Northwest Schools Spring Newsletter 2017

A Publication of Northwest Community Schools Northwest School District 6900 Rives Junction Road Jackson, MI 49201

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Northwest Preschool students celebrate Dr. Suess’s Birthday!

Spring 2017

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2016-17 Board of Education Shawn White President Brad Wait Vice President Phillip LaMaire Secretary Robert Sayles Treasurer William Balluff Dan Griswold Craig Staudinger Trustees

Table of Contents

Greetings Mountie Nation!

As the third trimester is in full swing and spring is finally here, the Mountie Nation is working harder than ever!

March is Reading Month was a huge success. Students are learning about what their next year will look like as we are offering student tours of our buildings, and/ or parent informational meetings. Our youngest Mounties are getting excited as Kindergarten RoundUp was a huge success.

Our leadership teams have been working diligently at providing not just academic but foundational support for all students. We are looking closely at our students that may be experiencing trauma and implemented a program called Handle With Care. This is a county-wide program with partnerships between law enforcement agencies and schools that support students that have had traumatic experiences. We have also trained many of our staff in Trauma Sensitive Strategies and Youth Mental Health First Aide. We are looking closely at our Attendance Policies, and planning to provide more community awareness about the importance of all our students attending school.

As you see, it is not just academics that is the focus here at Northwest, but to look at the whole child and all of their needs. We know that parents can’t do it alone, and we believe that together we can really make a difference in the lives of all our Northwest Mounties!

Have a wonderful spring!

We are Northwest…

Go Mounties!

Northwest Preschool/Childcare News 5 Northwest Early Elementary News ��6 Northwest Elementary News �����������9

Geoff Bontrager Ed.S. Superintendent

Middle School News..................... 11

Northwest Adopt a Family Thank You

High School News ������������������������20

Northwest Community Schools would like to thank the Mountie Nation students, staff, businesses, and community members - who very generously helped with our Adopt-a-Family program. This year was very successful. We greatly appreciate anyone who donated to and volunteered with our program.

Alternative High School News �������27

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Thank you to each of our school buildings, The First Church of the Nazarene, New Horizons Church, Hankerd Hills, Kavon’s, and The Lost Shoe for hosting giving trees.

In this time of economic uncertainty, it’s a blessing to be able to count on the spirit of kindness in our community. Thank you very much for instilling the spirit of giving in our community and for being an inspiration to all. WE ARE NORTHWEST!

DESIGN PRINT MAIL MARKETING Sincerely, Marnie Hade This newsletter is a publication of Northwest Community Schools.

Northwest Adopt a Family Coordinator

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Northwest Community Schools

NORTHWEST COMMUNITY SCHOOLS 6900 Rives Junction Road Jackson, MI 49201 (517) 817-4710

NORTHWEST COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday - Friday

The Northwest Community Health Center operated by the Center for Family Health opened at Kidder Middle School on September 16, 2013. In the past year, more than 1,200 people have received services. The health center is open to all kids and adolescents who are 21 years old or younger. The health center operates like a doctor’s office providing the following services:

• Physicals/Well Checks • Immunizations • Sick Visits • Counseling • Medicaid Enrollment

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETINGS 2017 MONTH May June

DATE May 8 June 12

LOCATION NEC - Admin. Office Board Room NEC - Admin. Office Board Room

NEC (Northwest Education Center)

All meetings are scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. unless otherwise posted.

Minutes: Minutes of all regular and special meetings are kept on file at the administration office located at 6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, Michigan.

Michigan Association of School Boards recently acknowledged the accomplishment of one of our board members, Robert Sayles, for achieving the Award of Distinction. We’re very proud of Mr. Sayles for taking the time to improve his leadership effectiveness by completing board 432l development courses.

The health center is convenient for parents. Students who attend KMS, Northwest High, or Northwest Alternative may use the health center without an adult present if their parent or guardian has given permission.

It is open all year round.

Please contact the health center for more information by calling:

(517) 569-3200 Spring 2017 | 3

www.nwschools.org

Homeless Act Provides for Students in Need

In these tough economic times, the needs of our school community are greater than ever. The passage of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act allows us to provide assistance to families and students dealing with homelessness. This assistance could be in the form of transportation to and from school, free meals, academic help, field trip and other school fees paid, and so on.

A student is considered homeless if one of the following categories is met: • Living on the street or in a car or abandoned building, etc.

• Living in a shelter such as Inter-Faith or AWARE. • Children placed in foster care are considered homeless for the first 6 months they are in the system.

• Doubling up -- Children and immediate family who have moved in with another family or relative.

• Hotel, Motel -- people who live in welfare sponsored rooms or rooms in

hotels/motels.

If you know of a family that might qualify according to these guidelines, please contact your school counselor.

Families and students in need should be aware of governmental support for the advancement of a student’s education through an initiative referred to as the McKinney-Vento Act. Any student who has had their living situation disrupted or strained might find financial assistance through this governmental program developed for assisting students in completing school. Students qualify if they and their family live with another family; or if they themselves live with another family; or if they are living with an extended family member due to financial considerations. Basic needs for assisting students in the task of attending school are areas where assistance might be granted: Summer school; additional course requirements; field trip costs; and even food and gas (as appropriate) are areas where support may be provided.

Contacts for this resource are set up in each school building.

NW Gold Club Anyone over 65 will get in FREE to NW Athletic events.

For information on joining the Northwest Gold Club, please call Sabrena Jenkins at 517-817-4754 or email sabrena. jenkins@nwschools.org.

Anyone who had a Gold Club Card prior to 2012-2013 school year is grandfathered in for the reduced admission.

(We are making these changes to be consistent with league procedures and policies.)

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Northwest Community Schools

NORTHWEST PRESCHOOL AND CHILDCARE CENTER IS ENROLLING NOW FOR THE 2017-2018 SCHOOL YEAR!!!!!

Northwest Preschool and Childcare offers: • 3 year old preschool with childcare • 3 year old half day preschool • 4 year old half day preschool • 4 year old full day preschool • 4 year old full day preschool with childcare • Before /After School Care for School Age Children Enrollment is going on now! Call 817-4741 for more details or to schedule a tour.

Northwest Preschool and Childcare Center also offers: A summer childcare program for children ages 4-12. Summer care begins June 12 and runs until August 17.

Call 817-4741 for more information on summer care. During the summer children experience:

• Fun weekly themes

• Art projects

• Science fun

• Field trips

• Outdoor games

• And much, much more!!!!

Northwest also offers an infant/toddler program. To find out more information on this awesome program that we offer to our smallest Mounties, please call 817-4741.

NORTHWEST ChiLdcArE Spring 2017 | 5

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Our Mrs. McAlpine Is Retiring At Kindergarten Round-Up parent meetings, I always remind parents how quickly time flies by and to treasure each new school year. Now, I have to realize the truth of those words. Time has flown by for me and now it is time for retirement; time for me to say farewell to an amazing career that has included the most amazing individuals.

As I reflect on my years at Northwest, I have been so fortunate to have worked with so many people in so many ways. As I say goodbye, I want to take a few moments to acknowledge and recognize you, but to let you know just how important you are to me.

To my support staff: What hard work you do that helps add to the overall school experience for our little ones.

• Thank you my crazy playground ladies that love being outside more than the kids. You give our little ones your hearts as you play with them and work to make sure that they are safe.

Because the kids know your names tells of the relationships that you build with them.

• Thank you my ladies in the lunchroom-both supervisors and cooks. You make sure our little ones are eating, and you have opened gazillions of packages that just won’t open for those little fingers. You work to make sure the kids have a clean and safe place to eat.

• Thank you to my ladies that work to keep our building clean.

When we need your help to clean up after our sick or messy kids (or adults!), we sure do appreciate your quick, kind response.

You take care of us by making sure we have clean spaces to work and learn.

• Thank you to my literacy aides. Watching you work with students, helping them build confidence and instilling a love for reading is priceless. What a reward to hear your students exclaim, “I’m reading!”

• Thank you to my special education aides/kindergarten aides.

Your work with students to help them is patient and you never give up despite challenges. Watching your pride in your students when your efforts start to pay off is heartwarming. Thanks for never giving up.

