Grand Blanc Shout!

THE

GB

#schoole veryday

District Newsletter • Volume III • June 2018

A Tradition of Excellence Elementary News P. 4 • GBHS News P. 6 • GBHS Athletics Highlights P. 7 • 2018 Grad Top Ten P. 8 • Middle School News P. 12

Letter from Superintendent

Clarence Garner Dear Grand Blanc Community:

Wow, where did the 2017-2018 school year go?

I remember my grandparents telling me to enjoy each day because time passes quickly, but I was young then and maybe didn’t listen as carefully as I should have. As I enter my 30th-plus year in public education, I can honestly say that my grandparents knew what they were talking about - time flies, especially if you are having fun and we certainly have had a lot of that this school year in Grand Blanc.

We have so much to celebrate and share with you regarding the numerous accomplishments by our students, staff, and community this past school year. Please allow me to highlight just a few of those accomplishments: • On May 8th, the voters in Grand Blanc renewed our Non-Homestead Millage for the next 10 years. This millage has been supported by our community and business owners since 1993 (THANK YOU).

• The entire student body (8,000+) and staff (almost 1,000 strong) committed to embracing the Positivity Project to make a difference in their life and the lives of others this year (#otherpeoplematter).

(Cont. on Page 2)

Central Office Administration:

Superintendent: Clarence Garner Deputy Superintendent: Dr. Trevor Alward Director of Business Affairs: Todd Rathbun Director of Operations: J.P. Adams

Brendel Elementary students read to a cats in the sanctuary at the Humane Society of Genesee County on a special field trip.

(Story on Page 4)

The mission of Grand Blanc Community Schools, the hallmark of academic and personal excellence, is to ensure students actualize their own unique genius, freely and without fear, through a system distinguished by: dedication to the discovery of profound learning, exemplary models of character and judgment, global experiences in life and living, an emphasis on individual autonomy and self-direction, and an unremitting pursuit of the highest human ideals.

Grand Blanc Community Schools • 11920 S. Saginaw St. , Grand Blanc, MI 48439 Phone: 810.591.6000 • www.grandblancschools.org • @gbcsbobcats

Volume III • June 2018

Letter (Cont. from Page 1)

• More than 100 people, including students, staff and community members came together to rewrite our District’s Strategic Plan. This plan was endorsed by our Board of Education and sets the direction for our students and staff over the next five years. The first Strategic Plan was adopted in the fall of 1989 (leadership/vision).

• We just finished our last year as members of the KLAA athletic conference. After nine years in this league, Grand Blanc is proud to have won 104 KLAA Championships. We look forward to our new home in the Saginaw Valley League beginning next year (change) • The 2017-2018 Indoor Drumline Team was crowned State Champions (excellence).

I could go on and on about our students, staff, and district, but I will leave that to the pages that follow. We are fortunate in Grand Blanc to have a community that supports and embraces our district. The 2018-2019 school year holds much promise as we begin implementing our new Strategic Plan, as we continue the infusion of technology into our classrooms thanks to our technology bond, as we explore new learning horizons at the Perry Innovation Center, as our Geometry in Construction students begin work on a Habitat for Humanity home, etc.

The one thing that you can be sure of, is that there is no stopping our students, staff, or community when it comes to making a difference and striving for EXCELLENCE! The future is bright. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the school district.

Have a safe and enjoyable summer.

Sincerely,

Clarence Garner

Superintendent Grand Blanc Community Schools

SECURING THE FINANCIAL FUTURE OF GRAND BLANC COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

In 2018, the first of three ballot proposals that are a part of the “The Future is Now” campaign to secure the financial future of Grand Blanc Community Schools was passed by voters in the Grand Blanc School District.

The Non-Homestead Millage Renewal, which will supply over $8 million per year over a period of 10 years, was approved by voters on May 8, 2018. The tax, paid largely by business properties, will combine with state funding to pay for day-to-day operations at Grand Blanc Community Schools. The successful millage renewal also provided for a .5 mil buffer to protect the collection of the full 18 mills from the Headlee Amendment.

The next step, the renewal of the sinking fund, will be proposed in 2019. These funds are used to keep students warm, safe and dry. They can only be used for structural-type improvements to buildings and Imagine • Create • Innovate

property. This is a 1 mill renewal that would be collected for a period of 5 years, and is only a renewal of a current tax collected on property in Grand Blanc.

The final piece of this funding puzzle is the Zero-Increase Bond Proposal, which administration plans to take to voters in 2020. This bond extension would not cost voters any more money than they are paying now, but would allow for funding of some very exciting aspects of the Strategic Plan and help Grand Blanc Schools continue on the path of innovation in education and technology well into the future.

GBCS is thankful to have a community that supports excellence in public education, innovative teachers and exceptional students.

More detailed information on this plan can be found at https://goo.gl/cFXwPZ. •

New Strategic Plan

The Strategic Plan has been presented to the Board of Education and was unanimously supported by Board members. This Strategic Plan spans a period of five years, 2018-19 through 2023, and frames the future for Grand Blanc Community Schools.

Deputy Superintendent, Trevor Alward will now lead implementation of the plan for 2018-19.

Funding for each Action Plan must be identified each year, but some aspects of the Strategic Plan have already begun implementation. For instance, more flexible Professional Development (P.D.) options for staff have already been introduced, as

Strategic Plan Steering Committee meets to go over the Action Plans of the Strategic Plan before presentation to the Board of Education.

proposed by Strategy I, since P.D. for 2018-19 begins over the summer months.

Tech Department Continues Roll-out of New Technology

The Technology Department, led by Technology Architect Herb Wansitler, continues to implement amazing technological advancement into the classroom through the Technology Bond funds approved by voters in 2015. The 1:1 technology program has issued Chromebooks to all students in grades 5-12, and grades 3-5 will be completely outfitted next year. 1st grade classrooms have im-

Page 2 • GB Shout! Volume III

plemented 2:1 carts and preparation is underway to have 2:1 I-pad or Touchscreen Chromebooks for all K-2. In addition, instructors district-wide have received mobile devices and many staff have gotten new desktop computers.

Innovation grants have been issued for Virtual Reality equipment at Perry Innovation Center. Perry

(Cont. on Page 14)

continues to be a pilot for new technology and report back on new classroom software before expanding it to the other buildings. The Tech Exploration program also benefited from a grant, which held a first-of-its kind Robotics Competition with the Wonder Workshop company. Staff at Wonder made a very (Cont. on Page 15)

June, 2018

Certification Success!

GBCS is proud to announce exciting news from the MI HEARTSafe School program! The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Michigan Department of Education, American Heart Association, Michigan High School Athletic Association, and Michigan Alliance for Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death of the Young have granted Grand Blanc East & West Middle Schools, Perry Innovation Center, and Grand Blanc High School the MI HEARTSafe School award for 2017-2020!

