Category Archives: Education

Studying the Sky in Night School

Area Education, Education, , , , ,
Students studied stars, planets and meteors
Students studied stars, planets and meteors

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

The clouds cleared enough to see Venus and Jupiter during Night School at Endeavor Elementary on a recent Tuesday.

About 300 first- through fifth-grade students stayed up all night, from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., to watch the wonders of the night sky, study astronomy and participate in star- and planet-themed activities tied to all subjects. “We learned about the planets and the solar system,” said fourth-grader Diego Saldivar.

“The fun thing is being able to stay up until 6 in the morning,” added fourth-grader Luke Elyea. “I drank three cups of hot chocolate.”

Night School, started in 1999 by fourth-grade teacher Susan Stapleton, is held every four or five years to make sure all students have a chance to experience the event during their years at Endeavor.

It takes place during the Leonid meteor shower, which peaked November 18 this year.

School News Network
Tired students got some sleep, but most stayed up all night long

Stapleton grew up in Ludington, where she saw the Northern Lights and many starry nights. Stapleton started Night School because she wanted her students to see twinkling stars, streaking meteors and glowing planets.
“If it even makes them aware of the night sky, we’ve gained something,” she said. “So many of us never look up.”

Hundreds of volunteers worked two-hour shifts during Night School. Students went out to look at the sky, which was too cloudy for much viewing.

A volunteer from James C. Veen Observatory, in Lowell, provided information on planets and constellations,
Students painted Northern Lights with oil pastels; made constellation telescopes, studied constellations in a blow-up planetarium, and played games like Meteor Math.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Repeal Day 2015: Time to Party Like It’s 1933!

Education, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Local History, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

prohibition-drinkers1
By Victoria Mullen

This year marks the 82nd anniversary of Repeal Day. Can you imagine going 13 years without a legal drop of alcohol? I don’t know anybody who can. Well, wait. I can. But I’m a lightweight and also a wet blanket, so you won’t see me getting invited to many parties. Which is why I live with cats.

From 1920, the start of Prohibition, to 1933 when Amendment XXI was ratified (to repeal Amendment XVIII), Americans either had to abstain or become very creative. Creativity ruled. But why Prohibition in the first place? There are a few theories floating around as to why Prohibition was instituted (one of which has to do with nefarious oil dude, John D. Rockefeller, but I leave that for you to explore here).

As Amendment XVIII went into effect on January 17, 1920, Americans could no longer manufacture, sell, or transport intoxicating beverages. Picture this: One day, you’re having a beer with your friends, and the ver51TvOJA4L4Ly next day–poof!–you’re no longer allowed to consume alcohol. What a blow to the American psyche it must have been when Prohibition became part of the Constitution, holding the same status as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the abolition of slavery.

Maybe some people alive today remember Prohibition, but I sure don’t. Still, you can get a taste of that era at American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition, a world exhibition created by the National Constitution Center. At the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) now through January 17, 2016, this exhibition explores the tumultuous years of 1920 to 1933, and why the country went dry in the first place. Prohibition’s advocates said that they wanted to improve the nation’s moral and physical health, and in some ways they succeeded. But the nation also endured a huge rise in corruption, crime and cynicism. By the time Prohibition ended with the ratification of Amendment XXI in 1933, America had become a very different country. Personally, I don’t think the collective psyche ever recovered.

But let’s not worry about that right now. The whole idea here is to have fun and celebrate. There are plenty of engaging community and educational programs to round out the exhibition, so go here to find out what’s happening. The GRPM is hosting special Repeal Day activities: For example, you’ll get to meet the characters who were important in passing the first and only amendment to repeal another amendment ever. (Uh, never say “ever.”) Adults and children are invited to join in on some hands-on activities in the Museum’s Galleria to learn about this “milestone” in our country’s history.

Repeal is a huge deal, folks, so huge that other venues are joining in the celebration. That includes the SpeakEZ Lounge (600 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503). Beginning at 7 pm on December 5, 2015, you’ll time-travel back to the devent_21440803ay Prohibition ended. Savor special appetizers and cocktails as you listen to the River City Jazz Ensemble. They’ll be playing vocal jazz hits and classical instrumental music that was popular during Prohibition. Be sure to wear your favorite 1920s and 1930s attire to immerse yourself in the experience. Cover is $10 and includes snacks.

Repeal Day at the GRPM is Saturday, Dec. 5 from 9 am-5 pm, 272 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Call 616.929.1700 for more information, or visit the website.

Chin Up! It’s the Holidays: A Depressive’s Guide to Surviving the Ho-Ho-Ho

Community Health, Education, Holidays, How-To's,

12-federico-castellon-remorse-1940By Victoria Mullen

 

Does the holiday season weigh heavily upon your tender psyche? Depression get you down? Cold comfort in knowing that there are millions of people like you out there, right? No safety in numbers with this thing.

 

Many familiar with depression will agree: Sunny days are the worst. Yeah, sure, birds are chirping, kids are playing, and in the summer, you can hear the drone of lawnmowers in the distance. But with sunny days come obligations. You’re expected to be productive and enjoy the day. Let’s be real: Birds poop on your car, kids are loud and annoying, and freshly cut grass unleashes your hay fever. Yes, sunny days put a lot of pressure on a person.

 

Conversely, cold, rainy or snowy days are the best because you have a good excuse to stay in bed and cuddle up under the covers with cats sleeping by your feet. But someone has to feed them, and guess what? That someone is you. Only under threat of feline mutiny or family banishment will you venture out to the store to get cat food and holiday gifts, and that’s pure torture because the holiday season brings those awful chipper, happy people out in droves. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to bitch-slap the next beaming face.

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It could be that you have a perfectly fine, supportive family. I know I do. They’re great folks. But in the throes of depression, it’s hard to see or appreciate that. And if you don’t have family or friends close by, the loneliness can be unbearable.

 

Depression is a many-faceted beast, and this article isn’t meant to be a cure-all. What we can offer here are some tips to help get you through the endless drudge of holiday parties, workplace gatherings and caroling, depression be damned. Twenty-five tips, one per day–think of it as a sort of depression advent calendar. If I had the energy, I’d paint a lovely picture for each day. Instead, Federico Castellon has captured the feelings of depression admirably. Learn more about the artist here.

 

  1. Keep it real. Don’t compare your holidays to those portrayed in overly cheerful greeting cards; that’s just not reality. Greeting card companies have to make money somehow, and their business model requires selling never-ending tidings of joy. But you’re smart, and you know better. Life is not a bowl of cherries. And that’s OK.
  2. Do something different. Don’t settle for being a sheep in the herd. Break out from the bahs. Who says you have to make an eight-course dinner for 15 family members? That’s the greeting card industry brainwashing you. Have Thanksgiving at a restaurant instead–yes, let someone else do the cooking. Spend Christmas day at the moviesFederico_Castellon,_Self_Portrait_with_H,_1942. Skip the traditional gift-giving and donate the money to a charity. Screw those greeting cards. What a bunch of hooey!
  3. Reach out to friends and family. People who care about you want to know when you’re having a tough time. Your instinct may be to isolate yourself, but resist the urge to do so. At least keep in touch by phone. A friendly, empathic voice can work wonders. (Admittedly, I have a tough time with this one, but it is highly recommended anyway.)
  4. Life isn’t perfect, and that’s OK. It’s easy to let your imagination run wild, but don’t automatically anticipate disaster. Take the holidays as they come. The greeting card industry has bestowed special powers upon some perfectly ordinary days to make a few fast bucks. It means nothing! Surely you can see through all that. (I’m not being paranoid. Am I? Wait.)
  5. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Now, here’s a cliche for you! But, guess what–it’s good advice. Don’t feel obligated to compete with that idiot down the street. You know the one: Decorations up the wazoo, holiday music blasting at all hours of the day and night. The one whose house sticks out like a sore thumb with all those stinking–er, blinking–lights. Sure, he’s crazy, but don’t let him get to you. (That’s exactly what he wants.) Instead, think of how high his electric bill will be. On another note, so what if you don’t crack open that box of St. Nicholas figurines your grandma left you in her will. Yes, you promised her you’d display them proudly each year. But, guess what? They’re nice and cozy tucked in their box down in thcastellon.maskofthereddeathe basement (or up in the attic), and they won’t mind waiting another year. Seriously.
  6. Help someone less fortunate than you. Maybe your life seems crappy, but just remember that someone always has it worse than you. That is not to discount what you’re feeling, but making a difference in someone else’s life can make you feel better about yourself. It takes your mind off its focus on you.
  7. Don’t stress over seeing Uncle Bob (or other annoying family member). Don’t want to see him (or her)? Then don’t. Just don’t go there. Why put up with the stress of seeing someone you don’t like? Life’s too short. Go to the movies instead.
  8. Ask for help. But be specific. Need help cooking or shopping? Ask a friend or family member. Tell them what sort of help you need. People aren’t mind readers, you know. We’re not that highly evolved yet.
  9. Some things are beyond your control. Do Dad and Uncle Frank always fight over who gets to carve the turkey? Remember, it’s them, not you. First things first: If you can safely take away the sharp fork and carving knife, then do so. Next, go to another room, sit down and breathe deeply. Don’t worry. They’ll work it out. They always do, right? It’s impossible to control every situation or person (nor would you want to). Your own reaction–now that’s something you can control.
  10. Create new family traditions. Maybe finding the pickle in the Christmas tree has reached its expiration date. It’s not fun anymore, is it? If you don’t enjoy the ritual, why keep doing it? ‘Tis the season to create a new one. As an example, my ex-husband and I used to celebrate LEON (NOEL, spelled backwards–we’re clever folk). Worked for us. Tfc-12-the-dark-angelshe kids, not so much. After years of therapy, they’re fine–proof positive that kids can bounce back from just about anything. (Your healthcare insurance may provide coverage for just such an emergency. Read the fine print.)
  11. Celebrate the memory of loved ones. Holidays can be tough when you’re reminded of someone who isn’t around anymore, but think of it as an opportunity to celebrate them in spirit. Toast grandma. Bring her photo with you when you go out to dinner at her favorite restaurant. Prop her photo up against the salt shaker, facing you. She’ll be smiling down upon you, that’s for sure. (Well, at least from across the table.)
  12. Be picky. Don’t get overwhelmed by weeks and weeks of holiday festivities. Think about which parties you really want to attend. You don’t have to go to them all. Postscript: If you haven’t been invited to any parties, throw one for yourself and Puff. Living well is the best revenge. (Besides, who needs those people anyway?)
  13. Leave when you want. If that means stopping in for just a few minutes to say hello, then so be it. Giving yourself permission to leave at any time helps curb the anxiety.Castellon
  14. Safety in numbers. Arrange to arrive and leave with a friend, and that office party won’t seem so utterly awful. Having an ally and an escape plan can make all the difference.
  15. The ‘perfect gift’ is a myth. Don’t stress over finding the best gift ever. If you don’t know what to get someone, get a gift certificate. That’s what those things are for. The greeting card industry got one thing right.
  16. Shop online. One of my all-time favorite sports, shopping online is a godsend for people with depression. You don’t have to fight the crowds or waste time finding a parking spot. Best of all, you don’t have to put up with rude people and loud, smelly toddlers.
  17. Follow thy budget. Know how much you have to spend before starting to shop. And stick to it. Nothing is more depressing than overspending.
  18. Your normal routine is your best friend. Now is not the time to stay out late at parties or pull an all-nighter cooking or wrapping presents. The psyche can be a fragile thing. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Somehow that analogy fits here. I just know it.castellon_hilda_thefloweredhat
  19. Exercise. If you’re like me, then you hate even the thought of exercising. Unfortunately, exercise is often the best way to banish anxiety or depression, at least for a while. Walk instead of driving. Take a few extra laps around the mall (assuming anxiety doesn’t prevent you from getting there). Chase the cats around your apartment. Be creative!
  20. Eat sensibly. Ha! Easier said than done, but it’s worth striving for anyway. All those holiday treats may be tempting, but overloading on sugar won’t help your mood, and you’ll only hate yourself more if you pack on the pounds. Having said that, don’t beat yourself up if you’ve just raided and emptied the cookie jar. Just get back on track tomorrow. Or wait until Lent (assuming you’re Catholic). That’s what Lent is for.
  21. Holiday substances won’t lift your spirits. People over-imbibe during the holidays, but that doesn’t mean you should. Alcohol is itself a depressant and drinking too much will make you feel worse. And it may not be safe if you’re taking antidepressant meds. Just don’t go there. (If you do, certainly don’t drive.)
  22. Sun lamps are golden. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) plagues millions of people during the shorter winter days. Consider getting a sun lamp. It could improve your mood.1
  23. Don’t miss your meds. Do not miss your meds. Do NOT miss your meds. If you’re like me and take antidepressant or bipolar meds–or both–don’t miss doses. Sure, it’s tempting, but that’s just another place you shouldn’t go. (Trust me on this one.) While you’re at it, make sure your refills are up to date, too. Now is not the time to run out.
  24. Have extra sessions with your therapist (if you see one). The holiday season is tough on people. (Now, there’s a “duh” statement, if I ever saw one. But I wrote it, and I stand by it.)
  25. Be kind to yourself. ‘Tis the season we dwell on our imperfections, mistakes, things we’re not proud of. Guess what? You’re human. Cut yourself some slack. Kindness and forgiveness goes a long way. Don’t forget to save some for yourself.

