School Matters Winter 2016

School Matters

WINTER 2016

PHS INTERACT COLLECTS

WATER FOR FLINT

PLAINWELL FLINT

T

he whole city of Plainwell, Michigan pitched in during the month of January and donated to the PHS Interact Club’s Water for Flint initiative which brought in over 260 cases and 100 gallons of bottled water to help the people of Flint build a healthy water supply for years to come.

PLAINWELL

GILMORE FAMILY

ROUNDUP

Featuring PCS Student Art

With Pianist Terrence Wilson

Wednesday, April 13 1-7 pm Starr Elementary

Friday, March 11 • 5 to 9 pm Ransom District Library & Design Street

Thursday, March 24 • 7:30 pm Performing Arts Center FREE Admission

KINDERGARTEN

ART HOP

CONCERT

SUPERINTENDENT’S VIEWPOINT

by Susan Wakefield, Superintendent

Our Mission

I

think Plainwell has the best mission statement a school district can have: “Preparing students for success through academic excellence and strength of character.” It captures perfectly what we strive to do every day. I’m not sure whom to credit with the statement; it was here before I came to Plainwell 14 years ago. Whoever thought of it Doing certainly understands what we are all about.

Doing your best work, being honest, and helping others are standards in every classroom in this district.

Sometimes the strength of our students’ character is seen beyond our school campus.

Students are involved in our Plainwell Christmas Project, helping to stock the your pantry at Christian Neighbors, spending time with sebest work, nior citizens, holding penny wars for a worthy cause, and being honest, countless community service hours. Most recently, and helping our high school Interact students sponsored a water others are drive to help the citizens of Flint.

While the “academic excellence” often gets the most print, we also work diligently to develop strong character in our kids. We deliberately teach character development through several means includstandards in ing Quantum Learning, Quiet Heroes, PALS, Capturing Developing strong every classroom character in all of our Kids Hearts, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Take a Stand, Lend students benefits everyin this district. a Hand. Most importantly, we one. They are the next teach it by how we conduct generation and they will ourselves because nothing be the decision-makers speaks louder than our own actions. of the future. We have a tag line that compliments our mission statement, “ToIf we pay attention, we can see the reday’s Learners, Tomorrow’s Leaders.” I for sults of our efforts every day. We see it one want all of our leaders well-educated when kids are empathetic and compaswith outstanding character. We will consionate, when they point out our hytinue to follow our mission statement and pocrisy (a favorite pastime of teenagappreciate any and all support you can give ers), and when they separate themselves in this endeavor! n from peers who are making poor choices.

February 18 1/2 Day - All Students

February 19 NO SCHOOL

March 11 1/2 Day - All Students End of 2nd Trimester

April 1 NO SCHOOL

April 4-8 SPRING BREAK

May 30 NO SCHOOL

June 10 1/2 Day - All Students LAST DAY OF SCHOOL End of 3rd Trimester

STAY IN TOUCH WITH PCS! Facebook “f ” Logo

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OUR CHANNEL: plainwellcommschools

FOCUS ON CURRICULUM

by Bob Van Dis, Director of Curriculum

Empowering and Using Teacher Expertise

I

recently read an article called Empowering Great Teachers by Dr. Bruce Alberts, chair of Biochemistry and Biophysics for Science and Education at UCSF. His article calls for a change from the top down solutions that policy makers have prescribed to improve schools for years. In particular, he sites the use of tests for high stakes accountability for schools and the use of those tests to evaluate, reward, or remove teachers, principals, and (gulp) curriculum directors. He says that a better way to improve schools is to empower great teachers. The article says, “experienced, effective teachers are a vastly underutilized resource in education systems... But such teachers are rarely used appropriately.”

As a local school district, we are bound by law to implement the top down systems of accountability of which Alberts speaks. However, I truly believe that Plainwell has done this in as fair and transparent a way as we possibly can. But how do we do what Alberts says is the “better way to improve?” How do we use our “experienced effective teachers” as a resource for the improvement of all?

In the past decade, we have employed many of our highly effective Plainwell teachers to provide training, coaching, and support to our staff towards improving all of our skills in teaching students. I am proud that this district does not need to spend its staff development money to bring in so called “experts” from far away. We have the expertise we need right here. Below are just a few examples: Quantum Learning. In the past three years, all veteran staff have been trained in the Quantum Learning System where they learn to create an engaging, focused, cognitively

rich classroom built on a sense of safety, support, and belonging; and then how to design and deliver dynamic lessons that increase student learning. This multi-day, multi-year training is provided by a Plainwell teacher.

