwell Middle School teacher and Middle School Athletic Director will be acting as the Interim Recreation Director. Bob brings with him almost 20 years of athletic leader-ship experience. He is just as excited as I am about the program and has wonderful ideas to continue to expand recreational opportunities in the community. Please remember the value of exercise and participation in team sports. Especially when going into the holidays, when it’s really easy to over-eat and under-exercise. I hope to see you all out and about. Until then, be well! n

– Jason Herbert


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 EDITINGThis program is for the beginner to intermediate photog-raphers. Topics will include the following: (Beginners) cam-era functions, terminology, and composition. (Intermediate) work flow, image editing, lighting. Discussions will be held 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.sean-newtonphotography.comIf you are looking to get more out of your photos and you want to find the best ways of sharing them with your fam-ily, friends and the world, this is the class for you.

Dates: Mondays & Wednesdays January 28 - February 6, 2013Time: 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.Location: Plainwell Community EdCost: $57Instructor: Sean NewtonAll registrations are done online or you can stop by your school or community ed office. No sign ups at class.Registration deadline is January 9, 2013.

CPR/First AidCPR / 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.Dates: Saturdays • January 19 & 26, 2013Time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Location: Plainwell Community EdCost: $20 renewing/$30 first timeInstructor: Dave Kuitert You must preregister online for this class and then pay at the door the first night of class. Please feel free to contact the community ed office if you have any questions.Registration deadline is January 9, 2013.

CAREER & COLLEGE FITNESSA different type of well being! Career & College Planning before high school graduation is essential in today’s economy. Open to parents and students 9th - 12th grade, this workshop will explore individual interests, values, and abilities. This class will also provide tools and resources to help determine a post secondary plan of action. For this Student/Parent workshop, the fees include both participants as the resources will be used by the student and shared with the parent.Dates: Mondays • February 11 & 18, 2013Time: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.Location: Plainwell Community EdCost: $50 per participantYou must preregister for this class online and pay at the door the first night of class. Checks must be made out to: Riverwoods Consulting (this includes student & parent as one participant. Also includes one Career Pointer book, ad-ditional books will be available for $10 each. Registration deadline is February 4, 2013.

ZUMBA® - Ladies OnlyAmy Baker is authorized to teach all of the following Zumba courses: Basic Zum-ba, Zumba Toning, Zumba-tomic for Kids, Zumba Gold

and Aqua Zumba. She has an amazing personal testimony of weight loss and life change. Now she makes it her mis-sion to help others get in shape and lose weight. Zumba fitness classes are for ages 13 and older. Amy would like to remind participants that your hour of Zumba is an hour for you. No childcare is provided, therefore young children should not attend. For more information, email [email protected], visit facebook.com/zumbawithamybaker or call (269) 271-5045.Dates: Mondays • January 7 - March 25, 2013Time: 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.Dates: Sundays • January 6 - March 24, 2013Time: 5:15 to 6:15 p.m.Location: Hicks Gym, 311 Hicks St.Cost: Any 10 classes for $50, Any 20 classes for $80 Walk-in participation available anytime - $5.Please come early to your first class to register.

AQUA ZUMBA Ladies OnlyAmy Baker is authorized to teach all of the following Zumba courses: Basic Zum-ba, Zumba Toning, Zumba-tomic for Kids, Zumba Gold

and Aqua Zumba. She has an amazing personal testimony of weight loss and life change. Now she makes it her mis-sion to help others get in shape and lose weight. Known as the “Zumba Pool Party,” Aqua Zumba gives new meaning to the idea of an invigorating workout. Splashing, stretch-ing, twisting, shouting & laughing are encouraged in the Zumba pool! This course integrates the traditional Zumba formula and philosophy with aqua fitness disciplines. It’s a safe, challenging, low-impact workout that provides cardio conditioning and body toning. Zumba fitness classes are for ages 13 and older. Amy would like to remind participants that your hour of Zumba is an hour for you. No childcare is provided, therefore young children should not attend. For more information, email [email protected], visit facebook.com/zumbawithamybaker or call (269) 271-5045.Dates: Wednesdays • January 9 - March 27, 2013 Sundays • January 6 - March 24, 2013Time: 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.Location: PMS PoolCost: Any 10 classes for $50, Any 20 classes for $80 Walk-in participation available anytime - $5.Please come early to your first class to register.