• Thank you to my library clerk and computer aide. Sharing your love of books and technology allows different ways to learn.

Thank you for taking care of our books and computers so that they are always available for students.

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To my teaching staff: I have always admired your dedication and caring for our precious students. I have loved watching you work to be the very best teachers that you can be whether it is curriculum, interventions or how best to reach our students to help them succeed. Your other strength is your support of each other in the good times and in those trying times. You have always been there for whatever is needed. Thanks for so many memories...and laughs!

To my office staff: It’s going to be hard to leave my backbone behind!

Each of you have such an important role in helping to make the school run. The secretaries, that have eight arms and four ears, can handle so many things at once and still manage to comfort a little one with a fever, lost tooth, “owie” or give a needed hug. The counselors that manage to calm the anxieties of children, parents, or anyone else while providing so many services to support our families.

It warms my heart to know of all the special things that you do to bring a smile to a child’s face. The special education folks that help us find just the right ways to help our little ones learn. The ABC room supervisor for providing a calm spot for our kids to reflect and get back on track. Thanks for being such a great team that puts kids first!

To my fellow administrators: What a great group of leaders! You have taught me so much over the years. Thanks for your ideas and suggestions whenever needed. Keep working to show the greatness of Northwest.

To my parents: Thank you for sharing your child with me. I have enjoyed working with you, getting to know you and sharing in those victories. Never hesitate to share how “our” kids are doing.

To my kids: Thanks for laughing at my riddles every day, believing I was 19, creating free entertainment and always making me feel special. You always made my day with your smiles. I hope that I was able to instill an understanding of how to treat others, confidence in yourself and a love for learning. I believe in you and I know that you can accomplish anything. Most of all, I will always appreciate those special hugs. Never hesitate to say “hi” if you see me!

It really does take a village, the Northwest village, to raise a child.

Each of you have been an important part of my career. I have made so many friends during my years at Northwest. It has been a privilege to work with such an awesome team. Thank you for the best years ever. You are my Northwest family!

Lorri McAlpine, Principal

Northwest Community Schools

Early Elementary S.T.E.M. News “All second grade classes took a trip to AllSkate for a S.T.E.M. field trip. During the field trip students had a 45 minute, hands-on, S.T.E.M. lesson about sound. After the lesson the students applied what they had learned on the skating rink. Everyone had a great time and learned how fun S.T.E.M. can be!!”

Reading Month Guest Reader Angela Martinez, Miss Jackson Crossroads Outstanding Teen 2017 On March 1st the second grade classes kicked off March is Reading Month by enjoying books read by Miss Martinez in both Spanish and English. They had a ton of fun asking her questions about her pageant life and growing up bilingual.

Cascades Humane Society Wins Popular Vote!

The first grade students at Northwest Early Elementary participated in some hands-on learning during voting season. Students learned about what it meant to be a registered voter. We researched candidates and learned about the voting process. Since we couldn’t vote on the actual candidates, we voted on a charity to raise money for. Students lined up and took turns filling out their ballots and casting their vote. They even got their own “I voted” sticker. Cascades Humane Society won the popular vote! Our first grade students raised over $300! A class was even given the privilege of presenting the check, along with other donations, to Cascades Humane Society. It was a wonderful experience that allowed the students an opportunity to think outside of themselves, and support our community.

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Mounties Love To Give Back!

Second graders from Mrs. Keathley and Mrs. Alexanders’ classrooms painted bowls for the American 1 Soup Wars event that took place on Sunday, February 12, 2017. The event features area restaurants sampling their soups. All proceeds went to the Interfaith Shelter in Jackson. The first 50 people who purchased their tickets went home with a bowl painted by one of our very own NWEE students! Students worked very hard to create masterpiece bowls; they loved knowing their hard work would help to sell tickets for this great cause.

MENTOR SPOTLIGHT Energizing Education Name: Emily Kemler Business: CP Federal Credit Union Why did you decide to become a volunteer? Reading was always a favorite activity of mine growing up so I wanted to be able to share that with a child who might not be getting that enjoyment out of reading yet. When they are struggling with what they read it doesn’t feel fun so I wanted to help take away the struggle and bring the fun.

How has your experience been so far? My experience has been amazing so far. Faith has learned so much and I’m very proud of her progress.

Favorite childhood book: My favorite books growing up were the Boxcar Children books.

Favorite book now: I still love to read and am always finding my next favorite.

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Energizing Education is in its fourth year at Northwest. We have been very fortunate that each year we have had tremendous support from all of the folks that come to mentor each week.

Mentors come from all walks of life, from retired, to currently working to

college students.

Find out more! http://energizingeducationjackson.org or Energizing Education on Facebook For volunteer information: Contact Charlie Miller energizingeducation@ uwjackson.org To Donate: Contact Lois Dunning at ldunning@uwjackson.org

Northwest Community Schools

Northwest Elementary News Eric Kelly, Principal Not to long ago I severed the extensor tendon in my left thumb. I was working on a wood project and was using a brand new wood chisel. Needless to say, the chisel traveled through my tendon like a hot knife through butter. The wound was gruesome and the four hour trip to the emergency room was less than desirable. After surgery and a few physical therapy appointments, I could move my thumb with relative ease but my range of motion was limited. It is difficult to describe the disappointment that comes from trying to do something physical, and the results are inadequate because your body simply won’t respond. My thumb would not work correctly! No matter how hard I tried, my thumb was weak and would not allow me to grip things properly, I needed help. I greatly dislike asking for help. I am stubborn, sometimes really stubborn. I started asking for help with tasks that I could do easily before cutting my thumb, it was hard, and it was humbling.

Such is life, it seems that we are not easily able to accomplish the things we truly want to do, and the things we put little effort into seem to come so easily. So how do we get past this conundrum?

Ask for help.

NWEL School is a place where staff members are constantly helping one another. We help one another, we help families, we help the students, and we help the district in the collective.

During the month of March, schools across the state celebrate reading. I dare say, that no school in the great state of Michigan can rival what we do here at NWEL School. We have assemblies, contests, guest authors, track students reading, and yes, we read, read, read! This is a collaborative effort and the entire building is bustling with activities, all-month-long! We end the month with an all school assembly where staff play games, students win prizes, and students win bicycles for being top readers in our school. This is possible because we ask for help from parents, students and community members. Thank you for being a part of the NWEL School. Thank you for supporting us. Thank you for allowing us to help you. Thank you for allowing us to ask you for help!

Travel Basketball Northwest Elementary began a 4/5 girls travel basketball team this winter sponsored by Polly’s Country Market. Twelve girls were on the team coached by fourth grade teacher Justin Brown and assisted

by Andy Moore. The team learned valuable lessons on the court and grew exponentially in skill level. This year the team traveled to seven tournaments finishing first at the Western High School tournament and third at the Spring Arbor University tournament. Members of the team included: Madison Dixon, Emma Flynn, Ellie Gallant, Ava Golightly, Caleigh Graham, Josephine Hackborn, Sofia Johnson, Mara Mitchell, Addi Moore, Georgia Morelock, Mollie Robinson and Emma Sczykutowicz.

Celebrating the tournament win at Western HS

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Our MiCI students at NWEL participated in Destination Imagination on March 16 at the JCISD. They learned about simple machines and did an instant challenge in which the students built bridges. Students earned a certificate and medal!

(Amanda Kennedy)

Aliens In Our School There was an Alien Invasion at NWEL during 2017’s Reading Month. Every room at NWEL had a special visitor from outer space. Why were they here? To read, of course! This year NWEL’s reading month theme was, “Take Me to Your Reader”, and our calendar of reading events was full of ways to celebrate reading. The month kicked-off with NWEL participating in Renaissance Place’s annual ReadQuest. We had an all-day Read-a-thon, and classrooms competed against each other to see who could get the most AR points. Prizes were awarded to these classrooms thanks to Northwest Community Schools (NWCS) PTO. Students and staff participated in daily dress-up days, such as monster hair day and read your pants day. NWCS’s PTO along with NWCS’s Learning Coalition allowed us the opportunity to have Author & Illustrator team, Karen and Darrin Brege. As a husband and wife, their goal when they presented was to inspire, educate and entertain. Their presentations were high-energy and interactive. They shared how they wrote their popular series, Mick Morris Myth Solver, and they enjoyed seeing the alien myths that had taken over our school.

