Lapeer Community Schools

LCS blog has moved

2011-09-15T14:24:00.001-04:00

The LCS blog has been moved to a new platform. You can access the new blog at: lapeerschools.wordpress.com

Summer Reading Fun at Seaton

2011-07-07T16:39:00.003-04:00

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

2011-06-17T12:30:00.000-04:00

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

2011-06-17T12:28:00.000-04:00

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

2011-06-17T12:01:00.000-04:00

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

2011-06-16T11:24:00.002-04:00

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

2011-06-15T11:41:00.002-04:00

East Class of '96 sets reunion

2011-06-08T15:10:00.002-04:00

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

2011-06-08T11:37:00.004-04:00

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

2011-06-08T10:48:00.003-04:00

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

2011-06-06T12:19:00.003-04:00

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

2011-06-03T10:16:00.003-04:00

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

2011-06-02T13:43:00.005-04:00

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

2011-06-02T13:30:00.012-04:00

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

2011-06-02T12:17:00.020-04:00

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

2011-06-01T09:26:00.005-04:00

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

2011-06-01T08:30:00.003-04:00

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

2011-06-01T08:19:00.002-04:00

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

2011-05-31T21:34:00.000-04:00

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

2011-05-31T12:14:00.006-04:00

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

2011-05-31T12:12:00.000-04:00

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

2011-05-27T11:59:00.004-04:00

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

2011-05-27T10:37:00.002-04:00

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

2011-05-26T09:26:00.000-04:00

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

2011-05-25T09:51:00.012-04:00

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.

Veihl to continue her volleyball at St. Clair

2011-05-23T09:34:00.004-04:00

Martha Veihl, a starter on the Lapeer East volleyball team, has decided that she will continue with her volleyball career at St. Clair Community College.

“I chose (St. Clair) because I felt it was the right distance from home, and I already have some friends there,” said Veihl, who plans to study education and administration.

A three-sport star for Lapeer East, Veihl also played basketball and ran track for the Eagles.

Veihl said choosing St. Clair was an easy decision. “I considered a few other smaller schools, but St. Clair was my best option for volleyball,” she said. “I look forward to a successful season, and just getting to know my new teammates.”

Photo caption:
Martha Veihl signs her letter of intent surrounded by Chris, Susan and Emily Veihl as East coach Dan Purvis and St. Clair coach Chuck Weisner look on.

LCS Ed-Tech students are winners

2011-05-20T14:23:00.001-04:00

More than 20 students from Lapeer Community Schools earned honors this spring in a variety of competitions offered to students at the Lapeer County Intermediate School District’s Education and Technology Center.

The students and their awards, included:
Dominique Sweeney of Lapeer East, third place in personal care in the health occupations competition.
Kevin Gould of Lapeer Community High and Kevin Mason on Lapeer East, first place as members of the state floriculture team.
Ashley St. Clair of Lapeer West, second place as part of the state veterinary science team.
Paul Millard of Lapeer West, third place, MITES auto Tech.
Mason Ward of Lapeer East, second place, MITES carpentry team.
Richard Zock of Lapeer East, first place, MITES V-8 twin turbo project, second place in MITES connection rod drawing MD-8A and third place in MITES connection rod drawing MD-16A.
Mariah Fredericks of Lapeer East, first place in the breaking traditions award as part of the firefighting paramedic program.

In Skills USA competition, awards were earned by the following students:
Paul Millard of Lapeer West, third place, automotive master technician.
Ashlynn Balmer of Lapeer West, first place in Job Skills A
Alyssa Minton of Lapeer Community, first place in commercial baking.
Richard Zock of Lapeer East, first place in technical drafting.
Taylor West of Lapeer Community, second place in cosmetology.
Joey Gingiloski of Lapeer West, first place in collision repair.
Nate Morey of Lapeer West, third place in TV video production.
Lorinda Wils of Lapeer West, third place in TV video production.
Tabbithia Newton of Lapeer West, second place in first responder EMS.
Brandon Moss of Lapeer West, first place in MIG welding.
Tim Peterson of Lapeer West, second place in MIG welding.
Adam Pfeiffer of Lapeer West, third place in overall welding.
Mark Wells of Lapeer West, second place in team welding fabrication.

Board appoints Wendy Byard as new trustee

2011-05-20T09:35:00.001-04:00

The Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education has unanimously appointed Wendy Byard to fill the vacant trustee position on the board.

Byard will serve the remainder of the term of board member Bill Laidlaw, who resigned last month to take a job out of state. That term runs through June 30, 2012.

Byard is an English professor at Mott College. She has three daughters who attend Lapeer Community Schools.

Byard holds both a master’s and bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. She is also the author of the book “Teach and Reach for Classroom Miracles.”

She is a former English teacher at North Branch High School, and prior to her career in education was an advertising and marketing account executive for ad agencies in Chicago and Ann Arbor.

Turrill Student Council donates to Animal Shelter

2011-05-19T11:36:00.006-04:00

Members of the Turrill Elementary Student Council did a little shopping May 18 for provisions they donated to the Lapeer County Animal Shelter.

The students selected the Animal Shelter as the beneficiary of its community service project this year.

Armed with $96 that they earned from fundraisers throughout the year, the students first made a stop at Pet Supplies Plus to buy dog and cat food, kitty litter and a few toys for their new furry friends.

Then it was off to the Animal Shelter to drop off their donations and take a tour of the facility.

Student Council members got a chance to meet some of the dogs and cats that are housed at the shelter. The council got some help from parent volunteers and 5th grade teachers Phyllis VanHorn and Cheryl Roy.

For a look at more photos, please visit the LCS Picasa album at: https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/TurrillStudentCouncilDonatesToAnimalShelter#

East’s Turczyn is state’s top 3-point shooter

2011-05-19T10:34:00.001-04:00

Lapeer East Senior Keely Turczyn has been named to the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan's Top Shooter Award. During the 2010-2011 basketball season, Keely shot 41 three-point field goals out of 84 attempts for a 48.8% average.

Keely was awarded first place as she recorded the top 3-point field goal percent in the state of Michigan.

“I think its definitely an honor and especially because it’s my senior year,” Turczyn told a reporter after earning her recognition. “All my hard work has paid off. I didn’t know coach put me up for the award, but I wanted to thank my coach and team for such an awesome year. I know it’s an individual honor, but everyone played a part in what I accomplished.”

Turczyn says she is headed to Central Michigan for academics. “I wasn’t sure which college I wanted to go to, but just liked the college after considering a bunch of them. I’m undecided at this point about what I might major in.”

Keely also received 2nd-Team All Metro League Honors for the 2010-2011 Basketball Season. She is three-year varsity player. Keely was a team captain, led the team in assists, led the team in 3-point field goal percentage, averaged 9.7 pts. per game, and started all 20 games.

Lapeer East Varsity Girls Basketball Coach Phil Widzinski said, “I could not be more proud of Keely. She put a lot of hard work into this past season.”

Noting her strong leadership on and off the court, the coach added, “We could not have accomplished some of the things we did as team without Keely. She was a lights-out shooter that I could count on hitting the big shot when we needed it." Widzinski noted that in the East-West matchup this year, Keely hit a 3-pointer with 1 second left to win the game.

“This is a very prestigious award, and her teammates are proud of her,” he said.

Kindergarten Readiness workshops set

2011-05-18T10:55:00.002-04:00

Do you have a child age 4 or 5? Are you wondering what skills they need before entering Kindergarten? Would you like a way to measure their progress?

Family Literacy Center in partnership with Lapeer District Library is offering this workshop at no charge to you! Families will participate in fun projects, educational games, story-time and a snack. Each child will receive a free book. Siblings are also welcomed. Contact the Family Literacy Center office for the complete listing of workshops! ican@readlapeer.org or call 810-664-2737.

May 27, 2011, Friday
or
June 24, 2011, Friday
10:00 - 11:30 am
Metamora Library
4018 Oak Street, Metamora

Creative Writing Comes to Lapeer Celebrates the Arts

2011-05-18T10:12:00.003-04:00

Writing can be a powerful art form, and is suitable for all ages and levels of abilities. Come join us Saturday, June 4 & Sunday, June 5, 2011 to learn more, to practice your craft, or just dabble in the experience of writing in several risk-free sessions.

Registration is recommended to reserve your spot and ensure workshops are not cancelled. Walk-in registrants will be accepted if space is available.
Registration deadline is May 25. Please contact Lisa Madden at 810-240-5544
or email: lisamargaret64@gmail.com for further information.

Session 100: The Art of The Writer’s Notebook, Saturday 9:30-11:30
Audience: Recommended for educators and other interested adults
Cost: $20.00 *Registration proceeds will be donated to Kiwanis
Please Bring: Any kind of writing utensil and notebook that makes you want to write!
For Teachers Who (don’t) Write. This isn’t just for English Teachers! Keeping a notebook is an effective component of the writing process that we can share with our students. Experiencing the practice of keeping a notebook yourself will impact you personally and professionally. Join us to find out what a writer’s notebook is; how it can be used to inspire and improve student writing; and to experience several notebook strategies that will bring out the (non) writer in you.

Session 101: Writing Historical Fiction, Saturday 11:45-12:45
Audience: Recommended for High school students and adults
Cost: None
Please Bring: Any kind of writing utensil and notebook that makes you want to write!
A published author gives insights into how he used historical research in his writing. Historical research can be a great way to get ideas and a great way to weave fact and fiction together. Learn how to get started with your own ideas for a historical piece!

Session 102: Looking to Write Saturday, 1:00-2:15
Audience: Grade 6-Adults
Cost: None
Please Bring: Any kind of writing utensil and notebook that makes you want to write!
Writers are often inspired by objects, scenery, art, and photography. In this session, participants will use art pieces from the festival to inspire their words. You will be surprised where this experience will take you!

Session 103: Writer’s Notebook Samplers Saturday, Starting at 2:30
Audience: Age 8-Adults
Cost: None
Please Bring: Any kind of writing utensil and notebook that makes you want to write!
Experience a variety of ways that writers gather ideas in order to develop future writing pieces Participants may register for 1, 2, or all 6 writer’s notebook exercises. You will be given a brief introduction and a prompt, then set free to explore the grounds and the art festival with notebook in hand:
2:30 Sketching to inspire writing
3:15 Learning to Look: Observation walk
4:00 Responding to a photo/work of art
4:45 Making the ordinary...extraordinary
5:30 Eavesdropping--dialogue and bits of conversation/People-watching
6:00 Share your discoveries! Return to the tent to share (or just listen!) to highlights from other writer

Session 201: Responding to Primary Resources: Letters & Photos from the Civil War Sunday, 11:45-1:00
Audience: Recommended for middle, high school, and adult writers
Cost: None
Please Bring: Any kind of writing utensil and notebook that makes you want to write!
Primary resources often serve as inspiration for the creative writer. They lead way to mystery, character, historical research, poetry, and pieces of stories just waiting to be told. Join us as we explore several primary resources, and write it response to that exploration.