The program will announce the award publicly in October, along with presenting a banner to the buildings for display. Our secondary buildings have been working diligently along with District

Nurse Consultant, Rachel O’Mara, to increase AED awareness and practice cardiac emergency response. Rachel has led many surprise drills over several months to catch staff off-guard and practice for real-life situations. Each building in our district has a Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT) composed of staff members who are CPR certified and trained in how to respond to medical situations in our schools. The district offers CPR classes on a continuous basis to keep up with requirements.

The next step is to work with our elementary buildings in the fall, starting with Myers Elementary in honor of 5th grade student, London Eisenbeis, who passed due to sudden cardiac arrest earlier this year.

Staff kicked off the school year with a Positivity Project scavenger hunt, which involved many community businesses and organizations and provided an opportunity for staff to experience the lessons of P2 first-hand while teambuilding and having some fun to start off the year. From unloading

June, 2018

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The MI Heart Safe School certification requires training and practice regularly and the certification will need to be renewed at the end of 3 years.

Congratulations to our staff and Nurse O’Mara on this important accomplishment!

More information on MI HeartSafe School can be found at https://migrc.org/Library/heartsafeprogram.html •

Positivity Project Goes District-Wide

Last school year, Indian Hill Elementary principal Jeremy Mitchell and staff implemented a movement called The Positivity Project (P2), wherein students and staff discuss and practice the 24 charector traits of positive psychology. The pilot of the program went so well, that Grand Blanc Schools has taken P2 district-wide, now piloting at the high school level, which is new territory for founders Mike Erwin and Jeff Bryan. P2 is empowering students to build positive relationships at school and practice the #otherpeoplematter mindset.

BOBCAT

strangers’ groceries to playing games, team members experienced a memorable and rewarding day that left staff equal parts inspired and exhausted. •

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Be a positive adult influence in the lives of our students!

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GB Shout! Volume III • Page 3

Loving Literature with Lauren

Brought Fun and Fundraising Together

Cheers rang out through Cook and Mason Elementary Schools on a Friday afternoon when the office staff announced that the staff and students had raised $2265, more than double their goal. The money, donated generously by families throughout the schools, will go to the family of Lauren Stansburry.

Lauren was a student at Cook and Mason not long ago. She’s now a 6th grader but has not attended East Middle School yet, where she planned to continue her education. Instead Lauren utilizes Homebound services through Grand Blanc Schools. Lauren’s twin brother, Taylor is a student at Grand Blanc East Middle School. The students also made cards for the twins as a birthday surprise.

Lauren was diagnosed with stage-4 kidney cancer

Get Your Paws on a Good Book

Brendel Elementary celebrated March is Reading Month with the theme, “Get Your Paws on a Good Book”. Every classroom read a book about rescue dogs, and students competed to read the most books for the month. The top readers from each grade were selected to attend a special field trip.

Student leadership at Brendel then decided to raise money for The Humane Society of Genesee County, in honor of London Eisenbeis. London was a 5th grader at Grand Blanc’s Myers Elementary who passed away suddenly earlier this year.

in July of 2017. After sepsis hospitalized her last year and nearly took her life, Lauren laughs and gives her mom a hard time much like any other girl her age. She’s in a wheelchair and has lost a significant amount of weight during her treatment journey, as well as her hair to chemotherapy, but has a warrior’s attitude and a smile that lights up the room.

Students at Cook & Mason Elementary Buildings made cards for Lauren and

The students from Mason were her brother after reading books during “loving Literature with Lauren” reading non-fiction books with the students from Cook – spread out The staff entitled the fundraiser “Loving Literature throughout both buildings, as part of the fundrais- with Lauren” and the students pledged to read ing and in celebration of the #loveoflearning char- to one another until the fundraising dollars were acter trait of the week for the Positivity Project. counted. •

District 5th Grade Robotics Competition Recognized by Wonder Robotics as a First

In January 2018, select 5th-graders from the Grand Blanc elementary schools gathered at Perry Innovation Center for a first-of-its-kind district-wide Wonder Robotics competition.

Wonder manufactures DASH and DOT, robots popular with schools nationwide to introduce robotics and coding to elementary-age students.

Grand Blanc 5th-graders coded instructions to move the robot on a grid - go a certain distance, turn corners, etc. Those movements were combined into a final performance presented for judging.

Wonder was so excited to have a school district host

Donations in London’s name have been made to the Humane Society of Genesee County due to London’s tremendous love for animals. The local Humane Society, which of top reading month participants and students who runs entirely on volunteers and donations, provides have made exceptional progress on their reading skill many opportunities for kids and adults to spend level this year, joined their principal, Doris Goetz, for time with the animals and learn about their mission. a trip to the Humane Society. Brendel’s student leadOver a dozen students from Brendel, a combination ership created gift bags stuffed with animal goodies

Page 4 • GB Shout! Volume III

an in-house competition, that the CEO and Wonder employees made a personalized video to encourage the participants and announce they would give the top team a new Cue Robot.

The results? The “Phantom Programmers” from Mason Elementary came in third place, “The Firebolts” from Indian Hill in second place, and “The Flippers” from PIC were the first place champions.

Technology Exploration teachers are already planning for a similar competition next school year. •

and handmade cards for future adoptive pet families in London’s honor. The gift bags were presented to the Humane Society staff. The group was given a tour, watched a short video, and went on to read a book to the animals. •

June, 2018

Anderson & McGrath Embrace “Leader In Me”

In addition to taking on the Positivity Project Character Strengths, students at Anderson & McGrath Elementary Buildings adopted the “Leader In Me” program this year. The process, developed by a former school principal with Franklin/Covey, is based on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, marketed as the principles of personal and interpersonal effectiveness, such as responsibility, vision, integrity, teamwork, collaboration and renewal.

The program translates these ideas into education with “Habits” for children: 1. Be Proactive, 2. Begin with the End in Mind, 3. Put First Things First, 4. Think Win-Win, 5. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood, 6. Sinergize, 7. Sharpen the Saw.

A note from Anderson/McGrath’s New Asst.

Principal... Alexandra Bartholomew What an incredible year we have had at Anderson/McGrath Elementary! From our first full year of implementing Leader In Me, to our successful student fundraisers helping others in our community, our students have been growing immensely as leaders and learners. We earned third place in all of Genesee County School District during our Dimes for Diapers Fundraiser, and ABC Channel 12 news came to our school to feature us on the news. This was largely in part due to our successful student council who has been working hard this year to lead the school and remind our students to live by the 7 Habits and Positivity Project Character traits.