When all else fails, here’s the Suicide Hotline number: 1.800.SUICIDE (1.800.784.2433). I’ve called it myself. That’s what it’s there for.

Images copyright Federico Castellón (1914-1971).

Underage and Homeless: Mortisha Olvera

Citizen Journalism, Education, Local Faces, WKTV Projects, , , ,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOIPNkv74JA

Community Awareness is a show produced at WKTV and hosted by Donna Kidner-Smith. The show acts as a conduit for people in the local community to share their stories. Donna’s latest series focuses on homeless teenagers and how they were able to cope.

Mortisha Olvera was found herself homeless at 17 years old, here is her story. The full interview can be seen in the view above.

Thank you for joining us to share your story.

Thank you Mrs Smith. I appreciate that a lot. I have been wanting this opportunity ever since I was a little girl, to tell my story because I have a really good one, and I would love for my story to help many other children out there. Because what I went through, I don’t want anyone else to go through too.

Mortisha, what is your earliest childhood memory?

When my mom, sister and I went to the park and we were having a really good time. My mom was barbecuing but my dad wasn’t around at the time. We were having a really good family time, and I miss that to this day.

How many sisters do you have?

I have four sisters.

Tell me a little bit about your family set up?

My mom and dad were married. They were together for nine years, but when I was three my father left. I actually just recently got to see him after 17 years! I was scared, I didn’t know what to say. He got to meet my little daughter, and I was happy for that. It was nerve-wracking because I don’t know what to say when I meet new people.

And where has your dad been since then?

He’s been in Florida the entire time.

What brought your father to Michigan?

To come see my 9 month old daughter. That one of the reason I wanted to see him. So he could meet a new member of the family.

So he was seeking a relationship with you?

Yes, he always has, but I’ve been too afraid to reach out and be willing to meet him. I don’t want to get hurt either.

Have you completed High School Mortisha?

I actually have not. I didn’t drop out, I quit in the 11th grade because I was in Comstock but going to school in Ottawa Hills. That was a long distance and very difficult to do.

So you were living in the Comstock Park area and you were enrolled at Ottawa Hills High School?

Yes I was. It was hard to make that transfer every day, and then my mom was also sick at the time. She has been sick almost her whole life, but it got worse and we started living at York Creek.

What do you think about school?

I like school. I like art. I think more kids should go than skip it to do drugs and the whole immaturity thing.

Tell us a little bit about elementary and middle school. What were some of the things that you enjoyed the most in school?

I liked the people. I liked the teachers. I got to know the teachers very well, they were like my friends because I didn’t have many friends in school. The teachers were my friends and they helped me through so much! Without them I wouldn’t have made it through any grades.

When you say they helped you through so much, are you speaking academically or otherwise.

Academically, physically and mentally because I was going through a hard time in those times.

Well then, let’s launch into that if it’s not too personal Mortisha. What were some of the issues that you were contending with, that you needed the teachers’ assistance with.

Well, I was in special ed because I had a really hard time reading and in math. When I was born my umbilical cord wrapped around my brain and the lack of oxygen killed some of my brain cells. I try to fight that because It’s a really hard difficulty to deal with, but I fight through it every day.

Now you mentioned that your mother has been sick most of your life.

Yes, she’s been sick ever since she came out of the womb because she has a hole in her heart, but the doctors never found it until 4 or 5 years ago. It’s been getting bigger too. She’s been doing okay, but she’s been getting worse.

As far as a home, tell us about your home life. Experiences or hobbies that you had. Maybe some activities you did as a family.

Well, my mom was never home because she always worked. She would get up at 5 in the morning and be home at 5 at night. So every day, she only had one day off, she would go to work and come home and relax. She worked as a housekeeper for Heather Hill Care Center for 10 years. She did for 10 years on top of taking care of us at the same time.

What was the dynamic like in your neighborhood? Were they neighbors to watch over you?

No, I was an alone child. My sisters went off and did what they wanted to do. I stayed by myself. I didn’t go around anyone. I’m still that way today. Being around people scares me sometimes. I don’t know what to expect when I see a new person.

What would you say is your number 1 challenge? Being the age that you are, you are now 19 years old, what would you say is your number 1 challenge?

My daughter. She is a blessing because I never thought I could have kids. Being a first time mother, every day is different and I don’t know what to expect. Every day she’s changing. Everyday she’s growing and eating different things. It’s hard because you don’t know what she wants and since she’s only 9 months old she can’t speak. So all she does is run around on her little toesies. I went to he doctor yesterday. She’s 9 months, 20 pounds and 29 inches. So she’s a pretty good, healthy baby.

Is the father involved in her life?

No. I was tired of the abuse. I was tired of the mental abuse. I was tired of always being put down and called names. I was with him for 2 years, and for those 2 years I was going through some major, harsh stuff. For those 2 years I was homeless, pregnant, abused, and raped. I just pray everyday that I don’t have to see him ever again. I’m personally scarred. I have PTSD from this man and I can’t deal with it.

You mentioned that you were homeless. Are you currently homeless?

No, it’s my first place that I’ve ever had that I can call my own. I’ve never had that and I pray to God that I will have it until the end.

May I ask what caused the homelessness?

My mom got evicted from York Creek by the baby daddy because he was causing issues. My mom and my baby sister left to go live with my older sister. I had to get left behind because there wasn’t enough room in the car, but they said if there was enough room in the car I would’ve been taken with them. So, they left and I got left behind. Still, to this day, my mom cries and says she wishes she would’ve taken me that day. When they left I became homeless. I didn’t know where to go or what to do. I was 17 at the time. A little baby in the streets not knowing what to do.

So, you’re left there in the parking lot. What what the first step after that?

To find somewhere to stay. I was worried about when I was going to eat again because I didn’t have food stamps or state ID. I left with nothing.

And where did you go?

I stayed on the street. I stayed in a park, under a tree, hoping that it was not going to rain because it looked a little cloudy that night.

So you went from York Creek in the Comstock Park area to Downtown Grand Rapids area?

Yes, and that’s where I stayed for two years. Then I met this awesome place called Unlimited Alternatives. It is a rehab center, but they took me in. They have washers, dryers, showers, computers, stove, a kitchen, and a food pantry. That place really helped me out when I was homeless. I went there everyday. It was open from 8am to 4pm. So it was a very good time for me to stay warm.

In the evening, when those doors closed, what happened?

I went down to Rosa Parks Circle and I would spend my time there. Or I would go to the library or I would go to GrandLAN, which is a video game place. When those places closed I would find a place to stay in an abandoned apartment. Through two summers, fall, and winters that’s where I stayed. That abandoned apartment.

Were there others there with you? Or were you alone?

It was just me and the baby daddy. We stayed in the abandoned apartment. Just somewhere we could stay warm and put our stuff. Everyday I was always scared because I didn’t want to wake up to guns pointing in my face telling me to get out or getting arrested for trespassing. But I didn’t want to stay outside. I wanted to be safe. So I took my own risk and stayed in the abandoned apartment.

Did your family know you were homeless?

I didn’t inform my family of any of it. I didn’t want them to worry. If my mom has a little bit of stress, it could kill her. I didn’t want my mom or sisters to feel any stress or worry about me. I didn’t want them to feel bad for me. I need to be strong and I don’t need anyone to feel bad, because they need to be strong too.

What are your plans for the future Mortisha? You’re sitting here and you’re 19 years old, you’ve completed the 11th grade, but as you look ahead with the responsibility of a child, what do you envision as of next year?

I’m going to Youth Build which is a place that helps you with your GED. My sister just graduated from there. From her whole process being there, she’s now a certified construction work, she’s a first aid, she got her driver’s license and her GED. That’s what I want to do. I want to become a construction worker, I want to become a first aid, I want to get my driver’s license. That would be something really cool. But then when I get done with school, I want to go into cosmetology for horror films. I love horror films. That’s something I’d love to do. Doing makeup for horror films. Dead skin and blood.

Mortisha, you mentioned a few minutes ago about being homeless, having a baby and having a boyfriend. Walk us through that. That is something that has impacted you and will carry forward through your adult life. Here you are in Grand Rapids, a homeless teenage, tell us about that.

After my mom left when I was 17, I had to find a place to stay. I found different places to stay on different nights. A year and a half after being homeless I found out I was pregnant. Remember, I stayed with my boyfriend for two years. When I found out I was pregnant, I thought that was going to change him and make things better, but it actually made things worse. He constantly told me I should get an abortion and that we weren’t ready, but I’m not going to kill a kid just because I’m not ready and you’re gonna be selfish. I’m going to have this kid and I’m going to do everything I can to make this right. Well, nine months later, here comes my daughter. I had to have a C-section because she got stuck in my pelvic bone. Being a first time mom and never having a C-section was scary.

He would never help me. My boyfriend never helped me with the baby. At that time, I was taking care of two families. The family I was living with had three kids that I was taking care of because the mother didn’t do anything besides sit on her bed and be on Facebook. So I took care of their kids and my newborn baby. My baby daddy didn’t help out with the our baby either because the crying would get to him and he would go insane and not take care of her.

Elaborate on your boyfriend a little bit. You mentioned that he beat you.

Yes, he beat me everyday. When I was 4 months pregnant, he raped me because he was blackout drunk. He told me he didn’t remember, but I told him I did. I wasn’t the one doing drugs or getting blackout drunk. I remember all of it. I was sober for nine months. He constantly called me a liar and denied what he did.

So why did you stick with this guy?

I didn’t know where to go. He said he was homeless before. That’s one thing I can say that he did. He kept me safe, he made sure I ate everyday, and he kept me warm. That’s the only positive thing that happened when I was homeless.

Were you afraid?