Session 202: Writing from the Stream Sunday, 1:15-2:30
Audience: Grade 6-Adults
Cost: None
Please Bring: Any kind of writing utensil and notebook that makes you want to write!
Some of our best writing often comes from the “stream of consciousness,” a spontaneous, ongoing writing activity that may include perceptions, impressions, or random fragments of thought. The key to writing from the stream is taking the time after the exercise to “mine” the writing, to look for those seed ideas. In this session, your facilitator will guide you through a writing activity, and then have you revisit work, highlight "gems,” and consider ways to revise your ideas for future projects.

Session 203: The Poetry of Music: Song Writing Workshop Sunday, 2:45-4:00
Audience: Age 8-Adults
Cost: None
Please Bring: Any kind of writing utensil and notebook that makes you want to write!
Have you ever wanted to write your own song? Do you have the music in your head but no words on paper? Participants will work with local musicians to learn and practice the art of songwriting.

REGISTRATION OPTIONS:
1. Please complete the information below, detach, and send to Lisa Madden, 250 Second Street, Lapeer, MI 48446
2. Call Lisa Madden at (810) 240-5544
3. Email: lisamargaret64@gmail.com
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name _________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________ Phone____________________Email__________________________
Please check sessions you will attend:
SATURDAY SESSIONS
 Session 100 The Art of the Writer’s Notebook (Please enclose $20 check made payable to Sunrise Kiwanis Club of Lapeer)
 Session 101 Writing Historical Fiction
 Session 102 Looking to Write
 Session 103 Writer’s Notebook Samplers: please circle sessions you will attend: 2:30 3:15 4:00 4:45 5:30 6:00 ALL
SUNDAY SESSIONS
 Session 201 Responding to Primary Resources: Letters & Photos from the Civil War
 Session 202 Writing From the Stream
 Session 203 The Poetry of Music: Song Writing Workshop

Registrations due by Wednesday, May 25 to reserve your space!!

All sessions will be held at the Art Festival, located on the grounds in front of Chatfield School and Mott Community College, at the corner of DeMille and Genesee Roads in Lapeer, Michigan. Look for signs in the History section of the festival.

East Ecology students monitor the river

2011-05-16T12:50:00.007-04:00

Lapeer East High School ecology students of Cheryl Butterfield spent the afternoon May 4 doing a bit of research at Hunters Creek, about a quarter mile north of the school.

Seniors Jackey Toland, Sam Rubick and Ginger Pearson set up their lab stations on the sidewalk to gather data on the health of the creek.
The 32 students waded the river and collected both water and species samples for further study.

Students use nets to gather critters in the stream.

Some of the data will be used by Susanne Lossing and the Flint River Watershed Council to assess the health of Hunters Creek, which feeds the Flint River.

Teacher Cheryl Butterfield reviews data collection with student Nicole Medellin.

Students Adam DeMeyere, Tate Robinson and CJ Spencer empty their nets into a tray for further study by Susanne Lossing of the Flint River Watershed Council.

Additional photos are available at the LCS Picasa site: https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/LapeerEastEcologyStudentsAssessRiverHealth#

Zemmer Drama: Greek Mythology

2011-05-16T12:39:00.000-04:00

Come one, come all and step back in time to Ancient Greece as the Zemmer Middle School Drama Club Presents Greek Mythology: A Night of Truth, Love, Journey, and Misfortune as written by Zemmer Middle School Students May 20 & 21at 7:30 p.m. in the Zemmer Middle School Cafetorium and on May 22 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $5.00 at the door, and no advanced tickets will be sold. Seating is general admission, so get there early. Zemmer Middle School is at 1920 W. Oregon Street in Lapeer. Any questions, please call 810-667-2413.

West students selected for leadership camps

2011-05-16T11:06:00.003-04:00

More than a dozen Lapeer West High Schools students have been selected to attend youth leadership camps this spring and summer sponsored by a variety of business and service groups.

The selected students include:

Boy’s State
Northwood University)
June 19 – 25, 2011
Colin Coulter
Michael O’Brien

Girl’s State (Michigan State University)
June 19 -25, 2011
Rebecca Francis
Ashley Nugent –alternate

Rotary
“Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders”
(University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario)
May 6 – 8, 2011
Katie Metter
Janelle Owen
Kaila Parent

Farm Bureau
“Young People’s Citizenship Seminar”
at Northwood University
June 27 – 30, 2011
Autumn Burgett
Kayla Stock

“High School Leadership Academy”
at Alma College
July 9 – 15, 2011

Operation Bentley 2011
May 14 – 20, 2011

Odd Fellows and Rebekahs
United National Pilgrimage for Youth
June 25 – July 16, 2011
Gina Cavanaugh
Lindsay Yateman
Stephanie Brown
Alexis Greer
Janessa Lanza
Allison Hamilton

Exchange students from Spain need local homes for July

2011-05-16T10:37:00.003-04:00

Four exchange students from Spain will be visiting Lapeer County this summer and need local homes for the month of July.

The students, age 14-16, are fluent in English and are looking for an opportunity to spend time with an average Midwestern family.

Marina: female, 15, parents both teachers, likes windsurfing, dancing, biking, horseback riding and being with friends.

Miguel: male, 16, parents are accountants, likes soccer, swimming, windsurfing, computers, movies, reading, camping and being with friends.

Jaime: male, 14, parents, attorney and civil servant, likes basketball, soccer, swimming, computers, movies, reading, hiking, music and being with friends.

Maria Teresa: female, 16, likes movies, being with friends, reading, music and singing.

If you are interested, please contact Jeanine LeMieux at 810-441-2817 or jlemieux@lapeerschools.org

Recycled art show at Maple Grove May 17

2011-05-16T08:37:00.002-04:00

It's the 3rd Annual Recycled Art Show for all grades at Maple Grove Elementary, 2020 Imlay City Road, Lapeer.

The show runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17th, in the Maple Grove Cafeteria.

See three dimensional art work created using only recycled items. Students have repurposed items that would have been thrown away into creative works of art.

Stop by and view an environmentally friendly city of the future, a Chihuly-inspired installation piece, eco-robots and so much more.

East, West students earn more than 80 awards in state MITES competition

2011-05-12T11:36:00.000-04:00

A total of 68 students at Lapeer East and West high schools won statewide awards in the 2011 Michigan Industrial & Technology Education Society (MITES) competition.

The industrial arts entries by the Lapeer Community Schools high school students numbered more than 80 projects ranging from a book case and a belt buckle to a bike rack and a Yo-Yo.

Several students submitted multiple projects and earned multiple awards.

At Lapeer West, the 2011 honorees include: Cole Acton 5th, 7th; Ben Barker 9th, HM; Kris Bauroth HM; Kaitlin Becker HM; Anthony Berti (2)HM; Alannah Butterfield 8th; Sarah Clinton (2)2nd; Devan Corneail 5th, 9th; Cody Crookedacre HM; Dylan Fraser 1st, HM; Joe Gingiloski HM; Cody Green HM; Nick Harris HM; Aaron Heckman HM; Kailey Johnson 10th; Garrett Kitts 6th; Joe Krawdack HM; Paul Millard HM; Adam Pfeiffer HM; Jake Pratt 2nd, HM; Collin Ray HM; Blake Russell (2)HM; Jacob Stone 6th, 10th; Kyle Stoutenburg HM; Jakob Thomas 8th, HM; Casey Thornton 10th, HM; Ryan Tuckfield 7th, HM; Gabe Walters HM; Mark Wells (2)HM; Whitnie West HM; Dustin Zecchin HM.

Lapeer East 2011 MITES winners are: Kaitlyn Kluge 1st ; Tyler Lemeuix 1st; Brenton Jaros 2nd; Sierra Woodcum 3rd; Kayla Dobrowiac 7th; Kyle Waid 6th, 9th; Jasmine Luzi 10th; Eric Ricchi 7th, HM; Cassie Diaz 9th; Caroline Ritchie 9th; Eddie Eskridge 10th; Cassie Pflanzer 10th; Zhehao Wang 7th; Kristin Lawson 4th; Sabrina Pflanzer 6th; Shayne Paulus 10th; Zach Sanford 6th; Josh Strong 7th; Zach Sehn 8th; Zach Johnson 5th; Sara Badran 4th; Joe Passey 8th ; Mike Collie 3rd; Kyle Laudermilk 4th; Tyler Agnew 10th; Brandon Warren 8th; Alex Curlett 7th; John Coliette HM; Bradley Basset HM; Justin Townsend HM; Zehn Hauser HM; Jeff Beatty HM; Matt Green HM; Adam Porter HM; Jason Humble HM; Jacob Wetherford HM; Dan Pierce HM.

Alumni Association sets dates for next three luncheons

2011-05-12T11:27:00.000-04:00

More than 100 Lapeer High School alumni gathered at the Michigan National Guard Armory in Lapeer on May 10 for the group's bi-monthly gathering.

The alumni luncheons help raise funds for the group's annual scholarship program and offers a chance for the grads to catch up with longtime friends.

The next three meetings of the Lapeer High School Alumni Association are set for July 12, September 13 and November 8 at the Lapeer Elks, 200 E. Nepessing, Lapeer.

Luncheon costs is $7.50 per person, and advance payment with reservation is required. To make a reservation for upcoming luncheons, please call 810-664-4598.

For a look at some snapshots from the May 10 luncheon, please go to https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/LapeerAlumniAssociationMay2011Luncheon#

Three middle school artists earn state honors

2011-05-09T10:05:00.004-04:00

Art work by three middle school students from Lapeer has been selected to be featured in the MAEA (Michigan Art Education Association) art exhibit in June.

Out of thousands of pieces of art from all over the State of Michigan, two Lapeer students were chosen to be in the top 100 and one student is in the top 15.
Zemmer Middle School student Samantha Schlaud’s work is among the top 15, and work by Madison Skene of Zemmer and Brooke Soroka of Rolland-Warner are among the top 100. They are students of Zemmer art teacher Marty Norton and Rolland-Warner art teacher Lisa Reinert.

“The MAEA show is the ‘big’ state exhibition and has very strict guidelines,” notes Norton, “and it is a great honor to have artwork chosen for display.”

The middle school students’ art work will be on display at the Michigan Historical Museum and Library, 702 West Kalamazoo, in Lansing from June 5-11. The art work exhibit is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.

The Michigan Art Education Association is a non-profit organization affiliated with the Michigan Education Association and the National Art Education Association. Its purpose is to define and establish the role of art education, to give support to creative teaching, and to foster study and research in art education. MAEA considers it both a privilege and responsibility to showcase the exemplary work of the talented children of Michigan.

Photo caption (from left):
Samantha Schlaud, Madison Skene,Brooke Soroka.

Tree planting honors Ronald Warner

2011-05-06T11:15:00.002-04:00

The Nipissing Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution has planted a tree and presented a plaque at Rolland-Warner Middle School to honor longtime Lapeer Schools educator Ronald Warner.

On Friday April 29th family, friends, members of Mark and Henry Schell C.A.R. Society and Nipissing Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution gathered at the Rolland-Warner Middle School for a tree planting to honor the late Ronald Warner, former teacher, principal and administrator of Lapeer Schools. The middle school is named in honor of Warner and former teacher and administrator Doris Rolland.

