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Summer Reading Fun at Seaton

Come enjoy the Summer Reading Fun on Tuesday, July 12th, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the Seaton Elementary Playground to exchange books and have fun playing on inflatables, eating yummy desserts and seeing each other.

All Seaton students in Kindergarten through Fourth grade were given 3 new books to take home on the last day of school.

Another Summer Reading Fun event will be August 9 at 7:00 pm on the Seaton playground with another Book Swap, desserts, inflatables, fun and friends!

School lunch prices will rise in fall

The Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education has approved an increase in the price of lunches at all middle and high schools in the District for the 2011-12 school year.

Elementary lunch prices remain the same.

The increase is required by the federally mandated Healthy Hungry Free Kids Act of 2010. School districts that have an average full paid price point below the federal average free reimbursement rate of $2.46 are being required to increase prices over time to this level. Lapeer’s current average lunch price is $2.35.

The lunch price increase will average about 8 cents for as many as 600 students in the middle schools and high schools of the approximately 3,500 lunch meals served daily.

Base lunch prices for the coming school year will rise:
At the Middle Schools
From $2.15 to $2.50 at the crisp station
From $2.15 to $2.25 at three other food stations
At the High Schools
From $2.15 to $2.50 at the play bowls station
From $3.00 to $3.25 at the redi set deli station

Nearly 47 percent of the District’s students qualify for free or reduced meals due to their parents’ household income and family size. LCS also will again next year offer Reduced qualified students no charge for lunch meals.

Lapeer Community Schools, from kindergarten through 12th grade, will continue to offer free breakfast to all students.

East/West will have co-op hockey, swimming

In its budget adoption on June 16, the Lapeer Community School Board approved a co-op hockey team for students from Lapeer East and Lapeer West high schools. The Board also agreed to maintain a co-op swim team for students from the two high schools.

In the budget action, the board also agreed to increase pay-to-participate fee for the 2011-12 school year. The annual fee allows a student to play in up to four sports during the school year.

At the high schools, the fee has increased from $120 to $150 a year. Middle school participation fees have been raised from $95 to $125. Students who qualify for reduced-price lunches will pay half of the regular participation fee. Students who qualify for free lunch will pay $25. In the past, there has been no fee for students who qualify under the free lunch program.

School board approves 2011-12 budget

The Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education has approved a $49.7 million budget for the coming 2011-12 school year.

Throughout the budget process the Board faced state funding decreases and retirement cost increases that led to a potential shortfall of $8.6 million from current year spending.

About half of that will be made up in concessions totaling $4 million in new contract provisions with the Lapeer Education Association.

Another $2 million will come in other spending reductions. Part of those reductions include voluntary pay cuts of 2.5% by the two assistant superintendents and the Central Office administrators in the 2011-12 school year. Those administrators also agreed to a 7.5% reduction in pay for the 2012-13 school year.

The remaining $2.6 million required to balance the budget will come from the District’s fund equity. The District may qualify for an added $100 per student in state funding by meeting the governor’s financial best practices criteria. That could represent another $600,000 in revenue, reducing the fund equity portion contribution to the budget to $2 million.

The budget calls for a staff reduction of 45 teaching positions, which at this time includes 8 layoffs. The remainder of the staff reductions will come from retirements and resignations.

Under cuts to the athletic department budget at the high school level, the District will only fund one co-op hockey team for students from both Lapeer East and Lapeer West. The board agreed to continue to fund a co-op swim and dive team for students from both schools.

Pay-to-Participate fees at the high schools will rise from the current $120 to $150 per student (for participation in up to four sports) and at the middle schools from $95 to $125 for the 2011-12 school year.

City makes plans for Box City

Each year, Lapeer Neighborhoods, Inc. sponsors a FREE craft/art event targeted to pre-school & elementary age children called “Box City” during the Lapeer Days Festival.

This year’s event will take place during Lapeer Days downtown under the Farmer’s Market Pavilion from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, August 19th, and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 20th. Since this is a FREE event, it is quite popular and fun!

The goal is to help educate young people about how healthy, vibrant cities are formed via planning/zoning. The children receive a color coded “permit” at the registration table to build a place to live, work, buy things or help people. They then receive small cardboard boxes and crafts to decorate their “building.”

After each child completes their own masterpiece, they place it on the faux City grid in the proper color coded zone (i.e. homes near parks away from factories/industry; places to help people near neighborhoods, etc.). Each creation is a great piece of art, individually; but when all the buildings are placed together in the “City” it truly is a wonderful site.