I was scared! I was so scared because I didn’t know if I was going to get jumped, raped, or die. Especially during the winter. These past two winters were crazy with all the snow.

So what was the turning point? You found an apartment and had your daughter, but you lived there until that fell apart and you had to get out.

Yeah, after that I stayed in Mel Trotters for three months and from there I found this amazing guy. I never knew a guy as amazing as him existed. He helped me through so much and got me out of situations that I couldn’t get myself out of. I am very blessed that I met this man.

When you look back on your childhood Morticia, what is your saddest memory?

That would have to be when my baby sister was raped. That was the saddest thing because I was in still in school at the time and my sister brought me into the bedroom and said that grandpa is downstairs with Nina doing dirty things. So I went downstairs to the basement and said something and he got off of her. I told Nina to get upstairs and we locked ourselves in the bedroom until my mom got home from work.

Was he your mother’s father?

Yes.

Was this a first time event or something that happened before?

I heard it happened in the past but I had never seen it firsthand. So, when I got home from school and saw it, I was furious. I also felt guilt on myself because I felt I could’ve stopped it.

And then what happened? Did anyone tell on grandpa?

No.

Do you know if anything like that happened again?

No, after a little while my grandpa got really sick. His muscles and bones basically stopped working. He was a lot like a vegetable. So, me and my sisters had to help take care of him. We had to pick him up from the chair and carry him to the potty. I helped take care of this man who hurt my family.

So nobody told your mother what he had done?

No, we all told her. My sister actually took my other sister to a movie to get her out of the house so we could tell our mom one on one.

How did your mother receive that?

She was scared and furious. My grandpa was 70 at the time so she didn’t feel like she could really do anything.

Besides what happened with your grandpa, is there anything you wish didn’t happen with your family?

I don’t know, more than anything I wish my family was back together. I want my family to be back together so bad. Our family is spread out everywhere do to living arrangements. We don’t get to see each other much, but now that I have my own place, my younger sister comes over every now and then to get together. She’s actually coming over today!

You’ve walked us through your plan for the immediate future, and those are all great goals and I hope they workout, but where do you see yourself in 3-5 years?

I see myself running my own horror shop that has makeup and costumes. Something like the Kostume Room, but a little different from that. I’ve also always wanted to run my own gothic, metal bar. That’s something that I really want to do because I’ve never seen one of those in Grand Rapids.

Mortisha, thank you for sharing your story with us today. You have a lot of responsibilities and some lofty goals for yourself. If you keep your nose down and have people around you who encourage you, you’ll be able to reach them all. We wish you nothing but the best!

Fifth-Graders Build, Tinker, Design in STEM Immersion

Area Education, Education, , ,

School News NetworkBy: Erin Albanese – School News Network

The challenge was to build the tallest Eiffel Tower. After they twisted and tied pipe-cleaners, Endeavor and Meadowlawn fifth-graders’ structures stood straight and high.

Natasha Sirrine, a Grand Valley State University School of Engineering graduate student, was impressed. “I’ve never seen four really good ones, ever,” she said, eyeing the colorful towers. “These are fabulous.”

Fifth-grader Melanie Delvalle helped construct the winning tower. “I like engineering because you can build things, and I like creating new things,” she said.

Nearby, Amoria Taylor-Smith tinkered with the gears of a unmanned aerial vehicle, also known as a drone, brought in by Kent ISD STEM consultant Ebiri Nkugbu. The youngster was amazed to learn what the aircraft can do, like take photos of crops up close.

“I want to be what he is,” said Amoria, pointing to Nkugbu. “I think it’s cool that he can build stuff.”

Natasha Sirrine, Grand Valley State University School of Engineering graduate student watches Melanie Delvalle construct a pipe-cleaner Eiffel Tower
Natasha Sirrine, Grand Valley State University School of Engineering graduate student watches Melanie Delvalle construct a pipe-cleaner Eiffel Tower

It was the final of four events hosted to expose Kentwood Public Schools fifth-graders from 10 elementary schools to the world of science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. Through hands-on activities, students got to thinking about jobs in the field, which went way beyond looking through a microscope.

“It’s exciting to see and learn about stuff I never knew before,” said student Vedad Vila. “I kind of want to be a computer engineer.”

Led by Experts in the STEM Field

Endeavor and Meadowlawn students broke into 25-minute sessions hosted by representatives from GVSU, Kent ISD, Hope Network, Open Systems Technologies, Kent Career Tech Center, and architecture and engineering firms Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc. and Progressive AE.

Students spent the morning focused on “seeing, doing and learning,” to become exposed to jobs like scientist, arborist, nutritionist and architect, said Nancy McKenzie, Kentwood Public Schools STEM coordinator.  Last year, McKenzie organized girls-only STEM events because of the under-representation of females in STEM jobs, but this year they were open to all students.

Checking out an unmanned aerial vehicle
Checking out an unmanned aerial vehicle

“It’s planting a seed, giving them a glimpse into the career world, the STEM world,” she said. “Hopefully, during the rest of their years at Kentwood they will continue to hear more about STEM, attend more activities like this, take classes at the high school in engineering and CAD.”

Another goal is skill development. Group work, problem-solving and goal-setting skills translate into what students will need in adulthood.

Jobs of the future — many of which don’t even exist today — are likely to involve technology, said Jeremy Wise, managing consultant for Open Systems Technology, who taught basic programming concepts on cardboard. Students were challenged to teach their “robots” three ways to move on the board.

“Honestly, everything is software-driven, from programming to calculators, to cell phones,” Wise said. “I think the next generation needs to understand how they work and be able to tell them what to do.”

After building his own miniature wooden car during a session led by Joe Phillips, an instructor for KCTC’s Design Lab, student Joseph Amani let it zoom down a ramp to see how far it would go.

School News Network“It can go farther than any other car,” he said. “I think it’s awesome.”

Phillips said his goal was to help students learn design, and how it’s a process of trial and error.

After students tested their cars on the makeshift ramp in the auditorium, he challenged them to make their vehicles even better. That’s what engineers do, he explained.

“Now you can take it back, redesign and rethink how you want to do.”

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Adult Students Look to Education to Help their Children

Area Education, Education, , ,

School News NetworkBy: Erin Albanese – School News Network

Lori Hayes is finishing up math and science courses in the Wyoming Public Schools Adult Education Program to earn her GED. Once in awhile, she has to bring her 10-year-old daughter, Chloe, to class with her.

One day, after listening to a lesson led by teacher Justin Van Etten, Chloe walked up to the white board and correctly finished a math problem. “That’s why I’m doing this,” said Hayes, who has two other daughters, ages 17 and 15. “I didn’t really see how important this is until I saw her up there doing what I was learning. It was inspiring.”

Hayes, 37, is among thousands of adults statewide working to earn GEDs, improving their basic literacy and math skills or learning English in state-funded adult education programs. They are seeking brighter futures, better paying jobs, college degrees and careers. Many, like Hayes, also hope to give their children a better chance at their own dreams.

School News NetworkHayes and Jeremy Showell, also a Wyoming student, served as first-hand voices on the impact of adult education programs and the need for improved investment and resources. They joined fellow students from across the state in addressing legislators and key policymakers during “FamilySpeak: Building Family Literacy Through Adult Education” at the State Capitol in Lansing.

The event was hosted by Michigan’s Children, a nonprofit organization focused on the needs of the most challenged children from birth to adulthood and their families, and the Michigan Association of Community and Adult Education, which works to provide a framework for community education at the local, state and federal levels.

Bob Steeh, president of MACAE, said state aid for adult education was reduced in the 1990s from $80 million to $22 million, forcing many programs to close. Now allocations total about $25 million, and students in state-funded programs, usually run through school districts, have dropped from 80,000 to 29,000 per year. Programs decreased from 175 to 75.

Fewer locations mean many students make long daily treks to get to class.

School News Network“It all equates to how you can access programs. My biggest argument is if we want to curb poverty and change the lives of families, we have to do something about that,” Steeh said.

As the state is pushing to improve third-grade reading proficiency, investment needs to target the entire family, said Michele Corey, vice president of programs for Michigan’s Children. Statewide, 42,000 people ages 18-34 have less than a ninth-grade education.

“There’s a lot of evidence that talks about how connected the kids’ educational success is with their parents’ educational success,” she said.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

The Great American Smokeout can help you Kick the Habit

Community Health, Education, How-To's, Upcoming Events,

Quit-Smoking-CigarettesIt’s not easy to quit smoking. Studies show that cigarettes are more addictive than heroin, and the first three weeks after you quit can be the most difficult. If you stumble along the way to giving up smoking, don’t punish yourself. Just try again.

Now is a great time to kick the habit and celebrate more birthdays with the American Cancer Society during this year’s Great American Smokeout on Thursday, Nov. 19. If you or someone you love needs help quitting this year, here are 10 tips on how to break free from a smoking addiction.

  1. Don’t keep it a secret. Include your friends and family in your quitting process; they can offer much-needed support.
  2. You’re not alone. More and more people are trying to break free from cigarettes and there are lots of support options available. Many communities, employers, and health care organizations have free or low-cost counseling and support available to help you quit. Call your American Cancer Society at 1.800.227.2345 to find out what’s available in your area.
  3. Consider using medication to help you quit. There are prescriptions and over-the-counter medications that can help you deal with withdrawal symptoms or even help to reduce the urge to smoke. You’ll want to talk to your doctor first, but some medicine could help.quit-smoking-aisle52DOTcom
  4. Dump the memories. Clear the places where you usually smoke of anything that reminds you of cigarettes – like lighters, ashtrays, or matches. Also ask other smokers not to smoke around you, and clean your house and car thoroughly to remove the smell of cigarettes.
  5. Avoid places where smokers gather. Go to the movies or other places where smoking is not allowed.
  6. Stay calm and stay busy. You may feel some nervous energy but it can be countered by physical and mental activities. Take long strolls and deep breaths of fresh air, and find things to keep your hands busy, like crossword puzzles or yard work. There are a lot of leaves on the ground at this time of year.
  7. Talk to your doctor. Before you begin any plan for quitting smoking you should check with your doctor to see what might be the best approach for you. Remember, quitting smoking is very personal and there isn’t one perfect method.
  8. When the urge to smoke strikes, do something else. If you feel a craving for a cigarette coming on, take a deep breath, count to 10 and then do something else. Call a supportive friend. Do brief exercises such as push-ups, walking up a flight of stairs, or touching your toes. Anything that will take your mind off your cravings.
  9. One will hurt. Many people fall into the trap of thinking that if they only have one cigarette it’s okay. But even that one smoke can get you back in the habit of smoking full time. Keeping a supply of oral substitutes like carrots, apples, raisins, or gum handy can help.
  10. Water, water everywhere. Drink lots of fluids to help curb cravings. Water is the best for this, and you’ll want to pass up on coffee and alcohol if they trigger your desire to smoke.

Cigarette smoking is the major single cause of cancer mortality in the United States, and tobacco use is responsible for nearly 1 in 5 deaths each year in the U.S. Because cigarette smoking and tobacco use are acquired behaviors, smoking is the most preventable cause of death in our society.

Contact the American Cancer Society 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1.800.227.2345, or visit their website here.

 

Wyoming’s New ‘Sinking Fund’ Will Keep School Infrastructure Afloat

Area Education, Education, Hard News, Our Cities, , , , ,

Wyoming Public SchoolsOn election day, the Wyoming Public School District was hopeful the citizens of Wyoming would vote to pass the funding request. The request was for a sinking fund, a shorter, smaller stream of money that acts differently from a bond issue.