Explicit Instruction. Over half the staff, and all 2nd year teachers have participated in multiple day and multi-year workshops on how to design and deliver lessons that are systematic, direct, engaging, and success oriented – a method that research shows promotes increased achievement for all students.

This training is provided by two Plainwell teachers.

Differentiated Instruction. A few years ago, we had several cohorts of teachers attend workshops and planning sessions on how to meet the needs of all learners in their classroom from the highest achievers to those who need the most support. These workshops were provided by a Plainwell teacher.

Writing. Several years ago, we focused on improving writing instruction and using our assessments of student writing in grade level groups to identify strengths, areas to grow, and to discuss improvements. That work was facilitated by a Plainwell teacher.

Elementary Reading. New teachers are provided with in-depth training, support, and materials to be successful at teaching the core reading program. This work is provided by a Plainwell teacher.

Mathematics Instruction. For the past two years we have been working to improve secondary mathematics instruction, particularly in making the transition from middle

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to high school. Last year, Plainwell High School teachers visited middle school classrooms and vice versa to watch each other teach – learning from each other rather than an outside presenter. This year, four 8th and 9th grade math teachers have been planning lessons together and watching each other teach them; following up with feedback and suggestions for making these lessons better.

New Teacher Training. All teachers in their first five years receive in-depth training in the Essentials of Effective Teaching with multiple classroom visits, data collecting, conversation, and goal setting. This work is done by a retired veteran Plainwell teacher.

Peer Visits. After the Essentials of Effective Teaching and Explicit Instruction workshops, the participants visit the classrooms of multiple Plainwell teachers who previously had this training and who use these techniques successfully to increase student learning. Participants are not only taught

by Plainwell teachers, they then visit experienced Plainwell teachers to see what these techniques look like with real students in a real classroom.

So back to Alberts’ article. Yes, there are many things Alberts laments that are simply out of a local school district’s control: high stakes testing, educator evaluation requirements, and mandated statewide curriculum to name three. But, in his suggestion to use experienced, expert teachers to foster improvement for all, I would argue that Plainwell embraces this concept wholeheartedly – using the experts among us and growing our teacher leaders. n

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DISTRICT NEWS PCS Seeks Outstanding People for Education Nominees

D

o you know someone who has made a positive impact upon education in Plainwell?

A fine way to recognize this accomplishment is by placing his or her name in nomination for the Outstanding People for Education award.

Up to three people from each local school district will be presented with the award by the Allegan County School Boards Association (ACSBA) at its annual banquet in June.

The ACSBA began its Outstanding People award seven years ago and has honored over 150 recipients who are selected by local district committees. Examples of those who may be nominated are: teachers and classroom aides; secretaries, bus drivers, custodians and other school support staff; administrators and board of education members; social workers, therapists and consultants; volunteers; and community members who support education.

The award criteria is wide and includes: providing support for a service or event that impacts education, developing a unique classroom program, demonstrating sensitivity to the needs of individual students, exhibiting an attitude that promotes a positive working and learning environment, or playing a leadership role in education.

Students, parents, school employees and community members are invited to submit award nominations on forms which are available in the administration office, school offices and also on the website (www.plainwellschools.org). Nominations are due April 1 and should be returned to Bonnie Pfingst, Administration Office, 600 School Nominations are Drive, Plainwell, MI 49080 or email to bpfingst@plainwellschools.org. due Ap

ril 1!

PLAINWELL COMMUNITY SCHOOLS’

kindergarten round up for children who will be 5 years old by September 1, 2016

Wednesday, April 13

Plainwell Community Schools &

1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Starr Elementary 601 SCHOOL DRIVE • PLAINWELL

Open House Format • Drop-in Anytime!

Kindergarten at Plainwell Community Schools is all-day, every-day.

Children from any district are welcome to enroll.

Can’t attend? Please call any one of the schools below for an enrollment packet.

COOPER ELEMENTARY

GILKEY ELEMENTARY

STARR ELEMENTARY

7559 N. 14th Street Kalamazoo, MI 49009 (269) 349-2674

707 S. Woodhams Street Plainwell, MI 49080 (269) 685-2424

601 School Drive Plainwell, MI 49080 (269) 685-5835

F R I D AY, M A R C H 1 1 • 5 T O 9 P. M .

Don’t miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to view art, and especially your students’ art, at exclusive venues located throughout Plainwell!

DESIGN STREET

RANSOM LIBRARY

High school & middle school student art is displayed at Design Street. You may visit Design Street during any regular class time (check www.designstreetplainwell.com for class times as they can change) as well as Mondays and Thursdays from 1:45 to 5 p.m. Design Street will host special hours on Friday, March 11 (Art Hop Night) from 5 to 9 p.m.

Elementary school student art is displayed at Ransom Library.