Anderson & McGrath has incorporated these habits into the language they use and lessons they teach. The staff hopes that the combination of the two programs will help them build not only character and relationships, but mold leaders that will take on meaningful roles in their community someday. •

Indian Hill Earth Day

Indian Hill students participated with the city for special Earth Day projects in April. City of Grand Blanc Beautification Committee members Trish, Brenda, Debbie and Josh worked with 5th grade students to clear brush, leaves and trash from between the Hotdog Stand and Physician’s Park in downtown Grand Blanc and do some planting!

Mrs. Merrill’s class helped plant trees, as well.

Wendy L. Jean-Buhrer, City Manager, said the elementary students were wonderful to work with on the Earth Day projects. •

Third Graders Become Desert Angels

Mrs. Boegner’s 3rd grade class at Myers Elementary completed a Service Learning Project with Desert Angels, an organization that turns donations into “Miracle Boxes” to send to American troops stationed overseas. The boxes contained pretty much anything that can fit in a flat rate shipping box and reminds soldiers of home. The students also wrote messages and included a picture of the class.

Tim Sneller Visit

Louise Blain, gives directions to Mrs. Boegner’s class Boegner said, “It started a few years ago. My class Founder, before they begin boxing up snacks, personal care items, magsponsored a friend’s son that was deployed. For two azines and personal messages to send to troops overseas. years we sent packages and wrote letters. When he came back to the states, his mom introduced me to Auxiliary and Girl Scouts of America cookie donaLouise and I decided that her organization was an ex- tions the students in her class were able to fill and cellent Service-learning Project for my third graders.” ship 100 boxes!

Last year, her 3rd grade class packed 16 boxes to send, but this year, with the help of over $700 in donations from the Grand Blanc American Legion and Anderson/McGrath Elementary: Principal, Barbara Watkins Asst. Principal, Alexandra Bartholomew Brendel Elementary: Principal, Doris Goetz Cook Elementary: Principal, Tia Dale

June, 2018

Founder, Louise Blain, began the organization after finding out from a friend’s son stationed in the desert how much it means to receive mail from home. • Indian Hill Elementary: Principal, Jeremy Mitchell Mason Elementary: Principal, Sonya James Myers Elementary: Principal, Betsy Kato Perry Innovation Center: Director, Amber Hall Reid Elementary: Principal, Jamie Wagner

State of Michigan Representative Tim Sneller came to Indian Hill in March to celebrate Reading Month as a guest reader! Sneller represents the 50th House District, which includes Grand Blanc, Burton and Mundy Township. •

GB Shout! Volume III • Page 5

Peer Mediation

The Positivity Project has slowly crept into GBHS with the help of the Peer Mediation class and its teacher, Jason Youngs. In addition to helping moderate student conflicts, the students who were accepted to take this year-long course were given the added responsiblity of finding ways to incorporate the 24 character trait lessons into life at the high school. They came up with various methods, including a #Perseverence breakfast for students with accomplishments that wouldn’t otherwise be recognized and a P2 Art Contest that encouraged students to learn about the Positivity Project and express it through #creativity.

Red Carpet Returned High school students attending Prom 2018 were announced as they walked the Red Carpet at GBHS before heading to the Masonic Temple in Detroit for Prom festivities.

Excellence in Journalism

Students in one of the yearbook classes listen as Mrs. Butzu describes her time at the N.S.P.A. conference in San Fransisco, CA for the presentation of the Pacemaker Award.

Page 6 • GB Shout! Volume III

“Best Music Community for Music Education” The music department at Grand Blanc Community Schools is a large, but cohesive unit that encourages music education at a young age and then instills dedication and excellence at the upper levels.

The Vocal Music Department is highly regarded in the State of Michigan and sings at numerous community events. Chorale, Girl’s Glee Club and Mixed Chorus performed at district and state levels, earning “Excellent” scores and the a capella group, “Unaccompanied Minors” and numerous soloists competed in district and state Solo and Ensemble for “Excellent” ratings.

Instrumental Music continues to be a source of pride, as well. This year, Winter Drumline came home in 1st Place from the MCGC State Finals for the first time. Several soloists competed in Solo and Ensemble earning “Superior” ratings.

be named, Grand Blanc Community Schools is proud that all the hard work from our music students has been recognized by the organization.

Music students at East and West Middle School work very hard, as well, and Perry Innovation Center has several upper school students who practice with fellow middle school students online via Skype.

The Band Boosters parents help support competitions, costumes, uniforms and equipment to help the program be successful. The healthy alumni presence is an amazing resource to current students.

The marching band continues to enthuse crowds while practicing tirelessly to make sure every step and note counts. They routinely rank within the top competitive bands in the State of Michigan.

The entire music department at Grand Blanc Community Schools was recently recognized by the National Association of Music Merchants (N.A.M.M.) as a “Best Community for Music Education.” As the only public school in the region to The Bobcat Banner (GBHS newsletter) was distributed to students each month and won 13 individual awards and an overall Silver rating from the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (M.I.P.A.) The editor-in-chief of the publication, senior Katelyn Stuck, was recognized as one of the top 15 journalists in the State of Michigan and was named to the 2018 M.I.P.A. Student Journalist Staff.

The Yearbook program, advised by teacher Ava Butzu, received another Spartan Award for the “Echo” from 2016-17. The attendees also took home 48 individual category contest awards from M.I.P.A., a school record. 15 of those were for first place finishes!

In addition, the publication was inducted into the M.I.P.A. Hall of Fame. This honor is bestowed only

East Middle School Music Orchestra Students Performing at Crossroads Village during the Holiday season.

when a publication has won a Spartan Award in ten out of the previous 11 years. Grand Blanc also received the Printer’s Industry Association Award, and was featured in Jostens lookbook as one of their top 20.

Katelyn Stuck

The book from last year was also a National Scholastic Press Association Pacemaker Award finalist.

It was an exciting time for the staff, who spent many hours designing, photographing, editing, and marketing for the 2017-18 yearbook publication entitled “Blanc Slate.” Students also entered and won various photo and design contests outside of preparation of the publication. •

June, 2018

High School Class Gives Students the L.E.A.D. L.E.A.D. students took women from the a women’s shelter in Flint for a day of makeovers, massages, and dinner.

High School teacher, Todd Babiaz had no idea what to expect when he took on a new class entitled Leadership Exploration and Development. Among other amazing tasks, student-led semester-long projects have included providing Enchroma glasses to the FIA for the colorblind, teaching Whaley children to ride bikes, and taking women from the YWCA shelter for a day of pampering. Students chose, planned, fundraised and followed through

on these projects and then made a video about the experience. Both students and teacher have overwhelmingly positive feedback about the class, and Mr. Babiaz is looking forward to see what the 2 packed L.E.A.D. classes he has lined up for the 2018-19 school year choose to accomplish. The class is an excellent example of the trend toward purpose-based learning in education and shows the amazing things students are capable of achieving. •

Grand Blanc Builders of Hope Sprouts from P2 Innovation Teachers at the High School are experimenting to find out what the Positivity Project implementation looks like at the high school level. Mr. Youngs, teacher at GBHS, has truly embraced the challenge and leads not only the Peer Mediation group through P2 principles, but has now incorporated math and P2 character-building into the Construction Trades program through the Center for Student Success (C.S.S.).