Nipissing Chapter chose April 29th, Arbor Day, as a fitting day for the dedication and planting of the Crimson King Maple tree in Mr. Warner’s name. Mrs. Ronald (Abi) Warner, a member of the chapter, received the gift and plaque and presented it to Tony Strump, Principal of Rolland-Warner Middle School.

Speakers included Lapeer teacher Fred Olive, State Rep. Kevin Daley and Nipissing Chapter Regent Marsha Jewett.

East Soccer team earns Good Sports award

2011-05-05T09:53:00.000-04:00

Please congratulate Chad Kenny and the Lapeer East Boys Soccer team on being awarded the 2010-2011 “Good Sports Are Winners" award.

This award is in recognition of displaying a high level of sportsmanlike behavior during the MHSAA tournament. The award is presented by the MHSAA and Meemic Insurance Company.

High school art on display at Gallery 194

2011-05-05T08:51:00.003-04:00

High School Art Downtown is featured at Gallery 194 in downtown Lapeer through May 14th displaying work of students engaged in studying art from Lapeer, North Branch, Almont and home school programs. On Friday, May 6, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. student artists will be on hand for a free opening with live music by Deb & Em, food and artistic conversation. The public is encouraged to venture to downtown Lapeer and enjoy the experience.

“Student art always inspires,” comments Gallery Director, Carolyn Manley McCarter. “This has become an annual event, and every year students stretch our imaginations working in a variety of mediums: clay, plaster, paint on canvas, fiber, photography, photography and mixed media. Some of these students are on their way to art school. Some not. But every one of them has important ideas to share and the Lapeer Center for the Arts Council is dedicated to providing an exhibit space accessible to the general public showcasing the depth of young talent in the region.”

Gallery 194 is located in downtown Lapeer at 194 West Nepessing Street and is open 11a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free.

Schools Kick off Book Boosters Fundraising Program

2011-05-03T14:10:00.002-04:00

Lapeer Community Schools is pleased to announce the launch of its 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.

“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.

“We picked the Perma-Bound program because we’ve dealt with them in the past, and we’ve been pleased with their products and service,”. Madden said. “Their binding lasts for years, and they offer an unconditional guarantee on their books—which is a money-saver for us and is increasingly rare these days.”

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.

Host Families Needed

2011-05-03T10:33:00.001-04:00

The Lapeer Rotary Club is looking for host families for a male foreign exchange student coming from Thailand. Each host family is asked to host the student for a 3- to 4-month time period.

The student will attend East or West High school starting this fall.

For more information, please contact Mike Higgins (810-245-4817) or Cindy Schlaud (810-667-3881).

Maple Grove Carnival May 13

2011-05-02T12:11:00.003-04:00

The Maple Grove PTA will host its first Maple Grove Carnival on Friday, May 13th, from 5-8 p.m.

The event is open to families from the entire Lapeer area. The evening events include games, inflatables, cotton candy and slushies, and even a dunk tank for Maple Grove Principal Mr. Dombrowski!

East cagers earn trip to summer basketball camp

2011-05-02T11:35:00.005-04:00

East High School basketball players Jeff Wells and Aaron Hirsh have both been dedicated to basketball since they were old enough to dribble a ball, and their hard work apparently has paid off. The two teens will spend a week this summer getting a good look from college coaches at a national competition in Ohio.

Wells, a senior, and Hirsh, a junior, were both standouts on the court this year for the Eagles. Wells, a small forward, averaged 10 points a game, and Hirsch, a point guard, averaged nine points a game and four rebounds. They will compete in the USA Junior Nationals competition July 18-24, which includes a free-throw contest, a three-point contest, and then pool play, where they will battle for a spot in the championship game.

Both qualified for the summer camp after attending a tryout of hundreds of high school players from Michigan and Canada on the Eastern Michigan University campus in early April. The competition in July will be loaded with Division II and junior college coaches and scouts, who will be looking for players to help bolster their programs.

“I went there and played not knowing if I could really make it, and in the end, I did,” Wells told a newspaper reporter last week. Wells says he is hoping this will give him an opportunity to play at the collegiate level this fall. “It’s exciting and fun,” said Wells, who also hopes the experience will earn him a basketball scholarship.

Hirsh still has a year left at East, but he also hopes that the scouts will see something they like when he takes to the hardwood at the summer camp. “It’s good to play against tougher competition. This is a lot tougher than the Metro League,” Hirsch said. The big difference: “Everyone’s a lot taller.”

The USA Junior Nationals is considered the top amateur high school basketball competition in the United States. It is viewed as an entry level to international competition and for high school athletes looking for college basketball scholarship opportunities. It is designed to serve as a gathering point for promising young players in an atmosphere of intense competition. Players who rarely are exposed to big time spring/summer competition go toe-to-toe with players of equal or superior skills.

Both students are working hard to save money for their summer trip. Each has to pay registration fees as well as transportation and lodging costs for the July competitions.

Photo caption:
Lapeer East Junior Aaron Hirsch and Senior Jeff Wells.

World record pancake-tosser at Murphy

2011-04-29T08:13:00.000-04:00

Murphy Elementary School is hosting a pancake dinner, featuring Chris Cakes of Michigan, on Friday, May 6th from 4:30-7:30p. Chris Cakes holds the world record of tossing and catching pancakes 25.4 feet high and making 555 pancakes in an hour. Check out his video and website at www.chriscakesofmi.com.

Dinner will include all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, orange drink and coffee. Tickets will be sold at the door for $5.00 per plate, and children 4 and under eat FREE.

The funds raised at this event enable the Murphy PTC to provide busing for field trips, teacher allowances and educational materials for students.

This is a community, event so please help support the school. All of the proceeds will directly benefit our children. If you have any questions, please contact Kathryn Dennis at kathden@gmail.com or Murphy School at 810-538-2345.

Lapeer East Class of 96 reunion

2011-04-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Lapeer East High School Class of ’96 will host its 15-year reunion on Aug. 13 at 7 p.m. at Castle Creek Golf Course in Lum.

Tickets are $40 per person. For more information, please contact Mary Kobylczak -- 810-614-7855 email Spatulaj@yahoo.com, or Mindy Patrick -- 810-724-0567 email dollzdimplez@yahoo.com. Details of the event can be found at http://www.classof1996.myevent.com/.

Deadline extended for Alumni Hall of Honor

2011-04-27T09:24:00.000-04:00

The deadline for nominations for candidates for the sixth annual Lapeer Community Schools Distinguished Alumni Award program has been extended until Friday, May 13.

To be eligible for the award, a person, living or dead, must have graduated from the Lapeer Community Schools at least 10 years ago and be noted in his or her field of endeavor or recognized for expertise and good works.

The person must be considered a role model for youth and demonstrated positive leadership and outstanding achievement, service or contributions to society. Honorees will attend the Distinguished Alumni Induction Ceremony this fall.

The Distinguished Alumni Award program is a coordinated effort by the District and the Lapeer High School Alumni Association.

Applications are available in District buildings or by calling Mary Linn Voss at (810) 538-1634. The deadline for applications is Friday, May 13.

District-Wide Dodgeball Tourney on tap

2011-04-27T08:31:00.003-04:00

Any Lapeer Community Schools staff members, along with friends and family, who want to dip, duck, dive, or dodge a dodgeball are invited to the District’s first District-Wide Dodgeball Tournament at Zemmer Middle School on Thursday May 12.

Action begins at 4:30 p.m. in the double-elimination tournament. The winner gets district-wide bragging rights.

The event will raise funds for the physical education equipment across the district. The entry fee is $10 per person for the 6-member co-ed teams. Admission is $1.00 a person, with part of proceeds to be donated to a local charity. The Zemmer PTC will be operating the concessions.

Two West teachers' art part of exhibition

2011-04-26T11:30:00.005-04:00

Two West High School art teachers have had their artwork accepted to the MEA Art Acquisitions Purchase Exhibition.

Cory Gutenschwager received a Juror’s Choice Award for his “Figured Ash Vase” that was carved out of laminated wood.
Jeff Bolzman had a clay piece selected for the show entitled, “Hummingbird Teapot #2.”

Both pieces are currently on display at the MEA East Lansing headquarters. You can view them online at www.mea.org/awards/art/index.html.

Matt Wandrie is new LCS Superintendent

2011-04-22T09:05:00.001-04:00

The Lapeer Community Schools have named Matthew Wandrie as the District’s new superintendent.

He will begin the job July 1, replacing six-year veteran Superintendent Debbie Thompson, who is retiring at the end of the current school year.

Wandrie was officially hired by the Board at its April 21 special meeting. He was the Board’s unanimous choice from a list of 43 applicants and six candidates who were selected for interview with the Board.

“I’m eager to begin work in Lapeer, and have been most impressed with the student-centered vision of the Board and District employees,” he said.

“Despite the many economic challenges facing public education, Lapeer has maintained a singular focus on what’s most important – providing exceptional service to our students and families. I hope to honor that legacy while continuing to build a team approach as we chart a course for excellence.”

Wandrie is coming to Lapeer from Dearborn Public Schools, where he has served as the director of human resources. His career in education also includes work as a high school teacher, athletic coach, assistant principal, athletic director and principal.

The Oxford resident is a graduate of Lake Orion High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in history and political science from Alma College. He earned his master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University in educational leadership and holds a K-12 administrative certification. He currently is pursuing his doctorate in education at the University of Michigan.

Wandrie and his wife Christie have three children: Thomas, 10, Jack, 8, and Anna, 6. The new superintendent says he enjoys coaching his children in their various athletic pursuits, spending time with family and friends, boating, fishing and playing guitar.

New YA Café at Rolland-Warner Middle School

2011-04-21T14:12:00.005-04:00

A sizable group of students showed up for class early April 15 for the first-ever YA Café at Rolland-Warner Middle School.

The YA Café is designed as a way to promote literacy for all. The morning began at 8 a.m. as 59 students, 5 parent volunteers, and about 10 staff members showed up in the Rolland-Warner Media Center. 7th grade Social Studies teacher, Mr. Sweeney talked about the book “Red Scarf Girl” as students ate donuts and drank hot cocoa. One lucky winner, 6th grader Courtnee Miller, won a copy of the book.

Students were able to check out copies of the book donated by the Rolland-Warner PTC immediately after the book talk. Rolland-Warner is using the YA Café concept as an initiative to promote literacy for all. The program kicks off next week at Zemmer Middle School.

The next Rolland-Warner YA Café is planned for Friday, May 13th, at 8:00 a.m. in the media center. The featured title will be “The Graveyard Book” by Neil Gaiman. The Rolland-Warner PTC sponsored this YA Café and has agreed to donate the books and refreshments for the events in May and next September.

For a look at more photos from the YA Café at Rolland-Warner, please go to: https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/RWYaCafe#

Looking for scholarhsip opportunities?

2011-04-19T11:24:00.001-04:00

The Lapeer County Community Foundation is extending the deadline for its Ronald C. Warner Scholarship and the Irma Gelhausen Scholarship to Tuesday, May 3, 2011.