You may visit the library anytime during regular hours as well as Friday, March 11 (Art Hop Night) from 5 to 9 p.m.

ART

HOP

Questions? Feel free to contact your child’s art teacher, Design Street at 615-0884 or Ransom Library at 685-8024.

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SCHOOL NEWS 50 POSITIVE THINGS to Say to Your Child

Connect with local fathers & discover ways to strengthen your family with special guest speakers, Brian Huberty and Bob Farris. Attend one or both of these FREE parenting sessions at Starr Elementary.

Tuesday, March 1st, 6:30-7:30 pm

Tuesday, March 8th, 6:30-7:30 pm

This session will concentrate on ways to become a positive role model in the home and community with Brian Huberty - Plainwell Community School educator, football & baseball coach, and father of three. First three dads through the door will receive a free copy of Dad’s Playbook: Wisdom for Fathers from the Greatest Coaches of All Time by Tom Limber.

This session will focus on effective disciplining within the home to achieve positive relationships between parent and child with Bob Farris, Plainwell Community School educator, middle school assistant principal, and father of five. The first three dads through the door will receive a free copy of Parenting with Love and Logic by Foster Cline & Jim Fay.

– DEADLINE EXTENDED PLAINWELL COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

OUTSTANDING

ALUMNI AWARD

Do you know someone who attended Plainwell Schools and has an interesting and inspiring story to share?

Tell us who they are!

P

lainwell Community Schools’ is searching for the best, brightest PCS graduates who have successful lives, career paths, and inspiring stories to tell. Success comes in many different forms. We are not just looking for the rich and the famous, but for those quieter successes who make a difference in other’s lives. We would like to honor a graduate who has accomplished great things, overcome a hurdle, become a local hero, succeeded in business, mentored children, started their own company, saved a life, built a park, or cleaned up a river. PCS’ Outstanding Alumni Award will be presented during the 2016 PHS Graduation Ceremony on May 26, 2016. Nominations are due by March 1, 2016 to be considered for this year.

Nominees not selected this year will stay on file for future consideration. Nominees must be graduates of Plainwell Community Schools, prior to 2006. The individual selected as PCS’ Outstanding Alumnus will be featured in School Matters, our district’s newsletter, as well as on our website, social media, the district annual report and may appear in local media.

VISIT WWW.PLAINWELLSCHOOLS.ORG/OUR_ALUMNI FOR MORE INFO & TO DOWNLOAD A NOMINATION FORM W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G

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I’m grateful for you.

You make me proud.

Your words are meaningful.

You have great ideas.

I love being your parent.

You don’t have to be perfect.

Your opinions matter.

You are important.

You are loved.

I believe you.

I believe in you.

I love you.

You are valuable.

You can say no.

You can say yes.

I know you did your best.

You were right.

I accept who you are.

We can try your way.

You are helpful.

You are worth it.

You make me happy.

I love your creativity.

Being around you is fun.

I can’t wait to hear about it.

Don’t be afraid to be you.

You’re making a difference.

I could never stop loving you.

You are interesting.

I love seeing the world your way.

It’s good to be curious.

I love the way you tell stories.

What you did was awesome.

I admire you.

That’s a great question.

I trust you.

That was a really good choice.

You make my heart full.

You make me better.

You are a good boy/girl.

Thank you for being you.

I’m so glad you’re here.

You look great.

I understand you.

You are very good at that!

That was really brave.

I forgive you.

I appreciate you.

We all make mistakes.

You are enough.

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SCHOOL NEWS

PMS Geography Bee Winners

H

enry Miller, a PMS 6th grader, won the schoolwide competition of the National Geographic Bee on Tuesday, January 19 and a chance at a $50,000 college scholarship! The school bee, at which students answer questions on geography, was the first round in the 28th Annual National Geographic Bee. Brad Austin, an 8th grader was the 2nd place winner and Breanna Weaver, a 7th grader, was the 3rd place winner.

Thousands of schools across the United States and in five territories are participating in the 2016 Geography Bee. School champions, including Henry, will take a written test. The top 100 scorers in each state will then be eligible to compete in their state bee on April 1, 2016. n

PMS Spanish student Dakota Hahn (left) shares her story with Tresden Mills and Mason Ellis.

STUDENT ARTIST of the Month PMS Spanish student Brenden Lewis (right) reads to Mrs. Williams and Starr student, Blake Shultz.