CROSS/FIT TRAININGIt’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, Cross/Fit is the program for you. Cross/Fit 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 everyone 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.Dates: Tues. & Thurs. • January 8 - February 14, 2013Time: 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.Location: Plainwell High School Weight Room (park in back of PHS)

Cost: $37 Instructor: Chase Mielke All registrations are done online or you can stop by the com-munity ed office. No sign ups at class. Registration deadline is December 20, 2012.

INDOOR WALKINGIf the Plainwell Community Schools are closed for any rea-son, Indoor Walking will be cancelled that day. Class will be on time if the school system has a delay. This program runs through May 31, 2013.Dates: Adults Only • Mondays, Wednesdays & FridaysTime: 10:00 to 10:45 a.m.Dates: Families • Tuesdays & ThursdaysTime: 10:00 to 10:45 a.m.Location: Hicks Gym, 311 Hicks St.Cost: FREE

EUCHRE - Singles or DoublesDates: TuesdaysTime: 6:45 p.m.Location: Plainwell Community Center, 798 Bridge St.Cost: Donations appreciated.

ENHANCED FITNESS CLASSClasses are offered through Borgess-Pipp Hospital and will be offered three mornings a week at Hicks Gym. The class-es are on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. To register or for more information, please contact Kathy Russell at 685-0791.Dates: Mondays, Wednesdays & FridaysTime: 9:00 to 10:00 a.m.Location: Hicks Gym, 311 Hicks St.

GOLDEN AGE PASSESIf you are 62 years of age or older, you are eligible for a Golden Age Pass Card. This card entitles you to FREE ad-mission to any home Wolverine Conference athletic event or lap swimming at Plainwell Community Schools’ pool, located in the Middle School off Starr Road. To obtain your card, please stop by either the Community Education office, located at 422 Acorn St. between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday or the Athletic Of-fice located in the back section of the High School. Why not take advantage of this opportunity to support our district athletes?

HOLIDAY SENIOR BRUNCHCome celebrate this special time of year with all of your friends at the Plainwell Performing Arts Center Atrium, lo-cated at the west end of the high school. This FREE event is one you won’t want to miss with a delicious breakfast provided by Plainwell Community Schools. Join us for some holiday cheer!Date: Thursday, December 6Time: 8:15 to 10:00 a.m.Call Bonnie at 685-5823 to sign up. See you there!

Sponsored by Plainwell Community Schools and Gun Plain Township

CONTACTS:Diane Slater, Community Ed & Rec. ........685-9531Bob Farris, Int. Recreation Director .........685-9531Bonnie Pfingst, Seniors in Action ............685-5823John Dubois, Pool Information ................685-2425Tammy Glupker, Director ........................685-1573


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

Coach John Dubois Inducted into the MHSCA

Hall of Fame

On September 16, in his 35th season as the Plainwell swim coach, John Du-

bois was inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches’ Association Hall of Fame at Central Michigan University. Coach Dubois began his career at Plain-well in 1978 where he has been a teacher, pool director and head coach for the Tro-jan Swim & Dive teams. As the men’s coach, he has compiled a record of 318-99-2 including 12 conference champion-ships, 22 top ten finishes in the state and a 1998 state championship. As the women’s coach, Dubois’ record is 352-86-2 includ-ing 14 conference championships and 15 top ten finishes in the state. Considered a leader and mentor, Coach Dubois has made an impact on thousands of children who completed his swim instruction pro-gram. He is known not only for his con-tributions to Plainwell’s swim program but also to many others in the state. n

Congratulations to the Lady Trojans Swim & Dive Team on their 10th consecutive Conference Championship! Conference Champions include Mallory Comerford,

Kim Jones, Teresa Thiel, Abby Ernst, Audrey Vanderboon, Blair Cornell, Ally Seiler

& Aaryn Jewell. The team was undefeated this season with a record of 11-0.

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If you have any ideas, comments or questions regarding the use of the Performing Arts Center, please call Bonnie at 685-5823 ext. 1011

Monday, December 3 7th & 8th Grade Winter Choir Concert 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, December 4 PMS Winter Band Concert 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 6 Cooper Holiday Concert 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 12 PHS Winter Band Concert 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 13 PHS Winter Choir Concert 7:30 p.m.

Monday, December 17 Starr 3rd & 4th Grade Winter Concert 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 19 Gilkey Winter Concert 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, January 23 PMS 6th Grade Choir Concert 7:00 p.m.

Friday, March 1 District XI Band Festival TBD

Saturday, March 2 District XI Band Festival TBD

Friday, March 22 PHS Musical 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 23 PHS Musical 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 24 PHS Musical 2:00 p.m.