A big thank you goes out to the NWCS’s PTO! Their funding contribution to reading month helped us bring the Brege’s, and pay for six winning classrooms to enjoy the Art Dog program brought to us by Amy Fracker, a teacher at the Jackson Arts. We gave away hundreds of free books and over 100 free reading month t-shirts. We also had

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students who won gift certificates to our upcoming Spring Scholastic Book Fair that runs Monday, April 24th-Friday, April 28th.

Another big thank you also goes out to Jackson Northwest Kiwanis.

They have been huge supporters of NWEL’s March is Reading Month for many years. This year six lucky students walked away with brand new bikes for their reading efforts during March. Thank you, Jackson Northwest Kiwanis for your generous donations.

NWEL would also like to thank Jim and Linda Lawrie for their generous donation as well. Two more students received gently used bicycles as a reward for meeting their reading goals for the month of March.

NWEL is such a great place to be, even when we have been taken over by Aliens! We hope that our students continue to foster their love of books. NWEL is so proud of the students’ hard work they put into reading each and every day, and the teachers and staff who teach, encourage, and promote reading in their classrooms. Remember, March isn’t the only time to put reading first – it’s a reminder to always make time to read, explore, imagine and learn!

Northwest Community Schools

Middle School News Dan Brooks, Principal As the end of the school year approaches, it is a great time to congratulate our students for all of their successes this year. Our students have done an outstanding job in the classrooms, during athletic competitions, and in their music performances. They also have displayed a high level of compassion and kindness to others in our building and the community. We will be recognizing our students for their achievements at the end of the year during our award ceremonies.

We encourage all of our parents to attend these events as we celebrate the success of our students this school year. I also want to take a moment to thank all of our parents for everything that you do to help us have a terrific school year. We appreciate all that you do for our students and staff. We are not able to do all that we accomplish without your help. We have had a great year and are looking forward to the final few weeks with our students before they leave for the summer, or go on to the high school to start a new chapter in their lives.

National Geographic Bee The National Geographic Bee Finals were held on Thursday, February 2nd at Kidder Middle School. After the preliminary rounds, 10 finalists were determined. The finalists were Marcus Arborouet, Kiegan Cowan, Ben Shepherd, Zach Williams, Anthony Rydjord, Landon Rambadt, DJ Vanderpool, Kiernan Deneka, Emily Crews, and Ben Warner. It was great to see the finalists show off what they have learned. Emily Crews had an impressive showing and was our 2nd place finisher. Our middle school champion for 2017 is Kiegan Cowan.

Geography Bee runner-up Emily Crews and Champion Keigan Cowan

Kids2College for 8th Grade Since January, the 8th graders have been working through the Kids2College program, which is a college and career readiness curriculum, in their Language Arts classes. Mrs. Holbrook talked with them about their future plans as they prepare to go on to high school. The topics have included choosing a career that is best for each student, and understanding the necessary requirements to access that career through education and training. In February, students visited the Career Center with Mr. Blume, Mr. Brooks, and their respective teachers to see what vocational opportunities await them in high school. Amanda Norris, from the Jackson College and Career Access Center, also visited KMS and presented material regarding the skilled trades. Students went on a college and manufacturing

Mrs. Holbrook’s Tour Group at Spring Arbor University

visit Thursday, March 16th. Each 8th grade student had an opportunity to tour either Jackson College, Baker College, or Spring Arbor University, and a manufacturing facility in Jackson-with the exception of AIS Equipment in Lansing. This was a chance for every student to visit a college campus and see what career opportunities are available in the area. At the conclusion of the program, students took away valuable information in preparation for high school. On the evening of March 16th, 8th graders attended an 8th Grade Transition Night hosted by the high school. On March 17th the high school counselors came to KMS to register 8th graders for their freshman classes. Overall, it has been a beneficial program for all 8th grade students as they pursue their future goals.

8th graders at Spring Arbor University

8th graders at American Tool in Grass Lake

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March is Reading Month at Kidder In honor of March is Reading Month, KMS challenged students to read and take AR tests for the books they read. When students passed a test with 80% or higher, students received a raffle ticket that entered them into a drawing for a $10 Amazon Gift Card. On Fridays in the month of March one ticket from each grade was drawn. Below you will see some of our winners. At the end of the month all raffle tickets were put into an additional drawing to win a $50 gift card to District 5 in Lansing. Other activities for the month included a book exchange and classroom read-a-thons.

8th Grade Winner - Emily Crews • 6th Grade Winner - Keegan Burman 7th Grade Winner - Kellie Freund

6th Grade Winner - Kaleb Murton • 8th Grade Winner - Michael Yearling 7th Grade Winner - Kassidy Murray

On February 23rd, members of the National Junior Honor Society visited Mr. Kujawa’s fourth grade classroom and partnered with students to write thank you letters to returning service men and women. Each fourth grader had a NJHS member sit with them and guide them through the writing process. After writing letters, students decorated and drew patriotic pictures.

Aspen Tapley, a seventh grade NJHS member, coordinated this project to earn her Service Learning Hours. Her younger sister, Kennedy Tapley, is in Mr. Kujawa’s classroom. Every year their father collects and posts letters and distributes Girl Scout Cookies to service men and women at our local 303rd U.S. Army Reserve, and has graciously offered to include these students’ letters and pictures with his post.

It was rewarding to watch the students collaborate on such a worthy project.

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Northwest Community Schools

Middle School Leo Club

One year ago the Northwest Leo Club was formed as 31 middle schoolers were confirmed in at a ceremony held at the Kidder Middle School library, and are now members of the community service organization. The purpose of the Leo Club is to teach civic responsibility through community service. This studentrun organization votes in new student leadership every year and along with their adult sponsors, Doug Blume and Vicki Lautzenheiser, seek to find ways to meet the needs surrounding the Northwest community.

This year President Lucy Nurkka and her staff have led the Leos in a leaf raking day at Youth Haven Ranch, assisted production of Spooky Sprint for Scholars 5K Run, Eyeglasses Drive, served in the afternoon at Salvation Army Family Christmas, conducted a book drive, and recently traveled to NW Early Elementary to read to the youngsters there. Lucy has also been named Leo of the Year for her service in Jackson County.

If you are aware of a service opportunity for the Northwest Leo Club please contact Doug Blume at doug.blume@nwschools.org.

Middle School Choir News Peyton Lowder is the recipient of a “Tuesday Musicale” singing scholarship. She plans on using the funds for her Choral Europe Tour this summer with the “Blue Lake International Choir”. Congrats Peyton!

Ayden Gerding just after performing his vocal solos at First Presbyterian Church. Ayden is one of many who take voice lessons as a part of his choral education at NWMS. Danielle Louagie (not pictured) also auditioned for a summer music camp scholarship.

In preparation for choir festival, ESCHOIR (7th & 8th gentlemen) learns how to tie a windsor knot using donated practice ties.

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Break-Out! A dystopian society can be described as a place where everything is unpleasant or bad; in contrast, a utopian society is a place where everything is perfect and ideal. After reading Anthem, by Ayn Rand, 8th grade students had to rescue their “free will” out of a BreakOut Box.

were able to identify the right code and piece together information, they could unlock a lock. Some of the clues involved using a black light, putting a series of pictures in the right order, and correctly solving math problems.

Thanks to the Jackson Intermediate School District, students were able experience something new in the Language Arts classroom.

With a Break-Out Box, students are challenged to work collaboratively to solve a series of critical thinking puzzles and unlock the box. This is a new and innovative way to transfer the concepts learned in class to a more hands-on activity. For this particular box, students had to solve a series of clues focused on utopian and dystopian societies. Once they

Northwest Kidder Middle School was well represented at the County Wide Spelling Bee on Tuesday, March 14th at the Western Community Arts Center. Out of 57 spellers county wide, Harshita Rathod - 8th grade placed 2nd, and Karson Schroeder placed 11th. Both students performed extremely well and we are very proud of their efforts.