“It was very hard to get a read on the way the public felt. It was very quiet,” explained Superintendent Tom Reeder. “We tried to be as informative as possible over social media and school news letters.”

The sinking fund request was passed by a vote of 1,445 to 978 and won every precinct.

The new funding will raise over $400,000 per year with little, if any, increase to the Wyoming tax payers. The sinking fund will help pay for infrastructure updates until the next bond proposal between the 2021/22 and 2022/23 school year. By that time, the District’s millages will be down to zero. Much like paying off a house mortgage.

How is a sinking fund different from a bond issue? Well, for starters, a sinking fund is for a much shorter period of time. On top of the duration, a sinking fund provides a little bit of money at a time instead of it all upfront. With a sinking fund, no debt needs to be repaid because a smaller amount of money is being brought in to pay for numerous projects. With a bond issue, the millages passed off to the taxpayer pay off the debt for the large lump sum taken upfront.

Wyoming Junior HighOn the whole, sinking funds are more economical for smaller projects because there is no interest paid on the projects; you pay as you go.

Now that we’ve covered the jargon on the difference between a sinking fund and a bond, it’s time to talk about the real meat of what was voted on – where is the money going?

Quick answer, it’s going towards small projects that need repair on a schedule. Things like roofs, parking lots, and mechanical equipment.

Longer – more detailed – answer, it’s going towards safety and security, efficiency, and infrastructure tune-ups district wide. The breakdown is below.

Replace and Re-key Doors: Doors are rusted and multiple keys are needed in one building. Re-keying allows for a master-key allowing access to multiple school buildings.

Emergency Lighting: Emergency lighting systems are outdated and need to be upgraded for increased safety in the event of an emergency or loss of power.

Upgrade heating and cooling units: Current system runs at high output all the time.

Install High Efficiency Heating System: New web-based control unit updated system will help with energy savings by allowing the heating system to run at lower output during mild weather.

WyomingExterior Lights: Provide better nighttime lighting for after school events.

Remodel Student bathrooms: Replace bathroom fixtures with energy-efficient fixtures and use low maintenance materials to reduce cleaning times and extend useful life.

Replace or Repair Roofs: Building roofs are past their 20-year useful lives. Recent inspections indicate that future leaks are only a matter of time.

Parking Lots: Lots are in need of resurfacing. Parking lot capacity would be increased to ease congestion of drop-off and pick-up areas.

Superintendent Reeder was very thankful to the public and adamant that the funds were needed, “We are very thankful to the public and we will stay transparent with where the money is going. Our buildings are 50 years old. They may look nice on the outside, but issues are starting to present themselves and they need to be fixed.”

Explore the Reynold Weidenaar Retrospective, now through Jan. 17

Education, Local Entertainment, Local History, Our Cities, Upcoming Events,

weidenaar mackinaw bridgeIf you’ve not heard of Reynold Weidenaar, perhaps you can be forgiven, but if you miss this retrospective exhibition of the Grand Rapids native’s oil paintings, prints, and watercolors, you’re only cheating yourself.

Three local cultural organizations–Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), Calvin College, and Kendall College of Art and Design (KCAD)–have joined forces to orchestrate this extensive exhibition that celebrates the 100th anniversary of Weidenaar’s birth. Along with GRAM’s retrospective are exhibitions at KCAD at Ferris State University and Calvin College’s Center Art Gallery. KCAD provides an overview of the artist’s work in drawing and watercolor. Calvin’s exhibition investigates the artist’s working methods, including several states of individual prints.

The 100th birthday celebration began in spring of 2015 withreynold-henry-weidenaar-valley-of-wrath Through the Eyes of Weidenaar, an exhibition at the Grand Rapids Public Museum which focused on his self-styled role of community chronicler. Nationally recognized, Weidenaar (1915-1985) had a noteworthy career, and he is one of West Michigan’s most talented and renowned artists. He studied at the Kendall School of Design, Grand Rapids and the Kansas City Art Institute. He received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1944 and traveled through Mexico creating gorgeous images in mezzotint.

weidenaarWith roots in 20th-century American Regionalism–a movement dedicated to representing rural and small town life–Weidenaar’s work is timeless, depicting West Michigan through a historical context and singularly personal perspective. His deep familiarity with the region’s places and people allowed him to mine a wealth of subject matter.

Restlessly creative and ambitious, Weidenaar continually worked to hone his skills and master new artistic techniques. Known for his technical virtuosity as draftsman and printmaker, he became successful in the 1940s exhibiting and selling his etchings. He began creating mezzotint prints in the 1950s, even though the technique was not widely practiced at the time. Especially well received, his work in mezzotint fostered a resurgence of awareness and appreciation of this distinctive method of printmaking.

In 1954 he took up watercolor painting, and in only ten years, he had created 1,300 watercolors of West Michigan subjects–enchanting landscapes and industrial scenes that pulsed with life. After mastering etching, mezzotint, and watercolor, Weidenaar began to paint in oil and explored the processes of the Flemish and Dutch Old Masters.Weidenaar Cathedral-Repairs-Mexico-City-by-Reynold-Henry-Weidenaar

When scrutinizing Weidenaar’s work, take notice of the intricate detail with which he created his works. His works can be very dramatic, at times satirical–or eerie with a mystical quality–but they are always intriguing and never dull. There’s much more than meets the eye: Familiar West Michigan cityscapes and landscapes will be apparent, and you’ll want to get up close to appreciate the idiosyncratic and sometimes off-color (so to speak) sense of humor depicted in his work.

Don’t just take our word for it; experience it for yourself. Go forth, and discover the wonders of Weidenaar.

Experience Veteran History Firsthand on WKTV

Education, Veterans, ,

Veterans History ProjectTake a moment during Veterans Day to thank a Veteran for their service.

Veterans have stories to tell. Tales of bravery, friendship, family, and hardship experienced while on duty. The Veterans Oral History Project, in partnership with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project, gives our countries Veterans an opportunity to tell their stories throughout the year.

Interviews with those who served in the US Military from WWII to the present are filmed and later aired on WKTV. The interviews can be seen on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 8 p.m. Shows are also aired every other Saturday at noon. Currently over 1,500 stories have been told thanks to project director Dr. James Smither, WKTV, and the Veterans willing and able to tell share their experiences.

Make sure you thank a Veteran all year-long.

School Welcomes Families to Celebrate After-School Programs

Area Education, Education, Our Cities, , ,
First-grader Mia Porter smiles for a photo
First-grader Mia Porter smiles for a photo

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

The lights were on at the Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center and Spiderman and Batman were in the building.

The district’s after-school program, TEAM 21, recently welcomed families and students for a night of games, superhero-mask decorating and Halloween cookie munching during “Lights On After-School.”

About 7,500 after-school programs participated in the annual nationwide event. It was started in 2000 by the Washington D.C.-based nonprofit organization Afterschool Alliance, which promotes keeping the doors open after school to offer academic help and recreation for students.

Sixth-grader Jasmin Landero said TEAM 21 is a great place to stay busy after school
Sixth-grader Jasmin Landero said TEAM 21 is a great place to stay busy after school

Godfrey-Lee TEAM 21 coordinators put their own twist on the evening, inviting families by “Calling All Superheroes” to the event. Sixth-graders led games in the hallways for youngsters, some dressed in costumes. Families ate dinner provided by the school and took photos with their favorite caped crusaders.

“The whole point of the event is to showcase that we are here to help with the kids,” said Brittani Stickler, TEAM 21 site coordinator for the Godfrey-Lee ECC.

While the evening was focused on fun, TEAM 21 offers homework help and enrichment activities after school Monday through Thursday, plus summer programming. “We target at-risk kids and those who need the most academic help,” Stickler said. “It’s been a super help for parents.”

Team 21 is run through a partnership between the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department and Godfrey-Lee, Wyoming, Godwin Heights and Kelloggsville Public Schools, with 15 schools offering programs for students ranging from kindergarten to ninth grade.

Godfrey-Lee is a high-poverty district with a large percentage of English-language learners. Many parents work in the evening and aren’t able to provide homework help, district officials said.

Sixth-grader David Arellano poses with Godfrey-Lee Rebel mascot
Sixth-grader David Arellano poses with Godfrey-Lee Rebel mascot

Ramona Maleka Freeman came to the event with her five children, two of whom regularly attend TEAM 21. “I like the way they help out with homework and spend a lot of time loving and caring for the kids. I like that it’s a positive program and the kids aren’t out learning negative things.”

Sixth-grader Jasmin Landero spread orange frosting on a cookie. “TEAM 21, to me, is not just a school thing. We get school stuff done, but we really have fun.”

Need for After-school Programs by the Numbers

•    19.4 million kids would participate in an after-school program if one were available to them.
•    11.3 million kids are on their own in the hours after school.
•    23 million parents of school-age children work outside of the home full time.
•    An analysis of 68 after-school studies found that students participating in high-quality after-school programs went to school more, behaved better, received better grades and performed better on tests compared to non-participants.
•    A study of outcomes associated with participation in after-school programs found that students who regularly participate during elementary school showed a variety of gains, including narrowing the math achievement gap at grade five between high-income and low-income students; improving work habits and self-efficiency; and reducing absences.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

New Bond will help KPS Students Compete in a Global Economy

Area Education, Education, Our Cities, Politics, , ,

KPS School BusWhen voters initially voted down a $64.86 million bond proposal back in May (by only 353 votes), the Kentwood School District asked for feedback from the community and learned that voters did not understand all of the bond’s components. After clarifying the projects the bond would fund—building, security, and technology upgrades and improvements—the new bond was placed back on the November ballot and passed by a vote count of 3,125 to 2,108 on Nov. 3.

“Our community has considered this opportunity with a great deal of care and interest, and has responded in support of our students, families and the broader community as partners in supporting excellence in education,” said Michael Zoerhoff, Superintendent Kentwood Public Schools. “Kentwood has always been a district built on fiscal responsibility, demonstrating prudent management of public funds. We are committed to continue to exercise this same responsibility with the funds generated by this proposal.”

The district has about 8,800 students.

If you live in Kentwood and own a $100,000-dollar home, the bond will cost you about 72 cents per week (an increase from 3.5 mills to 4.25 mills). Here’s where your money will be spent to help students to compete in a global society:

Technology (25% of bond)Kentwood Public Schools Logo

  • New computers and devices to replace outdated technology.
  • Upgrades to the District’s network infrastructure and modernizations at each school location to support and serve more wireless technology.
  • Remodeled media centers with technology updates.
  • Flexible Collaboration Center spaces focusing on state-of-the-art technology and large group instruction throughout the District.

Safety and Security (27% of bond)

  • Updated building-wide communications systems.
  • Gradual replacement of aging school buses. The district currently has a fleet of 43 buses, but only 38 are operational.
  • Updated playgrounds to meet current safety standards.
  • Remodeled school entryways to provide a friendly lobby and limited access to students and classrooms.
  • Enhanced security measures in all schools, including remote-access cameras and ID monitoring.
  • Improved, safer pedestrian and vehicle traffic to and from the Kentwood facilities.
  • Upgrades to plumbing, mechanical, electrical and building systems to extend their useful life and improve operational efficiency.
  • Collaborative, multi-purpose learning centers to support 21st-century education practices.
  • Replacement of aged doors and windows to improve building efficiency.
  • Updated building finishes with new carpet, ceilings and furniture.
  • Improved and expanded parking lots and paved areas.
  • Renovated elementary school media centers, including new technology and furniture.