Spanish Class Reads to Kindergarten Buddies La Clase de Español leen con Nuestros Amigos de Kindergarten

O

ver the past few weeks, Plainwell Middle School Spanish students in Mrs. Williams’ and Mrs. Kidder’s classes have been writing children’s books in Spanish to demonstrate their ability and understanding of the Spanish curriculum they’ve covered. After working on these books for a few class periods, the students traveled to Starr Elementary to share them with students in Mrs. Wright’s and Mrs. Mudget’s Kindergarten classes. The younger students had a lot of fun listening to the older students read their stories en Español and then again in English. n

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ANNA SCHIERBEEK 2ND GRADE Cooper Elementary

M U S I C D E P T. N E W S THE GILMORE VISITS PLAINWELL World-Class Pianist Terrence Wilson to Play the Performing Arts Center

F

or the first time ever, the Gilmore International Keyboard Festival is coming to Plainwell Performing Arts Center - and bringing internationally renowned artist Terrence Wilson to perform on our community’s local stage. On Thursday. March 24, beginning at 7:30 p.m. you will experience a 50-minute concert of world class piano music accompanied by engaging visuals. Admission is always free, and the entire family is invited.

Pianist Terrence Wilson will guide you through the world of dance and movement through the sounds of the grand piano. The repertoire is still in development, but selections will be pulled from Stravinsky’s Petrushka, Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, Bernstein’s West Side Story, and other piano works from ballets or works influenced by dance.

Mr. Wilson has established a reputation as one of today’s most gifted instrumentalists. He has appeared as soloist with many prestigious ensembles, including the symphony orchestras of Atlanta, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Indianapolis, Washington, D.C. (National), San Francisco, St. Louis, and New Jersey, as well as with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and the orchestras of Cleveland, Minnesota, and Philadelphia. Abroad, he has performed with the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra, the Malaysian Philharmonic, the Minas-Gerais State Symphony Orchestra, in Brazil, and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, to name a few.

Mr. Wilson is also active as a recitalist as well as an active chamber musician. Mr. Wilson is a regular member of the Ritz Chamber Players.

Terrence Wilson has also appeared at the Mann Music Center, Blossom Festival, Tanglewood and Wolf Trap in recitals, concerti, and chamber music. In the summer of 2015, Mr. Wilson performed for an audience of 12,000 at the Independence Day concert of the Grant Park Music Festival, in Chicago, which was broadcast live on the radio from the Pritzker Pavillion at Millenium Park. He also appeared with the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Mann Music Center and with the Colorado Music Festival Orchestra in Boulder, CO. Terrence Wilson has received numerous awards and prizes, including the SONY ES Award for Musical Excellence, Avery Fisher Career Grant, and the Juilliard Petschek Award. He has also been featured on several radio and television broadcasts, including NPR’s Performance Today, WQXR in New York, and programs on the BRAVO Network, Arts & Entertainment Network and public television. In 2010, Wilson was nominated for a Grammy Award for his recording of Michael Daugherty’s Deus ex Machina for Piano and Orchestra with the Nashville Symphony, conducted by Giancarlo Guerrero. Terrence Wilson is a graduate of the Juilliard School, where he studied with Yoheved Kaplinsky. He has also enjoyed the mentorship of Romanian pianist Zita Zohar. A native of the Bronx, New York, he resides in Montclair, New Jersey. n

FRIDAY, MARCH 18 & SATURDAY, MARCH 19 • 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, MARCH 20 • 2 p.m.

T

he Wizard of Oz, based on the 1939 film adapted by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Jeremy Sams and Tim Rice will be presented by the Plainwell High School Music Department on Friday, March 18 and Saturday, March 19 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 20 at 2 p.m. at the Plainwell Performing Arts Center.

Catherine Lemus will star as Dorothy, Morgan Smith as the Wicked Witch of the West, Abby Ernst as Glinda, Luke Woltanski as Scarecrow, Tyler Walker as Tinman, and Casey McVoy as Cowardly Lion.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT WWW.PHSWIZARDOFOZ.BPT.ME

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G I LMO RE T HE

FAMILY CONCERT

F EATURING G ILMORE P IANIST T ERRENCE W ILSON

T HURSDAY, M ARCH 2 4 • 7 : 3 0 P. M. P LAINWELL P ERFORMING A RTS C ENTER

COMMUNITY WELCOME • FREE ADMISSION

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E A R LY C H I L D H O O D E D U C AT I O N

a Spring

Open House Wednesday, February 24 6 - 7 p.m.

Plainwell Corners Preschool & Daycare: Prepares your child for success!

A preschool offering a developmentally appropriate and fun curriculum (including Handwriting Without Tears) designed for toilet-trained children who are 3 or 4-years old. Open Monday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Early Childhood Education Center, 307 E. Plainwell Street (next to Hicks Gym) for a $150 weekly rate or $40 daily rate (minimum 3 days a week).