Geometry in Construction is a new class that takes a look at geometry from a practical hands-on approach in the process of construction. While working with these students and Mr. Wiltse, a Construction Trades teacher, Mr. Youngs was inspired to create an

organization called “Grand Blanc Builders of Hope”.

Through fundraising, Mr. Youngs hopes to carry out projects with construction students that can eventually be used by community organizations and people in need.

Students have already made garden beds for Carriage Town Ministries in Flint. The facility invited the students to deliver the beds in person and take a tour, where they learned all of the ways the organization helps get people back on their feet. The garden beds were hand-constructed from cedar by the students and paid for with fundraising dollars from Grand Blanc Builders of Hope. •

2018-19 Bobcats Sports Highlights...

Football - MHSAA Playoff Qualifier Boys’ Tennis - MHSAA State Tournament Qualifiers Girls’ Golf - Team Academic All-State, Regional Champions, District Competition Boys’ Soccer - District Champions Girls’ Swim & Dive - MHSAA State Tournament Qualifiers & First Place in Genesee County Invitational Volleyball - KLAA Silver Champions Powerlifting - Five Regional Champions, 12 State Qualifiers, 7 All-State, and State Champion: Joel Linden Competitive Cheer - KLAA Gold Division & Conference Champions, District Champions, Regional Runners-Up, State Finals Qualifier, Team Academic All-State Boys’ Basketball - KLAA Gold Division & Conference Champions Hockey - KLAA Team Academic Boys Swim & Dive - Genesee County Invitational Champions Girls’ Soccer - Petosky Invitational Champs, Genesee Fieldhouse Indoor Champs, Regional Champs, KLAA League Champs, D-1 District Champs, 2nd in D-1 State Track & Field/Cross Country - KLAA Conference Champions, Region-9 Champions, 3rd MITCA Team State Meet, 3rd MHSAA State D-1 Finals, 1st April Showers Invite, 1st Bay City Western Invite, 2nd Huron Relays, 4th Jackson Invitational Boys’ Golf - Regional 3rd Place, Michigan State Boys’ Golf Finalists Principal, Michael Fray Asst. Principal & Athletic Director, Jerrod Dohm Asst. Principal, Gary Goetzinger Asst. Principal, Lamanzer WIlliams

June, 2018

GBHS Students from Construction Trades/Grand Blanc Builders of Hope deliver garden boxes to Master Gardener volunteers at Carriage Town Ministries in Flint.

• Coach Michael Martin was inducted into the MHSIBCA Bowling Coach’s Hall of Fame.

• Cheer Coach Christina Swansey was District and Regional Coach of the Year.

• New coaches in Varsity Football (Clint Alexander) and Varsity Basketball (Mike Thomas) were welcomed to the Grand Blanc Schools family.

• “Friday Nights at the Frank” encouraged families and community members to gather around the Bobcats!

• Senior passes are available to community members 55+ for most athletic events.

• New Softball Scoreboard funded by Softball Boosters and the Miller family.

Special Olympics - GB Unified Club increased to 56 gen ed students and 22 athletes. 11 Special Olympic athletes participated in an Area 13 Special Olympics Bowling team and went on to compete at the Michigan Summer Games at Central Michigan University

Grand Blanc Athletic Department Athletic Director: Jerrod Dohm Athletic Secretary: Sally Piggott Faculty Manager: James Stuck

Grand Blanc High School:

GO BOBCATS!

Asst. Principal, Allyson Walroth Lori Jackson - East Campus Student Advisor Kevin Keilitz - West Campus Student Advisor Janet Roberts - CTE Coordinator

GB Shout! Volume III • Page 7

GBHS Class of 2018 Top Ten Nisha Krishnan • 4.502 GPA

Plans to attend University of Pennsylvania Major: Biochemistry Nisha is the daughter of Saroja Kanchi and Radhakrishnan Swaminathan.

Hamza Hai • 4.441 GPA

Plans to attend Wayne State University Double Major: Biomedical Engineering & Neuroscience, Minor: Public Health Hamza is the son of Dr. Mohammed Abdul Hai. He would like to be a Neurosurgeon eventually, and while in high school, he served as the Science Olympiad President, Debate Club Captain, HOSA Vice President, and the Muslim Student Association Coordinator.

Veronica M. Sikora • 4.4 GPA

Plans to study Biochemistry or Molecular Biology Veronica is the daughter of Ewa and Wojtek Sikora and has a goal of becoming either a biochemist or a molecular biologist. While at Grand Blanc High School, Veronica was the Co-President of GB Dignify and wrote poetry in her free time.

Veronica P. Alfaro • 4.377 GPA

Plans to attend University of Michigan - Ann Arbor Plans to study Statistics or Physics Veronica is the daughter of Terrie and Ricardo Alfaro. Eventually, she hopes to go into the research field. While in high school, Veronica was recognized as a National Merit Finalist, a National Hispanic Scholar, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and was a member of the National Honor Society.

Yahya Tajor 4.37 GPA

Plans to attend University of Michigan - Ann Arbor Major: Biochemistry Yahya is the son of Fadwa and Burhan Tajour.

GBHS Student Volunteers

Youth Volunteer Services, coordinated by the Career Resource Center (C.R.C.) at Grand Blanc High School, promotes self-esteem, service to others, and career opportunities. Through the 2017-18 program, we are proud to say Grand Blanc students donated over 7000 hours of their time to local businesses and organizations.

Students who complete over 20 hours of community service are recognized at an annual banquet, held April 18th. Over 75 high school students were honored with various awards.•

Page 8 • GB Shout! Volume III

Grand Blanc High School Class of 2018

On Thursday, May 17, 2018, the Senior Honors Assembly took place at GBHS. 64% of the Class of 2018, with a GPA of 3.0 or above, gathered with friends and family to be recognized for academic excellence along with other achievements. Community members, organizations, departments and schools from within GBCS, and others, awarded 76 scholarships totaling $56,500! There were an impressive 59 students who achieved a GPA of 4.0 or higher in the Class of 2018.

Principal, Michael Fray, said almost 30% of the class of 2018 represented the Bobcats as a member of a team, with over 50 seniors participating in multiple seasons. At least 42 student-athletes signed to continue their sport with various colleges. Alicia Woolcott was named Athlete of the Year. Over 823 advanced placement exams were taken by our high school students this year!