The Warner Scholarship Fund, named for long-time local educator Ronald C. Warner, was established in 2008 to assist students in pursuing a career in agriculture and/or education. The student must be a resident of Lapeer County and in his or her third or more year of study with a cumulative GPA of 2.4 or higher. The 2011 award is $1,000.00

The Irma Gelhausen Scholarship, also named for a long-time local educator, is awarded to students pursuing a career in elementary or secondary education. The student must be a resident of Lapeer County, in his or her third or more year of study with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. The 2011 award is $1,000.00

More information and applications can be found at www.lapeercountycommunityfoundation.org or by calling the Lapeer County Community Foundation at (810) 664-0691.

Young author is selected for writer's camp

2011-04-15T10:34:00.005-04:00

Seaton Elementary 4th grader Morgan Pierce will get a chance to attend a special summer writing camp in August hosted by author Jonathan Rand, writer of the popular Michigan Chillers mysteries for young readers.

Morgan wrote a 100-word essay to be selected for Rand's Author's Quest Writing Camp. She was accepted and will be attending the camp from August 11-14. She will stay with other writers for three nights and four days and share her writing and learn new techniques to improve her already wonderful stories.

In her essay, she expressed a desire to learn more about similes and metaphors, which will help her improve her word choice.

Morgan says she is extremely excited to be given this opportunity. She is looking forward to meeting the special guest and the attending the workshop.

Photo caption:
Morgan Pierce and her 4th grade teacher Cindy Morris.

Robotics teams duke it out at state competition

2011-04-14T07:59:00.003-04:00

From the County Press
Teens from the Lapeer area got to mix it up with the big time last weekend, when the country’s most competitive statewide FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics effort held its competition at Eastern Michigan University.

Lapeer County was well-represented with not one, but two, teams at the state competition. Kids from Lapeer East and West High Schools went as members of the Chimeras team, coached by Tony Diodato. Students from Lapeer County Education and Technology Center formed Galak Tech 3535, coached by Jeff Beatley.

It was the first time for either local team to compete at the state level, and Galak Tech’s rookie year as a team.

The Lapeer area teams held their own in the intense competition.

“Both the Chimeras and Galak Tech battled valiantly in their 12 matches sometimes with and sometimes against the powerhouse teams. The 68 teams are randomly mixed in 3 on 3 matches over the 3 day competition,” said Diodato.

Team Galak Tech picked up 79 points overall, placing 56th, and the Chimeras scored 67, placing 62nd.

“There is no doubt that Michigan is the epicenter of high school and professional robotics in the country,” said Diodato. “In no other concurrent regional event in the country could you score 110 points and still lose the match.” He points out that typical scores outside of Michigan are in the 30s.

“The students were very pleased in that they and the robot had done everything possible to win,” said Diodato of the Chimeras.

Although the hometown teams gave it their all and made an impressive showing, the St. Louis national competition remained out of reach this year. A very supportive Grand Blanc team, the Enginerds, placed 11th in the event, racking up the highest score at the state tournament. They’re among the teams headed to the nationals, as are students from Goodrich High School.

The state competitions mark the end of a frenzied season of non-stop thinking and doing that launched in January for the robotics team members.

“Our season has ended but we are ecstatic about our growth and success this year,” said Diodato. “None of it would be possible without the support of the schools, the community, the parents, local business and our generous sponsors.”

Diodato said there are some off-season events in coming months, and that the teams will be launching their fundraising for the next competition right away “in hopes of having the resources to be one of the power-house teams who make it all the way!”

The state competition finals will be broadcast on television on April 16 at 1 p.m. on ABC.

YFU seeks host families

2011-04-13T10:20:00.002-04:00

Youth For Understanding (YFU) is looking for Lapeer host families to host high school exchange students for the 2011-2012 school year.

Host families provide a place to live and three meals a day plus the encouragement, advice and love to help their new family member through a semester or year in a new home.

The students bring their own spending money and health insurance plus the willingness to be a good family member, following family rules and helping out with family responsibilities. YFU local representatives support the students and families to make sure it’s a good experience for all involved. All kinds of families host, with and without children of all ages.

Youth For Understanding is a volunteer-based organization, and they are always looking for volunteers who enjoy working with teens and families to promote intercultural understanding. If you, or someone you know, are interested in being a mentor to an exchange student, they have a place for you!

For more information or to request complete profiles and letters of students, contact Jon McQuinn, YFU Field Director, at (989) 777-4420, or email him at jmcquinn@yfu.org. More information is available on the YFU Web site at www.yfu-usa.org.

'Caught You Reading' launches Book Boosters

2011-04-13T09:01:00.000-04:00

Lapeer area families love to read.

Kids and their parents flocked to Zemmer Middle School in Lapeer April 12 for the launch of the Caught You Reading program and Rob’s Books at Lapeer Community Schools. Many of the more than 250 people who attended were actually caught in the act of reading during the event, as they eagerly perused an irresistible array of books made available by event sponsors.

Rob’s Books is 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 to make it happen.

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.”

The Ericksons hope that through Rob’s Books, “fun, new, relevant to the curriculum, fiction books” will be available to kids.

The Caught You Reading event also kicked off an exciting new program at Lapeer Community Schools to help “grow” our stock of classroom and library books.

It’s an innovative online fundraising program called Book Boosters. In partnership with Perma-Bound Books, the District has created a list of titles our libraries need. Many school districts such as ours have been forced to cut back even on essential purchases such as new books. Book Boosters is one way we can fill that gap, helping to improve reading scores and literacy while fostering the joy of reading!

In contrast to other programs, with Book Boosters, 100% of contributions go toward buying books and other materials from Perma-Bound. Many of these books are in Perma-Bound’s patented binding, guaranteed to last over a lifetime of rough use, with an unconditional replacement guarantee.

Giving is easy. Simply log on to http://www.book-boosters.com/caughtyoureading and contribute any amount (of $10 or greater) to the Caught You Reading campaign (in conjunction with Rob’s Books) through Perma-Bound's secure system by Visa® or MasterCard®.

All proceeds will go directly toward the Book Boosters goal. As an added bonus, you can keep track of our fundraising progress in real time using the Book-O-Meter; the stack of books that gets filled in higher and higher as we get closer to our goal—on the web page.

SPECIAL NOTE: MAKE SURE YOUR STUDENT’S NAME AND SCHOOL IS LISTED IN THE COMMENTS/SPECIAL REQUESTS SECTION AS PART OF EACH ELECTRONIC DONATION. THIS WILL MAKE YOUR CHILD ELIGIBLE FOR PRIZES AND SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR THEIR PROGRAM PARTICIPATION.

There are no phone calls to make, no items to buy, and no forms for you or your child to fill out. And you can rest easy knowing that ALL of your contribution goes toward books and educational material for Lapeer Community Schools. Please join us to make Book Boosters a success!

Photo courtesy The County Press
Photo captions:
Top: Marilee Greene of Perma-Bound was one of the sponsoring hosts at the April 12 Caught You Reading event at Zemmer Middle School. Kids and adults checked out the books and posters, and many took one home with them.

Bottom: Sixth and seventh graders under the direction of theater arts teacher Amber Dillard entertained students and their parents with dramatic storytelling, including such favorites as “The Tortoise and the Hare.”

Zemmer hosts county spelling bee

2011-04-04T09:21:00.002-04:00

Zemmer Middle School played host for this year's Lapeer County Spelling Bee on March 30 as a total of 32 students from elementary and middle schools across the county competed for the title of spelling bee champion.

The competition lasted for 27 rounds before Almont seventh grader Emily Levy took first place. Niquole Caringi from North Branch Middle School took second place. The two girls went 17 rounds just between the two of them before Levy finally won. The winning word that clenched the title for Levy was “belligerent.”

Other winners were third place Alexis Caringi from Ruth Fox Elementary, fourth place Brittany Gray from North Branch Middle School and fifth place Cole Silva from Maple Grove Elementary. All five winning students received medals in honor of their achievement.

Photo by JACOB HUNSANGER
Photo caption:
Winners of the Lapeer County Spelling Bee were (left to right): first place Emily Levy of Almont Middle School, second place Niquole Caringi of North Branch Middle School, third place Alexis Caringi of Ruth Fox Elementary, fourth place Brittany Gray of North Branch Middle School and fifth place Cole Silva of Maple Grove Elementary.

School year extended

2011-04-01T13:41:00.002-04:00

The school year will be extended for all students at Lapeer Community Schools because the number of school days that were cancelled this year, for reasons beyond the school district control, exceeded the six days allowed by the state.

The number of days of cancelled instruction were not consistent throughout our 12 buildings and the last day of school for students will not be the same across the district.

In accordance with state regulations, the last day of school for students will be as follows:

Friday, June 10, 2011 – Community High School, East High School

Monday, June 13, 2011 – All Elementary buildings, West High School, Zemmer Middle School

Tuesday, June 14, 2011 – Rolland-Warner Middle School

Please be sure to note these dates and plan accordingly. In order for the district to avoid financial penalties, daily attendance rates in each of the buildings must be maintained.

We appreciate your cooperation as we make adjustments to comply with state mandates regarding student attendance.

Laidlaw to leave school board

2011-04-01T11:58:00.003-04:00

Lapeer Community Schools Board President Bill Laidlaw will resign his school board seat April 21 because he has taken a new job in Nashville, Tenn.

Laidlaw has served on the board since July 2004 and has been the board president since July 2006.

In a letter to the board, Laidlaw said, “It is with a heavy heart that I leave the LCS family … Although I am very excited to begin a new chapter in my life, it is extremely difficult to say farewell to a wonderful group of people that I have worked so closely with.”

“It has indeed been a tremendous honor to serve as your board president, and I am very proud of the level of service we have been able to provide to our students and community through difficult economic times. More challenges lie ahead, but I am confident LCS will provide the very best educational opportunities to its students with the resources it has available.”

The board will begin the process later this month of naming a replacement to fill Laidlaw’s board seat. The new board trustee will be appointed in May to serve the remainder of Laidlaw’s term, which expires in 2012.

2011 Distinguished Educator, Distinguished Service and Outstanding Contributor Awards

2011-04-01T11:52:00.002-04:00

Six employees of the Lapeer Community Schools have been honored for their exemplary service to students and the District with Distinguished Service, Outstanding Contributor and Distinguished Educator awards.

The award winners were announced throughout the District March 31 and the school board acknowledged the awards during its March 31 meeting at Murphy Elementary School.
The Distinguished Service Award recognizes a recipient’s relationship with students and staff, exemplary representation of the District within the community, consistently excellent work performance and integrity and concern for fellow employees.

Distinguished Service Award winner Debbie Thompson began her career in the Lapeer Community Schools in 1974 as a third and fourth grade teacher at Schickler Elementary and for the last six years has served as the Superintendent of the District. In between she has served the district as a Chapter I reading teacher, administrative assistant for staff development, curriculum coordinator, director of curriculum and assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction.

The Outstanding Contributor Award is for those who have demonstrated creativity, innovation and outstanding accomplishments through the development and use of ideas that contribute to improved instruction and/or improved operation and management of the District.

The 2011 Outstanding Contributor Award recipient is Cindy Gillaspy a paraprofessional at Maple Grove Elementary. She was honored for the work she has done for the last six years as a reading coach for first and second graders.