Students from KMS team up with Detroit Lions players at Fuel Up to Play 60 Rally at Ford Field Five students from KMS recently traveled to Ford Field in Detroit for the 7th Fuel Up to Play 60 Rally for School Health Event. The students who attended were: Bianca Bush, Chloe Hinkley, Duncan Moffitt, Kenzie Rowley and Anthony Rydjord. Students were accompanied by Mrs. Silvey, Mrs. Delbridge and Mr. Moffitt. Students from 34 schools were in attendance.

Students started their day with a motivational talk from 6’ 11” Kevin Laue, the first player missing a limb(arm) to play NCAA Division 1 basketball. They also ran through the tunnel onto the field to “Play 60” with Detroit Lions offensive guard Laken Tomlinson and Lion legend Jason Hanson; they enjoyed a “taste test” lunch, learned about the importance of nutrition on brain health, and learned from Detroit Lions running back Ameer Abdullah how to eat healthy, be active and make a difference.

Through the experience, students gained valuable and practical leadership skills for sharing nutrition and health information and encouraging peers, fellow students, and school leaders to adopt healthier eating habits and add more physical activity to their day.

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Northwest Community Schools

Middle School Sports KMS 7TH GRADE BOYS’ BASKETBALL TEAMS HAVE OUTSTANDING SEASON

KMS 7TH GRADE GIRLS’ BASKETBALL TEAMS MAKE TREMENDOUS PROGRESS

The 7th Grade KMS Boys’ Basketball Teams finished their season right before winter break. The Red Team finished 10 – 0, capturing the outright I – 8 League Title. Many of their games were close. The most dramatic game was at Coldwater on November 30th. Trailing by one point with less than 10 seconds remaining, the Mounties perfectly executed a side-line out of bounds play that broke Jermaine Buckner free for a layup that proved to be the game winning basket. Leading scorers for the season were Jermaine Buckner (197 points: 7th Grade Boys’ Red Team Season Record), Joey Young (105), Ian Weller (66), Carson Cooper (60), Nolen Novak (35), and Ethan Anspaugh (31). Defensive leaders were Jermaine Buckner, Nolen Novak, and Ethan Anspaugh. Dylan Leutz and Ashton Golightly were very good all season at both ends of the floor. - - - The Black Team finished with 7 wins and 3 losses which was good enough for a third place finish in the I-8 Conference. Leading scorers for the season were Koby Castle (114 points), Brogan Buchler (56), Jay Bemis (55), Nolan Ulch (54), Anthony Windman (49), Peyton Garner (40), and Keegan Vowels (38). Anthony Avant, Javier Campbell, and Landon Rambadt also made valuable contributions to the team’s success all season.

The 7th Grade KMS Girls’ Basketball Teams had a fantastic season. Their dedication, hard work, perseverance and effort netted them five wins as they made tremendous strides in developing their individual and team basketball skills this season.

Leah Aflred, Chloe Hinkley, Olivia Lamb and Abbie Sczykutowicz provided the core leadership and experienced foundation of the Red Team. Savannah Anderson missed much of season due to a wrist injury, but when she was able to play she was a major contributor, particularly on defense. Bianca Bush, Jade Sayles and Aspen Tapley developed into solid offense threats and all played excellent defense throughout the season. Kaitlyn Fairley also missed much of the season due to a wrist injury, but was a force in the paint during the games she could play.

The Black Team was anchored by the unbridled energy of Tomiah Cowper.

Cowper, Makayla Campbell, Katterina Mierzwa and Kylee Penrod were the primary contributors on offense. Cowper, Nevaeh Yenne, Sydney Starnes were standouts on defense. Makiyah Butler, Kaylee Reynolds, Madison Smith and Madison Taylor contributed on both sides of the court.

The Black Team had a thrilling comeback from behind victory playing at home in the high school auxiliary gym for the last game of the season. All of the girls put in an inspiring effort. The victory was sealed by Kaylee Reynolds’ two free throws with 40 seconds left to go in the game and an exciting defensive flurry to deny JCMS a final shot.

KMS 8TH GRADE GIRLS’ BASKETBALL TEAMS HAVE UNDEFEATED SEASON

The 8th Grade KMS Girls’ Basketball Teams finished their season the last week of February. - - - The Red Team finish 11 – 0 to win the I-8 League Title outright.

They had many close games, including a thrilling 36 – 35 win at home against Marshall after trailing twice by one point in the final minute of the game.

Leading scorers for the season were Henly Sleight (134 points), Mary Crowley (111), Megan Swartz (101), Mallory Anspaugh (83), and Madison Neitzke (40).

Defensive stand-outs were Abbey Christner and Mallory Anspaugh. Addisyn Ryan and Makenna Osterholm also played large roles in their team’s successful season. - - - The Black Team mirrored the Red Team’s success with a 10 – 0 record and outright I-8 League Championship. They never had a lead in an early season game at home against Lumen Christi until Victoria Craft made a pressure packed shot with just 2 seconds on the clock to give the Mounties a 12 – 10 victory. Leading scorers for the season were McKayla Eldred (137: 8th Grade Girls’ Black Team Season Record), Lucy Nurkka (49), Kara Clingerman (37), and Raina Cockream (27). Craft, Alex Hicks, Rylee Trojanowicz, Keara Hunter, Emily DuBois, Reegan Trojanowicz, Mia Givens, and Gabriela Koons also made valuable contributions to the team’s success all season.

Spring 2017 | 15

Mounties

Northwest Community Schools News

Smiles, Waves, and Hugs Applauded Honoring Lee Webb

On Thursday, March 16 the student body and staff of Northwest High School, as well as several community members, gathered to surprise Mr. Lee Webb to thank him for his continuous support of our programs. You may know Lee as the man who runs around the secondary campus waving and smiling at everyone each and every day.

The program was organized by the high school’s Be More Kind Club. Lee was presented with several gifts from programs and teams, including scrapbooks filled with letters written for him.

www.nwschools.org

Northwest Community Schools News

Mounties

Spreading Kindness Like Confetti High School’s Be More Kind Club Sponsors Variety of Activities to Encourage Gratitude The Be More Kind Club has been sponsoring regular opportunities for high school students and staff members to share their gratitude, and appreciation for one another since February 14.

These activities include: thank you cards and positive post its, an appreciation tunnel, kindness themed sentence strips that were used to create a “Be Kind!” display, the Letters for Lee campaign, Be Nice t-shirt sales, and much more.

Photos by Senior Hailey Baker, Senior Betty Sue Blankenship, Junior Audriana Chenoweth, Junior Danielle Griswold, Miss Marnie Hade, and Mrs. Rebecca Moulton.

www.nwschools.org

Use this QR code to watch the “surprise” gratitude video for Lee created by Mountie Nation Station staff members Chelsea DeVolder and Devyn Garner. Or go to https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=TiGGm0fTFSE&t=544s

www.nwschools.org

Middle School Sports KMS 8TH GRADE LADIES’ BASKETBALL TEAM ON BART HAWLEY SHOW

On March 14th, JTV and the Bart Hawley Show came to Kidder Middle School to celebrate two consecutive years of undefeated seasons for the Red Team and this year’s undefeated season for the Black Team. The show aired on March 15th. Red Team Members were: Henly Sleight, Abbey Christner, Madison Neitzke, Mary Crowley, Addisyn Ryan, Megan Swartz, Mallory Anspaugh, and Maekenna Osterholm. Black Team Members were Victoria Craft, Kara Clingerman, Alex Hicks, Rylee Trojanowicz, Raina Cockream, Keara Hunter, Lucy Nurkka, Emily DuBois, Reegan Trojanowicz, Mia Givens, Gabriela Koons, and Mckayla Eldred. They were coached the past two years by Chris Brown, Chelsea Daniels, Meredith Berry, Todd Dickinson, Mark Hoyt, and Dan Good.

Mounties on Television!

They finished the season 22-2 in head-to-head duals only losing to Holt, taking 2nd at the Chelsea Tournament, and Champions at the Jr. JAWS Tournament.

Congratulations on an impressive season.

Keep up the hard work!

Go Mounties!

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Jackson, Michigan

Northwest High School’s Television Station!!

Check out our website by scanning this QR reader or go to www.mountienationstation.com

Follow us on Twitter at MountieNationStation

The MS Wrestler’s finished off their conference meets going UNDEFEATED in the I-8 Conference and going UNDEFEATED at the Jr. JAWS Tournament.