Summer Camp & Fall 2016 Registration Open Now! SAFE: Before & after school care for your child!

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

Home of the Mini-Trojans!

Check us out at www.plainwellschools.org > Services > Preschool & Daycare or call 269.685.3103 for more information. We qualify for childcare tax credits, accept DHS payments & are approved for Flex reimbursement.

trojans Little

PLAINWELL

COMM. SCHOOLS

Plainwell’s Great Parents, Great Start program offers FREE monthly literacy-based playgroups for children (ages birth to five) at the Discovery Center at Starr Elementary from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. every third Tuesday of the month. Each playgroup consists of activities, which promote fine and gross motor skills, academic learning, and social skills.

FREE books and snacks will be provided at each playgroup.

Rainbow Fish • Tuesday, February 16 • 10:00 am Listen to the Rainbow Fish, discuss what makes a good friend, manipulate playdough speckled fish and design your own tissue paper fish to take home.

Dr. Seuss Month • Tuesday, March 15 • 10:00 am Listen to One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish, watch a water experiment, make fishy hand prints and eat fish in Jell-o.

Fly A Kite • Tuesday, April 19 • 10:00 am Listen to A Kite Day (Bear and Mole) and make your own animal paper kits to take home.

Nature Hunt • Tuesday, May 17 • 10:00 am Join us for a nature hunt at Gilkey Elementary School’s Environmental Lab, 707 S Woodhams St. Meet in the back of Gilkey, along the river, and find different shapes, colors, and textures within nature. Rain location will be at Starr Elementary.

NEW! Come & Play!! Parents and Little Trojans (ages birth to five) can join us at the Discovery Center at Starr Elementary on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday afternoons from 3 to 3:30 p.m. for Open Play! Check out the new reading, writing, gross motor, art, tinker, construction, science and kitchen centers. Please sign in at the front office upon arrival.

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AT H L E T I C N E W S

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ATHLETIC RECRUITING SPEAKER TO VISIT PLAINWELL

You are cordially invited to

The Realities of College Athletic Recruiting

P

lainwell Community Schools, in partnership with Otsego Public Schools and Allegan Public Schools and the Boosters, are bringing nationally recognized speaker, Jack Renkens, to the Plainwell Performing Arts Center. Renkens, a former college coach and recruiting expert will present “The True Facts about College Athletic Recruiting” on Monday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m.

When it comes to college athletic recruiting, everyone wants to give advice and everyone believes they know all the answers. This program will give the answers in a straightforward, no nonsense, entertaining, 50-minute presentation. Renkens has helped thousands of families around the country head down the right path of finding scholarships - and it’s often down a path they didn’t know existed. If your son or daughter truly has aspirations to play at the next level, this is a “can’t miss” event. Reservations about attending? Check out www. recruitingrealities.com for more information. n

B O A R D O F E D U C AT I O N N E W S

The Plainwell Community Schools’ Board of Education for 2016 include Trustees (top row, from left) Thom Berlin, Shannon Zabaldo and John Artz. Officers (seated, from left) Julli Bennett, Treasurer; Christine VanDenBerg, Secretary; Amy Blades, President; and Kim Shafer, Vice President W W W. P L A I N W E L L S C H O O L S . O R G

Plainwell

Education Foundation’s – 5th Annual –

BLUE & WHITE

NIGHT

Saturday, March 5 6:00 p.m. @ the OLD MILL Tickets are $100 and include: dinner for two, drink tickets, and a ticket into the reverse raffle. Reverse raffle cash prizes: top prize of $1,000, 2 - $500 prizes and 2 - $250 prizes. To purchase your tickets for the evening. Please send payment to the Plainwell Education Foundation, PO Box 463, Plainwell, Michigan, 49080.

The mission of the Plainwell Education Foundation (PEF) is to enhance excellence in education in Plainwell Community Schools. The Foundation is intended to provide financial assistance to projects or investment in students or teachers that are characterized as motivational, character-building, improving skills or in general terms tending to enhance the Plainwell Community Schools and without which assistance the activity would not occur.

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

PCS POOL SCHEDULE SPRING ‘16

A Note from the Recreation Director

I

hope this newsletter finds everyone enjoying our unusually mild winter.

We have several months until we can welcome spring but regardless of what our Michigan winter offers up, you can be sure our gyms are filled with kids enjoying the many activities that our community offers.

Swim Lessons Session I – Weekday Evenings Dates & times to be determined. www.plainwellschools.org/communityeducation/community-pool/ Session II – Weekday Evenings Dates & times to be determined. www.plainwellschools.org/communityeducation/community-pool/ Cost: $50 Register the first day of class.