The District also honored four teachers with Distinguished Educator Awards. These awards honor the recipients for their ability to relate and to inspire students, creativity in teaching, genuine concern for students and exemplary dedication and integrity. The recipients of these awards are:

• Cathy Frazee has been a Speech Pathologist with the District for the last 18 years. Prior to that she was a speech pathologist for the Lapeer Intermediate School District for 15 years.

• Mary Ellen Quaine is a Speech Pathologist in the Rolland-Warner Early Childhood wing and is the District’s Project Find Coordinator. She has been with the District for 19 years and has been in education for 31 years.

• Pam Siivola is a second-grade teacher at Elva Lynch Elementary. She has been a teacher at Lynch for 22 years.

• Steve Stearns has been a business teacher at Lapeer East for the last six years and has also taught math, science and physical education classes during his 27 years in the District. He is currently the East boys and girls golf coach and has coached JV and freshman football and baseball and junior high football and basketball. He also taught and coached for five years at Zemmer Junior High School

A committee comprised of one member each from the AFSCME, Central Office Administration, LESP, LSDAA, LTA and SEIU – Cafeteria selects recipients of the Distinguished Service Award and the Outstanding Contributor Award. A committee of eight teachers and three administrators selects recipients of the Distinguished Educator Award. Recipients are selected from nominations made by District staff.

Schickler celebrates student authors

2011-03-31T14:19:00.001-04:00

Each month Schickler Elementary honors 36 students, 6 per grade, as Authors of the Month.

Students receive recognition at our monthly assembly with a certificate and also have their writing piece hung in the hallway outside the office.

When you visit Schickler, please take a moment and read our wonderful authors' writing.

Photo caption:
Schickler Kindergarten student, James Racknor, celebrates his author of the month award by posing for a picture with his mother Tamara Racknor. James and his family are very proud of the award and James’s writing.

Rolland-Warner hosts successful Fine Arts Night

2011-03-31T14:15:00.001-04:00

A crowd of about 250 art lovers were on hand as Rolland-Warner Middle School hosted its annual Fine Arts Night on March 29.

Students offered an evening of band performances, theater performances, art displays and working artists. Continuing a six-year tradition that began at Zemmer Junior High, and now at Rolland-Warner Middle School, students also hosted the Empty Bowls community service event.

Attendees were asked to make a donation of at least $5 for a meal of hot soup served up in 190 bowls crafted by Rolland-Warner art students. A record $1,435 was raised to help the soup kitchen at First Presbyterian Church in Lapeer.

More than 100 students were involved in the Fine Arts Night, including performers in the drama “Sorry, Wrong Number,” musicians in the 6th and 7th grade solo and ensemble, and visual arts students who demonstrated their work as part of the “Art Walk.” Another 40 students volunteered to help out before, during, and after the event.

For a look at photos from the event, visit the District Picasa photo albums at:
https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/RollandWarnerFineArtsNight#

Parent & Child Playgroup

2011-03-31T13:11:00.005-04:00

Free Playgroup
This popular activity for parents/caregivers and children from birth to 5 years old is fun and educational. Children will participate in a story-time, developmentally appropriate games, learn new skills, and enjoy a snack and social time with other children!

Plagroups are scheduled from 10 am to 11:30 am
on Monday, April 11, 18 & May 2, 9, 16, 23.
(Runs for six weeks, no playgroup on April 25)
Mayfield Elementary School
302 Plum Creek Road

If you are interested, please call the Family Literacy Center at 810-664-2737 or email us at ican@readlapeer.org to register for this playgroup as soon as possible.

Robotics team snares a silver medal

2011-03-31T11:02:00.007-04:00

Excerpted from The County Press
The combined Lapeer East and Lapeer West robotics team earned a silver medal as second place district finalists in the March 4-5 FIRST district competition at Kettering University in Flint.

The combined Lapeer East and Lapeer West team, named “The Chimeras” snagged the silver medal as second place district finalists. The Lapeer County Education and Technology Center’s rookie team, GalakTech 3535, battled their way successfully to the semi-final round of the competition, making its mark as a serious contender.

“It was our first competition we ever made it that far,” said Chimeras team mentor Jon Uren of their second place prize. “It was really cool ... to walk out there and get that award.”

Uren confirmed that impressive performance, saying, “They did phenomenal ... They just excelled beyond belief.”

The scene at Kettering University’s field house was chaotic and spirited as 38 teams of teens, their mentors and their robots filled the pit areas. The teams spent the last six weeks designing and building robots that could tote inflatables and place them on pegs high up in the air. They also built mini-bots that could race up a pole.
Team spirit was evident everywhere. The Chimeras wore matching team shirts and sported black and white face paint. The Lapeer West Panther was spotted roaming the stands as well.

Team members were in a constant state of motion as they tweaked their robots in the pits before delivering them to the field of play. Rock music pulsed through building adding to the intense atmosphere. As they took their entries to compete, shouts of “Robot! Robot!” could be heard above the din so people could make way in the crowded pit area.

For each match, robots were placed into competition with robot operators lined up at each end of the field behind a plexiglass wall. The robots then battled it out, placing the inflatables on pegs to form the FIRST logo.

There was no shortage of team spirit as kids, parents and mentors cheered, jumping and up and down, noisily rooting for their robots during the matches. Post-event interviews made it apparent that two days of yelling took its toll.

The Chimeras are barely taking a breath as they prepare to compete again at Skyline High School in Ann Arbor Mar. 25-26 in another district competition, as they vie for a spot in the state and national championships. They are tweaking and upgrading their ‘bots.

“The kids are extremely excited. They really want first. They’re putting all their effort into it. They’re pumped,” said Uren. “We have a good robot with a good strategy. We’re pretty dangerous.” He said he thinks The Chimeras have a good shot at the nationals this year.

The Juggernauts of Pontiac, Killer Bees from Auburn Hills and T.O.R.C. from Oxford won the district competition. Metal & Soul of Capac won the Chairman’s Award, qualifying the team for state finals. Along with The Chimeras, the Martians of Goodrich and the Dragons of Swartz Creek earned silver medals as second place district finalists.

Photos by Nancy Elliott
Photo caption
Chimeras coach Tony Diodato and team members from Lapeer East and Lapeer West tweak their robot during pit time.

East's Tomczyk signs with Siena Heights

2011-03-30T11:58:00.005-04:00

Lapeer East Senior Clayton Tomczyk has signed a letter of intent to play soccer at Siena Heights University in Adrian this fall.

Tomczyk is a 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-League, and 1st Team All-District Player at Lapeer East. The 6-foot, 170-pound midfielder also plays for the TNT dynamite U18 club team. Clayton's sister, Kristen Tomczyk, a 2009 East grad, is also playing college soccer at Saginaw Valley State University.

“I chose Siena Heights for numerous reason, Tomczyk said. “First, the school has a solid Liberal Arts program that will allow me to study pre-pharmacy. Second, I was looking for a soccer program that felt right for me. I liked the family atmosphere, and the coaches and players were very friendly and welcoming.

“I hope to come in and contribute to the team right away. I would like to send out a special thanks to my family and coaches Joe Allen, Mark Burke, and Chad Kenny who have helped me develop as a player and person over the years.”

Siena Hieghts Coach Aldo Zid said, “The men’s soccer program at SHU is very excited to have a student-athlete of Clayton’s caliber join our soccer family. His ability in class and on the field will draw attention from our staff and faculty as well as our opponents.”

Spring Break -- April 4-8, 2011

2011-03-30T11:05:00.002-04:00

Schools will be closed from April 4-8 for Spring Break.

Office hours for the Lapeer Community Schools Administraiton and Services Center during the spring break period will be 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

School will resume on Monday, April 11, 2011.

Talented students focus on movie-making

2011-03-30T10:19:00.011-04:00

The theme this year is “Lights, Camera, Action!” for more than 50 Talented and Gifted (TAG) students in 2nd through fifth grades in Lapeer Community Schools.

The group gathered for its second outing of the year in the Media Center at Zemmer Middle School in late February for a day of movie-making. TAG students are selected based on exceptional strengths in academic areas and teacher recommendation. The District TAG Advisory Board puts together an all-day event each trimester.

The goal behind these all-day events is to allow these students to collaborate
and socialize with like-minded peers. The TAG Advisory Board is made up of interested teachers from each building, as well as an Art teacher, some Technology teachers and some District administrative staffers.

In the first trimester session in November, students learned documentary film-making. They conducted their interviews and made a mini-documentary using Windows Movie Maker. The students then saved the documentaries on “Flash Drives” purchased with TAG funds.

The second trimester project in February involved short, animated fantasy films. Students scripted, created background sets and shot their animated films using digital cameras. They then edited the movies on computers in the Zemmer Middle School media center.

The third trimester activities will include a premiere of all of the student films.

For a look at photos from the most recent movie-making session, visit https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/TalentedMovieMakersGatherAtZemmer#

Future Problem Solvers bring back trophies

2011-03-29T11:40:00.004-04:00

Students from 14 teams from Lapeer Community Schools qualified 53 students for the Michigan Future Problem Solving State Bowl, March 26 and 27 at Clarkston Junior High School.

The teams represented Lapeer East High School, Zemmer and Rolland-Warner middle schools and Seaton, Lynch and Turrill elementary schools.

Five of those teams took home trophies for their presentations at the State Bowl, which is the culmination of a year-long program where students are taught to creatively seek, attack, and solve problems related to projections into the future.

These students had been hard at work on their problem-solving skills since the beginning of October, meeting after school once a week. An estimated 1,000 Michigan students worked on three problems during the 2010 - 2011 school year – Healthy Living, Air Transportation, and Genetic Testing – which were scored and critiqued by trained evaluators.

A total of 93 of Michigan FPS teams across three grade divisions (4-6, 7-9, and 10-12) were invited to participate in the State Bowl. While teams knew the general topic of this year’s Bowl – Water Quality – they did not know the specific nature of the problem they attempted to solve until the Bowl began.

One junior team which included Sarah Ridenour (Rolland-Warner MS 6th grade), Jacob Schlaud (Zemmer MS 6th grade), Ben Mitchell and Nathan Carr (Seaton ES 5th grade) took 4th place in the state in writing their 11-page booklet. That was just two places away from qualifying for the International Bowl in the junior division.

Two teams made it to the semi-final round, a junior team of 5th graders from Turrill, including Jullian Felton, Nathan Jasper, Kane Sweet, and Zach Bergstrom, and a middle team that included East 9th grader Nicole Romolino, Rolland-Warner 7th grader Zach Fritz, Zemmer 8th grader Alycia Mausolf and Zemmer 7th grader Alexis Mosher.

Two junior teams also had success in the presentation of their action plan. Taking a second in their presentation were Zemmer 6th graders Greg Schabel, James Felton and Steven Romolino and Seaton 5th grader Leah Bentley. Taking a third place were Zemmer 6th graders Olivia Card and Brooklyn Withey and Seaton 5th graders Pierce Logan and Chad Buike.

The Lapeer teams’ coach, Steve Larzelere-Kellermann, was named state FPS coach of the year.

Lapeer Community Schools can be proud of the showing our students had at the event.