NW Broadcasting

Follow us on Instagram at NWMountieNationStation

Mountie Nation Station NW Broadcasting

Northwest Community Schools

Northwest Junior Equestrian Team The Northwest Junior Equestrian Team started off the 2017 season, and what a great start! The team has begun weekly practices at Thistle Dew Ranch on Onondaga Rd. in Tomkins. Thistle Dew has been a great support to the team over the years.

On Tuesday, March 14th, the team had a team-building meeting…a great way to start the season! The team-building activity had students/riders of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade work together in a blindfold “trail class”. Each “rider” led a blindfolded “horse” through an “obstacle course” resembling a typical trail class they would enter in a competition on horseback. The “riders” and “horses” had to use communication, teamwork, patience, and trust in order to be successful in making it through the course.

Another team-building activity required team members to use these same skills using a horse training tool called a “carrot stick”. The carrot stick is for giving cues, not for hitting horses, and takes some savvy to handle!

Coaches Esther Hitchcock and Angela Klobuchar were happy to see that within the laughs and new friendships, there was a lot of skill learning taking place. On another positive note, Makayla Thrush, Northwest graduate and NW Equestrian Team alumnus was there as a positive mentor to the team.

As part of Northwest, we know how important being a team player, getting to know each other well, and good sportsmanship are! The Northwest Equestrian Teams have consistently won MIHA district sportsmanship awards for well over 10 years. Coaches Dave Cox, Esther Hitchcock, and Angela Klobuchar couldn’t be more proud. Go Mounties!

For more team information contact: Dave Cox 517-581-6081.

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High School News Scott Buchler, Principal It is that busy time of year. Some of us are planning for graduation and open houses while others are selecting classes they will take next year. Several students are preparing for our annual testing and others are planning college moves or employment opportunities. We are closing our winter sports season and spring sports are beginning. Transitions abound as we look forward to warmer weather and helping our students prepare for their next phase of their journey.

We just held our annual 8th Grade Transition Night. We had a great representation from the class of 2021 and their families. This is an excellent opportunity to start to get to know our new students, and showcase many great things going on here at the high school.

We want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support over these last several months. We continue to be very proud at the following of our Mountie Nation family. Feel free to join us at one of our many spring events or activities. We look forward to seeing you!

Peer Connections Class

NORTHWEST GRADUATION 2017 IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER Friday, May 5, 2017: (more info to come)

Senior Decision Day

7:00 am – 11:00 am

Northwest High School Cafetorium Monday, May 22, 2017:

Honors Convocation

7:00 pm

Northwest High School Cafetorium Tuesday, May 23, 2017:

Seniors Only – Graduation Practice

8:30 am (Seniors who do not attend, will not participate in Graduation Ceremonies)

Seniors receive cap, gown and graduation tickets (8 per student)all fines/fees and academic requirements must be met and paid for prior to receiving Wednesday, May 24, 2017: Baccalaureate

7:00 pm

Northwest High School Cafetorium Thursday, May 25, 2017:

Graduation

7:00 pm – (5:00pm Lifetouch will begin taking Class Composite picture in Cap & Gown)

Northwest High School

Project Graduation

10:00 pm – 4:00 am

Spring Arbor University Field House

Peer Connections is a class where students with disabilities partner up with mentor students at NWHS. In 2nd trimester the students spent time working together to develop friendships. Many of them attended a varsity basketball game together with their new friends. Senior Makenna Burman likes being in Peer Connections, commenting, “Because of this class, we get to build relationships that many students wouldn’t”. Students this trimester worked together to plan a holiday party and a Valentine’s party with snacks and activities for themselves and special guests. They learned Spanish words and songs and spent time learning laundry and sewing skills. Students also designed and decorated tissue boxes which included positive and uplifting quotes. The completed boxes were delivered to many teachers’ classrooms. Peer Connections students also supported the Kindness Initiative at the HS by making a variety of posters celebrating kindness to decorate the hallways.

Dede Rush, Becky Moulton

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Northwest Community Schools

Mental Health Awareness at NWHS Welcome “Breaking Chains” as the newest student-run group at NWHS. Several months ago, Marissa Mata attended some meetings of “The Light” mental health awareness group at LifeWays Community Mental Health in Jackson. She loved the concept and wanted to bring it to Northwest. Mata and friend Makenna Burman met with JCISD Project AWARE’s Ravenn Moore

and JCISD Whole Child Consultant Janelle Buchler to explore options.

Mata and Burman created “Breaking Chains” at NWHS to bring awareness to adolescent mental health issues.

In March, the students involved in Breaking Chains organized a 45-minute staff education session with guests from LifeWays and a panel of students who have experienced mental illness.

Parenting: Building Character in Children with Books How can you build strong character when raising children? Reading The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak is a good way to start. Or try out one of the 30 other picture books recommended by Lucy Wines of the Jackson District Library. In February, Wines shared helpful hints and tips for reading aloud to kids with students in Mrs. Rush’s Parenting class. The students identified positive character traits featured in the books then practiced reading them aloud to one another. The students found a few of their own childhood favorites, but also found some new must reads! Check out Chicken Cheeks by Michael Ian Black and Press Here by Herve Tullet.

NWHS NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY NWEL TALENT SHOW 2017

Thank you Mackenzie Deladurantaye for creating our Prom invitations and sharing your magnificent Mountie talent with us.

National Honor Society hosted the annual Northwest Elementary Talent Show on Feb. 2. All profits went toward local patients at Allegiance Hospital through Shannon’s Helping Hand, a charity for cancer patients. There were a total of 20 acts ranging from singing and dancing, card tricks, painting, gymnastics, basketball tricks, and karate. With the combined bake sale and talent show, National Honor Society raised a total of $500. Thank you to everyone for your support!

Spring 2017 | 21

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High School Band News Concert Band and Wind Ensemble Earn Top Scores at District Festival Both the Northwest Wind Ensemble and the Northwest Concert Band performed at the MSBOA District VIII Band Festival on March 3rd and 4th. The Festival, hosted at Jackson High, brought in bands from Jackson, Eaton, Ingham, Hillsdale, and Lenawee counties. Bands were scored by 3 judges and awarded ratings based on their performance. They were also judged on their music “sightreading” ability.

Both Northwest High School bands received 1st Division, or “Superior”, Ratings from all the judges.

The judges said the Concert Band was a professional, well-run ensemble.

One judge said that they “finally proved that a large band can play all ranges of volume”.

The Wind Ensemble amazed the judges with their performance of Frank Ticheli’s “American Elegy”, with one judge simply stating, “Wow, kids, this is so musical.”

Both ensembles will perform at the State Band Festival on Saturday, April 29th.

Amazing Performances Already Happening in NW Cafetorium The Northwest High School Cafetorium has been in full use since October 2015, and the Northwest Band has already had some amazing performances in the facility. It has become quite the home for the Northwest Bands and amazing musical moments have been shared with the students and community.

Recently, the Northwest Wind Ensemble and Vocal Dimension shared the stage with the Western High School Symphonic Band and Select Choir. The “Masterworks Concert” has been a tradition for the Northwest Band since 2007 and has grown into a performance that features the Western Band and the Northwest Choir.

It is usually held at Western High School, but 2017 was the first year the Masterworks could feature Northwest as the HOST groups and Western as our guests. It was a special evening that featured the Wind Ensemble performing Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “English Folk Song Suite”.

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Top Band Students Nominated for All-State @ Youth Arts Festival Because of their OUTSTANDING performances at State Solo and Ensemble, Abby Becraft (clarinet) and Logan Frewen (percussion) were nominated to perform with the All-State Band as part of the Michigan Youth Arts Festival (MYAF) in May. MYAF brings together the most outstanding high school band, choir, orchestra, drama, visual arts, and dance students for three days of performances at Western Michigan University.

Additionally, Logan was selected as one of the state’s “Top Soloists”. This gives him the opportunity to audition to perform as a featured soloist at MYAF.

Lansing Symphony Orchestra and MSU Provide a Great Field Trip for Band Students Several Northwest Band students travelled to MSU’s Wharton Center to watch the Lansing Symphony perform a concert featuring music by Latin composers. The LSO performed two pieces the Marching Mounties played as part of their 2015 halftime show “En Feugo de la Malaguena”: “Concierto de Aranjuez” and “Malaguena”.