Operational Efficiency and Building Renovations (48% of bond)

  • Upgrades to plumbing, mechanical, electrical and building systems to extend their useful life and improve operational efficiency.
  • Replacement of aged doors and windows to improve building efficiency.
  • Updated building finishes with new carpet, ceilings and furniture.
  • Improved and expanded parking lots and paved areas.
  • Renovated elementary school media centers, including new technology and furniture.
  • Collaborative, multi-purpose learning centers to support 21st-century education practices.

“Kentwood School DistrictThe Kentwood Public Schools remains committed to providing an education of excellence to every child that we serve,” said Zoerhoff. “Each teacher and staff member at KPS seeks to partner with our families to ensure that positive relationships are developing within the school environment and that high expectations are reflected in the arts, athletics, and within each of our academic programs.”

Specific building project listings and renderings for each school are on display at on the KPS website.

More information can be found on the Facebook pages for Kentwood Public Schools and Kentwood Friends for Education.

Images courtesy of Kentwood Public Schools Facebook page

Should You Get Screened for Lung Cancer?

Community Health, Education, Upcoming Events, , ,

lung-cancerNovember is lung cancer awareness month, and now’s a good time to be honest and ask yourself some tough questions:

  1. Do you smoke, or did you quit smoking less than 15 years ago?
  2. Do you have at least a 30 pack-year history of smoking? To find your pack-year history, multiply the number of packs you smoke each day by the number of years you have smoked. For example, 1 pack a day x 30 years = 30 pack-years, 2 packs a day x 15 years = 30 pack-years
  3. Are you 55-80 years of age?

If you answer “yes” to these three questions, the American Cancer Society suggests talking with your doctor about lung cancer screening.

Lung cancer screening means getting a CT scan of the chest. A CT scan is a series of computerized x-rays that gives better views of an area within the body. If the screening results are a concern, you may have more tests or procedures to determine if you have cancer. This helps you get the best treatment. Contact your health insurance company to find out your coverage and any costs you would have in relation to a lung cancer screening test such as a CT scan.

As with any procedure, there are some risks. The scan involves a low dose of radiation, similar to a mammogram or 4cd3e89b1bac5dc01575afd9da74b751x-ray. Exposure to radiation, including x-rays and CT scans, can increase your risk of cancer in general, although this risk is low. Other risks could include the stress of having abnormalities detected and follow-up procedures associated with your CT scan, such as additional scans or biopsy.

You have a greater chance of having lung cancer if you smoke or used to smoke, have moderate or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema or chronic bronchitis), or if you have a parent, sibling, or child who has had lung cancer.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer

Not everyone who breathes radon will develop lung cancer. Risk is determined by such things as how much radon is in your home, or other indoor environment, the amount of time you spend in that environment, and whether you smoke or have ever smoked. Think about getting your home tested for radon.

Talk with your doctor about your risk for lung cancer and also the benefits and risks of lung cancer screening. The best way to prevent lung cancer is to not smoke. For more information, go to the Michigan Cancer Consortium website.

Source: Michigan Cancer Consortium

District Again Seeks Approval for $65 Million Security & Technology Bond

Area Education, Education, Hard News, Upcoming Events, , ,

Kentwood SchoolsBy: Erin Albanese – School News Network

Community member Jim Swoboda’s children had a great experience at Kentwood Public Schools. He said they benefited from the diversity of the student body and passionate teachers.

“Our kids got a great education here,” said Swoboda, whose children graduated from East Kentwood High School. He now chairs the Kentwood Friends of Education. “We want to make sure all the kids coming behind them have an equal or better opportunity than they did.”

So, Swoboda and other district parents and community are rallying to get word out on a $65 million bond request on the ballot Tuesday, Nov. 3. It is the district’s second attempt to pass the proposal to fund security, technology, new buses and facility upgrades.

After a similar proposal for the same amount narrowly failed in May with a vote of 4,407 to 4,055, parents rallied to try again. The district has also worked to better communicate details of the bond.

“We felt we owed it to those parents,” Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff said.

A community survey paid for by Kentwood Friends for Education showed support. “People overwhelmingly said, ‘put it back on,’ and that’s why we we’re back,” Swoboda said.

The survey sought to capture a cross-section of registered voters and parents to guide the district leadership’s decision to bring another bond proposal to the board, Zoerhoff said. It was mailed, emailed and posted on social media to solicit feedback from staff, parents and community members. More than 1,000 people responded.

Kentwood Public Schools BusThe proposal remains nearly the same as in May, although new athletic turf on the football and soccer fields has been removed from planned bond-funded projects.

The 30-year proposal would cost about 72 cents per week for the owner of a $100,000 home. The district recently refinanced existing debt, which reduced the 2014 millage to 3.5 mills. The proposed bond issue will raise the millage rate 0.75 mills to a total of 4.25 mills. This new rate is lower than the 4.6 mills that were levied in 2014.

If approved, bond projects would occur over the next 10 years. About 25 percent of bond funds are planned for technology; 27 percent toward safety and security and 48 percent toward improving operational efficiency, including building renovations.

A Breakdown of Projects

In the area of safety and security, bond projects would include:

•    Remodeled school entryways creating limited access to students and classrooms
•    Improved traffic-flow measures at buildings to create safer, more efficient environments for traveling to and from facilities
•    Updated building-wide communications systems
•    The gradual replacement of an aging school bus fleet
•    Playground upgrades to meet current safety guidelines

In the area of technology, projects would include:

•    New computers and devices, purchased gradually over 10 years, allowing the district to implement a long-term technology plan
•    Upgrades to network infrastructure and modernizations at each school location to support and serve more technology
•    Remodeling media centers into flexible “collaboration centers” throughout the district. The spaces would be outfitted for technology and used for large-group instruction

In the area of operational efficiency, including building renovations, projects would include:

•    Elementary media center renovations with new technology and furniture
•    Meadowlawn Elementary School renovations including the addition of a gymnasium to bring it up to the district-wide standard
•    A new secure community entrance for after-school and recreation programs (youth arts and athletics) at Valleywood Middle School
•    Locker room remodeling and upgrades at Pinewood and Valleywood middle schools for use by students and community.
•    Fine arts classrooms at East Kentwood High School would be renovated

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Cherry Health Hosting Free Open Enrollment Kickoff Event

Community Health, Education,

toddler2It’s time to sign up for, or renew, your health insurance! Open Enrollment for the Health Insurance Marketplace will begin on Sunday, Nov. 1. Cherry Health will host a FREE kickoff event on Sunday, Nov. 1 at Heart of the City Health Center (100 Cherry Street SE) for community members to help with enrollment or renewal.

Onsite enrollment specialists will be on hand to educate, answer questions and help individuals and families enroll in both the Health Insurance Marketplace and the Healthy Michigan Plan. In addition there will be information about services provided by Cherry Health, free prize drawings, refreshments, giveaways and more. All of this is completely free and open to the public.services

Individuals and families should bring the following information: Income documents (paycheck, W-2, tax return, social security award letter etc.), social security numbers and IDs for all applicants, and if applicable your username and passwords for the Marketplace or MiBridges account.

For more information, community members can contact Cherry Health via their dedicated toll-free number, 866.299.1339, or email AffordableCare@cherryhealth.com.

Watch this Movie, Please!

Area Education, Editorial, Education, Our Cities, , , ,
The film "Most Likely to Succeed" asks: Can our schools prepare today's students for the jobs of tomorrow?
The film “Most Likely to Succeed” asks: Can our schools prepare today’s students for the jobs of tomorrow?

By: Ron Koehler – School News Network

One of the enduring principles of comedy is juxtaposition.

Take, for example, this joke from actress Sara Silverman:

“When I was 14, I started dating my father’s best friend. It was weird.”
“But not as weird as my father having a best friend who was 14.”

So, too, is juxtaposition in the comedy of life.

On October 20, Kent ISD hosted a screening of the film “Most Likely to Succeed” at Celebration Cinema. It’s an engaging film that poses this question: Our schools were designed at the turn of the 20th Century by business and educational leaders to prepare workers for the mass production of products. Can these schools prepare today’s students for the jobs of tomorrow?

All in attendance agreed it was thought provoking. There was great dialogue about an education organized around rote memorization in a world of search engines, the critical thinking and problem solving skills required in today’s workplace, and the failings of an accountability system built on the standardized test.

Heady stuff, indeed. And the next morning, I find this in my email inbox:

LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Phil Pavlov, R-St. Clair Township, announced Wednesday that the Michigan Senate Education Committee will conduct a series of hearings on Michigan’s academically failing schools, beginning Wednesday, Nov. 4.

Juxtaposition. From dreaming about what education could be, what it should be, to what it is in a world where our schools are governed by students’ scores on standardized tests. Their performance on a single test, on a single day, is the determining factor in whether a school building, and typically a district, is considered a success, or a failure.

There are so many more factors to consider. All of the research shows children of poverty start kindergarten well behind children from middle-class suburbs because they’re exposed to fewer early learning opportunities, they’re more likely to suffer health and nutrition deficiencies, etc., etc.

standardized testIn the early grades, there are developmental issues and differences between genders. Boys are generally behind girls. Some boys really don’t have the biological building blocks in place to be proficient in reading at third grade. Few learn well by sitting quietly in rows reading books.

As the writers and producers of Most Likely to Succeed point out, grouping students by age and, later, by age and subject, are organizational tools, not educational tools. There is no evidence these organizational tools are anything more than an easy way for adults to manage large groups of students.

The research indicates all students are different, all develop in different ways and all would benefit from a system based on competency. A competency based system would make learning the most important factor in a student’s education. Some would master concepts faster, some slower, but none would be judged as failures because they were unable to master a concept by a certain age or a date marked on a calendar for standardized tests to be administered.

Forgive me for this overgeneralization, but mostly, our elected officials believe our current education system is expensive and our scores on standardized tests are too low. Virtually everything in education policy orbits around these two bits of information.

Please, don’t get me wrong. All of our elected officials are well intentioned people. I admire their public service. I’m all for efficiency. But most of the discussion surrounding education is focused on the wrong things.

What should we focus on? I’m not the expert. But let’s go back to juxtaposition.

Think of the excitement of four or five-year olds when they first go to school. And then, think of the dull and disinterested response you get when you ask a teenager what he or she learned in school today: “Nothing.”

Shouldn’t that be the focus of education reform? Shouldn’t we ask what happened to the love of learning?

Why do the majority of students say they’re bored every day in school? We should be looking for ways to fulfill the wisdom of William Butler Yeats, who famously said “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”

Let’s light a fire. Please watch Most Likely to Succeed. Please ask your legislators to watch it too. And then let’s have a conversation about how we can make our schools better.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Payoff: Simply Beautiful

Area Education, Education, , , ,
Marcia DeVos, center, orchestrated the recent beautification project
Marcia DeVos, center, orchestrated the recent beautification project

By: Adrian Hirsch – School News Network

School was out for the day, but students didn’t need to go far to get to their next project. On the West side of Godwin Heights High School, a variety of decorative plants and flowers were laid out in wait of the young green thumbs to put them in the ground.

“I just like to help the community, I love to plant stuff,” said student volunteer Vanessa Flores, who said she has a garden at home.

The beautification project was initiated by Marcia DeVos, a teacher in the Regional Emotionally Impaired program and a coordinator for Godwin’s Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports program (PBIS).

From left, Students Enida Jahaj, Juana De La Cruz, and Vanessa Flores
From left, Students Enida Jahaj, Juana De La Cruz, and Vanessa Flores

DeVos said the idea stemmed from the district’s recent improvements to security and building upgrades, made possible by a community-approved bond. “There hasn’t been money for anything but the essentials,” she said. “Beautifying an area of the school that has long needed it is part of our message of Godwin pride.”