Art Meets Science at Lapeer's Gallery 194

2011-03-29T10:15:00.006-04:00

Gallery 194 in downtown Lapeer brings together both sides of the brain with BioArtography: Where art meets science opening March 30 and running through April. This unique exhibit features the dramatic and beautiful mages of cell structures in the body provided by lab research of the University of Michigan’s Center for Organogenesis.

On Wednesday, April 13, at 6 pm Deborah L. Gumucio, U of M Professor of Cell & Developmental Biology and Computational Medicine & Bioinformatics, will provide an exhibit tour with anecdotes about the artwork and research, which is free and open to the public.

University researchers united from a variety of disciplines at the center use cutting-edge advances in microscopic imaging technology to analyze cellular activity by viewing transparent tissue samples stained to identify specific cellular components. Gumucio says imaging is always in the forefront in order to observe the morphology of the cells, which come to life in vibrant color by being exposed to these stains. Gumucio explains that through this process “…right away we start seeing the artistic side of things. If you look closely at any tissue you cannot help but be thrilled by the way the cell looks. It’s so symmetric and colorful. The forms and shapes are beautiful.”

Over sixty million people are affected by organ damage and organ related diseases each year. The mission of the Center for Organogenesis is to design new and effective strategies to treat disease and repair damaged organs by studying organ formation, function and disease. The artistic inspiration that Gumucio described brought about BioArtography, a fundraiser for their graduate and post-graduate training program juried by professors from the Biology and Art Departments annually. Contributors submit artwork along with narratives in lay language explaining form, function and application of their research from labs across the United States and proceeds go directly to the center’s training program.

“I believe this is BioArtography’s first gallery exhibit, and we are happy to host. We hope to make information about scientific advances accessible through these compelling abstract images here in Lapeer County by exposing the art behind science,” says Gallery 194 Director Carolyn Manley McCarter. “This artwork encourages interaction; it makes biological research inviting to those of us who might otherwise be intimidated by it.”

Gallery 194, located at the corner of Court and West Nepessing Streets in downtown Lapeer next to the historic Pix Theater, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm. Admission is always free and open to the public. For more information log onto www.gallery194.com or call 810-667-1495.

County Spelling Bee rescheduled

2011-03-28T15:00:00.000-04:00

Bad weather and roads have pushed back the date for the 2011 Lapeer County Spelling Bee.

The new date is Wednesday, March 30, at 6:30 p.m. at Zemmer Middle School, 1920 Oregon Street, Lapeer.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. for registration of students.

For further information contact Dawn Mosher at dmosher@lcisd.k12.mi.us or Julie Rogers jrogers@lcisd.k12.mi.us.

Vandalism to buses closes schools

2011-03-28T06:25:00.002-04:00

Lapeer Community Schools are closed today, Monday, March 28, because of vandalism of the school bus fleet.

To provide some further information about the vandalism to the buses, here are the facts at this time:

The valve stems were loosened and the air was let out of both front tires of more than 50 school buses.

Lapeer City Police are investigating.

No further damage was done to the buses.

It will take most of the day to reset the valve stems and inflate the tires on the 50 buses. It is anticiapted that all buses will be repaired in time for school to take place tomorrow, Tuesday, March 29.

The District bus fleet totals 73 buses. School was canceled today for the more than 6,000 students who attend the three high schools, two middle schools and seven elementaries in the District.

Zemmer holds first honor society induction

2011-03-25T09:04:00.004-04:00

Zemmer Middle School held its first National Junior Honor Society induction ceremony for grades 6-8 on Tuesday, March 22. It was an honor for the 71 students who were recognized before their friends, parents, school staff and administration.

The presentation was conducted in the school’s cafetorium, followed by cake and refreshments for the students and guests.

“We are proud to announce the founding of the Deborah L. Thompson Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society at Zemmer Middle School. The NJHS has a proud tradition behind it, and we are pleased to be able to offer a chapter at our school. Being a member of the NJHS is a privilege for all students that meet the criteria for membership,” said Laurie Solack, a sixth grade science teacher and chapter adviser of the Zemmer NJHS.

The local chapter at Zemmer was named in honor of Lapeer Community Schools Superintendent Debbie Thompson, who is retiring at the conclusion of this school year. Present at the ceremony, Thompson addressed the students.

“These are the kind of honors that are fun to attend,” said Thompson. “This is a great day for all the students and their families. It’s an honor to be here and to have the chapter named after me.”

Membership in the chapter is an honor bestowed upon deserving students by the faculty, and is based on the criteria of scholarship, service, leadership, citizenship, and character.

To be considered for the Zemmer NJHS, students need to have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher out of 4.0. All seventh and eighth grade students and second trimester sixth grade students are eligible.

Scholastic achievement alone does not automatically guarantee acceptance as a member.
“We are very excited and honored to be able to offer this opportunity to our students. We look forward to all the continued service and leadership that NJHS students will bring to both Zemmer Middle School and the community of Lapeer,” said Solack.

NJHS officers for 2011 at Zemmer are: Scott Hilgendorf, president; Victoria Roush, vice president; Randy Frack, treasurer; Shawn Deverell, secretary; and Whitney Roemer, historian.

The 2011 Zemmer Middle School inductees included:
Sixth Grade: Lauren Barber, Bradley Birkle, Levi Bleau, Megan Bopra, Derek Buike, Victoria Carbone, Olivia Card, Brendan Dunavant, Carson Ellis, James Felton, Allyssa Fenslau, Matthew Garcia, Paul Gregor, Abigail Horning, Ariana Iloncai, Kaytlin Kabelman, Kimberly Kuligowski, Alyssa Laidler, Emily Lewis, Anna Lowe, Shelby Metzger, Logan Morys, Kendra Newman, Caitlin Nykamp, Hope O’Neill, Gregory Orth, Ryan Rogers, Steven Romolino, Drew Rubick, Greggory Schabel, Joseph Schunk, Destyni Stone, Baylee Thompson, Isabella Tindall, Victoria Tripp, Alicia Wagner and Brooklyn Withey.
Seventh Grade: Hannah Anderson, Noah Bindschatel, Alicia Birkenhauer, Mallory Brooks, Trevor Bruce, Allison Ciak, Megan Clemens, Mickey Coulter, Ginger Eastman, Scott Hilgendorf, Allison Johnson, Sydnie Jostock, Kayla Koryciak, Faith Kruger, Emily Lass, Rylei McAllister, Manon McCullough, Victoria Roush, Matthew Schneider, Hannah Sornig.
Eighth Grade: Amie Barker, Julia Borowicz, Hunter Conzelmann, Shawn Deverell, Randy Frack, Alexa Hill, Alycia Kigar, Garrett Knowlton, Leah Komisak, Sydney Maggs, MacKenzie Putnam, Meriah Putnam, Whitney Roemer and Shelby Smith.

Photo by Jeff Hogan
Photo caption:
Superintendent Debbie Thompson, for whom the Zemmer Middle School’s new National Junior Honor Society chapter is named, addressed the 2010-2011 inductees at a ceremony Tuesday evening.

R-W Fine Arts Night March 29

2011-03-25T08:57:00.004-04:00

On Tuesday, March 29th, Rolland-Warner Middle School will be holding its annual Fine Arts Night.

From 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. students will offer a night of band performances, theater performances, art displays and working artists.

Along with that, for the past six years at Zemmer Junior High and now at Rolland-Warner Middle School, students will once again be hosting a community service event called Empty Bowls. The premise of this project is simple. Art students have been busy making ceramic bowls in class. These bowls will be used on March 29th to serve a meal of soup and bread to anyone who attends. Everyone who comes will be asked to make a donation of at least $5 per person in exchange for the meal and a bowl created by one of our students.

All money collected this year will be given to the soup kitchen at the First Presbyterian Church in Lapeer.

The Fine Arts Department hopes that everyone can attend this evening of events in support of our students and our community.

Schedule of events:
5:00 – 7:30 Art walk including art displays and demonstrating artists (in the hallways)
5:00 – 7:00 Empty Bowls (in the cafetorium)
5:30 – 6:30 Band solo and ensembles (in the band room)
7:00-7:30 Drama club performs (in the cafetorium)

Three Governor’s Exhibit artists featured at reception

2011-03-24T12:40:00.005-04:00

The Governor's Art Show reception has been rescheduled for Friday night, March 25, from 6:30 to 7:30 in the Lapeer West Library.

The show honors students from both East and West High schools. In addition to featuring work by 2010 Governor’s Exhibit artists, including Hillary Davlin of Lapeer East and Cheryse Burns and Rachel Gillotte of Lapeer West, the works of about 30 students from both West and East will be on display.

The display will exhibit several works which have been or will be in other art competitions this year.

West art teacher Nancy Barry notes: "Come and see this wonderful work. You will see why our art program is so well respected."

Mrs. Barry and East art teacher Deb Helbig are co-hosting the reception.

Also on display will be the works of five artists – Adrianna Allen, Karley Bauroth, Catherine Wonders and Rebecca Korleski of West and Adam Porter of East -– who are among the top 100 student artists in the state for this year who will display their works at the Michigan Youth Arts Festival in May at WMU.

Work by Adrianna Allen also has been selected to be part of the 2011-12 Governor's Traveling Exhibit.

Photos of art work include that of Hillary Davlin (top) of Lapeer East and Cheryse Burns (middle) and Rachel Gillotte (bottom) of Lapeer West.

Schwan's Fundraiser at Rolland-Warner

2011-03-24T08:52:00.000-04:00

The Schwan's Fundraiser at Rolland-Warner Middle School wraps up Monday, March 28.

Orders can be turned in at the R-W school office between now and Monday. The Schwan's Truck will be at the school for order pick-up on Friday, April 1st.

This is a great opportunity to support the school while enjoying the well-known quality of Schwan's.

Nominees sought for Alumni Hall of Honor

2011-03-21T11:17:00.001-04:00

Do you know a Lapeer Community Schools high school alumnus worthy of induction in the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Honor?

Nominations for candidates for the sixth annual Lapeer Community Schools Distinguished Alumni Award program are being accepted for the fall induction program.

The Distinguished Alumni Award program is a coordinated effort by the District and the Lapeer High School Alumni Association.

To be eligible for the award, a person, living or dead, must have graduated from the Lapeer Community Schools at least 10 years ago and be noted in his or her field of endeavor or recognized for expertise and good works.

The person must be considered a role model for youth and demonstrated positive leadership and outstanding achievement, service or contributions to society. Honorees will attend the Distinguished Alumni Induction Ceremony this fall.

Applications are available in District buildings or by calling Mary Linn Voss at (810) 538-1634. Deadline for applications is Friday, April 29.

West, Rolland-Warner choirs are 'excellent'

2011-03-20T10:59:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, March 9th, the choirs at Lapeer West High School and Rolland-Warner Middle School attended the annual district choir festival.

Lapeer West took two choirs, Treble Chorus and Mixed Chorus. Both choirs from West scored "excellent" ratings allowing them to compete in the State Choir Festival on May 3-4th. This is the third straight year that Mr. Thomas Kaiser's choirs earned this honor.