This activity is supported by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. The Downtown Business Association also supports the program annually. Local involvement is key to the success of this event!!

Sometimes older students are the best volunteers for this program! Younger children really relate to teenage mentors. If any junior high or high school students are interested in volunteering (parents and art teachers are also always welcome), they can contact Denise Soldenski, Grant Administrator for the City of Lapeer at (810) 245-4221 or dsoldenski@ci.lapeer.mi.us.

Schickler hosts Summer Book Swap

East Class of '96 sets reunion

The Lapeer East Class of 1996 will host its 15th reunion on Aug. 13 at 7 p.m.
At Castle Creek Golf Course in Lum.

Tickets are $40/person. For details, contact Mary Kobylczak 810-614-7855
Spatulaj@yahoo.com, or Mindy Patrick 810-724-0567 dollzdimplez@yahoo.com.
Or visit the Class of 1996 website to register, RSVP, or buy tickets:
http://www.classof1996.myevent.com/.

Sponsors, donors sought for R-W 8th grade 'DC' golf outing

The Rolland-Warner Washington, DC, Committee, in collaboration with Devil’s Ridge Golf Course and Metamora Country Club, is hosting a Golf Outing on July 23 to raise funds for our 8th grade students attending their Washington, DC, Field Trip in early November of 2011. The outing begins at 12:30 p.m. with a shotgun start at 2 p.m.

Parents, teachers, and community members have come together to raise funds for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these 8th graders to go to Washington DC and to be part of their curriculum. The decision was made to move the Washington, DC, Field Trip to November, rather than the spring, so these young people can have deeper understanding and prior knowledge through hands-on learning experiences in Washington, DC. However, that shortened the time these young people have to fundraise and pay for their trip. They need your help to make this fundraiser successful.

Donations in the form of merchandise, gift cards, etc. are being collected for the silent auction and prizes for the golfers. The donations will make it possible for more than 160 participants to attend their Washington, DC, Field Trip and touch many young adults’ lives!

Sponsors also can contribute at levels ranging from $100 to $550 in exchange for a wonderful advertising opportunity for their businesses, a tax deduction, and the knowledge of helping local youth attend this awesome once in a lifetime opportunity of going to Washington DC and actually being part of their 8th grade curriculum!

All donations will be tax deductible and accompanied by a receipt, if requested, not to mention the advertising received through a donation. All businesses that donate items will be listed in the program, which will be handed out to approximately 300 golfers, more than 600 school employees and the more than 160 field trip participants and their families!

Thank you for supporting your local youth!

For details, please contact Anne Prill at 810 931-9852 or via email at aprill@lapeerschools.org.

Chalk, books and exercise cap off the year at Lynch

Lynch Elementary students had a busy day June 3 as they demonstrated some sidewalk creativity, picked up some books for summer reading and -- for the fifth graders -- got in a little exercise.

Students in all grades particiapted in the chalk drawing contest sponored by the Lapeer Rebeckahs, turning the west side of the school yard into a gallery of visual delights.

At the same time, the PTC sponosred Book Sale was set up under a tent at the front of the school, drawing both students and their parents to some fine book bargains.

The bright sunny day also gave the 5th graders another chance to put in some laps on the athletic field out back. Throughout the school year the older students have been improving their fitness through their running club.

The Book Sale was a big success, which contributed to the PTC's funds for speical projects at the school.

This year's Walk-a-Thon in the fall raised more than $3,000 for the PTC funds, with the help of a long list of sponsores, including Kohl's, Columbiaville Flea Market, Hofman Shoes, Phil’s Tractor Repair, Delynn's Designs, Dinius Trucking, Farm House Family Eatery, Lee's Auto Repair, M3 Graphix, Tattoos At The Red Room, Use It Again Tools, Whispering Pines Adult Foster Care Home, Marz Food Service, Minkler Electric, Alaura's Portrait, Chilly Cow, Kaye Financial, Lapeer Sound Machine DJ Service, Mark Johnson Builder, Michaud Bookeeping, Outback Nails and Tanning, Performance Horses, Side Tracks Bar and Grill, Smith Refrigeration, Thorpe Animal Hospital, Wooden Nickel and Silver Screen.