Students delivered evidence of Godwin pride by getting their hands dirty on what was one of the last hot days of the season.

“I’m proud of how supportive Godwin Heights is with students and how positive and supportive everyone is with each other,” said student Felicia McCallum, while digging with her friends.

“It was so great to see our students take ownership of that project and put their time into it with no expectation of a reward other than helping our school look welcoming to the parents and community,” said DeVos after the event.

Arnell Scott, left, helps Katie Hoffman free a plant from its pot
Arnell Scott, left, helps Katie Hoffman free a plant from its pot

Once again, the Godwin Heights community stepped up with anonymous donations for plant purchases. Kyle Groenink, an intern at the Fredrick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, volunteered to develop a landscaping plan and Mill Creek Farm Perennial LLC in Comstock Park sold plants to the school at cost.

Science teacher Katie Hoffman said the project was “all about building school culture,” and ties into an initiative by Principal Chad Conklin and other staff members to improve the school climate and involve students within the school community. “(DeVos) is a very hard worker, and probably doesn’t get enough credit for what she does,” added Hoffman about the project’s leader.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Special Family Fun Fest at the DeltaPlex

Community Health, Education, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, Senior Living, Volunteers, , , ,

special needs face painting2Children with special needs create special families. Five years ago, some of those family members got together to create the Family Hope Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting not only their own children, but all special families. They’ve hit on a sure thing: the Special Families Fun Fest, returning for its 4th year at the DeltaPlex Arena on Saturday, October 17 from 10am-4pm. Lara Kitts is in charge of the event. “Some of us who have special needs family members know how hard it is to get the family out the door together. This is fun and there’s nothing else like it.”

Admission $5 per person, which includes 10 carnival game tickets (ages 2 and under free!). Tickets are available here. special needs animal fun

Kitts says the Fun Fest provides a wide variety of events set up to provide physically and emotionally safe environments without stress, including carnival games, crafts, a petting zoo and a number of other activities—all without waiting in line. Even better, no one has to stay behind to take care of the special needs family member. “We have amenities such as a sensory room to provide family support if a child is overstimulated,” says Kitts. “We have volunteers who cover every exit to make sure a child doesn’t dart away. We’ve pretty much thought of everything.”

special needs boyThose concerned that the Special Families Fun Fest may not have anticipated their particular need are invited to call in advance at 616-780-3839. Visit the Family Hope Foundation to learn more about this very special organization. For more information about Fun Fest activities, check out the event.  If you would like to volunteer, Kitts says she would be pleased to find you a special role to fill at the event, sure to fill a special place in your heart.

Surprise! Good Vision and Learning are Linked

Education, Local Business, Local Faces, , , , ,
School News Network Vision Test
Kent County Health Department vision and hearing technician Denise Knight asks Murray Lake Elementary kindergartener Marley Beauchamp what the dots on a page look like to her.

By: Paul R. Kopenkoskey, Charles Honey, Erin Albanese and Linda Odette – Schools News Network

Marley Beauchamp slips on a pair of 3-D glasses, but it’s not because she plans to munch popcorn while watching a popular animated film.

Instead, Kent County Health Department vision and hearing technician Denise Knight holds in front of the Murray Lake Elementary kindergartener a book that shows a page with a seemingly random array of dots printed on it. Knight asks Marley what she sees, but she is hesitant to answer. Knight then asks if she sees a butterfly. Can she touch the wings on the page? Marley shakes her head “no.”

Known as the Butterfly Stereo Activity Test, this is one of a battery of eyesight evaluations the health department conducts. The screening does not diagnose a potential vision problem, but may refer a student to an eye-care professional for further examination.

“For her to pass the test, she has to see a butterfly,” Knight said. “It pops out as a 3-D image.”

Michigan law requires hearing and vision screening prior to admission to kindergarten. Once a child is in school, free screenings continue on a regular basis, specifically between ages 3 and 5, and then first, third, fifth, seventh and ninth grades. Screenings are provided at no cost to families, and are conducted by a local health department, usually in school.

Seeing is Learning

Whether it’s learning how to read or do fractions, good vision and learning are connected. Experts say around 80 percent of what a student learns in school is from information presented visually.

Students who can’t see properly don’t have a learning disability, but it can be a sign of possible eye health and refractive problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness or color blindness, among others. And that can make it tough to understand and remember what was taught.

Those are key reasons why the Kent County Health Department’s vision program, which provides screenings in all schools in Kent County, checks for several things: visual acuity, eye muscle function, nearsightedness, farsightedness and symptoms of other possible eye problems.

In Kent County, of the 52,427 children screened during the 2014-15 school year, 4,620 were referred to an eye-care provider.

Of those, 2,202 students did go to an eye-care provider for an evaluation and treatment, if needed, said Chris Buczek, public health supervisor for KCHD’s hearing and vision screening programs.

Parents may also schedule to have their children screened by appointment at the KCHD, 700 Fuller Ave. NE. They usually choose this option if:

  • They or school staff have a concern and the student was absent when the KCHD was at the school
  •  The family is new to the area
  • The child will be entering kindergarten and was not in a preschool or Head Start, where they would have been screened
  • The student was unable to follow the directions for a successful eye screen when a KCHD technician was at the school

“Often, parents may not even be aware we have been there at the school unless the child does not pass,” Buczek said. “We are required to send letters to parents of all students who do not pass. Some schools will publish in their newsletter that we are coming.”

School News Network Vision 2
Vision screenings are essential, experts say, because students may not be aware they can’t see correctly, which can snowball into other problems.

Vision screenings are essential because students may not be aware they can’t correctly see, which can snowball into other problems.

“It is not uncommon for students to have some behavior issues, such as lack of concentration or listening, if they cannot see,” Buczek said. “And students may be able to see better with one eye than the other. This could be amblyopia, where one eye does the work of both, and the ‘not-as-good eye’ is in danger of shutting off. This is the main concern for preschool-aged children, since if it is caught early, treatment can be done to diminish the issue.”

Steve Jepson, president and chief operating officer of Michigan-based Rx Optical, says increased screen time is also being researched for long-term effects on the eyes.

“Many believe that this damage is similar to an accelerated aging of the retina, which is irreversible and has the potential to significantly compromise vision at much younger ages,” he said.

Districts, Professionals Lend a Hand

Sometimes it’s a financial struggle for parents to have their children checked out by an eye-care professional or to pay for glasses. In those cases, school districts can often help bridge the gap.

Forest Hills Public Schools participates in a program called VSP Sight for Students, which covers the cost of an eye exam and glasses for those with no insurance who can’t afford the services and meet specific income guidelines.

If students at Byron Center Public Schools need glasses and parents can’t afford them, they’re referred to BC Ministries. The local group assists families with paying for a more thorough examination and, if needed, glasses through one of the local optometrists.

The Godfrey-Lee district has Cherry Street Health Services come to the schools for a period of time during the school year. The independent nonprofit only assesses students whose parents have completed a form for services through Cherry Street, regardless of whether they have had glasses in the past.

Cherry Street will test students for vision, refer to them to a specialist if needed and furnish glasses for those who need them or need their current prescription updated. They also test for glaucoma, while the district’s nurse, Rebecca Quigley, also inquires about other diseases.

Students age 10 and older can also be seen any time during the school year by appointment in any of the district’s school-based health centers, which are housed at Ottawa Hills High School, Union High School and City High School, as well as Burton Elementary/Middle School. Grand Rapids Public Schools nurses and health department staff work to help families receive follow-up care for students who fail their screenings. Some of GRPS’ schools take part in the See to Succeed Program, provided through Cherry Health Services, which provides dilated eye exams, vision screenings and glasses, if required.

“Parents are notified by their individual school buildings of upcoming screenings via school newsletters and other forms of communication,” said Laura Martzke, GRPS nursing supervisor.

Kelloggsville participates in Cents for Kids, which is funded entirely by the district’s employees through payroll deduction or one-time donation, said Tammy Savage, director of instruction.

Local Businesses Step Up

Signs may need glassesDr. Troy LeBaron, owner of Professional Eyecare of West Michigan in Kentwood, has provided free eye exams, frames and lenses to students who are referred by Kent School Services Network, a Kent ISD effort that brings health and human services directly into schools.

Last year, LeBaron’s help amounted to at least $25,000 in exam costs and materials, including repairs or replacement of broken or damaged glasses, he said.

“Over the past few years we have roughly seen around 400 students, and that feels really good,” he said.

LeBaron sets aside time to serve students who can’t afford glasses, as identified by KSSN coordinators. He fits in emergency appointments as well. Students must be referred through school.

“My reward is helping these students become productive members of our community and the many thank-you cards that we have received,” LeBaron said.

He’s expanded his services, which started with low-income students in Kentwood two years ago, to other districts that notify him about a student. He said more people have learned the importance of annual vision and heath exams as a result.

“Teachers are becoming very good at detecting vision-related learning disorders,” he said.

Sparta Area Schools works in tandem with the health department, the Sparta Lions Club and a local optometrist. Vision screenings are done first by the KCHD, usually in the fall at the district’s school. If it’s determined a student needs glasses, they are referred to Sparta-based optometrist Dr. David Harkema.

If parents have financial challenges, registered nurse Amy Roelse coordinates with the Lions Club to pay for the cost of glasses.

“We don’t want finances to be an issue for students,” Roelse said. “If they do not have insurance to cover glasses and can’t afford glasses, I take care of that whole process. I work with Dr. Harkema and the Lion’s Club to get approval for the glasses. The Lions Club picks up the bill, and the organization has never told me ‘no’ in 15 years.”

Connect

To schedule a hearing or vision screening call the Kent County Health Department at (616) 632-7047, or click here.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Grand Valley State University hosts Secretary of State Mobile Office

Education, How-To's, Politics, Upcoming Events, , , ,

Grand Valley State UniversitySecretary of State Ruth Johnson announced today that the Mobile Office is offering voter registration and other services during a stop at Grand Valley State University in Allendale on Wednesday, Oct. 14 and Thursday, Oct. 15.

“College students often have questions about where to register to vote or how to get an absentee ballot,” Johnson said. “For these reasons I encourage students to stop by the Mobile Office while it’s on campus. In addition, they, as well as faculty, staff and members of the public, are welcome to come by to take care of any business they may have with the Secretary of State’s office.”

The Mobile Office will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. near the Translink statue by the Arboretum, 1 W. Campus Drive, Allendale.

Mobile Voter Trailer“It’s important that we bring the Mobile Secretary of State Office to campus because it gives more students access to reliable, convenient voter registration information,” said Maddie Cleghorn, president of the GVSU Student Senate. “Students are much more likely to engage in the democratic process if the resource is on campus, because it eliminates the step of actually driving to an office. With 2016 coming up as such an important election year, I think it is our responsibility to make sure students have access to the tools that will help them become engaged, informed voters.”

The Mobile Office is a full-service office and visitors can take care of other Secretary of State business at this event, including renewing driver’s licenses, getting instant titles or joining the Michigan Organ Donor Registry.

Don’t forget to visit the online Michigan Voter Information Center, a single, comprehensive source designed for voter convenience at www.Michigan.gov/vote . The site contains sample ballots, as well as information on absentee ballots, polling locations, voting systems and candidates. A mobile version is also available.