Gold and Silver Honor Cords, Grand Blanc Early College Maize & Blue Cords, National Honor Society Stoles, President’s Education Awards, and many other recognitions were distributed by GBHS Counselors, Community Members & Donors, Administrators and the GBCS Board of Education. Board of Education President, James Avery closed the ceremony close to 9:30pm.

(Cont. on Page 9)

June, 2018

GBHS Class of 2018 Top Ten Yaseen A. Ali • 4.321 GPA

Plans to attend University of Michigan - Ann Arbor Plans to study Neuroscience Yaseen is the son of Jehan Ali and Qazi Ahmad. He hopes to pursue a career in Radiology. While in high school, he served as the Grand Blanc HOSA President, was a member of the Muslim Student Association and the National Honor Society, and was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction.

Alexandre A. Levashkevich • 4.296 GPA

Plans to attend University of Michigan - Ann Arbor Major: Biochemistry Alexandre is the son of Alexey and Zhanna Levashkevich.

Benjamin Shapiro • 4.295 GPA

Plans to attend University of Michigan - Ann Arbor Major: Mathematics Benjamin is the son of Brian and Monica Shapiro

Above: Senior Class of 2018 photo in the football stadium stands.

Below: Seniors were clapped-out on the day they picked up caps and gowns for Graduation by their former elementary and middle schools. Pictured: Cook & Mason Senior Walk

Justin S. Ballard • 4.278 GPA

Plans to attend University of Michigan - College of Literature, Sciences & the Arts Major: International Studies Justin is the son of Tim and Elly Ballard. He hopes to pursue a career in foreign service specifically pertaining to embassy work. Justin served as a Captain of the Varsity Cross Country Team, the Tutoring Lab Chair and the Senior Secretary for the National Honor Society. He was a member of the Varsity Track and Field Team, and was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction.

Joshua M. Ray • 4.273 GPA

Plans to study Science, Law or Statistics Joshua is the son of Cheryl and Martin Ray. He hopes to succeed and advance in his chosen field, gaining experience through research opportunities and attending graduate school. While in high school, he was a twotime Regional Finalist on the Grand Blanc Varsity Soccer Team, a member of the Debate Team and Grand Blanc DECA. Joshua also participated in the Miracle League Club.

In the senior class, GBHS had 3 National Merit Scholars, and a Silver Key Award in the Scholastic Regional Art Competition at Kendall College.

On May 30, as seniors picked up their caps and gowns, they were invited to walk through the halls of their former elementary and middle schools one more time.

The Class of 2018 walked at Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center on May 31, 2018 and celebrated with a post-grad party. Congratulations to all of our seniors and thank you to the community of donors that support academic excellence at GBHS! •

June, 2018

Grand Blanc HOSA

Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) develops future leaders in the health care delivery system. Grand Blanc’s chapter listed 116 members this year, up 67 students from last year. Of the 95 that competed at the Regional level, 92 qualified for State competition, 27 of which medaled in the top three.

90 participants went to Grand Rapids to represent GBHS. 11 students were in the top ten in the State of Michigan for events of Cert, Public Service Announcement and Researched Persuasive Writing. GB-HOSA had three teams qualify for the International Leadership Conference in Dallas, Texas this summer! •

GB Shout! Volume III • Page 9

Project Dad at Reid Elementary Project Dad has been bringing father figures into the classroom at Reid Elementary since Physical Education teacher Jeremy Cochrane began the program in January. A kick-off meeting took place to explain the concept and ask for volunteers.

Over 30 of the original attendees have participated in the program this year.

In spite of the name, dads aren’t the only ones participating. Grandpas, uncles and anyone who plays a fatherly role in a student’s life can volunteer. Even Superintendent of Grand Blanc Schools, Clarence Garner, took some time out of the office to step back into the elementary classroom and spend time in the blue shirt.

The intention of the program is to bring more male presence into the school building. The Project Dad t-shirt sports the program logo, and the kids are excited to see who’s wearing it each day when they get to school. The Project Dad visitor is stationed at the door to greet kids first thing in the

morning. Mr. Cochrane says the staff has already noticed a difference in behavior and that the blue t-shirts give the visitor “rock-star” status.

He says there are other benefits to the program, too. Another adult in the building helps add some security, and is an opportunity to bring community members into the school. The state of public education is something that many have an opinion about, but few get to actually see first-hand.

Getting people into the schools to see what struggles and triumphs there are, helps educate the population on what a day looks like for a modern-day teacher.

Cochrane has learned some lessons and hopes to streamline his process for next year, but he’s already planning for a bigger program. Cochrane says, “If you think the world needs to change, then why not change it.” •

A note from new Reid Principal...

Jamie Wagner

Reid had a busy year of learning while having fun!

From the very first day of school, Reid began to implement our Positivity Project activities through weekly character trait lessons, filling our rocket with positivity tickets, holding a P2 Olympic ceremony, snowman building contest and celebrating all the random acts of kindness with a year-end assembly.

Our student spirit club and student council led participation in fun events such as Spirit Week, International Day of Happiness, Feed the Bus, raising money for Leukemia, running a student store each week, running our recycling club each week, a bake sale to support the Paws Foundation and decorating our school for special events.

Our Kindergarten friends collected socks during SOCKTOBER. The socks were donated to a clothing closet for families in need. We celebrated March is Reading Month by logging our reading minutes to try to make it around to each zoo stop on our reading map of The United States. Reid students read over 100,000 minutes in the month of March alone!

Our PTO sponsored many events this year that included a Super Hero Fun Run and a Swim with Mrs. Wagner Night, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” Movie Night, Popcorn Fridays, Bryan Chick author visit, Book Swap Bingo, Daddy and Daughter Dance, Mother and Son Bowling, Family Picnic (including ice cream!), Jump with Jill assembly and also supported Field Day events.

Second graders researched significant people and held a wax museum. Third grade completed individual Service Learning projects that supported our community. Fourth graders made treasures that they sold at our Market Day event that raised money to support Whaley’s Children Center. Our drama club, directed by Mrs. Wilkerson, put on an amazing theatre production of “The Grunch”. Our students also participated in many field trips and extracurricular activities. It was a fun-filled year!

Above: Superintendent Clarence Garner greets students at the door on his morning of “Project Dad” service at Reid Elementary.

Right: Reid father, Tim Wilson, volunteers with Project Dad and helps students with worksheets outside the classroom.

Page 10 • GB Shout! Volume III

Drama club students at Reid Elementary performed “The Grunch” to a delighted audience under the direction of teacher, Mrs. Wilkerson.

June, 2018

Myers Raises Over $5000 for Dimes for Diapers!