Registration forms can be found online at www.plainwellschools.org _____________________

Pool Passes

for Lap/Open Swim Only

Pool passes are available for purchase at the pool.

40 Visits • $60 20 Visits • $32 10 Visits • $18 _____________________

Open Swim

Open swim is for all ages.

New time begins March 4!

Friday and Saturday Nights • 7-8:30 p.m. $3 per person, $5 per family _____________________

Lap Swim

High school students & adults only.

$3 per person or pass

Morning Lap

We wrapped up our Junior Spikers Volleyball and Little Kickers Soccer and now turn our attention to the basketball court. Hoopsters Basketball has begun and our league, which we combine with Otsego and Martin, has 50 teams this season with games being played every Saturday and practices throughout the week. Many thanks to the coaches, assistants, players, and families who are involved with our Hoopsters Program.

Varsity Girls Basketball Coach, Tim Rieman and his staff and players will again offer the Basketball Skills Camp for students in grades K - 6. Information for the camp can be found in this newsletter and is available in the school offices.

A BIG THANK YOU to the Plainwell Education Foundation who, through their mini-grant offering, has funded the purchase of summer youth ball equipment. We will be using the funds from the grant to purchase new softball and baseball batting helmets. Thank You Plainwell Education Foundation!

We are always interested in new ideas for programs and appreciate your feedback. If you have suggestions, please contact me. I welcome the opportunity to talk with you.

– Bob Farris Recreation Director

Monday, Wednesday, Friday • 6-7:00 a.m.

Noon Lap Monday-Friday • 12 -1:00 p.m.

Evening Lap Tuesday & Wednesday • 7-8:00 p.m. _____________________

Book a Pool Party

For any group or organization

1-30 people • $40/hour 31-50 people • $50/hour Lobby • $25/hour (Tables/chairs included) Call 685-2425 to reserve.

Contact Andrea Murphy at 685-2425 or amurphy@plainwellschools.org for more information.

ion & Recreation

munity Educat

Plainwell Com

Plainwell Community Education & Recreation

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE NOW!

A Gift for Program From Date E • PLAINW N STREET 422 ACOR

IGA LL, MICH

531 N • 685-9

Call the Community Ed. Office at 685-9531

ion & Recreation

munity Educat

Plainwell Com

A Gift for Program From Date E • PLAINW N STREET 422 ACOR

IGA LL, MICH

531 N • 685-9

ion & Recreation

REGISTER ONLINE @PLAINWELLSCHOOLS.ORG munity Educat

Plainwell Com

A Gift for

Visit www.plainwellschools.org. Scroll to the bottom of the Home Page and click on the blue & green RevTrak box. Click on the Community Ed & Recreation box. Click on desired activity. If you are unable to register online, call (269) 685-9531 or stop by our office at 422 Acorn Street (in the Industrial Park) for assistance. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Program From Date

E • PLAINW N STREET 422 ACOR

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IGA LL, MICH

531 N • 685-9

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

spring youth recreation BASKETBALL SKILLS CAMP Grades K - 6

This program is open to students, K-6th grade. Each Saturday, the same pool of players will be divided up differently. Phone call reminders will not be made.

Please attend the practice on March 5th at the assigned time for your grade level.

Dates: Saturdays • March 5 - 26, 2016 Time: 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. - K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. - 5th & 6th Location: Starr Elementary Gym Cost: $42 Instructors: Coach Rieman, staff & PHS players You must pre-register. No sign ups at camp.

Registration deadline is Tuesday, February 23, 2016.

BOATING SAFETY

spring adult & family recreation TAE KWON DO - Ages 7 to 107 for Beginners & Advanced Students

Tae Kwon Do is a 200 year old martial art and it is the national sport of Korea. It is a dynamic form of self-defense and an excellent means of physical fitness for men, women and children of all ages. This form of martial art includes physical techniques, mental discipline and a deep philosophy. Improve coordination, gain strength, and increase your flexibility while learning self-defense techniques from an ancient Korean martial art form. Tae Kwon Do is appropriate for kids and adults of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels. Come by yourself, with a friend, or bring the whole family for fun and fitness. Class is open to all - age 7 and older.

Dates: Mondays • March 28 - June 13, 2016 Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

NOTE: No Class April 4th or May 30th Location: Plainwell Middle School Cafeteria Instructor: Huong Tran Cost: $42 individual, $67 family All registrations are done online or you can stop by the Community Ed office. No signups at class. Registration deadline is Tuesday, March 15, 2016.

Ages 12 & Up

INDOOR WALKING

You may have heard that you need a Michigan boat license to operate your boat, but what you really need is the Michigan Boating Safety Certificate. You can get this certificate by taking this safety course. We ask that participants bring a pencil and a sack lunch. All course materials are provided and there is no charge to attend this course.