Northwest Community Schools

Band Students Compete in Solo and Small Group Festival Northwest Band students broke off from the large groups to perform and compete at the MSBOA District VIII Solo/Ensemble Festival.

Fifty-three students performed solos, duets, trios, and quartets at the DISTRICT S/E Festival on February 4th at Haslett High School. They were judged by experts on their instruments and awarded a “Rating”.

Students that earned a 1st Division, or “Superior”, Rating from their judge at Districts are invited to perform at the State S/E Festival on March 18th at East Lansing High School. Northwest sent 29 students who all performed at this prestigious event!

Solo and Ensemble Participants

District Solo and Ensemble

Audri Chenoweth Blake Matthews

Hailee Danilowsky Sarah Conroy

Luke Hendrich Madison Collard

Jarred Becraft Kelsy Lopes

Avery Fisher Aria Ward

Noah Woodruff Mark Warren

Evan White David Zielinski

Samuel Hibbs Timothy Brock

Seth Swartout Zack Hoaglin

Ben Shaw Alex Roth

Anya Hedrich Alisha Musgrove

Emily Sexton Adrienne Fisher

District and State Solo and Ensemble Abby Becraft Clayton Waterbury Madi Huff Mackenzie Martin Bobby Kampf Zach Newhouse Austin Richmond Megan Brooks Taryn Hendershot Caitlin Huber Dale Wahl Eve Vicary Victoria Brock Brittney Fleming Kayleigh Schulz Zach McEldowney Matthew Kanalas Matthew Niemi Jenna Futrell Kelsey Murton Nate Taylor RJ Fogarty Elijah Price Sydney Dreyer Leah Olmsted Austin Friess Olivia Olmsted Logan Frewen John Sparks

Pep Band Wraps Up Season The Northwest Pep Band performed at 13 basketball games this year, entertaining the crowd at all Friday night home games. This year’s Pep Band was so large, it had to be split up into two groups: one to play for girls games and another for the boys!

A special “Thank You” from Mr. Mangiavellano to the great seniors in Pep Band for an outstanding season of music making!

2016-17 Yearbooks On Sale You know how important it is to hold on to your memories. The almost 200 page, full color 2016-2017 edition of the Northwest High School Retrospective is on sale at yearbookforever.com or with Miss Hade in room 106 of the high school while supplies last. Late fees now apply, so the cost of a base yearbook is $75.00 while supplies last. At this time, additions (like name stamping, etc.) can no longer be purchased. The 2016-2017 year yearbooks are expected to be delivered at the start of the 2017-2018 school year.

Spring 2017 | 23

www.nwschools.org

El Club De Espanol The Spanish Club “El club de español” has been meeting twice a month during the winter months. The club activities are student inspired and offer a chance to practice Spanish, get to know other students in other grades, learn more about the Spanish culture outside of the regular classroom setting, and have fun! Club events this past winter have included a variety of activities including a holiday potluck and a “game day”. One day, students made “ojos de dios”, made of two crossed sticks (or twigs) woven with yarn. Ojos de Dios are commonly made by the Huichol Indians, who live in the Sierra Madre Mountains in Mexico. On a Saturday In December, club members Shelby Foor, Jaiden Alcock, and Señora Moulton served as bell ringers at one of the Salvation Army Red Kettles located in the Jackson Crossing.

Food is always a popular topic so during one meeting, students enjoyed a variety of cookies while taste testing fruit juices from Mexico including guava, mango, and coconut water. At a meeting in early February, students made fried plantains. Plantains are similar to bananas but have a higher starch content and are less sweet.

Thanks to Mrs. Rush for the use of a kitchen station in her room. During the second meeting in February, students tried their hand at drawing a fish in the style of Pablo Picasso while following along with a video tutorial on YouTube by Mr. Shoo Rayner, an illustrator and children’s book author. After seeing a tweet featuring the students’ drawings, Mr. Rayner responded to the tweet with “Excellent!”

If students are interested in learning more about joining the Club, please see Señora Moulton or Señora Carroll. The meetings are held after school in room 208, in Señora Moulton’s room. All students who have an interest in the Spanish language and culture are welcome to join.

The group usually meets twice a month during the school year. Parents and community members who have a connection with the Spanish language via heritage, a career, or travel, and would like to share your experience with NW students, please contact Señora Moulton at Rebecca.Moulton@nwschools.org. We welcome you into our classrooms. ¡Gracias!

News from Spanish Classes Students in Señora Moulton’s Spanish 2 classes enjoyed a visit from Mr. and Mrs. BrunDelRe from Lansing and Vilma Garcia from Antigua, Guatemala in the late fall. Diego and Santiago, Mrs. Garcia’s children also accompanied her. Mrs. Garcia shared information about the country of Guatemala with photographs and maps. Students were able to ask questions following the presentation. Mrs. BrunDelRe, a former teacher, developed an organization which started in her church seven years ago called “Educando Vidas” (Educating Lives). Vilma Garcia, who coordinates the program in Guatemala, comes to Michigan once a year. The program offers support to families in a rural community in Guatemala. Although public school is free in Guatemala, the program helps poor families with the additional expenses of books, school supplies, required uniforms, etc. Many years ago, the BrunDelRe family was a host family for the Healing the Children organization which provides access to medical care for children in need around the world. The family hosted Mrs. Garcia when she was a child and came to the United States for a critical medical procedure which was not available in Guatemala. Their families have kept in touch over the years and together are now making a difference in children’s lives in Guatemala.

24 | Spring 2017

NW seniors Marissa Mata and Jaiden Adler help Mrs. BrunDelRe display a hand-woven blanket made by Mayan women artisians.

The BrunDelRes, Señora Garcia and her sons with Señora Moulton after a successful presentation.

Northwest Community Schools

Spanish 4/5 class visits via Google Hangout with students from Spain

In early February, students from Señora Moulton’s HS Spanish 4/5 class were able to visit with Adrián Rodrigo Duerto and Elena Ramos via a video chat through the Google Hangout communication platform. Adrián and Elena are from Zaragoza which is the capital of northeastern Spain’s Aragon region. Gabe Arthur (Class of 2017) hosted Adrián via a Summer Hosting Program between his 8th and 9th grade year. They

became fast friends and they have continued to keep in contact. Adrián has returned to Michigan four times and Gabe has traveled to Spain twice.

Elena is a friend of Adrián whom Gabe met when he was in Spain. She and her family hosted Kendall Stephens (Class of 2017) for five weeks last summer and Elena also spent four weeks here in Jackson.

was interesting to see how their daily lives in Spain compare with ours in the United States”. Marissa Mata (Class of 2017) commented “it’s cool that we can use technology to learn new things and also connect with people on the other side of the world”. Gabe said “it was nice to catch up with Adrián and to introduce him to some of my classmates. I look forward to seeing him again!”

NW students asked Adrián and Elena a variety of questions including what are their favorite things-including foods, music, plus what they liked about being in the U.S. when they were here.

John McCartney (Class of 2017) observed that “it

HS Spanish 4/5 students on a “video chat” via Google Hangout

Art Department News Congratulations to the following students whose work was chosen to be exhibited at Baker College during the month of March:

Emily Sexton, Grade 11 Pencil Self-Portrait, “I have a dream”…

Nabaa Sabah, Grade 10 Pencil Perspective

Brittany Case, Grade 9 Mixed Media Montage

Hannah Friend, Grade 12 Pencil Self-Portrait, “Finding Yourself ”

Sam Palmeri, Grade 12 Mixed Media, Fantastic 4

Gabrielle Burman, Grade 9 Watercolor, “Nice cold lemonade here!”

The Jackson County Art Show will be taking place Monday April 24 - Monday May 8, 2017 at Jackson Crossing. Please come out and enjoy our magnificent Mountie talent!

Congratulations to Gabrielle Piotrowski who won the Scholastic Art Award for two of her drawings. This prestigious award, established in 1923, recognizes student achievement in the visual and literary arts.