GWCRA Encourages ‘Letters of Approach’ from Wyoming Nonprofits

Education, Non-Profits, Our Cities, , ,

Screen Shot 2015-09-30 at 4.13.25 PMGreat news for Wyoming, Michigan-based nonprofits! The Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance (GWCRA) now awards grants several times a year, up from just once annually. And, it is much easier to apply. Gone is the lengthy, very detailed application.

The new application process now requires an initial ‘letter of approach,’ which may be submitted at any time. The letter may not exceed two pages, must include a description of the project, affirm the purpose/need addressed, identify a target population, and indicate the anticipated amount of the request.

GRWCRA’s Board of Directors will review letters on a timely basis and invite those organizations it wishes to consider funding to complete a full application. Letters of approach are only accepted via email to the attention of Rebecca Rynbrandt, Board Secretary at rynbranb@wyomingmi.gov.

The Board reserves the right to seek applications specific to any area of interest and/or target funding to specific initiatives at any given time. Types of support include equipment, seed money/program development and operating support. Grant amounts typically range from $500 to $3,000. Review the GWCRA’s grant history here.

If your organization is invited to submit a full application, it will be due two weeks from the date of invitation.

The GWCRA strives to support nonprofit organizations and grassroots charitable causes that improve the fabric of the community. Since 2011, the organization has awarded over $40,000 to area schools, nonprofits, neighborhood associations and grassroots organizations in support of educational programs, community projects, disaster response, scholarships and more. All of the donations received or fundraised by the GWCRA are awarded back into the community.

GWCRA is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the greater Wyoming community. The Alliance is established to provide a charitable outlet for citizens and businesses eager to make a sustainable and immediate impact to the very fabric of the community.

Artwork by Andy Warhol

Immunization waivers appear to drop after new state guidelines

Area Education, Community Health, Education, Politics, ,

immunization bABYMichigan parents who wish to refuse immunization for their children can still do so, but the process got tougher this year. In the past, a waiver could be issued by a school secretary or a day care provider. But that led to a growing number of children who were not being vaccinated. Last year’s outbreak of whooping cough among children in Traverse City led to  school closings. This year is different.

Any parent or guardian who wishes to prevent their child from receiving required shots before entering school must schedule a waiver request appointment with their local county health department. Last year, the Kent County Health Department received nearly 1400 waiver notices  from schools and day care centers. This year by comparison,  says Immunization Program Supervisor Mary Wisinski, only 800 waiver appointments were scheduled. But despite fewer numbers,  the new law made a “big impact” on her office.

The waiver appointment lasts about 15 minutes to allow nurses to talk to parents or guardians about vaccines and the diseases they are intended to prevent. “And some of those people were very unhappy to be coming to the Kent County Health Department,” says Wisinksi. “Our 20 nurses really stepped up to the plate to handle the increased numbers.”

At the end of the session the parent or guardian must sign a form that states they understand the risk their child and others could face without vaccination. Wisinski says some parents ripped up the form rather than sign it. “The Center for Disease Control gave us training on how to conduct an immunization waiver appointment. It was a huge adjustment, but we think we changed some parents’ minds.” She noted that many parents are simply unaware of the science behind vaccinations. “We give them a handout on where to find information so they can access real research,” says Wisinksi.

immunizationParents who wish to avoid multiple doses of vaccine administered to the child all at once may elect to stretch out the vaccination process. “It may be a bit more painful for the child, but it makes the parent feel better,” says Wisinki.

After the waiver appointment concludes, parents take a waiver certificate back to their local school or day care center to get their child admitted. The final total of immunization waivers won’t be known until after official numbers are reported. Totals from child care centers is due as of October 1, but public schools do not report the numbers of waivers they issued until November 1. Wisinski estimates that over all, the numbers of people requesting waivers amounts to somewhere between 2% to 4% statewide.

To find out how many waivers are granted by Michigan school districts, check out the link below:

http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mdch/KIND_2014_Final_For_Website_483300_7.pdf

Wyoming, Mich. ArtPrize Artist Explores Interpretation of Structures

Education, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Cities, , , ,
035871-000002
Karin Nelson’s 2015 ArtPrize Entry, ‘Red Awnings, McKay Tower’

Full-time artist, Karin Nelson, paints in acrylics. For the last couple of years, Nelson’s self-taught path has steered her to explore the interpretation of structures. It’s an addiction, she said.

Whether it’s stately city buildings or aged and weathered barns, Nelson is drawn to the masculine lines of manmade landmarks, which symbolize strength and protection. Her 2015 ArtPrize entry, ‘Red Awnings, McKay Tower,’ may be seen at the Women’s City Club, 254 East Fulton.

“This piece began with a wash of burnt umber, which I purposely allowed to show through in various areas, depicting the golden effects of sunlight,” Nelson said. “The contrasting edge where the shaded side of the building meets the sunlit side of the building is an oft-repeated theme in my paintings of both urban and rural structures.”

The acrylic-on-gallery-wrapped-canvas painting measures 40″H x 30″W.

Over 200 of Nelson’s paintings reside in public, corporate and private collections. She has received multiple awards, been accepted into many juried exhibitions, and has had multiple appearances on television, radio and press. She won Tulip Time’s 2014 Poster Contest. The owner of Lake Effect Gallery, Holland, Mich. described her winning piece, ‘Resilience,’ as “quite a departure from the posters of the past – very dramatic, no bright rainbow colors.”

Screen Shot 2015-10-01 at 11.38.47 PMNelson lives in Wyoming, Mich. with her husband of 38 years. They have three grown children, a son-in-law and two granddaughters.

See more of her work here. Nelson welcomes visitors to her home gallery/studio by appointment. Call 616.723.6600.

WKTV partners with SCA for Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition

Education, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, , , ,

Screen Shot 2015-09-30 at 1.05.24 PMCrave a sliver of the limelight? If you’re a Michigan filmmaker, here’s your chance to win big and have your film aired on Television.

Deadline to enter is October 16.

For the first time, Wyoming Kentwood Community Television and Media (WKTV) is teaming with the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (SCA), at this year’s Third Annual Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition. Professional and student filmmakers are invited to compete for $2,500 in cash prizes for their short films.

Films must be five minutes or less (including creditSCA-Logo-news and fade time) and each film must have a Michigan ‘flavor’ (made in Michigan, filmmaker from Michigan, Michigan mentioned in the script, etc.).

“This is an exciting new partnership for Saugatuck Shorts,” said Kristin Armstrong, Executive Director of the SCA. “WKTV’s mission is to educate the community about how to create video content; through Saugatuck Shorts we are providing the station with an exciting outlet to highlight Michigan video. We couldn’t be happier to work alongside WKTScreen Shot 2015-09-30 at 2.39.32 PMV’s talented professionals and volunteers.”

 

 

 

For individuals entering the competition, another benefit of the WKTV partnership is the chance to be featured on the station. WKTV will broadcast the top ten juried films after they’re announced in late October.

“We thought this would be a great way to celebrate making the top ten,” said WKTV Executive Director, Tom Norton. “We’re giving those ten people just another sliver of limelight to get them excited for the live audience screening on Saugatuck Shorts’ night.”

Arts_Partners_LogosIn addition, there will be a live broadcast of the November 7 event on WKTV. For those living in Wyoming, Kentwood, or Gaines Township, the station’s programming is on Channel 25.

Student submissions (high school students and younger) are free, and adults (college and up) are $15.00 per entry. Video projects by schools, clubs, and religious organizations are eligible to enter. Registration for Saugatuck Shorts has been extended to October 16 and can be completed online.

Registration information and questions regarding Saugatuck Shorts can be found here or by calling 269.857.2399.

WKTV, wWMFVA-Logo-5x5hich celebrated 40 years in 2014, is one of the oldest community television stations in the country still in operation. The station is located at 5261 Clyde Park Ave. in Wyoming, Mich.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts, located at 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a more vibrant lakeshore community in West Michigan and beyond. For more information about the SCA and upcoming events, visit SCA’s website or call 269.857.2399.

Award-winning Production Designer to speak on ‘The Art of Film Production Design’ at Calvin College

Education, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , , , , , , ,

jeannine_oppewall_destaqueOn October 6 and 7, local film aficionados will have the opportunity to meet a motion picture industry great: Jeannine Oppewall, a highly respected production designer, art director and Calvin College alum, will share her ideas and experiences as a motion picture production designer during a Q&A after the screening of Catch Me If You Can at Celebration! Cinema North on October 6.

The following evening, Oppewall will present ‘Design and Ideas in the Film Industry’ at Calvin College. Both events are free and comprise the Loeks Inaugural Lecture in Film & Media, co-produced by Calvin College and Celebration! Cinema. RSVPs are required for the film screening. (Go here.)

About Jeannine Oppewall:
Professional on set, modest in her personal life, and an engaging conversationalist, Oppewall makes magic by turning a director’s vision (or lack thereof) into a coherent whole. Meticulous attention to detail is just one of her hallmarks. She has received numerous accolades, including the Camerimage Award to Production Designer with Unique Visual Sensitivity in 2014. Photo credit: Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Simply stated, Oppewall is responsible “for everything an actor walks in front of, sits on, drives through or picks up.” In addition, each item must be historically accurate, right down to the color and texture. She has worked on more than 30 movies in such roles as production designer, set decorator and set designer.

Depending on the project, Oppewall may or may not receive any overall direction. To illustrate the enormity of the job, each project may take up to nine months of her life, working 14-hour days.

“A large number of directors don’t have a vision,” she said. “Some are visual, some are verbal and some are not interested as long as I get the job done.”

For exJeannine_Oppewallample, on Bridges of Madison County, Clint Eastwood was very hands off. On Tender Mercies, Oppewall received only five or six specifications on production design from director Bruce Beresford.

“It depends on the individual,” she said.

Overall, to succeed in her field, designs must be clean, neat and simple. For Oppewall, this is not a problem; design is in her genes.

“I came from family of designers and tried to intellectualize my interest in art, theater and culture,” she said. “I wanted to be the family intellectual, but the genes won out.”

In an industry dominated by high-powered males, Oppewall credits her years as editor of Chimes, the Calvin College student newspaper, for toughening her up; working with the big boys in Hollywood doesn’t intimidate her one iota.

“I was young and stupid and chaotic and idea-driven,” said Oppewall of her tenure at Chimes. “I was full of righteousness. But I learned how to assert myself and stand up for myself. I gave as good as I got, and I learned how to deal with males.”

And she does not cry. Ever.

“I get angry, but I do not cry,” Oppewall says. “I don’t know how to do it.”

On rare occasions, however, she may be rendered speechless. In her twenties, she worked for iconic American designer Charles Eames. She had lucked into the job by first touring the Eames studio and then asking a secretary if there were any positions open. Serendipity. There was.

“They needed someone to curate the slide library, black-and-white negatives and photos, and do reading and research for the National Council of Arts,” Oppewall said. IMG_0160

Another aspect of the job concerned film post-production. She knew she could handle everything but film post-production. She didn’t let that stop her.

“I made a few phone calls and contacted someone I knew who was knowledgeable about film post-production,” said Oppewall. “He told me to meet him at the Technicolor plant. ‘I will show you what your job is,’ he told me. ‘If you know your job, it will make my job easier.’”

Much later, during a conversation with Eames, “out of nowhere, he broke out singing, ‘Jeannine, My Queen of Lilac Time,’ the same way my mother did when I was a young girl,” said Oppewall. “I was flummoxed.”

She has this advice for newcomers to the film industry: “In Hollywood, you can find out everything about anyone,” she said. “All it takes is two well-placed phone calls, and you will know everything about everybody, if you know just whom to call. Find two people who like you and want to help you. That is how you begin.”