Both choirs are extremely excited to be nominated and to compete in May. Last year, Lapeer West took two choirs to state festival, with one earning an excellent rating. "This year we will try and match last year's results and earn ourselves another plaque to add to the choir room wall." said Kaiser.

The Rolland-Warner choirs also attended the event and earned "excellent" ratings as well. This was the first year that the school has attended.

The choir, made up of 55 seventh and eighth graders, are headed to state festival. This year's Junior High festival will be held May 19th at Central Michigan University.

"I am happy that my choirs did so well yet again. They worked hard to earn excellent ratings, and it is just another achievement for all of my kids"

Parent volunteers needed

2011-03-20T10:30:00.000-04:00

Rolland-Warner Middle School is looking for parent volunteers to help out with serving hot cocoa and donuts on Friday, April 15th, from 7:45-9:00 am.

The school will host its first YA Café (Young Adult Literature booktalk) with guest book-talker Mr. Sweeney, who will be talking about the book “Red Scarf Girl. “

Any parent interested in helping out with this event is asked to please contact Mrs. Taylor jtaylor@lapeerschools.org.

All middle school students are welcome to attend. Tickets will be available April 11th -14th free of charge to any interested students.

Seaton Elementary remains open for 2011-12

2011-03-18T12:01:00.001-04:00

The Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education has decided to continue to operate Seaton Elementary School for the 2011-12 school year.

The Board voted Thursday evening to keep the school open during the next school year, 2011-12.

In its resolution, the board stated the building will close at the end of the 2011-12 school year unless the enrollment at Seaton is at least 300 students as of February 2012, or the district-wide K-5 enrollment on February 1, 2012 is at least 2,400, or a revised facility master plan is developed for the District.

The school, located on Coldwater Road in Oregon Township, has a current enrollment of 288 students in grades Early 5 through 5th grade.

Wandrie is finalist for Superintendent

2011-03-18T11:40:00.001-04:00

The Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education on Thursday evening voted unanimously to advance Matthew Wandrie as a candidate for superintendent.

The board will schedule a visit to his home district, the Dearborn Public Schools, and has authorized the Personnel Committee to pursue a contract with him.

Wandrie was among more than 40 applicants for the superintendent position. He lives in the Oxford area and is currently the director of human resources at Dearborn Public Schools.

Superintendent Debbie Thompson will be retiring at the end of the current school year in June, after serving as LCS Superintendent for the last six years.

Second graders help save endangered rhinos

2011-03-17T08:57:00.012-04:00

From the County Press
Nancy Lamphere’s second grade class at Mayfield Elementary School presented $175 to Ruth Ann Prey, a retired school teacher, Monday morning (March 14). The money, raised entirely by the students, will be sent to an animal sanctuary in Africa that helps rescue endangered black rhinoceroses.

Prey gave a guest lecture to the second grade class in late February about the black rhinoceros, whose population has decreased dramatically in the past few decades. While tens of thousands of black rhinos thrived as recently as 1970, recent research suggests that as few as approximately 4,000 lack rhinos are alive today.

The rapid decline in population is mostly due to poachers who hunt the rhinos for their horns, which are then sold as trophies or ground into a powder used in pseudo-medical practices as a cure-all. Black rhinos are currently classified as “critically endangered” by the IUCN.

After the presentation, the second grade students decided they wanted to do something to help. In particular, second grader Ella Coulter took the cause to heart. Her parents said she spent an entire snow day making posters, writing a letter to other students and their parents and making a collection jar for spare change. “She did it all herself,” said her parents.

Thanks to Ella and the rest of the students at Mayfield Elementary, a total of $175 was raised. Prey returned to the school Monday to accept the money and thank the students for their efforts. “I think it’s really important.... I love animals,” said Ella.

Photos by JACOB HUNSANGER
Photo captions:
Above, Ruth Ann Prey, a retired Lapeer teacher, talks to the second grade class at Mayfield Elementary School and applauds them for their hard work raising money. To the left, student Ella Coulter shows off the collection jar she made. The students used the jar to collect spare change from parents and students in other classrooms. On the right is the letter Ella wrote to help with the fundraising efforts.

East's Burke signs to play at Concordia

2011-03-17T08:49:00.004-04:00

From the County Press
A Lapeer East Eagle will become a Cardinal in the fall as senior Jacob Burke signed his national letter of intent to play football at Concordia University.

Burke will play wide receiver at the next level in the Pistol Spread Option offense, which has four wide receivers on the field at all times. Though the offense is relatively new, the coaching staff at Concordia believes they can put Burke in position to make plays with the ball in his hands and believes he is a perfect fit for a student-athlete at Concordia.

The senior also played in the defensive backfield for the Eagles on defense and was a part of the basketball team. Burke chose Concordia over other schools that included Albion College, Adrian College and Siena Heights University.

He selected Concordia over the other schools because he liked the campus. He believes his biggest challenge as he moves on to college athletics will be preparing for the better competition he will face and how much time football will consume in college.

The intended communications major is excited about meeting his new teammates and facing new competition at his position in a bid for playing time.

Lapeer East coach Jake Weingartz said he believes Burke will have no problems translating his game to the collegiate level. “Jake has great athleticism and he is an overall playmaker on the field. He made a lot of plays for us this season. He was a big reason we were as successful as we were this season,” Weingartz said.

“He will be a very productive wide receiver in college,” Weingartz added. “He will have to get in the weight room and continue to get bigger, faster and stronger, but there is no reason he won’t have a successful four years.”

Photo by Eric Hohenthaner

Photo Caption:
Lapeer East senior Jacob Burke signs his letter of intent with Concordia University as he is surrounded by his parents and Concordia coaches.

Mayfield 2nd graders perform "Ugly Duckling"

2011-03-13T12:54:00.001-04:00

Mrs. Lamphere’s 2nd grade class at Mayfield Elementary will perform "Ugly Duckling" (a mini musical) for students March 16th at 2:00 p.m. and for the public March 17th at 6:00 p.m. at Mayfield Elementary located at 302 Plum Creek Road, Lapeer.

Mrs. Lamphere’s annual play is always a treat for the students and their audience. Come enjoy a delightful cast of singing second graders.

Superintendent finalists selected

2011-03-11T16:14:00.001-05:00

The Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education has selected two finalists in its selection process to name a new superintendent for the District.

The finalists are Bethany Rayl, currently acting superintendent and assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction at Clio Area Schools, and Matthew Wandrie, currently director of human resources at Dearborn Public Schools.

The board narrowed the field of candidates from more than 40 applicants to six for the first round of interviews and completed the second round of interviews with three candidates on Thursday, March 10.

It is anticipated that the new superintendent will begin working for the District on July 1, replacing current Superintendent Debbie Thompson who is retiring after serving the district for the last six years as its superintendent.

Bands capture honors at Festival

2011-03-09T12:44:00.001-05:00

On February 25, 26 and March 4th , bands from Rolland-Warner, Zemmer, Lapeer East and Lapeer West participated in MSBOA District Band Festival.

More than 350 band students participated, and each band came home with recognition for outstanding performance and musicianship.

Five bands also qualified for State Band Festival by receiving an overall rating of a 1, which is the highest rating a band can receive at this event.

The Lapeer Community Schools bands all had a tremendous showing of parents at each of the performances to show support for students. The band students represented the District at the highest level and should be commended for their outstanding achievement.

Book drive aids FLC

2011-03-09T11:32:00.004-05:00

Donations of new or gently used books will be collected at Murphy Elementary School between March 14th and March 18th as a school project to help the Family Literacy Center.

Books collected during the drive will be donated to FLC. The Family Literacy Center is a local non-profit organization that helps adults learn or improve their reading and assists school-age children and their parents to improve reading and literacy.

“The books can be for children or adults, fiction or non-fiction, but should be in good condition. We are especially looking for children’s chapter books,” said Lisa Schultz, a parent volunteer who is coordinating the drive. “We invite the community to support this worthy cause and drop your spare books off at the Murphy Elementary school office during the week of March 14th to March 18th,” Schultz said.

For further information on the Family Literacy Center go to www.readlapeer.org. For additional information on the book drive call Schultz at 810-797-5537.

Student art on display

2011-03-09T11:25:00.004-05:00

Gallery 194 is hosting an art show featuring student art from students at Lapeer middle schools and high schools.

Stop by the gallery to see how talented these young students are at creating both 2- and 3-dimensional pieces.

The show is now open and will run until Saturday, March 19. A special student artist reception will take place from noon until 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 12.

Everyone is invited to meet the artists and to see their work, or to just stop by the gallery any time during normal business hours. Art from many other districts also will be on display at this special show (grades K-8).

Students of teachers Deb Helbig (East) and Jeff Bolzman and Nancy Barry (West) have work in the show which will go on to state competition this weekend.

The middle school artist are students of art teachers Marty Norton at Zemmer Middle School and Lisa Reinertat Rolland-Warner Middle School.

Many thanks to the folks at Gallery 194 for their continued support to the arts in Lapeer.

Zumba Fundraiser for Project Graduation

2011-03-09T10:19:00.003-05:00

Lapeer East Project Graduation will host a Zumba Fundraiser on Friday, March 18th, beginning at 7 p.m. at Maple Grove Elementary School.

Pre tickets are available. Call Lisa at 810-627-9426 or email lmar925@charter.net

Cost is $6 per ticket in advance. $8 at the door.

TurrillMom 2 Mom Sale March 12

2011-03-07T10:34:00.000-05:00

The Turrill Elementary PTC will host a Mom 2 Mom Sale on Saturday, March 12, from 8:30 am – 1:00 pm.

If you are interested in renting a table, please contact: Nichole Hayden nhayden@lapeerschools.org or (810)614-9438.

Table rental costs are $20.00 for an 8’ table, $10.00 for 1 additional 8’ table, $25.00 for a cafeteria table, $5.00 for rack space and $1.00 for large items.

The PTC is also accepting donations of toys and clothes. All proceeds from donated items will go to Turrill Elementary!

Donations can be dropped off to Nichole Hayden at Turrill Elementary before March 4.

March is Reading Month

2011-03-02T11:12:00.004-05:00

Students all across the Lapeer Community Schools are putting an added focus on books this month to celebrate Reading Month.

Each school is charting its own course with a theme for this month’s extra focus on reading, from the wonderful tales of Dr. Seuss at Schickler to the eyes to the skies and the wonders of outer space at Mayfield.

At Lynch the theme is Reading Builds Character, and at Seaton the students have a decidedly automotive focus as they “track” their selections as they race into reading.

Many activities are underway across the District to help focus students and families on the importance of READING.

There is ample research that tells us over and over again that the best way to improve a child's ability to read is to read and be read to. Parents are being asked to help keep track of the minutes their children are reading, to help them participate in the events. Every child will be a winner.

Photo captions:Mayfield teachers garbed as white-suited astronauts offered the challenge to their students for their out-of-this-world focus on reading.

Schickler students were in for a wonderful treat at lunch on Wednesday, March 2, as they celebrated the birthday of Dr. Seuss with some personalized cake created by Jill McLaughlin from the food service department.