Lapeer West hosts basketball camp

Boys Entering 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade in the fall are invited to a summer basketball camp Monday through Thursday, June 20 - 23 and June 27 - 30 at the Lapeer West High School Gym.

The sessions are conducted by Lapeer West head basketball coach Andy Roberts and his staff and West varsity basektball players.

Camp runs from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. each day. The cost for the two-week session is $50. Basketball campers can register at the door.

Campers will learn how to:
• Improve ball handling and shooting.
• Strengthen defensive fundamentals.
• Develop teamwork skills.
• Learn to play at a higher level.

For more information, please contact coach Andy Roberts at 810-667-2477 or email aroberts@lapeerschools.org.

East boys take Metro League baseball crown

The Lapeer East Varsity Baseball Team won the he Flint Metro League championship by downing Holly, 12 - 2 and 8 - 3, on May 31 in a double-header.

Community High School Top Students 2011

Ali Ruffner has attended Lapeer Community High School for all four years, starting in 2007. Ali has attained an overall grade point average of 3.24 and is ranked number one in her 2011 graduating class. She has been an active volunteer with local church groups and with Briarwood Home/Health Care as well during the summer. She is an accomplished artist and has attended the Educational-Technical Center in the Early Childhood Program. Ali will attend the University of Michigan-Flint in the fall, where she plans to study Psychology. She aspires to open her own practice with an intense interest in helping others. When asked about the impact of the program at LCHS, Ali simply stated “I wouldn’t be where I am at, if it weren’t for this school.”

Sarah Emmons has attended Lapeer Community High School for three years, starting in 2008. Sarah has attained an overall grade point average of 3.12 and is ranked number two in her 2011 graduating class. Sarah is the daughter of Lauren and Toni Emmons. Sarah has been active in gymnastics, competitive cheer, as well as the Lapeer Swim and Dive team during her high school career. She also is an accomplished artist. Sarah has attended the Educational-Technical Center in the Residential Electric/HVAC program. Sarah will attend Mott Community College in the area of Graphic Design and aspires to own her own Photography or Web Design business.

Jessica Hodges has attended Lapeer Community High School for all four years, starting in 2007. Jessica has attained an overall grade point average of 2.82 and is ranked number three in her 2011 graduating class. Jessica is the daughter of Robert and the late Debra Hodges. Jessica has been active with Lapeer Community Schools OMNI Council, serving as a co-chair during her senior year. She also is active in volunteerism within the Lapeer community and has attended the Educational-Technical Center in the Auto Collision Repair program. Within that program, she attained membership in the National Technical Honor Society. Jessica will attend either Mott Community College or Baker College to further her study of Collision Repair and aspires to open her own Body Shop.

Lapeer East Top Students 2011

Hillary Davlin, is ranked in a three-way tie for 1st (4.0), is the daughter of John and Colleen Davlin of Attica. While in high school, Hillary served as class council president (11, 12), secretary for NHS (12), varsity soccer captain (10, 11, 12) and varsity cross country captain (11, 12). She has received the Congressional Art Award and the Governor’s Traveling Art Exhibit (top 30 pieces in state). She was chosen by East staff for the Farm Bureau Young People’s Leadership Seminar and as the recipient of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). She has also volunteered her time to serve at Suncrest, at soccer club youth clinics and as a tutor through NHS. Hillary plans to attend the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor to study architecture in the fall.

Cassandra Sornig ranked 1st (4.0 with two other students), is the daughter of Jim and Betty Sornig and enjoys inspiring others through her involvement in mission trips (9, 10, 11, 12) to Tennessee, West Virginia and New York. While on these trips she assisted at soup kitchens, shelters and community cleanup projects. Cassandra also has volunteered locally at Adopt-A-Highway road cleanup, Vacation Bible School and Michigan Christian Youth Camp. Cassandra has encouraged others here at school through cheerleading (9, 10, 11, 12), being named MVP (12). Cassandra has been a member of NHS (11, 12) and Grondins College of Cosmetology where she was named to the National Technical Honor Society (12). She also works at Marguerite deAngeli Library and enjoys playing piano. Cassandra plans to attend Ferris State University to become a high school math teacher and is the recipient of the Ferris State Dean’s Scholarship.