Gabbi won the Silver Key Award for her colored pencil piece, “Highland Cow”. She received an Honorable Mention for another colored pencil piece, “Flowers in her hair”. Her work was published in a book of this year’s winners. The awards are sponsored by Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

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High School Sports

Northwest High School NORTHWEST HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLER; December/January Athletes of the Month

Loren Mason, Jr.

RECEIVES HIS 100TH CAREER WIN

The Northwest Athletic Department has partnered with Joel Christner and Christner Insurance Services with Farmers Insurance to begin an Athlete of the Month program. Each month one varsity male, one varsity female, one sub varsity male, and one sub varsity female athlete will receive awards sponsored by Christner Insurance Services. Congrats to our December/ January combined month winners: Seth Maloney (Hockey), Sydney Shafer (Basketball), Brandon Bostwick (Basketball) and Anya Hedrich (Basketball).

Varsity Male: Sport: Hockey - NW Player: Seth Maloney Position: Goalie - Stats during December/January: Played in 7 ½ games. 7 wins and O loses. 3 shutouts. Gave up only 11 goals in 7.5 games = Congrats to Northwest Wrestler; Loren Mason for 1.47 goals against average. Gave up only 11 goals on 140 shots = .921 save%. Seth played a big role getting his 100th Career Win! in defeating Lumen Christi 5-2 on January 21st to help retain the “Old Leather Skate” trophy in Loren had an amazing season to finish off his which he made 26 saves on 28 shots. Seth has senior year. He wrestled at the 145 lb weight applied for acceptance to West Point Military class placing 3rd at Districts qualifying him for Regionals where he placed 4th to advance him to Academy. the MHSAA State Tournament held at the Palace Varsity Female: Sport: Girls Basketball - Player: Sydney Shafer of Auburn Hills.

Position: Guard - Sydney is averaging 16 points, It is a huge honor to make it this far and we 5 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. Highlight CONGRATULATE Loren on his GREAT games include Harper Creek - 27 points, and season!!

Coldwater - 20 points. Sydney has taken on a leadership role for us this year, and has worked hard on her game. She has provided scoring for us, but also contributes in other areas. She is an integral part of our program’s success.

Sub Varsity Male: Sport: Boys Basketball Player: Brandon Bostwick Position: Guard - Brandon has averaged 12 points per game through 8 games for the boys Junior Varsity program prior to being moved to the varsity team and contributing big minutes, and a great ability to attack the basket.

26 | Spring 2017

Sub Varsity Female: Sport: Girls Basketball Player: Anya Hedrich Position: Center - Anya has a total of 113 rebounds and 186 points so far this season.

Averages 11. 6 points per game and 7 rebounds a game. She has had 4 double doubles this season against: Columbia Central with 13 pts and 11 rebounds, Jackson High with 12 pts and 11 rebounds, Marshall with 10 pts and 10 rebounds, Pennfield with 25 pts and 14 rebounds. Anya has proven herself as a huge asset to our team. She not only brings amazing stats, but a positive attitude and a motivation to the team that is indescribable.

Anya has so much drive and determination to be a better athlete. Her ability to listen to instruction and apply that to the court is truly amazing. Anya is such a joy to coach and I look forward to seeing her succeed not only on the basketball court, but in life as well.

Jackson United Hockey Team takes CAAC Conference Championship For the First Time!!

The Jackson United Hockey Team made up of players from Northwest, Jackson High, Western and Springport finished their season 20-4-1 to take the CAAC Championship for the first time!! Players representing Northwest were: Brad Campbell, Jacob Cook, Bryce Darrow, Jarid Fowle, Kaden Grimes, Dakota Hitt, Seth Maloney, Chris Martin, Cyle Risinger, Adam Sherman and Nie Weller. CONGRATS on a GREAT SEASON!!!

Northwest Community Schools

ALL-STATE WRESTLERS TANNER BEACH & REESE DARROW Northwest sent three wrestler to the Individual Wrestling State Finals. Senior Loren Mason, Junior Tanner Beach and Sophomore Reese Darrow all qualified for individual states.

Wrestling at 152, Tanner Beach

finished 4th in the state and 43-13 this season while wrestling in 3 different weight classes (152, 160, 171).

At the State meet, Beach lost his first match 8-7 but then won his next four matches to advance to the 3rd/4th place match. Beach lost a tough match 6-2 thus ending his season but finishing 4th in the State in Division 2 at l52 lbs and earning All State honors.

Wrestling at 112, Reese Darrow finished 7th in the State and 48-7 this season. Reese opened his State meet with a pin but unfortunately lost his next match.

Darrow then won his third match 4-2 but lost his fourth match putting him into the 7th/8th place final.

Darrow won that match 6-3 to finish his season in 7th place and earning All State Honors in Division 2 at 112 lbs.

Wrestling at 145, Loren Mason unfortunately lost his first two matches and did not place at States. He concluded his season with a 38-17 record.

CONGRATS to all three for advancing to the State Finals and a special CONGRATS to Beach and Darrow for earning All State Honors!

Alternative High School

March is Reading Month and as is our tradition, a few of our students were selected to go to NW Preschool and read to the children. Mrs. Jenkins, our secretary, spearheads the effort each year and helps choose our students that would be comfortable enough reading out loud. Mrs. Jenkins loves to read each year, and is always prepared with her favorite children’s books, the Little Critter series by Mercer Mayer with the accompanying stuffed animal “little critters.” This year, Dana Coohon, Savanna Gosnell, Quanah Ferguson, Haley Derby, and Dallas Werstein were a few of the alternative high school students who read to the three and four year olds.

The children sat quietly and were very attentive as they were being read to. When it was time for the group photo, the children lined up near the alternative high school students so that they could be near them. All of the students agreed that they would be happy to read again!

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www.nwschools.org

Alternative High School a certified phlebotomist. He has worked on the 3rd Floor-Clinical Decision Unit, Critical Care in the CUB Unit and Surgical ICU, and as part of the emergency staff that regularly floats all over the hospital. When I asked Ian how he keeps all Ian Fatchett Program, but didn’t really have a lot of luck with graduated from that...and besides, he wanted to be IN school, not those jobs straight, he told me that his job at the Northwest home. Someone recommended our program, and hospital posts their schedule three months ahead of time, and he logs between 24-48 hours/week Alternative in he said that he didn’t even know that we had an there. He does not carry his firefighter pager 2014. He spent alternative school, and was very nervous to come when working for the hospital or the ambulance, two years with and check us out; however, he says that within us, and is a the first few minutes of meeting with our previous and is currently working on a Paramedic course, paying for the year-long class completely out of shining example principal, Mr. Scholz, that “this was where he his own pocket. He says that in addition to being of the successful belonged”. He says that Mr. Scholz “really an EMT, being a paramedic will allow him to partnership listened to him, and leveled with him,” and told between our him that “if you are willing to put in the work, we administer drugs and medications to the people he responds to. alternative school can help you here”. He was sold! His first year and the Jackson was actually our last year in our old building, “the With all of these jobs, you would think he would Area Career trailer,” next to the high school, and his last year Center. We have students who attend morning was our first year in our new building (our current be too busy for fun, but Ian enjoys his down-time riding his motorcycle, a 2012 Yamaha R6 Sport, or afternoon shift at the Career Center, and location) in the NEC. He made the move with and doing some urban exploring while taking do the other half of the day with us. Ian was us, and says that he is so glad that he did! pictures of abandoned buildings across Michigan. a student in the Fire and EMS Program, and He also has a goal of being an “Air Nurse”, the since he graduated, has landed several jobs that Since graduation, Ian has held more than one RN on board the helicopter that is life-flighting showcase those skills that he acquired both there, job (at a time!), including working part-time for someone from the scene of an accident. He hopes and with us. He has a very clear goal of where the Jackson County Ambulance, where he logs he wants to be in five years, and has the guts and between 12-24 hours a week. He earned his EMT by the age of 26 he will have that degree as well. determination that will get him there.