Seaton 2nd grader collecting school supplies for Haiti

2011-03-01T13:47:00.002-05:00

When he learned his mom and dad would be going to Haiti in April to help out in the town of Desalines, he wanted to do his part, so Seaton 2nd grader Judson Page decided to collect school supplies to send along to school kids in the hurricane-ravaged country.

He began his project in early February and decided to collect pencils, pens, notebooks and rulers to send along to school children in Desalines. The collection also includes some other practical items such as jump ropes, barrettes, bouncy balls, jacks and small model cars.

His fellow students chipped in, and by the end of the month he had overflowed the box that sits in the Seaton Elementary office. He says he thinks his total so far tops 85 pounds.

Judson’s efforts will continue through Friday March 4, and he’s looking for as many school supplies and small toys that he can send along to students in Desalinesi.

To make a donation of any of the items, you can drop them off at Seaton Elementary or leave a message for Judson’s parents, Kelli and Gene Page, at the Lapeer Free Methodist Church at 810-664-3393.

To learn more about the Haiti mission trip, visit http://haititrip.weebly.com.

Student art work on display at Gallery 194

2011-02-25T10:22:00.006-05:00

The artwork of 20 middle and high school students from Lapeer Community Schools are currently on display at Gallery 194 in downtown Lapeer as part of the annual Michigan Art Education Association exhibit that runs through March 5.

The work of the artists includes a variety of media, including dry-point etching, prismacolors, pencil, oils, acrylics, tempera, fabric and clay.

The exhibit includes art work from nearly 70 students in Lapeer and Genesee counties. Winners from this regional exhibit will advance to judging in Lansing for statewide recognition. Winning artwork at the state level is displayed at several venues and in state offices throughout the Lansing area.

LCS exhibiting student artists at Gallery 194 include:

Adrianna Allen, Lapeer West 10th grade, “My Escape” conte pencils.
Karley Bauroth, Lapeer West, 11th grade, “Bonita Alta,” clay.
Kaitlyn Becker, Lapeer West, 11th grade, “Calla Lilies,” clay.
Eric Birkle, Lapeer West 12th grade, “Olde Time Machine,” prismacolor pencils.
Cheryse Burns, Lapeer West, 12th grade, “Three Siblings,” prismacolors.
Angelique Clark, Lapeer West, 12th grade, “Rainbow Rich,” clay.
Courtney Gilbert, Lapeer West 12th grade, “I Ride, Therefore I Am,” pencil.
Courtney Lang, Lapeer East 12th grade, “Sacre-Coeur,” dry-point etching.
Zoe Lovelette, Zemmer 8th grade, “Intense Color,” markers.
Amelia Meerschart, Lapeer East 11th grade, “Junk Yard Trucks,” oil pastels.
Jessica Ogles, Lapeer East 11th grade, “Initially Print,” mixed media.
Adam Porter, Lapeer East 12th grade, “Toy Store,” colored pencil.
Miranda Sanborn, Lapeer East 12th grade, “”Self-Portrait,” pencil.
Samantha Schlaud, Zemmer 7th grade, “My Many Emotions,” watercolor print.
Connor Schulte, Rolland-Warner 8th grade, Untitled, acrylic paint.
Madison Skene, Rolland-Warner 6th grade, “Frogs in the Rainforest,” water color.
Brooke Soroka, Rolland-Warner 8th grade, Untitled, embossment.
Lexi Thomas, Rolland-Warner 8th grade, “Spring Fever,” tempera/fabric.
Paige Tigner, Lapeer West 11th grade, “Trapped,” nu pastels.
Catherine Wonders, Lapeer West 12th grade, “Mad Hattress,” clay.

Cramton Center serves as hostage training site

2011-02-24T11:12:00.006-05:00

During a professional development day for staff in mid-January, the Cramton Campus on Lake Nepessing Road, home of Lapeer Community High School, was transformed into a situational training location that was designed to both challenge the preparedness of the building in the case of an emergency situation, as well as allowing for the Special Response Team (SRT) members from the Lapeer County Sheriff Department to conduct valuable situational training in a school setting.

This was the first training of its kind in Lapeer County and involved more than 20 members of local law enforcement. “The scenario was modeled after the recent hostage situation in a high school in Wisconsin,” explained LCHS Principal Kevin Walters. “It was modified to present an opportunity for multiple levels of training and involvement.”

Staff members from LCHS were active participants in the training sessions, which include active shooter, bomb and explosives, barricaded gunman, and hostage situations throughout the day. The day ended with a luncheon and an opportunity to debrief between school staff and law enforcement.

“We would like to acknowledge the outstanding collaboration between the building and the Lapeer County Sheriff Department,” said Walters. He praised the work of Sgt. Andy Engster and Sgt. Don Brady, who worked with Walters to develop the scenario for this training.

Sheriff Ron Kalanquin was present during the training as well. Deputy Dave Hill assisted and is assigned to LCHS by the Sheriff’s Department. Last school year, LCHS enlisted the assistance of the department in providing a critical review of the school’s emergency response and lock-down procedures. Lt. Jim McLain, Sgt. Engster, Sgt. Brady and Deputy Hill from the Sheriff Department assisted in that review as well.

“This is a great example of collaboration between the school and local agencies in the interest of school safety,” Walters noted.

Rolland-Warner 7th graders celebrate Chinese New Year

2011-02-18T10:36:00.013-05:00

It's the Year of the Golden Rabbit in China, and Rolland-Warner 7th graders celebrated the begining of the Chinese year 4708 on Feb. 11 (delayed because of a snow day on Feb. 3 when the new year began).

Rabbit is a lucky sign. Chinese tradition says the Rabbit brings a year in which you can catch your breath and calm your nerves. To gain the greatest benefits from this time, make it a goal to create a safe, peaceful lifestyle, so you will be able to calmly deal with any problem that may arise.

Students made masks and then took part in a dragon dance that filled the hallway and snaked through the media center and office before returning to the classroom.

The celebration was part of the 7th grade study of the Eastern Hemisphere and in particular the study of China.

For a look at more photos from the event, visit the LCS Picasa album at:
https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/RollandWarner7thGradersCelebrateChineseNewYear#

East's Donahue 1st girl soccer player to sign with Div. 1 school

2011-02-17T13:33:00.013-05:00

She will attend Western Michigan University this fall

Lapeer East senior Ariana Donahue became the first-ever girls soccer player from Lapeer Community Schools to get a scholarship from a Division 1 school February 15 when she signed to play for Western Michigan University this fall.

While at East, Donahue’s accomplishments on the soccer field include starting all four years and earning All- Conference, All-District and All-Regional honors the past two seasons while leading the team in scoring.

She also was named to the All-State Second Team in 2010. Having been designated as Team MVP a year ago, Donahue, who plans to major in either psychology or journalism, also managed to lead the Flint Metro League tn 2009-10 with the most goals scored at 28 and notched 63 points as a junior, placing her fifth in the state for scoring after nabbing Honorable Mention All-State accolades as a sophomore.

“This is great. I’ve been playing (soccer) since I was seven, so this was my goal, to get a scholarship from a Division 1 school, so I’m really happy,” said Donahue. “My family has been with me every step of the way, so it’s really nice to have them here today.

“I really liked the campus and the general feel, but the coach (Suzie Grech) was probably the biggest thing for me. I really liked her. She said I would make a big impact (next season). I think she’s going to play me at center/mid, which is the position I’m used to playing, so I’m really looking forward to it.”

Besides friends and family, also enjoying the glow of Donahue’s on-field success was Lapeer East varsity girls soccer coach Chad Kenny, who helped guide the Lady Eagles all the way to the 2010 regional finals against Bloomfield Hills Marian.

“We take pride in all of our kids, but seeing Ariana accomplish what she’s been able to accomplish on the grander scale has definitely been a special thing,” said Kenny.

Having also considered Central Michigan University, Eastern Michigan University, Oakland University and the University of Wisconsin, Donahue’s development was a multi-faceted process that took many forms over time. This includes spending four years with the Michigan Hawks, the fourth-ranked girls soccer club in the nation.

Donahue’s other notable accomplishments include being the first female soccer player from the county to make the state and regional Olympic Development Program team.

She also boasts an impressive academic record, holding a 3.9 GPA and has been a 4-year starter on the Eagles Cross County Team and a four-year scholar athlete. She was named Academic All-State in 2009 and 2010.

Photos by Michael Selecky
Photo captions:
(top) Ariana Donahue signs her letter of intent to attend Western Michigan University flanked by her father, Richard, sister, Brennah, and mother, Susana.

(bottom)Ariana poses with coach Chad Kenny and teammates at Lapeer East.

East's Sawchuk signs to play at Wayne State

2011-02-17T13:26:00.004-05:00

Lapeer East senior Mike Sawchuk on February 10 celebrated his signing of a letter of intent to play football for Wayne State University next year.

Having been projected as a safety by the WSU defensive staff, Sawchuk, who was an All-League defensive back as a junior prior to throwing for 1,201 yards and running for 1,063 yards as a senior, joins a WSU squad that went 9-2 overall in 2010.

“I’ve wanted this ever since I was little,” he told The County Press in an interview. “To finally actually do it is a huge accomplishment. This is the dream, what I’ve always wanted to do” said Sawchuk.

“It means a lot that my family supports me in everything I choose. They’re completely behind me. I’m going to miss my teammates a lot, too. They’re also my family and I’ve grown up playing football with them, so it’ll be really hard leaving them and moving on with a new group of people.”

Having also considered institutions including Grand Valley State University, Ferris State and Michigan Tech, Sawchuk was drawn to the Wayne State campus as much for its academics as anything else, where he plans to become a pre-med major in preparation for an eventual run at medical school.

“This is a great accomplishment for Mike, a real testament to all the hard work he’s put in,” said East football coach Jake Weingartz. “He’s a great kid and is going to a great university and he has an opportunity to play collegiate athletics, which is huge.”

Jim ‘Basketball’ Jones visits Seaton

2011-02-17T12:04:00.014-05:00

Using a broad mix of basketball stunts, humor and common sense, speaker Jim “Basketball” Jones kept the crowd “in the game” February 9 as he visited Seaton Elementary with his motivational message.

His focus for the 1st through 5th grade students was on character, putting forth your best effort, teamwork and listening. With a bit of good-natured ribbing mixed in, his message is for kids to live their dream, which he says often means putting yourself out to help others do their best. Randomly selected students got a chance to test their skills alongside Jones and were rewarded with small gifts for their efforts.

Jones’s upbeat message comes from his own life. He overcame dyslexia as a youngster, honed his skills with basketball tricks and performed as a teen at halftime shows with the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA.

Refusing to let his learning disability define him, he put forth the extra work needed to finally exceed everyone’s expectations and graduate with honors from Bowling Green State University.

Students were captivated as Jones engaged the crowd in his positive message as he ran through his bag of tricks with the basketballs: juggling, dribbling and inspiring balancing acts with the spinning spheres.

His feats included putting his autograph on a basketball with a spinning ball on top of his pen.

The Toledo native has been putting on his show for more than a dozen years, and during that time has visited 3,000 schools in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana.

For a look at addional photos from the day’s events, please visit:
https://picasaweb.google.com/LapeerCS/JimBasketballJonesVisitsSeaton#