Lindsey Weisler ranked 1st (4.0 with two other students), is the daughter of Dave and Liz Weisler. Lindsey has made many contributions to her school that includes Student Council (11, 12), where she served as secretary/treasurer (12), NHS (11, 12), publication of yearbook and school newspaper (10, 12), varsity tennis (11, 12) and volleyball (11, 12). Lindsey has demonstrated leadership in the community through the Red Cross Blood Drive, “Volley for a Cure” cancer fundraiser, after-school tutoring program, Lapeer Travel Youth Soccer Camp, Skinner Lake Nature Center, and bell ringer for the Salvation Army. Lindsey is this year’s recipient of the Principal’s Leadership Award as well as being named Scholar Athlete (9, 10, 11, 12). Lindsey plans to attend the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor to study chemical/biomedical engineering.

Michael Puskar (3.98) is the son of Steven and Marguerite Puskar and finished 4th in his class. He has been a member of cross country (9,10,11,12), swim and dive (10,11,12) and track and field (9,12,11,12), winning cross country’s Most Improved (11), swim and dive’s Toughest Rookie (10), and track’s MAC-T award for motivation, attitude and commitment (9). Academically, Michael has received accolades for High Honors (9, 10, 11, 12), AP Scholar (11, 12), and 1st for Bio Lab at Flint Metro League Math and Science competition (10). Michael also has been a member of NHS (11, 12), served as captain for cross country (12) and worked in the Lapeer summer tutoring program (9, 10). Michael plans to attend the University of Michigan to study Economics and Microbiology.

James Apfel, ranked 5th with a grade point average of 3.9539, is the son of Deb and Dave Apfel of Attica. He has been active in Boy Scout Troup 144, serving in a variety of projects involving building, food collections, playground clean-ups and recycling throughout his high school years. In 4-H and FFA, he has won awards in public speaking, “Best of Show for Fine Arts,” and was named State Finalist in an “agricultural issues” leadership contest. In sports at East, James participated in both track and tennis. Following graduation, he plans to study mechanical engineering at the University of Michigan-Flint.

Alison Gonda is ranked number 6 with a 3.95. She is the daughter of Andrew and Angela Gonda of Attica. In addition to her academic achievement and being inducted into NHS, she participated in high school in both Jazz Band and Symphony Band, receiving related recognitions for her musical performance playing the trumpet. Alison was chosen team captain in high school softball, receiving both Metro League Honorable Mention and MIP recognition (10). In grade 11 she was named to the Metro League Second Team and was awarded MVP as team catcher. Alison will be attending Oakland University in Rochester this fall with plans to enter the field of physical therapy as a career.

Katherine Dayton, with a 3.9431 grade point average is ranked number 7. She is the daughter of Robert and Lauren Dayton of Attica. In high school, Katherine has been a member of the marching band (10, 11, 12) and was honored with the prestigious “John Phillip Sousa Award.” She is also a member of the honor society (NJHS - 9, 10 and NHS -11, 12). She served as class representative for Class Council (12) and on the staff-selected Omni Council (11, 12). Katherine also has been very active with the school dance team, serving as team captain (10, 11, 12) and being twice recognized for leadership (11, 12) as well as MVP (10). She plans to study French and communications at Western Michigan in Kalamazoo beginning this fall.

Caressa Graves, tied for 8th with a 3.9182, is the daughter of Lisa Reinert of Lapeer and James Graves of Midland. Service, sports and leadership all have played an important role for Caressa in high school. She has volunteered to help with “Empty Bowls” and “Relay for Life” (9, 10, 11, 12) and tutoring (9). In sports, she participated in volleyball and tennis (9, 10, 11, 12) and basketball (9). In the area of leadership, as part of Class Council she has served as secretary (12) and co-captain of her tennis team (12). Additionally, she has been part of the honor society (NJHS -9, 10 and NHS-11, 12) and her church youth group. Caressa has plans to study either secondary education or psychology in the fall at Hope College in Holland, Mich.

Steven Tadazak tied for 8th with a 3.92. He is the son of Darlene and Bob Tadazak, has achieved High Honors (9, 10, 11, 12) and is receiving the Board of Trustees Academic Honors Scholarship from CMU. Steven is a National Honor Society representative (11, 12) and participated in SSI (10). Steven played hockey (9, 10, 11, 12) and received Most Improved (9), Coaches Award (10), and Offensive Player of the Year (11, 12) for East as well as team captain (11, 12). Steven plans to attend Central Michigan University to pursue a degree in Business.