Elementary students at Myers Elementary were recently honored by Angie Hendershot from ABC 12 and ELGA Credit Union for their efforts for the Dimes for Diapers program. Dimes for Diapers was started by Hendershot several years ago when she saw area children going days without clean diapers in her work as a news anchor. The program stocks the Flint Diaper Bank to help those in need.

Myers Elementary was ecstatic to learn they were the top fundraising school EVER for the cause! The students and staff at Myers Elementary School received a trophy for raising over $5000 this year through sales of slime, movie nights, change collection and more! Hendershot said that the amount they raised equates to 40,384 diapers for those in need.

The effort at Myers was led by the student council and their advisors - Mrs. Wilson and Mrs. Pyrett.

Hendershot and ELGA visited Anderson & McGrath, as well, to honor their amazing 3rd place finish! •

A note from Myers Principal...

Betsy Kato

Myers experienced another successful school year! Our students have shown a great deal of academic and social growth. We were excited to participate in the Positivity Project this year, and our students worked hard to better understand the important 24 character traits. The students had numerous opportunities to learn about helping others and supporting our community. Our Special Partners and Blueberry Ambassadors continued to promote kindness and acceptance of others. It has been wonderful to witness our students modeling that #otherpeoplematter!

The Myers Family would also like to thank everyone for the love and support we were shown this year after the tragic death of one of our 5th grade students, London Eisenbeis. She was a beautiful, smart, athletic little girl and everyone that knew her loved her. Recently we have been given a bench and a large engraved stone to have at Myers in her honor. We feel lucky to be a part of such a kind and loving community!

I’m Concerned About the Blueberries...

Students from Indian Hill, Myers, Reid, Perry Innovation Center and East Middle School committed to participate as Blueberry Ambassadors again this year with over 1600 students throughout Genesee County! Participants initiated 3 random acts of kindness throughout the year, as well as various good deeds they plan as a group with their school advisors. Myers Elementary Blueberry Ambassadors took field trips to the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan and the Soup Kitchen to volunteer, for example.

To conclude service, they have to write down their “Blueberry Moments” to share with the organization. A year-end celebration highlights their work with a giant fun pizza party thrown by the program’s organizers. Every year there are more ambassadors, and next year the program hopes to have to open up another banquet room at Riverbank Center for the event in Downtown Flint. The celebration room gets a little more packed every

year, and this year students had to crowd in to find a seat at the celebration on May 4, 2018. In addition to pizza and fun, founder Phil Shaltz, along with Huntington Bank and the University of Michigan-Flint, present awards and scholarships to select schools and participants.

Mrs. Vickie Weiss (54-year Grand Blanc teacher beloved at Perry Innovation Center) was noticeably surprised when they announced she was the winner of the “Inspirational Leader” Award for 2018. The award not only presented her with a beautiful trophy, but also allows her to choose a Grand Blanc graduating senior to receive a one-semester scholarship to U of M-Flint, in the spirit of the pay-it-forward movement.

We are proud of the good deeds of our Blueberry Ambassadors each year! Keep up the good work! •

Students from Perry Innovation with Mrs. Weiss.

IN LOVING MEMORY of those we’ve lost this year at Grand Blanc Community Schools, especially our beloved students: Cook/Mason and East Middle School student, McKenna Schummer, 5th-Grade Myers Elementary student, London Eisenbeis, and 10th-Grade Grand Blanc High School student Veronica Estes. They remain in our hearts, and are forever Bobcats.

June, 2018

GB Shout! Volume III • Page 11

Global Youth Day of Service Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) was celebrated in April, 2018 at Grand Blanc Schools. The United Way of Genesee County brought AmeriCorps volunteers & supplies to three different buildings this year.

Students at East Middle School used old t-shirts to make chew toys for dogs at the Humane Society of Genesee County. Indian Hill Elementary students made laundry soap, stuffed animals and planted seeds. Perry Innovation Center students did an outdoor cleanup to beautify their community.

GYSD is celebrated each April in more than 100 countries across six continents. The Americore volunteers and the United Way were very organized and made it a fun day for the students. •

Flexible Seating

Grand Blanc East Middle School teacher Dawn Kotsko is no stranger to taking on challenges. A teacher of 13 years, she started her teaching journey later in life after her son left for college. As Team 1 Language Arts teacher, she is now a leader in the implementation of flexible seating at Grand Blanc East Middle School. On Thursday, November 9, 2017, her students hosted a symposium on the subject in the East Middle School lecture room. Student teams contributed in various ways to a presentation and question/answer period that was followed by a student-produced video. After a brief explanation of flexible seating and how it’s been implemented in Mrs. Kotsko’s classroom this year, students fielded questions from their Principal, Jolene Kruse and Assistant Principal, Scott Turnbow.

A number of classrooms at Grand Blanc Schools are adopting flexible seating options. Indian Hill Elementary was awarded a grant of over $6000 for their building-wide implementation of flexible seating this year, and several groups of staff from across the district have traveled to Steelcase furniture manufacturers and schools on the west side of Michigan to see the options available to a modern classroom. Indian Hill was inspired by teachers at Myers Elementary who have used mainly donations, small grants, and their own funds to create flexible learning environments in their classrooms over the last few years.

Page 12 • GB Shout! Volume III

Students at East Middle School learned how to cut old t-shirts into strips and make chew toys for dogs that were donated to the Humane Society of Genesee County.

Kindergartners at Indian Hill stuffed animals in the gymnasium with United Way and Americore on the Global Youth Day of Service.

Flexible seating is thought to increase the ability of many students to focus, aiding in comfort when reading or working on laptops. Much of what used to be done on paper and pencil is now done electronically. Problem-solving and group work are commonly assigned in the modern classroom.

(Cont. on Page 14)

Mrs. Kotsko watches her class as they hold a symposium on flexible seating in the flex room at East Middle School.

ABC 12’s J.R. Kirtek Visits East Middle School

On May 28 J.R. Kirtek was a guest on the afternoon announcements with East Middle School 8th-grader, Logan.

Logan brought a weather report to the announcements at E.M.S. this year, complete with the technology to broadcast like the pros. He figured out the equipment needed and set it up so that the broadcast could run smoothly.

It was an entertaining show wherein Kirtek interrupted Logan’s regular weather report and took over briefly.

East Middle School leadership expressed tremendous pride in the initiative taken by their student to add a quality element to their daily announcements, and taking initiative to ABC 12 Chief Meteorologist J.R. Kirtek with the contact Kirtek. • EMS weatherman and 8th grader, Logan.

East Middle School Principal, Jolene Kruse Asst. Principal/A.D., Scott Turnbow

West Middle School Principal, Jeffrey Neall Asst. Principal/A.D., Diana Balbaugh

Perry Innovation Center Upper School: Director, Amber Hall

June, 2018

Mindfulness with Mrs. Casper

at Grand Blanc West Middle School ally lasts less than 20 minutes. Students practice breathing, learn about their emotions and focus their thoughts. Principal of West Middle School, Jeff Neall has been supportive of Casper’s efforts and has allowed for the expansion of the project.