Date: Saturday, April 16, 2016 Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Location: Plainwell Middle School Cafeteria Cost: FREE Instructor: Sgt. Todd Wagner You must pre-register. No sign ups the day of class.

Registration deadline is Tuesday, March 29, 2016.

If the Plainwell Community Schools are closed for any reason, this program will be cancelled that day. Class will be running on time if the school system has a 2-hr delay. Runs through Friday, May 29, 2015.

Location: Hicks Gym, 311 E. Plainwell St. Cost: FREE FAMILY TIME ADULTS ONLY Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays Dates: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays Time: 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Time: 10 to 10:45 a.m.

INTRO TO COMPETITIVE CHEER & STUNTS Grades 6 - 8

This is a short introduction to the foundations of competitive cheer and stunting. Participants will practice proper hand placement, spotting techniques, and overall safety. The class will culminate with a short routine presentation. All participants will receive a “Bad to the Bow” Plainwell Stunt Clinic tshirt.

Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays • April 12 - 28, 2016 Time: 2:45 to 4:30 p.m.

Location: PMS Cafeteria Cost: $35/incl. tshirt Instructors: Sarah Johnson & Kayla Platt You must pre-register. No sign ups at camp.

Registration deadline is Tuesday, March 22, 2016.

THEATRE for BEGINNERS 9 - 13 Years

In this two-day workshop for young theatre enthusiasts, you will learn proper theatre terminology, answer “what is theatre?,” play theatre games and learn how to audition for acting roles.

Dates: Saturdays • April 23 & 30, 2016 Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Location: PHS Old Auditorium Cost: $42 Instructor: Kris Allemang-Stahl You must pre-register. No sign ups the day of class.

Registration deadline is Tuesday, April 12, 2016.

LIVE WELL PLAINWELL

Now that it’s warming up outside, grab your boots, your child or grandchild and hit the nature trails at Gilkey Elementary! Make a game out of how many different signs of spring you notice. If it’s a really nice day, pack a snack and eat it by the river.

spring seniors in action GOLDEN AGE PASSES If you are 62 years of age or older, you are eligible for a Golden Age Pass.

This pass entitles you to FREE admission to any home Wolverine Conference athletic event or lap swimming at the PCS pool, located at the middle school. To obtain your card, please stop by the Community Ed office at 422 Acorn St. between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday -Thursday or the Athletic Office in the high school. Take advantage of this opportunity and support our athletes!

EUCHRE, SINGLE or DOUBLES

Day: Tuesdays Time: 6:45 p.m.

Location: Plainwell Community Center, 798 Bridge St.

SENIOR FITNESS CLASS

Days: Wednesdays & Fridays Time: 9 - 10 a.m.

Location: Hicks Gym, 311 Plainwell St. Instructor: Lisa Bredahl Cost: $36 for 6 weeks or $3/drop-in

SPRING FLING

Join us for our annual Hawaiian-themed Spring Fling! This FREE event is one you won’t want to miss with a delicious breakfast provided by Plainwell Community Schools. Join us in welcoming back the snowbirds! Please RSVP to Kathy at 685-9531 by March 30, 2016.

Date & Time: Thursday, April 21 at 8:00 a.m.

Location: Gilkey Elementary Media Center, 707 S. Woodhams St.

COMMUNITY ED OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Kathy Elliott, Community Ed & Seniors in Action Coordinator............................... 685-9531 Bob Farris, Recreation Director........................................................................... 685-2423 Andrea Murphy, Pool Director.............................................................................. 685-2425 Tammy Glupker, Director..................................................................................... 685-1573

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

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Board of Education

Amy Blades.......................................................................... President Kim Shafer.................................................................... Vice President Christine VanDenBerg.......................................................... Secretary Julli Bennett.......................................................................... Treasurer John Artz..................................................................................Trustee Thomas Berlin..........................................................................Trustee Shannon Zabaldo.....................................................................Trustee The public is invited to attend all Board of Education meetings. Business meetings are held the third Monday of each month and workshop meetings are held on the first Monday, both beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Administration Building, which is located off Gladys St. between Starr Elementary and Plainwell Middle School.