Dan Pierce (3.92), son of Roxanne and Matthew Pierce finished 10th in his class and is presently involved in National Honor Society and the high school Book Club, where he designed this year’s T-shirt. Dan served as Historian for National Junior Honor Society (9), placed 1st in Metro League Math/Science competition in Biology(9), and placed 1st in the MITES regional competition with a footstool he created(9). Outside of school Dan likes to draw and read. Dan’s future academic plans include pursuing his interest in drafting and design with a focus on computer-aided drafting. Dan will be attending U of M-Flint for a degree in Engineering.

Lapeer West Top Students 2011

Scott Essenmacher, son of David and Donna Essenmacher, has maintained a 4.0 grade point average throughout his high school career. He is a member of the National Honor Society. Throughout high school Scott participated in soccer, baseball, Science Olympiad and served as captain of the Quiz Bowl team. Scott has received Flint Metro League Honorable Mention for soccer and placed first in pre-calculus and second in physics at the Metro League Math and Science Competition. In the fall, he will attend Hope College to pursue a degree in engineering.

Laura Meinecke, daughter of Mark and Janet Meinecke, is graduating with a 4.0 grade point average. She is Treasurer of the National Honor Society, a Student Council representative and a member of Key Club. She has been involved in dance since the age of four at Sandra Brewer’s Dance Studio. Laura participated in both the Mott Community College Math Competition and the Metro League Math and Science Competition. She will be attending Michigan State University in the fall as a member of the Honors College to pursue a career in Biosystems Engineering.

Taylor Harvey, daughter of Andrew and Melody Harvey, has maintained a 4.0 grade point average throughout her high school career. She was president of National Honor Society and a member of Key Club. She was a member of the Symphony, Marching and Jazz Bands, and she participated in solo and small ensemble competitions. Throughout high school, she was a dedicated member of her church youth group and volunteered with the children’s programs. In the fall, Taylor will be attending The University of Michigan-Flint where she has been accepted into the Honors Scholars Program. She will double major in Journalism and Basic Education and minor in English. In college she plans to play in the Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band and join the school newspaper staff.

Craig Ritchie, son of Michael and Karen Ritchie, is graduating with a 3.988 grade point average. Throughout his high school career, Craig has been an active member of the Concert, Symphony, Jazz and Marching Band. He is a member of the National Honor Society and a two-time participant in the Lapeer County Math and Science Competition. Craig was a 7th place medalist in the Mott Community College Math Competition and an award winner in the Michigan Industrial Technology Education competition. In the fall, Craig will be attending the University of Detroit-Mercy on scholarship, where he will major in Architecture.

Erica Miller, daughter of William and Susan Miller, is graduating with a 3.981 grade point average. She is Vice President of the National Honor Society, board member of the Key Club and section leader of the Lapeer West Marching Band. Erica is involved with cadet teaching, the Links program and peer tutoring. While maintaining her academics, Erica has been a competitive figure skater for the past 12 years, in which she has medaled twice at the Regional Figure Skating Championships. Erica will be attending the University of Michigan, where she has been granted preferred acceptance into the School of Education. She plans to pursue a career in Secondary Education, majoring in Mathematics with a minor in American Sign Language.

Deanna Childress, daughter of Doug and Diane Childress, is graduating with a 3.976 grade point average. Deanna has been a member of the Symphony and Marching Band throughout all of high school and has played with the Lapeer Civic Orchestra. She was a Key Club member and has participated in multiple community events including Relay for Life. Deanna is a member of the National Technical Honor Society at Ed-Tech and has received several competition awards through the Culinary Arts program including a Silver Medal at SkillsUSA in the Culinary Arts Team Banquet Competition. In the fall, Deanna will attend the Culinary Institute of Michigan to study Baking, Pastry and Business.

Aidan Smith, son of Stephen and Jennifer Smith, graduated with a 3.962 grade point average. Throughout high school he has been a member of the Lapeer West Concert, Symphony, Marching and Jazz bands, as well as the Quiz Bowl and Cross Country teams. Aidan was awarded the distinction of Commended National Merit Scholar. This summer he will be entering the Marine Corps and leaving for recruit training in California. After the Marines, he plans to attend an agricultural university to study animal science.

Matthew Cox, son of Michael Cox and Laura Turczyn, graduated with a 3.950 grade point average. Matt played soccer and received the Scholar Athlete Award all four years. He was a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council his junior and senior years, and a member of the Yearbook staff. During his junior and senior years he volunteered at the soup kitchen at St. Paul on Fridays after school. In the fall, Matthew will attend Michigan State University to pursue a career in Veterinary Medicine.