Honoring War Dogs

President of the Michigan War Dog Memorial organization and military veteran, Phil Weitlauf, traveled to Grand Blanc West Middle School in the morning on Thursday, November 2, to accept a check for $1000 from the students. He answered many questions from curious students.

Several dogs were present, and a local canine officer demonstrated how they assist in apprehending suspects on the school’s own Officer Dan Wolschleger. Officer Wolschleger has been a School Resource Officer (SRO) at West Middle School since 2008. Following the gathering, all the students and staff in the school slipped into the hallways for a “silent salute” to the canine officers.

Positivity Project founder, Jeff Bryan, was in town for the day and was able to be present. Bryan was touring several Grand Blanc schools that day to meet with students to check in on Positivity Project implementation and see some of the results. •

A note from East Middle School Principal...

Jodi Kruse

2017-2018 has been a remarkable year at East Middle School! Our entire Grand Blanc community can be proud of the wonderful efforts and achievements of our EMS students over the past year. As you see here, the rich fabric of opportunities for students at EMS has allowed our students to demonstrate their own unique genius.

From academic learning to athletics, our students are excelling. This year, our students have taken part in challenging academic competitions, art exhibits, and team building events with the Positivity Project. Beyond the classroom, we continue to encourage our students to learn about their growing roles as citizens in the community through service learning projects and field trips.

At EMS, we strive to build a safe and caring learning environment where all of our students experience success.

Through the partnership between students, parents and school, we are able to accomplish this goal. Thank you for your continued support!

June, 2018

Spanish teacher and Certified Mindfulness Instructor, Jennifer Casper practices breathing while teaching Mindfulness to a class at West Middle School.

With all that’s running through the mind of a student at Grand Blanc Community Schools these days, taking a break to focus on your peace of mind isn’t usually at the top of the to-do list.

Mrs. Casper at Grand Blanc West Middle School is working to change that, one class at a time.

The Spanish teacher has been using techniques in her own classes for a couple of years, and has been given the opportunity to share the mindfulness lessons with a larger population of the school. She has been a Spanish teacher at Grand Blanc Community Schools since 2005, and in Saginaw before, and has a Bachelor’s from Oakland University and a Master’s from SVSU. She possesses teacher certification in several subjects.

She also sought out a special certification from Mindful Schools. Their Mindful Teacher program supports mindfulness curriculum in the classroom, K-12.

Fellow teachers can now volunteer to have Casper come into their classrooms (or come to hers) to take a break from their busy schedules that usu-

Casper says that mindfulness exercises can help with self-regulation, anger management, and reducing anxiety and stress. She personally sets her alarm 20 minutes earlier in the morning so she can practice mindfulness before the rest of her house wakes. She found mindfulness when she was dealing with the stress of becoming a mother for the first time, and she’s found it helpful in many aspects of her life.

Students participate on a voluntary basis. If they choose to sit out, she just asks that no technology or food is out, to reduce distraction for the other students who are participating. She’s finding teachers are usually participating as well, and finding the moments of breathing helpful in their day.

After a brief lesson about emotions, she gently requests the students “Sit into your mindful bodies”, resulting in many students sitting with their hand on their chest, stomach or under their nose so they can focus on their breathing. Many choose to close their eyes, as well. The classroom goes quiet for a few moments for breathing. The students are then released and head off to continue with their day.

The school considers this program successful thus far, leading to anticipated implementation of the practice district-wide via the Strategic Plan. •

Bullies Reality

In November 2017, West and East Middle Schools hosted the reality stars from “Bullies Reality” for an assembly that included thoughtful stories from the cast, live vocal performances, and selfies with the performers after the assembly. CEO Tim Levasseur brought an energetic team that included Big Brother star James Huling, among other recognizable faces. During the assembly select students were appointed the designated representatives of Bullies Reality for their middle school. •

GB Shout! Volume III • Page 13

Strategic Plan (Cont. from Page 2) The following are highlights of the 5 Strategies contained in the Strategic Plan: Strategy I: Teaching and Learning - In addition to Professional Development changes already underway, Instructional Technology and Literacy coaches, and an Algebra Interventionist will likely be hired. “Purpose-Based Learning” (P.B.L.) curriculum development is underway and “Culturally Responsive” teaching will be infused directly into the classroom via staff coaching in the near future. In these new positions, as in all positions, hiring for a more culturally diverse staff in our district will take place.

Strategy II: Character and Culture will have aspects implemented next school year, as well.

Training has already begun in Restorative Practices, and work will continue to educate teachers and staff on the use of the language and philosophy surrounding Restorative Justice. State law dictates the use of Restorative Practices in the discipline of students, but the district intends to go a step further with daily conflict resolution and prevention using this method. (Grand Blanc East Middle School has found a notable positive change in behavior in students using these methods.) Additionally, “Service Learning” activities will continue and expand, the Positivity Project (P2) will continue as a means of instilling character in our students and will include the formation of committees in each building to carry out P2 activities and lessons. Eventually, an “Advisory Period” for secondary students (middle and high school) will aim to connect students directly with a

trusted adult staff member. Mental health will be addressed with students through tiered services and the creation of a leadership team to build relationships with community organizations. The teaching of “Mindfulness” as a practice, which has been working well at West Middle School, will expand throughout the district.

Strategy III: Time and Space will gradually transform common areas, classrooms and outdoor spaces to make learners more engaged and comfortable at school. It includes the re-purposing of some indoor spaces, the addition of outdoor learning spaces, and the eventual purchase of flexible furniture for all buildings. The “Balanced Calendar” district-wide and “Rotating Block Schedule” at the high school will both be re-explored for feasibility for implementation in the coming years, and a “Virtual” or “Alternative” Academy will be formed to operate expanded online and alternative learning courses, including programs like CSS and Early College at the high school.

Strategy IV: Home and Community - Registration will be made central and online through a purchased online application. GBCS will continue a program of mentoring for new families and students, and communication with families will be consolidated to a purchased online & mobile application for use district-wide. The concept of “Parent University” will be revamped and will offer new resources for families. A “Celebration of Learning” will provide an opportunity for students to showcase work to their families and the community at least 3 times per year district-wide.

(Myers Elementary and other buildings provide these events for families in conjunction with parent-teacher conferences, and have seen an increase in communication between staff, students and families.)

Strategy V: Technology and Infrastructure addresses the update of entryways, locker rooms, and bathrooms for safety and privacy. Paving, roofing and HVAC projects are planned. Significant HVAC work will have to take place in preparation for the possible Balanced Calendar proposed in Strategy III. Focus will continue on technological updates already underway, thanks to the Technology Bond passed in 2015, and will keep networks and equipment up-to-date and running smoothly.