About the film:
detailStarring Leonardo DiCaprio, Catch Me If You Can is based on the true story of Frank Abagnale, Jr., who worked as a doctor, a lawyer, and as a co-pilot for a major airline—all before his 18th birthday.

Abagnale (Leonardo DiCaprio) was a master of deception and also a brilliant forger, whose skill gave him his first real claim to fame: At the age of 17, Abagnale became the most successful bank robber in the history of the U.S. FBI Agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks) makes it his prime mission to capture Frank and bring him to justice, but Frank is always one step ahead of him.

WHEN: October 6 at 7 p.m. WHERE: Celebration! Cinema North. Click here to RSVP.

About the lecture:
On October 7 at 7:30 p.m., Jeannine Oppewall will present ‘Design and Ideas in the Film Industry.’ Using illustrations and anecdotes, Oppewall will explain how she expresses color, shape, texture, location, and construction on a project.

“It’s something I do by instinct, and most people have no idea what I do,” said Oppewall.

The event is free and open to the public. WHERE: Covenant Fine Arts Center Recital Hall, Calvin College.

International Exchange Students Enrich High School Culture

Area Education, Education, , ,
Chinese Students Zheng "Kelly" Haohua and Guo "James" Kaixiang discuss instruments with Band Director Jane Detweiler
Chinese Students Zheng “Kelly” Haohua and Guo “James” Kaixiang discuss instruments with Band Director Jane Detweiler

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

Chinese students Zheng “Kelly” Haohua and Guo “James” Kaixiang chatted with Band Director Jane Detweiler about playing instruments in the Wyoming High School band. Brazilian student Gabriel Lopez Alves quickly alternated his arms in a fast up-and-down motion using battle ropes in gym class, and Thai student Noparrat (Mint) Likhithattaslip and German student Veronika Rieks settled into their seats in English class.

It was a typical day at Wyoming High School. But this school year, the already diverse student body has gotten even more so thanks to new agreements with international student-exchange agencies. Thirteen students from 10 countries recently arrived to attend Wyoming High School for up to two years.

Five students from Guangzhou, China, are attending through the Weiming Education Group. Eight others come from Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Spain, Germany and Turkey, coordinated through Educatius International and other study abroad companies.

Several plan to attend college courses next school year through the Wyoming Middle College, a dual-enrollment program with Grand Rapids Community College.

Brazilian student Gabriel Lopez Alves experiences physical education in America
Brazilian student Gabriel Lopez Alves experiences physical education in America

“I want to learn English really well,” said Chinese student Xie “Niko” Wei, from China, who is interested in economics and business. “I hope I can graduate this year. I want to enjoy every second in America. I want to learn all about the culture of Americans and how this country works. As we know, America is the strongest country in the world. There are a lot of different things we can learn.”

Spanish student Lucia Oliveros-Rodrigues said she’s come to develop her language skills and learn about America.

“I came here because I wanted to change my life and improve my English,” she said. “I want to learn six different languages.”

Why Wyoming is a Perfect Fit

Weiming Education Group coordinators approached Wyoming administrators about hosting Chinese students because of Wyoming High School’s diverse student body and strong English Language Learner support system, said Superintendent Tom Reeder. The student body already represents 20 different birth countries with a large EL population. Flags from every country line a hallway by the main office.

Standing out because of one’s nationality just doesn’t happen at Wyoming, said Superintendent Tom Reeder.

“We thought, ‘Why not bring even more diversity?'” Reeder said. It is the first time in several years that Wyoming has enrolled international exchange students.

Weiming has partnerships with several Michigan high schools including East Kentwood, Rockford, Traverse City, Byron High School in Byron Area Schools, Oxford High School in Oxford Community Schools, and Brother Rice High School in Bloomfield Hills Schools.

Nopparet "Mint" Likhithattaslip, from Thailand, exchanges phone numbers with Veronika Rieks, from Germany
Nopparet “Mint” Likhithattaslip, from Thailand, exchanges phone numbers with Veronika Rieks, from Germany

“The exchange students are fitting in real well,” said Dean of Students Jesus Hernandez, who is helping coordinate the program. “They will need support in the building, and the staff stepped up and want to help.”

The district receives $10,000 per student from Weiming Education Group and $4,000 per Educatius student, in addition to state per-pupil aid, Reeder said.

All in the Family

The students are living with local host families, who are introducing them to culture through food, travel and customs. Senior Vanessa Cage’s family is hosting Chinese student Zhu “Mike” Zicheng. Since his arrival, they’ve gone to a water park, shopping and on other excursions. Other students have visited the lakeshore, taken bike rides and gone camping with host families.

“It’s really fun. Mike’s really funny,” Vanessa said. “He taught us a lot of Chinese words. I know my name in Chinese.”

As a student, Vanessa sees the international program as a positive.

“I think it’s better for the whole school,” she said. “I’ve gone to four different schools and they weren’t diverse. That’s why I love this school. Everybody’s nice here. I haven’t met anyone who puts people out for what they are.”

Hernandez and Reeder said they are hopeful the program will expand over the next few years.

“It’s that whole piece of understanding each other, understanding people from different parts of the world who our kids can gain knowledge from. I think it’s part of the Wyoming dream to see this expand. Absolutely,” Hernandez said.

Connect

Weiming Education Group
Educatius
SNN story on Rockford Exchange Students
SNN stories on Weiming
Chinese Students in Kentwood and Rockford: So Far, So Good

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Meet the Voices Behind the Audiobooks at the Grand Rapids Public Library

Education, Local Entertainment, Recreation, , , ,

Grand Rapids Public LibraryThree familiar voices will share their experiences making audiobooks at the Grand Rapids Public Library on Wednesday September 30. Audiobook superstars Kate Rudd, Tanya Eby and Amy McFadden have together narrated over 800 books. They will read from their most popular works and give a behind the scene look at the audiobook industry.

Kate Rudd narrated the massive hit and Odessey and Audie-award winning “The Fault in Our Stars,” by John Green. She is a multiple Audie award finalist and recipient of Audiofile Magazine Earphone awards. Kate has narrated over 250 titles over a variety of genres.

Tanya Eby is the voice of the Rizzoli and Isles series by Tess Gerritsen. She’s recorded over 200 audiobooks, including romance series for Lisa Kleypas, Susan Mallery, Elizabeth Reyes, and Sheryl Woods. She is an Earphone winner and has been nominated for an Audie award.

Amy McFadden is known for her comedic timing and was nominated for an Audie for “Amy Falls Down.” She has narrated over 150 titles in many different genres, with a focus on comedic fiction, romances, and young adult fiction. Amy has been praised for her character work, and finding the emotional truth in comedy.

Voices Behind the Books will be held from 7:00 – 8:30 pm on Wednesday, September 30, 2015 in the Ryerson Auditorium at the Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library St. NE. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 616-988-5400 or visit our website at www.grpl.org. The Grand Rapids Public Library connects people to the transforming power of knowledge.

Calling All Colors Looking for Volunteers

Area Education, Education, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , ,

Caling All ColorsAre you passionate about promoting racial equity? This is your chance to make a difference in the life of a student!

Calling All Colors has an urgent need for volunteers to facilitate a small group dialogue at our upcoming middle and high school conferences. It’s fun! It’s easy! It’s rewarding!

Volunteers are provided with all dialogue materials and may be paired with a co-facilitator if preferred. Just 2.5 hours of your time will have a lifetime impact on a middle or high school student.

Invite your friends, family and co-workers to get involved!

Calling All Colors fosters inclusive school communities through a year-long program that features two conferences, creates a safe place to talk about race, and provide tools for increasing positive racial impacts for middle and high school students.

Calling All ColorsVolunteers are needed at the following fall conferences from 9 – 11:30 a.m.:

  • Lakeshore middle school conference – Monday, October 5, Hope College, Holland
  • Lakeshore high school conference – Tuesday, October 6, Hope College, Holland
  • Kent County high school conference – Tuesday, October 20, Aquinas College, Grand Rapids

Volunteers are welcome to assist at one or more conferences.

To better prepare for the small group dialogue, volunteers are encouraged to attend a training session. Alternative training is available if you are unable to attend a training session.

  • Monday, September 28, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Hope College, Holland
  • Wednesday, October 14, 5;30 – 6:30 p.m., Aquinas College, Grand Rapids

Click here to sign up to volunteer or email program director Sarah Salguera at program@ethnicdiversity.org, or call 616.846.9074.

Teachers Share Expertise to Improve Learning, Their Own Teaching

Area Education, Education, Local Faces, Our Cities, , , , ,
Spanish teacher Sara Collins and counselor Jennifer Bailey have a little fun while learning (Courtesy of SNN)
Spanish teacher Sara Collins and counselor Jennifer Bailey have a little fun while learning (Courtesy of SNN)

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

Crestwood Middle School psychologist Kathy Lennon was feeling surly. She was not about to listen to social worker Cathy DeHaan lead a session at the EKConference 2015.

Lennon sat at her desk and picked loudly at the cardboard on her coffee cup. “How are you doing?” DeHaan asked as she approached Lennon to see what the problem was.

“Fine!” Lennon said.

“It looks like maybe you’re stressed out,” DeHaan said.

“It looks like maybe you’re stressed out, and you’ve got a class to teach so you might as well teach it!” answered Lennon.

The professionals were reenacting how a student escalates into defensiveness, and how best to respond to their behavior in the workshop titled, “Mental Health Issues in School and Verbal De-Escalation.” It focused on how a student’s mental health impacts success in school, touching on depression, anxiety, marijuana use and related behaviors.

Teachers match gender and sexual orientation terms to their definitions during the workshops, "Understanding and Supporting LGBTQ Students" (Courtesy of SNN)
Teachers match gender and sexual orientation terms to their definitions during the workshops, “Understanding and Supporting LGBTQ Students” (Courtesy of SNN)

Playing to their Strengths

The EKConference allowed DeHaan to share her knowledge with other East Kentwood High School and Crestwood Middle School teachers. Educators chose from 74 workshops spread over five sessions.

Co-created last year by teachers and academic coaches Luke Wilcox and Tracey Kooy, the purpose of the conference is for staff members to tap into one another’s knowledge. Sharing expertise ultimately leads to better teaching, they said, and educators are carrying what they learn into the classroom.

“It’s great for the teachers because we are learning from each other and we are able to hear from different areas of specialty,” Lennon said. “There are so many different subjects to hear about.”

Throughout the day, educators covered topics on technology, art, history, writing, leadership, special education, reading, test preparation, speech, fundraising, math, science, teaching, English-language learners and new teaching approaches.

Counselor Jennifer Bailey shakes a pop bottle, symbolizing growing stress which leads to an explosion during a workshop on mental health
Counselor Jennifer Bailey shakes a pop bottle, symbolizing growing stress which leads to an explosion during a workshop on mental health (Courtest of SNN)

Workshops were as diverse as exploring ways to use GoFit heart sensors in physical education, and how teenagers use American music and pop culture to establish voice, identity, craft and civic responsibility.

The goal is to give teachers a place where they can easily collaborate, follow up and feel comfortable doing so, said Kooy, an English teacher who has been involved in a research project with the University of Toronto for three years based on professional development needs. Traditional professional development sessions are led by visitors on a one-time basis.

“When teachers can choose their learning, they are more invested,” Kooy said. It’s not everyone learning the same thing, because that marginalizes learning and it doesn’t allow us to seek out where we have a weakness. If we can visit sessions where we feel we can learn the most, it’s empowering.”

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!