Sarah Tiffany, daughter of Todd and Ann Tiffany, graduated with a 3.944 grade point average. She was a member of National Honor Society for two years and received the Business Department Award. She was involved in various community service activities where she discovered tutoring elementary students was most rewarding. As a member of the Varsity Cheerleading team throughout high school, she received the Scholar Athlete award all four years and was awarded All League honors and the Coach’s Award her senior year. In the fall Sarah plans to attend the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor to study Business. Her long term goal is to pursue a career in Finance.

Stephanie Osip, daughter of Dennis and Michelle Osip, graduated with a 3.923 grade point average. She has been a dual-enrolled student at Mott Community College and the University of Michigan-Flint for the past two years, having earned enough credits to enter college as a sophomore. Her many volunteer activities include Lapeer Days, the Lions Club, the Links Program and Peer Tutoring. She will continue to attend the University of Michigan-Flint and major in Human Biology. Her long-term goal is to pursue graduate study to become a physician assistant.

Eric Birkle, son of Kurt and Raelene Birkle, is graduating with a 3.918 grade point average. Eric has been a member of the Varsity Tennis team for four years and Varsity Track and Field for three years. Throughout high school Eric was a member of the Concert, Symphony and Marching Bands as well as a solo and ensemble participant. Eric was involved with Key Club for four years, serving as Secretary and Vice President. He has been a Star Lab volunteer for three years and a National Honor Society member for two years. This past summer he hosted an exchange student from France and hopes to visit France in the near future. Eric enjoys art and has won a Scholastic Gold Key Award and a Congressional Award for his drawings. Currently, Eric is working part-time at Suncrest Medical Care Facility and has just finished his first dual enrollment class through Kendall College of Art and Design. This fall, Eric plans to attend Saginaw Valley State University and will major in Art and minor in French.

Book Boosters total climbs to $7,500

In just a couple of months, Lapeer Community Schools has gathered more than $7,500 in donations through the new fundraiser, Book Boosters. The program, which features simplified online contributions, is designed to provide the district with books and other materials that promote literacy and encourage students to read.

It is part of a District-wide Caught You Reading program, which launched in February, and Rob's Books, the brainchild of Robert and Tami Erickson. It’s a foundation they established to fund books for the schools’ libraries. They are working with area organizations and partnering with Lapeer Community Schools.

The foundation is named in memory of Tami’s son, Spc. Rob Hornbeck, who was tragically killed in an accident after returning from Iraq almost five years ago. Rob was a 2001 Lapeer East graduate, and an avid reader. Stepdad Bob Erickson describes Rob, “A really bright kid — just loved to read.”

“This program is unusual because 100 percent of proceeds go toward buying books,” says K-12 English Language Arts Consultant Lisa Madden. Another feature that is welcome for many parents: There are no catalogs to peruse or gifts to buy. “It’s all online contributions, which makes it nice for people who don’t want to buy something or feel pressured to buy,” Madden says.

The fundraising campaign is being run in partnership with Jacksonville, Ill.-based Perma-Bound Books, a provider of books and teaching materials to schools and libraries worldwide. All of the money donated through Book Boosters will go toward purchasing books from the company.

Like many other school districts, Lapeer Community Schools has faced budget cuts in recent years and is currently developing next year’s budget with an anticipated 20% cut in funding. That makes fundraising campaigns like Book Boosters especially important for students and educators, Madden says. “Certainly, something like Book Boosters can help us get the resources we need but would otherwise have to forgo,” she says. “Such a program can really make a big difference, especially in times like these.”

For more information, contact Lisa Madden at 810-538-1647 or via email at lmadden@lapeeerschools.org or visit the Lapeer Community Schools Book Boosters web page at www.book-boosters.com/caughtyoureading.

East Girls grab share of Metro League title

The Lapeer East Girls soccer team finished off the regular season by winning a share of the Metro League title. After losing to Fenton, 1-0 (East's only loss this season), both teams were tied for 1st place. East needed to win out, which they did, beating their last 3 opponents, Linden, Holly and Swartz Creek, by a combined score 9-1. East has won 16 league titles since 1990.

Coach Chad Kenny noted, "We are very proud to win a league championship in a very competitive Metro League. The girls were committed and focused on the little things necessary to carry on the winning tradition of girls soccer teams at Lapeer East."