THE PLAINWELL COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Non-Profit Org. US Postage

PAID

Plainwell, Michigan Permit No. 37

Plainwell Community Schools 600 School Drive Plainwell, MI 49080-1595

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

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION OFFICES • 685-5823

** ECRWSS **

Susan Wakefield......................................................Superintendent Bob Van Dis.............................Director of Curriculum & Instruction Melissa Gelbaugh..............................................Director of Finance Ron Ward..........................................Director of Human Resources Jeff McNutt.................................................. Director of Technology Greg Smith....................... Director of Operations & Transportation Dave Price........................................................Director of Athletics

Postal Customer

PLAINWELL HIGH SCHOOL 2015-16 SPRING SPORTS SCHEDULE VARSITY SOFTBALL MAR 29 Portage Northern APR 12 Kalamazoo Central

14 South Haven

18 Gull Lake 21 Schoolcraft 22 Allegan 26 Otsego 27 Parchment

29 Three Rivers

30 Otsego Tournament MAY 4 Galesburg 5 Dowagiac 10 Sturgis

13 Edwardsburg

17 Paw Paw 19 Middleville 20 Vicksburg

23 Godwin Heights 25 Olivet

27 Rain Date 31 Pre-Districts

GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER H A A H H H A H H A H A A H H A A A H TBA TBA

JV SOFTBALL MAR 29 Portage Northern APR 12 Kalamazoo Central

14 South Haven

18 Gull Lake 22 Allegan

23 Otsego Tournament 26 Otsego 27 Parchment

29 Three Rivers MAY 4 Galesburg 5 Dowagiac 10 Sturgis 13 Edwardsburg

17 Paw Paw 19 Middleville 20 Vicksburg

21 Portage Northern Inv. 25 Olivet

A H H A A A H A A A H H A A H H A A

MAR 19 Varsity Scrimmages

24 Caledonia

26 Portage Northern Inv.

28 Battle Creek Lakeview

30 East Kentwood APR 13 Portage Central

15 GR Christian

20 Three Rivers

23 Williamston Tournament

27 Paw Paw 29 Mattawan MAY 2 South Haven 4 Vicksburg 9 Allegan 11 Dowagiac

13 Portage Northern 16 Edwardsburg 18 Sturgis 23 Otsego

31 MHSAA Districts

VARSITY BASEBALL H A A A H A H A A H H H A H H A A A H TBA

GIRLS JV SOCCER MAR 24 Caledonia

28 Battle Creek Lakeview

30 East Kentwood APR 13 Portage Central

15 GR Christian

20 Three Rivers 27 Open 29 Mattawan MAY 2 Kzoo Home School 4 Vicksburg 9 Allegan 11 Open

13 Portage Northern 16 Edwardsburg 18 Sturgis 23 Otsego

A A H A H A H H H A H H A A A H

MAR 29 Portage Northern APR 12 Wayland 13 Thornapple-Kellogg

15 South Haven

21 Schoolcraft

22 Allegan 25 Otsego

27 Parchment

29 Three Rivers MAY 4 Galesburg 5 Dowagiac 6 Hopkins 10 Sturgis

13 Edwardsburg

17 Paw Paw 20 Vicksburg 31 Pre-Districts JUNE 3 Districts 4 Districts

GIRLS TENNIS H H A A H H A H H H A A A H H A A TBA TBA

JV BASEBALL MAR 29 Portage Northern APR 12 Wayland

13 Thornapple-Kellogg

15 South Haven 21 Schoolcraft 22 Allegan 25 Otsego 27 Parchment

29 Three Rivers MAY 4 Galesburg

5 Dowagiac 6 Hopkins 10 Sturgis 13 Edwardsburg

17 Paw Paw 20 Vicksburg 31 Pre-Districts

A A H H A A H A A A H H H A A H A

APR 13 Loy Norrix H 16 & 18 Greater Kzoo Inv A

19 South Haven H

21 Middleville (V Home) (JV Away)

25 Paw Paw H 27 Allegan A MAY 2 Otsego A 4 Dowagiac A 11 Wayland H

14 Wolverine Conf H 16 Galesburg H 17 Hastings A

19 MHSAA Regionals A JUNE 3 MHSAA State Finals A

TRACK & FIELD MAR 29 Edwardsburg APR 12 Allegan

15 Otsego Relays 19 Sturgis

26 Dowagiac Jamboree

29 Allegan Relays MAY 3 South Haven 10 Otsego

13 WC @ Three Rivers 20 Regionals JUNE 4 MHSAA State Finals

H A A A A A A H A A A

BOYS GOLF APR 11

13

14

18

20

20

22

25

27

28

29 MAY 2

13

19 JUNE 1

Vicksburg Jamboree Paw Paw Jamboree Greater Kalamazoo Edwardsburg Jamboree Otsego Jamboree Plainwell Jamboree JV Invite @ Comstock Allegan Jamboree South Haven Jamboree Tom Collins Inv @ GL M-89 Challenge @ Lynx Sturgis Jamboree Dowagiac Jamboree WC @ Dowagiac MHSAA Regionals

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

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