Tuesday, March 26 PHS Band Clinic & Recital with Patrick Sheridan TBD

Wednesday, March 27 PHS Band Clinic & Recital with Patrick Sheridan TBD

Tuesday, April 16 Gilkey 2nd Grade Spring Concert 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 18 Cooper Spring Concert 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 20 An Evening with The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 7 PMS 7th & 8th Grade Spring Band Concert 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 14 PMS Spring Choir Concert 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, May 15 PHS Spring Choir Concert 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 16 PMS 6th Grade Spring Band Concert 7:00 p.m.

PlainwellPerforming Arts Center

2012-13 SEASON

Local Shiloh Shepards Star in Red Dawn 2012

This fall, Janet Foreman’s (PMS Cus-todian) Shiloh Shepards will be

movie stars! Shadow and Mira will star in Red Dawn 2012, a retelling of the movie originally made in 1984. Right away the director took a liking to Shad-ow and Mira and ended up giving them larger parts than originally intended. Both dogs are gentle and loving. They are also involved in providing therapy at hospitals, nursing homes, hospice and schools. For more information, visit Jan’s website at shamirashilohs.com n


SAFE and Plainwell Corners Preschool

We 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 is the answer for you! Whether you want to enroll your child for the school year or for the whole year, we can meet your needs. Check us out!

Plainwell Corners Preschool & Day Care: Prepares your child for suc-cess! A preschool offering a developmentally appropriate and fun curriculum designed for toilet-trained children who are three or four years old. Plain-well Corners is now a licensed year around program open Mondays - Fridays from 6:30 a.m. until 6 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 rate. Half-day sessions for 3-year olds are offered on M & W for $125/monthly. Half-day sessions for 4-year olds are of-fered on T, Th & F for $180/monthly.

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

Plainwell Corners/SAFE Summer Fun Camp: Thinking about Summer Fun? Call to add your name to the list for our Camps. Registration starts at the end of January!

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

For 39 years, the Plainwell Volunteer Christmas Project has organized support to help the less for-tunate families in our community. The Plainwell Volunteer Christmas Project has done this by

spearheading drives for non-perishable food items, household supplies and personal hygiene items to supplement the pantries of recipient families during the holiday season. The project also strives to provide gifts for each child who is 17 years old or younger in the recipient families. In 2011, more than 634 indivduals, 341 of which were children in 171 families were served through the project’s outreach efforts.You can help in the following ways:• Gathering new, unwrapped toys valued between $15 and $20 each. Take the gifts to the designated

drop sites, including Wal-Mart by December 14, or ask a project volunteer to pick up the items.• Make a monetary contribution that can help buy the items above.

• Help with the sorting, wrapping and packing effort starting at 3 p.m. on Friday, December 14 in the Plainwell High School Cafeteria.

To get involved or for further information, contact the 2012 Project Facilitator, Anne Conn, at (269) 720-1069 or [email protected]

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 qualify for childcare tax credits, accept DHS payments and we are approved for Flex reimbursement.

Plainwell Volunteer Christmas Project

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 & InstructionMelissa Gelbaugh .............................................Director of Finance Jeff McNutt ................................................. Director of Technology Greg Smith ...................... Director of Operations & Transportation

Board of EducationAmy Blades ......................................................................... PresidentKim Shafer ................................................................... Vice PresidentKevin Blue ........................................................................... Treasurer John Nyberg ........................................................................SecretaryJennifer Loftus .........................................................................TrusteeAl Moeller .................................................................................TrusteeChristine VanDenBerg .............................................................Trustee

Non-Profit Org.US Postage

PAIDPlainwell, Michigan

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

PLAINWELL HIGH SCHOOL 2012-13 WINTER SPORTS SCHEDULE

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

BOYS VARSITY BASKETBALLDEC. 7 Allegan* H 11 Coloma° A 14 Vicksburg* H 18 Three Rivers° H 21 Paw Paw* A 27 Zeeland Tourn. A 28 Zeeland Tourn. AJAN. 8 Middleville° A 11 Comstock* H 15 Dowagiac° A 18 Otsego° H 22 Berrien Springs° H 25 Allegan° AFEB. 1 Vicksburg° A 5 Edwardsburg° H 8 Paw Paw° H 15 Comstock° A 19 South Haven° A 22 Otsego° A 28 Conf. Playoffs HMAR. 4-8 Districts A