Tutoring Made Easy at FLC

Is homework a nightly battle at your house? Do you and your child end up yelling at each other while nothing gets done? What happens if you say you are taking away a treasured electronic toy? Does being grounded change behavior?

If any of these sounds like a regular occurrence in your home you need the relief that only "Tutoring Made Easy" can provide! Find out what you can do to end this struggle between you and your child! Enroll in Family Literacy Center's FREE workshop for parents and caregivers!

Wednesday, June 22
9:00 am-3:00 pm
Family Literacy Center
311 Higgins Street
Lapeer, 48446
Located behind the Lapeer Post Office parking lot

Lunch and all materials are provided. Registration is required. Adults only, please. No childcare is provided. To register, contact Family Literacy Center at 810-664-2737 or email ican@readlapeer.org. Give your name and phone number along with the date of the workshop you wish to register for.

Visit Family Literacy Center on the web at www.readlapeer.org. Family Literacy Center and the Lapeer District Library are Partners for Literacy in Lapeer County.

Rolland-Warner students check their hives

Rolland-Warner students got a chance May 20 to check on the status of their bee hives, situated behind the school.

Students donned beekeeping suits and headed out to the hives for an up-close look at the progress of the two hives.

Only one of the hives has been populated with bees, which appear to be thriving. The hive will have produced some honey for harvest later this summer.

The project began after a chance discovery during a walk in the woods last fall when Mike Wiltse’s special education class came across a bee hive in a large fallen down oak tree.

Lori Bireta's outdoor education class, along with Wiltse’s students, adopted the project to try to keep the bees alive through the winter.

For a look at more photos from the beekeeping lesson, please visit the LCS Picasa albums at:
https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/RollandWarnerStudentsCheckTheirHives#

Disability Day at Schickler

Students at Schickler Elementary recently took part in the school’s first Disability Awareness Day.

Students got an opportunity to visit three main stations that dealt with: Hearing/Vision, Learning/Speech, and Gross Motor/Fine Motor. All students were given the opportunity to see what it is like to have one of these impairments (i.e. put on goggles simulating a severe vision impairment, maneuver through a course with a wheelchair, etc.).

"Teachers said this was an awesome day. Students really enjoyed each station. Some of the students’ thoughts included:

It really helped people see what it is like."

"Some people make fun of others, this really helped." (This came from a girl who has a brother in a wheelchair.)

"It was fun."

"It was kind of sad."

"It was hard. Imagine someone who really has to deal with that every day."

"It was weird using the gloves with cotton in them to see how hard it is to do everyday things."

Summer School registration is now open

LCS has a long history of offering Summer School opportunities to students from Lapeer Schools, as well as surrounding districts. All high school and middle school students, even those outside of Lapeer, are welcome to attend.

The High School program runs from July 7 through August 3, Monday through Friday, and includes 60 hours of instruction. There also is an online learning component that allows students to earn credit online and is self-paced. That program runs from July 7 through August 5, Monday through Friday. The Summer School program is housed at the beautiful Rolland-Warner Middle School, 333 DeMille Boulevard, Lapeer.

All core classes are available, as well as elective courses in Physical Education, Health, Michigan History, Consumer Skills and Technical Writing. All courses are taught by certified, highly qualified staff members.

Cost of the program is $150 per course (LCS students) and $175 for non-LCS students if they register by July 2, 2011. There is an additional charge of $10 per course if they register after July 2, 2011. For an LCS student, that is only $7.50 per day if they take one course, $15 per day if they take two courses, and $22.50 per day if they take the maximum three courses.

The all-new Middle School program runs from July 18 through July 29, Monday through Friday, and includes 30 hours of instruction. Students have an opportunity to remediate core content in grades 6, 7, and 8 before entering the next school year. The program is also housed at Rolland-Warner Middle School.

All core classes are available, including English, Math, Science and Social Studies. All courses are taught by certified, highly qualified staff members.

Cost of the program is $75 per course (LCS students) and $90 for non-LCS students if they register by July 7, 2011. There is an additional charge of $10 per course if they register after July 7, 2011. That is again only $7.50 per day for LCS students if they take one class and $15 per day for LCS students that take the maximum two courses.

All students in the Summer School program are offered Universal Free Breakfast and Lunch! This is an outstanding benefit, in addition to the valuable educational opportunities the program provides. We have worked with all facets of the District to offer an affordable, rewarding Summer School experience.