Athletic facilities will be upgraded/updated extensively over time and provide a more community-friendly atmosphere with specific focus on student safety.

The Strategic Plan, 5 strategies and 22 action plans, in their entirety, are available for viewing at https://goo.gl/WJihQ6. Dr. Alward also explains the plan in a webcast here: tinyurl.com/gbcsstrategicplanscreencast.

Thank you to all stakeholders involved in the Strategic Plan for their work thus far, and to all that will help make them become a reality over the coming years. It is important to note that funding availability and approval by the Grand Blanc Board of Education are required for each year of implementation. The district will provide another update closer to the beginning of the 2018-19 school year. •

Flexible Seating (Cont. from Page 12) The renovated library at McGrath Elementary and the newly renovated areas of Perry Innovation Center have flexible seating options, as do the new flex rooms in the high schools and middle schools. Various other new projects have achieved some level of funding. In other rooms, teachers have gotten creative with donations and personal contributions. Some have couches, beanbags and folding chairs paid for out of pocket.

the expense of new furniture and maintenance.

Flexible seating presents many new issues that East Middle School students addressed at the symposium, such as responsible student behavior, keeping things tidy for custodial crews, and

The new Strategic Plan includes flexible seating district-wide, and pending funding and final approval, will be implemented in the coming years in all Grand Blanc classrooms. •

Page 14 • GB Shout! Volume III

The students say they are happier, more comfortable, more focused, and as a result are doing better with their schoolwork in the new environment. To end the presentation, Principal Jolene Kruse may have been put on the spot when asked if the class can keep their flexible seating, but her “yes” response brought thunderous applause, high fives, and celebration from Mrs. Kotsko’s students.

Students at Indian Hill Elementary are enjoying flexible seating funded with $6000 in grant money staff sought out this year.

June, 2018

Technology (Cont. from Page 2) special video for participants and even sent new robots for the competition winners. Plans have already begun for next year’s competition due to its overwhelming success.

Renovations have been completed to the GBHS theater and computer labs at West Campus into the “Center for Innovative Learning”, as well as the Computer Programing Lab at East Campus.

In addition, student libraries at Perry Innovation Center and McGrath Elementary have been completely renovated. Plans for summer 2018 include renovating Anderson Elementary with a new media center/library and new Tech Exploration room. Cook Elementary will also benefit from the expansion and renovation of their library into a media center, as will Indian Hill Elementary.

Desktops have been updated in all Specialty Computer Labs district-wide. Document cameras have been implemented K-8 to assist teachers in displaying documents to classrooms. Teaching walls at Perry Innovation Center were constructed to include whiteboards, Smart Projectors, sound fields, colorful walls and new wiring. By the end of summer 2018, all staff in the school district will have been through the two-day Transformation Orientation Training through CBD Consulting to fine-tune their understanding of the new technology that is being introduced.

Additionally, new network cabling and infrastructure, a completely new 10GB network, numerous battery-backups, wireless access points, electrical updates and wiring have been done to ensure smooth operation. Many older printers and copiers have been replaced. The video distribution system, Safari Montage was implemented, and four middle school computer labs were renovated to become blended “Learning Labs”. The small auditorium at GBHS East Campus was renovated

New Media Spaces

Last summer, outdated elementary libraries began renovation. McGrath Elementary and Perry Innovation Center were first to benefit from these changes. The beautiful new libraries are user-friendly and serve as a great group-work space for students during Project-based Learning. They’re also tech-friendly and have a special “Makerspace” where students have access to all kinds of materials to be creative!

June, 2018

Superintendent, Clarence Garner gets a lesson from students on the interactive Smart Projector teachers are using to increase learning engagement. Small groups take turns answering questions with online learning software.

into a blended “Flex Lab”, as well.

Three new security camera servers were installed to support hundreds of new and additional IP security cameras across the district.

Future projects include the replacement of staff devices at GBHS West Campus and the addition of live-streaming cameras through Pixellot to allow live-viewing of athletic events at the football field and Tartoni gym. Wiring will be upgraded between central office and the Press Box to allow for these cameras.

New fronts of room at Anderson, Cook, Indian Hill and McGrath Elementary buildings will include projector walls, touchscreen wall-mounted interactive projectors, sound fields, sit/stand comput-

er tables for teachers, and Apple TV’s for Grades K-1. Printer, copier, and security camera addition and replacement and regular maintenance will continue.

Technology has introduced a new staff member: Network Engineer, Jayson Taylor. The technology staff has moved into their new office in the Perry Innovation Center. Mr. Wansitler says their communication has increased 10-fold already, and they are happy to have enough room for staff and equipment to be under one roof.

It is truly an exciting time as Grand Blanc Community Schools brings public education into the 21st century, thanks to a truly supportive community. •

The furniture is modern, flexible and comfortable. A projector wall gives the space even more versatility, and bright colors add to the cheerful atmosphere.

This summer, the renovations will continue with major construction on the Anderson Elementary Library and Tech Ex room, Indian Hill Elementary Library and Cook Elementary Library. •

GB Shout! Volume III • Page 15

SCHOOL BEGINS SEPTEMBER 4 (Full Day)

GRAND BLANC COMMUNITY SCHOOLS 2018-19 S

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218 Reid Rd. in Grand Blanc

11:30am

Students 18 & under will receive a FREE nutritious lunch!

No ID is required and you do not have to be a Grand Blanc resident.

Adult supervision will not be provided and adults will be responsible for their own meals.

FOOD BANK FRIDAYS! Activities and prizes and a nutrition bag for the weekend will be supplied by the program!

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grandblancschools.org!

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Thank you to our dedicated board members for all their hard work this year, and always!

Grand Blanc Board of Education 2018 President: James Avery, Jr. Vice-President: Curtis Jablonski Secretary: Meredith Anderson Treasurer: Jay Hoffman Trustee: Martin Ray Trustee: Susan Kish Trustee: Yasmeen Youngs Page 16 • GB Shout! Volume III

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MIDDLE SCHOOLS Full Day .............................................................. 8:05 am— 3:02 pm 1/2 Day .............................................................. 8:05 am—11:29 am Late Start .............................................................. 10:25 am—3:02 pm

Anderson, Brendel, Cook, Indian Hill, Mason, McGrath, Myers, Reid ............. 8:40 am— 3:50 pm 1/2 Day .............................................................. 8:40 am—12:17 pm Late Start .............................................................. 11:00 am—3:50 pm

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

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DECEMBER 2018

The Bookmobile van will be driven by Grand Blanc principals!

See more info for stops and times at

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SCHOOL ENDS JUNE 14

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A Positivity Project Partner School Empowering students to build positive relationships. www.posproject.org • @posproject

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