* 6 p.m. start ° 7:15 p.m. start

BOYS FR/JV BASKETBALLDEC. 6 Allegan A 11 Coloma A 13 Vicksburg A 18 Three Rivers H 20 Paw Paw H 27 Zeeland Tourn. A 28 Zeeland Tourn. AJAN. 8 Middleville A 10 Comstock A 15 Dowagiac A 18 Otsego H 22 Berrien Springs H 24 Allegan H 31 Vicksburg HFEB. 5 Edwardsburg H 7 Paw Paw A 14 Comstock H 19 South Haven A 22 Otsego A 28 Conf. Playoffs H

COMPETITIVE CHEERDEC. 1 Plainwell Cheer Fest H 12 Otsego Jamboree A 15 CCCAM @ Otsego AJAN. 5 South Haven Invite A 9 Comstock Jamboree A 16 Paw Paw JV Jamboree A 19 Mattawan A 23 Plainwell Jamboree H 26 Otsego Invitational AFEB. 4 Middleville Invitational A 6 Wolv. Conf. Allegan A 11 St. Joe Invitational A 15/16 Districts A 23 Regionals AMAR.1/2 State Finals A

WRESTLINGDEC. 5 Berrien Springs A 8 Sturgis Invitational A 12 Plainwell Tri. H 15 Travis Pickett Tourn. H 19 Coloma Quad A 28 Comstock JV Invite AJAN. 5 Comstock Invite A 9 Three Rivers Quad A 12 Bangor Invite A 16 Berrien Springs A 23 Otsego Quad A 26 Jenison Invitational A 30 Snow Day/Make Up AFEB. 1 Wolv. Conference JV H 2 Wolv. Conference V H 6 Team Districts H 9 Individual Districts A 13 Team Regionals A 16 Individual Regionals A 22/23 Team State Finals A2/28-3/2 Individual State Finals A

BOYS SWIM & DIVEDEC. 6 East Grand Rapids Tri. A 11 Harper Creek A 13 Mattawan HJAN. 5 South Haven Invite A 8 Portage Northern A 15 Loy Norrix H 17 Albion H 22 BC Lakeview A 26 Allegan Tri. A 29 South Haven AFEB. 2 DeWitt Invitational A 5 Otsego H 12 Allegan H 22 Conf. @ Allegan A 23 Conf. @ Allegan AMAR. 5 Diving Regionals A 8 MHSAA State Finals A 9 MHSAA State Finals A

GIRLS VARSITY BASKETBALLNOV. 27 Galesburg-Augusta* H 30 Otsego* HDEC. 7 Allegan* H 11 Coloma* H 14 Vicksburg* H 18 Three Rivers* A 21 Paw Paw* A 27 Portage Central 3PM HJAN. 8 Middleville * H 11 Comstock* H 15 Dowagiac* H 18 Otsego* A 22 Berrien Springs* A 25 Allegan° AFEB. 1 Vicksburg° A 5 Edwardsburg* A 8 Paw Paw° H 15 Comstock° A 19 South Haven* H 21 Conf. Playoffs* A 25 Districts H 27 Districts HMAR. 1 Districts H

* 6 p.m. start ° 7:15 p.m. start

GIRLS FR/JV BASKETBALLNOV. 27 Galesburg JV H 30 Otsego HDEC. 6 Allegan H 11 Mattawan 9TH H 11 Coloma JV H 13 Vicksburg H 18 Three Rivers A 20 Paw Paw A 27 Portage Central HJAN. 8 Middleville H 10 Comstock H 15 BC Pennfield 9TH H 15 Dowagiac JV H 18 Otsego A 22 Berrien Springs A 24 Allegan A 31 Vicksburg AFEB. 5 Edwardsburg A 7 Paw Paw H 14 Comstock A 19 South Haven H 21 Conf. Playoffs A

BOWLINGDEC. 1 Loy Norrix @ PINZ A 4 Paw Paw @ HOLIDAY LANES H 8 Otsego @ HOLIDAY LANES H 11 Vicksburg @ HOLIDAY LANES H 15 K Christian @ PAW PAW LANES H 19 Coloma @ COLOMA LANES AJAN. 5 Galesburg @ CONTINENTAL A 9 Allegan @ ALLEGAN LANES A 12 League @ CONTINENTAL A 17 South Haven @ S.H. LANES A 19 League @ HOLIDAY LANES H 23 Comstock @ HOLIDAY LANES H 26 K Central @ EASTLAND A 29 Otsego @ ALLEGAN LANES AFEB. 2 Parchment @ EASTLAND A 15 Conference @ S.H. LANES A 16 Baker Tournament Ago

TROJANS!

school matters fall 2012

Documents

refunding bonds

refunding of bonds

volves bonds

e w p o i n t

millage rate

current rate

michigan school districts

state constitution