To register, please contact Linda Zecchin, Department of Instruction, at 538-1632. Questions about programming can be directed to kwalters@lapeerschools.org.

Rolland-Warner students raise a barn

Using a quarter-size replica of a 19th Century American Midwest timber frame barn, the Michigan Barn Preservation Network visited Rolland-Warner Middle School May 20 to give 6th and 7th grade students a chance to "raise" a barn.

The afternoon event introduced students to part of our agricultural heritage, the pride of craftsmanship and offered a glimpse at what can happen when people come together to accomplish something that they cannot do alone.

Rolland-Warner Teacher Mike Wiltse was joined by Michigan Barn Preservation volunteers Melissa Jaskiewicz, Ben Lewis and Jen Kramer.

For a look at photos from the afternoon event, please visit the LCS Picasa albums at:
https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/RWStudentsBuildABarn#

Board, teachers reach agreement on contract

The Lapeer Community Schools and the Lapeer Education Association have reached an agreement on a one-year contract that will run though the 2011-2012 school year.

Teachers ratified the contract and the School Board voted to approve the contract on May 26.

Key provisions of the agreement include working condition changes and wage and benefit concessions by the teachers that are expected to save the District in excess of $4 million in the coming school year.

“In light of the state revenue cuts that the District is facing, both the District and its teachers worked together to address the cost-cutting that is necessary and to minimize the effects in the classroom,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “It was truly a collaborative effort.”

The new contract carves out a structural change that reduces the number of teaching positions in the District by more than 30 and increases the amount teachers pay toward their health care premiums. The one-year contract also includes a wage freeze.

Despite the commitment by the teachers to save the District $4 million a year, the Board still needs to reduce spending by another $3 million to $4 million to balance the District’s budget for the 2011-12 school year.

Sports Physicals offered June 8

Students who would like to play school sports in the 2011-12 school year can take their sports physicals at the Lapeer Regional Physical Therapy Center, 1057 Suncrest Drive, Lapeer, on Wednesday, June 8th, beginning at 5 p.m. The cost is $20.

The physicals will be done for incoming 7th-12th grade LCS (East, West, Rolland-Warner and Zemmer) students. This is a change from previous years: Physicals will not be offered in August

Important Information:

 Only the Lapeer Regional Physical Form will be accepted for the physicals on this date; no other physical forms will be accepted (including the MHSAA form).
 Physical forms may be picked up in the offices of East, West, Rolland-Warner, Zemmer, and the LCS Administration & Services Center.
 A parent/guardian must sign the physical form.
 Physical forms for the 2011-2012 school year must be dated on or after April 15, 2011.
 Physicals WILL NOT be offered in August.
 Physical forms must be on file at the athletes’ respective school prior to athletic participation; this includes all tryouts and practices.

Maple Grove students turn trash into art

Students at Maple Grove Elementary School turned trash into treasure and put it on display at their Recycled Art Show on May 17. Friends and family members to stopped by to see the art work, all of which was put together by students over the last six weeks using only recycled items.

Working together, 3rd, 4th and 5th graders created a large chandelier made entirely from melted and painted plastic bottles, complete with functional lights. The art work will be a permanent fixture in the school.

The kindergarten class had “found items” collages set up on a table for people to see. The collages were styled after the work of modern artist Louise Nevelson, who would take assortments of found items, lay them down together and paint them all the same color. The kindergarten students did the same thing, mostly painting their collages bright green, blue or pink.

The 1st grade class at Maple Grove made artistic masks out of recycled pieces of foam, cardboard and paper. The colorful and often outrageous faces showed the artistic creativity of small children.

Maple Grove 2nd graders displayed their flower garden project. The brightly colored flowers were all made from used plastic pop bottles.

The 3rd grade students also used plastic pop bottles to make decorative fish, which hung from the ceiling.

Silver and gray robots made by the 4th graders lined one whole wall of the cafeteria. The robots were made from recycled materials from home: cereal boxes, cardboard tubes and pieces of foam. After the pieces were glued together, they were painted silver and gray, giving them a perfect metallic look.

The 5th grade class worked together to make the Eco-City display, a model of a small town laid out on a table. The model was displayed collectively, but each student was assigned one building to design and create. Along with the physical model of the buildings, each student had to list ways that building could be more environmentally friendly. One student designed a fire department building with rain collection tubes on the roof that would collect natural water to be used by the firefighters.