Basic, and is certified at the state and national When I asked Ian about his final thoughts on level. He also works on-call for the Parma/ his education, his goals, his choices, he says he Ian came to our Alternative School after Sandstone Fire Department, and carries a pager is so glad that he chose to come to our school. experiencing a lot of frustration with another local with him to alert him of a fire. He loves driving He believes he would have eventually dropped district. When Ian was 9, he was diagnosed with the firetruck, and can do everything that you out, and probably wouldn’t have even gotten his Type 1 (Juvenile) diabetes, and a few times in his would expect of a firefighter...put out the fires, GED if it wasn’t for our school, our program. He childhood got very ill, to the point that he was enter the building, and even administer the first is very thankful we were here for him at a very in the ICU at U of M. He felt that his previous aid if needed at the scene. In addition, he works critical time in his life. I’m proud to say that Ian district really “dropped the ball” with the way at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospital where he has Fatchett is a true success story, and I can’t wait to he was treated because of his medical issues, and been employed for over a year, and he receives see what his future still holds! looked for some other options for his education. full benefits. He has been trained to do IV’s, He tried some at-home schooling with the WAY blood draws, catheters, and vitals….he is actually

Spotlight On...Former Northwest Alternative High School Grads!

Dental Care for All! Smiles on Wheels, a mobile dental organization that goes into schools and cleans children’s teeth, contacted our school about possibly coming in and doing their thing. We were ecstatic to learn that not only would they give a check-up and cleaning, they would also educate our students about oral health, and they were doing this not for a discounted rate….but absolutely for free! Sign us up please!

The first day they arrived, they set up shop in a classroom, and had a very informative display about everything that can go on in a person’s mouth, and how to avoid the pitfalls of bad oral hygiene. The hygienist went to work, a student at a time, cleaning teeth and sending the kids off with parting gifts of a toothbrush, floss, water bottles, and toothpaste. We had so many students continue to show an interest, that they made an appointment to come back another day. All in all, Smiles on Wheels serviced 17 of our students, over three different days, and sent those kids back to class with shiny, clean teeth, and hopefully a lot of wisdom about taking charge of their own oral health. Some students will be contacted later by the organization with a follow-up pertaining to specific things they may have found during the exam, and will be directed for further dental services at a much discounted rate. Thank you so much, Smiles On Wheels! We really appreciate you doing what you did for our kids!

28 | Spring 2017

Northwest Community Schools

Food Service News

FOOD SERVICE PAYMENT POLICY – NORTHWEST COMMUNITY SCHOOLS Effective 11-21-16 I. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to establish consistent meal account procedures throughout the district in the provision of meals to students and staff.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. It is the policy of Northwest Community Schools to offer and provide breakfast and lunch at school. The food service department strives to produce quality meals in an efficient and fiscally responsible manner.

B. Northwest Community Schools recognizes the parent/guardian’s responsibility to provide breakfast and lunch for their children.

Proper nutritional intake is essential for adequate learning to occur.

C. The food service department utilizes a computerized Point of Sale System (PS1000) requiring pre-payments. Students may purchase meals when funds have deposited into their personal account. Cash payments are always accepted and students selecting ala-carte options can use either cash or positive lunch account funds at the Middle School and High School.

D. Account balances must be positive.

The lunch account works similar to a checking account. When a meal or item is purchased, the amount is deducted from the family lunch account. School lunch account information may be accessed online by using the PS1000 parent portal found on the district website.

E. Families may apply for free/ reduced meals anytime during the school year.

Applications are provided to all families in the district prior to the start of the school year.

In addition, applications are available at each building, kitchen, POS as well as the district central office and online at the district website: www.nwschools.org.

F. Charging Policy – If a student forgets his/her lunch money or is unable to pay, they

will be able to charge the lunch to their account under the following circumstances. A child may only charge three meals. Full payment is expected on the next day. If payment is not received after charging three meals, your child will no longer be able to receive a hot lunch.

After charging three hot lunches, the student will be offered an alternate meal of two cheese sticks, graham crackers, fruit and milk. A $.60 charge will be added to the child’s account. After receiving the alternate meal for five days in a row, the building principal will be notified for further investigation and resolution.

III. PROCEDURES FOR NOTIFYING FAMILY OF ACCOUNT STATUS

Family balances are available on the Parent Portal and may be accessed through the district’s website. Statements may be requested from the food service director via email or telephone.

A. The food service program is a prepayment program. Families are expected to have a positive balance in the food service account at the beginning of the year, and during the course of the entire school year.

B. The parent/guardian will be notified via letter from the food service office when the individual student lunch account reaches a negative balance. This notification is sent to the family address of the account on file via US Mail.

C. All students in grades 3-12 will be notified in the lunch line when their account has reached a negative balance by the cashier at the POS. K-2 students will be notified by their teacher.

D. Ala carte items may be purchased by cash at the POS but cannot be purchased using the lunch account if the account is negative.

E. Statements are also mailed at the beginning of each week to families with a negative balance in the individual student lunch account.

F. Individual lunch account privileges within families with negative account balances of $25.00 or more may, at the discretion of food

service leadership and school administration, be deactivated or suspended to prevent further unpaid purchases from occurring. Notification of this action will be sent by letter to the family address on file.

G. Families who have been notified of negative balances, and who have not made payment arrangements or paid in full after 30 days of initial notice, will be turned over to a collection agency designated by the district.

H. Assistance from Northwest Community School’s staff may be requested by a school representative for possible neglect when the above procedures are unsuccessful.

IV. STAFF MEALS

A. Staff meals may be purchased at a price determined by the food service department. There shall be no complimentary staff meals. To be eligible for the staff meal price, portions for the individual items may not exceed those given to high school aged students.

B. Staff showing a negative balance of $25.00 or more in their account will have their account deactivated until payment is made in full.

Northwest Community Schools entered into the K105.3 Chili Cook-Off for the first year ever and took 1st place in the school division!!!! Go Mounties!

Spring 2017 | 29

www.nwschools.org

Pink pasta promotes breast cancer awareness at middle school The Jackson Citizen Patriot October 13, 2016

By Emily Mesner | emesner@mlive.com JACKSON, MI - More than 400 students waited eagerly outside the cafeteria, peeking their heads around the corner in hopes of getting a glimpse of the pink-colored food that would soon fill their lunch trays.

Northwest’s Kidder Middle School hosted Pink Day on Tuesday, Oct. 13, in support of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The day featured a pink-themed lunch for students and faculty members.

The menu included sweet and sour or Thai chili chicken on pink rice, roasted red skin potatoes, pink pasta, and pink-fruited Jello.

Some students were hesitant to try the pink food, while others couldn’t make up their mind as to which meal they wanted to try.

Food Service Director Liz Evans says she and her staff worked all morning to prepare the lunches, having spent nearly a week planning for the day.

“The aim of the pink lunch is to bring breast cancer awareness to the kids in a fun-themed and interesting way,” Evans said.

“The kids, the smiles on their face, the excitement they get at seeing everything decorated...to educate them on Pink Day and what we’re doing for Pink Day, it gets them to pay attention to the whole cause of it,” Evans said.

This program has been featured in the high school before, but this is the first year it came to the middle school.

Food Service Director Liz Evans serves pinkcolored rice to students at Northwest’s Kidder Middle School for Pink Day in support of breast cancer awareness on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016.

(Emily Mesner | Mlive.com)

30 | Spring 2017

We featured a “Harvest of the Month” at all our cafeterias showcasing seasonal fruits and vegetables.

We served roasted squash, edamame and brussel sprouts for our students to try. The fresh fruits and vegetable bars were a hit in all buildings as well. Every day in our schools, students have a choice of two fruits and three vegetables--including watermelon, strawberries, broccoli, carrots and more.

We have lots of new and healthy choices for students and staff! Please call my office if you have any questions. My phone number is 517-817-4691 or you can always email me at Liz.Evans@ nwschools.org.

Liz Evans F.S.D.

Northwest Community Schools

Northwest Coordinated School Health 8th Annual 5K & Kids Fun Run Non-Competitive Community Fitness Run/Walk 8:15am - 8:45am Registration (High School Track) 9:00am Kids Fun Run 9:15am 5K Run/Walk For more information visit www.nwschools.org

Walk/Run - $6 • Kids Fun Run $3 Free Inflatable for Kids & Face Painting Free Healthy Snacks Free Pictures with the Mountie Spring 2017 | 31

Cut here and mail to: Northwest Community Schools c/o Pat Furnival • 6900 Rives Junction Road • Jackson, MI 49201

www.nwschools.org

32 | Spring 2017